Nkoliso Magona

I am currently employed as an Ecologist and Environmental Assessment Practitioner at Agreenco Environmental Projects, where I provide specialist ecological support on projects across South Africa. In my current role, I conduct environmental assessments, undertake ecological fieldwork, assess environmentally sensitive and endangered sites, facilitate public participation processes, and compile Restoration Plans and Alien Invasive Management Plans. I am responsible for integrating specialist study findings into broader environmental projects and strategic assessments, ensuring that practical, achievable mitigation measures and environmental management solutions are developed and implemented.

My responsibilities include project management, data review and analysis, identification and assessment of potential environmental impacts (both negative and beneficial), and ensuring that all reports are compiled in accordance with applicable environmental legislation and policy requirements. Through undertaking numerous environmental management studies, I have developed a strong working knowledge of South African environmental legislation and compliance frameworks. I have worked on projects for both the public and private sectors, including compliance monitoring and advisory services, electricity generation and transmission developments, linear infrastructure projects, wastewater treatment works (WWTWs) and sewage treatment plants (STPs), as well as residential, industrial, and agricultural developments.

Environmental Scientist: Biodiversity - Agreenco Environmental Projects - South Africa

(2024-09)

• Project management
• Terrestrial faunal and floral Biodiversity assessments
• Rehabilitation monitoring
• Biodiversity and Environmental legislation
• Integrated environmental management
• Integrated invasive species management
• Priority species relocation plans
• Alien invasive plant assessments
• TOPS assessment and relocation plans
• GIS mapping

Ecologist specialist, Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) and Environmental Compliance Officer (ECO) - Bokamoso Landscape Architects & Environmental Consultants - South Africa

(2018-09 - 2024-08)

• Conduct Flora and Fauna Assessments
• Interpreting conservation plans to inform local and regional planning
• Act as Environmental Control Officer
• Public participation assistant
• Wetland and Aquatic studies assistant
• E-WUL applications assistant
• Scientific data collection
• Search, Rescue and Relocation Plans
• Basic Assessment Reports

Internship (Entomology) - National Research Foundation (NRF) - South Africa

(2018-04 - 2018-08)

• Manage Biosecurity Enforcement for Alien arthropod introduced into South Africa in relation to the provisions of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act with its associated regulations and norms and standards
• Visit port of entry and exit borders in South Africa to assess pathways of alien arthropods into South Africa
• Liaise with neighbouring communities and schools about environmental education

Intern: Alien Invasive Species Management - South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) - South Africa

(2014-01 - 2015-12)

• Scientific data collection
• Conduct site visits
• Compile reports and incorporate the site visit findings into the recommendations
• Herbarium database management
• Herbarium specimens filling
• Mounting of specimens
• Data Quality Controller

Laboratory technician - National Research Foundation (NRF) Walter Sisulu University - South Africa

(2012-03 - 2013-03)

• Carrying out routine tasks accurately and following strict methodologies to carry out analyses
• Preparing specimens and samples
• Constructing, maintaining and operating standard laboratory equipment, for example centrifuges, titrators, pipetting machines and pH meters
• Ensuring the laboratory is well-stocked and resourced
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Capacity Development Programme

MSc - Environmental Botany - Stellenbosch University (2016-01 - 2017-12)

BSc Honours - Zoology - Walter Sisulu University (2012-01 - 2012-12)

BSc - Biological sciences (Botany and Zoology) - Walter Sisulu University (2009-01 - 2011-12)