Objectives

The primary objectives of the tender are to:

• Establish and maintain a comprehensive aquatic biomonitoring programme within eThekwini to monitor impacts of municipal operations on aquatic ecosystems.
• Provide scientifically-based data to enable effective responses to directives and improve river management.
• Support the application for future Water Use Licences (WULs) and enhance compliance with existing licences through bi-annual biomonitoring and assessment.

Scope

The scope encompasses several key activities:

C3.2 Project Specifications

• Assessment of aquatic ecosystem health: Using SASS5 and IHAS protocols at up to 200 sites during wet and dry seasons, focusing on sites around wastewater treatment works and major pump stations.
• Benthic Diatom Sampling & Analysis: Collect samples to evaluate algal health and nutrient enrichment.
• Water Quality Analysis: Collect surface water samples for laboratory testing of physico-chemical, microbiological, and metal parameters, aligned with South African Water Quality Guidelines.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Interpret and report on biomonitoring data biannually, including comprehensive annual reports and a final consolidated report at project end.
• QA/QC Oversight: Independent third-party review of sampling, analysis, and data processing for approximately 10% of sites.
• Meetings & Safety: Regular project meetings and comprehensive health & safety management.
• Contract Duration: 36 months, with all work completed within this period.

Annexures & Site Maps

• Includes standard tender conditions, professional services contract, maps of biomonitoring sites, and sampling points list.

Technical Requirements

• Sampling & Analysis: Conduct SASS5, IHAS, benthic diatom, and water quality sampling at designated sites, adhering to national and international standards.
• Data Management: Analyze, interpret, and report findings supporting regulatory compliance and environmental management.
• Quality Assurance: Implement independent QA/QC oversight for data reliability.
• Personnel: Maintain a SACNASP-registered aquatic scientist with SASS5 accreditation throughout the project.
• Standards & Compliance: Follow all relevant national and international standards, including environmental legislation and water quality guidelines.

Skills Requirements

• Technical Expertise: Proven experience in aquatic biomonitoring, water quality analysis, and environmental assessment, especially using SASS5 and IHAS protocols.
• Scientific Qualification: A postgraduate qualification in natural sciences, with accreditation (e.g., SACNASP registration) and relevant project experience.
• Project Management: Ability to plan, execute, and report on complex environmental monitoring projects over a 36-month period.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Strong skills in interpreting ecological and water quality data, with capacity to produce comprehensive technical reports.
• Quality Control & Oversight: Experience in independent QA/QC processes for environmental data.
• Health & Safety: Ability to develop and implement health and safety plans for field activities.