Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment Lower Trou du Nord River (Caracol Industrial Park)

October 16, 2017 | Autor: Greg Cronin | Categoria: Marine Conservation, Watershed Management, Ecological Risk Assessment
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Fondation pour la Protection de la Biodiversité Marine FoProBiM www.FoProBiM.org

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment Lower Trou du Nord River (Caracol Industrial Park)

For the

HA-T1184-SN1

Haiti October, 2013

Jean Wiener Gregory Cronin Thomas May Daniel Dubois Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Contents Acronyms ........................................................................................................................................ 4 I.

Study Scope ............................................................................................................................ 5

II.

Objective ................................................................................................................................. 6

III.

Background and Review of Previous Studies ...................................................................... 6

IV. Study Area .............................................................................................................................. 10 V.

Methods................................................................................................................................. 13

VI.

Results ................................................................................................................................ 15

General Overview ..................................................................................................................... 15 Water Quality Testing ............................................................................................................... 15 Rapid Habitat and Biological Assessments .............................................................................. 18 Terrestrial Flora .................................................................................................................... 19 Coastal and Marine Environment ......................................................................................... 19 Rapid Habitat Assessment (RHA) and Family Biotic Index (FBI) (River) .......................... 20 VII.

Discussion .......................................................................................................................... 21 Charcoal/Fuel Wood ............................................................................................................. 22 Fisheries ................................................................................................................................ 23 Salt production ...................................................................................................................... 24 Water Quality (Pollution and Sedimentation)....................................................................... 24 Climate Change ..................................................................................................................... 25

VIII. IX.

Recommendations .......................................................................................................... 26 Annexes.............................................................................................................................. 28

Annex I

Terms of Reference ................................................................................................. 28

Annex II

Methodology.......................................................................................................... 29

Annex III

Site Data ............................................................................................................... 36

Annex IV

Observed Species Lists ........................................................................................ 59

Annex V

Water Quality Monitoring Parameters ................................................................... 69

Annex VI References .............................................................................................................. 74 Annex VII

Additional Reading ............................................................................................. 75

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Tables Table 1 – Partial List of IUCN Species found along the NE Coast of Haiti Table 2 – Type of Assessment Undertaken at each Site Table 3 – Summary of Animal Biota Assessed for the Trou du Nord and Caracol Bay Study Site Table 4 – Summary of Rapid Habitat and Biota Assessment for sites 1, 2, 3, and 5 Table 5 – Sampling Sites and Recommendations for Ecological Assessments and Long-Term Monitoring of Critical Natural Habitats for Caracol Bay, Haiti Table 6 – List of Local Stakeholders Interviewed Table 7 – Animal Observations Table 8 – Plant Observations Table 9 – Water Test Results (Laboratory) Table 10 – Water Test Results (Multi-meter)

Pg. 8 14, 21

Figures Figure 1 – Hydrological Map of Northeastern Haiti and Trou du Nord Lower Watershed Figure 2 – Proposed Parc des Trois Baies MPA in Northeastern Haiti Figure 3 – Trou du Nord River/Caracol Bay Study Area Figure 4 – Terrestrial Characterization of the Trou du Nord River Study Area Figure 5 – Marine Characterization of Caracol Bay Figure 6 – Water and Biological Sampling Sites in the Trou du Nord and Caracol Bay Study Area Figure 7 – Water Quality Sampling Sites 2 and 3 along the Trou du Nord River Figure 8 – Extent of Sediment Plume on 17 September, 2013 Figure 9 – Fallen Tree and Trash Damming the Trou du Nord River at Site 3 Figure 10 – A Bucket of Strombus spp. at Caracol Village

Pg.

18 21 27 30 58 62 70 73

7 9 10 11 12 13, 31 16 20 22 23

Charts Chart 1 – Oil/Grease Levels – Trou du Nord River Chart 2 – Coliform Counts – Trou du Nord River

Pg. 16 17

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Acronyms CBC CBD CITES CLME CNH EBSA EIA ESA ESIA EU FBI FoProBiM GEF GoH IDB IUCN KBA MPA NFWF NOAA OAS PIC SPAW UNDP UNEP UTE

Caribbean Biological Corridor Convention on Biological Diversity Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Critical Natural Habitat Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas Environmental Impact Assessment Endangered Species Act Environmental and Social Impact Assessment European Union Family Biotic Index Fondation pour la Protection de la Biodiversité Marine Global Environment Facility Government of Haiti Inter-American Development Bank International Union for the Conservation of Nature Key Biodiversity Area Marine Protected Area National Fish and Wildlife Foundation National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Organization of American States Caracol Industrial Parc Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife Protocol United Nations Development Program United Nations Environment Program Technical Execution Unit

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I.

Study Scope

The Caracol Industrial Park (PIC) site is situated less than 2.5 km inland from Caracol Bay and straddles a 1.8 km stretch of the lower portion of Trou de Nord River north of the National Road #6 in Northeastern Haiti. Caracol Bay is part of a riverine, coastal mangrove, sea grass, bay, and coral reef ecosystem; this ecosystem extends from Cap Haitien in the west to Lagon aux Bœufs in the east, and onwards into the Dominican Republic to include the Monte Cristi National Park. These combined ecosystems provide critical spawning and nursery grounds for a wide variety of fish, mollusks and crustaceans. The terrestrial habitats on which the PIC is located are converted farm lands, though the riparian vegetation surrounding the Trou de Nord River plays an important ecological role. Local communities depend heavily on resources from the coastal and marine ecosystems through artisanal and subsistence fisheries including pelagic and coral reef fin fish, benthic resources such as conch, shrimp, sea cucumbers, and lobster as well as through forestry resources including mangroves for charcoal and fuel wood. The area provides important ecosystem services including acting as fisheries nurseries and providing shoreline protection from erosion, wave action, and storm surges. It is one of the more productive coastal and marine areas in Haiti as it also provides important habitat for endangered species including sea turtles, manatees, and corals, and because organic productivity is high, provides important inputs for offshore marine ecosystems. Due to the combination of all of these factors this area has been identified by the Government of Haiti (GoH) as high priority for protection, sustainable management, and the development of a Marine Protected Area (MPA). Also due to its importance, it has been included in bi-national and regional environmental initiatives such as the Caribbean Biological Corridor (CBC), the Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas (EBSA) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem (CLME) project. The area is considered Critical Natural Habitat (CNH) by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB or the Bank). The Bank defines critical natural habitats as those areas that are existing protected areas, areas officially proposed by governments for protection, or sites that maintain conditions that are vital for the viability of the aforementioned areas and unprotected areas of known high conservation value. Caracol Bay meets several criteria for CNH – these criteria are: (i) the area has been proposed as a protected area by the Government of Haiti; (ii) the area is considered highly suitable for biodiversity conservation because its habitats – mangrove forests, coral reefs, and sea grass beds are endangered and provide substantial conservation benefits, and (iii) the area has been recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) through a national prioritization process. The PIC plays a central role in a new wave of development-related growth in the Northeast of Haiti. This development will drive in-migration and so exert significant additional pressures on natural resources in the area. At its peak operating capacity the PIC is expected to employ over 40,000 individuals and host a variety of light industries (KOIOS, 2011). In light of this it may cause potential direct and indirect impacts on the Trou de Nord River and estuary, and Caracol Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Bay’s mangrove forests, sea grass beds, and coral reefs through changes in water quality and flows in the river as well as impacts on biodiversity. There has been no ecological baseline established for the river, estuary, mangrove or coral reef. Previous recent studies in the area including KOIOS 2011, ENVIRON 2011, and AIA 2012, provided only general information on the local ecosystems. Enhancing baseline information is important for the Technical Execution Unit (UTE) of the Ministry of Economy and Finance that is responsible for the development of the PIC to establish mitigation measures including determining appropriate ecological flows and adhering to water quality standards for the river. This study describes a rapid four-week ecological baseline study for the Trou de Nord River and adjacent areas of Caracol Bay that will serve to provide the information required to effectively manage any potential impacts of the PIC on area ecosystems.

II.

Objective

Rapid assessment to establish a preliminary ecological baseline of the aquatic ecosystems in the target area including the river, estuary, mangroves, and coral reefs that may be directly affected by changes in water quality and flows due to the development of the Caracol Industrial Park.

III.

Background and Review of Previous Studies

The PIC is situated in Northeast Haiti in the approximately 110 km2 Trou du Nord watershed. The portion of the watershed that is hydrologically connected to the PIC (the lower watershed) is estimated to be approximately 100 km2 (or 90% of the full watershed) and is characterized by moderately permeable alluvial deposits. The area receives approximately 1,280 mm of rain per year with the primary rainy season being between September to November (ENVIRON 2011). The Trou du Nord River is the primary source of surface water in the vicinity of the PIC and has two sources located in the mountainous region to the south; the first located southwest of the village of Cabaret, and the second southeast of the village of Cabon. These converge approximately 6 km southeast of the town of Trou du Nord. The river continues a further 8.5 km downstream where it crosses through the PIC before finally reaching its estuary at Caracol Bay approximately 3 km due north of the PIC (figure 1). Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Figure 1. Hydrological Map of Northeastern Haiti and Trou du Nord Lower Watershed

(source: Environmental Safeguard Unit, Inter-American Development Bank, 2013)

Part of the target area for this study, the lower reach of the Trou du Nord River, follows a course of approximately 6.5 km from the National Road #6 north to the Caracol/Jacquesyl estuary and Caracol Bay at its terminus. This lowest portion would technically be described as a low-gradient, mid-order stream at the center of a lower watershed area of approximately 10 km2. The Trou du Nord River at the level of the National Road #6 is primarily composed of alluvial mud banks with a gravely/sandy river bottom. As the river makes its way to Caracol Bay the banks decrease in height from approximately 10 m at the start of the study area to becoming non-existent along the lower reach of the river as it approaches the estuary. Banks as high as 10 m, with trash lines at the top, indicate that the river is prone to periodic/sporadic flooding. In its lower reaches, the river often floods nearby farmlands as it begins to form the estuarine area. At this level several observable dry river beds are evident and the river has frequently changed course due to sediment accretion; it may still overflow into these former beds and again change course whenever the river floods. The river bed itself slowly changes from a gravely/sandy composition to a sandy/clay composition as it travels from south to north. Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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The widest part of the river at any point is approximately 30 m with a maximum water depth of 1 m. The upper portion of the study area (at the National Road #6) is exploited by sand mining with heavy trucks coming down to the river to load. The local flora is primarily composed of a mix of native and introduced species. Dry forest perhaps dominated this area at one time but it is now primarily occupied by small-plot farmers with a majority of the area left fallow and undergoing old field succession. Caracol Bay contains over 5,000 ha of mangrove forests, 900 ha (20 km) of coral reefs, and 7,100 ha of sea grass beds all in good to excellent condition; making this area one of the most productive ecosystems in all of Haiti (Wiener, 2013)(figure 3). The fringing coral reef is primarily spur and groove with high rugosity. Red Mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) stands, interspersed with small stands of Black Mangrove (Avicennia germinans), dominate the near-shore environment in two areas: the Western mangroves (Mangwov Madras), and the Eastern mangroves (Mangwov Jacquesyl) providing critical habitat as fish nurseries. Lush, shallow sea grass beds primarily composed of Turtle Grass/Zèb Lanme (Thalassia testudinum) fill most areas not already occupied by coral and mangroves (Wiener, 2013). The coral reefs, shallow sea grass beds, and mangroves combined in this area also play a role in protecting human habitation and investments by providing, among others, the critical ecosystem services of storm protection from ocean surges and waves during hurricane strikes. The beaches provide endangered sea turtle nesting sites at Bord de Mer Limonade and Fon Blan among others, and the mangroves and sea grass beds are good manatee (Trichechus manatus) habitat. The area also contains salt flats, mud flats, and bird nesting sites and supports important migratory routes (e.g., for the North American Osprey, Pandion haliaetus). Although there are fisheries laws for Haiti, none are observed, or enforceable, at this time. Several International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and United States Endangered Species Act (ESA) listed species are found in this area (Table 1). Table 1 – Partial list of IUCN species found along the NE coast of Haiti

Species Acropora palmate Acropora cervicornis Dermochelys coriacea Eretmochelys imbricata Hyporthodus nigritus Epinephelus striatus Sphyrna lewini Trichechus manatus Guaiacum sanctum

Common name English/Kréyol Elkhorn coral/Woch Jenjum Staghorn coral/Woch Jenjum Leatherback Sea Turtle/Kawan Hawksbill Sea Turtle/Karet Warsaw Grouper, Black Grouper, Black Jewfish Nassau Grouper/Neg Scalloped Hammerhead/ Pantoof Wooyé West Indian Manatee/Lamentin Holywood Lignum-vitae

IUCN Status/ ESA Listed Critically Endangered/ESA Critically Endangered/ESA Critically Endangered Critically Endangered Critically Endangered Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Endangered

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Because of its rich and rare combination of ecosystems, the Caracol Bay area is currently on the short list for designation as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) by the government as part of the Parc des Trois Baies following the designation of Haiti’s first MPA, the Aire Protégée de Ressources Naturelles Gérées de Port Salut/Aquin in the Southwest in August, 2013. Initial discussions on this designation have revolved around the possibilities of creating a larger MPA centered upon other important marine habitats in the region including the Lagon aux Bœufs, and Ft. Liberté Bay to the east of Caracol Bay. In the end it appears that all three of these areas will be combined into one MPA, the aforementioned Parc des Trois Baies (figure 2). In undertaking a management plan for the development of any MPA a complete understanding of the terrestrial/marine interaction must be developed; in this case any potential impacts of the PIC on the aquatic ecosystems, including their services. Figure 2 - Proposed Parc des Trois Baies MPA in Northeastern Haiti

(SNAP, PITDD/CNIGS, 2013)

Several reports have examined the coastal and marine environment of Caracol Bay at different levels. The 1997 “Atlas côtier du Nord-Est d'Haïti” was focused primarily on the cultural and natural history of Northeastern Haiti and contains general information on the Caracol Bay area. However, the primary focus was on the cultural heritage of the Ft. Liberté area.

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Two reports by Wiener/OAS/ReefFix provided, first (2009), an economic valuation of the ecosystem services provided by the mangroves and coral reefs of Caracol Bay, and in a second (2013) wider scope iteration, an economic valuation of the mangroves and coral reefs of all nine of Haiti’s proposed Marine Protected Areas. This last evaluation once again included Caracol Bay, with updated figures on Ecosystem Services Valuation (ESV) as well as the areal extent of its sea grass beds. Upcoming surveys/reports which should be completed by the end of this year related or referring to the Caracol Bay area include: surveys on sea turtles (FoProBiM), manatees (FoProBiM), coral reefs (Reefcheck). No documents were found describing aquatic species within the Trou du Nord River.

IV. Study Area

Figure 3 – Trou du Nord River/Caracol Bay Study Area

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Characterization of the Study Area Figure 4 – Terrestrial Characterization of the Trou du Nord River Study Area

Fallow and old field succession (originally dry forest) Riparian zone River Coastal/Estuarine system Approximate extent of lower TdN River watershed

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Figure 5 – Marine Characterization of Caracol Bay

(source: Wiener/OAS, 2013) Coral Reef Mangrove Sea grass River Approximate extent of lower TdN River watershed

Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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V.

Methods

Field work was undertaken in the lowest portion of the Trou du Nord River watershed, north of the Rte. Natl. #6, into the mangrove/estuarine system and out to Caracol’s fringing reef ecosystem (figure 6) from September 12 to September 21, 2013. This study was a rapid baseline assessment to identify critical issues of relevance to management of the impacts of the Caracol Industrial Park. Consequently, the study cannot provide a detailed assessment of temporal changes in biological and physical parameters. Sixteen sites were chosen for water quality analysis and rapid habitat and bio-assessments designated 1 through 5 (riverine) and 6 through 16 (estuarine/marine) (figure 6). Due to difficulty of access and time constraints Site 4 was not assessed. At all sites general water quality was sampled with the use of a multi-meter with parameters such as pH, temperature, and total dissolved solids (TDS), among others, examined. Samples were collected for laboratory analysis at Site 2 (pre-PIC), and post-PIC sites 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Chemical analyses of water at these eight sites were undertaken to assess baseline water quality against IFC EHS Guidelines for discharge limits. Water quality assessments of the riverine system, the estuary, sea grass beds, and coral reefs were carried out in order to establish baselines that will permit assessment of any present or future contamination resulting from activities in the PIC. Figure 6 – Water and Biological Sampling Sites in the Trou de Nord and Caracol Bay Study Area

Biological health (Family Biotic Indices – FBI) were measured in the river upstream (two sites – 1 and 2) and downstream (two sites – 3 and 5) from the PIC in the Trou du Nord River. Site 6 through 16 were chosen in Caracol Bay to cover sampling across estuarine, mangrove, sea grass, and coral reef ecosystems using rapid assessment methods to determine the health and integrity of Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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these systems. Bio-assessments of the Trou du Nord River, estuarine area, and related mangroves and coral reefs in Caracol Bay included the Rapid Habitat and Bio-assessment Protocols adapted for local conditions (Barbour et al. 1999) for the river and transect line and quadrant sampling methods for measuring a variety of biological parameters such as percentage coverage, presence of pollution, and fish abundance among others for the mangrove, coral reef, and sea grass habitats. (Annex II). Water and biotic indices were collected by boat, vehicle, walking, scuba diving, and snorkeling as appropriate. Data was then geo-referenced with the use of Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite imagery, and underwater, and ground level photography. This data was used to assist in the establishment preliminary baseline information including the locations of data collection, present condition of resources, areal extent of resources and species inventories. Table 2 – Type of Assessment Undertaken at each Site

Sites  Parameters  Water Quality (Laboratory) Water Quality (Field) Mangrove Health/Integrity Seagrass Health/Integrity Coral Reef Health/Integrity Family Biotic Index (river)

1

2

3

4

River x x X x x

X x x

5

6

7

x x x x x x x x x

8

9

10

11

12

13

Mangrove/Sea Grass x x X x x X x x x X x x x x X x x x

14

15

16

Coral Reef X

x

X

X

x

X

x

FoProBiM concentrated its biological research efforts on vertebrate and macro-invertebrate species located within the Trou du Nord River and Caracol Bay. These were identified in the field, photographed, and/or collected as necessary for future identification.

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VI. Results General Overview This assessment of the current condition of the Trou du Nord River has allowed for the development of preliminary baseline information for the monitoring of future changes in the watershed, river, estuarine, and coastal and marine environment especially in regard to water quality and biodiversity. The study covered an area of approximately 5,000 ha, including over 1,600 m of river, and 1,500 m of coral reef, mangrove, and sea grass area. Water and biological sampling was undertaken both upstream and downstream of the PIC in order to isolate any potential impacts of this complex on the Trou du Nord River and adjacent ecosystems. There were seven days of rainfall in the study area or its upper watershed during the ten days of field work. There were major rain events on September 9, 12, and 16 in which the river flooded its lower reaches (the study sites) during the night. This rain hindered access to Site 4 and therefore this site along the river was not assessed. According to interviews with 29 local farmers, fishers, and merchants (Annex II) the start of rainy season is typically around the beginning of September with almost daily rain during the months of November and December. Rains typically end January/February with the start of the harvest season, with March/April the start of dry season and salt activities. July and August finds the area in full dry season with salt production at its maximum. However, during hurricane season (June 1 through November 30) and the general instability in the atmosphere causing tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes, all types of storm events may affect the area very briefly or for days on end.

Water Quality Testing A measurement of 2.80 mg/L of oil/grease was observed at Site 3 as the Trou du Nord River exits the PIC. Although below the IFC allowable effluent level of 10 mg/L this measurement raises a concern due to the fact that no other oil/grease presence was observed at any of the seven other sampling locations, including at Site 2, upstream of the PIC, despite observed motorcycle and car washing as well as heavy trucks down next to the river loading sand, and potential run-off from the National Road. More information would need to be collected over an extended period of time in order to determine if this is an anomaly or due to a potential ongoing, and potentially growing, issue.

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Figure 7 – Water quality Sampling Sites 2 and 3 along the Trou du Nord River

Flow

Chart 1 – Oil/Grease Levels – Trou du Nord River

mg/L

Oil/Grease - Trou du Nord River 12 10 8 6 4 2 0

10

10

10

10

2.8 0

0 Site 2

Site 3

0 Site 5

Site 6

Trou du Nord River Sites Oil/Grease

IFC Guideline

The IDB had undertaken surface water quality sampling along the Trou du Nord River at two locations in January, 2013 with reported coliform counts of 2,250 CFU100 ml near FoProBiM Site 2 (upstream of the PIC) and 2,840 CFU100 ml near FoProBiM sample site 3 (downstream of the PIC)(TITAN, 2013). FoProBiM undertook sampling for coliforms at Sites 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 on September 17, 2013. All eight samples were collected by two different teams (one Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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riverine, sites 2, 3, 5, 6; one marine, sites 7, 8, 9, 10) within a two hour period (14:30 to 16:30). These FoProBiM samples exceeded their allowable hold time before laboratory testing causing the coliform counts to rise 2 to 4 times above their original collection levels. Counts of 9,800 CFU/100 ml at Site 2 and 11,300 CFU/100 ml at Site 3 were reported in the Laboratory. This would be the equivalent of 2,400 CFU/100 ml at Site 2 and 2,825 CFU/100 ml at Site 3 (corrected by dividing by 4). There was a slight increase in coliform counts as the river passes through the PIC, however in samples from sites 5 and 6 further downstream these counts continue to increase fairly linearly (Chart 2). Because the levels of presence of coliforms continues to increase through the downstream sites (5 and 6), more sampling and continued monitoring would need to be undertaken further upstream in order to determine if this is a longitudinal trend from the upper watershed to the estuary. Chart 2 – Coliform Counts – Trou du Nord River

CFU100ml

Coliform counts - Trou du Nord River 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

3450

PIC

3050

2825 2840 2400 2250

400 Site 2

400

400

Site 3

400

Site 5

Site 6

Trou du Nord River Sites Coliforms (FoProBiM) Corrected

Coliforms (TITAN)

IFC Guideline

Ammonia levels of 0.061 mg/L at Site 2 (pre-PIC), and 0.126 at Site 3 (post-PIC) and maintained at 0.127 mg/L at Site 5 (post-PIC) are also of concern. At ammonia (unionized NH3) levels of 0.060 mg/L and above (pH and temperature corrected) sensitive fish may begin to suffer from such issues as gill damage and lethargy. In fish, acutely toxic concentrations of ammonia may cause loss of equilibrium, hyperexcitability, increased breathing, cardiac output, and oxygen uptake, and, in extreme cases, convulsions, coma, and death (EPA, 1989). Levels greater than 0.10 mg/L generally begin to indicate what may be considered polluted waters. Relatively high pH levels were observed in various parts of the bay at Sites 6 through 15 with the use of the multi-meter as opposed to samples retrieved for laboratory analysis (annex V). All other water quality parameters were generally within acceptable limits.

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Rapid Habitat and Biological Assessments A total of 121 species (76 plants and 45 animals) were collected/examined during the study. Three animals remain to be identified to species level; 2 decapods, and 1 mollusk, and have been sent to specialists to assist in their identification. A full list of all biota examined including, when known, their scientific name, English name, Kréyol name, distribution, site # where observed, and IUCN Red List status is available in Annex VI. Of particular note is that five species that are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List were encountered in the field during the short survey period. These include Holywood Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum sanctum; Endangered) found at Site 5, and Staghorn Coral/Woch Jenjum (Acropora cervicornis; Critically Endangered/ESA Listed), Elkhorn Coral/Woch Jenjum (Acropora palmata; Critically Endangered/ESA Listed), Lamarck’s Sheet Coral/Woch Jenjum (Agaricia lamarcki; Vulnerable), and Pillar Coral/Woch Jenjum (Dendrogyra cylindrus; Vulnerable) found at marine sampling sites 14 and 16 along the Caracol fringing reef. Two other Red Listed species, although not observed during the field work at the sampling sites, were observed in fishers’ catches during the field work. These include the Nassau Grouper/Neg (Epinephelus striatus; Endangered), and the Loggerhead Sea Turtle/Toti (Caretta caretta; Endangered). Another species of conservation relevance observed includes the Queen Conch/Lambi (Strombus gigas) at sites 6, 7, and 16 which is Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) listed (table 2). The American Eel (Anguilla rostata) was the only riverine species which was described by local fishermen as being in decline. None of those interviewed stated that any other species was in decline or had disappeared from the river in their lifetime or as recounted by their elders. It must be noted that only four fishers (two pairs) were encountered in the river/estuary during the study; at sites 3 and 6. All marketable marine species were described as being in decline by local fishers. Table 3. Summary of Animal Biota Assessed for the Trou du Nord and Caracol Bay Study Site Presence Taxa/Group Habitat Native Endemic Introd. Unidentified Sub-Total Total Threatened Osteichthyes 21 1 Northeastern FW/Est.1 6 1 0 8 Haiti /Not Assessed

Marine2

13

-

-

-

13

Decapoda FW/Est.1 Marine2

4

-

-

2 -

2 4

FW/Est.1 Marine2 Echinodermata Marine2 Cnidaria Marine2 Insecta FW/Est.1 Total -

3

-

-

1 -

1 3

1

-

-

-

1

7

-

-

-

7

6 40

1

1

3

6 45

Mollusca

1

-

6

Freshwater/Estuarine

4 1 7 6 45

4: 2(CR), 2(VU) 4: 2(CR), 2(VU) 4

2

No marine species were expected to be endemic Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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The Northeastern Haiti endemic species the Few-rayed Limia (Limia pauciradiata) although not yet assessed in the IUCN Red List was collected from the Trou du Nord River. This species was previously only known from the Grande Rivière du Nord just to the west of the Trou du Nord River.

Terrestrial Flora The local flora is primarily composed of a mix of native and introduced species. Dry forest perhaps dominated this area at one time but it is now primarily occupied by small-plot farmers with a majority of the area left fallow and undergoing old field succession. Vegetation including Maskriti (Rhizinus communis), Pyé fle (Jatropha gossypifolia), Belle Mexicaine (Antigonum leptotpus), and Zèb Egiy (Hyptis cf. suaveolens) are found to be colonizing several of the old river beds. Along the banks of the river Momben Fey (Spondias mombin), Momben Bata (Trichilia hirta), and Rabi (Hura crepitans) are common species. At various sites along both river banks are monoculture banana plantations. Fences are mainly made of Agave sp. and Kandelab/Raket (Euphorbia lactea). Trees such as Mango/Mango (Mangifera indica), Avocado/Zaboka (Persea americana), Momben Fey (S. mombin), and Cigual (Spondias purpurea) are common. At one of the former outlets of the river a mangrove area is present composed primarily of White Mangrove/Mangwov Blan (Laguncularia racemosa). On a strip of approximately 200 x 100 meters to the open sea mangrove trees were recently cut down for charcoal production. Within this strip good seedling regeneration of L. racemosa was observed. Red mangroves/Mangwov wouj (Rhizophora mangle) dominate the Caracol mangrove system. More details for observations of biota at each site are found in annex IV. Coastal and Marine Environment A rapid evaluation of the current status of coral reefs, sea-grass beds, and mangroves was conducted using the parameters in the Methodology section (annex II) in order to establish indicators of their health and integrity to serve as a preliminary baseline in future management. The mangroves, although exploited primarily for charcoal and fuel wood and historically cleared for the creation of salt pans, remain relatively healthy. The sea grass beds appear to be subject to somewhat heavy sediment loads close to the estuary after observations of water clarity and the extent of the river’s sediment plume (Figure 8); however, they remain in good condition with lush beds observed throughout the study site. The coral reefs also remain fairly healthy despite the mass die-off of two of its primary builders the IUCN Red Listed Elkhorn Coral and Staghorn Coral (Acropora palmata, and A.cervicornis) beginning in the 1980s. Many colonies of the Critically Endangered (CE) Elkhorn Coral as well as a colony of CE Staghorn Coral were observed on the fringing coral reef at sites 14 and 16. Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Figure 8 - Extent of Sediment Plume on 17 September, 2013

Extent of sediment plume River Approximate extent of lower TdN River watershed

Rapid Habitat Assessment (RHA) and Family Biotic Index (FBI) (River) Rapid habitat assessment protocols for rivers were conducted at Sites 1, 2, 3, and 5 (site 4 was not assessed due to difficulty of access). All four sites had a “fair” habitat condition rating. The “fair” rating generally stems from the sites having good riparian vegetation and channel flow and poor substrata characteristics. Only freshwater macro-invertebrates were used to assess the Family Biotic Index (FBI) of each site. Because macro-invertebrates are generally more affected by substrata than riparian vegetation, it is not surprising that the FBIs were “fairly poor to poor”. Relatively few taxa were found at the sites, and these tended to be taxa that were tolerant of pollution and stressors. Site 3 had the lowest FBI that corresponded to a “fair” macro-invertebrate community. Sites 1 and 5 were “fairly poor”, and site 2 was “poor”. The riverine habitat appears to be fairly consistent throughout the sampled sites and would indicate that there is no significant difference above or below the PIC in terms of river habitats and biota which are not already affected by existing influences.

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Table 4 - Summary of Rapid Habitat, and Biota Assessments for sites 1, 2, 3, and 5

Summary of Rapid Habitat and Biota Assessments for sites 1, 2, 3, and 5 Site 1 2 3 5

Habitat Index 0.44 0.41 0.42 0.46

Rating Fair Fair Fair Fair

Site 1 2 3 5

Biota FBI Rating 6.2 Fairly Poor 6.9 Poor 5.6 Fair 6.3 Fairly poor

A main limitation of a rapid bio-assessment is the natural variability in presence that many species exhibit, causing natural shifts in the stream community structure. This natural variability can only be assessed through repeat sampling, which is an essential part of any preliminary baseline study used to determine if future changes are natural vs. anthropogenic. As an example, some of the decapods observed within the river were berried indicating that they were captured during their reproductive season. Keystone/indicator species are often top predators. Identifying keystone/indicator species is difficult and requires long-term ecological studies which were not possible during this study. However, if such a species is identified in the future, the biological data collected in this rapid assessment should assist in the capture of this important information. Subsequent monitoring will need to be scheduled to optimize information that would protect critical life stages of important, endangered, and keystone species. Due to the short duration of this rapid assessment the possibility of determining keystone/indicator species was limited.

VII. Discussion Numerous anthropogenic stressors affect the Trou du Nord River and associated areas of Caracol Bay assessed during this study. These stressors include, but are not limited to, deforestation for charcoal and fuel wood production, riverine substrate disturbance through sand and gravel mining, sedimentation resulting from upstream erosion, over-fishing, sewerage intrusion, and solid waste accumulation because of poor trash management. Deforestation and agricultural activities reduce aquifer recharge and increase storm water runoff, erosion, and sedimentation into the stream and bay. The stream water has a visibly high total suspended solids (TSS), which increases the embeddedness of the substratum reducing the habitat available to benthic macro-invertebrates, thus resulting in poor Family Biotic Index (FBI) scores.

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Figure 9 - A Fallen Tree and Trash Damming the Trou du Nord River at Site 3

The main degrading activities for the coastal and marine environment are over-fishing and mangrove destruction (charcoal/fuel wood, and salt pan development) as observed at several sites including charcoal production at Fon Blan, and salt pan development along large portions of the coast (e.g. Caracol and Jacquesyl). The extent of mangrove cutting, although not often visible in the forest during boating visits, becomes apparent upon visits to certain charcoal producing areas along the coast. Fishers in the area exploit all resources without respite and a critical lack of fish in local waters was evident during this study. Activities related to the PIC including deforestation/land clearing, potential contaminants borne in any effluent, and solid waste disposal pose the primary threats from this facility. Growing populations of workers immigrating to the area may also pose additional threats in the form of increased pressures on local resources including: deforestation (e.g. clearing of mangroves), increased sewerage outputs, and increased food requirements (fishing and farming). Charcoal/Fuel Wood Forestry resources are being degraded through the exploitation of terrestrial species as well as mangroves for firewood, charcoal, and building materials, and through the creation of evaporation pans for salt production. Charcoal/fuel wood production remains the primary threat to local trees as it is in most of Haiti. Harvesting is primarily limited to the use of non-fruit bearing species, but it is still common to see even these having been cut for consumption. The vast majority of harvesting occurs for consumption in households, bakeries, and dry cleaners with certain longer branches/trunks used in the construction industry as supporting members. Despite the recent governmental decree in August of 2013 prohibiting the exploitation of mangroves of any type in Haiti, Caracol Bay’s abundance of mangroves and the difficulties of monitoring, let along halting, their harvesting has continued to make them an easy target for local charcoal producers; harvesting continues unabated.

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Through informal interviews with local stakeholders the historical uses of the riparian areas of the Trou du Nord River remain unclear. Clear historical delimitations of land use were not found. Most of the area appears to have been used for large scale agriculture including sisal, but much of the area may have also been planted in sugar cane. Some of the area is now used by small-plot farmers raising bananas, beans, and sugar cane while large sections are undergoing old field succession or remains fallow. Fisheries Overfishing occurs throughout the entire Caracol Bay area and is particularly poignant when observing the coral reef areas where sighting any type of fish over 10 cm is an extremely rare event. No fishes over 10 cm in length were observed on any of the scuba or snorkeling surveys. Fishers use all types of gear all year long without regard to reproductive needs of the resources or appropriateness of gear. This has brought about serious perturbations in the local ecosystems as important herbivores are harvested causing unchecked overgrowth of algae on the reefs. A wide variety of fish and fisheries methods were observed during the field study period. Spear guns and harpoons (both illegal), lines, traps, triple-mesh nets, seines, and compressors were all observed. A variety of catch from both pelagic, coral reef, and sea grass bed fisheries including Bar/Karan and Almaco Jacks (Caranx ruber and Seriola rivoliana), Parrotfish/Péwokè (Scaridae spp.), Eels/Kong (Gymnothorax spp., Muraena spp.), Caribbean Spiny and Spanish lobsters/Gwoma (Panulirus argus and Scyllarides aequinoctialis), and Queen, Milk, and Hawking Conch/Lambi (Stombus gigas, S. costatus, and S. raninus) were observed in local catch. Surprisingly, no Squirrelfish (Holocentrus spp.), which are generally common at many other reef sites in Haiti, were observed at any point. Lionfish/Pwason Lyon (Pterois miles and P. volitans) as important threatening invasives have increased in distribution and are now a common part of the Haitian fish diet. Figure 10 – A Bucket of Strombus spp. at Caracol Village

The over-exploitation of sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea) and American Eels (Anguilla rostata) for export to Asia is a serious concern due to the potentially damaging effects on the local ecosystems. The presence in the Trou du Nord River of the Northeastern Haiti endemic fish the Few-rayed Limia (Limia pauciradiata) should provide additional impetus to, at least, protect the Trou du Nord River from any type of damaging activities, and in a larger view, encourage actions to rehabilitate this important watershed to ensure the preservation of this species. As a live-bearing Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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(lecithotrophic) species its ability to expand its current extremely restricted geographic distribution and therefore its ability to ensure the species’ survival is very limited. Salt production Salt production in the study area has caused the destruction of mangrove areas and continues to be a threat through continued, but recently slowing, expansion. In discussions with local salters the reasons for this slowing was linked to the inability of the salters to stabilize the banks of their pans, and therefore produce a high quality, competitive, product (dirt and other wastes often contaminate the final product). Local salters have recently had the opportunity to sell their production to the PIC for use in the water treatment facility. However, the local salt was found to be of too poor quality to be of use. If local salters were capable of producing a high quality product for sale to the PIC the destruction of local mangroves for the creation of additional salt pans to supply this need may be an unexpected and unfortunate side effect. Any agreement by the PIC to purchase salt from the local suppliers should be conditioned with an accord that 1) the local salters will be provided with financial and technical assistance to produce a better product more efficiently, and thereby 2) no new salt pans will be created at the detriment of the mangroves or other Critical Natural Habitat. Water Quality (Pollution and Sedimentation) Increased levels of ammonia and the sudden appearance of oil/grease at the first sampling site post-PIC (Site 3) should be cause for concern. These spikes at Site 3 may be linked to PIC construction activities (oil/grease) and possible waste water management/processing issues (ammonia). High levels of coliforms may have been expected with the first rains of the season pushing waste accumulated in the watershed into the river. However, the three flooding events in the study area on the nights of September 9, 12, and 16 may have flushed out and diluted these accumulations just before the sampling on September 17. High pH levels in the field marine samples may be explained in part by the fact that the data collected with the multi-meter was collected during the middle of a hot, sunny day when sea grass productivity is at its highest, and the samples collected for laboratory analysis were collected very late in the afternoon on a cloudy day. The somewhat high pH values, can be related to the increased diurnal removal of CO2 and associated carbonic acid from the sea water in highly productive sea grass beds (of which Caracol Bay certainly is one). This effect tends to level out around a pH level of 9. The general effects of mangroves is to acidify their surrounding area. It therefore appears that the sea grass beds are quite productive, considering the amount of mangroves with which they are intermingled. More extensive and continued monitoring would be needed to verify and clarify the sources of all of the above spikes and measurements. Due to time constraints a proper ecotoxicology test was not performed. The identification of locally abundant species rather than “standard” test organisms such as Ciriodaphnia dubia, Daphnia magna or Flathead Minnows (Pimephales promelas) would be preferable as these could Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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be naturally found in the river, readily available, and potentially collected in sufficient numbers for suitable bioassays. A disadvantage would potentially include a lack of information about the tolerance of the different species to various pollutants and stressors. Due to the fact that it is located in the estuary at the outfall of the river, is sessile, a filter feeder, and abundant the mangrove oyster (Crassostrea rhizophorae) may be an option for tissue sampling for the bio-accumulation of toxins such as certain heavy metals and other potential PIC effluent. An ecotoxicology assay could also be used through the identification of locally abundant insect larva with intermediate sensitivity to pollutants. Sediment testing should also be undertaken in order to gauge the accumulation of a wide variety of potential toxins and pollutants as these settle in different locations along the river, estuary, and bay. Proposed mining activities in the upper Trou du Nord River watershed may also pose a serious threat to all areas located downstream. Impacts may include: increased deforestation; increased erosion/sedimentation; loss of biodiversity; destruction of habitat; contamination of surface, ground, and sea waters; and the contamination of soil. Climate Change Rising oceanic waters may eventually flood low lying areas of Caracol Bay, including most of the villages of Bord de Mer Limonade, Madras, Caracol, and Jacquesyl as well as cause increased sea water infiltration into the local water table, flood-out important sea turtle nesting beaches, the loss/modification of wetlands and estuaries, increase coastal erosion, and changes in reproductive behavior and presence of many species. Rising oceanic water temperatures may lead to changes in the migratory routes of certain species causing their disappearance from, or appearance in, Haitian waters, and increase the incidence and possible severity of coral bleaching events leading to further loss of corals. Increasing ocean acidification may have damaging effects on calcareous marine organisms (e.g. corals, shellfish) as their ability to grow and maintain their calcium carbonate structures are impaired (Gazeau, 2007). The loss of coral reefs and their important ecosystem services (e.g. coastal protection, fisheries production) as well as losses of shellfish production would increase economic and social stresses with local communities.

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VIII. Recommendations The mangrove, sea grass beds, and coral reef habitats of Caracol Bay are presently relatively healthy. These systems are, however, under threat from existing activities, and as described in this report and the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) (KOIOS, 2011), the operation of the PIC as well as a likely influx of new people to the area and could potentially exacerbate various threats. Coral reef organisms are highly sensitive to nitrates and can begin to be affected at levels below 2 ppm. Serious effects on these organisms can begin to take place above this concentration. In addition, increased nutrients can also lead to damaging algal over-growth on coral reefs. The Trou du Nord River and estuary has historically been impacted by heavy sedimentation and presently the river exhibits high levels of fecal coliforms and potential contamination with ammonia and oil/grease. The physical geography of the Trou de Nord River has already been affected by sediment load and solid waste (particularly plastics) in the river. The changes in flows and channels in the estuary of the Trou de Nord River could affect the distribution and success of mangroves and sea grass beds in Caracol Bay. Sea grasses are highly sensitive to sediment loads and there is an existing high level of sediment in the Trou de Nord River. The environmental monitoring and management system of the PIC should:  take into account how outflows from the river may elevate nutrient levels, in particular, nitrates in sensitive areas of Caracol Bay;  ensure that sediment loads are not increased above the baseline levels, including managing storm water runoff from the site and managing sediment runoff during construction activities;  strictly manage solid wastes. The river also supports a population of a Northeast Haiti endemic freshwater fish species (Limia pauciradiata); all precautions should be taken to protect this species and its habitat. Through the UTE there is a program to improve the management of this area that is associated with the GoH program to establish the Parc des Trois Baies Protected Area. This includes: 1. Working with local and national partners to undertake the urgent need for additional baseline studies and a structured water quality and biological monitoring program that includes regularized sampling of water quality and biotic indices which can evaluate changes in these parameters in the Trou du Nord River, estuary, and out into the Caracol Bay mangroves, sea grasses, and coral reefs. This should including all safeguard measures and environmental quality and monitoring regimes and the necessary framework to ensure sustainability and enforcement of laws. 2. The development of alternative environmentally friendly and sustainable livelihoods for local stakeholders. 3. Improving local understanding of the value of the proper management of area resources.

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These recommendations should be explicitly incorporated into the environmental and social management system for the PIC operations. Table 5 - Sampling Sites and Recommendations for Ecological Assessments and Long-Term Monitoring of Critical Natural Habitats for Caracol Bay, Haiti.

Sampling for this Rapid Assessment

River(s)1 Sea grass beds Mangroves Coral reefs Water quality 1 2

Sampling for wider Recommendation for preliminary baseline continued monitoring survey (all of Caracol Bay) # of sites frequency # of sites frequency2 # of sites frequency2 6(TdN only) 1 4 1 4 Quarterly 3 1 12 1 10 Biannual 4 3 16

1 1 1

12 12 41

1 1 1

12 10 41

Biannual Biannual Monthly

each river (Trou du Nord, Grand Riviere du Nord) minimum

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IX. Annexes Annex I

Terms of Reference

Review all available information: The consultants should review all available information including historical reports and consultant’s reports evaluating the environmental impacts of the PIC and other initiatives within the same area. This evaluation should include consideration of climate change as well as document historical changes in river and aquatic-marine habitats. Design field work: Based on the review of available information, the consultants should design a sampling approach for the field studies including determination of the most suitable seasonal timing and sampling scale for surveys for different taxonomic groups. Undertake field work: The consultant team will identify, characterize, and where possible quantify and map the present status, historical trends and recent changes in key biological features in the river, estuary, and mangroves. This should include:  A species database for the area (vertebrates, key invertebrates, and higher plants) with scientific and local name (if it exists), indication of origin (native, endemic, introduced), IUCN threat category, threats according to national or regional listings, broad habitat associations and relative abundance (historical record only, rare, and abundant). The database should be established using field surveys, interviews, published material and grey literature and should be consistent with the national requirements for data management.  The sampling strategy used to establish the data for this database must be presented and should take into account and seasonal variability of species presence. The database should include detailed information for keystone and threatened species; the rationale for selecting species as keystone or threatened should be presented. For each keystone and threatened species, the team should prepare a regional distribution and abundance map, description of the detailed habitat requirements, and historical information on population trends. For species with historical presence only, information should be provided on date of last record in the area, as well as current distribution within the geographical unit of Hispaniola.  Where possible, the baseline should include an understanding of the requirements of critical life history stages for species. The baseline studies should identify indicator species for toxicity measures, target habitats and species for ecological flow assessment, and establish a preliminary baseline for long term biodiversity monitoring.  The field work should include the identification, mapping and characterization of the major terrestrial, riverine, coastal and marine habitats in the area. This mapping should include measuring the physical-chemical parameters of surface waters through water sampling (avoiding duplication of existing surveys).  The field work should include the definition and mapping of any critical natural habitats and natural habitats should also be finalized (both by mapping and with coordinates). Description of current and historical climatic variability in the region, both annually and inter-annually due to the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, and any severe weather events that have occurred in the area and their impact. Description of geology, soil and sediment types (where relevant) and above and underground water resources within the area. Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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 

The field work should include the participatory rapid assessment of resource use and threats to resources to identify synergistic existing impacts that affect water quality and flows and estimate the resource values for local users. Undertake a rapid ecological flow assessment to assess impacts from changes in flows and provide the basis for developing a flow management plan.

Undertake an information gap analysis: The consultants should evaluate existing information including the results of the field studies to identify any critical gaps in information that should be filled to finalize an assessment of the impacts of the PIC and the development and implementation of mitigation measures. Report preparation: The consultants should prepare draft and final reports including: (i) definition of areas covered by the report; (ii) summary of the review of available information; (iii) description of field methods and approach; (iv) results from field studies; (v) maps of habitats within area covered by the report; (vi) identification of key biodiversity features; (vi) description of qualifications of consultants; (vii) species lists; (vii) identification of outstanding key information gaps; (viii) database of sampling locations, species locations, and other field information.

Annex II

Methodology

General Field work was undertaken from September 12 to September 21, 2013 within the entire study time of September 1, 2013 to October 11, 2013. Activities were undertaken in the lowest portion of the Trou du Nord River watershed, north of the National Road #6, into the mangrove/estuarine system and out to Caracol’s fringing reef ecosystem. Sixteen survey sites were chosen and numbered 1 thru 16 and both biological assessments and water quality sampling were undertaken at all sites. Site 4 was not assessed due to difficulty accessing this site as well as time constraints. The short time period for execution of this study could only provide a snapshot of the local ecosystems. It did not allow for the capture of potential temporal variations which would allow for, among other parameters, a broader evaluation of the presence of different taxonomic groups or changes in water quality. Longer term and more intensive monitoring would be required to capture these variations in the local ecosystems. The team undertook research online, as well as interviews with local fishermen, farmers, and merchants in order to determine available information and information gaps. Background research and review of publically available data on area ecosystems with a particular focus on historical records on ecosystems within the lower Trou du Nord watershed was undertaken by project team members (annex VI). On-site, one-on-one informal open interviews were conducted with 29 local stakeholders (fishers, farmers, merchants) (table 5) along with constant random interviews with other individuals and groups encountered in order to collect information on their views of local resource use and management, weather (rainy seasons), and to determine if there are any unreported threats to the target ecosystems (pollution, water diversion, destruction of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, etc.). One-on-one interviews were undertaken to prevent bias from others. Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Local individuals provided the research team with information which included the best access points to needed sampling sites along the river, locations of potential sea turtle nesting sites, locations of charcoal production sites, historical trends in both biodiversity and physical characteristics of the riverine system as well as letting the team examine their catch for data collection. Table 6 – List of Local Stakeholders Interviewed

Name Jean Phomphilé Alustra Yston Wilson Ernetso Jean-Robert Nicolas Osiri Johnson Alix Brutus Kenol Tamik Josue Joseph Pierre Cadet Toto Paul Simon Anelson Pierre Louradin Dieugrand Cadet Jackson Gherline Nosime Maudeline Johnny Thoma Jude Samson Georges Jojo Pierre Pierre Léosthene Josue Jean-Baptiste Pe Georges Philomène Patrick Sison Johnny Kola Landry Fito Josue Sonson

Sex M M M M M M M M M M M M M M F F M M M M M M M F M M

Age 34 23 54 78 43 24 56 46 45 34 73 34 34 50 56 64 63 26 43 44 46 34 55 22 56 45

M

53

M M

44 45

Occupation Salter Farmer Farmer Farmer Farmer Salter Fisher Fisher Fisher Fisher Fisher Fisher Fisher Fisher Salter Fisher Farmer Farmer Farmer Farmer Farmer Farmer Fisher Merchant Fisher Merchant Former Mayor Farmer Merchant

DoI(Sept.) 21 17 21 12 14 15 21 15 15 18 21 21 20 15 21 21 16 16 21 20 21 20 19 21 21 19

Location Jacquesyl Caracol Jacquesyl Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Caracol Jacquesyl Jacquesyl Caracol Caracol Jacquesyl Caracol Caracol Bord de Mer Limonade Caracol Caracol Jacquesyl Caracol

21

Caracol

21 21

Caracol Caracol

Data for preparing the preliminary baseline assessment of the Trou du Nord River and associated coastal and marine areas in the area of the PIC were gathered through ground-truthing activities by boat, vehicle, walking, and snorkeling as appropriate, as well as the use of Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite imagery, and underwater, and ground level photography. This data was Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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used to establish preliminary baseline information of the 16 sites including the locations of data collection, present condition of resources, areal extent of resources as well as samples of various sites. Areal data in particular was collected through a combination of on-the-ground measurements and Google Earth remote imaging. The latest available Google Earth imagery was used and ground-truthed with GPS coordinates from both a Garmin hand-held unit as well as the GPS unit included with the Hanna multi-meter and any available recent photography. Mapping data for habitats/ecosystems is provided in the form of Google Earth Pro .kmz or .kml files with these images being presented within this document. Figure 6 – Water and Biological Sampling Sites in the Trou de Nord and Caracol Bay Study Area

Water and biotic indices were measured upstream from the PIC, at the mouth of the Trou du Nord River, in the river estuary, as well as within Caracol Bay. Water depth in meters was taken using a calibrated drop line at all sampling sites and visibility was measured using a 20 cm Secchi Disk also with a calibrated line. Although in the rapid assessments of these 16 sites it would not be possible to always undertake very detailed observations, special attention was paid the presence or lack of certain endangered species such as Acropora spp., sea turtles, and manatees. Since no biological assessments of the Trou du Nord River was found all sampling sites for this study are now control sites for any future surveys. Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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Table 2 – Type of Assessment Undertaken at each Site

Sites  Parameters  Water Quality (Laboratory) Water Quality (Field) Mangrove Health/Integrity Seagrass Health/Integrity Coral Reef Health/Integrity Family Biotic Index

1 2 3

4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

x x x x x x x x x x X x x x x x x x x x x x x x

X X X X

x x x

x x

x x x

x

X

X

x

X

X

x

Water Quality (Laboratory) Water quality tests at eight sites were undertaken for Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Adsorbable Organic Halogens (AOX), Total Suspened Solids (TSS), Oil & Grease, Organochlorine Pesticides, Organophosphorus Pesticides, Cadmium, Total Chromium, Hexavalent Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, Nickel, Zinc, Phenol, Sulfide, Ammonia, Color, Total Phosphorus, Total Nitrogen, Total Coliform, Mercury, Total Alkalinity, Nitrate, Sulfate, and Total Organic Nitrogen in a laboratory in Florida, United States. Chemical analyses of water was undertaken to follow appropriate protocols developed to meet the standards of the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The direct distance between the two furthest sampling sites (2 and 7) is 6.2 km. The eight samples were collected at sites 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 (four along the river/estuary, four along the north side of the estuary in Caracol Bay) and were chosen for their representativity as control sites along the river and near the estuarine system. These samples were collected late in the afternoon of September 17th, 2013 packed in ice (coolers) and shipped to Florida Spectrum Environmental Services Inc. in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida for testing on the morning of September 18th, 2013. Water Quality (Field) Field sampling at all 16 sites was undertaken using a Hanna 9828 multi-meter probe capable of collecting and logging information on: pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen - DO%, conductivity mS/cm A, resistivity - Ohm•cm, total dissolved solids - TDS g/l, salinity – PSU, and water density – σt. The direct distance between the two furthest sampling sites (1 and 14) is 14 km. The approximate mixing zone at the estuary which closely matched the river’s sediment plume was determined through the measurement of the salinity gradient.

Mangrove, Coral Reef, and Sea Grass Health and Integrity A rapid evaluation of the current status of coral reefs, sea-grass beds, and mangroves was conducted using the parameters below in order to establish indicators of their health to serve as a Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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preliminary baseline in future management. These same parameters can continue to be used, and hopefully expanded upon, in order to provide continued monitoring of ecosystem health and through this the effects of any proposed threat reduction and/or socio-economic recovery activities. The important parameter of monitoring the areal extent of ecosystems included the use of satellite and photo (underwater, aerial, ground level) assessments, and should also be continued to monitor threats to and health of sites. Mangroves assessment and criteria for monitoring Four parameters for threats to mangrove were evaluated at sites 7, 10, 11 and 13. These included: Parameter Cutting – exploitation of mangroves, especially for use in the production of charcoal, fuel wood, and tannin

Indicator

Impact on Ecosystem

signs of cutting either along the perimeter or within the mangrove site

stress on and loss of mangroves due to exploitation

Fuel and Oil – gasoline, diesel, and oils

potential for the area to be affected by fuel or oil (e.g. boating activity and/or spills)

death of all types of life forms

Modification – the physical alteration of a site

change to the site such as fillin and/or construction or farmland encroachment

Marine Debris – debris which has entered the coastal and marine environment

marine debris present near or within the site

loss of ecosystem integrity due to abrupt changes such as diminished size and/or parceling strangulation, entrapment, and ingestion by marine life; growth restriction and aesthetic concerns

To monitor habitat health/integrity the following parameters were used for mangroves. Parameter

Indicator

Indicator Justification determines health of trees and Canopy cover visual estimate of leaf cover stand by the amount of leaf (shade/light cover %) (poor, fair, good, or excellent) growth in canopy three of the largest visible and provides a long-term Trunk/branch diameter accessible trunks/branches indication of growth and measured health of stand Estimated maximum height of visual estimate of the average provides an indication of stand (in feet) height of trees in the stand growth and health most predominant mangrove indicator of type and health of Types of mangroves present type stand Assessments of sea grass cover were also undertaken at sites adjacent to mangrove sites using the parameters listed below (10 x 1 m2 random sampling quadrants).

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Coral Reef and Sea Grass assessment and criteria for monitoring Four parameters for threats to coral reefs (sites 14, 15, 16) and sea-grasses (sites 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13) were evaluated. These included: Parameter Sedimentation – (soil washed down from watersheds which enters the coastal and marine environment causing harm to sea-grasses and coral reefs) Overfishing/overexploitation – (the use of unsustainable and often inappropriate methods for the harvesting of seafood) Damage – (harm to coral reefs generally caused by boat groundings and anchors) Marine Debris – (trash which has entered the coastal and marine environment)

Indicator

Impact on Ecosystem

an obvious threat of sediment and nutrients potentially affecting the site (eutrophication)

smothering and killing of corals and sea-grasses (algal overgrowth)

an obvious scarcity of fish and other marine resources

imbalance of food chain (e.g. algal overgrowth with the removal of herbivorous fishes)

broken coral from boat impacts or anchoring damage

damage and death of corals; aesthetic concerns

marine debris present near or within the site

strangulation, entrapment, and ingestion, by marine life; growth restriction and aesthetic concerns

To monitor habitat health/integrity the following parameters were used for coral reefs and seagrasses. Parameter Coral cover

Algal cover on coral

Fish abundance Sea grass cover1 1

Indicator percentage of coral present on reef in random 1 m2 quadrants percentage of algal cover on coral reef present in random 1 1 m2 quadrants Presence of mature fish (poor, fair, good, excellent) percentage of sea-grass cover present in random 1 m2 quadrants

Indicator Justification determines amount/health of coral growth determines health of coral and presence or absence of herbivores as well as possible effects of eutrophication health of reef and determination of overfishing health of sea-grasses through density

taken at closest open patch of sea grass adjacent to above measurements

Along with 10 x 1 m 2 random quadrants, snorkel/scuba transects of a minimum of 100 m in length were undertaken at sites 7, 10, 11, and 13 adjacent to mangrove sites, and sites 14, 15, and 16 at the coral reef sites in order to gauge the health of these systems. These ten random 1 m2 quadrant samples were taken at each of these marine sites in order to determine the percentage of coral cover Rapid Ecological Baseline Assessment - Lower Trou du Nord River FoProBiM

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or sea grass cover (in this rapid assessment, to the closest 25th percentile; normally the closest 10th percentile is calculated). Surveys were undertaken for two to three hours at each site.

Rapid Habitat/Biological Assessment (River) FoProBiM concentrated its efforts on actively searching for vertebrate and macro-invertebrate species located within the Trou du Nord River. An average of two to three hours was spent at each riverine site actively searching for, collecting, and identifying species. Species were identified in the field, photographed, and/or collected as necessary for future identification. Assessment of the current environmental condition of the Trou du Nord River included the Rapid Bio-assessment Protocols adapted for local conditions (Barbour et al. 1999) measuring a wide variety of biochemical parameters and methods described in the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Phase 2 Stream Geomorphic Assessment for Rapid Habitat and Biological Assessments (RHBA). Six sites were originally chosen for macro-biological sampling along the river. Due to difficulties in accessing Site 4 due to flooding and time constraints, five original sites were sampled and the site designated as #6 was split in two, 6a and 6b. Biotic indices for the river were determined by examining and collecting macro-invertebrates, periphyton and vegetation at each site as appropriate. Because the flora and fauna of the Trou du Nord have not been completely cataloged sampling was conducted and voucher specimens taken and preserved for future identification and description when possible. At each sampling site organisms were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level in the field, and when appropriate used to calculate a Family Biotic Index (FBI). All sites were studied with the use of sampling nets including a 4ft. high/10ft. long sampling seine (1/4” mesh) dragged along 50 ft. long sections of the river (both open areas and along the riparian zone), a 3/8” mesh 5’ radius cast net, as well as the use of an 18” D-net for sampling in riparian vegetation, and an 18” bottom kick net for the collection of macro-invertebrates. The total area surveyed is included in the individual Site Data section (annex III). At sites 1, 3, and 6a locals were observed fishing in the river and their catch was also examined and included in the species database. The geomorphology of the stream was examined for evidence of over-bank flow, channel erosion and aggradation, and embeddedness of substrata. Diversity of substrata types was assessed as part of the rapid habitat assessment protocols. Sampling sites along the river, as well as in the Bay itself, provided a wide enough spread to establish control sites which can determine if ecological impacts are emanating from the PIC or not. Biotic indices change temporally because of natural life-cycle patterns of species. These surveys should be repeated in different seasons to be scientifically rigorous, and during the same seasons in different years to monitor changes. This study is simply providing a snapshot of the system with a single visit.

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Annex III

Site Data

Site 1 Site # Description Location Sampling Date(s) Area Surveyed

1 River 19°39.373'N 72°00.401'W September 12, 14, 2013 River 430 m Terrestrial 12 ha

Description Alluvial mud banks with somewhat gravely to sandy bottom. Widest part of river is approximately 30m with a maximum depth of 1 m. Upper part of site is exploited by sand mining with trucks coming down to the river to load. Vehicles and motorcycles were also often observed being washed in the river along the intersection of the National Road #6 and the river (southeast side). Possibilities of hydrocarbons entering the river from these activities as well as rain events washing them into the river from the nearby roadway. Banks as high as 10 m with trash lines to the top. Trash line at the level of the terrace indicates that the sites near the river could periodically flood.

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Site 1 - Habitat Assessment Site # Habitat Assessment

Condition

9/14/13

4pm

score 3 13 2 4 7 14 12 5 6 3 2 8 8 87

max possible 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 200

0.43

1

Family Biotic Index

Habitat Epifaunal cover Pool substrate Pool variability Sediment deposition Channel flow status Channel alteration Channel sinuosity Bank stability (left bank) Bank stability (right bank) Vegetative protection (left bank) Vegetative protection (right bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (left bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (right bank) Total score Habitat index

1

Taxa Gomphidae Libellulidae Coenagrionidae Decapoda (Prawn) Decapoda (Prawn) Decapoda (Shrimp) Total

FBI

Fair

0.85 – 1.00 Reference Condition 0.65 – 0.84 Good Condition 0.35 – 0.64 Fair Condition 0.00 – 0.34 Poor Condition

number 3 4 3 5 4 8 27

life stage larva larva larva immature adult adult

biotic score

total 1 9 9 6 6 6

6.22 Fairly Poor

0-3.75: Excellent 3.76-4.25: very good 4.26-5.0: Good 5.01-5.75: Fair 5.76-6.5: Fairly poor 6.51-7.25: Poor 7.26-10: Very poor

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3 36 27 30 24 48 168

Site 2 Site # Description Location Sampling Date(s) Area Surveyed

2 River 19°39'39.96"N 72° 0'25.80"W September 12, 15, 2013 River 445 m Terrestrial 14 ha

Description Located at the southern edge of the PIC (closer to the SE corner) where the river enters the Park. Dirt banks with somewhat gravely to sandy bottom. Widest part of river was approximately 25 m with a maximum depth of approximately 1 m. Banks as high as 10 m with trash lines to the top. Trash line at the level of the terrace surface indicates that the sites near the river could be periodically/sporadically flooded.

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Site 2 - Habitat Assessment Site # Habitat Assessment

9/15/13

3pm

score 6 11 2 4 8

max possible 20 20 20 20 20

9 13 3 3 3 2 9 9 82

20 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 200

0.41 Fair

1

Family Biotic Index

Habitat Epifaunal cover Pool substrate Pool variability Sediment deposition Channel flow status Channel alteration Channel sinuosity Bank stability (left bank) Bank stability (right bank) Vegetative protection (left bank) Vegetative protection (right bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (left bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (right bank) Total score Habitat index

2

0.85 – 1.00 Reference Condition 0.65 – 0.84 Good Condition 0.35 – 0.64 Fair Condition 0.00 – 0.34 Poor Condition

Taxa Libellulidae Coenagrionidae Decapoda(Prawn) Decapoda(Prawn) Decapoda(Shrimp)

number 5 17 34 7 11

Baetidae Total

FBI

1 75

life stage larva larva immature adult adult very immature

biotic score 9 9 6 6 6 4

6.85 Poor

0-3.75: Excellent 3.76-4.25: very good 4.26-5.0: Good 5.01-5.75: Fair 5.76-6.5: Fairly poor 6.51-7.25: Poor 7.26-10: Very poor

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total 45 153 204 42 66 4 514

Site 3 Site # Description Location Sampling Date(s) Area Surveyed

3 River 19°40.350'N 72°00.270'W September 14, 15, 2013 River 335 m Terrestrial 7 ha

Description Located at the northern edge of the PIC (closer to the NE corner) where the river exits the PIC area. Alluvial mud banks with sandy bottom. Widest part of river was approximately 30 m with a maximum depth of approximately 0.5 m. Banks as high as 5 m with trash lines to the top. Trash line at the level of the terrace surface indicates that the sites near the river could periodically flood. Texture of soils is clay/silt, meaning, heavier than at the sites 1 and 2, with a higher water retention capacity and a lower drainage.

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Site 3 - Habitat Assessment Site # Habitat Assessment

3

9/15/13

2pm

Habitat Epifaunal cover Pool substrate Pool variability Sediment deposition Channel flow status Channel alteration Channel sinuosity Bank stability (left bank) Bank stability (right bank) Vegetative protection (left bank) Vegetative protection (right bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (left bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (right bank) Total score

score 6 10 8 5 8 7 5 3 3 5 5 9 9 83

max possible 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 10 10 10 10 10 10 200

Habitat index

0.415 Fair

Family Biotic Index

1

0.85 – 1.00 Reference Condition 0.65 – 0.84 Good Condition 0.35 – 0.64 Fair Condition 0.00 – 0.34 Poor Condition

Taxa Baetidae Gerridae Coenagrionidae Decapoda(Prawn Decapoda(Prawn Decapoda(Shrimp) Total

FBI

number 9 1 5 59 10 10 94

life stage larva larva larva immature adult adult

biotic score 9 9 6 6 6

5.6 Fair

0-3.75: Excellent 3.76-4.25: very good 4.26-5.0: Good 5.01-5.75: Fair 5.76-6.5: Fairly poor 6.51-7.25: Poor 7.26-10: Very poor

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total 0 0 45 354 60 66 525

Site 5 Site # Description Location Sampling Date(s) Area Surveyed

5 River 19°41.524'N 72°00.424'W September 13, 17, 2013 River 275 m Terrestrial 12 ha

Description Located just before the estuary at the northern end of the TdN River. Very low alluvial mud banks with clay/sandy bottom. Widest part of river was approximately 10 m with a maximum depth of approximately 1 m. At this level the river often floods the nearby lands as it begins to form the lower estuarine area and often changes course.

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Site 5 - Habitat Assessment Site # Habitat Assessment

9/13/13

score 3 8 2 3 17 12 7 4 4 5 6 10

max possible 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 10 10 10 10 10

10 91

10 200

0.455

1

noon Family Biotic Index

Habitat Epifaunal cover Pool substrate Pool variability Sediment deposition Channel flow status Channel alteration Channel sinuosity Bank stability (left bank) Bank stability (right bank) Vegetative protection (left bank) Vegetative protection (right bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (left bank) Riparian vegetative zone width (right bank) Total score Habitat index

5

Taxa Corduliidae Coenagrionidae bentback shrimp Decapod(Prawn) Decapod(Shrimp) Total

FBI

Fair 0.85 – 1.00 Reference Condition 0.65 – 0.84 Good Condition 0.35 – 0.64 Fair Condition 0.00 – 0.34 Poor Condition

number 1 5 4 4 32 46

life stage larva larva adult adult adult

biotic score 5 9 6 6 6

6.30 Fairly poor

0-3.75: Excellent 3.76-4.25: very good 4.26-5.0: Good 5.01-5.75: Fair 5.76-6.5: Fairly poor 6.51-7.25: Poor

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total 5 45 24 24 192 290

Site 6 Site # Description Location (a) (b) Sampling Date(s) Area Surveyed

6 Estuary 19°41.907'N, 72°00.931'W 19°41.884'N, 72°00.737'W September 15, 17, 2013 Terrestrial 5 ha Estuarine 200 m

Description Located at the two main outlets of the TdN River along the southern coast of Caracol Bay just to the east of the village of Caracol. 6a - Primarily sandy beach area giving way to mostly muddy benthic environment as one travels east. Visibility drops from approximately 0.5 m to
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