National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2023 (GoN. 3010 of 2023)

80 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 NO. 3010 DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT 3 February 2023 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: BIODIVERSITY ACT, 2004 (ACT NO. 10 OF 2004) THE NATIONAL NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ELEPHANTS IN SOUTH AFRICA I, Barbara Dallas Creecy, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, hereby issue the Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa in terms of section 9(1 )(a) and (c) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), as set out in the Schedule hereto. BARBARA DALLAS CREECY MINISTER OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT T�� gazette 1s also available free <?nline at � '. gpwonllne.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 SCHEDULE TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 INTERPRETATION, PURPOSE ANO APPLICATION 1. Definitions 2. Purpose and application 3. Guiding principles CHAPTER2 GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF ELEPHANTS Part 1 General provisions 4. Restricted activities 5. Introduction, keeping or handling of elephants 6. Management plans 7. Initial assessment 8. Duty of care 9. Adequate enclosure 10. Administration of scheduled substances and sedation 11. Capture of elephants 12. Translocation, import and export of elephants 13. Release camps Part2 Management of wild elephants 14. Composition of wild elephant populations 15. Management of wild elephant populations 16. Establishment of new populations of wild elephants 17. Contraception of wild elephants 18. Range manipulation 19 Culling 20. Hunting of elephants 21. Hunting methods Part3 Hunting Part4 Elephants in controlled environments 22. Minimum standards pertaining to elephants in a controlled environment 23. Keeping elephants in captivity 24. Registration of captive facilities for elephants 25. Contraception of captive elephants Thi~ ~azelle is aj~e>-available free online at www.gpwonline.co.za No. 47984 81 82 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 Part 5 Escaped or Roaming Elephants 26. Escaped elephants 27. Roaming elephants 28. Research Part& General 29. Repeal of the National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2008 30. Transitional provisions 31. Short titfe and commencement ANNEXURES Annexure f Management plans for wild elephants Annexure II Management plans for captive elephants Annexure Ill Security-when dealing with wild elephants Annexure IV Requirements for release camps Annexure V Electrification of perimeter fences Annexure VI Flow diagram relating to management options CHAPTER 1 INTERPRETATION, PURPOSE AND APPLICATION Definitions 1. fn these Norms and Standards, a word or expression, or any derivative or other grammatical form of such word or expression, to which a meaning has been assigned in the Biodiversity Act, has the same meaning and, unless the context indicates otherwise- "adaptlve management" means an iterative process of interventions to achieve management plan objectives in the face of uncertainty through development of an expectation of how the system may respond to a considered and planned intervention, implementation thereof, monitoring the outoomes, adapting· management interventions and/or expectations thereby allowing continued improvement through learning; "applicable legislation" means-- (a} the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003); (b} the Nationaf Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004); (c) any regulations issued in terms of section 97 of the Biodiversity Act or referred to in section 49 of the Protected Areas Act, which apply to the implementation of these Nonns and Standards; (d) any Norms and Standards issued in terms of the Biodiversity Act that may apply to the management of elephants in South Africa; (e) any other relevant Act that may be applicable to the management of elephants, including, but not limited to, the following Acts: (i) Animals Protection Act, 1962 (Act No. 71 of 1962}; (ii) Performing Animals Protection Act, 1935 (Act No. 24 of 1935); (iii) Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965 (Act No. 101 of 1965); and ~~~~ g~ette ls also available free 6nllrie-ai www.gpwonllrie.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 83 (iv) Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act, 1982 (Act No. 19 of 1982); (f) provincial conservation legislation; or (g) Code of Practice for the Translocation of Certain Wild Herbivore (SABS 0331 ); "Biodiversity Act" means the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of2004); "captive elephant" means an elephant that is not a wild elephant; "captive facility" means a rehabilitation facility, commercial exhibition facility, temporary holding facility or sanctuary; "capture" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "commercial exhibition facility" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "controlled environment' has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations, and includes a captive facility; "culling" has the meaning as having been defined by the TOPS Regulations; "damage-causing animal" has the same meaning as having been defined by the TOPS Regulatfons: "destroy" means to intentionally kill an elephant for management purposes; "elephant" means a wild or captive elephant of the species Loxodonta africana; "elephant population" means all elephants living in a given defined area; ••escaped elephant" means- (a) a wild elephant that has escaped from an extensive wildlife system, but has not become a damage-causing animal; or (b) an elephant that has escaped from a controlled environment; "extensive wildlife system" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "GnRH vaccine" means Gonadotrophin releasing hormone vaccines; "hunt" has the meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "hunting client" has the same meaning as having been defined in the TOPS Regulations; "Issuing authority" has the same meaning as defined in the Biodiversity Act; "management authority" in relation to a protected area has the same meaning as defined in the Protected Areas Act; "management plan" means the management plan referred to in paragraph 6(1) relating to the management of elephants; ~!~ gazette is also available free online al ¥1W\V~~rJw~nll~~~o.:za 84 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 .,orphan calf" means an elephant calf- ( a} that has not been weaned yet and ls likely to be less than 4 years of age; (b) of which its mother has died or has pennanently abandoned it; (c) that has been rejected by the elephant population of which it forms part; and (d) that is likely to die if it Is not taken Into captivity; "professional hunter'' has the same meaning as defined by the TOPS Regulations; "professional natural scientist" has the same meaning as defined in the Natural Scientific Professions Act, 2003 (Act No. 27 of 2003); ''Protected Areas Act" means the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, 2003 (Act No. 57 of 2003); "PZP vaccine" means porcine zona pellucida vaccine; "quarantine purposes" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "registered game farm" means a game farm registered in tenns of the TOPS Regulations; "rehabilitation facility'' has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "rehabilitation" means- (a) the treatment and recovery of a sick or injured elephant; (b) the rearing of an orphan calf for the purpose of releasing it onto an extensive wildlife system as soon as possible; or (c) the preparation of an elephant or group of elephants that have been kept in a controlled environment for purposes other than temporary captivity, for later release onto an extensive wildlife system; "repealed Norms and Standards" means the Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, published under Government Notice R.251 in Government Gazette 30833 of 29 February 2008; "responsible person" means the owner or manager of an elephant, the owner or manager of the land on which an elephant normally ranges or the facility in which an elephant is kept, or the management authority of a protected area on which elephants normally range; "roaming elephant" means an elephant- (a) from a known or unknown locality in respect of which the responsible person cannot readily be determined; or (b) roaming across an international boundary from a neighbouring country into the Republic; .,scheduled substance" means a medicine or other substance prescribed under section 22A of the Medicines and Related SUbstances Act, 1965 (Act No.101 of 1965); "sanctuary" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; This gazette is also ava1labie free onllne at www.gpwoiillne.co.za -- -- - ---- ··-·- ···-··- ·· • - ... , . .... ··-·- -· - .... STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 85 "social unit" means the basic unit of elephants that constitutes a matriarch with her dependent offspring, her adult daughters and their dependent offspring, and other related or bonded adult females that spend the majority of their lime in close proximity and coordinate their behaviour and movement patterns; "temporary captivity" means a wild elephant that is kept in a controlled environment for a short period of time for- (a) translocation, transfer or transport; {b) quarantine; (c) veterinary treatment; (d} rehabilitation, in the case of sick or injured elephants, or orphan calves; or {e) any other similar purpose; "temporary holding facility" has the same meaning as defined in the TOPS Regulations; "TOPS Regulations" means the regulations pertaining to listed threatened or protected terrestrial species and fresh water species promulgated in terms of section 97 of the Biodiversity Act; "translocation" means the process of capturing a live elephant at a particular location, the conveying or transporting of the elephant, and the release of the elephant in another location; "veterinarian" means a person registered with the South African Veterinary Council to operate as such; and "wild elephant" means an elephant that- {a) is in an extensive wildlife system; (b) has escaped from an extensive wildlife system; (c) originates from an extensive wildlife system but is in temporary captivity, pending release into an extensive wildlife system; or (d) a calf born in a captive facility from a wild elephant that is kept in temporary captivity. Purpose and application 2. (1) · The purpose of these Norms and Standards is to ensure that- (a) elephants are managed in the Republic in a way that- (i) ensures the long term survival of elephants within the ecosystems in which they occur or may occur in future; (ii) promotes broader biodiversity and socio-economic goals that are ecologically, socially and economically sustainable; (iii) does not disrupt the ecological integrity of the ecosystems in which elephants occur; (iv) enables the achievement of specific management objectives of the properties on which they occur; (v) ensures their sustainable consumptive and non-consumptive use: (vi) ensures their well-being and biologically healthy populations; (vii) recognises the necessary and persistent interplay between ethics, the well-being of elephants and conservation, and human well-being; and {viii) recognises their sentient nature, highly organised social structure and ability to communicate; and (b) the management of elephants is regulated- (i} in a way that- (aa) is uniform across the Republic; and T!J~ !Jazeite 1s also available free online ai ·www.pwonllne.co.za 86 No.47984 (ii) (2) (3) (4) (5) GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (bb} takes into account the Republic's intemational obligations in terms of international agreements on biodiversity management binding on the Republic; and in accordance with national policies on biodiversity management and ecologically sustainable development. These Norms and Standards are informed by the principles contained in paragraph 3. The provisions of these Norms and Standards apply to the management of elephants wherever they occur within the Republic, regardless of whether the elephants are wild elephants or captive elephants. The provisions of these Norms and Standards do not absolve a person from complying with the requirements of any other applicable legislation and must be applied alongside the provisions of such other applicable legislation. The provisions of these Norms and Standards must be interpreted alongside the provisions of the TOPS Regulations. Guiding Principles 3. Any person executing a function or exercising a power or carrying out an activity that relates, directly or indirectly, to an elephant must do so with regard to the following principles: (a} elephants are intelligent, have strong family bonds and operate within highly socialised groups, Disruption of these groups on properties where they occur, whether such properties are extensive wildlife systems or controlled environments, as a result of management interventions should therefore be avoided, or minimised when it is not possible to avoid disruption; (b) while it is necessary to recognise the charismatic and iconic status of elephants and the strong local and international support for their protection, proper regard must be given to the impacts of elephants on biodiversity and people living in proximity to elephants; (c) elephants are recognised engineers of habitat change and their presence or absence has a criUcal effect on the way in which ecosystems funcUon; (d) the movement of elephants throughout their natural distribution range is disrupted by the activities of people; (e) careful conservation management has led to the significant growth of elephant populations and human intervention may be necessary to ensure that any future growth occurs in a manner that does not result in the loss of biodiversity, ecosystem functions and resilience, or human life, or compromising key management objectives for the properties on which they occur; (f) elephants often exist in close proximity to people, with the result that the elephants potentially pose a threat to the well-being of people and management measures must endeavour to limit these threats; (g) measures to manage elephants must be scientifically-based, and where the available scientific information is insufficient, adaptive management forms the cornerstone of the management of elephants and adaptive decision-making tools should be adopted; (h) management interventions must- (i) be based on measures to avoid stress and disturbance to elephants; and (ii) take into account the social structure of elephants; (i) where lethal measures are necessary to manage an elephant or group of elephants or to manage the size of elephant populations, these should be undertaken with caution and after due consideration of all other management options; STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 87 0) while reasonable efforts should be made to ensure that elephants continue to pfay an important role in an already well-established nature-based tourism sector this should not occur in an inappropriate, inhumane or unethical form or manner; (k) in the context of objective--based management of complex ecological systems, elephants should not be accorded preference over other elements of biodiversity; (I) every reasonable effort must be made to safeguard elephants from abuse and neglect; and (m) elephant populations in the wild should be managed in the context of objective-based management of the complex ecosystems in which they occur. CHAPTER2 GENERAL MANAGEMENT OF ELEPHANTS Part 1 General Provisions Restricted activities 4. (1) No restricted activity involving an elephant may be carried out without- (a) a permit issued in terms of the Biodiversity Act; and (b) an approved management plan referred to in paragraph 6. (2) When a person carries out any restricted activity in terms of a permit referred to in subparagraph (1 )(a) or implements any management intervention, he or she must- (a) carry out such restricted activity or implement such management intervention in accordance with the approved management plan referred to in subparagraph (1)(b); and (b} comply with the provisions of these Norms and Standards and any other applicable legislation. Introduction or keeping of elephants 5. (1) A wild elephant may not be introduced into a controlled environment for the purpose of keeping it in such controlled environment, except- (a) in the circumstances referred to in paragraph 11(b)(i); or (b) if the introduction is necessary for the purpose of temporary captivity. (2) An elephant may be kept in the following circumstances: (a) a wild elephant that ranges In an extensive wildlife system; (b) a wild elephant kept in temporary captivity; (c) a captive elephant kept in a controlled environment; (d) an ill or injured elephant or an orphan calf kept in a rehabilitation facility; or (e) an orphan calf that could not be rehabilitated successfully into an extensive wildlife system, and is therefore kept in a sanctuary. Management plans 6. (1) The responsible person must- (a) prepare a management plan- (i) in the case of wild elephants, with the assistance of a professional natural scientist who has adequate knowledge and experience in matters relating to elephant management; or (ii} in the case of a captive elephant, with the assistance of a veterinarian or an elephant welfare specialist; and (b} submit the management plan to the relevant issuing authority for approval. (2) A management plan must- This gazette is also available free online at www.ppwonllne.co.za 88 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (a) contain the information set out in- {i) Annexure I in respect of wild elephants; or (ii) Annexure ll in respect of a captive elephant; (b) in addition to the information set out In Annexure I, contain an introduction assessment referred to in paragraph 7, in respect of the introduction of elephants into an extensive wildlife system; (c) take into consideration the principles contained in paragraph 3; (d) be consistent with any biodiversity management plan developed in terms of section 43 of the Biodiversity Act, a management plan developed in terms of section 39 of the Protected Areas Act, or a management plan in relation to a transfrontier conservation area; (e) identify the potential for conflict between people and elephants in or on the borders of the area of enclosure and provide for emergency plans in the event of the escape of an elephant, including measures to deal with such an emergency; and (f) identify interventions likely to be made and management measures likely to be adopted, based on the principle of adaptive management. (3) When the issuing authority receives the management plan, it must consider the information and- (a) if all relevant information is provided, approve the management plan within 60 working days of receiving the information contemplated in subparagraph (2); or {b) request the relevant additional or outstanding information it deems necessary, and upon receipt of the outstanding information, approve the management plan within 60 working days of receiving the additional or outstanding information. (4) The issuing authority may appoint a panel of specialists, of whom at least one member must be a professional natural scientist who has adequate knowledge and experience in matters relating to elephant management, to assist with the evaluation of the management plan, or to make recommendations thereon to the relevant issuing authority. (5) Notwithstanding subparagraph (1 )(b), a management plan in respect of the management of elephants in a protected area may be developed as part of a management plan for a protected area in terms of section 39(2) of the Protected Areas Act, in which case such management plan must- (a) contain the information referred to in subparagraph (2); and (b) be approved by the Minister or the MEC, as the case may be. (6) A management plan referred to in subparagraph (1) that has been approved by the relevant issuing authority In respect of elephants occurring in a protected area, may be incorporated into the management plan referred to in subparagraph (5), of that protected area. (7) Notwithstanding paragraph 4(2)(a), if the responsible person must carry out a restricted activity that is a required management intervention in respect of his or her elephants, but such restricted activity has not been included in the approved management plan, the issuing authority may nevertheless issue a permit for the carrying out of such restricted activity, except for culling, provided that- {a) the intervention is necessary and appropriate for the achievement of the objectives of the controlled environment or extensive wildlife system to which the management plan relates; and (b) the carrying out of the restricted activity conforms with the guiding principles set out in paragraph 3. T hi s gazette is also available free online ~• www.51pwonllne.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 89 (8) An approved management plan must be reviewed and updated with the assistance of a professional natural scientist, at least every 10 years from the date of approval thereof. (9) An updated management plan must contain- (a) the infonnation referred to in subparagraph (2); or (b) the following infonnation: (i) description of the elephant population; (ii) the objectives of the property to which the management plan relates; (iii) the contribution of the objectives referred to in subitem (ii) to the national conservation objectives; (iv) risks or constraints to achieve the objectives referred to in subitem {ii); (v) extent or success in achieving the objectives referred to in subitem (b)(ii); (vi) maximising the contribution of the elephant population to the objectives referred to in item (b)(ii); (vii) risks related to management interventions involving the elephant population; and (viii) mitigation of the intervention risks referred to in subitem (vii}. (10) If any information in respect of the approved management plan changes prior to the date of its compulsory review referred to in subparagraph (8), the responsible person must- (a) notify the relevant issuing authority thereof in writing, if such change is not substantial; or {b} amend the approved management plan, if such change is substantial or involves any change to the management objectives of the property to which the management plan relates. (11) The responsible person- (a) must submit the amendment referred to in subparagraph 10(b) to the relevant issuing authority for approval; and (b) may submit such amendment as an amended management plan or as an annexure to the approved management plan. (12) In the event that the change in information contemplated in subparagraph (10) involves a change in ownership of the property to which the approved management plan relates- (a} the responsible person in respect of the approved management plan must notify the relevant issuing authority in writing of such change in ownership; and (b} the new owner of such property- (i) may sign the existing approved management plan in agreement that he or she assumes responsibility for the elephants in accordance with the existing approved management plan; or (ii) must submit a new management plan to the relevant issuing authority for approval. Introduction assessment 7. An assessment in respect of the introduction of elephants into an extensive wildlife system must- (a) consider the potential impact of the elephants on any existing elephants, the biodiversity of the area and structure of the habitat into which the population is to be introduced; (b} take into account- (i) the availability of adequate food plants; (ii) the availability of adequate shelter; (iii) the availability of adequate water for drinking and bathing; (iv) the size of the land available to the population; and Thi~ gazette is also available free online at www.gpwonUne.e1J.u 90 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (v} any social or behavioural impacts on the elephants to be introduced; and (c) be based on the following population parameters- (i) a social unit; (ii) the need to introduce one or more adult bulls; (iii) an indication of the initial density for the elephant population, which may not exceed 50% of the recommended maximum population density, in respect of the habitat into which the population is to be introduced; (d} determine if the responsible person can provide for the physical, physiological, social and natural behavioural needs, and the safety and security of the elephant; and (e} determine if the responsible person will meet and be capable of meeting the long-term financial commitments of owning or managing elephants. Duty of care 8. (1) The responsible person must- (a) ensure that appropriate veterinary care is provided when necessary; (b) remain abreast with new monitoring and research information on the management of elephants, especially captive elephants; (c} provide for the safety of people, including guests and staff, interacting with the elephants in accordance with the requirements of Annexure Ill; and (d) not neglect or abuse, or allow any neglect or abuse, of the elephant. (2) The responsible person in respect of an extensive wildlife system, must- (a) provide for an ongoing assessment of the impact of the elephants on the habitat and ecological function of the area in which the elephants occur; (b) report changes beyond acceptable limits to the habitat as a result of elephant impact, as soon as they occur, to the relevant issuing authority; and (c) deploy the necessary management interventions when the elephants are altering the habitat beyond acceptable limits. (3) The responsible person must report the following information to the relevant issuing authority: (a) at least every 5 years, the information in respect of the ongoing assessment referred to in subparagraph (2)(a); and (b) in accordance with the time frames prescribed in the TOPS Regulations- {i) the restricted activities carried out in terms of the permit referred to in paragraph 4(1); and (ii) an estimate of the total number of elephants kept on the property at the time of reporting, and the number of unnatural mortalities of elephants during the reporting period. (4) The Department must develop a template and indicators for the purpose of reporting the information referred to in subparagraph (2)(a). (5) The Department must establish and maintain a national database of all elephants kept in a controlled environment or an extensive wildlife system. Adequate enclosure 9. (1) If an elephant is kept in an extensive wildlife system, such extensive wildlife system should be adequately enclosed. STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 91 {2) If an elephant fs kept in a controlled environment, such controlled environment must be adequately enclosed. (3) A controlled environment or an extensive wildlife system wm be deemed adequately enclosed if a perimeter fence that meels the minimum standard referred to in subparagraph (4), has been erected around it. (4) The minimum standard for a perimeter fence is- (a) a height of 1.8m; and (b) electrified on the side occupied by the elephant in accordance with the requirements of Annexure V. (5) The responsible person must properly maintain the perimeter fence and must strive to have it fully functional at all times. Administering of scheduled substances and sedation 10. (1) An elephant may be--- (a) immobilised, only- (i) to carry out a disease control procedure, for scientific research or for management purposes; (ii) for treatment by a veterinarian; or (iii) to translocate or transport the elephant; and (b) sedated, only- (i) during transportation, or prior to release after transportation; or (ii) if circumstances necessitate sedation of the elephant to ensure its well-being, subject to advice of a veterinarian. (2) The administration of scheduled substances for the purpose of immobilisation or sedation, may be carried out from a motorised vehicle or aircraft. Capture of elephants 11. A wild elephant may be captured in the following circumstances only: (a} for inlroduction into another extensive wildlife system, in accordance with paragraph 12(2)(a) and (b); (b} for introduction into a captive facility- (i) in exceptional circumstances with the approval of the Minister, including but not limited to scientific or research purposes or in terms of an international agreement, provided that- (aa) such inlrocluction promotes the conservation of elephants; and (bb) is in the best interest of the elephant; (c) for introduction into a temporary holding facility for purposes of temporary captfvlty; or (d) for introduction into a rehabilitation facility, if- (i) in the case of a sick or injured elephant, it is for treatment and recovery purposes and subsequent release into the same extensive wildlife system which the elephant has been captured from, to the exlent possible; or (ii} it is an orphan calf captured, for the purposes of rearing and subsequent release into an extensive wildlife system. Translocation, import and export of elephants 12. (1) A wild elephant may not be translocated if it- Th~~ gazette is also available free oniine-at www.qpwonllne.co.za 92 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (a} is intended to be kept in a controlled environment, other than in terms of paragraph 5(2) and in accordance with subparagraph (2); (b) has a history of crop raiding, fence breaking, damaging property or aggression towards humans or livestock- (i) to an area where there is a risk of damage from similar behaviour; and {ii) such risk cannot be mitigated; or (c} has previously been translocated, except under extraordinary circumstances, which include but are not limited to, the following: (i} for the purpose of reducing the population size as an alternative to culling; (ii) if it is in the best interest of the national elephant population; (iii) if it is in the best interest of the affected population or population at risk; or (iv) in the case of a change in land ownership of land use. (2) A wild elephant may be translocated, only if it is- (a) part of a social unit, and- (i) the entire social unit is trans!ocated; and (ii) the calves are more than 2 months old; (b) a bull to be introduced to an area where- (i) there is an existing social unit that has successfully established a home range for a period of three months; or (ii) a social group is intended to be introduced together with the bull or subsequent to the successful establishment of the bull; or (c} for purposes of temporary captivity. (3) If elephants are captured within a protected area for the purpose of translocation, or to be introduced into a protected area, the capture or introduction, as the case may be, must be in accordance with an approved management plan for the protected area involved. (4) Immediately prior to offloading into a release camp, the matriarch, other adults and juveniles must, if necessary, be sedated. (5) No wild or captive elephant may be- (a) imported into the Republic; or (b) exported from the Republic, for the purposes of keeping it in a controlled environment, except in terms of paragraph 11 (b)(i), or in terms of subparagraph (6). (6) Captive elephants which are part of a bona fide circus may be temporarily imported or exported for a limited, specified period, not exceeding the period of performance, for the sole purpose of use in the circus. Release camps 13. (1) If it is necessary to release an elephant into a release camp at the point of destination subsequent to its translocation, such release camp must conform to the requirements of Annexure IV. (2) Except for the required management actions and in an emergency, there must be no interaction between a human and an elephant whilst the elephant is in a release camp. (3) An elephant may not be kept in a release camp for a period exceeding 6 months. This gazette isalso available free online at www.51e.wonHne.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 93 (4) Elephants are highly social animals and, other than in extraordinary circumstances, should not be housed separately from all of the other members of their immediate family. {5) Subparagraph (3) does not apply in the case of an elephant in quarantine, or for veterinary treatment as prescribed by a veterinarian. Part2 Management of WIid Elephants Composition of wild elephant populations 14. (1) An elephant population in an extensive wildlife system must be managed with proper regard for- (a) the highly social nature of elephants; (b) the organised matriarchal system in which they normally operate; (c) the hierarchical nature of elephant society; {d) the social structure of a population, of which the smallest unit is a social unit, led by a matriarch; (e) the existence of adult bulls alone or in a bond group outside of the social unit; and (f) the role of adult bulls in dominating and controlling juvenile males. (2) Bull elephants of the age of twenty-five years or older must be introduced into areas where the only male elephants present are juvenile bulls. Management of wild elephant populations 15. (1) Should it become necessary, within the objectives of the area concerned as indicated in the approved management plan, to manage the size, the composition or the rate of growth of a wild elephant population, the responsible person must use one or a combination of the following management options: (a) contraception in tenns of paragraph 17; (b) range manipulation in terms of paragraph 18; {c) translocation in tenns of paragraph 12; (d) introduction of efephants in terms of paragraphs 5 and 16; (e) hunting in terms of paragraphs 20 and 21; or (f) culling in terms of paragraph 19, as well as in terms of the TOPS Regulations. (2} Should it become necessary, within the objectives of the area concerned as provided for in the approved management plan, to manage the spatial distribution of a wild elephant population within the boundaries of the area, the responsible person must use one or a combination of the following management options: (a) contraception in terms of paragraph 17; (b) range manipulation in terms of paragraph 18; (c} translocation in terms of paragraph 12; or (d) introduction of elephants in terms of paragraph 5 and paragraph 16. (3) The flow diagram in Annexure VI should be used as a guideline to determine the appropriate option. Establishment of new populations of wild elephants 16. (1) A new population of wild elephants may be established by the- (a) translocation of a social unit to an extensive wildlife system, from an existing population of wild elephants; or 94 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (b) introduction of captive elephants into an extensive wildlife system, provided that such introduction and rehabilitation of the elephants at the new destination are done under the supervision of a person who has adequate experience in the rehabilitation of elephants. (2) conditions: A new population of wild elephants may be established subject to the following (a) the prior assessment of the extensive wildlife system where the new population is to be introduced- (i) to ensure that it meets the spatial requirement, and most of the other ecological requirements, of the population to be established; and (ii) to ensure the safety and security of the population to be introduced; (b) adequate enclosure in terms of paragraph 9; (c) stipulation of the initial population structures, taking into account- (i) the matriarchal society of the animals; (ii) the initial population should be a social unit; and {iii) that adult bulls may be introduced- (aa) first, but only if a social unit is intended to be introduced subsequent to the successful establishment of the bull; (bb) once the social unit has successfully established a home range, or (cc) at the same time as introducing the social unit; (e} written notification of the intended establishment to adjacent landowners, communities and any other person who may be directly affected by the intended establishment and requesting written comments within a period of thirty days; and (f) the issuing of a permit by the relevant issuing authority. Contraception of wild elephants 17. (1) The responsible person undertaking a contraception programme to control the size of a wild elephant population by reducing the rate of reproduction, must take into account that the use of immunocontraceptive vaccines is not effective in providing immediate reduction in the size of the elephant population. (2) lmmunocontraceptive vaccines-- (a) include the use of PZP vaccines; (b) must be administered by a veterinarian; and (c) may be applied from the air or from the ground. {3) PZP immunocontraceptive vaccines-- (a) may be used for the purpose of population control in respect of wild female elephants; (b} can be applied across a broad age range of females; and (c) does not require sedation or immobilization of target females. (4) GnRH immunocontraceptive vaccines should not be used in respect of wild male or female elephants, until more scientific information becomes available. (5) Any causes of non-testosterone aggressive behaviour in wild male elephants should be identified and mitigated. (6) The efficacy and behavioural effects of immunocontraceptive vaccines on individual elephants, breeding units and elephant populations must, to the extent possible, be monitored on an ongoing basis. !~~ gazette is also available free online at www.gpwoolloe.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 95 (7) The responsible person requiring vasectomy procedures to be undertaken in respect of wild elephant bulls must take into account that- (a) surgical and laparoscopic vasectomies are not effective in providing immediate reduction in the size of the elephant population; and (b} that all breeding bulls should be treated to prevent unintended breeding. (8) Vasectomies- (a) are complex, highly invasive and irreversible; (b) should be considered only in small wild elephant populations where no alternative non-lethal option is feasible; and (c) must be performed by veterinarians. (9) Side effects of vasectomies on male elephants, and to the extent possible their effects on female elephants, must be monitored on an ongoing basis. Range manipulation 18. The movement of an elephant or group of elephants in the area in which it normally ranges may be altered by using one or a combination of the following methods, without compromising biodiversity objectives- (a) management of the water supply of the elephants; (b) provision of artificial feed; (c) the controlled use of fire in appropriate situations; (d) preventing the elephants from entering or leaving a particular area of the land, by erecting enclosure fences or exclosure fences; (e) the creation of corridors of movement between different areas; (f) the expansion of the range by acquisition of additional land; or (g) non-invasive disturbance such as disturbance by bees, plantation of chillies, creation of noise, or any other similar non-lethal means of disturbance of such elephant or group of elephants. Culling 19. (1) Culling may be used to reduce the size of an elephant population subject to the following conditions: (a) culling may be used only after all other population management options referred to in paragraph 15, have been appropriately considered, evaluated and rejected; (b) culling may be undertaken only in terms of an approved culling plan; (c) an elephant may not be culled if it is part of a social unit, unless the entire social unit, including the matriarch, calves and all juveniles, is culled; (d) culling must be done with- (i) quick and humane methods; and (ii) in the case that a rifle is used- (aa) the rifle must be a minimum calibre of .375 H&H inches; and (bb) the bullet must be of a solid construction, with a minimum weight of 286 grains; and (e) !he use of suxamethonium (Scoline) is prohibited. (2) The responsible person must- (a) prepare the culling plan contemplated in subparagraph (1 )(b) with the assistance of a professional natural scientist who has adequate knowledge and experience in matters relating to elephant management; and This gazette is also avallable fre~ ~ i~j ~! ~~,w~onllne.co.za 96 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (b) submit the culling plan to the relevant issuing authority- (i) as part of the management plan referred to in paragraph 6; or (ii) as an annexure to the approved management plan, for approval. (3) The culling plan contemplated in subparagraph {1)(b) must- (a) contain the following infonnation relating to the culling operation- (i} evidence that the actual or projected elephant numbers at a specific location are incompatible with the agreed land use objectives set out in the management plan and that a reduction in population numbers is therefore necessary; (ii} evidence that all other population management options referred to in paragraph 15 have been rejected by the professional natural scientist referred to in subparagraph (2)(a) after appropriate consideration and evaluation; (iii) proposed number of elephants to be culled; (iv) proposed method of animal selection; (v} proposed time frames; (vi) proposed culling methods; and {vii) intended use of products; and (b} set out the conditions under which culling will take place and the manner in which the cull will be implemented. Part3 Hunting Hunting of elephants 20. (1) Only the following elephants may be hunted- (a) solitary males; or (b) damage-causing animals, in accordance with- (i) the provisions of the TOPS Regulations pertaining to damage-causing animals; and (ii} paragraphs 26 and 27 of these Nonns and Standards. (2) Notwithstanding subparagraph {1), an elephant- (a) may not be hunted in the immediate proximity of a social unit; or (b) to the extent possible, should not be hunted if it is a collared elephant. (3) A professional hunter registered with the issuing authority must be present for the full duration and supervise each hunt, if the hunter is a hunting client. Hunting methods 21. In addition to hunting methods that are prohibited in terms of the TOPS Regulations, the following methods or manners of hunting elephants are prohibited: (a) driving an elephant by any means; (b) hunting within 500 metres of a water hole or watering point; (c) using a pitfall; or (d) hunting with- (i) a rifle with a calibre of less than .375 H&H; and (ii) a bullet of a non-solid construction, or a bullet of a solid construction with a weight of less than 286 grains. rhis gazette is al§ ~vaifable free orifine at www~qpwonllne.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 97 Part4 Elephants In controlled environments Minimum standards pertaining to elephants in a controlled environment 22. The Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, publish an annexure to these Norms and Standards that provides for minimum standards for the management of elephants in a controlled environment. Keeping elephants in captivity 23. (1) An elephant may be kept in a controlled environment, only if- (a) it was already permitted to be kept in a controlled environment on the date that the repealed Norms and Standards came into effect; or {b) it was conceived naturalfy and born in a controlled environment to captive elephants as per the approved management plan. (2) A captive elephant may not be kept or handled without- ( a) the elephant being fitted with two permanent internal microchips or transponders; one lo be inserted at the base of the tail and one in front of the left shoulder; and (b) a system of identikits for the elephant. (3) The responsible person in respect of the keeping of a captive elephant must- (a) submit the serial numbers of the microchips or transponders referred to in subparagraph (2)(a} to the issuing authority, within 5 working days of inserting the microchips or transponders; and (b) update the system of identikits referred to in subparagraph (2)(b) of each elephant as changes in its tusks or ears occur, and must forward the photograph lo the relevant issuing authority for incorporation into the national register, within 5 working days of the photograph being taken. (4) The keeping of an elephant in a controlled environment is subject to the following: (a) a team of trained handlers twice the size of the group of elephants kept in such controlled environment must be allocated exclusively for the care and handling of the captive elephants; and (b) a minimum of two trained handlers per elephant must be present when human interaction with such elephants occurs. Registration of captive facilities for elephants 24. The responsible person in respect of a captive facility must- (a) register the facility, in the case that compulsory registration is required in terms of lhe TOPS Regulations, and keep a register or stud book of each captive elephant at the facility; (b) submit to the issuing authority a management plan complying with the requirements as set out in Annexure II, for approval; and (c) comply with any other relevant policy, procedure or framework that provides guidance for the management of elephants and that is approved by the Minister. Contraception of captive elephants 25. (1) The responsible person undertaking a contraception programme in a controlled environment to control the size of an elephant population by reducing the rate of reproduction, must take into account that the use of immunocontraceptive vaccines is not effective in providing immediate reduction in the size of the elephant population. (2) lmmunocontraceptive vaccines- (a) include the use of PZP and GnRH vaccines; This gazette is also ~"'~ilab~e fr~ online at www.gpwonllne.co.u 98 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (b) must be administered by a veterinarian; and (c) may be applied from the air or from the ground. (3) PZP immunocontraceptive vaccines- (a) may be used for the purpose of population control in respect or captive female elephants; (b) can be applied across a broad age range of captive females; and (c) does not require sedation or immobilization of target females. (4) GnRH imrnunocontraceptive vaccines- (a) should not be used in respect of captive female elephants, until more scientific information becomes available; (b) should be used only in respect of captive adult elephant bulls to supress testosterone-related aggressive behaviour; (c) should be used continuously, once introduced in respect of captive adult elephant bulls; and (d) does not require the immobilization of the target male elephant. (5) Any causes of non-testosterone aggressive behaviour in captive male elephants should be identified and mitigated. (6) The efficacy and behavioural effects of immunocontraceptive vaccines on individual elephants must be monitored on an ongoing basis. (7) The responsible person requiring vasectomy procedures to be undertaken in respect of captive elephant bulls must take into account that- (a) surgical and laparoscopic vasectomies are not effective in providing immediate reduction in the size of the elephant population; and (b) that all breeding bulls should be treated to prevent unintended breeding. (8) Vasectomies- (a) are complex, highly invasive and irreversible; (b) should be considered only where no alternative non-lethal option is feasible; and (c) must be performed by veterinarians. (9) Side effects of vasectomies on male elephants, and to the extent possible their effects on female elephants, must be monitored on an ongoing basis. Part 5 Escaped or Roaming Elephants Escaped elephants 26. (1) The obligation to manage an elephant that has escaped, whether from a protected area or an area other than a protected area, lies with the responsible person. (2) The relevant provincial conservation authority- (a) may, to the extent provided for in subparagraph (7), assume responsibility for the management of the escaped elephant; and (b) must, to the extent possible, contact the relevant research group if the elephant is a collared elephant, to provide the research group the opportunity to arrange for such elephant to be captured and returned to the property it has escaped from. 1:!1!S gazette is also available free Online at www.gpworiiine.co.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 99 (3) The responsible person must apply to the relevant issuing authority for a permit to- {a) capture the escaped elephant, or arrange for it to be captured, and (i) return it to the property it has escaped from; or (ii) transport it to another suitable extensive wildlife system; or (b) subject to the written approval of the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has escaped- (i) hunt the escaped elephant or arrange for it to be hunted; or (ii) destroy the escaped elephant or arrange for the escaped elephant to be destroyed. (4) Should the responsible person fail to apply for a permit to take steps referred to in subparagraph (3), within 48 hours of becoming aware or having been notified of the escape of his or her elephant, the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has escaped may- (a) apply for a permit to- (i) capture the escaped elephant and return it to its normal range; (ii} keep the e!ephant; (iii} hunt or arrange for the escaped elephant to be hunted; or (iv} destroy or have the escaped elephant destroyed; and {b) recover the cost incurred in terms of item (a)(i) or (iv) from the responsible person. (5) An application referred to in subparagraph (4) must be accompanied with proof that the responsible person has been notified that the elephant has escaped from its normal range, and of the area in which it is currently ranging. (6) The requirements contemplated in Paragraph 6 relating to a management plan to manage an escaped elephant does not apply to the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which an elephant has escaped, unless--- (a) the responsible person relinquishes ownership of the elephant in writing; and (b) owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which an elephant has escaped, intends to keep the elephant in terms of subparagraph (4)(a)(ii). (7) The relevant provincial conservation authority may take the steps it deems appropriate to manage the escaped elephant if- (a) notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraphs (3) or (4), it is of the view that the elephant poses an immediate threat to people or the elephant has become a damage-causing animal; (b) the responsible person fails to expeditiously take steps pursuant to a permit granted in terms of subparagraph (3); (c) the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has escaped fails to expeditiously take steps pursuant to a permit granted in terms of subparagraph (4); or {d} it otherwise determines that it is necessary to take such steps. Roaming elephants 27. (1) The obligation to manage a roaming elephant whose origin cannot readily be determined lies with the relevant provincial conservation authority or the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has roamed, in consultation with the provincial conservation authority. 100 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (2) The owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has roamed, must report such an incident to the issuing authority within 24 houJS of becoming aware of the roaming elephant. (3) The owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has roamed may- (a) apply for a permit to- (i) capture the roaming elephant or arrange for it to be captured; (ii) keep, or take possession of, the elephant, in which case such owner or manager must submit a management plan to the relevant issuing authority in accordance with paragraph 6, for approval; (iii) hunt or arrange for the roaming elephant to be hunted; or (iv) have the roaming elephant destroyed at his own cost; or (b) request that the issuing authority take responsibility for the roaming elephant. (4) The relevant provincial conservation authority is responsible to immediately take such steps as ii deems appropriate to manage the roaming elephant if- (a) notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph {3)(a), it is of the view that the elephant poses an immediate threat to people or the elephant has become a damage-causing animal; or (b) the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which the elephant has roamed requests the issuing authority to take responsibility for the elephant in terms of subparagraph (3)(b). (5) The issuing authority must take into account international agreements and management plans that may apply to transfrontier conservation areas, when considering a permit for the hunting or culling of a roaming elephant. (6) The requirement of paragraph 6(1) in respect of the management of a roaming elephant does not apply to the owner, manager or other person in control of the property onto which an elephant has roamed, unless he or she intends to keep the elephant in terms of subparagraph {3)(a)(ii). Part 6 General Research 28. (1) A method for the management of elephants that is not provided for, or that is not permissible, in terms of these Norms and Standards may nevertheless be performed, subject to the following conditions: (a) the perfonning of the method forms part of a scientific research project; and (b) the restricted activities that are necessary for the performing of the method, are carried out in compliance with paragraph 4(1)(a). (2) The research project contemplated in subparagraph (1)(a) must meet the following conditions: (a) the method must be aligned with the management objectives provided in the approved management plan in respect of the elephant population to which the research project relates; (b) the research project must have the aim of establishing the feasibility of including the method as a management intervention in these Nonns and Standards; (c) the research project must conform to the guiding principles set out in paragraph 3; (d) a project proposal must be approved by- ~-his gazette is also availa~~ ~~~ o-~-~~~l www.111>wonline.c0.za STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 101 (i) the relevant issuing authority; and (ii) an Animal Ethics Committee, which may be- (aa) a Health Research Ethics Committee registered with the National Health Research Ethics Council, which has been established in terms of the National Health Act, 2003 (Act No. 61 of 2003); or (bb) an accredited Animal Ethics Committee of a research organisation or Institution that confonns to the South African National Standard 10386: 2008 (as updated from time to time); prior to the commencement of the research project; (e) the results of the research project are intended to be published in a scientific journal recognised by the Department of Higher Education and Training for subsidy purposes; (~ the progress of the research project must be reported annually to the relevant issuing authority, and a copy of the research report must be provided to the issuing authority upon completion of the research project; and (g) the data of the research project must be stored in an appropriate data repository. Repeal of the National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2008 29. The National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2008, published under Government Notice No. 251 in Government Gazette No. 30833 of 29 February 2008, are hereby repealed. Transitional provisions 30. Anything done in terms of the repealed National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2008 published under Government Notice No. 251, in Government Gazette No. 30833 of 29 February 2008, and which can be done in terms of a provision of these Nonns and Standards, must be regarded as having been done in tenns of a provision of these Norms and Standards. Shorttitle and commencement 31. These Norms and Standards are called the National Norms and Standards for the Management of Elephants in South Africa, 2023, and take effect on 01 April 2023. This gazette is also available free· onlirie ai www.gpwonllne.co.za 102 No.47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 ANNEXUREI MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR WILD ELEPHANTS A management plan for a wild elephant shall contain at least all the following Information; Section A. General information and inventory 1. General 1.1 Names of owner and manager. 1.2 Postal address. 1.3 Telephone and fax numbers. 1.4 Farm name (including all registered farm names, numbers and portion numbers in the fenced area). 1.5 Precise extent of the property and the specific enclosure where the elephants will be kept. 1.6 Description of the land uses and activities on all neighbouring properties. Description of land uses must be specific such as irrigation farming. 1.7 Name, contact details, qualifications and experience in elephant management of a professional natural scientist or compiler of the plan or person who did the survey. 1.8 Proximity to settlements, rural communities and tribal land. 1.9 Information as to whether there is potential for enlarging the property. 1.10 Specifications of the perimeter fence. 1.11 Financial plan indicating the ability of the owner of the elephants to continuously manage the elephants. 2. Ecological 2.1 General climatic and hydrological data (e.g. rainfall, temperatures). 2.2 General description of the geology. 2.3 General description of the soils. 2.4 Detailed description of the vegetation. 2.5 Game species and numbers present on property. 2.6 Sensitive habitats and species. 2.7 Disturbed or degraded areas such as bush encroachment and soil erosion. 2.8 Description of all available water bodies and distribution thereof described. 2.9 Maps: (a) Location map. (b) Topographic map of property (boundary of farm(s) and camp(s), roads, water points, infrastructure, etc.). (c) Vegetation communities. Ecological information should be collected and analysed by an ecologist. Methods used should be scientific and described in detail. The scale of the maps should be at least 1-50 000. Section B. Management goals and objectives 3. Habitat 3.1 Veld condition monitoring methods and time schedules. 3.2 Rehabilitation programme for degraded areas. 3.3 Fire management plan. 3.4 Water provision. 3.5 Population management of other wildlife species. STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2 023 No. 47984 103 4. Information pertaining to elephants 4.1 Purpose of introduced elephant. 4.2 Number of elephants kept or to be introduced, and preferred population size to be maintained. 4.3 Public participation reports, where there is contractual arrangements between the management authority of a protected area and a private land owner(s). 4.4 Specifications for the release camp. 4.5 Interventions to manage elephant population size and elephant impact, and a culling plan if the management intervention involves culling. 4.6 If and how sex and age ratios will be manipulated. 4.7 Measures to prevent poaching. 4.8 Provision for adequate insurance. 4.9 Contingency plans (including contact details of responsible manager, veterinary practitioner and capture operator/s) to deal with- (a) elephant problems in the case of the fence being unable to contain the elephants, or in the case of an escaped elephant; (b) elephant problems in the case of the alteration of the habitat beyond acceptable limits; or (c) the fate of an elephant in the event of the death, insolvency or any other event that impairs the ability of the responsible person to care for the elephant. 4.10 Feeding scheme in case of a natural food supply shortfall. 4.11 Threat analysis and security plan. 4.12 Identification of the long-term population structure in view of the management objectives of the population. Section C lnfonnatlon to be provided after approval for the Introduction of elephants, but before a permit may be Issued 5. Details of the elephants 5.1 To the extent possible, the complete translocation history of each individual: (a) Origin of the elephants (e.g. location, habital, fencing and size of reserve/farm); (b) Previous locations where the elephants have been kept; and (c) The approximate age of the elephants and selection of elephants to be translocated {e.g. exposure to tourists, fences and boma). 5.2 Serial numbers of transponders (microchips) to be inserted where appropriate. 5.3 The management of the capture, transport and keeping in boma {including sedation) of elephants, as well as the name of the acting veterinary practitioner. Two hard copies of the management plan must be submitted to the relevant issuing authority. The applicant will be informed in writing if the plan has been accepted/rejected or if the plan has to be amended. 7:°!:1~~ gazette is also available free onlirieat ~ --pg~nllne.co.za 104 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 ANNEXURE II MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR CAPTIVE ELEPHANTS A management plan for captive elephants shall contain at least all of the following Information: Section A. General Information and inventory 1.1 Names of owner and manager. 1.2 Postal address. 1.3 Telephone and fax numbers. 1.4 Farm name (including all registered farm names, numbers and portion numbers in the fenced area). 1.5 Precise extent of the property and the specific enclosure details where the elephants will be kept. 1.6 Description of the land uses and activities on all neighbouring properties. Description of land uses must be specific such as irrigation farming. 1. 7 Name, contact details and qualifications of an ecologist, should one have been consulted, who did the survey. 1.8 Proximity to settlements, rural communities and tribal land. 1.9 Information as to whether there is potential for enlarging the property. 1.10 Specifications of the perimeter fence and / or adequate enclosure. 1.11 Financial plan to indicate the ability of the owner of the elephants to continuously manage the elephants. Section B. Specific information relating to elephants 2.1 Purpose of keeping captive elephants and proposed uses of the elephants. 2.2 Number of elephants kept, or to be introduced. 2.3 Projected elephant numbers for next 5, 10 and 20 years. 2.4 Control of elephant population sizes - management options to be used if required. 2.5 Proof of notification of neighbours. 2.6 Measures to prevent poaching, unnecessary and/or deliberate disturbances and harassing. 2.7 Provision for adequate insurance. 2.8 Contingency plans to deal with elephant problems (including contact details of responsible manager, veterinary practitioner and capture operator/s)• (a} in the case of the fence being unable to contain the elephants. (b} in the case of the alteration of the habitat beyond acceptable limits. 2.9 Description of housing facilities. 2.10 Description of activities, training methods and tools used. 2.11 Identification characteristics of individual elephants to be provided to the issuing authority within 30 days after approval. 2.12 Serial numbers of transponders (microchips or any other current form of tracking for elephants more than two (2} years old) to be inserted, to be provided to the issuing authority within 30 days after approval. 2.13 Description of provisions to minimise stress and trauma to the elephants. 2.14 Description of provisions to cater for the social structure of the elephants. 2.15 Description of projected growth patterns and measures for population management. 2.16 Description of provisions relating to veterinary care. 2.17 To the extent possible, the complete history of each individual: (a) Origin of the elephants (e.g. location, habitat, fencing and size of reserve/farm); (b) Previous locations where the elephants have been kept; and (c) The approximate age of the elephants. this gazette is also available free online at www.gpwonllne..cu..n STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 105 2.18 Emergency procedures describing the following: (a) Reactive and preventative procedures for elephants out of control, injured or sick elephants; (b) Personnel emergency procedures Including reactive and preventative procedures aimed at stabilizing elephants out of control and managing Injured staff, guests or elephants; and (c} Guest emergency procedures. 2.19 Contingency plan that deals with the fate of the elephant in the event of the death, insolvency or any other event that impairs the ability of the responsible person to care for the elephant. Two hard copies of the management plan must be submitted to the relevant issuing authority. The applicant will be informed in writing if the plan has been accepted/ rejected or if the plan has to be amended. °!:h~~ gazette is also avaiiabie free online at www.gpwonlhie.co.za 106 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 ANNEXURE Ill SECURITY - WHEN DEALING WITH WILD ELEPHANTS 1. Bephants are wild animals and can be very dangerous if not treated with respect and caution. 2. The responsibility of safe encounters with elephant lies entirely in the hands of responsible persons and the field guides. 3. High standards of guest and staff safety should be maintained at all times. 4. Guides should be adequately qualified and experienced to protect the guests. 5. The following are recommended specifically: • 5.1 All tourist facilities and amenities should be ring fenced with an electric fence, so should staff villages; 5.2 Where river frontage occurs an electrified cabled fence must be erected to keep elephant out of tourist camps; and 5.3 Fencing of sewage ponds and rubbish pits with electrified fence. 6. Regarding vehicles, the following is recommended: 6.1 Expanded mesh should be attached to vehicles to at least cover the height of the legs of guests and doors must be present in the cab to protect the driver and his passenger; 6.2 All vehicles must be reliable and in a good running mechanical condition and be fitted with adequate spare wheels and repair kits; 6.3 Functional radios are essential; 6.4 Well-prepared emergency action plan; 6.5 When guests drive on their own the following should be supplied: 6.5.1 Information on the potential dangers of elephants (i.e. cows with calves); 6.5.2 Information on how to identify, approach and behave near bulls in musth; and 6.5.3 Strict regulations of how to behave near wild elephants: (a) Not to drive off road; (b) Not to follow the elephants; (c} To respect the elephants at all times; (d) To always allow them the right of way; (e) To drive off slowly if they get too near; (f} Not to cut off their path especially when more than one vehicle present; (g) Not unnecessarily increase the noise emitted by the motor vehicle engine; and (h} Not to leave the vehicle. ANNEXURE IV REQUIREMENTS FOR RELEASE CAMPS [The purpose of the release camps Is to teach the elephants to respect electricity; and to enable the group to re-bond following the disruption of translocatlon.] 1. The release camp must- 1.1 be prepared well ahead of time; 1.2 be inspected and approved beforehand by the issuing authority; 1.3 be easily accessible by large, low-bed transport trucks with access roads able to adequately carry such vehicles, due consideration be given to all bridges and culverts and large trees; 1.4 be located adjacent to the centre of the protected area or registered game farm, to the extent possible; 1.5 have access and use of a water source; 1.6 be a minimum width of 100 metres; 1. 7 be a minimum area of two hectares for every six elephants; Thi~ gazette is also avaiiable free onifrie at www.gpWOnl104t.lXLll STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 107 1.8 have adequate clean drinking water; 1.9 include a possibility for mud-wallowing with a solid cement or rock floor and supplied with water to prevent small calves from becoming trapped; and 1.10 is sufficiently vegetated to provide security and shade for the elephants. 2. The fence of the release camp must- 2.1 have a minimum height of 2,4 metres; 2.2 be constructed using steel railway tracks lines or steel poles filled with concrete as uprights set in concrete ten metres apart; 2.3 have a minimum of five strands of steel cables, each having a minimum diameter of 16mm, one placed at ground level and thereafter at minimum intervals of 500mm. The cable must be strung on the inside of the poles except at the corners, where it must go around the outside of the comer post; 2.4 have a galvanised veldspan fence erected from ground level to the top of the fence with steel droppers, each having a minimum top width of 100mm, placed at intervals of one metre apart; 2.5 be electrified in the following manner: (i) five strands of wire; (ii) the offsets must be to the inside; (iii) a voltage of 6000 - 9000 V should be maintained; {iv) the bottom strand must be 300mm above ground level. The second strand must be 1,0m above ground level and the remaining strands are to be spaced approximately 500mm apart. The top strand must be placed at the top of the fence with an additional earth strand. Double offset brackets should be used for all strands, especially when bulls are introduced; (v) the offsets must be five metres apart to prevent the elephants from causing a short when they push against the fence; and (vi) if elephants are ranging on the property outside the release camp, it is essential that the paddock is also electrified with three strands on the outside. 2.6 where adult bulls are to be introduced, be reinforced with the following: {i) additional earthing that can be obtained by wetting the area directly inside the fence prior to the animals arriving; (ii) a second inner electric fence erected two metres inside the perimeter of the paddock fence using Y metal standards or using good quality offset brackets; (iii) spanning electrified strands across the corners of the release camp. It is advisable to construct a paddock of 2 hectares, so as to ensure that the elephants do not run through the fence in panic, and so that they have sufficient food during their stay. Additional re­ enforcement of the gate can be achieved by using horizontal steel poles; and 2.7 not be near large trees that the elephants may push onto the fence and cause a short. 3. The offloading ramp must- 3.1 be placed outside the fence; 3.2 be at least 2, 4m wide and 1m high; 3.3 have containing walls that are- (i) three metres high; (ii) reinforced; (iii) constructed with steel poles that are concreted into the ramp; and (iv) are sufficiently strong to prevent the elephants from pushing them over when off-loaded; and 3.4 have a gate that- (i) separates the offloading ramp from the release camp; T~}~ gazette is also avallable free ·online at www.gpwonllne.co.z:a 108 No. 47984 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 (ii) is constructed of heavy steel; (iii} is electrified when closed; (iv) is reinforced by thick horizontal poles pushed through steel brackets after the elephants have been offloaded; (v) is additionally reinforced if bulls are to be introduced; and (vi) is six metres wide; (vii) is of a sliding design; and (viii) can be opened remotely with a cable or rope, if necessary. 1:his gazette is also available free oniine at www:gk'tionilne.co'.~ STAATSKOERANT, 3 FEBRUARIE 2023 No. 47984 109 ANNEXUREV ELECTRIFICATION OF PERIMETER FENCES A perimeter fence to an area in which an elephant population is kept must be electrified in accordance with the following requirements: 1. The fence must have at least three strands of electrical wires that are structured in the following manner: 1.1 each strand must have a minimum diameter of 2.24mm; 1.2 a minimum of two electrified strands, one at 1.0 - 1.5 m and the other at the top. In situations where electrification cannot be relied on, the fence must be strong enough to contain elephants without electrification; 1.3 the second strand must be 1.5m above ground level with 225mm or 450mm double offset brackets; 1.4 the top strand must be on the top of fence with 450mm double offset brackets; and 1.5 an earth strand must be affixed to the double offset brackets 10cm on the inside of each live wire strand; ideally earth pegs should be every 100 to 200 metres apart to achieve minimum voltage. 2. A minimum voltage of 6000 V must be maintained on the whole perimeter. 3. Energisers must be large enough to maintain at least 6000 V over a distance of 8km and should not release less than 6 Joules. 4. Danger signs indicating electrified fencing and elephants must be erected on the fence at regular intervals and all likely polnts of human contact. 5. The perimeter fence should be kept clear of vegetation that could reduce the voltage along fence line. 6. The perimeter fence should be inspected on regular basis but preferably daily. ~i~ gazette is aiso avallable free online at www:·-- ·onllne.co.za 110 No. 47984 Management plan 0 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 3 FEBRUARY 2023 ANNEXURE VI~ FLOW DIAGRAM RELATING TO MANAGEMENT OPTIONS Non­ threatened +--- No action ( No- provide ) ~ Thfs gazette is also available free· ~~1~~ af~.gj »vonllne.co.za 0 0