2.0 Current Package (as proposed in the EIS/SIS)

Transcription

COMPENSATORY HABITAT – TUGUN BYPASS
Table of Contents
1.0
2.0
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Current Package (as proposed in the EIS/SIS) ............................................................................................................................ 2
2.1
Land ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2
2.2
Compensatory measures .................................................................................................................................................................. 2
2.2.1
Long-nosed Potoroo............................................................................................................................................................... 2
2.2.2
Vegetation .............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
2.2.3
Frogs ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.2.4
Hollows .................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2.5
Common Planigale................................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2.6
General .................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2.7
Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................................................. 4
3.0
Review of adequacy (Bali 2005)..................................................................................................................................................... 5
3.1
Adequacies ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
3.2
Inadequacies .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
4.0
Matters considered......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
4.1
Subsequent Studies (relevant to compensatory habitat)................................................................................................................... 6
4.1.1
Potential for Walking Trail between Tugun Heights Conservation Park and 'Hidden Valley' (Brown 2005)......................... 7
4.1.2
Systematic Surveys for Coastal Planigale (Planigale maculata) on Crown land and adjacent GCAL Controlled Lands
(Lewis 2005)........................................................................................................................................................................... 7
4.1.3
Fauna Survey of Lands Identified for Compensatory Habitat for the Proposed Tugun Bypass Project (Lewis 2005)............ 7
4.1.4
Vegetation Survey of Proposed Compensatory Habitat Blocks A and E, Tweed Heads West NSW, Tugun Bypass Project
(Benwell 2005) ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7
4.1.5
Proposed Tugun Bypass – Review of Wallum Sedge Frog and Green-thighed Frog (Ingram 2005) ...................................... 7
4.1.6
Site investigation of Block C................................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2
Management of Long-nosed Potoroo habitat ................................................................................................................................... 8
4.3
Weed Management.......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.4
NSW Crown Land (south of Boyd Street) ....................................................................................................................................... 9
5.0
Options to offset inadequacies ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1
Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal Floodplains Endangered Ecological Community............................................................... 10
5.1.1
Implement actions as per EIS/SIS proposal ........................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.2
Acquisition of additional land ............................................................................................................................................... 10
5.2
Acid Frog habitat and artificial ponds............................................................................................................................................ 11
5.2.1
Implement actions as per EIS/SIS proposal.......................................................................................................................... 11
5.2.2
Habitat restoration............................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.2.3
Purchase of more suitable land............................................................................................................................................. 11
5.3
Hollows ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
5.3.1
5.3.2
Replace only medium to large hollows ................................................................................................................................. 12
5.4
Potoroo .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
5.4.1
5.4.2
Actions to offset impacts of the Tugun Bypass ...................................................................................................................... 13
5.4.3
Management of Cumulative Impacts .................................................................................................................................... 13
5.4.4
Additional potoroo habitat ................................................................................................................................................... 14
5.5
Common Planigale ........................................................................................................................................................................ 14
5.5.1
5.5.2
Confirmation of Habitat on Block A and Block F .................................................................................................................. 15
5.5.3
Contingency measures ........................................................................................................................................................... 15
6.0
Final Package - proposal.............................................................................................................................................................. 16
6.1
Land .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
6.2
Compensatory measures ................................................................................................................................................................ 18
6.2.1
Long-nosed Potoroo............................................................................................................................................................. 18
6.2.2
Vegetation ............................................................................................................................................................................ 19
6.2.3
Frogs .................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
6.2.4
Tree Hollows ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19
6.2.5
Common Planigale ................................................................................................................................................................ 20
6.3
Monitoring of compensatory measures.......................................................................................................................................... 20
6.3.1
Habitat rehabilitation and revegetation ............................................................................................................................... 20
6.3.2
Tree Hollows and Nest Boxes............................................................................................................................................... 20
6.4 Modifications to the EIS/SIS ................................................................................................................................................................ 21
8.0
List of Appendices ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
Appendix A
Frog Ponds ................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Location ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Design criteria ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 23
Performance Criteria .................................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Monitoring Program ................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Contingencies ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Appendix B
Potential for Walking Trail between Tugun Heights Conservation Park and 'Hidden Valley' (Brown 2005) .......... 25
Appendix C
Systematic Surveys for Coastal Planigale (Planigale maculata) on Crown land and adjacent GCAL Controlled
Lands (Lewis 2005) ...................................................................................................................................................... 26
Appendix D
Fauna Survey of Lands Identified for Compensatory Habitat for the Proposed Tugun Bypass Project (Lewis 2005)..
...................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Appendix E
Vegetation Survey of Proposed Compensatory Habitat Blocks A and E, Tweed Heads West NSW, Tugun Bypass
Project (Benwell 2005) ................................................................................................................................................. 28
Appendix F
Proposed Tugun Bypass – Review of Wallum Sedge Frog and Green-thighed Frog (Ingram 2005) ........................ 29
Appendix G
Stage 1 Assessment – Compensatory Habitat Package for Tugun Bypass (Bali 2005) .............................................. 30
October 2005
1.0 Introduction
Ecosense Consulting Pty Ltd was recently commissioned to undertake a review of the compensatory
habitat package as proposed in the Tugun Bypass Environmental Impact Statement 2004 (EIS) and
Tugun Bypass Species Impact Statement 2004 (SIS). This review (Bali 2005) considered a number of
residual impacts where the proposed offsets may be insufficient. In these instances, further
compensation was recommended and options identified.
This report further considers compensatory offsets with the overall aim of finalising the compensatory
habitat package for the Tugun Bypass. A summary of the original package as proposed in 2004 and
additional studies undertaken since public display is also provided.
2.0 Current Package (as proposed in the EIS/SIS)
The Tugun Bypass compensatory habitat package comprises two main components. They are land and
compensatory measures, both of which are summarised below.
2.1 Land
The land package proposed in the EIS comprises a total area of approximately 75 hectares. It
consists of three (3) allotments, referred to as Blocks A, C and E. The individual area of each of
these lots is provided in Table 1.
Real Property Description
Area (ha)
Block A
Lot 3 on DP837715
64.1
Block C
Lot 1 on DP226067
4.7*
Lot 8 on DP8655
Block E
Lot 18 on DP583263
6.3**
* The area identified in the EIS was incorrect - actual area is 3.7 hectares.
** After reconfiguration, the total area will be 6.2 hectares.
Table 1 Tugun Bypass compensatory land
2.2 Compensatory measures
A number of compensatory measures were proposed in the EIS and SIS. They include:
2.2.1 Long-nosed Potoroo
Initiation of Fox control measures throughout vacant NSW Crown land to the west
of the proposed Tugun Bypass,
Provision of predator control fencing around the Cobaki Lakes development area
once construction commences in order to reduce the incidence of dogs and cats
straying from the development preying on native wildlife in adjacent NSW Crown
lands, and
If necessary, provision of predator control fencing along both sides of the Boyd
Street extension, once operational.
Some of the above measures were identified as being dependent on negotiations
with Leda Manorstead Pty Ltd (Cobaki Lakes developers).
October 2005
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Provision of fauna exclusion fencing along the proposed bypass as to deter
domestic dogs and cats from residential areas to the east from accessing Longnosed Potoroo habitat.
Preparation of a fire management plan for NSW Crown Land (Boyd Street area)
that would account for the habitat requirements of the potoroo. This would include
the prescription of mosaic patch burns as to prevent catastrophic wildfires and
would be implemented as soon as practical after approval for the project has been
received.
2.2.2 Vegetation
Where possible, plants of conservation significance would be incorporated into
rehabilitation plans for the road corridor. In particular the Little Wattle and Match
Sticks would be considered in areas adjacent to the NSW Crown Land (north of
Boyd Street) and Chinese Burr would be spread in the Paperbark Regrowth and
Woodland Communities near the Tweed Interchange.
Weed management and rehabilitation of the Saltmarsh on the Pony Club land
would be undertaken.
Main Roads and the Roads and Traffic Authority would seek permission from the
Department of Lands (and Tweed Shire Council as trustee) to undertake additional
weed management (for 10 years) of Endangered Ecological Communities as
situated within NSW Crown Land (Lot 319). This could include:
o
3.3 hectares of Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest Endangered Ecological
Community,
o
16.8 hectares of Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal Floodplains Endangered
Ecological Community, and
o
1.9 hectares of Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains Endangered
Ecological Community.
2.2.3 Frogs
Creation of artificial breeding ponds for the Wallum Sedge Frog within the road
corridor or on Block C.
Ponds were proposed to:
o
Be a minium of 1.5 metres deep with a gradient sloping to 0.3 metres at the
pond edges,
o
Be between 15 to 20 metres long and 5 to 10 metres wide,
o
Be constructed away from permanent water bodies and drainage lines to
prevent the import of saline water and predatory fish,
o
Be constructed so that banks have a have a gradual slope, being deepest in
the middle,
o
Have the same physico-chemical properties as existing used water bodies,
o
Have a slow release liner, similar to those used in dam construction and
sedimentation traps, to increase the permanency of surface water (>80%),
October 2005
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o
Be revegetated with species consistent with the local habitat requirements for
the Wallum Sedge Frog, such as Restio spp.,
o
Utilise dense Restio stands that would be disturbed from within the footprint
by a process of ‘slabbing’. Slabbing depth should be a minimum depth of 30
cm to ensure organic layers are collected,
o
Be constructed during a dry period (spring) leading to a pronounced rainfall
period as to enable machinery to access the site with minimal damage and
enhance the likelihood that transplanted vegetation would survive,
o
Be interspersed with existing breeding ponds, thereby increasing the
interconnectivity of aquatic habitats, and
o
Where practical, be connected by terrestrial vegetated corridors.
2.2.4 Hollows
Portions of trees within the footprint and that contain hollows would be removed
and reinstated in adjacent areas. Damaged or destroyed hollows would be replaced
with appropriately designed nest boxes. In the following instances this would
include:
o
Small hollows would be replaced with nest boxes designed for bats,
incorporating an overhanging roof and internal baffles and having both
internal and external walls lined with flyscreen to improve grip,
o
Medium sized hollows would be replaced with those designed for Squirrel
Gliders and Brush-tailed Phascogales,
o
Large hollows would be replaced with nest boxes designed for owls.
2.2.5 Common Planigale
Revegetate a 10-30 metre wide habitat link along the road edge between Common
Planigale habitats in the south to the wet/dry culvert to provide continuous habitat
for fauna to the underpass.
Investigating the purchase of known Common Planigale habitat elsewhere close to
the site (perhaps Cudgen Creek).
2.2.6 General
All measures would be funded by Main Roads
Fox baiting is likely to be undertaken by the NSW Rural Lands Protection Board.
Fencing around the south-eastern part of the Cobaki Lakes development is likely to
be undertaken by Main Roads and maintained by the NSW Department of Lands.
The construction and maintenance of predator control fencing is dependant on
negotiations with Leda Manorstead who are constructing the Cobaki Lakes
development.
2.2.7 Monitoring
Monitoring the performance of compensatory measures was also proposed including
that of habitat rehabilitation and revegetation, tree hollows and nest boxes and measures
for the Long-nosed Potoroo.
October 2005
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3.0 Review of adequacy (Bali 2005)
In 2001, Ecosense Consulting Pty Ltd was commissioned to develop a compensatory habitat package
for the Tugun Bypass. At that time the P7 version of the C4 alignment was proposed and impact
assessed. Since then the C4 alignment and associated management measures have been modified, in
some instances to avoid or minimise environmental impacts. Due to these modifications and time
elapsed, Ecosense was re-commissioned to undertake a review of the offsets proposed and identify any
residual impacts.
In undertaking this assessment, Bali also reviewed new information presented in studies by Benwell
and Lewis described in Section 4 of this report.
The adequacy and inadequacies, as highlighted in this review are detailed in the following paragraphs.
3.1 Adequacies
Re-assessment (Bali 2005) of the compensatory habitat package as proposed in 2004 confirmed,
in overall terms the suitability and environmental benefits of the package. Attributes and
benefits described during this assessment include:
•
It fulfils the size and proximity criteria set out in the draft NSW RTA policy;
•
It represents a net gain for two vegetation communities of state significance and three
communities of regional significance affected by the Tugun Bypass;
•
It represents a net gain of 17.4 ha of Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest, an Endangered
Ecological Community in NSW and of state significance in Queensland;
•
It shares 14 (38%) of vegetation communities and 10 (45%) plant species of conservation
significance in common with the Tugun study area;
•
It represents a net gain of individual plants to be removed as a result of the proposal, for
six plant species of national and state significance;
•
It protects an additional six plant species of national and state significance and four
regionally threatened plant species not found in the Tugun study area;
•
It protects habitat for at least 10 fauna species of national and state significance;
•
It is in close proximity to the impacted area and is directly or indirectly connected to
habitat within the Tugun Bypass study area;
•
It shares seven (58%) of habitat types and 45% of legislatively significant flora and fauna
species in common with the Tugun study area;
•
It represents an opportunity to conserve 7.2 ha of regionally significant Mangrove Forest
in the Cobaki area;
•
It contains a regionally significant Koala population that may be one of the last
populations in south and west Tweed;
•
It represents an opportunity to further secure 22.1 ha of SEPP 14 wetlands that are zoned
Environmental Protection;
•
It forms a strategically located link connecting habitat areas around the Cobaki
Broadwater for flora and fauna; and
•
It provides an opportunity for the establishment of a continuous area of land having
environmental protection around the Cobaki Broadwater.
October 2005
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In summary the package provided '
gains'in:
•
the net area of Endangered Ecological Communities,
•
the area of SEPP 14 Wetland, and
•
Some instances, the individual number of a prescribed species.
3.2 Inadequacies
In general, Bali (2005) considered that the proposed land package compared favourably with
that of proposed bypass route. However it was noted that the vegetation types contained within
the package were more representative of the northern section of the proposed road corridor. As
such, coastal lowland vegetation is poorly represented and would not be adequately
compensated. Residual impacts identified and considered of particular significance were:
•
14 ha of the Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal Floodplains Endangered Ecological
Community.
Residual impacts on certain fauna species were also indicated. This primarily concerned habitat
loss for the following animals:
•
Wallum Froglet/Wallum Sedge Frog,
•
Long-nosed Potoroo, and
•
Common Planigale.
A potential net loss in senescent hollow bearing trees that contain medium to large hollows was
also identified. This was estimated to result in the possible loss of 16 hollows.
In conclusion, additional compensatory measures were recommended which included the
purchase of or the written agreement of conservation covenants over additional land.
4.0 Matters considered
Bali (2005) provided a detailed assessment of residual impacts that may occur as a result of the
construction and operation of the proposed bypass. Further offsets were subsequently recommended
and measures provided to achieve such. These recommendations have been considered together with
the:
•
results of additional studies,
•
outcomes of meetings with the Department of Environment and Conservation, Tweed Shire
Council and Leda Manorstead Pty Ltd.
•
additional review by and discussion with Bali.
During this process additional information was highlighted and discussed. As a result, certain needs
were reassessed and preliminary recommendations modified. The following paragraphs provide a
summary of this information and proposed amendments.
4.1 Subsequent Studies (relevant to compensatory habitat)
Further environmental studies have been undertaken since the 2004 compensatory habitat
package was first proposed. These studies were in response to submissions received during
public display or to progress commitments within the EIS. Copies of these documents are
October 2005
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appended and a summary of findings or recommendations relevant to compensation are
provided below.
4.1.1 Potential for Walking Trail between Tugun Heights
Conservation Park and 'Hidden Valley' (Brown 2005)
•
Rehabilitation of two small patches just to the north of Hidden Valley, within the
road reserve. The revegetation of these areas would provide a continuous vegetated
corridor for faunal movement.
4.1.2 Systematic Surveys for Coastal Planigale (Planigale maculata)
on Crown land and adjacent GCAL Controlled Lands (Lewis
2005)
•
Evaluation of the compensatory habitat land (Blocks A and E) for planigale
4.1.3 Fauna Survey of Lands Identified for Compensatory Habitat
for the Proposed Tugun Bypass Project (Lewis 2005)
•
Removal of chain mesh fencing from between Blocks A and E,
•
Removal of fencing between the north western boundary of Block A and the
adjoining parcel of Crown Land,
•
Initiate a plan of management that provides a strategic approach towards land
conservation,
•
Determine who will manage Blocks A and E,
•
Further acquisition of compensatory land. Areas recommended were that area of
NSW Crown Land (adjacent to Boyd Street) that is currently subject to an
aboriginal land claim or failing this, an area adjacent to Cudgen Nature Reserve,
Bogangar,
•
Revision of the 2004 compensatory habitat package.
4.1.4 Vegetation Survey of Proposed Compensatory Habitat Blocks
A and E, Tweed Heads West NSW, Tugun Bypass Project
(Benwell 2005)
•
Removal of stock,
•
Intensive weed eradication,
•
Broad-scale restoration planting of cleared areas with endemic species,
•
Preparation of a Fire Management Plan,
•
Burning of sclerophyll vegetation to promote seed germination.
4.1.5 Proposed Tugun Bypass – Review of Wallum Sedge Frog and
Green-thighed Frog (Ingram 2005)
•
The design proposed (DMR 2004) for the construction of artificial breeding
ponds and drainage lines for the Wallum Sedge Frog is feasible and likely to be
successful,
•
Possible locations for artificial ponds were identified as:
a. Along either side of the proposed road within Commonwealth land,
b. Above the proposed road tunnel,
c. Immediately west of Commonwealth land (NSW Crown land south of Boyd
Street),
October 2005
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d. Immediately south of Commonwealth land (Block C).
•
If frog ponds are built either side of the proposed road, frog fences may be
required to prevent mortalities.
•
Construction of artificial frog ponds on Block C may require management of
nearby saline waterbodies,
•
If frog ponds are built, their viability as breeding areas for the Wallum Sedge
Frog should be monitored.
4.1.6 Site investigation of Block C
•
Site investigations were carried out on two occasions and by Dr Glen Ingram, Mr
David Hannah (Parsons Brinckerhoff) and/or Mr Darren Brighton (Department
of Main Roads) to determine suitable areas for the construction of artificial frog
ponds,
•
a low lying area of Paperbark Forest (refer Figure 2.3 of Appendix P – Technical
Paper 12) was anticipated to be the most suitable location for ponds,
•
Ephemeral ponds were not abundant after recent heavy rain,
•
Water quality analysis was undertaken to determine if nearby tidal drainage
channels influenced groundwater quality,
•
Ground and surface water quality exhibited (July 2005) the following
characteristics:
a. pH – (5.23 to 5.58),
b. Salinity (320 to 470 uS.cm-1),
c. Groundwater height – (100 mm below ground level).
•
Considerable disturbance of certain areas had occurred due to unauthorised
access and operation of motorbikes,
•
Recording of this work was by way of field note, as such no formal document
was produced.
4.2 Management of Long-nosed Potoroo habitat
Potoroo habitat in the Queensland component of the study area was limited to an area approved
for residential development. Compulsory acquisition for the purpose of road has effectively
prevented the broad scale clearing of this entire area and will result in the conservation of
approximately one (1) hectare of habitat. This area is referred to as Block P (refer Figure 1) and
constitutes 5% of known potoroo habitat north of Boyd Street.
Modification of the Tugun Bypass alignment has been undertaken to avoid the fragmentation of
potoroo habitat, however direct disturbance and edge effects are still indicated. The total area of
direct disturbance is indicated to be one half of a hectare and one hectare with edge effects.
Department of Main Roads met with Tweed Shire Council and Leda Manorstead on 31 August
2005 to discuss the impacts on the Long-nosed Potoroo which have or may result from the
Tugun Bypass, Boyd Street extension and Cobaki Lakes subdivision. Options to manage
impacts were subsequently discussed and ‘in principle’ agreement reached to develop an
integrated plan of management for the Cobaki Lakes Population of the Long-nosed Potoroo.
The plan would focus on impacts, their management, responsibilities for implementation and
timing. Main Roads has committed to co-ordinating the development of this plan and continuing
consultation with the relevant environmental authorities, further detail is provided in Section 5.4
of this report.
October 2005
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4.3 Weed Management
Technical Paper 12 of the Tugun Bypass Environmental Impact Statement recommends weed
management (of wetlands) as a compensatory measure and cites the Department of
Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources’ support. Subsequently, additional weed
management was proposed within the Tugun Bypass Species Impact Statement Addendum to
offset residual impacts on endangered ecological communities and within Por 319 (Pony Club).
Recent correspondence indicates that additional weed management may not be required within
Por 319 as this area is already managed by the Department of Lands and Tweed Shire Council.
It is therefore proposed that additional weed management of Por 319 be withdrawn. However,
rehabilitation of an area of Saltmarsh on Por 319 is still proposed.
Figure 1
Potoroo habitat (Block P)
4.4 NSW Crown Land (south of Boyd Street)
Bali (2005) and Lewis (2005) have identified a parcel of NSW Crown land, immediately south
of Boyd Street as a candidate for compensatory habitat. A claim under the NSW Aboriginal
Land Rights Act1983 for this land was lodged on 21 January 1988 by the Tweed Byron Local
Aboriginal Land Council (TBLALC) and is yet to be determined.
Although, the NSW Department of Lands has advised that settlement of this claim is being
progressed, at present it would not be possible to acquire this land. The land is also assigned
environmental protection under the Tweed Shire Local Environment Plan and may be
strengthened if the DEC enters into a proposed conservation agreement with the TBLALC,
should it be successful in the claim. It is therefore not proposed to include this land in the
package.
October 2005
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5.0 Options to offset inadequacies
5.1 Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on Coastal Floodplains Endangered
Ecological Community
5.1.1 Implement actions as per EIS/SIS proposal
Overall, a net ‘gain’ in Endangered Ecological Communities would be provided with
the current compensatory habitat land package (Blocks A, C & E). This ‘gain’ is
currently estimated to exceed 10 percent and includes an additional 17.4 hectares of
Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest Endangered Ecological Community (SOFF). Although
different in composition, the compensation of SOFF for Swamp Sclerophyll Forest on
Coastal Floodplains Endangered Ecological Community (SSF) is considered reasonable
as both communities are equivalent in conservation value. Furthermore, environmental
impact assessment identified that the abundance of SOFF within the local and regional
area was dramatically less than SSF (refer Table 2). In this instance, a comparative ratio
of 1:1 is considered reasonable and negates the need to considered additional
compensatory land or measures.
Community
Local abundance (ha) Regional abundance (ha)
Swamp Sclerophyll Forest
110
Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest 12
Table 2
29 155
2 883
Abundance of Endangered Ecological Communities
5.1.2 Acquisition of additional land
Although there is a case for not providing further compensation for SSF, preliminary
investigations have been undertaken to determine suitable sites that may be purchased.
This has occurred in consultation with the Department of Environment and
Conservation and has subsequently identified one lot of land that adjoins the Cudgen
Nature Reserve. The real property description of this site is Lot 22 on DP1058759 (Lot
22) and is situated approximately 25 kilometres south of the proposed Tugun Bypass.
Lot 22 is a 68 hectare parcel of land divided by Clothiers Creek Road. The area to the
south is approximately 51 hectares in size and adjoins the Cudgen Nature Reserve to
the East and West. As described in Section 5.2, negotiations regarding the sale of an 11
hectare portion (refer Figure 2) of the southern area have commenced with the owner
and are expected to continue through October. This area (size and location) was
determined by the sites natural values and the projects perceived needs, however land
use matters and the owners’ future intentions were also considerations. For the purpose
of this report, this 11 hectare area of land shall be referred to as Block F.
Desktop assessment indicates Block F supports Broad-leaved Paperbark Closed Forest,
Blackbutt Open Forest and Freshwater Wetlands (Tweed Shire Council). A large
portion of this land is also identified on State Environmental Planning Policy No 14 –
Coastal Wetlands. Field survey would be undertaken to confirm these values and the
block’s suitability to further compensate residual impacts of the Tugun Bypass project.
This would occur on confirmation that the required area of land is available to be
purchased and on terms suitable to all parties.
October 2005
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5.2 Acid Frog habitat and artificial ponds
Ingram (2005) recently confirmed that artificial frog pond construction, as proposed
within the EIS and SIS is feasible. Furthermore locations for their development were
recommended and included areas within Gold Coast Airport (and that would eventually
become NSW state road reserve) and Block C.
Impact assessment indicates that the proposed Tugun Bypass may disturb two breeding
ponds for the acid frogs. The construction of three artificial ponds is therefore proposed
with Appendix A providing further detail on the location, design and proposed
monitoring of these structures. Ingram'
s continued involvement would also be sought
during the finalisation of design and subsequent monitoring.
5.2.2 Habitat restoration
Previous activity within Block C has resulted in the disturbance or modification of
habitat for the acid frogs. Site investigation indicates areas of vegetation clearing and
modification to topography. Measures to improve this lands conservation value and its
suitability as habitat for the acid frogs could include:
Installation of a floodgate within the adjacent tidal drain,
Reinstatement of perimeter fencing,
Preparatory works of disturbed areas, including re-profiling and light ripping to
relieve compaction,
Weed management,
High density planting of Broad-leaved Paperbark,
Monitoring and maintenance over a ten year period.
5.2.3 Purchase of more suitable land
Site visits have confirmed that habitat within Block C would generally support both the
Wallum Sedge and Wallum Frog. However concerns were raised over the possibility of
saline water permeating groundwater (from an adjacent tidal drain) and affecting
ephemeral waterbodies. The long term security and management of the land were also
raised as matters requiring consideration.
Monitoring of surface and ground waters was subsequently undertaken (July 2005) and
indicated that saline intrusion was not cause for concern. However the quality of both
surface and ground water was considered marginal for the breeding of acid frogs, a
matter most probably associated with soil chemistry. It was anticipated that this matter
may be managed by way of design if frog ponds were to be constructed as could the
issues of unauthorised access.
In light of this information, it was decided to consider if other more '
suitable'habitat
could be identified. Discussions with the Department of Environment and Conservation
indicated that land (Lot 22) adjacent to the Cudgen Nature Reserve may be suitable as
previous survey had identified both the Wallum Sedge Frog and Wallum Froglet.
Subsequent desktop assessment and preliminary field survey still indicates suitable
habitat for both these species, with shallow, ephemeral ponds on coastal sands amongst
paperbark.
October 2005
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The Tugun Bypass EIS/SIS indicates that fifty hectares of both known and potential
habitat for the acid frogs may be impacted. However overlaps between habitat for these
species indicate the actual area impacted is smaller than the total sum. Review also
indicates that areas of habitat already approved for development and common to the
road corridor were not deducted. Together with the uncertainty of potential habitat,
these approved developments (Gold Coast Airport runway and Boyd Street extensions)
may effectively reduce the actual area of impact (as a result of the Tugun Bypass) and
need for compensation. Additional assessment indicates the actual area of impact may
be as low as 11 hectares.
Negotiations regarding the sale of an 11 hectare portion (refer Figure 2) of Lot 22 have
commenced with the owner and are expected to continue through October. This area
(size and location) was determined by the sites natural values and the projects perceived
needs, however land use matters and the owners’ future intentions were also
considerations. For the purpose of this report, this 11 hectare area of land shall be
referred to as Block F.
Detailed field survey would be undertaken to confirm the presence of the Wallum
Sedge Frog and Wallum Froglet and the blocks suitability to compensate residual
impacts of the Tugun Bypass project. This would occur on confirmation that the
required area of land is available to be purchased and on terms suitable to all parties.
5.3 Hollows
As committed in the EIS/SIS, medium to large hollows would be removed from trees
from within the footprint and prior to their felling. Hollows not able to be collected and
or reinstated would be replaced by purpose built nest or roost boxes. This would occur
at a ratio of at least 1:1.
Recent survey (Lewis 2005) identified that Blocks A and E of the compensatory habitat
package include a significant number of hollows. Block A contained 16 medium to
large hollows in senescent trees. These hollows have not been considered when
calculating the possible number of hollows to be reinstated or replaced by nest boxes.
The current proposal is therefore anticipated to result in an increase of medium to large
hollows within the study area and that are assigned a level of conservation.
Replacement of small hollows, as proposed in the EIS, is discussed below.
5.3.2 Replace only medium to large hollows
Surveys have indicated an abundance of small hollows within the study area and Blocks
A and E. Given the ready availability of these hollows, reinstatement or replacement of
small hollows removed for the project is not warranted.
5.4 Potoroo
The EIS and SIS detail a number of compensatory measures for the potoroo. It is now
recognised that particular actions specified in the EIS/SIS require further consideration
and detailing. The EIS is also not clear about the responsibilities of the proponents in
October 2005
Page 12 of 30
relation to implementing and funding of those measures. Minor amendments are
recommended to clarify these matters.
5.4.2 Actions to offset impacts of the Tugun Bypass
Stochastic events such as fire and introduced predators have been identified as threats
to the Cobaki Lakes Population of Long-nosed Potoroo. Management measures are
proposed to minimise this risk and include the:
initiation of fox control measures within potoroo habitat on that area of NSW
Crown land, to the west of the Tugun Bypass,
provision of fauna exclusion fencing along the proposed bypass as to deter
domestic dogs and cats from residential areas to the east from accessing Longnosed Potoroo habitat. This may also require the implementation of vertical grates
at the headwalls of culverts,
preparation of a fire management strategy for NSW Crown Land (Boyd Street area)
received.
These measures would be further considered and detailed in the preparation of a
Potoroo Management Plan as discussed below.
5.4.3 Management of Cumulative Impacts
Impact assessment has identified a number of cumulative impacts on the Cobaki Lakes
Population of the Long-nosed Potoroo. This includes the residential developments of
Pacific Beach and Cobaki Lakes to the east and west and the opening of a local road to
the south (Boyd Street extension). Main Roads has subsequently held meetings with
Tweed Shire Council and Leda Manorstead Pty Ltd to discuss these impacts and the
options available for their amelioration. '
In principle'agreement has been reached to
develop an integrated plan of management that addresses the impact of each parties
development on this population, their management (including monitoring), timing and
responsibilities for implementation. It was also agreed that,
•
Main Roads would co-ordinate the development of this plan and consult with the
relevant environmental authorities,
•
Leda Manorstead would request amendment to the relevant Development Consents
(road and subdivision) as agreed within the Potoroo Management Plan.
Management matters raised during this meeting and for further consideration during the
development of the Potoroo Management Plan included,
•
a design review of fauna underpasses proposed within the Boyd Street extension
and their timing for implementation,
•
the Boyd Street overpass bridge and an '
at-grade'fauna underpass with revegetation
to provide connectivity of habitat (see Figure 3),
the construction of predator control fencing around the Cobaki Lakes development
and along both sides of the Boyd Street extension, once operational.
•
It is proposed that these actions be integrated with those detailed in Section 5.4.2.
October 2005
Page 13 of 30
5.4.4 Additional potoroo habitat
Compulsory acquisition for the purpose of road has reduced the clearing of potoroo
habitat within the Queensland component of the study area. Re-alignment of the Tugun
Bypass was undertaken as to avoid the fragmentation of known potoroo habitat north of
Boyd Street. This resulted in the preservation of one hectare of known habitat (Block P)
from an approved residential development (Pacific Beach), and represents 5 percent of
contiguous habitat north of Boyd Street.
Lot 22 on
DP1058759
Portion referred
to as Block F
Source: Tweed Shire Council
Figure 2
Potential compensatory habitat (Block F)
5.5 Common Planigale
The EIS recognised that a local population of Common Planigale could be made extinct
by the Tugun Bypass and proposed that compensatory land be investigated.
Rehabilitation of a 10-30 m wide area of connecting to the wet/dry culvert is also
proposed. This proposal requires clarification in that the rehabilitation is to be between
either end of the wet/dry culvert proposed near chainage 5270 and the adjacent areas of
secondary Planigale habitat.
October 2005
Page 14 of 30
5.5.2 Confirmation of Habitat on Block A and Block F
Compensatory land is proposed as part of the Tugun Bypass compensatory habitat
package and includes the acquisition of Block F. This is primarily to offset impacts on
the '
acid frogs'
, however desktop assessment indicates this land (Block F) may also
support Planigales.
Recent survey by Lewis (2005) did not identify this species within Block A however
suitable habitat was recognised within the north-west precinct. As with previous
survey, abiotic factors (weather) were assumed to influence trap results for this cryptic
species. The likelihood of Block A supporting Common Planigale was subsequently
recognised as moderate and is considered reliable given Lewis'experience in adjacent
areas.
It is now proposed to survey Block F for Planigales, subject to successful negotiations
with the landowner as previously discussed. If Planigale habitat is not confirmed on
Block F, or its purchase is not progressed, then survey of Block A would be undertaken.
Survey methods would reflect previous methods (pit fall traps) and be undertaken
during the warmers month of October/November.
5.5.3 Contingency measures
Should Planigale be confirmed on Block F or Block A, no additional land would be
purchased to compensate for removed Planigale habitat.
However, further consultation would be undertaken with administrating authorities if,
on completion of the surveys above, positive verification of Common Planigale was not
achieved within proposed compensatory lands. The purpose of these discussions would
be to identify suitable compensatory measures or lands to offset residual impacts. Such
measures may include a financial contribution for the management of known Common
Planigale habitat in conservation reserves.
October 2005
Page 15 of 30
Figure 3
Opportunity for Potoroo habitat restoration
6.0 Final Package - proposal
As proposed in the EIS/SIS, the final compensatory habitat package would include both land and
compensatory measures. A summary of these components is provided below.
6.1 Land
Table 3 presents the land components of the Tugun Bypass compensatory habitat package.
Subject to the purchase of Block F, four parcels are proposed with a combined area of 82.3
hectares. Inclusive of edge effects, this exceeds direct impacts of the road footprint and edge
effect allowance by approximately 11 hectares. The package is also 7 hectares larger than the
original package publicly displayed in December 2004.
Real Property Description
Area
(ha)
Block A
Lot 3 on DP837715
64.1
Block E
Lot 18 on DP583263
6.2
Block F
Lot 22 on DP1058759 (portion)
~11.0
Block P
Lot 6 of RP855719 (portion)
1.0
Total 82.3
Table 3
Tugun Bypass compensatory land
Combined, Blocks A and E represent a significant area of land within a highly developed,
coastal region. They consolidate an environmental buffer around the Cobaki Broadwater and are
recognised as supporting flora and fauna of international, national, state or regional significance.
October 2005
Page 16 of 30
Block F also supports such species but is significant in terms of infilling and adjoining areas of
the Cudgen Nature Reserve. Block P is a small but significant area of habitat for the Long-nosed
Potoroo and represents the projects commitment to minimising environmental impacts.
Additional work is still proposed due to the cryptic nature of certain species and the decision to
acquire additional land. Survey of Block F is proposed upon confirmation of its availability.
This would occur in consultation with the relevant state and commonwealth approval agencies
and involve the update of this document. It is anticipated this process would be complete prior
to planning approval.
Management of the above lands would also be required to retain or improve their conservation
value in the long term. As transport infrastructure agencies, both the Department of Main Roads
and the Roads and Traffic Authority lack the skills or funding to manage significant
conservation areas. It is therefore proposed that the large parcels of land (Blocks A, E and F) be
transferred to the Department of Environment and Conservation following project approval.
Table 4 provides a brief overview of those measures that may be required to maintain or
improve the compensatory lands current conservation value. QDMR would contribute funds for
the interim management of Blocks A and E. These funds would cover the reasonable costs of
activities such as the preparation of a management plan (including consideration of fire
management), installation and removal of fencing, site stabilisation and other appropriate
management actions prior to handover. The constituents of the funding package will be
negotiated with the relevant authorities.
.
Land
Block A/E
Management measures
o Develop Plan of Management,
o Upgrading of perimeter fencing and Anconia Drive
access at Block E,
o Implementation of erosion controls within areas at risk.
Security
o Simple land transfer
to the Department of
Environment
and
Conservation
o Removal of stock,
o Intensive weed eradication of areas,
o Burning of sclerophyll vegetation to promote seed
germination,
o Broad-scale restoration planting of cleared areas with
endemic species,
o Continuation of feral animal control,
o Removal of chain mesh fencing from between Blocks A
and E,
o Removal of fencing between the north western boundary
of Block A and the adjoining parcel of Crown Land,
o Installation of medium to large hollows, nest or roost
boxes,
o Assignment of an onsite caretaker.
Block F
o Integration within Cudgen Nature Reserve Plan of
Management
o Simple land transfer
to the Department of
Environment
and
Conservation
Block P
o Management of declared pests, as applicable,
o Retention
by
Department of Main
o Perimeter fencing at embankment toe of Tugun Bypass,
October 2005
Page 17 of 30
Land
Management measures
Security
o Declaration as a '
Significant Environmental Area'under
DMR Policy,
Roads.
o Mosaic patch burns in accordance with the Potoroo
Management Plan
Table 4
Management measures
Contingencies would be undertaken in the advent that Block F is not able to be purchased or is
unsuitable. For the '
acid frogs'this would include the reintegration of Block C (and the proposed
rehabilitation) or the purchase of additional land, if required. Similarly, additional survey of Block A
would be undertaken for the Common Planigale. If planigale are not verified on Block A, then the
purchase of additional land or a contribution to the management of existing populations would be
undertaken. The acquisition of additional land would involve option identification and assessment and
consultation with administrating authorities prior to its purchase.
6.2 Compensatory measures
6.2.1 Long-nosed Potoroo
An integrated plan of management for the Cobaki Lakes Population of the Long-nosed
Potoroo is proposed. Main Roads would co-ordinate its development with Tweed Shire
Council and Leda Manorstead Pty Ltd and consult with the relevant environmental
authorities during its preparation. Existing approvals would be reviewed and the
impacts of each development on the potoroo population identified. Recommendations
for their management (including monitoring), timing and responsibilities for
implementation would be detailed.
Preliminary items for detailed consideration would include,
•
reviewing the suitability and accelerating the implementation of fauna underpasses
within the Boyd Street extension,
•
providing for and revegetating an '
at-grade'fauna underpass beneath the separately
proposed Boyd Street overpass with the objective of re-connecting fragmented
habitat,
constructing predator control fencing around the relevant areas of the Cobaki Lakes
development as to minimise dogs and cats entering known habitat of the potoroo,
•
•
constructing predator control fencing along both sides of the Boyd Street extension,
once operational.
Compensatory measures specifically proposed as part of the Tugun Bypass project
would also be integrated within the Potoroo Management Plan (subject to the
agreement of relevant agencies and land owners). These measures would include the,
initiation of fox control measures within potoroo habitat on that area of NSW
Crown land, to the west of the Tugun Bypass,
provision of fauna exclusion fencing along the proposed bypass as to deter
domestic dogs and cats from residential areas to the east from accessing potoroo
habitat. Fencing would be chain mesh and extend from chainage 2400 – 3600
October 2005
Page 18 of 30
metres and be constructed the minimum distance from constructed infrastructure.
Priority however shall be given to safety and maintenance considerations in the
first instance. Vertical grates at the headwalls of culverts would also be used.
preparation of a fire management strategy for NSW Crown Land (Boyd Street area)
received,
monitoring conducted on an annual basis and over a period of at least five (5)
years. This would focus on the effectiveness of management measures employed
and the cumulative effects of development.
Department of Main Roads would fund the measures specifically associated with the
bypass for a period of 10 years unless otherwise specified.
Consultation would include the NSW Departments of Lands and Environment and
Conservation, NSW Rural Lands Protection Board, Queensland Environmental
Protection Agency (Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service), Commonwealth
Department of Environment and Heritage and possibly TBLALC .
The target date for finalisation of the plan will be set at three (3) months post planning
approval.
6.2.2 Vegetation
•
Where possible, plants of conservation significance would be incorporated into
rehabilitation plans for the road corridor. In particular the Little Wattle and Match
Sticks would be considered in areas adjacent to the NSW Crown Land (north of
Boyd Street) and Chinese Burr would be spread in the Paperbark Regrowth and
Woodland Communities near the Tweed Interchange.
•
Rehabilitation as recommended by Brown (2005) of two cleared areas, north of
Hidden Valley as to provide a continuous vegetated corridor for fauna movement.
•
Rehabilitation of Saltmarsh area on Pony Club land
6.2.3 Frogs
•
Three, purpose built frog ponds would be constructed in association with the Tugun
Bypass. These ponds would be constructed during the Construction Phase and as
early as possible. Specific details for the design, location and management of these
ponds are provided in Appendix A.
6.2.4 Tree Hollows
Damaged or destroyed hollows would be replaced at a ratio of 1:1 and with
appropriately designed nest or roost boxes. In the following instances this would
include,
•
Medium sized hollows would be replaced with those designed for Squirrel Gliders
and Brush-tailed Phascogales,
•
Large hollows would be replaced with nest boxes designed for owls.
October 2005
Page 19 of 30
These will be located on Blocks A and E and in suitable locations along the Tugun
Bypass alignment as detailed and approved in the Flora and Fauna Management Sub
Plan to be developed in consultation with DEC and other relevant agencies.
6.2.5 Common Planigale
Additional survey for Common Planigale is proposed on Blocks A and F as proposed in
5.5.2. Survey methods would reflect previous methods (pit fall traps) and be undertaken
during the warmer month of October.
If no Planigales are found on either Block, other suitable land or a contribution to the
management of existing known Planigale populations would be proposed.
6.3 Monitoring of compensatory measures
Once implemented, compensatory measures would be monitored and corrective action
undertaken where the desired performance criteria have not been achieved. This requirement
would be documented within a specific Flora and Fauna Management Sub Plan. Suggested
protocols and performance criteria are outlined below.
6.3.1 Habitat rehabilitation and revegetation
•
Plantings would be checked to estimate the rate of growth, species composition,
level of weed infestation, general vigour and health, and to identify any areas that
have not established,
•
Monitoring would be undertaken twice a year during the first two years after
planting and include the spring period,
•
Annual monitoring would then be undertaken during spring/summer for an
additional three years of until vegetation is established,
•
If weeds are established then hand weeding or spraying would be undertaken as to
minimise their spread,
•
Areas where plantings have failed or native regeneration has not occurred would
necessitate follow up planting or seeding.
6.3.2 Tree Hollows and Nest Boxes
Any tree hollows re-instated or nest boxes installed would be monitored. This would be
undertaken twice a year for a minimum of 3 years. Re-instated tree hollows would be
monitored using the stagwatching technique and be undertaken in general accordance
with the following guidelines:
•
medium to large re-instated hollows (suitable for gliders) should be examined
externally for signs of use between June and September,
•
any hollows showing sign of use should be subjected to dusk stagwatching
accompanied by spotlighting to positively identify occupants, and
•
a representative sample of medium re-instated hollows should be monitored by
stagwatching (at least twice a year over three years) to determine the timing of
occupation.
Nest boxes would be monitored in general accordance with the following guidelines:
October 2005
Page 20 of 30
•
All nest boxes would be accessed by ladder and opened during daylight hours to
detect and identify occupants,
•
All gliders found nesting/roosting in nest boxes would be marked appropriately for
future identification,
•
Nest boxes suitable for Squirrel Gliders would be monitored at least once between
June to September, and
6.4 Modifications to the EIS/SIS
A small number of modifications to either the land or activity components of the compensatory
package, as proposed in 2004 are now proposed. Table 5 provides a summary of these and a
brief explanation supporting their removal.
Aspect
Land
Rationale for removal
Block C
Block F is proposed to replace Block C. This represents a net gain in overall
area (seven hectares) and is perceived to be of greater ecological diversity
and quality.
Block C has been removed (for environmental compensation) on the
presumption that Block F is suitable and can be acquired. If Block F is not
suitable or cannot be acquired then Block C will be proposed. If not required
for compensatory habitat Block C may be used to offset the acquisition costs
of land from Lot 319,
Vegetation
Weed management and rehabilitation
on Lot 319 (Pony Club land).
Weed management of Lot 319 is currently undertaken and considered
sufficient. Rehabilitation of the Saltmarsh area is still proposed.
Hollows
Small hollows would be replaced
with nest boxes designed for bats,
incorporating an overhanging roof
and internal baffles and having both
internal and external walls lined with
flyscreen to improve grip,
Common Planigale
Revegetate a 10-30 metre wide
habitat link along the road edge
between Common Planigale habitat
in the south to the wet/dry culvert to
provide continuous habitat for fauna
to the underpass.
General
All measures would be funded by
Main Roads
Fencing around the south-eastern
part of the Cobaki Lakes
development is likely to be
undertaken by Main Roads and
maintained by the NSW Department
of Lands.
Table 5
Detailed survey of the study area and Blocks A and E indicate an extensive
number of small hollows. Replacement of small hollows in this circumstance
is not warranted.
This commitment is clarified to be revegetation at the entrance and exits of
purpose built fauna underpasses (5270 m) adjacent to secondary Planigale
habitat areas.
Expenditure of public funds is to be consistent with State government policy.
An integrated plan of management is to be developed for the Cobaki Lakes
Population of the Long-nosed Potoroo. Cumulative impacts, management
options, timing for implementation and responsibilities will be discussed and
detailed within this plan.
Compensatory modifications
October 2005
Page 21 of 30
8.0 List of Appendices
Appendix A
Frog Ponds
Few attempts to replicate or reinstate breeding areas for '
acid frogs'have been undertaken and
documented in Australia. It is well recognised however that the Wallum Froglet and to a lesser extent,
the Wallum Sedge Frog will rapidly recolonise disturbed areas, previously described as '
Wallum'
. In
these instances common attributes are shallow water bodies in sandy soils and of low pH and electrical
conductivity. It therefore anticipated that with careful and planned intent, artificial ponds can be
constructed to replace those impacted by the proposed Tugun Bypass.
Consultation with recognised authorities on '
acid frogs'has been undertaken to determine the design
requirements and location for artificial ponds. A list of these people is provided below.
Dr. Glen Ingram
Biodiversity Assessment and Management Pty Ltd
Dr. Michael Mahoney
University of Newcastle
Dr. Ed Meyer
Griffith University
Mr. Harry Hines
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Mr. Robert Payne
Ecological Survey and Management
Mr. Ben Lewis
Lewis Ecological Surveys
A number of recommendations were provided during these discussions based on observations made
during field and laboratory work. A summary of commonalities is provided below:
o
ponds should be constructed in sandy substrates (which previously contained '
Wallum'
) with
an underlying organic hardpan,
o
ponds should generally be shallow and constructed in areas of high groundwater,
o
water quality should exhibit the following characteristics:
pH < 5 ( as influenced by humic acids)
hardness < 100 p.p.m.
salinity < 350 uS.cm-1
o
ponds should be ephemeral to prevent habitation by fish but have a minimum hydro-period of
4-6 weeks for the Wallum Froglet and 8 weeks for the Wallum Sedge Frog.
o
pond fringes should be densely planted with emergent species to prevent predation by Bufo
marinus,
In consideration of the above recommendations, the Tugun Bypass Species Impact Statement (2004)
and Ingram (2005) the following locations and design criteria for ponds are proposed.
Location
o
within the road corridor*, east and west of the proposed bypass (chainage 4500 – 5100
metres), and
o
where required, within the catchment of ephemeral drainage lines (refer Figure 4).
* dependant on the retention of Block C, frog ponds may also be constructed in this location.
October 2005
Page 22 of 30
Frog pond
locations
Figure 4:
Proposed locations of artificial frog ponds
Design criteria
a) ‘above ground’
o
a minimum of 1.5 meres deep with a gradient sloping to 0.3 metres at the pond edges,
o
approximately 15 to 20 metres long and 5 to 10 metres wide,
o
incorporate a slow release liner, similar to those used in dam construction and
sedimentation traps or to increase the permanency of surface water (>80%),
o
margins revegetated with species consistent with the local habitat requirements for the
Wallum Sedge Frog, such as Restio spp.,
o
utilise dense Restio stands that would be disturbed from within the footprint by a process
of ‘slabbing’. Slabbing depth should be a minimum depth of 30 cm to ensure organic
layers are collected,
o
Construction during a dry period (spring) leading to a pronounced rainfall period as to
enable machinery to access the site with minimal damage and enhance the likelihood that
transplanted vegetation would survive,
o
Be interspersed with existing breeding ponds, thereby increasing the interconnectivity of
aquatic habitats, and
o
Where practical, connected by terrestrial vegetated corridors.
October 2005
Page 23 of 30
b) ‘below ground’
o
be generally spoon shaped and constructed to a depth immediately above the organic hard
pan layer or to a maximum depth of one (1) metre, which ever is the lesser,
o
approximately 15 to 20 metres long and 5 to 10 metres wide,
o
intersect a major ephemeral drainage line,
o
revegetate the pond margins with species consistent with the local habitat requirements
for the Wallum Sedge Frog, such as Restio spp...
If approved, ponds would be constructed as early within the Construction Phase as practically
possible. Once constructed, ponds would be monitored and their performance evaluated. The
following performance criteria, monitoring program and contingencies are proposed.
Performance Criteria
o
ponds are to contain surface water for a period >10 weeks per annum, for at least two of
the three year monitoring periods,
o
waters within ponds are to have a pH < 5 and an electrical conductivity < 350 uS.cm-1.
o
ponds are to contain a margin of emergent macrophytes > 200 mm thick,
o
ponds are not to contain fish.
Monitoring Program
o
Post construction, frog survey shall be undertaken on a seasonal basis (four times a year)
for the first two years and also include event (immediately after heavy rain) survey
between April and August for the Wallum Froglet and between September and April for
the Wallum Sedge Frog,
o
During survey the following activities shall also be undertaken,
i. water quality monitoring for the parameters of pH and electrical conductivity,
ii. recording of water depth and general environmental conditions.
Contingencies
o
ponds that contain fish shall be reduced in capacity and hydroperiod,
o
restoration of macrophytes shall be undertaken where margins < 200 mm thick,
o
new ponds shall be constructed when the water quality of existing ponds exceeds the
designated performance criteria for two of the three year periods, and
o
ponds shall be increased in capacity, have their liners checked or their catchment areas
increased where the hydroperiod does not accord with the required performance criteria.
Consideration shall however, be given to the seasonal conditions at those times.
October 2005
Page 24 of 30
Appendix B
Potential for Walking Trail between Tugun
Heights Conservation Park and 'Hidden
Valley' (Brown 2005)
October 2005
Page 25 of 30
Appendix C
Systematic Surveys for Coastal Planigale
(Planigale maculata) on Crown land and
adjacent GCAL Controlled Lands (Lewis 2005)
October 2005
Page 26 of 30
Appendix D
Fauna Survey of Lands Identified for
Compensatory Habitat for the Proposed Tugun
Bypass Project (Lewis 2005)
October 2005
Page 27 of 30
Appendix E
Vegetation Survey of Proposed Compensatory
Habitat Blocks A and E, Tweed Heads West
NSW, Tugun Bypass Project (Benwell 2005)
October 2005
Page 28 of 30
Appendix F
Proposed Tugun Bypass – Review of Wallum
Sedge Frog and Green-thighed Frog (Ingram
2005)
October 2005
Page 29 of 30
Appendix G
Stage 1 Assessment – Compensatory Habitat
Package for Tugun Bypass (Bali 2005)
October 2005
Page 30 of 30

2.0 Current Package (as proposed in the EIS/SIS)

Transcription

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