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The Northern Cape CBA Map identifies biodiversity priority areas, called Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) and Ecological Support Areas (ESAs) which, together with protected areas, are important for the persistence of a viable representative sample of ecosystems and species, as well as the long-term ecological functioning of the landscape as a whole.

The “reasons” layer is based on the planning units used in the spatial analysis, and provides a list of biodiversity and ecological features found in each planning unit, which contribute to the biodiversity target.

Suitability for purpose, accuracy or completeness is limited to best available data at the time of development and the department cannot be held responsible for any errors or legal liability pertaining the use of this data.

The Northern Cape Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) Map updates, revises and replaces all older systematic biodiversity plans and associated products for the province. These include the:

• Namakwa District Biodiversity Sector Plan

• Cape Fine-Scale Plan (only the extent of the areas in the Northern Cape i.e. Bokkeveld and Nieuwoudtville)

• Richtersveld Municipality Biodiversity Assessment

The identification of Critical Biodiversity Areas for the Northern Cape was undertaken using a Systematic Conservation Planning approach. Available data on biodiversity features (incorporating both pattern and process, and covering terrestrial and inland aquatic realms), their condition, current Protected Areas and Conservation Areas, and opportunities and constraints for effective conservation were collated. Priorities from existing plans such as the Namakwa District Biodiversity Plan, the Succulent Karoo Ecosystem Plan, National Estuary Priorities, and the National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas were incorporated. Targets for terrestrial ecosystems were based on established national targets, while targets used for other features were aligned with those used in other provincial planning processes. Marxan analysis was used to ensure that the required representation of biodiversity features was achieved in a spatially efficient manner which avoided incompatible land uses and activities where possible. The assessment approach and map categories are designed to be compatible with the Guideline Regarding the Determination of Bioregions and the Preparation and Publication of Bioregional Plans. Where possible, all targets are met in the identified set of CBAs. Note that the dataset can be considered fairly reliable for the formal protected area system, but is known to contain significant errors and omissions in the Informal Conservation Area system data.

For further information, please consult the technical report.

SANS 1878

FGDC-STD-001-1998