NOTICE OF FILING
This document was lodged electronically in the FEDERAL COURT OF AUSTRALIA (FCA) on 8/12/2017 9:04:47 AM AEDT and has been accepted for filing under the Court’s Rules. Details of filing follow and important additional information about these are set out below.
Details of Filing
Document Lodged: Statement of Agreed Facts File Number: VID1228/2017 File Title: FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER'S POSSUM INC v VICFORESTS Registry: VICTORIA REGISTRY - FEDERAL COURT OF AUSTRALIA
Dated: 8/12/2017 9:04:49 AM AEDT Registrar
Important Information
As required by the Court’s Rules, this Notice has been inserted as the first page of the document which has been accepted for electronic filing. It is now taken to be part of that document for the purposes of the proceeding in the Court and contains important information for all parties to that proceeding. It must be included in the document served on each of those parties.
The date and time of lodgment also shown above are the date and time that the document was received by the Court. Under the Court’s Rules the date of filing of the document is the day it was lodged (if that is a business day for the Registry which accepts it and the document was received by 4.30 pm local time at that Registry) or otherwise the next working day for that Registry.
Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR No. V1D1228 of 2017
FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER'S POSSUM INC Applicant
VICFORESTS Respondent
AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS
A. The parties agree upon the facts set out ·in this statement for the purposes of this proceeding, reserving their respective rights in respect of whether any particular facts are relevant.
B. The documents referred to in this document are taken to be part of, and incorporated in, this Agreed Statement of Facts.
1. The Applicant:
1.1 is an association incorp9rated under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 (Vic) in Australia;
1.2 during the two years immediately before the conduct to which the relief sought in the Applicant's originating application relates:
(a) has had objects or purposes that included the protection or conservation of, or research into, the environment; and
Filed on behalfof(name & role of party) Friends ofLeadbeater's Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) ... PanY._a _Ja_co_b_s ______Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel __ ..(03)83413100 Fax __ .(_03_._)_83_4_1_31_1_1 _____ Email Danya.Jacobs@enviroj,_u_st_ic_e._or_,._.a_:u ______Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) _CARL__TO_N_V_IC ____ 3_05_3 ______2
(b) has engaged in a Series of activities related to the protection or conservation of, or research into, theenvironment
1.3 during thetwo years immediately beforethe Applicant's application:
(a) has had objects or purposesthat included theprotection or conservation of, or research into, theenvironment; and
(b) has engaged in a series of activities related to the. protection or conservation of, or research into, the environment.
2. The Respondent (VicForests)is a State body established in 2003 unders 14 of theState
Own�dEnterprises Act 1992 (Vic).
3. One of theareas of Victorian State forestin which VicF orests plans and conducts logging
operations is the part of Victoria designated as the Central Highlands Regional Forest
AgreementArea (theCH RFA Area).
Timber Release Plan forthe Central Highlands RF AArea
4. In January 2017, VicForests prepared an "Approved Timber Release Plan Change" (the Timber Release Plan), which identified,by map, schedule and coupe number, areas of forest in theCH RF A Area, which are proposed forlogging.
4.1 The Timber Release Plan includes a number of maps and a schedule, which together identifythe areas of forestproposed forlogging as individual "coupes", each of which coupes is designatedby an identificationnumber.
4.2 The Timber Release Plan maps designate, among other things, the boundary, location and identification number of each coupe.
4.3 The Timber Release Plan schedule designates, among other things:
(a) each coupe identificationnumber;
(b) the net area in hectaresexpected to be logged withineach coupe boundary; 3
(c) the method of logging that will be used in each coupe, termed the "silviculture system";
(d) the nominated period in which logging is proposed in each coupe; and
(e) theoperational status of each coupe, as either "current"or "currentregen.", indicating either that logging has been completed and only activities associated with regenerating the coupes are still being undertaken, or that logging has not yet commence� or been completed.
5. On 5 January2017, VicF orests published:
5 .1 Notice of the "Timber Release Plan Change", as approved by VicForests, in the Victoria GovernmentGazette; and
5.2 the Timber Release Plan maps and schedule on the VicForests website.
Coupes that havebeen clear-felled
6. Between 2004 and 2017, VicForests clear-felled the following coupes within the CH RFA Area which are identifiedin theTimber Release Plan:
Nolans Gully logged coupes
6.1 297-511-0001 (Blowhard Dam);
6.2 · 297-511-0003 (Crawler);
Coles Creek logged coupes
6.3 297-538-0001 (Big Bull Fiddle);
6.4 297-538-0002 (Skinny Jim);
Mount Despair logged coupes
6.5 298-516-0001 (Glenview);
6.6 298-519-0003 (Flicka); Kalatha Creek logged coupe
6.7 298-874-0003 (Big Kahuna);
Beech Creek logged coupes
6.8 300-537-0005 (Mak:ulu);
Hermitage Creek logged coupe
6.9 300-941-0.008 (MurrindindiHeadwaters);
6.10 307-003-0024 (Anderson Mill);
6.11 307�505-0002 (Giant);
6.12 307-505-0011 (Guitar Solo);
Acheron logged coupes
6.13 309-507-0001 (Mont Blanc);
6.14 309-507-0003 (Kenya);
6.15 309-507-0004 (The Eiger);
The Triangle logged coupe
6.16 317-508-0008 (ProfessorXavier);
Ada Tree logged coupe
6.17 344-509-0009 (Ginger Cat);
6.18 348-506-0003 (Blue Vein); 5
Starlings Gap logged coupes
6.19 345-503-0005 (Bullseye);
6.20 345-505-0006 (Hairy Hyde);
6.21 345-506-0004 (Opposite Fitzies);
6.22 347-501-0005 (Big Blacksands Creek);
6.23 348-510-0008 (Returnof theTippy);
6.24 348-537-0005 (Tom Bowler);
New Turkey Spur logged coupe
6.25 348-515-0004 (Greendale);
Ada River logged coupes
6.26 348-517-0005 (Tarzan);
6.27 348-517-0006 (Jane);
6.28 348-517-0007 (Bomba);
6.29 348-517-0009 (Apeman);
Loch logged coupes
6.30 462-507-0008 (Estate);
Salvage Creek logged coupe
6.31 463-504-0009 (De Valera); and 6
Baw Baw logged coupe
6.32 483-505-0002 (Rowels),
(together, theLogged Coupes).
Proposed clear-felling
7. The Approved Timber Release Plan shows thatthe following coupes are proposed to be logged by thedear-fell method between 2017 and 2018 withinthe CH RF AArea:
Nolans Gully scheduled coupes
7.1 297-505-0001 (Goliath);
7.2 297-509�0001 (Shrek);
7.3 297-509-0002 (Infant);
7.4 297-511-0002 (Junior);
Sylvia Creek scheduled coupes
7.5 297-526-0001 (Gun Barrel);
7.6 297-530-0001 (Imperium);
7.7 297-530-0002 (Utopia);
Coles Creek scheduled coupe
7.8 297-538-0004 (Home & Away);
Mount Despair scheduled coupes
7.9 298-502-0003 (Chest); 7
Kalatha Creek scheduled coupe
7.10 298-509-0001 (SouthCol);
Beech Creek scheduled coupes
7.11 300-524-0002 (Waves);
7.12 · 300-539-0001 (Surfing);
Hermitage Creek scheduled coupes
7.13 307-505-0001 (DrumCircle);
Acheron scheduled coupe
7;14 309-507-0007 (White House);
Torbreck River scheduled coupes
7.15 312-007-0014 (Skupani);
7.16 312-508-0002 (Splinter);
7.17 312-503-0002 (Bhebe);
Salvage Creek scheduled coupe
7.18 344-501-0014 (Salvage Creek);
Ada Tree Scheduled co11pe
7.19 344-509-0007 (Blue Cat); 8
Starlings Gap scheduled coupes
7.20 345-504-0005 {Starlings Gap);
7.21 · 345-505-0006 (Hairy Hyde);
Mount Bride scheduled coupes
7.22 345-526-0003 (Louisiana);
7.23 34�-526-0004 (Bourbon Street);
New Turkey Spur scheduled coupe
7.24 348-504-0005 (Gallipoli);
Ada Riverscheduled coupes
7.25 348-518-0004 (Johnny);
7.26 348-519-0008 (Turducken);
Baw Baw scheduled coupe
7.27 483-�05-0018 (Diving Spur),
Proposed logging by the seed tree retention method
8. The Approved Timber Release Plan shows that the followingcoupes are proposed to be
logged by the seed tree retention method between 2017 and 2018 within the CH RFA
Area:
Mount despair scheduled coupes
8.1 298-510-0003 (Bridle); 9
Hermitage Creek scheduled coupes
8.2 307-505-0009 (Flute);
8.3 307-505-0010 (San Diego);
Starlings Gap scheduled coupes
8.4 345-504-0003 (Smyth Creek);
8.5 345-505-0009 (Blacksands Road);
Noojee scheduled coupe
8.6 462-504-0009 (Epiphanie);
Loch scheduled coupe
8.7 462-507-0009 (Jakop),
(the coupes identifiedat paragraphs 7 and 8 are, together, the Scheduled Coupes) ..
9. - The Central Highlands Forest Management Plan 1998 provides that:
9.1 Clear-felling involves the removal of all trees within the coupe, except those
retained forenvironmental purposes, in a single harvesting operation. Seedbeds are
then prepared by either high intensity burnsor mechanicaldisturbance.
9 .2 Seed tree involves the retention of about 5 to 10 trees per hectare which .carry
capsule crops for the supply of seed. The regeneration burnprepares the seedbed
and induces seed to fall fromthe retained trees.
9.3 Using either method;a minimumof 40 treesper 10 hectares should be retained.
10. TheCode of Practice forTimber Production 2014 (Code) defines"clearfall" to mean a
silvicultural method of harvesting a coupe whereby all merchantable trees, apart from
those to be retainedfor wildlife habitat, are removed'. 10
11. The Code defines "seed tree harvesting" to mean an even-aged silvicultural system in
which all live treesare felledapart from a number of uniformlydistributed trees retained
to provide seed forregeneration and habitat.
Leadbeater's Possum and Greater Glider· are listed threatened species under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)
12. The CH RF A Area is . the home to, among other species of fauna, populations of
Leadbeater's Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri) and Greater Glider (Petauroides
Volans).
Particulars
(a) Sightings of the Leadbeater's Possum in the CH RFA Area are recorded in a Geographic Information System (GIS) file maintained by the Victorian GovernmentDepartment of Environment, Land,Water and Planning carrying the filename "LBPAG_SITES_CHRFA" and which can be viewed on the internet at the Victorian Government website titled "Leadbeater' s Possum Interactive Map" located at lbp.cerdi.eq.u.au/possum_ map.php.
(b) Sightings of the Greater Glider in the CH RF A Area have been recorded by observers in video footage, stillphotographs and by the recording of sighting locations of Greater Gliders on handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, creatinga point location GIS file.
Records of the sightings of the Greater Glider in the CH RFA Area may be inspected at the office of the Applicant'·s solicitor during standard business hours. (c) Some sightingsof the Greater Glider in the CH RFA Area arerecorded in two GIS files maintained by the Victorian Government Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning carrying the filenames
"VBA- F AUNA25" and "VBA- FAUNAl 00" and which can be obtained via the VictorianGovernment website located at www.data.vic.gov.au. 11
13. On 11 July 2000, the Minister for the Environment and Heritage declared Leadbeater's
Possum to be listed as a threatened species in the endangered category by declaration
1ID.ders 178 of the Environment Protection and BiodiversityConservation Act 1999 (Cth)
(the EPBC Act).'
14. On 22 April 2015, the Minister for the Environment (the Minister) approved a
conservation advice and transferredthe Leadbeater's Possum to the critically endangered
category 1ID.derthe EPBC Act, with effect from2 May 2015.
15. On 2 May 2016, the Minister included the Greater Glider as a threatened species in the
vulnerable category 1ID.derthe EPBC Act. On 25 May 2016, the Minister approved, by
delegate, a conservation advice forthe species with effectfrom 5 May 2016.
Alleged significantimpact on listed �hreatened species under the EPBC Act
16. The Applicant alleges that the logging of the Logged Coupes has p.ad, is having or is
likely to have, andthe proposed logging of the Scheduled Coupes will or is likely to have,
a significantimpact:
16.1 on the Leadbeater's Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeaten) within the meaning
of ss 18(2)(a)-(b) and 18(3)(a)-(b) of the EPBCAct; and
16.2 on the Greater Glider (Petauroides volans) withinthe meaning of s 18(4)(a)-(b)
of theEPBC Act.
No approval under Part 9 of the EPBC Act
17. At the time of the logging of theLogged Coupes, there was no approval in operation
1ID.derPart 9 of the EPBC Act forthe harvesting of trees in the Logged Coupes.
18. There is no approval in operation 1ID.derPart 9 of the EPBC Act forthe harvesting oftrees
in the Scheduled Coupes. 12
Whether or not logging is in accordance with a Regional Forest Agreement
19. On 27 March 1998, the State of Victoria and theCommonwealth of Australia entered
into.theCentral Highlands Regional Forest Agreement (the CH RFA) in respect of the
CHRFAArea.
20. The CH RFA is a RFA forthe purpose of the Regional Forest AgreementsAct 2002 (Cth)
(theRFA Act).
21. The logging of the Logged Coupes was a forestryoperation forthe purposes of the RF A
Act.
22. The proposed logging of the Scheduled Coupes is a forestry operation forthe purposes
of the RFA Act.
23. Clause 5 of theCH RFA provides thatthe CH RFA will remain in forcefor 20 years. The
expiry date forthe CH RF A is 27March 2018.
24. Clause 36 of theCH RF A :l'rovides that, every fiveyears, a review of the performanceof
the CHRF A will be undertaken.
25. Clause 38 of theCH RF A provides thatthe mechanism forthe review will be determined
by bothParties beforethe end of thefive-year period and the review will be completed
within three months.
26. The firstfive-yearly review for the CH RF A was not undertakenwithin the firstfive-year
. period fixedby cl 36 of the CHRFA.
27. The second five-yearly review for the CH RFA was not undertaken within the second
five-yearperiod fixedby cl 36 of theCH RFA.
28. The third five-yearly review for the CH RFA was not undertaken within the third five year period fixedby cl 36 of the CH RFA. 13
29. The following documents, annexed to this Agreed Statement of Facts, may be:relevant
to thedetermination of the separatequestion:
(a) National Forest Policy Statement 1992 (referred to in cl 7 of the CH RFA as the
basis for thatAgreement and also referredto in cls 51, 82 and in Attachment1 );
(b) JANIS Report (as definedin clause 2 of the CH RFA, referredto in other defined
terms, and referredto in cls 53, 61 and Attachment 1);·
(c) The East Gippsland Regional Forest Agreement (referredto in cl 36 of theCH RFA
and Attachment 2);
(d) The CH RFA;
(e) Criteria and Indicators forSustainable Forest Management in Victoria (as required
by cls 48 and 50, and referredto in cl 36, of CH RFA);
(f) Approved conservation advice forLeadbeater's Possum;
(g) Approved conservation· advice forGreater Glider.
Dated: 7 December 2017
<--..L--. �.( s..., �=> -- �7.HF,��S., -- ...... � ······························ Environmental Justice Australia �Kenzie Lawyers forthe Applicant Lawyers forthe Respondent
Danya Jacobs Environmental Justice Australia Andrew Charles Stewart Prowse 60 Leicester Street, Carlton 3053 Baker & McKenzie An Australian Legal Practitioner Level 19. 181 William Street Melbourne, within the meaning of the (Victoria) An Australian legal practitioner within the Legal Profession Uniform Law meaning of the Legal Profession Uniform Law (Victoria) 14
Schedule
No. VID1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia J;)istrictRegistry: Victoria Division: General
First intervener COMMONWEALTHOF AUSTRALIA
Second intervener STATE OF VICTORIA No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR
FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant
VICFORESTS Respondent
ANNEXURE 1 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS
National Forest Policy Statement (2nd Ed.) 1995
Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053
15 NATIONAL FOREST POLICY STATEMENT
A NEW FOCUS FOR AUSTRALIA'S FORESTS
December 1992 Second edition 1995
16 © Commonwealth of Australia 1992, 1995
Information presented in this document may be copied provided that full acknowledgment is made.
Printed on Australian-made recycled paper.
ii 17 FOREWORD
During the past decade there has been considerable debate, both within Australia and internationally, about global and domestic environmental issues, including the use and management of forests. The global focus culminated in the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development in Rio de Janiero in June 1992, at which Australia endorsed the Global Statement of Principles on Forests and signed a number of conventions relating to Biological Diversity and Climate Change.
The Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments attach the utmost importance to sustainable management of Australia's forests. In order to achieve the full range of benefits that forests can provide now and in the future, the Governments have come together to develop a strategy for the ecologically sustainable management of these forests. The strategy and its policy initiatives will lay the foundation for forest management in Australia into the next century.
This Statement has been jointly developed by the Commonwealth, States and Territories through the Australian Forestry Council and the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council in consultation with other relevant government agencies, the Australian Local Government Association, unions, industry representatives, conservation organisations and the general community. The Statement was signed by all participating Governments, with the exception of Tasmania, at the Council of Australian Governments' meeting, held in Perth in December 1992. Tasmania became a signatory to the Statement on 12 April 1995. The Statement has been developed concurrently with the development of the Ecologically Sustainable Development National Strategy and the National Greenhouse Response Strategy.
In endorsing this Statement, we commit our respective Governments to implement, as a matter of priority, the policies in it for the benefit of present and future generations of Australians. We acknowledge that implementation of policies requiring funding will be subject to budgetary priorities and constraints in individual jurisdictions.
Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia
iii 18 Premier of the State of New South Wales
Premier of the State of Victoria
Premier of the State of Queensland
Premier of the State of Western Australia
Premier of the State of South Australia
Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory
Chief Minister of the Northern Territory
Premier of the State of Tasmania
iv 19 CONTENTS
Page
FOREWORD iii
1 INTRODUCTION 1
2 THE VISION 3
3 NATIONAL GOALS 4
4 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES 6
4.1 Conservation 6
4.2 Wood production and industry development 15
4.3 Intergovernmental arrangements 21
4.4 Private native forests 26
4.5 Plantations 28
4.6 Water supply and catchment management 32
4.7 Tourism and other economic and social opportunities 32
4.8 Employment, workforce education and training 35
4.9 Public awareness, education and involvement 37
4.10 Research and development 38
4.11 International responsibilities 39
5 IMPLEMENTATION 41
ATTACHMENT A 'Forest Practices Related to Wood Production in Native Forests: national principles' — an extract
GLOSSARY
v 20 1 INTRODUCTION
This Statement outlines agreed are also important in the development objectives and policies for the future of of a national forest policy. Australia's public and private forests. The Commonwealth Government is It is the joint response of the responsible for coordinating a national Commonwealth, State and Territory approach to both environmental and Governments to three major reports on industry-development issues. It has an forest issues — those of the interest in achieving the efficient and Ecologically Sustainable Development effective management of the nation's Working Group on Forest Use, the resources, including a national National Plantations Advisory approach to forest issues. Committee, and the Resource Assessment Commission's Forest and In developing this Statement, the Timber Inquiry — and it builds on the Commonwealth, State and Territory 1983 National Conservation Strategy Governments have been mindful of the for Australia initiated by the many values that Australia's forests Commonwealth Government and the have, of forests' role in the full suite of 1986 National Forest Strategy for ecological processes that sustain life Australia developed by the Australian on this continent and their function as Forestry Council. habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, and of the contribution that The three levels of government in forest-based activities make to the Australia have specific interests in and national economy and regional and responsibilities for forest management. local employment. State and Territory governments have primary responsibility for forest Australia's forest estate comprises a management, in recognition of the range of forest types. It is often constitutional responsibility of the characterised by marked regional States for land use decisions and their differences, reflecting different forest ownership of large areas of forest. The values and opportunities for different States and Territories have enacted uses. These differences may legislation that allocates forest land necessitate differing management tenures and specifies the approaches. administrative framework and policies within which public and private forests Managing Australia's forests in a are managed. sustainable manner calls for policies, by both governments and landowners, Local governments have that can be adapted to accommodate responsibilities for local land use change. Pressures for change may planning and rating systems, which result from new information about affect public and private forest forest ecology and community attitudes, management and use. new management strategies and techniques (such as those that Private landowners — collectively, as incorporate land care and integrated managers of large tracts of forest or catchment management principles), cleared land suitable for plantations — and new commercial and non- commercial opportunities for forest 1
21 use. These pressures may affect the forests themselves.
This Statement provides a framework within which pressures for change can be identified and accommodated so as to ensure that the Australian community derives optimal benefit from its forests and forest resources. It also reflects the resolutions of the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment, which was signed by the Commonwealth, States and Territories and local governments. The Agreement describes a process of consultation and cooperation designed to protect Australia's natural and cultural heritage in the context of conservation and development initiatives.
The Governments' vision for forest management, the national goals to achieve that vision, and the specific objectives and policy initiatives that will be adopted are described in this Statement. Many of the policy initiatives have already been undertaken to varying degrees in different States and Territories or by the Commonwealth.
In the following pages the term 'the Governments' refers collectively to the Governments of the Commonwealth, the States (other than Tasmania) and the Territories; the term 'the States' refers to the States and the Territories of Australia. The terms 'reserves' and the 'reservation system' mean National Parks and all other areas that have been specifically dedicated by government for the protection of conservation values.
2
22 2 THE VISION
The Governments share a vision of • The Australian community will ecologically sustainable management have a sound understanding of of Australia's forests. This vision has a the values of forests and number of important characteristics: sustainable forest management, and will • The unique character of the participate in decision-making Australian forested landscape processes relating to forest use and the integrity and biological and management. diversity of its associated environment is retained.
• The total area of forest is increased.
• There is a 'holistic' approach to managing forests for all their values and uses so as to optimise benefits to the community.
• Private forests are managed in an ecologically sustainable manner and in close cooperation with public forest managers, to complement the conservation and commercial objectives of public forests.
• A range of sustainable forest- based industries, founded on excellence and innovation, will be expanding to contribute further to regional and national economic and employment growth.
• Forests and their resources are used in an efficient, environmentally sensitive and sustainable manner.
• Forest management is effective and responsive to the community.
3
23 3 NATIONAL GOALS
The Governments agree that, to and to improve interaction between achieve their vision for the forest estate forest management agencies in and to ensure that the community order to achieve agreed and obtains a balanced return from all durable land use decisions. forest uses, eleven broad national goals must be pursued. These goals • Private native forests. The goal is to should be pursued within a regionally ensure that private native forests based planning framework that are maintained and managed in an integrates environmental and ecologically sustainable manner, commercial objectives so that, as far as part of the permanent native as possible, provision is made for all forest estate, as a resource in their forest values. The eleven broad own right, and to complement the national goals are as follows: commercial and nature conservation values of public native • Conservation. The goals are to forests. maintain an extensive and permanent native forest estate in • Plantations. One goal is to expand Australia and to manage that estate Australia's commercial plantations in an ecologically sustainable of softwoods and hardwoods so as manner so as to conserve the full to provide an additional, suite of values that forests can economically viable, reliable and provide for current and future high-quality wood resource for generations. These values include industry. Other goals are to biological diversity, and heritage, increase plantings to rehabilitate Aboriginal and other cultural values. cleared agricultural land, to improve water quality, and to meet other • Wood production and industry environmental, economic or development. The goal is for aesthetic objectives. Australia to develop internationally competitive and ecologically • Water supply and catchment sustainable wood production and management. The goals are to wood products industries. Efficient ensure the availability of reliable, industries based on maximising high-quality water supplies from value-adding opportunities and forested land and to protect efficient use of wood resources will catchment values. provide the basis for expansion in wood products manufacturing, • Tourism and other economic and which in turn will provide national social opportunities. The goal is to and regional economic benefits. manage Australia's forests in an ecologically sustainable manner for • Integrated and coordinated decision a range of uses, including tourism, making and management. The recreation and production of non- goals are to reduce fragmentation wood products. and duplication in the land use decision-making process between • Employment, workforce education the States and the Commonwealth and training. The goal is to expand
4
24 employment opportunities and the skills base of people working in forest management and forest- based industries.
• Public awareness, education and involvement. The goals are to foster community understanding of and support for ecologically sustainable forest management in Australia and to provide opportunities for effective public participation in decision making.
• Research and development. The goals are to increase Australia's national forest research and development effort and to ensure that it is well coordinated, efficiently undertaken and effectively applied. This research will expand and integrate knowledge about the many aspects of native forests, plantations, forest management, conservation, and forest product development.
• International responsibilities. The goals are to promote nature conservation and sustainable use of forests outside Australia and to ensure that Australia fulfils its obligations under relevant international agreements.
5
25 4 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Under the ecologically sustainable desirable activities. In this context, development approach accepted by the the establishment of plantations for Governments, the public and private wood production should be native forest estate will be managed for determined on the basis of the broad range of commercial and economic viability and international non-commercial benefits and values it competitiveness. can provide for present and future generations. Efficiently and sustainably • The Governments will seek managed public and private forests will complementary management of provide the basis for nature forests for all uses through conservation and maintaining forest integrated strategic planning and biological diversity, and for regional operational management across economic development and agencies with responsibility for employment opportunities in a wide forests in Australia. range of sectors, including wood production from native and plantation • There should be a sound scientific forests, tourism and recreation, water basis for sustainable forest supply, grazing and the pharmaceutical management and efficient resource industry. use.
Within this framework, and to meet the broad national goals specified in 4.1 Conservation Section 3, the Governments have identified a number of objectives and Two of the principal objectives of this agreed to undertake key policy Statement are the maintenance of an initiatives. extensive and permanent native forest estate in Australia and the protection of The objectives and policy initiatives are nature conservation values in forests. underpinned by the following agreed approaches to forest management: Maintaining this native forest estate in Australia will necessitate sustainable • The Governments will set the forest management on both public and regulatory framework for the use of private forested lands. This Statement native forests in order to achieve describes a range of forest social and environmental management requirements, incentives objectives. Within those and regulatory instruments designed to constraints, market forces should ensure that Australia's native forest determine the extent of resource estate is maintained. In addition, the use and the nature of industry National Landcare Program, which operations, within the parameters encompasses a number of of government industry policy. government and community-based programs such as Save the Bush and • Commercial uses of forests One Billion Trees, is already in (including wood production) that are operation with a view to maintaining based on ecologically sustainable remnant vegetation, increasing native practices are appropriate and tree cover throughout Australia, and
6
26 rehabilitating degraded agricultural ecologically sustainable development. land. The objective here is the management of public native forests so as to retain The protection of the full range of forest the full suite of forest values over time. ecosystems and other environmental The Governments acknowledge, values is fundamental to ecologically however, that some uses, including sustainable forest management. It non-commercial uses, may inevitably entails the maintenance of the compromise other values, such as ecological processes that sustain tourism and recreation values, at least forest ecosystems, the conservation of in the short term. the biological diversity associated with forests (particularly endangered and The nature conservation objectives are vulnerable species and communities), being pursued in three ways. First, and the protection of water quality and parts of the public native forest estate associated aquatic habitats. will continue to be set aside in dedicated nature conservation reserve The Governments recognise the systems to protect native forest unique nature of Australia's biota and communities, based on the principles that the natural inter-relationship of comprehensiveness, adequacy and between native flora and fauna is representativeness. The reserve essential for the health of the forest system will safeguard endangered and ecosystem. Accordingly, they will vulnerable species and communities. manage for the conservation of all Other areas of forest will also be species of Australia's indigenous forest protected to safeguard special areas fauna and flora throughout those and to provide links where possible species' ranges, and they will maintain between reserves or other protected the native forest cover where a areas. Nature conservation reserves reduction in this cover would will be managed so as to protect their compromise regional conservation values. Second, there will be objectives, consistent with ecologically complementary management outside sustainable management. The reserves, in public native forests that Governments also recognise that are available for wood production and maintaining the integrity of native other commercial uses and in forests forests and plantings in urban areas is on unallocated or leased Crown land. important for conserving nature in Third, the management of private those environments. forests in sympathy with nature conservation goals will be promoted. The Governments agree to manage public native forests for the protection of A National Strategy for the Conservation the range of other conservation values, of Biological Diversity is being such as wilderness and heritage developed jointly by the Governments to values, cultural significance (including ensure that biological diversity survives significance to Aboriginal people), and and flourishes. That strategy will landscape and aesthetic attributes. complement actions being taken by the State Governments have already made States to protect high conservation considerable progress towards values, including biological diversity meeting these objectives. and endangered species.
The Governments also acknowledge Within the context of the that a variety of uses of public native Intergovernmental Agreement on the forests is desirable, provided those Environment, the Governments see this uses comply with the principles of Statement as a primary means by
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27 which the objectives of the National system to determine any further action Strategy for the Conservation of that may be required to complete its Biological Diversity will be development. They agree that the accomplished in forest habitats. system of reserves should be reviewed and its development completed as a In developing the nature conservation matter of priority. reserve system and forest management approaches in other • Accordingly, the Governments will public native forests, each Government establish a working group of will, where possible, ensure that technical experts under a Steering effective corridor systems link reserves, Committee of the Australia and refuges and areas with a relatively large New Zealand Environment and range of altitudinal and other Conservation Council (ANZECC) geographical variation so as to take into and the Australian Forestry Council account the possible impacts of climate (AFC), in consultation as change. appropriate with other ministerial councils, to make In relation to climate change, the recommendations to the Governments acknowledge the need, Governments on broad criteria on identified in the National Greenhouse which to base reserve systems to Response Strategy, to manage forests protect the nature conservation so as to maintain or increase their values of forests. The criteria will 'carbon sink' capacity and to minimise be based on the principles of the emission of greenhouse gases comprehensiveness, adequacy and from forest activities. representativeness.
Moreover, the Governments agree that Within these principles, the working the representative areas for reservation group will consider such issues as will, in the first instance, be drawn from the design and rationalisation of Crown lands. Purchase of private land reserve boundaries, the area for reservation purposes is appropriate required to maintain viable in cases where high conservation populations and genetic diversity, values are inadequately represented the need for replication of protected on Crown land and where communities, and the protection of complementary management practices rare, vulnerable and endangered on those private lands are unlikely to species, in line with ANZECC's adequately protect those conservation current development of a national values or provide for public amenity. strategy to protect endangered species.
Nature conservation and wilderness The working group will also consider reserves how the principles of It is important that Australia has a comprehensiveness, adequacy and comprehensive, adequate and representativeness relate to representative network of dedicated reserves to protect wilderness and secure nature conservation areas, their definition, and criteria reserves for forests and reserves for based on those principles. It will protecting wilderness. Some State consult with other appropriate Governments have already made agencies as necessary and provide significant progress towards this goal. recommendations for the The Governments agree to review the consideration of the Governments. appropriateness of the existing reserve
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28 Further, the working group will build • The Governments will ensure that on existing work in the development unique features and heritage values of the current nature conservation of conservation significance are reserve system and will draw on protected as part of the overall other sources of information as reservation systems. necessary. • ANZECC and the AFC will report • In progressively developing the regularly to the Governments on nature conservation reserve system progress in establishing the and reserves to protect wilderness reserve systems. This reporting will areas, the Governments will give be consistent with the reporting priority to reserving those forested mechanism provided for in the areas that best meet the criteria Ecologically Sustainable adopted jointly by the ministerial Development National Strategy. councils and endorsed by the Governments. Strategy to protect old-growth forests • In situations where the and wilderness Commonwealth has been invited by The Governments have agreed to a the States to assist in assessing strategy designed to conserve and the adequacy of the existing reserve manage areas of old-growth forests systems, the Commonwealth will, and wilderness as part of the reserve when requested, consider support system. The strategy acknowledges for the assessment process and the significance of these areas to the the establishment of new reserves, Australian community because of their including those possibly very high aesthetic, cultural and nature established as part of the National conservation values and their freedom Strategy for the Conservation of from disturbance. This strategy builds Biological Diversity. Such on the current management regimes consideration will be on a for such areas. case-by-case basis. In recent years the wood production • The Governments will provide industry has relied less on old-growth adequate resources for managing forests and drawn increasingly on their respective nature conservation regrowth native forests and plantations. reserve systems. In accordance The Governments' agreed approach to with accountability principles conserving and managing old-growth pertaining to public sector forests will facilitate continuation of this management, the financial transition. Further, other strategies in accounts of conservation reserve this Statement — such as those management will be publicly relating to plantations and industry reported. development and workforce education and training — will facilitate the • The Governments will continue to industry's move from old-growth to develop management plans to regrowth and other managed native guide management of reserves to forests and plantations. achieve adequate protection of nature conservation and heritage The Governments' agreed approach to values. The development of the conserving and managing old-growth management plans will incorporate forests and forested wilderness has community consultation. five basic elements:
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29 • First, agreed criteria for old-growth thereafter. The Governments' have forests and wilderness will be agreed that their objective is to determined through the working complete, to the extent feasible, the group process already described. inclusion of any private forested land in the reservation network by • Second, using those criteria, the 1998. relevant State agencies will, as a matter of high priority, undertake • Fifth, the relevant management assessments of forests for agencies will develop management conservation values, including plans to appropriately protect old-growth values, and of forested old-growth forest and wilderness land for wilderness values. values.
• Third, until the assessments are completed, forest management Ecologically sustainable forest agencies will avoid activities that management and codes of practice may significantly affect those areas Ecologically sustainable forest of old-growth forest or wilderness management will be given effect that are likely to have high through the continued development of conservation value. integrated planning processes, through codes of practice and environmental • Fourth, forested wilderness areas prescriptions, and through will be protected by means of management plans that, among other reserves developed in the broader things, incorporate sustainable-yield context of protecting the wilderness harvesting practices. The values of all lands. For old-growth management plans will provide a set of forest, the nature conservation operational requirements for wood reserve systems will be the primary harvesting and other commercial and means of protection, supported by non-commercial uses of forest areas, complementary management including conservation reserves and outside reserves. The leased Crown land. Governments agree that, conditional on satisfactory To ensure that nature conservation agreement on criteria by the objectives are met in forests, the Commonwealth and the States, the management of public native forests comprehensive, adequate and outside the reserve system will representative reservation system complement the objectives of nature to protect old-growth forest and conservation reserve management. wilderness values will be in place Forest management agencies will by the end of 1995. The continue to assess forest areas for the Governments acknowledge, purpose of developing strategic however, that difficulties may arise management plans and, where in seeking to purchase any private necessary, operational harvesting land necessary for the reservation plans. As a consequence of these network by this date. Accordingly, forest assessments, areas that have they agree that the 1995 time frame important biological, cultural, will apply to forest drawn from archaeological, geological, recreational public lands. All necessary forest and landscape values will continue to from private land will be included, be set aside and protected from preferably by agreement of harvesting operations or managed landowners, in the reservation during operations so as to safeguard network as soon as possible those values.
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30 forest use and management to • Accordingly, and in keeping with the develop consistent nationwide 'precautionary principle', the State baseline environmental standards. Governments will undertake These will be put to Governments continuing research and long-term for endorsement, and met through monitoring so that adverse impacts the codes of practice. that may arise can be detected and redressed through revised codes of • The State Governments will ensure practice and management plans. that there is effective auditing of and compliance with codes of practice. The Governments agree that the AFC's set of national principles of forest The Governments agree that it is practices related to wood production in desirable to maintain and protect the native forests (see Attachment A) extent and ecological integrity of native should be applied to all public and forests on public land. private native forests in Australia. • Accordingly, the Governments will • The State Governments will ensure adopt the policy that further clearing that, for public native forests, of public native forests for existing or new codes of practice non-forest use or plantation are developed so as to conform establishment will be avoided or with the AFC's national principles. limited, consistent with ecologically In structure, these codes of practice sustainable management, to those may take different forms in different instances in which regional States, but they will be effective and conservation and catchment either legislatively based or legally management objectives are not enforceable through contractual compromised. agreements. They will also reflect 'best available practices'. The • State Governments will seek to codes are to apply to all ensure that local governments and commercial and high-impact non- other authorities with designated commercial uses of public forests. responsibility for management of They will be supported by effective public lands adopt policies prescriptions for non-commercial consistent with this approach to uses in these forests. They will land clearing and codes of practice. also apply to conservation reserves in forests and unallocated or The Governments recognise that leased Crown lands that are sustainable management of private forested, with the aim of ensuring native forests will be facilitated if that activities in these areas do not landowners view these forests as adversely affect the forests' long-term assets. ecological basis. The State Governments will regularly review • Sustainable management of private and revise the codes of practice in native forests will be encouraged light of improved knowledge of through a combination of measures ecologically sustainable that may include dissemination of management and with appropriate information about and technical industry and community support for forest management, consultation. education programs, conservation incentives, land-clearing controls, • The AFC and ANZECC will harvesting controls, and codes of establish a joint subcommittee on forest practice.
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31 About 11.2 million hectares of publicly owned native forest estate are either Data collection and analysis unallocated or occupied under lease Effective management and use of and may contain such forest types as forests must be based on a sound dry sclerophyll, cypress pine and understanding of forest ecosystems paperbark, which may be and their associated values. under-represented in the reserve systems or inadequately protected • The Governments will cooperate to under existing management regimes. improve the scope and extent of It is important that these forests are forest databases so that decision also managed effectively in accordance making and management are with ecologically sustainable based on the best available management principles and that their information. forest types are adequately represented in reserves. • The National Forest Inventory will continue to be developed. It will be • The State Governments will assess directed by a steering committee the conservation and economic representing the Governments. values of these lands and ensure This committee will jointly define that their management is consistent information requirements and with ecologically sustainable develop data exchange principles practices, including codes of between the Governments and with harvesting practice and other databases. Such principles land-clearing constraints. will cover, among other things, custodianship, maintenance and The Governments acknowledge the cost recovery. inconsistency that can arise in the management of private lands if codes of practice are applied to private forests Forest protection but are not stipulated for other uses of Protection of the conservation and private lands. commercial values of forests will necessitate protecting forest areas • The State Governments will seek to from the potentially harmful effects of encourage complem-entary diseases, weeds, pests (including feral management approaches for other animals), chemicals and wildfire. uses of private lands. Accordingly, the Governments agree to give high priority to the protection of In the case of plantations, the public forests from these agents. Governments have agreed that Further, since public and private lands are closely linked, active protection of • the AFC, through its Standing public forests needs to be coordinated Committee on Forestry and in with appropriate action on private consultation with the industry and lands. the public, will develop a set of national principles of forest practice • Forest management plans will for plantations. On the basis of identify priorities and cover the these principles, codes of practice range of actions to deal with threats for public and private plantations to forests. will be developed and adopted through legislative or non-legislative • The Governments will continue to means. work together to ensure that
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32 quarantine measures minimise the fuel reduction and to replicate the risk of the introduction or movement natural fires that are required to of plant diseases and pests. maintain biological diversity, taking environmental and economic • Through the AFC and ANZECC and values into account. in conjunction with the Australian Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Council, the Governments will develop strict guidelines for the use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals in native forests and plantations. These guidelines will be reflected in codes of forest and plantation practice. 4.2 Wood production and industry development • Forest management agencies will monitor and appropriately control Sustainable economic use of native the threat to publicly owned native forests and plantations is one of the forest ecosystems posed by feral principal objectives of this Statement. animals, exotic plants, pests and diseases. In this respect the AFC Wood production is a major and ANZECC will continue to work commercial use of Australia's forests. with other ministerial councils and It can be integrated with a range of other relevant bodies in developing other commercial and non-commercial the National Weeds Strategy and uses, among them nature the National Strategies for the conservation, recreation, tourism and Management of Vertebrate Pests. water catchment protection. The forest management agencies Ecologically sustainable management will adopt the principles and of native forests for wood production implement the relevant policies of involves maintaining a permanent these agreed strategies. native forest estate while balancing these uses. • Forest management agencies will cooperate with private landowners The following discussion of wood in developing and implementing production primarily concerns measures to protect adjacent public production from public native forests. and private forested lands from Sections 4.4 and 4.5 deal with wood harmful diseases, weeds and feral production from private native forests animals. and plantations.
Regardless of whether a forested area The wood products industry is drawing is in a conservation reserve or is being and will continue to draw wood from a managed for wood production and mix of sustainably managed softwood other commercial uses, management and hardwood plantations and native of fire will be necessary. forests.
• Forest management agencies and The Governments recognise that rural communities will develop and integrated harvesting of sawlogs and implement fire management plans pulplogs is an important use of native aimed at reducing the risk of forests and that it can be done in an wildfires. Management programs ecologically sustainable manner. In may include prescribed burning for certain circumstances integrated
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33 harvesting operations assist the product industry by encouraging sustainable management of forests by efficient management that minimises improving regeneration and forest wood production costs. growth. In this context, harvesting of wood, whether by selective felling, Efficient wood production and use can thinning or clear-felling, needs to also provide greenhouse benefits by comply with the codes of forest practice reducing greenhouse gas emissions discussed in Section 4.1. through minimising soil disturbance during harvesting, reducing milling Australia will continue to use waste, and producing long-lasting old-growth timber for many years. It will products. come from disturbed forests containing some old-growth trees and from The Governments agree that it is old-growth forests that are not required essential to foster a dynamic and for the nature conservation reserve efficient forest products industry that system described in Section 4.1. offers employment opportunities and economic benefits for the nation. Other forests not required for the Provided that social and environmental reserve system will also continue to be objectives are met, the Governments available to meet a range of will keep regulations to a minimum. In ecologically sustainable uses, order to attract new investment and including wood production. profitable value-adding projects, the Governments must establish clear and The State Governments will determine consistent policies for resource the amount of wood available from development, providing secure access public forests for sale to industry, taking to resources and consistent account of the following: environmental guidelines. Unnecessary impediments to market – decisions on the nature efficiency and access will be removed. conservation and wilderness reserve system; Measures have been introduced to encourage the development of – protection of ecological value-added forest industries. Among processes; them are accelerated depreciation of plant and equipment, facilitation of – requirements for other forest provision of equity capital to small uses, such as water catchment companies, a development allowance protection, flora and fauna for major infrastructure projects that conservation, recreation, and meet specific criteria, and liberalisation tourism development; of foreign investment policy guidelines. Furthermore, the Governments will – codes of forest practice. cooperate to offer to proponents of major projects a streamlined and coordinated Commonwealth–State Efficient use and value adding project-assessment process in The benefit to the community from instances where the Commonwealth using forests for wood production can has a statutory obligation in relation to be increased through the efficient use that project. This process will include of wood by industry. The State agreed periods within which the Governments recognise that they have Governments' requirements for a direct role in aiding the development environmental impact assessments of an internationally competitive forest will be agreed.
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34 unforeseen circumstances. In such The Governments are committed to an event the Commonwealth and providing certainty and security for State Governments will consult with existing and new wood products the project principal or principals industries to facilitate significant and the views of all parties will be long-term investments in value-adding taken fully into account. Withdrawal projects in the forest products industry. of resource will be a last resort, in To this end the Governments have which case the provisions for agreed, subject to statutory alternative arrangements in the requirements, on the following Commonwealth-State project initiatives to satisfy the commercial agreement will apply. The requirements of potential investors: Commonwealth notes that, where it has previously been involved in • Completion of comprehensive changes to the pattern of land use, regional assessments, as outlined assistance has been provided to in Section 4.3, and negotiation of a facilitate the process of structural Commonwealth-State regional adjustment so that parties are not agreement to form the basis for disadvantaged. The meeting wood production, nature Commonwealth will continue with conservation and other forest this approach. allocations. In this respect the Commonwealth will give full faith The Governments will seek to assist and credit to accredited State industry development in a number of assessment processes, practices other ways. and procedures, consistent with the Intergovernmental Agreement on • The Governments will continue ot the Environment. support the introduction of higher value adding uses of wood and • For firm and specific value adding greater log recovery and utilisation projects meeting guidelines agreed rates through new technologies. In by the Commonwealth and the this context the Industry States, the Governments will Commission will conduct an Inquiry provide either specific legislation or into opportunities for adding value an intergovernmental project to Australia's forest products. The agreement, where this is a Inquiry will examine possible necessary prerequisite for the impediments to the expansion of project to proceed. This legislation the forest products industry and or agreement, together with State- recommend ways of removing enterprise contractual agreements those impediments. These that guarantee the long-term supply objectives will also continue to be of wood resources to the project, supported through research funding will define 'up front' the commercial and as priority areas under the contractual basis providing security research and development program of wood supplies for the project. (see Section 4.10).
• The Commonwealth will not seek to • The States will make provision for vary the agreed results of the clearly defined tradeable resource comprehensive regional rights for the industry. assessment process reflected in the project agreement, except • The National Environmental where expressly provided for, such Guidelines for New Bleached as in defined exceptional or Eucalypt Kraft Pulpmills will be
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35 endorsed by the State Governments the current annual renewal period and covered in Commonwealth– will be considered where those State agree-ments, with the State forests are covered as part of a Governments retaining the right to comprehensive regional apply more stringent standards to assessment and a take local environmental factors into Commonwealth–State regional account. The Governments will agreement. These longer term continue to monitor developments approvals will be consistent with and investigate alternative other Commonwealth policies and technologies in the context of the commitments. periodic review of the National Guidelines. They will also consider • Commonwealth–State regional the need for national environmental agreements based on guidelines for other pulping and comprehensive regional bleaching processes. assessments (see Section 4.3) or agreements between a State and The issue of efficient use and value- the Australian Heritage added processing is particularly Commission on the management relevant to the large volumes of of forests listed on the Register of pulpwood that are produced during the National Estate (including the integrated harvesting operations in application of harvesting codes of native and plantation forests. At practice) will constitute the basis on present the Commonwealth which the Commonwealth will meet Government approves the export of its legislative obligations under unprocessed wood and woodchips s. 30 of the Australian Heritage from integrated harvesting operations Commission Act 1974. For areas and sawmill residues, subject to not covered by comprehensive controls aimed at ensuring that regional assessments, existing environmental values are protected, processes and annual export that the price obtained is consistent approvals will apply. with prevailing world market prices, and that unprocessed wood is not exported • In relation to pulpwood production if it is commercially feasible to process from native forests, the and add value to it in Australia. The Governments will ensure that export of woodchips derived from domestic processors are given the integrated harvesting operations and first opportunity to purchase the sawmill residues enables the resource at a price acceptable to community to derive a return from felled the grower. This policy will come wood that is unsuitable as sawlogs into effect when consideration is and is not required by domestic given to major changes or renewals processors. to wood resource access.
• The Commonwealth will remove • The Commonwealth Government controls over the export of will review the adequacy of existing unprocessed public and private mechanisms pertaining to transfer plantation wood, subject to the pricing in wood products. application of codes of practice to protect environmental values. Structural adjustment and improving • Approvals for the export of international competitiveness woodchips from public and private Like all industries, the forest and wood native forests for terms longer than products industries need to adjust
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36 constantly to changing consumer efficiency and productivity preferences, changing market improvements, and to adopt conditions, and changes in the internationally competitive 'best availability and quality of the wood practices'. resource. Wherever possible, market forces should determine the direction • The Governments will continue to in which the adjustment takes place. support and promote, among the Although this is essentially a matter for forest and wood products industry, government does have a role industries, a range of industry to play in minimising any adverse development programs designed to social and economic effects, enhance the international particularly on regional communities, competitiveness of Australian where alternative employment industry. opportunities may not always be available. Communication between Where the Commonwealth decides governments, industry, unions and that it is appropriate for it to provide conservation organisations structural adjustment assistance to The Governments recognise the affected communities and industries, importance of enabling those that may the type of assistance will be assessed be directly affected by policy decisions on a case-by-case basis and be to have an input into the policy subject to needs-based criteria. In development process. general, the assistance measures could include relocation, retraining, • The Commonwealth will establish a redeployment and social adjustment policy advisory body, with balanced components. representation, to provide advice on specific forest product industry and Changes involving increasing conservation issues. The dependency on wood from regrowth effectiveness of this body will be forests and plantations will continue to reviewed before the end of 1995. require industry to invest in new technology and practices, and in some circumstances to relocate. The Wood pricing and allocation adjustment implications of this are The pricing and allocation system for significant. The objective is to ensure wood from public native forests has a that adjustments necessitated by the major bearing on the structure and changing nature of Australia's forest efficiency of the wood products industry resources lead to more competitive and on the return to the community and viable wood products industries, from use of a publicly owned resource. while at the same time minimising The State Governments will encourage social dislocation and meeting the use of logs for their highest net environmental standards. value-added end use. Accordingly, they will adopt the following principles as The Governments acknowledge their the general basis for pricing and role in facilitating investment in industry allocation arrangements for wood from restructuring in the sawmilling and public native forests: processing sectors. In keeping with this, there is a range of existing – Prices will be market based, at government initiatives designed to help least cover the full cost of Australian industries to readjust to efficient management (including changing circumstances, to invest in regeneration) attributable to
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37 wood production, include a fair accountability of their commercial return on capital, and provide an forest operations, including through adequate return to the the possible application of the community from the use of a principles and provisions of the public resource. Trade Practices Act 1974.
– Harvesting rights will reflect • The pricing and allocation policies security of supply for wood for public plantations will be users, will be clearly defined, determined on the basis of and will be transferable when commercial criteria, although the this does not result in the Governments acknowledge that creation of excessive market some plantations established in the power. past for other than purely commercial reasons may not meet – The allocation system will be these criteria. flexible and will involve competitive bidding arrangements for appropriate Wood production and community amounts of the resource, thus service obligations enabling the entry of new Governments have a shared processors and allowing small responsibility to ensure that the operators to compete for niche community receives the optimum return markets. from all uses of public native forests. This involves two aspects of Forest services have made significant management of those forests: first, changes to their pricing and allocation meeting community service obligations systems. They will continue to develop such as providing recreation access their systems to reflect the foregoing and facilities, and meeting other social principles, including approaches and conservation objectives; second, involving competitive bidding systems managing forests for commercial where regional wood markets exist. products and uses. Where competitive markets are not achievable, prices set through To effectively account for these different administratively determined allocation responsibilities, the costs of meeting systems should at least cover the community service obligations and efficient costs of wood production and commercial wood operations should provide an adequate return to the be clearly separated and accurately community. reported. In this way the Governments and the community will be able to • Forest services will, where feasible, determine the commercial and allocate a substantial proportion of community service performance of harvesting rights through forest services in accordance with competitive bidding, with varying stated management objectives. time frames and varying wood volumes, to allow opportunities for Assessment of commercial the entry of new processors and performance requires accounting niche operators. conventions that allow forest services to accurately and fairly report on their • Following the current review of production of wood and other competition policy, the State commercial activities. Costs incurred Governments will consider options in the commercial management of for increasing the public forests and plantations in one year will
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38 frequently not generate a financial The Commonwealth Government has a return for many years. Furthermore, number of nature conservation and determining the basis for allocation of heritage obligations arising from Acts costs to commercial and of Parliament and international non-commercial activities is crucial. conventions, and it needs to assure itself that the processes and • Accordingly, the Governments will mechanisms used allow it to honour its cooperate in carrying out an urgent responsibilities and satisfy its review of the relevant accounting interests. issues for native forests and plantations, with a view to The Intergovernmental Agreement on establishing suitable accounting the Environment identifies the approaches to identifying circumstances in which the commercial costs and returns. Commonwealth Government may have This will be done in close an interest in land use consultation with the Australian decision-making processes. These Accounting Research Foundation, circumstances involve the national which is undertaking a study of interest or international responsibilities accrual accounting conventions for and include the following: long-term regenerative assets. – where the Commonwealth is • Consistent with this, forest services required to consider the impact will report on commercial of proposals on places listed on performance (covering the costs of the Register of the National and returns from wood production Estate, including where a State from native forests and plantations) Government (with industry) is and publicly report this separately required to seek from the costs of and returns from Commonwealth approval for other services such as conservation export licences or foreign and the provision of recreation investment to use areas on the facilities. Register of the National Estate;
– where a State Government (with 4.3 Intergovernmental industry) seeks Commonwealth arrangements involvement in relation to security of resource access; Land use decision making Under the Australian Constitution, State – where, in the light of scientific Governments have primary evidence, the Commonwealth responsibility for land use decision Government has obligations making and management. As a under international conventions; consequence, State processes are well established, and they are – where the Commonwealth periodically reviewed to take account of Government, in conjunction with community priorities. Several States a State Government, proposes are introducing changes to increase an area for nomination under the opportunities for consultation, to reflect World Heritage Convention; changes in societal values, and to promote more effective State– – where the regional implications Commonwealth cooperation in land of proposals for the use of a use decision making. resource transcend State
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39 boundaries and affect two or more jurisdictions; – consideration of all significant impacts; – where there are relevant responsibilities under – mechanisms to resolve conflict Commonwealth Acts of and disputes over issues which Parliament such as the arise during the process; Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1974; – consideration of any international or national – where other conditions under implications. the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment The Governments believe it is involve the Commonwealth important to ensure that they have Government. access to the same information and that as far as possible they consider Local governments also have an issues concurrently rather than interest in decision-making processes sequentially, so as to avoid duplication that can influence regional land use and fragmentation in decision making. and as a consequence the nature of regional communities and economies. The Intergovernmental Agreement on The Governments agree that strategic the Environment land use decision making in relation to The Intergovernmental Agreement on forests should be based on the Environment provides for the comprehensive evaluation of the identification of the interests of both the potential uses and values of a Commonwealth and State particular area. As provided for in the Governments in land use decision Intergovernmental Agreement on the making and the accommodation of Environment, the Governments agree those interests where there are joint on the following: responsibilities. The objective is to reduce uncertainty about land use – the application and evaluation of decisions by adopting a cooperative comparable, high quality data decision-making process that results which are available to all in agreed and durable decisions. Such participants in the process; an approach should lead to a more efficient resolution of land use issues – the assessment of the regional and result in more timely decisions cumulative impacts of a series about land use for conservation, new of developments and not simply development projects, or other the consideration of individual purposes. development proposals in isolation; In keeping with the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment, the – consideration of the regional Commonwealth and the relevant State implications where proposals Government will adopt the following for the use of a resource affect process: several jurisdictions; – When a regional land use issue – consultation with affected is identified by either level of individuals, groups and government, the Commonwealth organisations; and the State concerned will
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40 jointly determine whether the The Governments will adopt the Commonwealth Government approach that, once decisions in has an interest in the matter. which they have a mutual interest are made, agreements will be used to – Where there is disagreement as formalise the decisions and to clearly to whether or not there is a identify the appropriate management Commonwealth interest, the and monitoring arrangements. Governments concerned will 'use their best endeavours' to If the Governments agree that the resolve the disagreement at process of accreditation is unlikely or Heads of Government level. unable to meet all the obligations of the Commonwealth, the Governments – Where there is a will also use other measures, such as Commonwealth interest in an comprehensive regional environmental matter it may assessments. accredit a State's processes. In the event that the Commonwealth is of the view Comprehensive regional that the processes are assessments inadequate to accommodate the The Governments have identified a Commonwealth interest, the single, comprehensive regional State will consider whether it assessment process whereby the wishes to review and modify its States can invite the Commonwealth systems and processes and will to participate in undertaking all consult with the Commonwealth assessments necessary to meet on terms of reference for such a Commonwealth and State obligations review. Where the for forested areas of a region. Commonwealth has accredited a State system or process, the Comprehensive regional Commonwealth will give full faith assessments will involve the and credit to the results of that collection and evaluation of system or process when information on environmental and exercising its own heritage aspects of forests in the responsibilities. region. The Commonwealth will ensure that its evaluation of – A State may use the same information is efficient, avoiding approach where it considers that duplication and delays wherever its interests can be possible and taking into account the accommodated by accrediting analyses of other Commonwealth Commonwealth processes. agencies where appropriate.
Wherever possible, the These assessments will provide the Commonwealth will use this basis for enabling the Commonwealth accreditation process. In the case of and the States to reach a single regional assessments of national agreement relating to their obligations estate values having been jointly for forests in a region. undertaken by the Australian Heritage Commonwealth obligations include Commission and State authorities, the assessment of national estate values, Commonwealth will give 'full faith and World Heritage values, Aboriginal credit' to these assessments. heritage values, environmental impacts, and obligations relating to international conventions, including
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41 those for protecting endangered those developments do not require species and biological diversity. substantial alteration to the agreed forest management guidelines for • The relevant State agencies jointly the region. with the Australian Heritage Commission, acting as the agent • The Governments have agreed of the Commonwealth, and with that, in undertaking these joint community and industry comprehensive assessments, consultation, will coordinate the information that is already collection of the information available will be used whenever necessary for assessments. possible in order to avoid duplication, to minimise costs, and • The relevant Commonwealth to expedite decision making. agencies will undertake analyses, When it is agreed that existing based on the information collected, information for a particular region in order to meet their obligations. is insufficient for the purpose, Wherever possible, these regional surveys will be analyses will be undertaken undertaken to obtain the required concurrently and take into account additional data on a case-by-case the analyses of other basis. Commonwealth agencies.
• The Commonwealth-State regional Integrated management agreement resulting from the If the community is to optimise the assessment will also cover benefits that can accrue from the many guidelines for all aspects of uses of Australia's forests, it is ecologically sustainable important to integrate policy management of the forests in development, strategic planning and question, taking into account the operational management between and existing regulatory framework in within forest management agencies, at the States and building on forest the organisational and regional field management strategies and levels. practices. In this respect, the guidelines will cover, for example, Integrated strategic policy formulation, management for sustainable yield, planning and operational management the application and reporting of is being, and will continue to be, codes of practice, and the pursued at a number of levels: protection of rare and endangered intergovernmental; ministerial council; species and national estate organisational and institutional; and values. They may also specify the operational. levels and types of disturbance that are acceptable for a particular The Governments fully support closer forest so as not to adversely affect integration and links between national estate and other governments, their departments and conservation values of that forest. forest management agencies. The Governments acknowledge that, • The regional agreement will also without strong links and an integration accredit the comprehensive of strategic decision making and regional assessment for the planning, management of forests for purpose of evaluating forest their full range of values and uses will resource use impacts of proposed be diminished. In keeping with this, the development projects, provided Governments express their clear intent
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42 to ensure that integration of strategic and the public to participate in the planning at the various levels identified development of strategic plans. occurs and is strengthened. • At the operational level, the States The Governments note, however, that a will ensure that management plans number of institutional structures are are developed by forest capable of achieving the essential management agencies, consulting objective of integrated forest with local government, regional management. Accordingly, they organisations and other authorities consider that each Government should as appropriate and providing determine the most appropriate opportunities for public institutional arrangements to be consultation. Operational adopted in its jurisdiction. management will be integrated to the greatest extent possible, The Governments have made the consistent with achieving agency following resolutions: objectives.
• At the intergovernmental level, integrated and coordinated decision 4.4 Private native forests making relating to forest management will be pursued As well as containing significant timber through the processes of the resources, native forests on private Intergovernmental Agreement on lands contain some ecosystems and the Environment, involving species that are not well represented in accreditation of processes and, nature conservation reserves. They where agreed, joint comprehensive also help to maintain environmental regional assessments. and aesthetic values and basic ecological processes, and under • At the ministerial council level, conditions of climate change they may ANZECC and the AFC will hold provide refuges or corridors for the sequential meetings, where movement of native species. practicable, with occasional joint meetings to discuss common Accordingly, the objectives in relation to agenda issues. private native forests are to encourage the maintenance of the existing private • At the organisational and native forest cover and to facilitate the institutional level, the Governments ecologically sustainable management will each determine the most of such forests for nature conservation, effective approach to achieving catchment protection, wood production integrated management of or other economic pursuits. conservation and commercial uses of forests. In particular, the The Governments recognise that these Commonwealth will give further objectives will be more easily achieved consideration to options for if landowners recognise the economic integrated or strengthened advantages that forests can provide. institutional arrangements for Encouraging private landowners to dealing with forest issues. More manage forests for long-term generally, each State Government economic use (such as for wood, other will seek to ensure that links forest products or commercial between and within agencies are conservation activities) by removing any fully effective and that opportunities unnecessary impediments or are available for local government disincentives will assist in this regard.
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43 and assistance through private Where private forest owners are forest councils, extension services, managing native forests for wood heritage agreements, voluntary production they will be encouraged to wildlife refuges and conservation manage for the highest wood values covenants, and other means such and to consider the economic potential as limited grants for private of improving sawlog productivity. management or, in special circumstances, purchase of forest Whilst encouraging the retention of to protect endangered species and native forests, the Governments communities in forest ecosystems. acknowledge that private forest owners may wish to clear native forest for a • The Governments will continue to range of economic uses. They agree emphasise, through Landcare and that land clearing can be permitted other community groups, the provided it complies with State and importance of maintaining private regional conservation and catchment forests as components of the management objectives, relevant permanent native forest estate and planning schemes and legislation. for their many environmental and commercial benefits. The Those State Governments that have not importance of incorporating forest already done so will establish management as economic strategies to ensure that regional components in whole-farm plans conservation, catchment management will be promoted through the land- and other objectives are not care movement. compromised, consistent with ecologically sustainable management. • By making the codes of practice for This may involve controls over land wood production in public native clearing and/or land use covenants forests applicable to private native between landowners and Government forests, the State Governments will or mechanisms to encourage retention continue to encourage private forest of native vegetation. This may include owners to ensure that their legislatively backed controls. management operations are of a high standard and protect nature The Governments' objectives will be conservation and catchment values. promoted through six specific initiatives: • Approvals for the export of woodchips from private native • The Governments will develop a forests for terms longer than the range of incentives and programs to current annual renewal period will promote sustainable management be considered where those forests of native forests on private land. are included in a comprehensive These incentives and programs will regional assessment and a be designed to ensure active Commonwealth–State regional management of private native agreement. forests for both ecologically sustainable wood production and • Through a comprehensive public nature conservation, so that the ruling by the Australian Taxation private native forest estate will Office, the Commonwealth will remain a permanent resource that clarify the taxation treatment of complements the public native native forests and plantations used forest estate. Programs may for commercial wood production include provision of technical advice (see Section 4.5). This ruling will
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44 be provided by the middle of 1993. plantations; these matters are Any further action on forestry discussed in Sections 4.2 and 4.10 taxation issues will be considered respectively. by the Commonwealth following the taxation ruling. The Governments agree that decisions to establish plantations for wood • The review of s. 75D of the Income production should rest on their Tax Assessment Act 1936, which is economic viability. Australia's scheduled for 1994–95, will assess commercial plantation resource the effectiveness of the section in already contributes significantly to the combating land degradation, domestic wood-processing industry including provisions dealing with and is dominated by softwoods; there expenditures for the protection of are also increasing market areas of native vegetation. opportunities for hardwood plantations. The contribution of forest management agencies and private industrial 4.5 Plantations growers to plantation development has been enormous and their continued Plantations can provide a wide range of involvement will provide stability and commercial, environmental and growth in the industry. aesthetic benefits to the community, and they will become increasingly The Governments recognise that, to important. Regardless of the purpose ensure a reliable supply of wood from for which they are planted, plantations plantations as feedstock for should be based on sustainable world-competitive processing plants, management techniques. large areas of plantation, such as those normally planted by private The Governments have several industrial and investment companies objectives in relation to Australia's or public forestry agencies, are plantation resource: to increase necessary. Accordingly, State and local commercial plantation development on governments will provide a planning cleared agricultural land and, where framework that facilitates the possible, to integrate plantation development of large-scale industrial enterprises with other agricultural land plantations. uses; to improve the productivity of existing plantation areas by means of All States share the policy, consistent improved technology, breeding of with ecologically sustainable genetically improved stock, and management, of not clearing public selection of species; and to continue to land for plantation establishment encourage industrial growers, and where this would compromise regional where appropriate public forestry conservation and catchment agencies, to expand their plantation management objectives. This is the base to satisfy specific requirements. position of Queensland and the Northern Territory. Further, South To achieve the Governments' Australia, Western Australia and the objectives it will be necessary to Australian Capital Territory have a ensure the impediments to plantation policy of not clearing public native development are minimal in areas forests for plantation development, and such as taxation, planning and access Victoria has a policy of not clearing to information. Pricing policies and public native forests for softwoods. export controls are also relevant, as are New South Wales supports the policy research and development relating to of not clearing for plantation
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45 development with the proviso that it • As mentioned in Section 4.4, the may undertake incidental clearing of Australian Taxation Office is to land it purchases. issue a comprehensive public ruling relating to private forestry In some circumstances it may be activities covering wood production appropriate to clear forests that have from native forests and plantation been severely affected by disease investments. Any further action on (such as 'eucalyptus dieback') so as to forestry taxation issues will be enable rehabilitation through based on the outcome of this ruling. replanting. • The Commonwealth will remove The States will adopt commercial controls on the export of approaches for their plantation unprocessed wood from private resources in a variety of ways. They plantations, as mentioned in will also continue to ensure that the Section 4.2. public plantation resource is actively managed in order to maximise net There is also a need for landowners to returns. be able to separate legal ownership of trees and the land on which they grow. The Governments see merit in having For example, landowners may wish to some commercial wood production raise money by creating an asset for integrated with other agricultural later sale while retaining ownership of pursuits. There is considerable scope the land, or they may wish to enter into for the commercial growing of wood to joint venture arrangements. be extended on cleared agricultural land, particularly in higher rainfall areas • Accordingly, where it has not that are close to markets. Plantations already occurred, the State on cleared agricultural land have the Governments will establish a potential to increase the area of wood sound legal basis for separating production and enhance regional the forest asset component from development. In some cases they can the land asset for the purposes of offer opportunities to increase selling timber. agricultural productivity and profitability and diversify farm income. In addition, Joint ventures between plantation they can play a major role in land and development companies and water conservation, and in the landowners are subject to the fund- rehabilitation of degraded lands. raising provisions of the Corporations Plantations on cleared agricultural land Law. The Commonwealth is can also provide a carbon sink, which conscious of the need to ensure that may have benefits in reducing the the legal framework regulating joint impacts of the enhanced greenhouse venture schemes adequately and effect. effectively protects the interests of investors and promotes commercial To minimise the taxation difficulties stability and efficiency in capital raising commercial wood producers face as a and formation. The provisions of the result of the concentrated nature of Corporations Law applying to fund- income derived from private forestry raising schemes, including joint operations, the ceiling on the Income venture arrangements, are currently Equalisation Deposit Scheme has being reviewed by the Australian Law been raised. Reform Commission and the Companies and Securities Advisory Committee.
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46 plantation development. In this regard • The Commonwealth will consider the States will take two actions: action relating to this matter following the completion of the • With appropriate public review in early 1993. involvement, the State Governments will pursue planning policies that The Governments recognise that the provide zoning suitable for long-term nature of plantation commercial planting on private investments, often in excess of twenty lands and give security to that years, can cause difficulties in zoning. Within this zoning attracting investment capital. When framework, tree planting and capital is committed for such a long subsequent harvesting for time before a return is received, commercial wood production will companies, individuals and farmers be an 'as of right' use. may be reluctant to invest in plantations. A solution to this problem • The State Governments will seek to is to make the trading of capital (for ensure that the rating basis used by example, shares) invested in plantation local government authorities developments more flexible and hence supports the retention of native more attractive. This would change the forests and expansion of the forest perception of plantations being a estate by removing disincentives to long-term investment whereby capital the conservation of native forests is locked up for decades to a and the establishment of perception of plantations being a plantations on cleared agricultural tradeable, short-term investment. land.
• The Commonwealth will encourage The Governments also recognise that the establishment of 'pooled there is a need for further public development funds' and sees them education and better training in relation as a useful mechanism for to plantation development, particularly promoting long-term investments, when such development is integrated including plantation development. with agriculture. Information about the These funds are investment financial, social and environmental companies that provide 'patient benefits of tree planting on cleared equity capital' for Australian land for commercial purposes needs companies, subject to some to be directed not only at farmers and conditions. Companies registered other landowners but also at as pooled development funds are investment advisers, bankers, concessionally taxed at a rate of 30 accountants and investment per cent rather than at the general institutions. Links with local Landcare company tax rate of 39 per cent. and other rural groups should also be The funds will provide an incentive encouraged. for companies and individuals to invest in a range of plantation • The Governments will assist private companies. plantation development by facilitating the provision of technical There is also a need for State and local advice and market information to governments to simplify planning private growers and other relevant procedures and to ensure that land parties, on a fee-for-service basis use planning controls and land rating as appropriate, through the systems do not discriminate against establishment of private forest councils or by means such as
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47 providing support for enhancing the vegetation resources is essential to the skills of extension officers. ecological and economic sustainability of those resources and to maintaining • The Governments will facilitate whole-catchment values. Forests demonstration opportunities on contribute significantly to the quality farms that integrate commercial and quantity of water supplies for wood production with farming. domestic, industrial and agricultural uses. As discussed in Section 4.10, the Governments support an enhanced The value to the community of a plantation research and development reliable, high-quality water supply is effort, particularly in relation to very great and the States will improved technology and processes, appropriately consider water availability tree breeding, species selection, land and quality in deciding land use capability assessment, and integration allocations or management of commercial wood production with prescriptions for public forests. agricultural activities. Forests are equally important for The Governments acknowledge the overall catchment maintenance and importance of reforestation for protection. The vegetative cover slows environmental and aesthetic purposes. run-off, thus mitigating flooding in the As with maintaining the existing tree catchment, and it reduces land cover on farms, reforestation can offer degradation from soil loss and major economic benefits for private erosion, which in turn reduces the level landowners: shelter for stock and of turbidity and sedimentation in crops; fodder; alleviation of soil streams and reservoirs. Forest cover, degradation problems such as particularly in catchment recharge erosion, waterlogging and salinity; zones, also reduces the development creation of predator habitats to assist of waterlogging and dryland salinity in pest control; and improving farm problems. amenity. Reforestation can also provide widespread community • The Governments will promote benefits by maintaining catchments integrated catchment management and providing aesthetic plantings to objectives among public and private enhance landscape and recreational forest owners through the values. Native plantings can also be application of codes of practice, important in facilitating the forest management plans and, conservation of native fauna through where appropriate, land-clearing the provision of feed sources and controls. In addition, by hollows for nesting and shelter. disseminating information through Landcare and other community • The Governments will seek to groups, the Governments will promote the wider benefits of promote among landowners the plantations through Landcare and objective of establishing and other community groups. maintaining forest.
4.6 Water supply and catchment 4.7 Tourism and other economic management and social opportunities
It is now recognised that integrated The Governments recognise that management of land, water and Australia's forests provide a broad
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48 range of economic and social applied to all users of forests (see opportunities. In addition to those Section 4.1) can minimise or avoid any already discussed, other forest-based negative environmental effects of economic activities include tourism, tourism. mining, grazing, and pharmaceutical, honey and seed production. They may • In consultation with the State also include production of other wood Governments and relevant industry products (for example, charcoal and organisations, the Commonwealth fuelwood). Recreation and Government will develop an employment opportunities are major ecotourism strategy for Australia as social benefits that forests can provide. an extension of the National Tourism Strategy. The ecotourism strategy will, among other things, cover the use of Australia's forests in National Parks and elsewhere for Tourism and recreation tourism. The Commonwealth will Economically, tourism is one of seek to facilitate ecologically Australia's most significant industries, sustainable tourism activities in and it has considerable potential for forests through funding research, future growth. In an increasingly marketing, the provision of competitive tourist market, Australia's interpretation facilities for visitors, natural environment is a major the training of tourism operators, attraction for domestic and overseas and the planning and management visitors. of tourism activities. Other elements of the broader ecotourism strategy Expanding opportunities for the use of are being developed concurrently. forests for tourism and recreation will result in many benefits to the • Where economically feasible and community, including increased consistent with management employment opportunities, enhanced objectives, the Governments will recreational facilities, and greater ensure the provision of appropriate appreciation of nature conservation infrastructure and visitor facilities, values. Many different tourism and including improved access and recreation activities take place in interpretation displays. forests, among them general recreation, sport and adventure The Australian Tourist Commission activities, and visits to appreciate and and a number of State tourism learn about the cultural and agencies have already established environmental values of these areas policies focussing on Australia's (ecotourism). natural environment, including forests; the objective is to seek opportunities to Without proper management, the realise the tourism potential of the expansion of forest tourism and natural environment. recreational use of forests could degrade the forest environment and its • In co-operation with appropriate ecological processes. It is, however, State agencies, the Commonwealth possible for forest-based tourism and Government, through the Australian recreation to be developed and Tourist Commission, is conducting undertaken in an ecologically an international marketing sustainable manner that maintains the campaign to attract overseas resource base. The codes of practice visitors to Australia. The to be developed by the States and Commission will continue to market
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49 and promote the attractions of • Consistent with the objectives of Australia's natural environment, ecologically sustainable including World Heritage areas and management, the Governments will National Park forests. An element take steps to ensure that grazing in of this campaign will focus on the public native forests is controlled, theme of 'The Great Australian so that forest ecosystem and Outdoors', which is designed to regional conservation values and highlight Australia's unique catchment management objectives environment. are not adversely affected.
• The Commonwealth Government, Mining and mineral exploration through the Bureau of Tourism The Governments recognise that, in Research, will undertake tourism- making land use decisions for public oriented forest research, including native forests, it is necessary to take economic research into the existing into account access for mineral use and current and potential extraction and exploration activities. To economic value of forests for ensure that this occurs, the tourism and recreation. This will Governments agree that mineral involve liaison with forest resource agencies will be consulted in management agencies and tourism a timely fashion on strategic land use research authorities to encourage planning proposals that may have the coordination and collection of implications for mineral extraction and standardised data on the types and exploration in public forests. level of visitor use of protected and other areas. Mining activities will often have a significant localised impact on forested • Relevant government agencies will areas. Where mining does occur, it will monitor the use of forests for be managed to minimise impacts and tourism and recreation to assess to ensure that regeneration accords the impact on forest ecosystems. with soundly based principles. Where necessary, forest access will be managed to protect and conserve forest ecosystems. Other economic and social uses The Governments will seek to ensure that other economic and social uses of Grazing forests conform with ecologically Grazing in public native forests can sustainable practices. Prescriptions have a significant impact on and severe will be applied for non-commercial uses implications for forest ecosystems. In in order to minimise adverse impacts. particular, grazing in National Parks or reservation areas is usually As is the case with the use of forests inconsistent with protecting for wood production, the Governments conservation values. agree with the principle that the beneficiaries of forest use should pay • In relation to National Parks and for that use and the associated costs other public nature conservation that are imposed on public agencies. reserves, the State Governments will only issue new licences for • Forest management agencies will grazing if it is assessed that charge commercial forest users for conservation values will not be use of public forest resources. compromised. Further, to cover the costs of providing facilities and services, the
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50 agencies will institute, where prospects. In some regions, forest appropriate and administratively management and new forest-based and financially feasible, cost industries will provide enhanced recovery mechanisms for employment prospects for these non-commercial users. The costs communities and enable them to use of and returns from these services their knowledge and forest will be publicly reported. management skills.
The Governments acknowledge that in The Governments acknowledge the some cases areas of forest will need to economic and social value of be cleared to provide access to sustainable commercial and non- minerals and for power transmission commercial uses of forests. Through and transport routes. In such the policies and initiatives described in circumstances consultation between this Statement they seek to stimulate forest management agencies and and maximise sustainable employment relevant parties is necessary to ensure opportunities. appropriate management. A highly skilled and productive labour • The Governments will require all force will provide the springboard for government authorities and economic growth and expansion in instrumentalities that use forested forest-based industries. Dynamic and land in pursuit of their objectives to internationally competitive industries consult fully with forest will in turn result in employment growth. management agencies to ensure The microeconomic reforms being that their actions are in accord with pursued by the Governments will the integrated management plans support the policies detailed in this for the forest region. Statement.
Moreover, industry will be better able to 4.8 Employment, workforce accommodate structural and education and training technological change and increase overall levels of efficiency if it has a Sustainable commercial and non- competent, skilled, safety-conscious commercial uses of forests provide and flexible workforce. significant employment benefits to Australian society. There are Maximising sustainable employment considerable employment and skills development in forest-based opportunities in the areas of industries will require a strong focus on conservation management, forest education and training in all areas of management for wood production and the forest-based workforce. The other resources, forest product Governments, industry bodies and manufacturing, tourism and research. education and training institutions A range of minor forest-based should be involved in meeting this industries can also create employment need. Specifically, benefits. These employment opportunities are of particular • The Governments will encourage importance to regional and local key tertiary institutions to provide communities. high-quality education and training for Australia's professional forest Aboriginal communities in regional and forest industry managers, at areas often experience very high levels both undergraduate and of unemployment and limited job postgraduate levels.
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51 alternative employment is not always • The Governments and industry will available. cooperate to sponsor appropriate forest training centres at State or Occupational health and safety issues regional level. These centres will are of continuing concern. The forest provide education and skills training and forest products industries are relating to environmentally sound inherently dangerous, and there is a forest operations. constant need to seek ways of improving the safety of employees and • Education programs will deal with the general public. the issues of ecologically sustainable management and • In this respect, the Governments clearly relate these to management will emphasise occupational health requirements for conservation and and safety reforms designed to to the codes of forest practice facilitate improvements in governing activities in both public workplace health and safety. and private forests.
Governments have an important role in 4.9 Public awareness, education facilitating increases in labour and involvement productivity through skills upgrading and better use of new technology in the Forest management agencies manage forest products industry. public forests on behalf of the community. It is important that these • Accordingly, the Governments will agencies be accountable to the continue a range of existing community for their stewardship of the workplace reform program community's assets. initiatives, seeking to promote the development of more appropriate It is equally important to foster work and management practices, community understanding of and better forms of work organisation, support for ecologically sustainable and improved industrial relations, forest management, by providing encompassing award restructuring greater opportunities for the community and enterprise agreements. to obtain information about forest Improvements in labour productivity ecology, the management of Australia's will also be facilitated by the forests, and forests' nature development and implementation of conservation, heritage, and economic enterprise consultative committees, and wood production values. This will assistance with the development of enable the community to make a more new skills-based classification considered contribution within the land structures, resolution of use decision-making process and to demarcation issues, and provision forest management issues. of funds for various training initiatives. Accordingly, the Governments' strategy will involve the following: Structural adjustment can have employment consequences. As • provision to the community of mentioned in Section 4.2, the information about forests and forest Governments acknowledge their role in management; seeking to minimise any adverse social and economic effects of the structural • continued support for the adjustment process, particularly where establishment of forest information
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52 facilities, such as demonstration development; economic and marketing forests and visitor information aspects; and other non-wood aspects centres; of forests, such as wildfire management, recreation, and cultural • further development of school and heritage values. education programs about forests and sustainable forest An adequate research capacity will be management and uses, in maintained by forest management consultation with relevant agencies; it will be augmented by the educational bodies and drawing on Commonwealth Government through successful Australian models; the CSIRO, the cooperative research centres, universities and other • continued development by the research bodies. Other users of the States of comprehensive and forest estate will also need to maintain publicly available forest or support an effective research management plans based on capacity. The results of forest-related extensive public consultation and research should be disseminated in a advanced planning techniques; timely and effective manner.
• forest management agencies' More specifically, the following provision to the AFC and ANZECC initiatives will be taken: of appropriate information from which to produce and publish a • The Commonwealth Government, 'state of the forests' review every five in partnership with the forest years. The review will summarise industries, will establish the Forest available information, including the and Wood Products Research and basis of sustainable forest yield Development Corporation, the and other values, moves to achieve charter of which will be to identify a comprehensive nature priorities and to commission, conservation reserve network, and administer and subsequently the results of long-term monitoring evaluate research into a broad of the impacts of forest use. range of issues relating to wood production, extraction, processing, economics and marketing. Among 4.10 Research and development these issues will be the impacts of disturbance resulting from wood An enhanced, better coordinated and production, silviculture, and better focussed research and management of native forests and development effort will be essential if plantations; the commercial and the Governments' vision and goals for economic aspects of wood Australian forests and forest industries production; and research of are to be achieved. Further research is relevance to the wood products needed in a number of broad subject industries. The new Corporation areas: forest ecosystems and will be encouraged to ensure biological diversity; resource evaluation effective communication of and inventory; the ecological and research results to scientists, environmental impact of forest industry, land managers and the disturbance and management wider community through a regimes; forest protection, covering scientific journal and more widely disease, pests and fire; silvicultural distributed magazines. It will also techniques; forest productivity; wood administer the Forestry processing and utilisation; product
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53 Postgraduate Research Award already established within the Program. Southern Tree Breeding Association. • The Commonwealth Government will support plantations research • The Commonwealth Government through the new Corporation. will continue to support specific Research into commercial wood industry-development research production on farms will be dealt programs. with by the new Corporation in cooperation with the joint • The Land and Water Resources agroforestry research and Research and Development development program developed by Corporation will work with other the Rural Industries Research and ministerial councils to investigate a Development Corporation and the range of matters of relevance to Land and Water Resources integrated catchment management Research and Development of land, water and vegetation Corporation. Where appropriate, resources; for example, the the State Governments and industry development of effluent disposal will support this. systems for the irrigation of plantations. Appropriate links will • The Governments will continue to be maintained with the new Forest support the National Pulpmills and Wood Products Research and Research Program to investigate Development Corporation. alternative pulping technologies and use of alternative fibres, including recycling, and they will 4.11 International responsibilities support the introduction of such technologies where appropriate. The Governments believe that, as well as pursuing sustainable forest • The Governments support the need management practices within Australia, for additional 'public good' research the nation should, wherever possible, into conservation and assist in the sustainable management environmental aspects of forests of forest resources in other countries. and for assessment of forests for conservation and other commercial As a leading nation in developing and non-commercial values. Public sustainable forest management and good research will supplement practices and community involvement existing research undertaken by in forestry, Australia will continue to be Commonwealth research agencies a model for the conservation and such as the CSIRO, the Cooperative sustainable use of forests. This will Research Centres for Temperate require the provision of assistance to Hardwood Forestry and for countries that wish to improve their Hardwood Fibre and Paper forest management. It will also require Science, universities, and State the observation of international research bodies. Industry funding forest-related agreements to which for public good research will be Australia is a signatory. encouraged. Consistent with the Intergovernmental • The Governments and industry will Agreement on the Environment and the cooperate under suitable terms and Principles and Procedures for conditions to expand the National Commonwealth-State Consultation on Hardwood Tree-Breeding Program, Treaties, the Commonwealth will
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54 consult with the States on any future emissions. By achieving the national relevant international agreements. goals relating to ecologically sustainable management of Australia's • To this end, Australia participated in forests, by maintaining and increasing the United Nations Conference on native forest cover, and by increasing Environment and Development, vegetative cover through plantation signed the United Nations development, Australia can make a Framework Convention on Climate contribution to reducing the impact of Change and the Convention on greenhouse gas emissions and Biological Diversity, and endorsed conserving biological diversity. the Global Statement of Principles on Forests. Australia will also participate in any negotiations for the possible development of an international convention on forests, consistent with the Conventions on Climate Change and Biological Diversity, and will work towards implementing its international obligations under Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development.
• Australia will continue to support the International Tropical Timber Organisation in its efforts to realise the target of achieving trade in tropical timber only from sustainably managed sources by the year 2000.
• The Governments will continue to support a range of bilateral and multilateral activities, consistent with Australia's international responsibilities, to help developing countries to conserve and manage their forests in an ecologically sustainable manner and to encourage the development of relevant conservation and management skills. In this regard, the Governments will foster awareness of the benefits of such cooperation by supporting research, by training, and by providing professional and technical expertise.
The policy measures outlined in this Statement should make a contribution to efforts at the international level to reduce the impact of greenhouse gas
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55 5 IMPLEMENTATION
The preceding sections identify a wide range of agreed policy responses and commitments by the Governments to achieve the objectives of the Statement. All the Governments take seriously their responsibilities for implementing these policies, and they are committed to ensuring that policy implementation occurs as a matter of priority.
The effective implementation of the policies identified in this Statement requires a funding commitment by the Governments. Both the Commonwealth and the States are already providing significant funding in a number of areas covered by the Statement. Consideration will be given in future budgets to the financial implications arising from the policies identified in the Statement.
A number of the policies can be established forthwith; others are dependent on further work. As a reflection of their commitment to the objectives and policies of the Statement, the Governments have agreed that the secretariats of the Standing Committees of the AFC and ANZECC will be jointly responsible for the preparation of reports (for the information of the ministerial councils) on the implementation of the programs and initiatives described in this Statement. The Governments agree that the reporting mechanism will be consistent with that adopted by them for the Ecologically Sustainable Development National Strategy. To facilitate the compilation of these reports, the Standing Committees of the AFC and ANZECC will establish a joint sub-committee.
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56 ATTACHMENT A
'Forest Practices Related to Wood Production in Native Forests: national principles' — an extract
This document was prepared by the subject to wood production and Standing Committee of the Australian private forests to the extent this Forestry Council in May 1991. would be consistent with statutory powers and the State's The Australian Forestry Council, forest management strategy. representing the States' and the Commonwealth's forestry authorities, 1.3 Each State will provide an has decided to develop a set of appropriate system for the national principles to be applied in the specification, control, and management of native forest resources accountability for forest practices used for wood production. relating to wood production activities. These principles determine a consistent and scientific basis for 1.4 The system may involve either sound management to which all States separate legislation, legally are committed. Specific prescriptions enforceable contract, licence by the different States conforming to the under other legislation, some national principles take into account the combination, or other means. wide range of forest types, conditions, and situations applying due to natural 1.5 The system will provide for and cultural variations. code(s) of forest practice suitable for the State. The principles have been structured into several sections, relating to 1.6 The purpose of the code(s) of different activities associated with wood forest practice related to wood production in the native forests. Except production is to ensure that where stated the principles apply to timber growing and timber public and private forests. production activities for commercial purposes, are conducted in a manner that 1. AUTHORISATION safeguards the identified environmental values and is 1.1 Legislation in each State will consistent with defined provide for the management of minimum standards associated State Forests under sustainable with those forests. management principles and the relationship with associated 1.7 Review of the code(s) of forest industry to ensure conservation practice related to wood and protection of the production will be conducted at environment. intervals permitting responses to developments in knowledge 1.2 Principles should also apply to and technology. Community other Crown native forests
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57 views should be actively sought as part of the review process. 3.5 soil stability be protected by measures which regulate site disturbance; 2. SAFETY 3.6 soil, water catchment, cultural 2.1 All wood production activities will and landscape values be be conducted to comply with protected by the careful location, relevant safety legislation and construction, and maintenance policy. In particular, all operators of timber extraction roads and should be trained to designated tracks, and regulation of their standards in the safe and use; efficient use of equipment and machinery and be responsible 3.7 fauna, floristic, and landscape for safe working practices. values be protected by the careful planning of operations and the reservation of 3. PRINCIPLES OF appropriate patches and ENVIRONMENTAL CARE corridors of vegetation;
The principles of environmental care 3.8 forests be protected from the with regard to planning and conducting adverse effects of fire and from of timber growing and harvesting the introduction of, and spread operations applying particularly to of, plant, insect, and animal public land are: pests, and plant diseases.
3.1 the floristic and faunal diversity of native forests, including their 4. IMPLEMENTATION successional stages, be maintained on public land; 4.1 Planning
3.2 where assessed as important, 4.1.1 For public land strategic forest values such as intensive planning should be achieved recreation, high scenic quality, through regional management significant geomorphic, plans. biological, or cultural heritage sites, be protected from the 4.1.2 For public lands the distribution adverse effects of forest of wood production throughout operations on public land; the management plan area should be achieved by Principles applying to both private and operations plans, subject to the public land are: management plan.
3.3 water quality (physical, chemical, 4.1.3 Individual forest operations, will or biological), be protected by be conducted in accordance with measures controlling approved action plans, which disturbance resulting from forest incorporate a map and a activities; schedule specifying relevant conditions. 3.4 water yield be managed as required by careful planning of 4.1.4 The action plan will include operations; details of any necessary
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58 planned access to the coupe prior to commencement of additional to the road system harvesting. approved under the management plan or operations 4.3.2 The action plan for harvesting plan. will consider factors such as coupe size, slope and location, design and location of landings 4.2 Access and snig tracks, harvesting equipment and areas excluded 4.2.1 Planning of road systems in from logging, protection, and public forests will be based on reforestation. the economic principle of minimising the combined cost of 4.3.3 Harvesting operations should be snigging and roading and on the suspended where the Principles Principles of Environmental of Environmental Care will be Care. compromised, or where the safety of workers is at 4.2.2 Road design will be to unacceptable risk. standards capable of carrying the anticipated traffic with 4.3.4 Soil and water values should be reasonable safety. protected by progressive restoration of drainage and snig 4.2.3 Construction of roads and tracks and temporary roads. associated works will be undertaken in a manner which will ensure compliance with the 4.4 Forest Establishment Principles of Environmental Care. It should be noted that this document does not cover afforestation on cleared 4.2.4 Timber salvage should be a land, for example amenity or standard practice during road commercial planting on agricultural clearing operations. land.
4.2.5 Maintenance of roads through 4.4.1 Planning for reforestation will be minimising erosion will be based upon the use of undertaken to protect the road silvicultural methods that are surface and water quality. economically and environmentally appropriate for 4.2.6 Roads will be closed in wet the particular type of forest, and conditions when unacceptable applied with local variations to damage would occur, or when suit specific stand and site such other conditions may conditions. warrant. 4.4.2 Reforestation of extensively managed native forest should 4.3 Timber Harvesting be with species and provenances native to the area 4.3.1 Timber harvesting will be or an equivalent locality to help planned and carried out to meet conserve species patterns and the Principles of Environmental gene pools present prior to Care. The action plan will be harvesting. approved by relevant authorities
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59 4.4.3 Reforestation of native forest sought before commencing designated for intensive wood work. production may involve the introduction of selected species, provenances or populations to 4.5.4 Use of chemicals, such as increase productivity or value. herbicides, in forest operations will be strictly in accordance with 4.4.4 Where permitted, the State policies and procedures. reforestation of native forest sites to plantation of exotic or native species will comply with 5. MONITORING AND REVIEW any requirements of legislation or policy controlling such 5.1 Forest operations should be practices. supervised and monitored by qualified and authorised officers 4.4.5 Intensive management and be subject to possible audit. practices, such as site preparation, fertilising, weed control, pest and disease control, and other operations will be carried out in accordance with standard instructions, and consistent with the Principles of Environmental Care.
4.4.6 Stocking assessments will be undertaken, where appropriate, to monitor the success of forest establishment practices and to provide a basis for corrective measures.
4.5 Forest Protection
4.5.1 Fire protection planning should be undertaken in coordination with relevant land management agencies.
4.5.2 Where pests or diseases cause significant damage, decline, or deaths of trees, specialist advice should be sought.
4.5.3 Where forest operations are planned for healthy forest vegetation, known to be susceptible to important and recognised pests or diseases, specialist advice should be
iv
60 GLOSSARY
Biological diversity a concept encompassing the diversity of indigenous species and communities occurring in a given region. Also called 'biodiversity', it includes 'genetic diversity', which reflects the diversity within each species; 'species diversity', which is the variety of species; and 'ecosystem diversity', which is the diversity of different communities formed by living organisms and the relations between them.
Biological diversity is the variety of all life forms — the plants, animals and micro-organisms — the genes they constitute, and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Ecologically sustainable There is no common definition in the literature for the term development 'ecologically sustainable development'. In considering this issue, the Ecologically Sustainable Development Working Group on Forest Use specified three requirements for sustainable forest use: maintaining the ecological processes within forests (the formation of soil, energy flows, and the carbon, nutrient and water cycles); maintaining the biological diversity of forests; and optimising the benefits to the community from all uses of forests within ecological constraints. The National Forest Policy Statement adopts these principles as the basis for ecologically sustainable development.
Endangered species and species in danger of extinction and whose survival is communities unlikely if the causal factors continue operating. Included are species whose numbers have been reduced to a critical level or whose habitats have been so drastically reduced that the species are deemed to be in danger of extinction. Also included are species that are possibly already extinct but have definitely been seen in the wild in the past fifty years and have not been subject to recent thorough searching.
Enhanced greenhouse see Greenhouse gases effect
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61 Forest an area, incorporating all living and non-living components, that is dominated by trees having usually a single stem and a mature or potentially mature stand height exceeding 5 metres, and with existing or potential projective cover of overstorey strata about equal to or greater than 30 per cent. This definition includes Australia's diverse native forests and plantations, regardless of age. It is also sufficiently broad to encompass areas of trees that are sometimes described as woodlands. The focus of this Statement excludes woodlands.
Forest estate all forests growing on public or private lands.
Forest management public agencies that manage forests on Crown land for agencies many uses, including wood production, conservation, fauna and flora protection, recreation and water supply. This includes agencies with responsibility for the management of unallocated and leased Crown lands that are forested.
Forest service the 'forest management agency' within a State that has the specific responsibility for managing public forests for wood production.
Full faith and credit as defined in the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment:
a reference to 'give full faith and credit' means that Governments, acting in accordance with the laws in force in their jurisdictions, will accept and rely on the outcomes of mutually approved or accredited systems, practices, procedures or processes, as the case may be, as a basis for their decision making.
Greenhouse gases gases that affect the temperature of the Earth's surface and have a large bearing on the Earth's climate. They include water vapour, ozone, chlorofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. The 'enhanced greenhouse effect' refers to changes in the Earth's climate as a result of increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere due to human activity.
Integrated harvesting the harvesting of more than one product (for example, sawlogs and pulplogs) in a single operation.
Management plans the range of plans dealing with strategic and operational issues of forest management prepared for specified regional or local areas and integrating environmental and commercial objectives.
ii
62 Native forest any local indigenous community the dominant species of which are trees — see Forest — and containing throughout its growth the complement of native species and habitats normally associated with that forest type or having the potential to develop these characteristics. It includes forests with these characteristics that have been regenerated with human assistance following disturbance. It excludes plantations of native species and previously logged native forest that has been regenerated with non- endemic native species.
Nature conservation areas of publicly owned land, including forested land, reserves managed primarily for nature conservation and providing multiple benefits and uses, such as recreation and water catchment but excluding wood production.
This Statement asserts that the nature conservation reserve system will be developed on the basis of three principles: comprehensiveness, adequacy and representativeness. These terms are defined thus:
comprehensiveness — includes the full range of forest communities recognised by an agreed national scientific classification at appropriate hierarchical levels;
adequacy — the maintenance of the ecological viability and integrity of populations, species and communities;
representativeness — those sample areas of the forest that are selected for inclusion in reserves should reasonably reflect the biotic diversity of the communities.
Old-growth forest forest that is ecologically mature and has been subjected to negligible unnatural disturbance such as logging, roading and clearing. The definition focuses on forest in which the upper stratum or overstorey is in the late mature to overmature growth phases.
Patient equity capital capital for investment where the expectation is that there will be a capital return in the long term rather than any short-term dividend or income.
Plantations intensively managed stands of trees of either native or exotic species, created by the regular placement of seedlings or seed.
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63 Precautionary principle as defined in the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment:
where there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation.
In the application of the precautionary principle, public and private decisions should be guided by:
(i) careful evaluation to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment
(ii) an assessment of the risk-weighted consequences of various options.
Public forest any forest on Crown land for which management responsibility has been delegated to government agencies, local governments or other instrumentalities.
Regional conservation this term also encompasses conservation and catchment and catchment management objectives at the national and State levels management objectives Regrowth forest native forest containing a substantial proportion of trees that are in the younger growth phase and are actively growing in height and diameter. Regrowth forests may contain scattered individuals or small occurrences of ecologically mature, or old-growth, trees.
Vulnerable species and species believed likely to move into the 'endangered' communities category in the near future if the causal factors continue operating. Included are species of which all or most of the populations are decreasing because of over-exploitation, extensive destruction of habitat or other environmental disturbance; species with populations that have been seriously depleted and the ultimate security of which has not been assured; species with populations that are still abundant but are under threat from severe adverse factors throughout their range; and species with low or localised populations or dependent upon limited habitat and that would be vulnerable to new threatening processes.
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64 Wilderness land that, together with its plant and animal communities, is in a state that has not been substantially modified by, and is remote from, the influences of European settlement or is capable of being restored to such a state; is of sufficient size to make its maintenance in such a state feasible; and is capable of providing opportunities for solitude and self-reliant recreation.
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65 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR
FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant
VICFORESTS Respondent
ANNEXURE 2 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS
Janis Report
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Reserve System for Forests in Australia 1997
Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053
66 Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a
Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Reserve System for Forests in Australia
A Report by the Joint ANZECC / MCFFA National Forest Policy Statement Implementation Sub-committee
67 Enquiries regarding ANZECC should be directed to
The Secretary Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council C/- Environment Australia GPO Box 787 Canberra ACT 2601
Enquiries regarding MCFFA should be directed to
The Secretary Ministerial Council on Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture C/- Department of Primary Industries and Energy GPO Box 858 Canberra ACT 2601
© Commonwealth of Australia 1997
ISBN: 0 642 26670 0
Information presented in this document may be copied provided that full acknowledgment is made. 68 FOREWORD
For over two decades in Australia the competing demands of conservation and industry on our forests have been an area of debate and controversy. The National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS), agreed by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments, provides the framework for a long term solution to this issue.
The NFPS sets out the process for undertaking joint Commonwealth and State/Territory Comprehensive Regional Assessments (CRAs) of natural and cultural, and economic and social values of Australia's forests as the basis for negotiation of Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs). RFAs are to be developed between the States/Territories and the Commonwealth and they will encompass the establishment and management of a forest reserve system which is comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR), the ecologically sustainable management of forests outside the reserve system, and the development of an efficient, internationally competitive timber industry.
The detailed information required to negotiate each RFA will be drawn together through a CRA of the full range of forest values of a region. The CRAs are intended to provide a synthesis of the relevant information upon which the development of different land allocation, forest management and industry and community development scenarios, or options, can be developed.
Following the options development phase, a draft RFA report will be released for public comment. This consultation phase will be critical as it will allow detailed discussion with stakeholders on appropriate options. The Commonwealth and relevant State/Territory Government will then negotiate final RFAs.
In accordance with the NFPS, the Governments have agreed to the development of National Forest Reserve Criteria. These Criteria are to form an essential part of the RFA process as they will be used to guide the establishment of the CAR reserve system within the RFA process.
This paper, which defines National Forest Reserve Criteria, is therefore an important contribution to implementation of the NFPS. The Criteria are applicable to all forests, and associated woodlands, within each region for which an RFA is to be developed.
These criteria were endorsed by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) at its meeting on 29 November1996, and by the Ministerial Council on Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture (MCFFA) out-of-session during late 1996/early 1997.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia 69 CONTENTS
Page
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. THE FOREST CONSERVATION FRAMEWORK 2
2.1 The CAR Reserve System and Conservation Management 2 2.2 A Regional Approach to Conservation 2
3. CAR PRINCIPLES 4
3.1 Comprehensiveness 4 3.2 Adequacy 4 3.3 Representativeness 5
4. COMPONENTS OF THE CAR SYSTEM 6
4.1 Public Land 6 4.1.1 Dedicated Reserves 6 4.1.2 Informal Reserves 6 4.1.3 Values Protected by Prescription 6 4.2 Private land 7
5. APPLYING THE CAR RESERVE CRITERIA 8
5.1 Underlying Principle 8 5.2 Flexibility 8 5.3 Urgency and Practicability 8 5.4 Economic and Social Considerations 9
6. CRITERIA FOR THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM FOR FORESTS 10
6.1 Biodiversity Criteria 10 6.1.1 Discussion 10 6.1.2 Criteria 11 6.2 Old-Growth Forest Criteria 12 6.2.1 Discussion 12 6.2.2 Criteria 14 6.3 Wilderness Criteria 14 6.3.1 Criteria 15
7. RESERVE DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 16
8. REFERENCES 17
9. APPENDIX 19
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia 70 10. GLOSSARY 20
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia 71 1. INTRODUCTION
The National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) (Commonwealth of Australia 1992) is an agreement by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments on broad goals for the management of Australia's forests. The goals embrace the concept of ecologically sustainable development, and the aim is to manage Australia's native forests to conserve biological diversity, heritage, and cultural values, and at the same time develop a dynamic, internationally-competitive forest products industry based on native forests managed on a sustainable basis.
Major elements of the NFPS include a commitment to the development of a comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) reserve system, and implementation of strategies to protect old- growth forests and wilderness as part of the reserve system.
This paper sets out nationally-agreed criteria for a conservation reserve system for forests. It has been drawn from a discussion paper by Woinarski & Norton (1993) "Towards a National System of Forest Reserves", the JANIS Technical Working Group draft Report (1995) "Broad Criteria for the Establishment of a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Forest Reserve System in Australia", the Commonwealth position paper (1995) "National Forest Conservation Reserves Commonwealth Proposed Criteria" and extensive public submissions on both of the later reports. In addition, there has been considerable discussion between the JANIS TWG and the Commonwealth Scientific Advisory Group as well as further deliberations by JANIS.
Although many forest ecosystems are already represented in conservation reserves across Australia, these criteria will provide an objective basis for evaluating and subsequently ensuring conservation of biological diversity and other values within the reserve system.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 1 72 2. THE FOREST CONSERVATION FRAMEWORK
2.1 THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM AND CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT The objectives of biodiversity conservation for forests are:
· to maintain ecological processes and the dynamics of forest ecosystems in their landscape context;
· to maintain viable examples of forest ecosystems throughout their natural ranges;
· to maintain viable populations of native forest species throughout their natural ranges; and
· to maintain the genetic diversity of native forest species.
These objectives will be most efficiently and effectively achieved through the development of integrated regional conservation strategies, which provide for the establishment and effective management of conservation reserves (the CAR reserve system) and complementary management of adjoining forest areas.
The NFPS adopts this approach and requires management for the conservation of all species of Australia's indigenous forest flora and fauna throughout their range.
The NFPS also specifically defines the need for the CAR reserve system to protect old-growth forest and forested wilderness to reflect "the significance of these areas to the Australian community because of their very high aesthetic, cultural and nature conservation values and their freedom from disturbance" (NFPS, p11). It also recognises the need for the CAR reserve system to safeguard endangered and vulnerable species and ecosystems.
2.2 A REGIONAL APPROACH TO CONSERVATION There has been considerable development of bioregional frameworks by each of the States and Territories as a basis for nature conservation planning. This work has led to the development of an agreed interim national bioregional framework, which reflects the environmental determinants for broad patterns in landscape, ecosystem and species diversity. This framework (IBRA, 1995) is shown in Map 1.
Further refinement of the IBRA framework is likely to occur as improved information becomes available. This refinement will assist in removing inconsistencies in the current regionalisation, such as the wide variation in the range of environments contained within regions in each of the States and the Territories.
To address the principle of representativeness (3.3 below) it may be necessary to sub-divide the larger regions. Examples of this include Queensland (bioclimatic and geomorphological provinces) and Victoria (geographical units derived from bioclimatic and geomorphological features, as described in the East Gippsland Forest Management Plan).
However, the IBRA regions will be used to help identify those regions to which the criteria should be applied when the CAR reserve system is being defined. The regions which underpin the definition of the CAR reserve system may be combinations of, or parts of, IBRA regions.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 2 73 An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia
SO"llt: l:IS,000,000 PrOClll(d. IJjth(Ai;smliJfl L'Ol\ll(COIISO'VJlion AJ(IICJ(lttS) I.Op Y(llUOfl • 27 MU.::h lt,S
11 mtc::~ 1'1":~~~ t,\" :~~~c: dtg. so""' CthtUI Mtrichn: 132 IIOJ, Uff ;,,.,s1uh11 Sphtioid
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Key to Map 1: An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia
Key IBRA Region JF Jarrah Forest LB Lofty Block AA Australian Alps LSD Little Sandy Desert AW Avon Wheatbelt MAC MacDonnell Ranges BBN Brigalow Belt North MAL Mallee BBS Brigalow Belt South MDD Murray-Darling Depression BEN Ben Lomond MGD Mitchell Grass Downs BHC Broken Hill Complex MII Mt Isa Inlier BRT Burt Plain ML Mulga Lands CA Central Arnhem MUR Murchison CAR Carnarvon NAN Nandewar CH Central Highlands NCP Narracoorte Coastal Plain CHC Channel Country NET New England Tableland CK Central Kimberley NK North Kimberley CMC Central Mackay Coast NNC NSW North Coast
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 3 74 COO Coolgardie NSS NSW South-western Slopes CP Cobar Peneplain NUL Nullarbor CR Central Ranges OVP Ord-Victoria Plains CYP Cape York Peninsula PCA Pine Creek-Arnhem DAB Daly Basin PIL Pilbara DE D'Entrecasteaux RIV Riverina DEU Desert Uplands SB Sydney Basin DL Dampierland SCP South-east Coastal Plain DRP Darling Riverine Plains SEC South East Corner EIU Einasliegh Uplands SEH South Eastern Highlands ESP Esperance Plains SEQ South Eastern Queensland EYB Eyre and York Blocks SSD Simpson-Strezlecki Dunefields FIN Finke STP Stony Plains FOR Flinders and Olary Ranges STU Sturt Plateau FRE Freycinet SWA Swan Coastal Plain FUR Furneaux TAN Tanami GAS Gasgoyne TEC Top End Coastal GAW Gawler TM Tasmanian Midlands GD Gibson Desert VB Victoria Bonaparte GFU Gulf Fall and Uplands VM Victorian Midlands GS Geraldton Sandplains VVP Victorian Volcanic Plain GSD Great Sandy Desert WAR Warren GUC Gulf Coastal WOO Woolnorth GUP Gulf Plains WSW West and South West GVD Great Victoria Desert WT Wet Tropics HAM Hampton YAL Yalgoo
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 4 75 3. CAR PRINCIPLES
The NFPS establishes that the forest reserve system should be based on the principles of comprehensiveness, adequacy and representativeness as described below.
3.1 COMPREHENSIVENESS Comprehensiveness - includes the full range of forest communities recognised by an agreed national scientific classification at appropriate hierarchical levels (NFPS 1992).
This principle requires that the reserve system samples the full range of forest communities across the landscape. However, the wide variation in forest ecosystems across the continent, and the large gaps between forested regions, makes effective consideration of comprehensiveness on a continental scale most difficult. Smaller and more manageable regional units (see Section 2.2) are therefore necessary as a basis for consideration of comprehensiveness.
Forest ecosystems, forest types and forest vegetation communities, together with their environmental descriptors, are commonly used as surrogates for biodiversity and as a basis for planning a comprehensive reserve system (see Glossary for specific definitions). However, these terms have different meanings across Australia. For the purposes of this document, they have been grouped under the term "forest ecosystems". These differences in definition mean that the surrogates used to assist with establishing the CAR reserve system will need to be determined on a regional basis.
3.2 ADEQUACY Adequacy - the maintenance of ecological viability and integrity of populations, species and communities (NFPS 1992).
Adequacy addresses the difficult question of extent: what is the level of reservation that will ensure viability and integrity of populations, species and communities. There are many approaches, ranging from best-guess estimates for poorly-defined ecosystems, to very accurate calculations for endangered or specific populations of animals and plants. Where data on the viability of populations are available, they should be incorporated in determining the adequacy of a reserve system.
No precise basis exists for determining criteria that provide for adequacy. However, the general rule is that the chances of long-term survival increase with increased proportions of populations or forest ecosystems reserved and appropriately managed. The degree of risk varies with different species (or suites of species) and with the degree of modification of the contiguous native forest beyond reserves. Most estimates show that the risk of loss is highest where only a small percentage of the distribution of the community or species is reserved and adjoining unreserved forest is cleared or significantly modified.
Replication across the range of geographic, environmental and biotic domains must also be considered when determining the adequacy of the reserve system. Replication is essentially "insurance" against the loss of natural values due to stochastic events (such as fire) which may dramatically reset successional processes and reduce or entirely remove key habitats. Implicit in the maintenance of biodiversity is the requirement to sustain ecological processes and functions and provide for the maintenance of natural patterns of speciation and extinction. This requires that the adequacy of a reserve system be considered in a landscape context (e.g., Saunders and Hobbs, 1991). The extent of inclusion of whole catchments, the degree of sympathetic management of
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 5 76 adjacent lands, and the options for provision of corridors to provide linkages are important in the development of integrated nature conservation strategies. Factors operating within the surrounding landscape that are particularly relevant to determining the adequacy of the reserve system are threatening processes (e.g., land clearing and disease), and the conservation strategies adopted in forests outside those areas reserved specifically for conservation.
3.3 REPRESENTATIVENESS Representativeness - those sample areas of the forest that are selected for inclusion in reserves should reasonably reflect the biotic diversity of the communities (NFPS 1992).
This principle is designed to ensure that the diversity within each forest ecosystem is sampled within the reserve system. An example of the application of techniques that consider representativeness is presented by McKenzie and Belbin (1991).
Many species, particularly animals, have distributions that are not easily predicted by surrogates such as forest ecosystems, and information on species distributions and genetic variation should be used in reserve design. There are good distributional data for a large number of forest species, genotypes and communities, and reserve selection methods such as described in Kirkpatrick (1984), Margules et al (1988) and Pressey and Nicholls (1989) can be used to ensure that all species whose distributions are relatively well known are represented in the reserve system. The focus of these methods should be on those species that that depend on reservation for protection.
Using species distributions alone will not guarantee the inclusion of all elements of biodiversity. However, using these distributions together with other measures of forest diversity can increase confidence that the reserve system does cover the full range of biodiversity. Other measures of forest diversity may include, for example, the occurrence of a vegetation type in relation to different soil types or the variation in structure and floristics present within a forest ecosystem. In practice a combination of approaches needs to be used to assess the representativeness of the reserve system.
It is not necessary to ensure that every element of biodiversity that occurs within a forest ecosystem is reserved within that ecosystem. Many species may be well represented in one forest ecosystem in a region and infrequent in another, and it is not necessary to distort reserve boundaries to ensure that they are reserved in each ecosystem occurrence. The important thing is that known species and genotypes are adequately reserved with the aim of maximising their viability within a region, not that they are reserved in every forest ecosystem in which they have been recorded.
Representativeness should be approached in a practical way. Available or readily acquirable data, depending on its type, quality, and resolution, should be used in the design of a reserve system.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 6 77 4. COMPONENTS OF THE CAR SYSTEM
The CAR reserve system comprises areas of both public and private land that are reserved specifically for conservation purposes, and where the tenure of the reserved areas is secured by legislation or other methods appropriate for the area concerned.
The following principles should apply when the CAR reserve system in a region is being identified.
All reasonable effort should be made to provide for biodiversity and old-growth forest conservation and wilderness in the Dedicated Reserve system on public land. However, where it is demonstrated that it is not possible or practicable to meet the criteria in the Dedicated Reserve system, other approaches will be required. For example, conservation zones in approved forest management plans and covenants on private land that bind successors in title could be used, in conjunction with Dedicated Reserves, to define the CAR reserve system for a particular region.
Throughout the document, reference to the CAR reserve system should be taken to include the elements described below.
4.1 PUBLIC LAND
4.1.1 Dedicated Reserves
A large number of types of reserve exist under Commonwealth, State and Territory jurisdictions. Those which form the Dedicated Reserve component of the CAR reserve system should be equivalent to Categories I, II, III or IV as defined by the IUCN Commission for National Parks and Protected Areas (1994) (see Appendix 1).
Security of tenure is an important consideration in the establishment of a Dedicated Reserve as are appropriate management regimes. The tenure of the Reserve is considered to be secure if Parliamentary action by either the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory Government is required to revoke the Reserve.
Some reserves established for nature conservation within State Forest tenures in some States will meet the standard required of a Dedicated Reserve.
4.1.2 Informal Reserves
In situations where it is not possible or practicable to include conservation values into Dedicated Reserves, it is appropriate for areas to be reserved under other secure tenure or management arrangements (e.g., within approved forest management plans). In practice such areas should be set aside specifically for conservation purposes and meet the following principles:
· they are established in approved management plans and managed accordingly;
· there is an opportunity for public comment on changes to reserve boundaries;
· they are able to be accurately identified on maps;
· they are of an area and design sufficient to maintain the values they seek to protect.
Some of these reserves could have flexible boundaries that might change over time to reflect forest dynamics and the effects of climate change, but any changes must satisfy the criteria which exist to protect conservation values.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 7 78 4.1.3 Values Protected by Prescription
Where the nature of a forest value that is needed to contribute to the CAR reserve system makes inclusion in either Dedicated or Informal Reserves impractical (for example, very rare values, values with fragmented distributions, or values naturally occurring in linear form such as riparian vegetation), then protection may be prescribed in Codes of Practice or Management Plans and where appropriate, identified on maps.
These prescriptions should meet the following principles:
· there is an opportunity for public comment on proposed changes;
· they have a sound scientific basis;
· they are adequate to maintain the values they seek to protect.
4.2 PRIVATE LAND The NFPS establishes that the CAR reserve system should in the first instance be selected from public land. However, in many regions it will need to include private land. The two key priorities for biodiversity protection in private forests are to ensure comprehensiveness so that replicated samples of all forest ecosystems are included in viable reserves across their geographic range and to meet the special needs for rare, vulnerable or endangered species or ecosystems on private land.
Many of the most threatened forest species and ecosystems throughout Australia occur on private lands, especially in coastal areas and across agricultural lands. There is an urgent need for specific measures to address their conservation in the development of the CAR reserve system as opportunities for their conservation are rapidly foreclosing. For example, in Queensland more than 100 forest and woodland ecosystems are considered to be endangered or significantly restricted in distribution, and most of these occur on private lands (Sattler and Williams, in press).
A number of strategies are appropriate for protecting biodiversity on private land, ranging from purchase of priority areas to the development of incentives for the establishment of mechanisms to ensure protection, such as covenants on leasehold and freehold lands. For example, a covenant should be binding on successors in title and that appropriate management intent should be demonstrated before the area concerned could be considered to be part of the CAR reserve system. The rights of landholders will be respected whatever mechanisms are adopted.
The level of protection possible on private land will be limited by the resources available. Conservation effort therefore needs to be highly focused on the priority forest species and ecosystems.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 8 79 5. APPLYING THE CAR RESERVE CRITERIA
5.1 UNDERLYING PRINCIPLE To ensure that nature conservation effort is focused on regional priorities and not based solely on meeting criterion percentage targets, it is desirable that an overall regional assessment of forests conservation needs be carried out. This information should be used to effectively plan integrated bioregional conservation strategies that encompass the establishment of a CAR reserve system.
In applying the criteria the scientific requirements for the protection of biodiversity (e.g., sites of high biodiversity, complementarity, rarity), should first be identified together with the other values to be addressed through the establishment of the CAR reserve system. Subsequently, the contribution that such a reserve network makes to the extent of protection afforded to each ecosystem should then be assessed to ensure that all forest ecosystems are conserved across Australia relative to their identified values and vulnerability.
5.2 FLEXIBILITY Flexibility in the application of reserve criteria is needed in consideration of differing regional circumstances to ensure that the CAR reserve system delivers optimal nature conservation outcomes as well as acceptable social and economic outcomes. Therefore the criteria described in Section 6 are to be considered as guidelines rather than mandatory targets.
Though all forest species and ecosystems should be represented in the reserve system, the effort to achieve this for the last few percent of communities and habitats may reach a point of diminishing return, and in these situations nature conservation objectives may be more efficiently and effectively achieved through other strategies.
Flexibility is also necessary to allow for changes to the CAR reserve system as a result of changes in knowledge and changes in biota (such as through climate change). Although changes may include boundary rationalisations, the CAR reserve system must be predicated on the principle that security of tenure and management intent is fundamental.
In the final selection of reserves, biodiversity, old-growth forest and wilderness values will be considered iteratively to most effectively capture the range of values within the proposed CAR reserve system. Providing that all criteria are considered when making the final reserve design, biodiversity should take precedence. This is of particular significance if the extent of socio- economic impacts are such that trade-offs are required to meet all criteria.
5.3 URGENCY AND PRACTICABILITY The urgency of the task dictates a practical approach to the development of the CAR reserve system. The criteria established in this paper are designed to ensure a consistent approach between regions, but they are broad enough to allow the best available data to be used in each region. In most instances, local expertise and knowledge will need to be used to extend the existing mapped data. In regions where the data are too limited for adequate assessment then additional data should be urgently obtained to enable planning to proceed with confidence.
Where gaps have already been identified, and current threatening processes may preclude future reservation options, immediate action should be taken to ensure that the CAR reserve system is established. This will require the allocation of appropriate resources to afford protection to the range of important species, habitat and forest ecosystems on all land tenures.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 9 80 5.4 ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL CONSIDERATIONS There will be many possible configurations of a CAR reserve system within any particular region and, therefore, considerable scope to satisfy the reserve criteria while obtaining optimal economic and social outcomes. It should be recognised that the extent of potential social and economic impacts may limit the ability to meet reserve criteria. Determination of the CAR reserve system will therefore require a comprehensive planning approach which integrates conservation requirements with social and economic considerations. The analytical processes which integrate the application of the reserve criteria with social and economic considerations should be transparent.
The principle of least cost should be used and, where different configurations of reserves can be identified as meeting the criteria, the option which imposes the least cost on the community should be adopted. The economic and social costs and benefits of alternative reserve options could include:
· the benefits accruing from non-timber uses of reserves;
· the direct costs associated with the choice, implementation and management of a reserve system;
· the opportunity costs of existing forest uses;
· the costs associated with broader employment impacts and industry adjustment; and
· the cost of sustainable forest management options.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 10 81 6. CRITERIA FOR THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM FOR FORESTS
This section proposes national criteria for the conservation of forest biodiversity, old-growth forests and wilderness. They have been developed bearing in mind the uncertainties regarding forest values and their conservation status, the differences between regions in the nature of their forests and the different levels of data which are available in the States and Territories.
6.1 BIODIVERSITY CRITERIA
6.1.1 Discussion
Reserves should be designed so that, to the extent practicable, all elements of biodiversity have the opportunity for expression but with particular emphasis on those components of biodiversity that are dependent on reservation for protection.
The Convention on Biological Diversity and the National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia's Biological Diversity consider biodiversity at three levels; genetic, species and ecosystem. While there is considerable information on the spatial patterning of biodiversity at the ecosystem and species levels, the information on genetic variation is limited. Although it is possible and desirable to use this limited genetic information in planning a reserve network, the biodiversity criteria outlined (See Section 6.1.2) relate primarily to biodiversity at the forest ecosystem and species levels.
The priority for reservation of a forest ecosystem is related to how much remains relative to its initial distribution and its vulnerability to threatening processes. In deriving these criteria recognition has been given to current world practice, a review of practical models (Woinarski and Norton 1993), the Caracas Action Plan (1992) developed by the Commission for National Parks and Protected Areas which identifies that "a minimum of 10% of each biome" should be preserved, and the Commonwealth's proposed criterion (Commonwealth 1995) of 15% of the pre-1750 distribution of each forest ecosystem.
In consideration of the above, 15% of pre-European distribution is seen as a desirable objective, however, some flexibility is both acceptable and desirable. For instance, where socio-economic impacts are not acceptable, or where biodiversity conservation objectives can be demonstrably achieved, such as for forests ecosystems which are extensive, a lower level of reservation, (e.g., 10%) may prove adequate.
The principle of comprehensiveness requires that the reserve system should sample each forest ecosystem within a region. In applying a baseline level of reservation for each forest ecosystem, any special ecological needs should also be taken into account together with the current status of each ecosystem within the region.
Priority attention should be given to rare, vulnerable and endangered ecosystems and species, as proposed by Kirkpatrick & Brown (1991) and reflected in the Commonwealth Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 and other State, Territory and local government legislation.
Reservation to conserve biodiversity needs to focus on the continued viability of species and ecosystems rather than the attainment of areal targets.
The criteria should generally be applied within a biogeographic regional framework based upon IBRA regions (See Section 2.2) but it is important to consider the distribution of a species or forest ecosystem in adjacent regions when applying the criteria.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 11 82 Mapping of forest ecosystems at 1:100 000, or 1:250 000 is considered to be an appropriate scale for planning a reserve system. If 1:250 000 scale maps are used, they should be based on compilation sheets at 1:100 000 where available. This is based on recognition of the conservation needs of all Australian forests and the level of information and mapped data sets available, or which could be readily produced, within the next five years. Forest ecosystems need to be recognisable in the field, be able to be mapped and able to have their pre-1750 distribution modelled or mapped. Examples of mapping approaches that may be useful in this context are Ecological Vegetation Classes in Victoria (1996), the work done by Young and McDonald (1989) in Queensland, Kirkpatrick and Brown (1991) in Tasmania, and Beard (1979a, 1979b) in Western Australia, who classified forests in terms of dominant overstorey species.
Incomplete mapping indicates the operational constraints of using the 1:100 000, or 1:250 000 map scale in some areas and identifies where further data acquisition is urgently required. Map scales of 1:1 000 000 or 1:5 000 000 that are more universally available for the continent are not adequate, and where mapping and paucity of data sets constrain identification of the system in the short term, appropriate interim arrangements will be needed to preserve future reservation options.
6.1.2 Criteria
(1) As a general criterion, 15% of the pre-1750 distribution of each forest ecosystem should be protected in the CAR reserve system with flexibility considerations applied according to regional circumstances, and recognising that as far as possible and practicable, the proportion of Dedicated Reserves should be maximised (see Section 4).
Regional flexibility is necessary for several reasons and will need to be considered on a case by case basis in the application of economic and social factors as outlined in section 5.3. Reductions in the 15% criterion may also be appropriate on a case by case basis where biodiversity conservation objectives can be demonstrated to be met with a lesser area, for example where a forest ecosystem is extensive and relatively uniform or where a forest ecosystem is subject to low intensity resource use and has demonstrated resilience and stability.
For forest ecosystems occurring primarily on private land, it is likely that Dedicated Reserves will form a lower proportion of the CAR reserve system, given it is often impractical to purchase land for Dedicated Reserves. Similarly, forest ecosystems occurring in isolated small areas within a disturbed landscape, or distributed in patches throughout other forest ecosystems, might be more efficiently protected by other types of reserve. (See Section 4).
It is inherent in this criterion that those forest ecosystems that are most severely depleted are protected to a greater extent. To some extent therefore, endangered and vulnerable forest ecosystems identified under criteria (2) and (3) are addressed by this criterion. In many cases, due to substantial past clearing for example in the Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) forests of Queensland and New South Wales, it will not be possible to achieve the criterion.
(2) Where forest ecosystems are recognised as vulnerable, then at least 60% of their remaining extent should be reserved. A vulnerable forest ecosystem is one which is:
i) approaching a reduction in areal extent of 70% within a bioregional context and which remains subject to threatening processes; or
ii) not depleted but subject to continuing and significant threatening processes which may reduce its extent.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 12 83 Vulnerable ecosystems include those where threatening processes have caused significant changes in species composition, loss or significant decline in species that play a major role within the ecosystem, or significant alteration to ecosystem processes.
An example of a vulnerable forest ecosystem which is not depleted but which is sensitive to threatening processes is King Billy Pine (Athrotaxis selaginoides) rainforest of Tasmania. This rainforest is highly susceptible to further destruction by fire and it has limited ability to invade burned areas (Brown, 1988). Although 60% of the pre-1750 distribution of this ecosystem remains, its vulnerability justifies higher levels of reservation.
(3) All remaining occurrences of rare and endangered forest ecosystems should be reserved or protected by other means as far as is practicable.
A rare ecosystem is one where its geographic distribution involves a total range of generally less than 10,000ha, a total area of generally less than 1000ha or patch sizes of generally less than 100ha, where such patches do not aggregate to significant areas. This criterion is to be applied within a bioregional context having cognisance of distribution in adjoining bioregions. It should be noted that rarity is a naturally occurring phenomenon that does not necessarily imply that the ecosystem is under immediate threat.
An endangered ecosystem is one where its distribution has contracted to less than 10% of its former range or the total area has contracted to less than 10% of its former area, or where 90% of its area is in small patches which are subject to threatening processes and unlikely to persist.
In terms of rare, vulnerable and endangered species/ecosystems it is recognised that a range of approaches ranging from reservation to prescription management and the development of species recovery plans will be needed. In practice both reservation and prescription management such as through Codes of Practice will be required to address the range of special species/ecosystem needs.
(4) Reserved areas should be replicated across the geographic range of the forest ecosystem to decrease the likelihood that chance events such as wildfire or disease will cause the forest ecosystem to decline.
(5) The reserve system should seek to maximise the area of high quality habitat for all known elements of biodiversity wherever practicable, but with particular reference to:
– the special needs of rare, vulnerable or endangered species;
– special groups of organisms, for example species with complex habitat requirements, or migratory or mobile species;
– areas of high species diversity, natural refugia for flora and fauna, and centres of endemism; and
– those species whose distributions and habitat requirements are not well correlated with any particular forest ecosystem.
(6) Reserves should be large enough to sustain the viability, quality and integrity of populations.
(7) To ensure representativeness, the reserve system should, as far as possible, sample the full range of biological variation within each forest ecosystem, by sampling the range of environmental variation typical of its geographic range and sampling its range of successional stages.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 13 84 Forest ecosystems are often distributed across a variety of physical environments, and their species composition can vary along environmental gradients and between the micro- environments within the ecosystem.
This approach will maximise the likelihood that the samples included in the reserve system will protect the full range of genetic variability and successional stages associated with each species, and particularly those species with restricted or disjunct distributions.
(8) In fragmented landscapes, remnants that contribute to sampling the full range of biodiversity are vital parts of a forest reserve system. The areas should be identified and protected as part of the development of integrated regional conservation strategies.
6.2 OLD-GROWTH FOREST CRITERIA
6.2.1 Discussion
Old-growth forest has a range of biological, aesthetic and cultural values.
The biodiversity attributes attributed to old-growth forest are based on the fact that some plants and animals are restricted to the old-growth stages or are dependent on old-growth forest for some of their habitat requirements. For example, one of the most significant characteristics of the older stages of Australian eucalypts is the propensity for creating hollows and it is well established that the number of tree hollows can be a limiting factor in the abundance of some fauna (Mackowski 1984).
The NFPS defines old-growth forest as:
Forest that is ecologically mature and has been subjected to negligible unnatural disturbance such as logging, roading and clearing. The definition focuses on forest in which the upper stratum or overstorey is in the late mature to over mature growth phases.
However, in order to define and map old-growth forests, operational interpretation based on the NFPS definition have been developed in some States, notably Victoria and New South Wales, and by the Commonwealth. Given the experience which has been gained in recent years in identifying old-growth forests, the agreed National operational interpretation is now:
Old-growth forest is ecologically mature forest where the effects of disturbances are now negligible.
In applying this interpretation to a forest ecosystem within a region, the following principles will apply:
· Ecological maturity is defined by the characteristics of the older growth stages
· If data are available on the structural, floristic, and functional qualities that would be expected to characterise an ecologically mature forest ecosystem, these data should be used in the assessment of the significance of disturbance effects.
· Negligible disturbance effects will be evident in most forests by a significant proportion of trees with age - related features and a species composition characteristic of the ecologically mature forest ecosystem.
This interpretation acknowledges that age-related features and the effect of disturbances will differ between forest ecosystems due to a range of factors including physical setting, fire proneness and
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 14 85 species composition. For example, the Woodgate et al (1992) method which is consistent with this interpretation could be adapted to similar forest ecosystems to those used in Victoria. Other forest ecosystems such as rainforest, dry forest and tropical forest may require different methodological approaches and would be developed bilaterally. The scale at which old-growth is mapped should be complementary to the 1:100 000, or 1:250 000 map scale at which the diversity of forest ecosystems are recognised. However, where forest ecosystems are dominated by communities of other seral stages, more detailed identification of old-growth forest may be appropriate to assist reserve selection.
Old-growth forest can have a high value for biodiversity and hence a substantial proportion of the remaining extent will be incorporated by applying the CAR criteria for biodiversity. For example, old-growth forests with high nutrient levels and moderate topography have been shown to be significant habitat for certain fauna, e.g., the Greater Glider Petauroides volans (Kerr) (Davey and Stockwell 1991). The actual amount of old-growth forest incorporated under these criteria depends on the remaining extent in each forest ecosystem and its contribution to biodiversity goals.
In regions which are characterised by a high degree of landscape disturbance and fragmentation, and where old-growth forests are therefore limited in occurrence, old-growth forest will assume increased significance and warrant greater reservation. Conversely, lower thresholds may apply in regions where disturbance and fragmentation are less evident.
It is recognised that old-growth, as part of an ecological succession, is not static and cannot be maintained indefinitely merely through the reservation of existing examples of that age-class. The inclusion of old-growth in the reserve system should be seen in the context of the selection and reservation of an appropriate mosaic of age-classes, which, with ecological processes intact will have the potential to generate the old-growth of the future.
Old-growth forest also has aesthetic and cultural values, and to meet these community expectations old growth forest should be protected in areas which optimise those values. In some cases additional reservation may be required above that needed for biodiversity purposes and decisions on such additional reservation would vary from region to region.
6.2.2 Criteria
These criteria apply to all forested regions except those in the Northern Territory where the vast areas involved mean a different set of criteria will need to be developed. It is necessary to approach old-growth criteria in a flexible manner according to regional circumstances, especially when forest ecosystems are still relatively widespread and retain large areas of old-growth. Wherever possible, areas of old-growth requiring protection should be included in the area identified to meet biodiversity criteria. (1) Where old-growth forest is rare or depleted (generally less than 10% of the extant distribution) within a forest ecosystem, all viable examples should be protected, wherever possible. In practice, this would mean that most of the rare or depleted old-growth forest would be protected. Protection should be afforded through the range of mechanisms described in section 4. (2) For other forest ecosystems, 60% of the old-growth forest identified at the time of assessment would be protected, consistent with a flexible approach where appropriate, increasing to the levels of protection necessary to achieve the following objectives:
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 15 86 · the representation of old-growth forest across the geographic range of the forest ecosystem;
· the protection of high quality habitat for species identified under the biodiversity criterion;
· appropriate reserve design;
· protection of the largest and least fragmented areas of old-growth;
· specific community needs for recreation and tourism.
6.3 WILDERNESS CRITERIA Wilderness - land that, together with its plant and animal communities, is in a state that has not been substantially modified by, and is remote from, the influences of European settlement or is capable of being restored to such a state; is of sufficient size to make its maintenance in such a state feasible; and is capable of providing opportunities for solitude and self-reliant recreation (NFPS 1992). Wilderness is a cultural concept that relates to large areas of essentially undisturbed land, and it encompasses a range of natural and cultural values. Wilderness areas are not determined on the principles of comprehensiveness, adequacy and representativeness for biodiversity conservation. Nevertheless, reservation for wilderness will have some direct benefits for biodiversity. As forest and non-forest vegetation types form a mosaic, non-forest vegetation types may be included within largely-forested wilderness areas. The consistent nationwide approach for identifying wilderness quality should be to apply the results of the National Wilderness Inventory (NWI) (Lesslie and Maslen 1995) through a co-operative process agreed to by the Commonwealth, States and Territories. The methodology adopted in the joint work in East Gippsland and the Central Highlands of Victoria (AHC/DCNR, 1994) serves as a model for this approach. The NWI measures wilderness quality on a class scale by adding scores derived from four standard indicators:
· remoteness from settlement;
· remoteness from access;
· apparent naturalness; and
· biophysical naturalness.
6.3.1 Criteria
These criteria apply to all forested regions except those in northern Australia where the vast areas involved mean a different set of criteria will need to be developed.
Ninety percent, or more if practicable, of the area of high quality wilderness that meet minimum area requirements should be protected in reserves.
(1) Determining potential wilderness areas:
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 16 87 · Potential areas will have a minimum NWI rating of 12. In addition, minimum thresholds for each of the wilderness quality indicators will be set within the regional context. These thresholds will take into account the importance of the indicators, and in particular the biophysical naturalness component as a primary indicator.
· The guideline for size which is considered generally appropriate for areas encompassing forested wilderness is 8000 ha. However, thresholds of less than 8000 ha may apply to areas contiguous with the sea or which adjoin wilderness areas in adjacent regions. Higher thresholds may apply within a region where wilderness is extensive.
· The presence in potential areas of "nodal" areas with higher wilderness quality may provide an indication of their significance and may guide the future management of identified wilderness areas.
· Other factors which are not considered in determining the NWI rating may need to be considered, in determining wilderness quality. These factors may include the include the impacts of exotic plants and feral animals on biophysical naturalness.
(2) Determining wilderness boundaries:
· Potential areas identified using the NWI database will be considered in a regional context to ensure their viability as wilderness, including considerations of shape.
· Both ecological and management features such as topography, water catchment boundaries, roads and other transport routes, may be useful when delineating boundaries.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 17 88 7. RESERVE DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT
The way in which a reserve is designed can influence not only the protection of conservation values, but the efficiency and effectiveness of subsequent management for conservation within the reserve. The criteria which should influence reserve design include:
· Boundaries should be set in a landscape context with strong ecological integrity, such as catchments;
· Large reserved areas are preferable to small reserved areas, though a range of reserve sizes may be appropriate to adequately sample conservation values;
· Boundary-area ratios should be minimised and linear reserves should be avoided where possible except for riverine systems and corridors identified as having significant value for nature conservation;
· Reserves should be developed across the major environmental gradients if feasible, but only if these gradients incorporate key conservation attributes which should be incorporated in the CAR system;
· Each reserve should contribute to satisfying as many reserve criteria as possible;
· Reserve design should aim to minimise the impact of threatening processes, particularly from adjoining areas;
· Reserves should be linked through a variety of mechanisms, wherever practicable, across the landscape.
Reservation alone will not ensure conservation of biodiversity or other natural and cultural values, and active management is required to ameliorate threatening processes and ensure that the reserve system retains the biodiversity and other values, including old-growth forest, for which it was established. Such management may involve the use of specific fire regimes, and even managed disturbance or selective reduction of certain populations. Extensively depleted forest ecosystems may need to be included in reserves and rehabilitated to ensure the primary criteria of comprehensiveness is achieved. Species and forest ecosystems recognised as endangered and vulnerable may require priority management action, such as development of recovery plans. Recognising the dynamic nature of forest ecosystems, and the inevitability of incremental loss of reserved old growth through wildfire and other natural processes, old growth values will need to be maintained by appropriate management strategies across the forest estate as a whole. Wilderness values also will need to be maintained by appropriate management and design of wilderness areas.
Reserves will require significant funding for establishment and ongoing management including the costs associated with data acquisition and monitoring of management performance.
Modifications to reserve design will be required through time as new values are identified and programs monitoring the effectiveness of established reserves identify deficiencies in reserve design and management. Monitoring programs should enable appropriate reporting of the effectiveness of the establishment and success of the CAR reserve system.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 18 89 8. REFERENCES
AHC & DCNR, 1994. National Estate Values in the Central Highlands of Victoria: Draft Project Report.
Beard, J. S., 1979a. Vegetation Survey of Western Australia: The Vegetation of the Perth Area. Vegmap Publications. Perth.
Beard, J. S., 1979b. Vegetation Survey of Western Australia: The Vegetation of the Pinjarra Area. Vegmap Publications. Perth.
Brown, M.J., 1988. Distribution and conservation of King Billy Pine. Forestry Commission Tasmania.
Caracas Action Plan, 1992. In: "Parks for Life: Report of the IVth World Congress on National Parks and Protected Areas", (Ed) J.A. McNeely, IUCN, Gland, Switzerland.
Commonwealth of Australia, 1995. National Forest Conservation Reserves Commonwealth Proposed Criteria. A Position Paper. AGPS, Canberra.
Commonwealth of Australia, 1992. National Forest Policy Statement A New Focus For Australia's Forests. Advance Press Pty Ltd, Perth.
Davey, S.M. and Stockwell, D.R.B., 1991. Incorporating Wildlife Habitat into an AI Environment: Concepts, Theory and Practicalities. AI Applications, Vol. 5, No. 2, 1991.
IUCN Commission on National Parks and Protected Areas, 1994. "Guidelines for Protected Area Management Categories". Gland, Switzerland. Available from Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.
Joint ANZECC/MCFFA National Forest Policy Statement Implementation Sub-committee, Technical Working Group Draft Report, 1995. Broad Criteria for the Establishment of a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Forest Reserve System.
Kirkpatrick, J.B. and Brown, M.J., 1991. Reservation Analysis of Tasmanian Forests. In: "Forest and Timber Inquiry Consultancy Series" No. FTC91/16. Resource Assessment Commission, Canberra.
Lesslie, R., Taylor, D. and Maslen, M., 1993. "National Wilderness Inventory: Handbook of Principles, Procedures and Usages". Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra.
Lesslie, R., and Maslen, M., 1995. "National Wilderness Inventory: Handbook of Principles, Procedures and Usages, 2nd Edition". Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 19 90 Mackowski, C. M. 1984. The ontogeny of hollows in eucalypts and its relevance to the management of forests for possums and gliders. pp. 553-67. In A. P. Smith and I. D. Hume (Eds.) Possums and Gliders. Australian Mammal Society. Sydney.
Margules, C.R., Nicholls, A.O., and Pressey, R.L., 1988. Selecting networks of reserves to maximise biological diversity, Biological Conservation, 43, 63-76.
McKenzie, N.L. and Belbin, L., 1991. Kimberley Rainforest Communities: Reserve Recommendations and Management Considerations. In: "Kimberley Rainforests", (Eds) N.L. McKenzie, R.B. Johnston and P.G. Kendrick, pp 453-68. Surrey Beatty & Sons Pty Ltd, Chipping Norton.
Pressey, R.L. and Nicholls, A.O. (1989a). Application of a numerical algorithm to the selection of reserves in semi-arid New South Wales. Biological Conservation, 50, 263-78.
Pressey, R.L. and Nicholls, A.O. (1989a). Efficiency in conservation evaluation: scoring vs. iterative approaches. Biological Conservation, 50, 199-218.
Sattler, P. S., and Williams, R.D. (Eds) (1996 in press). "Conservation Status of Queensland's Bioregional Ecosystems". Tech. Bull. Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage.
Saunders, D.A., Hobbs, R.J. and Margules, C.R., 1991. Biological Consequences of Ecosystem Fragmentation: A Review. Conservation Biology 5: 18-22.
Wilde, S.A. & Walker, I.W. (1982). Collie, Western Australia 1:250 000 Geological Series, Sheet SI 50-6, map and explanatory notes. Geological Survey of Western Australia. Department of Mines, Western Australia.
Woinarski, J.C.Z. and Norton, T.W., 1993. "Towards a National System of Forest Reserves: A Discussion Paper". (In press). Department of the Environment, Sport and Territories, Canberra.
Woodgate, P.W., Ritman, K.T., Peel, W.D., Coram, J.E., Brady, A. and Rule, A.J., 1992. "A Survey of the Forests of East Gippsland with Particular Reference to Old-Growth Characteristics: Overview Report (part A)". Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Victoria.
Young, P.A.R. & McDonald, T.J. (1989). Vegetation Mapping & Description "Warwick", South-eastern Queensland. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 20 91 9. APPENDIX
IUCN Protected Area Categories
The definition of "Protected Area" as defined by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature is:
An area of land and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, and managed through legal or other effective means.
Category I Strict Nature Reserve/Wilderness Area: protected areas managed mainly for science or wilderness protection Areas of land and/or sea possessing some outstanding or representative ecosystems, geological or physiological features and/or species, available primarily for scientific research and/or environmental monitoring.
Large areas of unmodified land, or slightly modified land, or land and water, retaining their natural character and influence, without permanent or significant habitation, which are protected and managed so as to preserve their natural condition.
Category II National Park: protected area managed mainly for ecosystem protection and recreation Natural area of land and/or sea, designated to (a) protect the ecological integrity of one or more ecosystems for this and future generations, (b) exclude exploitation or occupation inimical to the purposes of designation of the area and (c) provide a foundation for spiritual, scientific, educational, recreational and visitor opportunities, all of which must be environmentally and culturally compatible.
Category III Natural Monument: protected area managed mainly for conservation of specific natural features Areas containing one, or more, specific natural or natural/cultural features which is of outstanding or unique value because of its inherent rarity, representative of aesthetic qualities or cultural significance.
Category IV Habitat/Species Management Area: protected area managed mainly for conservation through management intervention Area of land and/or sea subject to active intervention for management purposes so as to ensure the maintenance of habitats and/or to meet the requirements of specific species.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 21 92 10. GLOSSARY
Approved Forest A plan, subject to public comment and periodically reviewed, defining forest policy Management Plans governing management activities within the management plan area, typically includes forest geography and history, land use allocation, objectives and prescriptions for management which is approved by the relevant management agency and/or minister. The approval process varies between jurisdictions.
Biodiversity Biological diversity, or biodiversity, is the variety of all life-forms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystems of which they are a part. Biodiversity is generally considered at three levels: genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. It is sometimes considered at the landscape diversity level.
Biogeographic Region A biogeographic region, or bioregion, is a region in which the boundaries are determined by vegetation cover, and the earth's physical features and climate.
Biome A biome is a geographic area containing similar lifeforms, determined by upper and lower limits of tolerance to temperature.
Comprehensive Regional A joint assessment of all forest values by the Commonwealth and State - Assessment (CRA) environmental, heritage, economic and social - leading to the establishment of a comprehensive, adequate and representative reserve system, agreements on forest management, and the signing of a regional forest agreement (RFA).
Covenant A voluntary legal undertaking by a landowner registered on the land title for the purposes of protection of some nominated value or condition of the land.
Dedicated Reserve Reserves where the management regime equates to specific protected area management categories defined by the IUCN Commission for National Parks and Protected areas (1994). [Categories I, II, III and IV]. Security of tenure, as demonstrated if Parliamentary action by Commonwealth, State or Territory Governments is required for revocation of the reserve, is fundamental to the establishment and management of formal reserves.
Ecologically Sustainable The Ecologically Sustainable Development Working Group on Forest Use Development (ESD) specified three requirements for sustainable forest use: maintaining the ecological processes in forests (the formation of soil, energy flows, and the carbon, nutrients and water cycles); maintaining the biological diversity of forests; and optimising the benefits to the community from all uses of forests within these ecological constraints.
Ecological Vegetation The components of a vegetation classification system. They are groupings of Classes vegetation communities based on floristic, structural and ecological features.
Ecosystem The aggregate of plants, animals and other organisms, and the non-living parts of the environment with which these organisms interact.
Endangered Forest An endangered forest ecosystem is defined as one which is likely to become extinct Ecosystem in nature unless the circumstances and factors threatening its extent, survival or evolutionary development cease to operate; as determined by the application of the criteria outlined in section 6.1.
Environmental Province A sub-area within a bioregion that reflects the environmental attributes that influence the occurrence of forest ecosystems.
Forest A vegetation type dominated by woody vegetation having a mature or potential mature stand height exceeding 5 metres, with an overstorey canopy cover greater than 20%.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 22 93 Forest ecosystem An indigenous ecosystem with an overstorey of trees that are greater than 20% canopy cover. These ecosystems should normally be discriminated at a resolution requiring a map-standard scale of 1:100 000. Preferably these units should be defined in terms of floristic composition in combination with substrate and position within the landscape (e.g., Young and McDonald 1989, Kirkpatrick and Brown 1991, Beard 1979a and 1979b, and Ecological Vegetation Classes as identified in Victoria as appropriate). In some parts of Australia the above level of resolution is not available. In this situation environmental resolution offered by contemporary surficial stratigraphic maps of 1:250 000 scale (e.g., Wilde and Walker 1982) are a viable surrogate provided vegetation maps are at sufficient resolution to overlay and allow for such factors as climatic influences on patterns in species composition to be identified within widespread stratigraphic units. (See p7 for use of generic term "forest ecosystem".)
Forested Region A forested region is one dominated by forest or woodland ecosystems as a mosaic that may also contain shrubland or other ecosystem types.
Genetic Diversity Variation in the genetic composition between individuals, populations or species.
IBRA IBRA, or Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia, is a bioregional framework delineating "natural" regions in each State and Territory based on biophysical, environmental and vegetation considerations (e.g., climate, lithology, landform, vegetation, flora and fauna and landuse) which allow cross border regionalisation.
Informal Reserve Reserves that contain and are managed for conservation values which unequivocally contribute to the CAR system. Such reserves have a sound basis in legislation (e.g., management plans required under legislation) with provision of opportunity for public comment on changes to reserve boundaries, and where decisions on their establishment and alteration are politically accountable. In addition, they must be able to be accurately identified (on maps), and of sufficient area and adequate design to contribute to the continued viability of the values they seek to protect.
JANIS Technical Working This group, comprising conservation scientists and planners from all States, the Group (TWG) Northern Territory, and the CSIRO, was established in 1993 under the auspices of the Joint ANZECC/MCFFA NFPS Implementation Sub-Committee (JANIS) to draft criteria on which to base a CAR reserve system for Australia's forests.
National Wilderness The NWI is an environmental database and set of modelling procedures which are Inventory (NWI) designed to assist in the planning and management of remote and natural lands in Australia.
Native Forest Any locally indigenous forest community containing the full complement of native species and habitats normally associated with that community, or having the potential to develop these characteristics.
Old Growth Forest Forest that is ecologically mature and has been subjected to negligible unnatural disturbance such as logging, roading and clearing. The definition focuses on forest in which the upper stratum or overstorey is in the late mature to over mature growth phases. This definition has been amended to produce an agreed National operational interpretation as follows: "Old-growth forest is ecologically mature forest where the effects of disturbances are now negligible".
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 23 94 Rare Forest Ecosystem A rare forest ecosystem is defined as one with a restricted geographic distribution, based on 1:100 000 mapping within a region, in which the total range is generally less than 10,000 ha; or where patch sizes are generally less than 100 ha, where such patches do not aggregate into significant areas.
Recovery Plan A comprehensive plan which details, schedules and costs all actions assessed as being necessary to support the recovery plan of a threatened species or ecological community.
Refugia A refugium is a biological community or geographic entity, which, because of its moderating structural characteristics and/or physical isolation, provides a sanctuary to which species or groups of species have retreated or been confined in response to threatening processes, including climatic change.
Regional Forest An agreement about the long-term management and use of forests in a particular Agreement (RFA) region between the Commonwealth and a State Government. Its purpose is to reduce uncertainty, duplication and fragmentation in government decision-making by producing a durable agreement on the management and use of forests.
Seral Stage The specific growth stage expressed by a forest in the successional process typical of that forest.
Threatening Process A process that threatens, or may threaten, the survival, abundance or evolutionary development of a native species or ecological community.
Vulnerable Forest A vulnerable forest ecosystem is defined as one which, within the next 25 years, is Ecosystem likely to become endangered unless the circumstances and factors threatening its extent, survival or evolutionary development cease to operate; as determined by the application of the criteria outlined in section 6.1.
Wilderness Land that, together with its plant and animal communities, is in a state that has not been substantially modified by, and is remote from, the influences of European settlement or is capable of being restored to such a state; is of sufficient size to make its maintenance in such a state feasible; and is capable of providing opportunities for solitude and self-reliant recreation.
Wilderness Quality A measure of differing levels of human impact on the natural environment, as part of a continuum of remote and natural conditions varying from pristine to urban. Wilderness quality is measured in terms of four variables (the Lesslie indicators of wilderness quality): • remoteness from settlement • remoteness from access • apparent naturalness • biophysical naturalness
Woodland A vegetation type dominated by woody vegetation having a mature or potential mature stand height exceeding 5 metres, with an overstorey canopy cover less than 20%.
Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a CAR Reserve System for Forests in Australia / 24 95 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR
FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant
VICFORESTS Respondent
ANNEXURE 3 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS
East Gippsland Regional Forest Agreement 1997
Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053
96 EAST GIPPSLAND REGIONAL FOREST AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMMONWEALTH AND VICTORIAN GOVERNMENTS
INTRODUCTION
Purpose of Agreement
1. This Regional Forest Agreement (RFA) establishes the framework for the management of the forests of East Gippsland. Parties are committed to ensuring the Agreement is durable and that the obligations and commitments that it contains are delivered to ensure effective conservation, forest management and forest industry outcomes.
2. This Agreement is a Regional Forest Agreement for the purposes of the relevant regulations under the Export Control Act 1982.
Definition of Region
3. The area covered by this Agreement is the East Gippsland Region as shown in Map 1 at Attachment 1.
Duration of Agreement
4. This Agreement takes effect upon signing by both parties and will remain in force for twenty years.
5. The process for extending the Agreement for a further period will be determined jointly by the parties as part of the third five yearly review.
Basis of Agreement ⎯ National Forest Policy Statement
6. Parties confirm their commitment to the goals, objectives and implementation of the National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) by:
• developing and implementing Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management (ESFM); • establishing a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative (CAR) reserve system; and • facilitating the development of an internationally competitive wood production and wood products industry.
FUNCTIONING OF THE AGREEMENT
Relationship to the Interim Forest Agreement
7. This Agreement replaces the Interim Forest Agreement, signed by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments on 27 January 1996, in relation to the East Gippsland Region.
97 Relationship between this Agreement and the Attachments
8. The Attachments will be treated as part of this Agreement.
Relationship to Statutory Obligations
9. This Agreement and its provisions are not intended to give rise to legally enforceable rights or obligations between the parties. This Agreement cannot impose on either party or a third party any obligation that is inconsistent with Australia’s international obligations, or a law of the Commonwealth or of Victoria.
10. Neither party will seek to use existing or future legislation to undermine or impede this Agreement.
11. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirms that its obligations under the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975 have been met.
12. Parties will manage the National Estate in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement as detailed in Attachment 2.
13. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirms that its obligations under the Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1974 have been met. The Commonwealth also confirms that, under the administrative procedures of the Act, any activities covered by the Agreement, including the 5 yearly review and minor amendments to the Agreement, will not trigger further environmental impact assessment.
14. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirms that its obligations under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 have been met.
15. The Commonwealth notes that its obligations to promote endangered species protection will involve ongoing cooperative work with Victorian agencies concerning East Gippsland.
16. Parties agree to actively investigate, and participate in, World Heritage assessment of the Australia-wide Eucalypt theme, including any potential contribution from East Gippsland.
17. Parties note that in order to progress work and then proceed to World Heritage nomination, the agreement of all relevant governments will be required.
18. Parties agree that any potential nomination for World Heritage involving areas in East Gippsland could be achieved from within the CAR Reserve System.
19. Parties note that current Commonwealth export licence arrangements provide that, after 31 December 1999, exports of hardwood woodchips will only be permitted from areas covered by an RFA.
98 20. The Commonwealth will, subject to the passage of amendments to the relevant regulations under the Export Controls Act 1982, ensure that no controls under that Act will apply to the export of hardwood woodchips or unprocessed wood sourced from the East Gippsland region while this Agreement is in place. The Commonwealth will seek passage of the relevant amendments by 30 June 1997. In the interim, licences will be issued to applicants seeking to export hardwood woodchips or unprocessed wood derived from areas within the East Gippsland region. The licences will be valid while this Agreement is in place and will not include an export volume constraint.
21. The Commonwealth notes Victoria’s intention to separate more clearly its commercial forestry activities within native State forests from the broader policy, strategic planning and regulatory functions associated with the management of those forests. Victoria also confirms its commitment to the ongoing implementation of its plans, codes and prescriptions relevant to the achievement of ESFM.
22. The Commonwealth notes Victoria’s intention to change the administration arrangements applying to the management of its parks, but that the primary emphasis of management will continue to be the conservation and protection of environmental and heritage values.
23. Victoria confirms that the sustainable yield for forests for East Gippsland will continue to be based on areas available for timber harvesting outside the CAR Reserve System.
Changes to the Agreement
24. This Agreement may only be amended with the consent, in writing, of both parties. Parties agree to work cooperatively to address any differences between them as to the interpretation or implementation of the Agreement. Such differences will be raised in writing by the concerned party. The Agreement will cease to operate only on notification in writing.
Monitoring, Reporting and Consultative Mechanisms
25. This Agreement establishes milestones (Attachment 3) and parties will report annually on their achievement using an appropriate public reporting mechanism.
26. Victoria will report on the results of monitoring of sustainability indicators.
27. Comprehensive Regional Assessments and the development of this Agreement have provided extensive opportunities for public participation and reporting. Parties recognise that the public reporting activities and on-going opportunities for public participation and consultation associated with existing Victorian and Commonwealth processes and instruments will continue. These processes are listed in Attachment 6.
99 28. In addition to these activities, Victoria agrees to publish future reports of internal audits of compliance with the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production. Supporting documents will also be publicly available.
29. Victoria will further develop the transparency and accountability of its forest management processes through the implementation of an on-going quality assurance program. The program will be implemented, within three years, utilising expertise external to the forest agency in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or its equivalent.
Five yearly review
30. Every five years, a review of the performance of the Agreement will be undertaken. The purpose of the five yearly review is to provide an assessment of progress of the Agreement against the established milestones, and will include:
• the extent to which milestones and obligations have been met including management of the National Estate; • the results of monitoring of sustainability indicators; and • invited public comment on the performance of the Agreement.
31. While the review process will not open up the Agreement to re-negotiation, both parties may agree to some minor modifications to incorporate the results of the review.
32. The outcomes of the review will be made public. The mechanism for the review will be determined by both parties before the end of the five year period and the review will be completed within three months.
ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT
33. The parties agree that ESFM is an objective which requires a long term commitment to continuous improvement and that the key elements for achieving it are:
• the establishment of a CAR Reserve System (Attachment 1); • the development of internationally competitive forest products industries; and • a fully integrated and strategic forest management system capable of responding to new information.
34. Victoria undertakes to:
• complete and publish regional prescriptions for timber production by the end of 1997; • complete and publish management plans for all National and State Parks by the end of 1998;
100 • continue to manage the other Dedicated Reserves within the CAR Reserve System in accordance with the relevant management recommendations of the Land Conservation Council as varied by this Agreement; • manage cultural values, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, in East Gippsland, based on the Guidelines for the Management of Cultural Heritage Values in Forests, Parks and Reserves in East Gippsland which will be jointly agreed; and • implement the Integrated Forest Planning System and the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory in East Gippsland in time for the next review of sustainable yield due in 2001.
Accreditation
35. Parties agree that Victoria’s forest management systems (including its legislation, policies, Codes, plans and management practices) provide for continuing improvement in relation to ESFM.
36. The Commonwealth accredits Victoria’s current forest management system for East Gippsland, as amended by this Agreement. The system includes:
• the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan and the process for its review; • the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988; • the process for forecasting sawlog sustainable yield in East Gippsland; and • the systems and processes established by the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production and the Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land.
Sustainability indicators
37. Parties agree that the current forest management system could be enhanced by further developing appropriate mechanisms to monitor and review the sustainability of forest management practices. To ensure that this occurs, parties agree to establish an appropriate set of sustainability indicators to monitor forest changes. Any indicators established will be consistent with the Montreal Process Criteria and Indicators (Attachment 8) and they will be practical, measurable, cost-effective and capable of being implemented at the regional level.
38. Parties will assess the outcomes of the Montreal Process Implementation Group (MIG) process by the end of 1997. After considering the extent to which the MIG process provides, or is likely to provide, relevant indicators, the process to be used in developing indicators for application in East Gippsland will be determined. Any process adopted will provide for appropriate public consultation and determine the frequency of reporting.
101 39. In developing effective indicators, parties agree to take into account the results of the Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation’s East Gippsland pilot study to develop effective regional indicators.
40. Development of indicators, and collection of results for those indicators which can be readily implemented, will be completed in time to enable assessment at the first five yearly review of this Agreement.
Private land
41. The parties reaffirm their commitments made in the NFPS to the conservation and management of the private forest estate. The parties note that Victoria has, under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, native vegetation retention controls to regulate the clearance of native forest on private land.
42. Victoria will continue to encourage private forest owners to ensure that their management operations are consistent with the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production, and to have in place adequate mechanisms to protect nature conservation and catchment values.
Threatened Fauna and Flora
43. Where threatened species, ecological communities and threatening processes restricted to Victoria are listed under both the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992, any new or revised Action Statements will be jointly prepared to meet the requirements of both acts. Where the Action Statements meet the requirement of the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992, the Commonwealth agrees to adopt Action Statements as Recovery Plans under Section 46 of the Endangered Species Act 1992.
44. National Recovery Plans for items listed under both Acts and extending beyond Victoria will be prepared jointly with Victoria and other relevant governments, and incorporate the agreed Action Statement as the Victorian component of the National Recovery Plan.
45. Parties will continue to consult on the priorities for listing threatened species, ecological communities and threatening processes, and the preparation of Action Statements and Recovery Plans, recognising that priorities can change in the light of new information. Currently agreed priorities for the next five years are outlined in Attachment 4.
46. Parties agree that within five years pest plant and pest animal control programs will be developed in accordance with the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan.
THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM
102 47. Parties agree that the primary function of the CAR Reserve System is to ensure the conservation and protection of environment and heritage values.
48. Parties agree that the CAR Reserve System that is identified on Map 1 and described in Attachment 1 satisfies the JANIS Reserve Criteria1. Each element of the reserve system will be administered in accordance with Victorian legislation.
49. Victoria agrees to implement the tenure and zoning changes described in Attachment 1.
50. Parties agree that any changes to that component of the CAR Reserve System in State forest will only occur in accordance with this Agreement, will not lead to a net deterioration in the protection of identified values, and will be publicly available.
51. Victoria agrees to produce and publish by June 1997 an amendment to the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan that describes the changes to management zones and protection levels to different values brought about by this Agreement. In addition the amendment will:
• explain the role of the JANIS Reserve Criteria in attaining a CAR Reserve System; and • amend the ‘Guidelines for Reviewing Management Strategies and Zones’ on page 79 of the Forest Management Area Plan as described in Box 1 in Attachment 5.
52. Parties recognise that all Victorian rainforest is protected from harvesting through the range of mechanisms described in Attachment 1.
INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT
53. Parties will facilitate industry development through enhanced resource certainty, recognising that a purpose of this Agreement is to provide long-term stability of forests and forest industries. The Commonwealth will facilitate industry development by not preventing enterprises obtaining, using or exporting timber, woodchips or unprocessed wood products sourced from the East Gippsland region. In addition, parties will encourage:
• introduction of new technology; • value adding; • utilisation of regrowth timber for sawn products; • thinning of regrowth forests; and • extraction of residual wood.
1Proposed Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Reserve System for Forests in Australia. A Report by the Joint Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council/Ministerial Council on Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture National Forest Policy Statement Implementation Sub-committee, September 1996.
103 INDIGENOUS HERITAGE
54. Victoria will, in accordance with the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan, formalise a consultation, participation and negotiation mechanism with the relevant Aboriginal groups in East Gippsland to ensure the appropriate management of Aboriginal heritage, including the maintenance of traditional and historic uses and values, in East Gippsland.
55. This Agreement is not intended to influence either current or future Native Title claims in any way. Where any government action to implement this Agreement could affect Native Title, that action will be taken in accordance with the Native Title Act 1993.
PLANTATIONS
56. The Commonwealth will seek to remove export controls on unprocessed timber sourced from Victorian plantations before the end of March 1997.
OTHER FOREST USES
57. Parties agree that forest uses other than timber production will be determined in accordance with Victorian legislation with due regard for protection of environmental and heritage values. In some limited circumstances that do not relate to the substance of this Agreement (for example foreign investment approval, export controls for non-forest products and major infrastructure developments) Commonwealth legislative provisions may also apply.
58. Parties recognise that under legislative provisions in Victoria, issuing of new exploration licences and subsequent mining is not permitted in National Parks, Wilderness Parks, State Parks and Reference Areas.
59. Parties recognise that exploration and mining may be permitted in other parts of the CAR Reserve System where the identified conservation values are not incompatible with exploration and mining. Victoria will ensure proposed mining activities in the CAR Reserve System will be the subject of an individual Environmental Effects Statement as defined by the Environment Effects Act 1978. In the case of exploration, the provisions of the Mineral Resources Development Act 1990 require the application of conditions to protect environmental values, and may in the case of proposed road construction or bulk sampling require an exploration impact statement. Where such exploration activities are proposed in the CAR Reserve System, Victoria will ensure an impact statement is carried out.
60. Rehabilitation of any mine site will be in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral Resources Development Act 1990, and it will aim to achieve world’s best practice.
104 COMPETITION PRINCIPLES
61. Parties recognise that under the Competition Principles Agreement, Governments aim to achieve more transparency and greater efficiency in Government owned business enterprises. The Commonwealth agrees that the day to day pricing and allocation arrangements for wood from public forests are matters for Victoria. Victoria confirms its commitment to the pricing and allocation principles set out in the National Forest Policy Statement. Victoria confirms that legislation and policies relevant to the allocation and pricing of hardwood logs from State forests will be reviewed as part of the Competition Principles Agreement before the end of 1999. Competitive neutrality principles will be taken into account in any changes following the review.
RESEARCH
62. The results of the Comprehensive Regional Assessments of the forest values of East Gippsland indicated a number of areas requiring further research. Parties have outlined research priorities in Attachment 7.
63. Parties agree to consult each other in the development of future research projects that may affect the Agreement and note that the subject areas and priorities may change throughout the duration of the Agreement.
64. Parties agree to make publicly available, wherever possible, research reports relevant to this Agreement. In addition, Victoria agrees to publish its rainforest research by December 1997.
FUNDING
65. The parties agree that achieving the objectives of this Agreement will require the commitment of financial resources from both Governments.
66. The Commonwealth will consider assistance for the development of sustainability indicators and work on endangered species. Under these circumstances where possible and appropriate, Victoria will administer funds provided by, and on behalf of, the Commonwealth for projects agreed within the context of this Agreement. Where this occurs, Victoria will establish appropriate financial review and monitoring arrangements agreed by the Commonwealth.
DATA AGREEMENT
67. Parties agree to develop an agreement concerning the management of the data used to develop this Agreement within six months of signing. The data agreement will cover:
• ownership and custodianship;
105 • archival lodging and location and associated documentation standards; and • access, use and maintenance of the data.
Parties also agree to lodge archival copies of data within six months of signing this Agreement.
Signed for and on behalf of each of the Parties by:
The Honourable John Howard MP ) Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia ) on the third day of February 1997 ) in the presence of
The Honourable Jeff Kennett MLA ) Premier of the State of Victoria ) on the third day of February 1997 ) in the presence of
106 ATTACHMENT 1
COMPREHENSIVE ADEQUATE AND REPRESENTATIVE (CAR) RESERVE SYSTEM
In East Gippsland, the CAR Reserve System on public land comprises areas established by legislation for conservation purposes (eg. National and State Parks) and areas reserved for conservation within the East Gippsland Forest Management Plan in Special Protection Zones (SPZ).
The CAR Reserve System has the following three components as described by the JANIS Reserve Criteria: i. Dedicated Reserves. This comprises reserves established through legislation for conservation purposes such as National Parks, State Parks or Flora and Fauna Reserves. ii. Informal Reserves. This comprises elements of the SPZ shown on Map 1. iii. Values Protected by Prescription. This comprises those elements of the SPZ protected by regional prescriptions, including stream buffers and all remaining rainforest and heathland vegetation together with a surrounding buffer.
Map 1 illustrates the extent of the CAR Reserve System in East Gippsland in Dedicated and Informal Reserves as a consequence of this Agreement.
To implement the CAR Reserve System Victoria will:
1. Within one year, change the tenure of the following areas of State forest to Dedicated Reserves as shown in Table 1 and illustrated on Map 1.
Table 1: State forest areas to become Dedicated Reserves Map Locality New Tenure Reference A Ellery Creek National Park B Martins Creek Flora and Fauna Reserve C Goolengook Flora and Fauna Reserve
Parties recognise that Victoria may need to amend the boundaries of the Martins Creek Flora and Fauna Reserve to accommodate future infrastructure development.
In the period between signing this Agreement and implementation of these tenure changes, Victoria will manage these areas in accord with the proposed tenure.
2. Amend the Zoning Scheme of the lower Snowy River Corridor to reflect accurately the Heritage River Corridor, and the zoning of State forest sites as identified in Table 2:
107 Table 2: Amendment to State forest Management Zones Site Current Zone New Zone Number 1 SMZ SPZ 2 SMZ SPZ 3 SMZ SPZ 4 SMZ SPZ 11 GMZ SPZ 12 GMZ SPZ 15 GMZ SPZ 16 GMZ SPZ 24 GMZ SPZ 29 GMZ SPZ 31 GMZ SPZ 33 GMZ SPZ 34 GMZ SPZ 35 GMZ SPZ 39 GMZ SPZ 43 GMZ SPZ 45 GMZ SPZ 53 GMZ SPZ 56 GMZ SPZ 59 GMZ SPZ 62 GMZ SPZ 64 GMZ SPZ 67 GMZ SPZ 69 GMZ SPZ 71 GMZ SPZ 72 GMZ SPZ 73 GMZ SPZ 74 GMZ SPZ 88 GMZ SPZ 112 SMZ SPZ 125 GMZ SPZ 129 GMZ SPZ 143 GMZ SPZ 157 SMZ SPZ 158 SMZ SPZ 170 GMZ SPZ 180 GMZ SMZ 95 SPZ SMZ 96 SPZ GMZ 101 SPZ SMZ 103 SPZ GMZ 106 SPZ SMZ 107 SPZ SMZ 114 SPZ SMZ 130 SPZ GMZ 135 SPZ GMZ 136 SPZ GMZ 183 SPZ GMZ
SPZ -Special Protection Zone SMZ- Special Management Zone GMZ -General Management Zone
The change in status of each site will be effective on the signing of this Agreement.
Levels of protection achieved in the CAR Reserve System by this Agreement will be
108 included in the amendment to the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan.
RAINFOREST PROTECTION IN THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM
All rainforest in Victoria, including a surrounding buffer, is excluded from timber harvesting. This is achieved through a hierarchical rainforest protection reserve system. An NRE Technical Report to be published by the end of 1997 will fully explain the system. The report will include a description of Sites of Significance for Rainforest and their levels of significance (National, State and Regional) and how these are managed. The report will also detail how core zones, which contain the major rainforest stands, have been identified within each site of significance and how they contributed to the design of the SPZ in the Forest Management Plan.
Prior to this Agreement the approximate protection of core zones within Dedicated Reserves was 70%, 42% and 32% for sites of National, State and Regional significance respectively. These protection levels were augmented through the creation of Informal Reserves (part of the SPZ) in the East Gippsland Forest Management Plan. Selection of core zones for inclusion in Informal Reserves was based on their significance, the amount of past disturbance in the vicinity and the degree to which comparable areas were represented in Dedicated Reserves. These Informal Reserves increased the total reservation of rainforest core zones to 90%, 66% and 65% respectively.
All remaining rainforest stands are protected in the prescription component of the SPZ through the implementation of the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production. The key elements of the Code with respect to rainforest conservation include:
• maintaining at least 20m buffers around linear strips of rainforest and 40m buffers around the larger stands, • the protection of buffers from damage caused by trees felled in adjacent areas, and • the requirement that rainforest be identified on each coupe plan and that buffers be identified in the field.
The protection of rainforest has been enhanced through this Agreement by the establishment of the Martins Creek and Goolengook Flora and Fauna Reserves. Protection within the Dedicated Reserves is now afforded to most stands in all National Rainforest Sites of Significance.
109 ATTACHMENT 2
LISTING, PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL ESTATE VALUES IN EAST GIPPSLAND
PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL ESTATE VALUES
1. Both parties endorse the findings of the Australian Heritage Commission/Dept Natural Resources and Environment (AHC/DNRE) study of National Estate in East Gippsland (the Joint Study) and agree that national estate values exist as documented in publicly available plots of GIS coverages and the following published documents: Methods Papers: East Gippsland National Estate Assessment, Volume One - Natural Values (1996); Methods Papers: East Gippsland and Central Highlands Joint Forest Projects, Volume Two - Cultural Values (1994); and, Comprehensive Regional Assessment - East Gippsland - National Estate Report (1996).
2. Both parties recognise that the extensive and systematic information and regional framework provided by the Joint Study and this Agreement provide a unique regional context for national estate values in East Gippsland.
3. Both parties agree that many of the national estate values are well reserved in the CAR Reserve System and that the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan incorporates the conservation of many other national estate values within the region.
4. Both parties agree that national estate values will be conserved through the application of the principles for managing national estate values as detailed in Section 6.4 of the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan.
5. Both parties endorse the continuing joint preparation of a set of management guidelines, the Guidelines for the Management of Cultural Heritage Values in the Forests, Parks and Reserves of East Gippsland and agree to finalise this document by June 1997. When completed Victoria agrees to manage in accordance with these guidelines.
6. Victoria will formalise a consultation, participation and negotiation mechanism with relevant Indigenous groups to ensure appropriate management of Indigenous heritage in East Gippsland, including the maintenance of traditional and historic uses and values.
7. Both parties agree to maintain the databases of the values identified in the Joint Study and cooperate in relation to access to the data.
8. Parties agree that the sensitivity or resilience of each national estate value, and the appropriate approach to management of each value is as shown in Appendix 1 to this attachment.
110 LISTINGS IN THE REGISTER OF THE NATIONAL ESTATE
Existing Listings
9. Parties note that the Commission has agreed to update the Statements of Significance and condition and description statements for all existing listings to incorporate the results of the Joint Study.
• Existing National Estate places are to remain in the Register of the National Estate - the results of the Joint Study verify the listing of existing National Estate places. Areas on the Register that encompass a variety of land tenures will have their Statements of Significance updated with the values identified in the Joint Study, and the Condition Statement amended to reflect the protection and management status of the area they cover.
Listings Arising from the Joint Study
10. Parties agree to recommend to the Commission new listings which will include national estate values protected by reservation, by reserve management prescription, by site exclusion, by consultation processes or other measures appropriate to the value, or which are robust and not affected by harvesting or other off-reserve management regimes or activity.
11. Parties note that the Commission will work in cooperation with Victoria in delineating places for National Estate listing. The identification of these areas will be based on the following principles:
• New listings in Dedicated Reserves (within the CAR Reserve System) and Informal Reserves, the boundaries of which are unlikely to change, should be distinct places and may be based on any national estate values.
• Listing of other National Estate places outside the CAR Reserve System will be based on robust values and those values that are protected by forest management prescription. Areas of contiguous values will be listed as a single National Estate place.
• Boundaries for listing National Estate places outside the CAR Reserve System will be based on identified values and will follow natural topographic features and/or roads as appropriate. In areas where a national estate value overlaps an Informal Reserve, but also continues outside that reserve, the full coverage of the value will be listed and it will be recognised that a portion of this value is protected.
• For places arising from the Joint Study, only places identified by the above principles will be listed in the Register of the National Estate.
12. Both parties note that the identification and assessment of national estate values for the CRA has been completed with the only exception being Indigenous
111 heritage. Parties note that the Commission will continue to work with Victoria and Indigenous communities in an effort to finalise this work.
Future Listings
13. The parties note that the Commission does not intend to undertake any further major regional studies of forests in East Gippsland.
14. Parties note that the Commission confirms that, based on the Joint Study, there is no evidence to identify additional large areas with national estate values in the forested areas of East Gippsland and that it therefore does not anticipate listing additional large places in the region.
15. Parties note that future nominations will be referred to them by the Commission. The parties agree to work cooperatively and in a timely fashion in considering whether such nominations will be recommended to the Commission for listing. The parties are to compare the nominations with the existing agreed East Gippsland national estate database, and to consider any new research or information provided. Parties will also jointly agree on any future recommendations to the Commission for listing. The parties note that the Commission will work cooperatively with Victoria on the detail of any consequent listings that may arise.
STATUTORY ADVICE
16. Both parties have agreed that all identified national estate values will be considered in ongoing management decisions and that the advice of the Commission will be sought in relation to proposed actions which might adversely affect national estate values in East Gippsland, notwithstanding that some of these values may be in areas that are not within the CAR reserve system and are not within places in the Register of the National Estate. Parties note that the Commission will take into account the outcomes of the RFA work in providing its advice, and will continue to provide such advice in a regional context.
17. The parties note that the Commission may delegate the section 30 function for the East Gippsland RFA area to an appropriate official in a Victorian Agency. This delegation would be limited to the East Gippsland RFA area, and those operations which affect those aspects of the forest estate documented in the CRA.
112 ATTACHMENT 3
MILESTONES
Clause Action Timeline 20 Commonwealth to seek passage of amendments to June 1997 woodchip export regulations under the Export Controls Act 1982 29 Victoria to implement an on-going quality assurance 2000 programme 34 Victoria to complete and publish regional prescriptions December 1997 for timber production 34 Victoria to complete and publish management plans December 1998 for all National and State Parks 34 Victoria to implement the Integrated Forest Planning 2001 System and the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory 38 Victoria and the Commonwealth to assess the December 1997 outcomes of the Montreal Process Implementation Group (MIG) process 40 Victoria and the Commonwealth to develop 2002 sustainability indicators 45 Victoria and the Commonwealth to undertake and 2002 where relevant complete threatened species work as detailed in Attachment 4 46 Victoria to develop programs for pest plant and pest 2002 animal control 49 Victoria to implement agreed tenure changes to February 1998 establish the CAR Reserve System 51 Victoria to publish an amendment to the East June 1997 Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan 56 Commonwealth to seek to remove export controls for March 1997 timber sourced from all Victorian plantations 61 Victoria to complete a review in accordance with the 1999 Competition Principles Agreement 64 Victoria to publish its rainforest research December 1997 67 Victoria and the Commonwealth develop a data June 1997 agreement and lodge archival copies of data
The milestones in this Attachment should be read in conjunction with the relevant clauses in the Agreement.
113 ATTACHMENT 4
THREATENED FLORA, FAUNA AND COMMUNITIES
Both parties recognise the range of mechanisms in place to conserve the habitat of rare and threatened flora and fauna in East Gippsland. These include protection within Dedicated Reserves and the Special Protection Zone (SPZ) or Special Management Zone (SMZ) in State forest, protection of key habitats such as rainforest, heathlands, and rare or threatened Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC) under the Forest Management Plan, and the development of Action Statements or Recovery Plans for species listed under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1991 and the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.
Current priorities for developing Recovery Plans and Action Statements for fauna, flora and EVCs are as follows:
1. Priority fauna species for preparation of Recovery Plans/ Action Statements
Species Name Common Name Activity
Mammals Petrogale penicillata Bush-tailed Rock- Recovery Plan & Review wallaby Action Statement Dasyurus maculatus Spot-tailed Quoll Recovery Plan & Review Action Statement Potorous longipes Long-footed Potoroo Recovery Plan & Review Action Statement Pseudomys fumeus Smoky Mouse Action Statement Miniopterus schreibersii Common Bent-wing Bat Action Statement Phascogale tapoatafa Brush-tailed Phascogale Action Statement Birds Ninox strenua Powerful Owl Action Statement Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl Action Statement Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl Action Statement Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo Action Statement Dasyornis brachypterus Eastern Bristlebird Recovery Plan & Action Statement Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot Recovery Plan & Action Statement Pezoporus wallicus Ground Parrot Recovery Plan & Action Statement Reptiles Morelia spilota Diamond Python Action Statement Cyclodomorphus michaeli Eastern She-oak Skink Action Statement Eulamprus kosciuskoi Alpine Water Skink Action Statement
114 Amphibians Mixophyes balbus Southern Barred Frog Action Statement Fish Pototroctes maraena Australian Grayling Action Statement Gobiomorphus australis Cox’s Gudgeon Action Statement Hypseleotris compressa Empire Gudgeon Action Statement Crustaceans Euastacus diversus Orbost Spiny Crayfish Action Statement
2. Priority plant species for nomination under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and subsequent preparation of Action Statements/Recovery Plans.
This list comprises species considered to be nationally endangered or vulnerable, or endangered at the State level but not currently covered by an Action Statement or Recovery Plan.
Taxon Activity
Pultenaea parrisiae ssp. Recovery plan and nominate and proceed parrisiae toward Action Statement Acacia caerulescens Recovery plan and nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Prasophyllum morganii Recovery plan and nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Pomaderris brunnea Recovery plan and nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Thelymitra matthewsii Recovery plan and Action Statement Correa lawrenciana var. Nominate and proceed toward Action genoensis Statement Alectryon subcinereus Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Dendrobium speciosum var. Action Statement speciosum Christella dentata Action Statement Pseudoraphis paradoxa Action Statement Gahnia subaequiglumis Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Cryptostylis erecta Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Sarcochilus falcatus Action Statement Acacia binervia Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Dipodium hamiltonianum Action Statement Psoralea tenax Action Statement Pterostylis dubia Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement
115 Thelymitra sp. aff. pulchella Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement Poa aff. tenera (Capillary) Nominate and proceed toward Action Statement
3. Priority Ecological Vegetation Classes for preparation of Action Statements
Priority will be given to preparation of Action Statements for floristic communities that are listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and which fall within the following Ecological Vegetation Classes:
• Limestone Grassy Woodland • Montane Riparian Woodland • Limestone Pomaderris Shrubland • Warm Temperate Rainforest • Dry Rainforest • Coastal Grassy Forest
116 ATTACHMENT 5
GUIDELINES FOR REVIEWING MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND ZONES
Box 1 will replace the current guidelines in page 79 of the East Gippsland Forest Management Area Plan. Where proposed changes to the CAR Reserve System are made in accordance with this Attachment, the Commonwealth agrees to accept those changes.
Box 1 GUIDELINES FOR REVIEWING MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND ZONES
Management guidelines in this Plan will be reviewed under the following circumstances: • When research information on key species becomes available (for example, on completion of the current Long-footed Potoroo research, or population viability analyses for other threatened species). • If new species are identified that are considered threatened. • As required by new legislation, policies or Action Statements. Management zone boundaries may require review if: • Changes to management strategies for certain species or values mean that the zoning system is more or less than adequate for those values. • Field inspections or better mapping indicate that minor amendments are required to create practical management boundaries. • A zone is found not to contain the values for which it was identified; amendments may be required to ensure that conservation targets are met. • New records are listed for species whose conservation targets have not been met. • New records of some species warrant changes to zones to consolidate an area of good quality habitat in exchange for an area of poorer-quality habitat. • Existing boundaries are found to place unreasonable restrictions on the practical access to areas for forest management or for infrastructure development (easements etc). Proposed zone amendments will be assessed according to whether they: • Ensure the CAR Reserve System continues to comply with the JANIS Reserve Criteria. • Adequately conserve the values identified in the Comprehensive Regional Assessment data sets. • Consider the maintenance of National Estate protection.
117 • Conserve the values highlighted in the zoning scheme register of this Plan. • Ensure there is no net deterioration in the level of protection of identified values in the SPZ. • Ensure there is no net deterioration in timber production capacity. • Maintain a well-distributed, inter-connected network of protected areas. • Minimise practical problems for timber harvesting or access in the General Management Zone. • Make the best use of areas that are unavailable for timber harvesting due to other considerations such as slope, access and site quality. • Avoid conflict with strategic burning corridors.
118 ATTACHMENT 6
PUBLIC REPORTING AND CONSULTATIVE MECHANISMS
Public reporting and consultative mechanisms relevant to the management of East Gippsland’s forests include:
• Land Conservation Council studies; • preparation and amendment of the Forest Management Plan, National Park management plans, and regional fire protection plans; • activities associated with the implementation of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988; • preparation and review of Codes of Practice; • preparation of Wood Utilisation Plans and Fuel Reduction Burning Plans; • technical, research and other reports on such topics as - Sustainable Yield Reviews - Regeneration Performance - Old-growth Surveys - Annual Reports of the Forest Management Area - Updates of the Schedules of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. • nomination, preparation and possible contraventions of recovery plans and threat abatement plans prepared under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992; • listing of places on the Register of the National Estate under the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1974.
119 ATTACHMENT 7 RESEARCH
The major priority of future research will be the development of appropriate mechanisms to monitor the sustainability of forest management practices. To help underpin this work, and ensure that forest management practices continue to improve, research will continue on the following major themes. • silviculture • flora and fauna conservation • soil and water conservation • fire ecology • wood quality in regrowth forests.
Parties also recognise the importance of continuing research to address: • control of feral predators • environmental weed control in priority areas • population monitoring of high priority threatened flora and fauna species. • the effectiveness of Ecological Vegetation Classes as surrogates of biodiversity • the development of ecologically based fire management regimes • the effect of regrowth forests on water yields and their impacts on stream biota • the effect of introduced fish species on aquatic fauna • growth responses and ecological impacts of intensive silviculture in regrowth forests. • stem defect and wood quality in regrowth forest • technologies and processes associated with the development of high value wood products.
120 ATTACHMENT 8
MONTREAL PROCESS CRITERIA FOR THE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF TEMPERATE AND BOREAL FORESTS
Criterion 1: Conservation of biological diversity • Ecosystem diversity • Species diversity • Genetic diversity Criterion 2: Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystems Criterion 3: Maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality Criterion 4: Conservation of soil and water resources Criterion 5: Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles Criterion 6: Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic benefits to meet the needs of societies • Production and consumption • Recreation and tourism • Investment in the forest sector • Cultural, social and spiritual needs and values • Employment and community needs Criterion 7: Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management
121 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR
FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant
VICFORESTS Respondent
ANNEXURE 4 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS
Central Highlands Regional Forest Agreement 1997
Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053
122 MGE3 13
CENTRALHIGHLANDS REGIONAL FOREST AGREEMENT
between
THE COMMONWEALTHOF AUSTRAUA
&
THESTATE OF VICTORIA
27 March1998
123 14
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS REGIONAL FOREST AGREEMENT
between
THE COMMONWEALTHOF AUSTRALIA
&
THESTATE OF VICTORIA
27 March1998
124 15
THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS REGIONAL FOREST AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made on the 2.7 rs.. day of n�rc."' 1998 BETWEEN
THE STATE OF VICTO�A, ("Victoria"or ''the State"), and
THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA("the Commonwealth").
Recitals WHEREAS:
Purpose of Agreement
A This Regional Forest Agreement ·(RFA) establishes the framework for the management of the forests of theCentral Highlands. Parties are committed to ensuring the Agreement is durable and that theobiigations and commitments that it containsare delivered to ensure effective conservation, forestmanagement and forestindustry outcomes.
B This Agreement is a Regional Forest Agreement, for the purposes of the Export Control Act 1982, Export Control (Hardwood Wood Chips) (1996) Regulations and the Export Control(Regional Forest Agreements)Regulations. As such, the Agreement: • identifies a Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Reserve System and provides forthe conservation of thosear eas; • provides for the ecologicallysustainable management and use of forests in the region; • is for the purpose of providing long-term stability of forests and forest industries; and • has regard to studies and projects carried out in relation to all of the following matters relevant to the region ._ (a) environmental values, including old growth, wilderness, endangered species, nationai estate valuesand world heritage values; (b) indigenous heritage values; (c) economic values of forested areas and forest industries; (d) socialvalues (including communityneeds); and (e ) principles of ecologically sustainable management.
C This Agreement is divided into Parts. Part1 applies to thewhole Agreement. Part2 is not intended to create legally binding relations. Part 3 is intended to create legally binding relations. The Attachments are not intended to create legally binding relations except to. the extent that this is necessary to give effect to Part3 .
.... 125 16
NOW IT IS AGREED as follows:
PART1
Interpretation
1. This Agreement is to be interpreted, unless the contrary intention appears, with reference to the definitions and generalprovisions specifiedin clauses 2 and3.
Def'mitions and General Provisions
2, In thisAgreement unless the contraryintention appears:
"Action Statement,, means an Action Statement made under the Flora and Fauna GuaranteeAct 198� (Vic);
"Agreement" means all parts of this Agreement between the Commonwealth of Australiaand the State of Victoria and includes the Attachmentsto thisAgreement;
"Australian Heritage Commission" or ''the Commission" means the Commission established by the AustralianHeritage CommissionAct 1975 (Cwth);
"Biodiversity" means biodiversityas definedin the JANISReport;
"CARReserve System" means areas under any of the following categories of land tenure - as described in the JANlS Report - Dedicated Reserves, Informal Reserves and other areas on Public Land protected by prescription, and areas of private land where the CAR values are protected under secure management arrangement by agreement with private landholders. Thisreserve system is based on the principlesof comprehensiveness, adequacy and representativeness;
"CAR Values" means the conservation values as described by the JANIS Reserve Criteriaembodied in the CAR Reserve System;
"Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production" means the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production Revision No 2 1996 developed in accordance with theConservation, Forestand LandsAct 1987 (Vic);
"Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land" means the Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land developed pursuant to the Conservation, Forests and LandsAct I 987 (Vic);
"Competition Principles" means principles as described in the Compendium of National Competition Policy Agreements, January 1997, National Competition CoW1cil;
"Comprehensive Regional Assessment" or "CRA" means the assessment process carried out pursuant 1.o Attachment I of the Scoping Agreement for Victorian Regional Forest.Agreements between the Commonwealth of Australia and the State of Victoria;
126 17
"Crown land" means land which is, or is deemed to be, unalienated land of the Cro\\'.D, and includes-- (a) land of the Crown reserved permanently or temporarily or set aside by or underan Act; and (b) land of the Crown occupied by a person under a lease, licence or otherright. "Dedicated Reserve" means a reserve equivalent to International Union for the Conservation of Nature andNatural Resources (IUCN) Protected Area Management Categories I, II, III, or N as defined by the IDCN Commission for National Parks and Protected Areas (1994). The status of Dedicated Reserves is secure, requiring action by the Victorian Parliament or in accordance with Victorian legislation for reservation or revocation. In Victoria, Dedicated Reserves include, but are not limited to, parks under the National ParksAct 1975 (Vic) and flora, faunaor nature conservation reserves under the Crown Land (Reserves)Act 1978 (Vic); "Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management" or "ESFM" means forest management· and use in accordance with the specific objectives and policies for ecologically sustainable development as detailed in the Na�ional Forest Policy Statement; "Eco_logical Vegetation Class" or ''EVC'' means for thepurposes of the Agreement a forest ecosystem as defined in theJANIS Report. EVCs as they exist at thepresent time are describedin the CentralHighlands CRA"Biodiversity Report" published by the Commonwealth and Victorian RFASteering Committee in 1997; "Environmental and Heritage Values" means values assessed pw-suant to Attachment I of the RFA Scoping Agreement; ''Environment Conservation Council'' means the Council of the same name establishedunder the Environment Conservation Council Act 1997 (Vic); "Forest Management Area" or "FMA" means a Forest Management Area as defmedin theForests Act 1958 (Vic); "Forest Management Plan" meansa forest managementplan as definedin the Code of Practices for Timber Production to address the fulJ range of values and uses in State forest; "Forest Management System" means the State's suite of legislation, policies, codes, pJans and management p�ctices and processes as described in the "Victorian Statewide Assessment ofEcological Sustainable ForestManagement" published by the Commonwealth and Victorian RF A Steering Committee in 1997 as varied by this Agreement; "ForestProducts" means all live anddead trees,fems or shrubsor partsthereof; "Forestry Operations" means
(a) the planting.of trees; or
(b) the managing of treesbefore they are harvested; or (c) the harvesting of Forest Products forcommercial purposes and includes any related land clearing, landpreparation and regeneration (including burning), and transportoperations;
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"General Management Zone" means the zone of the same name described in the Forest ManagementPlan for the CentralHighlands;
"Informal Reserve" means a reserve that contains and is managed for.conservation values which unequivocally contribute to the CAR Reserve System and meets the principles for Infonnal Reserves as described in the JANIS Report. In Victoria, it includes, but is not limited to, the State forestSpecial Protection Zone;
"Integrated Forest Planning System" means Victoria's integrated forestplanning system forforecasting sustainable yield;
"Interim Forest Agreement" means the Interim Agreement between the Commonwealthof Australiaand the Stateof Victoria signedin January 1996;
"JANIS Report" means the report by the Joint Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) / Ministerial Council on Forestry, Fisheries and. Aquaculture (MCFFA) National Forests Policy Statement Implementation Sub-committee, titled 'Nationally Agreed Criteria for the Establishment of a Comprehensive, Adequate andRepresentative Reserve System for Forestsin Australia', published by the Commonwealth of Australiain 1997;
"JANIS Reserve Criteria" means the criteria as described in the JANIS Report for establishing theCAR Reserve System addressing·bio diversity, old growthforest and wilderness, taking account of reserve design and management and social and economicconsiderations;
"Land Conservation Council" means the Council established under the fonner Land ConservationAct 1970 (Vic);
"Licence, Permit or Authority"in clause 90 means any licence permit or authority pursuant to the MineralResources Development Act 1990 (Vic) and the Extractive IndustriesDevelopment Act 1995 (Vic);
"Mineral" means mineral as defined in the Mineral Resources Development Act 1990 (Vic) and stone as defmed in theExtractive Industries DevelopmentAct 1995 (Vic), excluding sto,ie on private land for the private use of the ownerand mineral or storieobtained for non-commercial purposes;
"M�ing'' meansany operation or work carried out to obtain Minerals;
"Mining Operations" means
(a) any operations or work of a commercial nature carried out on a mining licence or extractive industry work authority with a view to obtaining or treatingMinerals; or
(b) where a valid explorationlicence or extractiveindustry search pennitheld, is any operations or work in the area covered -by that licence or search pennit forthe _purpose of exploring for Minerals; "Mining Product" meansany Mineral obtained by Mining;
"Montreal Process Criteria" means the Montreal Process criteria for the conservationand sustainable managementof temperate and boreal forests;
128 19
"Montreal Process Implementation Group" or "MIG" means the Montreal Process Implementation Group established by the Commonwealth and all State and TerritoryGovernments;
"National Estate" means those places as defined under section 4 of the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975 (Cwth);
"National Estate Values" means values attributed by the Australian Heritage Commissionto theNational Estate;
"National For-est Policy Statement" or "NFPS" means the National Forest Policy Statement 1992 endorsed by the Commonwealth and all State and Territory Governments;
"Old Growth forest" means old growthforest as defined in theJANIS Report;
"Parties" means theState of Victoriaand the Commonwealth of Australia;_
"Party"means a Party to thisAgreement;
"Private Land" means lands other than Public Landand land owned or leased by the Commonwealth;
"Public Land" means public land as defined in section 3 of the Environment Conservation Council Act 1997 (Vic)i
"Recovery Plan" means a recovery plan made under Part 3 of the Endangered SpeciesProtection Act 1992{Cwth);
"Regional Forest Agreement" or "RFA" means a Regional Forest Agreement within the meaning of the Export Control (Hardwood Wo,od Chips) (1996) Regulations (Cwth);
"Register of the National Estate" means the register of the same name kept pursuantto theAustralian Heritage CommissionAct 1975 (Cwth);
"Special Protection Zone" or "SPZ" means thezone of the same name describedin the Forest ManagementPlan for the Central Highlands;
"State Forest" means landdescribed in section 3 of theForests Act 1958 (Vic);
"Statement of Significance" means a statement of significance made by· the AustralianHeritage Commission for a place which fonnspart of theNational Estate;
"Statewide Forest Resource Inventory" or "SFRI" means Victoria's Statewiqe Forest Resource Inventoryof Victoria'spublic native forestresources;
"Sustainability Indicators" means qualitative or quantitative measures, at the regional (sub-national) level developed to assess the criteria for sustainable forest management;
"Sustainable Yield" means sustainable yield rate as defined in theForests Act 1958 (Vic);
"Threat Abatement Plan" mean!! a threat abatement plan made underPart 3 of the Endangered Species ProtectionAct 1992 (Cwth);
129 20
"Wilderness Values" means the values of the same name as defined in the JANIS Report;
"Wild Rivers"means a river of natural origin, in which the.biological, hydrological and geomorphological processes of river flow, and intimately linked parts of its catchment, have not been significantly altered by modern or colonial society. Wild riversmay include pennanent,seasonal or underground water courses;
"�oodchips and Unprocessed Wood" means those goods within the meaning of the Export Control (Hardwood Wood Chips) (1996) Regulations; the Export Control (Regional Forest Agreements) Regulations; and the Export Control (Unprocessed Wood) Regulations;
"World Heritage Nomination" means the submission by the Commonwealth of a nominated area· to the UNESC0 World Heritage Committee for assessment as a World Heritage area;
"World Heritage Values" means features, formations, areas, and sites of outstanding universal value within the meaning of Article 2 of the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, also known as theWorld HeritageConvention.
3. Inthis Agreementunless the contraryintention appears:
(a) a reference to a clause or Attachmentis a reference to a clause or Attachment to this Agreementand a reference to this Agreementin cludes a referenceto an Attachment;
(b) a reference to this Agreementor anotherinstrument is a reference to this Agreement or that other instrumentas amended or variedfrom time to time;
(c) a reference to a statute or ordinance includes any consolidations, amendments, re enactments or replacements thereof and also includes regulations and other instruments made under them;
(d) a reference to a code or other instrument includes any consolidations or amendments thereof;
(e) a word importing the singular includes the plural and vice versa, a word importing a gender includes each other gender anda referenceto a person includes an individual, finn, body corporate, association (whether incorporated or not), government, governmental or semi-governmentalbody, local authorityor agency;
(f) a reference to an act, matteror thing includes the whole or any part of that act, matter or thing and a reference to a group of acts, matters, things or persons includes each act, matter,thing or personin that group;
(g) where any te�s and conditions are added to an Attachment of this Agreement it is agreedthat those termsand conditions will formpart of this Agreement;
(h) headings are inserted for convenience and do not affect the interpretation of this Agreement.
130 21
Definition of Region
4. The area covered by this Agreement is the Central Highlands Region as shown in Map l accompanyingthis Agreement.
Duration of Agreement
5. ThisAgreement talces effect either:
(a) upon signing by bothparties; or
(b) upon the conunencement"ofregulations amending Item 2 of the Schedule to the Export Control (Hardwood Wood Chips) (1996) Regulation with the effect of changing the descriptionof the CentralHighl ands Region of Victoria to accord withthe boundaries of that Region as shown in Map 1 accompanying this Agreement; whichever the later, aud will remain in forcefor twenty years.
6. l11eprocess for extending theAgreement for a furtherperiod will be detenninedjointly by theParties as partof the third fiveyearly review.
Basis of Agreement-NationalForest Policy Statement
7. Parties confinn their commitment to the goals, objectives and implementation of the National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) by:
• developing and implementingEcologicaUy Sustainable Forest Management(ESFM); • establishinga Comprehensive, Adequateand Representative (CAR) reserve system;and • facilitating the development of an internationally competitive wood production and wood products industry.
Changes to the Agreement
8. This Agreement may only be amended with the consent, in writing, of both·Parties. Parties agree to work cooperatively to address any differences between them as to the interpretationor implementation of the Agreement.
DisputeResolution
9. TheParties agreethat if a dispute arises between the Parties regardingthis Agreement it must be resolved expeditiously in accordancewith the provisions of clauses l Oto 14.
IO. When a dispute arises, a Partymay serve a notice on the otherspecifying:
(a) 'the nature and substance of the matter or issue in dispute;
(b) that it is a dispute to be resolved in accordance with clauses 10 to 14.
I 1 . Within 14 days of the notice under clause IO being served the Partiesmust attemptto settle the dispute and, in default of settlement, appou1t a mediator to conduct a mediation concerningthe matter or issue in dispute.
131 22
12. If the dispute is not settledunder clause 11 and the Parties fail to appoint a mediator, either of them may request the President of the Law Council of Australia, or the equivalent officer of such body as in future may have the functions of die Law Council of Australia, to nominate a mediatorto conduct themediation.
13. The costs of a mediator appointed under clauses 11 or 12 are to be shared equally betweenthe Parties.
14. Each of the Parties agrees to use its best endeavours to resolve the dispute through mediation.
Notices
15. Any notice or other communication to be given or made pursuant to thisgr A eement shall be iriwriting and addressedas the casemay be asfollows:
1HESTATE
TheSecretary Departmentof Premierand Cabinet Treasury Place EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002
1HE COMMONWEALTII
TheSecretary Departmentof d1e Prime Ministerand Cabinet 3-5 National Circuit BARTON ACT 2600
132 23
PART2
16. ThisPart is not intended to create legally binding relations andprovisions in Part I in so faras they relate to Part 2 !ll'C also not binding. Where there are references in this Partto obligations which are referred to in Part 3 and are intended to be legally binding, they are only included in Part 2 insofar as they provide context and for thesake of .completeness so that the whole scheme which the Parties wish to implement is set out in this Part. The inclusion of references to theselegally binding obligations in Part 2 does not derogate from th�Parties intent that they be legally binding in Part 3.
FUNCTIONINGOF THE AGREEMENT
Relationship to the Interim Forest Agreement
17. This Agreement replaces the Interim Forest Agreement, signed by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments on 27 January 1996, in relation to the Central Highlands Region.
Relationship to Statutory Obligations
18. This Agreement cannot impose on eitherP.arty or a thirdparty any obligation that is inconsistent with Australia's international obligations, or a law of the Commonwealth or of Victoria.
19. Neither Party will seek to use existing or future legislation to undermine or impede thisAgreement. 20. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirm.� that its obligations under the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975 have been met.
21. Parties will manage their respective responsibilities with regard to the National Estate ina�cordance with theprovisions of this Agreementas detailed in Attachment 3. 22. The Commonwealth confirms it has on or before the date of this Agreement entered irito an agreement with the Australian Heritage Commission in which the Commission has agreedto perform and comply with all the agreements andconftnnations which arespecified in Attachment3 as beiqg agreementsand confirmationson the partof the Commission.
23. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirms that its obligations under the Environment Protection (Impact of. Proposals) Act 1974 have been met. The Commonwealth also confinns that, lDlder the administrative procedures of the Act, any activities covered by theAgreement, including the 5 yearly review and minor amendments to the Agreement, will not trigger furtherenvir onmental impact assessment.
24. The Commonwealth, in signing the Agreement, confirms that its obligations under II the EndangeredSpecies Protection Act 1992 have been met. 25. The Commonwealth notes that its obligations to promote endangered species protection will involve ongoing cooperative work with Victorian agencies concerning the CentralHighlands.
26. Parties agree to actively investigate,and participate in, WorldHeritage assessment of the Australia-wide Eucalypt theme, including any potential contribution from the Central Highlands region.
133 24
27. Parties note that in order to progress work and then proceed to World Heritage nomination, theagreement ofall relevant governmentswill be required.
28. Parties agree that any potential World Heritage nomination involving areas in the Central Highlands will be fromwithin the CAR Reserve System.
29. The Commonwealth agrees that it will give full consideration to the potential socio economic consequences of any World Heritage nomination of places in the Central Highlands and that any such nomination will only occur after the fullest consultation and withagreement of the State.
30. The·Pamesagree that beforeany World Heritagenomination is made:
• all necessary management arrangements, including joint policy coordination arrangements will be agreed; and
• a11 related funding issues will be resolved to the satisfactionof both Parties.
31. Parties note that cUITent Commonwealth export arrangements provide that, after 31 December 1999, exports of hardwood woodchips from na tive forestswill only be permitted fromareas covered by an RFA.
32. Parties note that no controls under the Export Control Act 1982 will apply to hardwood woodchi,ps or unprocessed wood sourced from the Central Highlands region while thisAgreement is in place.
33. The Commonwealth notes Victoria's intention to separate more. clearly its commercial forestry activities within native State forests from the broader policy, strategic planningand regulatory functions associated withthe management of thoseforests. Victoria also confirms its commitment to the ongoing implementation of its plans, codes and prescriptions relevant to theachievement of�SFM..
34. The Commonwealth notes Victona•s change to the administration arrangements applying to the management of its parks, and that the primaryemphasis of management will continueto be theconservation and protectionof environmental and heritagevalues.
Milestones 35. Tiris Agreement establishes milestones (Attachment 4) and Parties .will report . annually on their achievement for the first five years, and then as theyfall due and as partof the 5 yearlyreview, using anappropriate public reportingmechanism.
Fiveyearly review 36. Within each five year period, a review of the performance of the Agreement will be underta�en. The purpose of the fiveyearly review is to provide an assessment of progress of theAgreement against the established milestones, andwill include:
0 the extent to whi�h milestones and obligations have been met including management of theNational Estate; • theresults of monitoringof sustainabilityindicators; and • invitedpublic commenton theperformance of theAgreement.
Each-review will be scheduled concurrent with the five yearlyr eviews required for the East GippslandRF A.
134 25
37. While the review process will not open up the Agreement to re-negotiation, both Partiesmay agree to some minor modificationsto incoryoratethe results of the review.
38. The outcomes of thereview will be made public. Themechanism for the review will be determined by both.Parties before the end of the five year period and the review will be I completed within three months. I ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT 39. The Parties agree that ESFM is an objective which requires a long termcommitment to continuous improvement and thatthe key elements for achieving it are:
II • the establishment of a CAR ReserveSystem (Attachment l); • the development of internationally competitiveforest products industries; and • a fully integrated and strategic forest management system capable of responding to new information.
40. The Parties agree that Victorian processes and systems provide for ecologically sustainable management of forests in the Central Highlands and that these processes and systems are accredited in clause 47 of thisAgreement.
Monitoring, Reporting and Consultative Mechanisms i· l 41. Victoria will report on the results ofm(?nitoring of sustainabilityindicators.
42. Comprehensive Regional Assessments and the development of this Agreement have provided extensive opportunities for public participation and reporting. Parties recognise that the public reporting activities and on-going opportunities for public participation and consultation associated with existing Victorian and Commonwealth processes and instruments will continue. These processes are listed in Attachment5.
43. In addition to these activ.ities, Victoria agrees to publish future reports of audits of compliance with the Code of Forest Practices forTimber Production. Supporting documents will also be publicly available.
44. Victoria will further develop the transparency and accountability of its forest management processes through the implementation of an on-going quality assurance program. The program will be implemented, within three years, utilising expertise external to the forest agency in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or its equivalent.
45. Victoria undertakes to:
(a) complete and publish regional prescriptions for timber production by the end of 1998; (b) use its best endeavours to complete and publish management plans for all National and StateParks by the end of 1998; (c) continue to manage the dedicated reserves within the CAR Reserve System in accordance with t:l}e relevant government approved recommendations of the Land ConservationCouncil; (d) manage cultural values, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, in the Central Highlands, based on Statewide Guidelines for the Management ofCultural Heritage Values in Forests, Parks and Reserveswhich will be jointly agreed; and
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(e) implement the Integrated Forest Planning System and the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory (SFRI) in the CentralHighlands in time for the next review of sustainable yield due in 2001. Accreditation 46. Parties agree that Victoria's forest management system (including its legislation, policies, Codes, plans and managementpractices ) as described in the Statewide Assessment of Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management and including responses reported in Chapter 5 of the Central Highlands RFA Directions Reportprovides for continuing improvement in relation to ESFM. 47. The Commonwealth accredits Victoria's forest management system for the Central Highlands as amendedby thisAgreement. Thesystem includes: • the Forest Management Planand the process for its review; • theFlora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988; • theprocess forforecasting sawlog sustainable yield in the CentralHighlands; and • the systems and processes established by the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Productionand the Code of Practicefor Fire Mallilgement on Public Land. Sustainability indicators 48. Partiesagree thatthe current forest managementsystem could be enhancedby further developing appropriate mechanisms to monitor and review the sustainability of forest management practices. To ensure that this occurs, Parties agree to establish an appropriate set of sustainability indicators to monitor forest changes. Any indicators established will be consistent with the Montreal Process Criteria (�s amended from time to time), the current form of which is specified in Attachment7, and will take into account the framework of regional indicators developed by the Montreal Process Implementation Group (MIG). Indicators will be practical, measurable, cost-effective and capable of being implemented at theregional level. 49. In developing effective indicators, Parties agreeto take into account the results of the Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation's pilot studies for the development of effectiveregional indicators. 5 0. Development of indicators, and collection of results forthose indicators which can be readily implemented, ·win be completed in time to enable assessment during the first review of this Agreement. Private land 51. The Parties reaffirm their commitments made in the NFPS to the conservation and management of the private forest estate. The Parties note that Victoria has, under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, native vegetation retention controls to regulate the clearanceof native foreston privateland. 52. Victoria will continue to encourage private forest owners to ensure that their management operations are consistent with the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production, and to 'have in place adequate mechanisms to protect nature conservation and catchmentvalues. 53. Ecological vegetation classes which are priorities for the CAR Reserve· System and which occur on private land are listed in Attachment 1. Parties agree that the EVCs listed in Attachment 1 can be managed to protect values consistent with the JANIS Reserve Criteria
136 '[{
or could contribute to the CAR Reserve System through a range of mechanisms, with the consent of theland owner. ThreatenedFlora and Fauna 54. The Parties agree that the CAR Reserve System, actions under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and theEndangered Species Protection Act 1992, and the application of a range of managementstrategies in the Central Highlands Forest ManagementPlan provide fot theprotection of rarethreatened or flora andfauna species and ecological communities. 55. Where threatened species, ecological communities and threatening processes restricted to Victoria arc listed underboth the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 andthe Endangered Species Protection Act 1992, any new or revised Action Statements will be jointly prepared to meet the requirements of both Acts. Where theAction Statements meet the requirement of theEndangered Species Protection Act 1992, the Commonwealth intends to adopt Action Statements as Recovery Plans underSection 46 of theEndangered Species Protection Act 1992. 56. Recovery Plans for items listed under both Acts and extending beyond Victoria will be prepared jointlywith Victoriaand otherrelevant governments, andincorporate the agreed Action Statement as theVictorian componentof theRecovery Plan. 57. Parties will continue to consult on the priorities for listing threatened species, ecologicalcommunities andthreatening processes, and the preparationof Action Statements and Recovery Plans, recognising that priorities can change in thelight of new information. Currently agreed priorities and commitments for the next five years are outlined in Attachment 2. 58. Parties rcaffinn their commitment that species in the Central Highlands for which RecoveryPlans or Action Statements have alreadybeen preparedwill have all recommended actionscompleted or significantlyadvanced in accordance withthe timelinesspecified in the RecoveryPlans or Action Statements. 59. Parties agree that within five years pest plant and pest animal control programs will he developedin accordance withthe Central Highlands Forest Management Plan.
I THECAR RESERVESYSTEM l-. I 60. Parties agree that the primary function of the CAR Reserve System is to ensure the 1- conservationand protection of environment and heritage values. 61. Parties agree that the CAR Reserve System as identified on Map 1 and described in Attachment 1, in conjunction with the arrangementsproposed for private land in Attachment 1, satisfies the JANIS Reserve Criteria. Each element of the reserve system will be administered in accordance withVi ctorianlegislation. 62. Victoria agrees to implement the CAR Reserve System described in Attachment 1 and identifiedon Map 1. 63. Parties agree that changes to that component of the CAR R�serve System u;i State forest will only occur in accordance with this Agreement, will not lead to a net deterioration in theprotection of identified CAR values 1 , and will be publicly available. 64. Parties agree that 1'est endeavourswil l be used to maintainthe levels of protection of ·'. national estate values in a regional context, however, minor changes to the levels of . protection of individual values may occuras a result of changes to theCAR ReserveSystem in �tate forest. .... ! 1 Identified CAR values are those conservation values addressedin the JANIS Report.
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65. Victoria agrees to produce and publish by 30 June 1998 the Central Highlands Forest Management Plan that reflectsthe outcomes of this Agreement. 66. Parties recognise that all Victorianrainforest is protected fromharvesting throughthe range of mechanisms describedin Attachment 1.
INDUSTRYDEVELOPMENT 67. TheParties agree that State forest outside the CAR Reserve System is available for timber harvesting in accordance withthe Central Highlands Forest ManagementPlan and the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production. Victoria also confirms that the sustainable yield for forests for the Central Highlands will continue to be based on areas available for timberharvesting outside the CAR Reserve System. 68. Parties agree that any changes to the area of State forest will not lead to a net deterioration in the timber production capacity of those areas available for harvesting in terms of volume, species and quality. 69. The Parties acknowledge that the forest-based industries in the Central Highlands make a significantcontribution to both the regional and State economies and are an essential component of many communities in the region. TheParties intend that this Agreement will enhance opportunities for further growth and development of forest-based industriesin the Central Highlands and provide long-terni stability for these industries. The Parties therefore acknowledge that this Agreement must provide enhanced security of access to resources oil forested land for thelife of the Agreement. This, in tum will facilitate industry development through: • new investment, plantation development, reforestation, downstream processing, value adding and jobs growthin forests-basedindustries;
• further introduction of new technology, enhanced utilisation of regrowth timber orf sawn products, thinningof regrowthforests and more efficientutilisation of resi dualwood; • investment in mineral exploration and mining; and • tourismand recreation investment. 70. As part of providing greater security of access to forest resources, the Commonwealthwill not prevent enterprises obtaining, using orexporting timber, woodchips or unprocessedwood products sourcedfrom the CentralHighlands region in accordance with this Agreement. 71. TheParties acknowledge that this Agreement is expected to provide as a minimum the current legislated susta1nable yield of D+ sawlogs (415,000 m3 per annum) from the Dandenong, Central and Central Gippsland Forest Management Areas (FMAs) for the next twenty years, but recognise that sustainable yield levels in Victoria are subject to periodic review. Economic and social issues have been taken into account in providing a land base that is expected to deliver these yields. Sustainable yield levels in these FMA:s will be reviewed when new resource information· becomes avmlable from the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory (SFRI) which should be completed by the end of 19·99; When the sustainable yield for these FMAs is confirmed following this review, Victoria agrees to supply the revised sustainable yield level from these FMAs to the industry, in accordance with the requirements of the Forests Act. However, the Parties note that Victoria is 3 committed to supply, as a minimum, the currentlicensed volume ofD+ sawlogs (345,000m per annum)for the next twentyyears from these FMAs. TheParties also agree that Victoria will manage the forest estate in the Central Highlands to at least maintain its timber production capacity in termsof volume, species and quality.
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72. Wherever possible Victoria will enhance Statewide silvicultural programs and reforestationworks to improve the productive capacityof State forests. 73. Both Parties are committed to the implementation of a Hardwood Timber Industry Development and Restrncturing Program for Victoria. Parties agree to d�velop a Memorandum of Understanding for a joint Commonwealth-Victorian Hardwood Timber \ Industry Development and Restructuring Program which will establish the respective rolesand · responsibilities of the two governments in administeringthe program. TheParties further agree that a total of $27.6 million is available to implement the program across the five Victorian RFA regions {refer clause 91 ). l lNDIGENOUS HERITAGE l 74. The Parties agree to develop a package of measures that wilt be implemented by Victoria to ensure the appropriate management of Aboriginal heritage including the maintenance of traditional historic uses and values, in the Central Highlands. These measures , . f are the development of Statewide guidelines for the management of cultural heritage values; [ provision for participation and negotiation through the establishment of formal consultation 1:. mechanismswith local i\boriginal communities; modellingto establish priorityareas forfuture surveys of Aboriginal sites; and training of staff. 75. TI1is Agreementis not intended to influence either current or futureNative Title claims in any way. Where any government action to implement this Agreement could affectNative Title, that action will be taken in accordance with the Native TitleAct 1993. PLANTA TIO NS 76. TI1e Parties recognise that export controls have been removed from unproces�ed wood and woodchips sourced from Victorian plantations in accordance with the R"CpOrt Control (UnprocessedWood) Regulations. OTHER FOREST USES 77. . Parties agree that forest uses other than timber production will be detennined in accordance with Victorian legislation with due regard for protection of environmental and heritage values. In some limited circumstances that do not relate to the substance of this Agreement (for example foreign investment approval, export controls for non-forest products and major infrastructuredevelopments) Commonwealth legislative provisionsmay also apply.
78. Parties recognise that under legislative provis1ons in Victoria, issuing of new exploration licences and subsequent mining is not pennitted in National Parks, Wilderness Parks, StateParks and Reference Areas. 79. Parties recognise that exploration and mining may be permitted in parts of the CAR Reserve System, other than those identified in Clause 78, where the identified conservation values are not incompatible with exploration and mining. To this end, Victoria will ensurethat in accordance with relevant Victorian legislation proposed Mining Operations in the CAR Reserve System will be subject to an Environmental Effects Statement or planning pennission (eg planning permit) as required. In the case of exploration, the provisions of the Mineral R.esmtrces Development Act 1990 require the application of conditions to protect environmental values, and may in the case of proposed road construction or bulk sampling require an exploration in,pact statement. Victoria will ensure these provisions apply to . proposed exploration activities in the CAR Reserve System. The Parties · note that, in accordance with the Central Highlands Forest Management Plan, no new activities under the ExfractiveIndustries Development Act 1995 will be permitted in the State forest componentof the CAR Reserve System unless it will make a significant contribution to the regionaleconomy and unless the values within the CAR Reserve System can be maintained or provided for elsewhere.
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80. Rehabilitation of any mining site will be in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral Resources Development Act 1990 or the Extractive Industries Development Act 1995, and it will aim to achieve world's best practice.
81. The Parties recognise that the Central Highlands region is an important source of water, particularly for Melbourne. Victoria will develop a long tcnn timber harvesting and water production strategy for the Thomson Reservoir catchment in accordance with the Central Highlands Forest Management.Plan when timber resource data (SFRI) becomes available in I 999.
COMPETITION PRINCIPLES.
82. Parties recognise that under the Competition Principles Agr�ement, Governments aim to achieve more transparency and greater efficiency in Government owned business enterprises. The Commonwealth agrees that the day to day pricing and allocation arrangements for wood from public forests arc matters for Victoria. Victoria confirms its commitment to the pricing and allocation principles set out in the National Forest Policy Statement. Victoria confirms that legislation and policies relevant to the allocation and pricing of hardwood logs from State forests will be reviewed as part of the Competition Principles Agreementbefore the end of 1999. Competitive neutrality principles will be taken into account in anychanges following thereview.
RESEARCH
83. The results of the Comprehensive Regional Assessments of the forest values of the Central Highlands indicated a number of areas requiring further research. The Compendium of VictorianForest Research (in prep) willprovide a bibliography of research in progress as well as published and unpublished works. Parties have outlined Statewide research priorities inAttachment 6.
84. Parties agreeto consult each otherin the developmentof futureresearch projects that may affect the Agreement and note that the subject areas and priorities may change throughoutthe duration of the Agreement.
85. Parties agree to make publicly available, wherever possible, research reports relevant tothis Agreement.
DATA AGREEMENT
86. Parties note the development of a State-wide data agreement. BothParties agreeto develop a schedule to the State-wide agreement concerning the management of the data used to develop this Agreement within six monthsof signing. The data agreement covers:
• ownershipand custodianship; • archival lodgingand location and associated documentationstandards; and • ac;cess,use and maintenanceof the data.
Parties also agree to lodge archival copies of data within six months of signing this Agreement.
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PART3
Nature of Obligations under this Part
87. It is the intention of the Parties that this Part is to create legally enforceable rights and obligations. It is also their intention that, in the event that any provision of this Part exceeds the power of either Partyor is unenforceable for any other. reason, that provision is to be read as not intending to create legally enforceable rights and obligations.
Forest Management
88. Victoriawill:
88.1. Complete and publish regional prescriptions for timber production by the end of 1998;
88.2. Implement the IntegratedForest Planning System and the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory (SFRI) in the Central Highlands in time for the next review of sustainable yield due in 2001;
88.3. Publish future reports of audits of compliance with the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production;
88.4. Review legislation and policies relevant to the allocation and pricing of hardwood logs from State forest as part of the Competition Principles Agreement before the end of l��
· 88.5. Use its best endeavours to complete and publish management plans for all National and StateParks by the end of 1998.
89. TheCommonwealth will:
89.1. Maintain accreditation of Victoria's forest management system for the Central Highlands as amended by this Agreement providing changes to the system are consistent with the provisions of thisAgreement;
89.2. Not prevent enterprises obtaining, using or exporting timber, woodchips or unprocessed wood products sourced from the Central Highlands region in accordance with thisAgreement.
Compensation
90. TheParties agree that:
90.1. If to protect the environment and heritage values in native forests and in connection therewiththe protectionof: (a) CAR Values; or (b) National Estate Values; or (c) World HeritageValues; or (d) Wild Rivers
the Commonwealth takes any Action during the period of this Agreement which is inconsistent with any provision of this Agreement and a foreseeable and probable consequence of which is to prevent or substantially limit:
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(e) the use of land which is not included within the CAR Reserve System for Forestry Operations which, immediately before the announcement of the proposed Commonwealth Action, .are being undertaken or were intended to be undertaken at any time or the use of land which is not included withinthe CAR Reserve System ·or of land within that system but not within a Dedicated Reserve in which mineral exploration and mining is prohibited pursuant to a statutory licence, permit or authority permitting those Mining Operations which was in force immediately prior to the announcement of the proposed Commonwealth Action;·or,
(f) the sale or commercial use of Forest Products sourced from land which is not included within the CAR Reserve System or the first sale or firstcommercial use of Mining Products sourced from land which is not included within the CAR Reserve System or land within that system but not within a Dedicated Reserve in which mineral exploration and mining is prohibited for a purpose for which, immediately prior to the announcement of the proposed Commonwealth Action, they had been intended to be sold or used commercially at any time; or,
(g) the construction on land which is not included within the CAR Reserve System of roads being built or intended to be built, immediately before theannouncement of the proposed Commonwealth Action, where those roads' primary purpose is for the transportation of Forest Products sourced fromland which is not included within the CAR ReserveSystem, the Commonwealth will pay compensation to the State in accordance with the remaining provisionsof clauses 90.2 to 90.20. 90.2. Subject to:
(a) clauses 90.3, 90.4, 90.5, 90.6, 90.8, 90.9, 90.10, 90.11 and 90.12 thecompensation to be paid by the Commonwealth to the State in accordance with clause 90.1 in relation to the prevention by Commonwealth Action of the use of land for Forestry Operations or prevention by Commonwealth Actionof the sale or commercial use of Forest Productsis theamount of the reasonable loss or damage sustained by reason of that prevention, calculated as at the time at which the prevention referred to in clause 90.1 occurred,by any person in any of the followingcla sses of person: (i) the Ownerof the landor of theForest Products on theland; (ii) any person who, prior to the announcement of theproposed Commonwealth Action but not in anticipation of that Action, entered into a contract withthe Owner of the land or of the Forest Products on the land or with any person mentioned in sub-paragraph (iii) below for the carrying out of Forestry Operationson the land; �d (iii) any person who, prior to the annowicementof the proposed Commonwealth Action but not in anticipation of that Action, entered into a contract with the Ownerof the land or of theForest Products on the land to purchase the Forest Productson theland.
(b) clauses 90.3, 90.4, 90.5, 90.6, 90.7, 90.8, 90.10, 90.11 and 90.12 the compensation to be paid by the Commonwealth to the State in accordance with clause 90.1 in relation to the prevm1tion by CommonwealthAction of the use of land for Mining Operations or the first sale or first commercial use of Mining Products is the amount of the reasonable loss or damage sustained by reason of that prevention, calculated as at the time at which the prevention referred to in clause 90.1 occurred, by any person carrying on Mining Operations on the land pursuantto a statutory licence, permit or authority pennitting those operations which was in force immediately prior to the announcementof the proposed CommonwealthAction.
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(c) clauses 90.3, 90.6, 90.8, 90.11 and 90.12 the compensation to be paid by the Commonwealth to the State in accordance with clause 90.1 in relation to the prevention by Commonwealth Action of construction of a road is the ampunt of reasonable loss or damage sustained by reason of that prevention, calculated as at the time at which the prevention referred to in clause 90.1 occurred, by any person who, immecliately before the announcement of the proposed Commonwealth Action, was contractedto constructthat road.
90.3. No amount of compensation is payable in the event of any loss or damage being sustained which would have been so sustained regardless of the CommonwealthAction. No compensation is payable hereunder in respect of any additional areas included pursuant to this Agreementin theCAR Reserve System.
90.4. 'The State warrants that no claim will be made in respect of areas where Forestry Operations or Mining Operations would not have been permitted by this Agreement and that any claims will be certified by it as being or not being in respect of such areas and as havirig been assessed by theState in this regard.
90.5. The State warrants that no claim wilt be made in respect of Forest Products or Mining Products which would not have been available for sale or commercial use under this ,. Agreementand that any claims will be certified by it as being or not being in respect of such I. ,: I, Productsand as having been assessed by the State in this regard. � � 90.6. The State undertakes to supply to the Commonwealth on request information, r including as to areas protected by prescription, required by the Commonwealth for the purposes of considering claims under this clause.
90.7. To the extent that clause 90.2 (b) relates to loss or damage in respect of an exploration licence or search permit, that clause is to be read as providing for compensation to be payable only: (a) in respect of the part of thearea to which that licence or pennitrelates that is affected by the CommonwealthAction; and (b) up to theloss in market value of that licence or permit resulting from theprevention of theMining Operations.
90.8. Any claim made by the State hereunder is to be notified in writing within 6 months after the loss or damage is sustained.
90.9. For the purposes of clause 90.l(e), the intentionto conduct Forestry Operations is to be established on the basis of contracts, documentation of management history or other records establishing clear intent and in existence immediately prior to the atmouncement of the proposed Commonwealth Action.
90.10. For the purposes of clause 90.l(f), the purpose for which there was an intention to sell or use commercially is to be established on the basis of contracts, documentation of management history or other records establishing clear intent and in existence immediately prior to the announcement �f the proposed CommonwealthAction.
90.11. No compensation is payable under clause �0.2 in relation to any loss or damage which the person who sustained the loss or damage might have avoided by takingreasonable steps in mitigation including by the making of alternative contractual arrangements which would have avoided or reduced that loss or damage.
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90.12. Clause 90.2 does not apply so as to entitle the State to recover compensation more than once in respectof the same loss or damage. 90.13. The initial procedure in relation to a claim for compensationunder this.clause is as follows: (a) The State is to make the claim for compensation by a notice in writing to the Commonwealth which indicates the amount claimed, for whom the claim is made, the area to which it relates and gives detailed particulars of the basis forthe claim, and of themanner in which it has been calculated. (b) Where there is a dispute concerning a claim for compensation, or on or before the expiryof thirtydays afterthe receipt of a claim, the Commonwealth notifiesthe State that it does not accept the amount claimed then either Party may serve a notice of dispute under clause 10. (c) In the event that the amount of compensation payable in response to a claim has not been agreed in the dispute resolution process for which clauses 10 to 14 provide, or the Commonwealth fails to pay the agreed amount of compensation to the State within 60 days of agreement (for reasons other than lack of the necessary appropriation), the Parties hereby refer the claim to arbitrationin accordance withthe Commercial Arbitration .Act J 984 (Vic). 90.14. The procedure in relation to any arbitration required by reason of the provisions of clause 90.13 is as follows:. (a) The Parties must meet to appoint an arbitrator withirt 7 days of an unsuccessful mediation. (b) Ifthe Parties are unable to agree on the appointment of an arbitrator, eitherof them may refer the matter to the Presid�t of theLaw Council of Australia, or equivalent officer of such body as in future may have the functions of the Law Council of Australia, witha requestthat that person appoint anarbitrator. (c) At an arbitrationunder thisclause: (i) the Parties are entitled to representation by a legal practitioner qualified to practice in any State orTerritory of Australia; (ii) the arbitrator may order the Parties to discover any relevantdocuments prior to the hearing; (iii) the arbitrator may order the Parties to exchange proofs of evidence of witnesses(whether expert or not) prior to the hearing; (iv) thearbitrator may, in accordance with the Commercial .ArbitrationAct 1984 (Vic), informhimself or herself in relation to any matterin such manner asthe arbitrator thinksfit; providedthat if the arbitrator- takes - advice from any person --who... is not- a Party to this Agreement as to the~ matters - .. in issue,-- the arbitrator must provide theParties with anopportunity to:
(1) -make submissions on the matter in which the advice is to be taken; (2) make submissions on the identity of the person from whom the advice is to be taken; (3) make submission on the substance of any advice given before making any decision on the issue on which the advice is taken.
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90.15. Unless the Commonwealth appeals the decision of the arbitrator under the Commercial Arbitration Act 1984 (Vic), and subject to clause 90.18, the Commonwealth undertakes to pay the State the amount of any award made by an arbitrator under clause 90.14 as a debt due to the State, within 60 days of the award.
90.16. Except wherethe State isthe person who sustained the relevant loss or damage, any payment of compensation made by the Commonwealth to the State in ac.cordance with this clause will be paid to and received by the State as trustee for theperson who sustained the relevantloss or damage. ,l 90.17. Subject to clause 90.18(b), where the State receives monies as a trustee pursuant to clause 90.16, it will pay those monies to the person who sustained the relevant loss or damage within 30 days.
90.18. (a) Where the Commonwealth has agreed to pay compensation to the State under this clause, or an award of compensation has been made under clause 90.14 as a result of arbitration, and the Commonwealthclaims that events have since taken place which have the result that the compensation so agreed or awarded no longer reflects the actual loss ordamage that has been or will be sustained, the Commonwealthmay by notice in writing to the State, decline to pay that compensation.
(b) If a notice under paragraph (a) is delivered after the State has received the compensation so agreed or awarded, but before the State has paid it to the person who sustained the relevantloss or damage, the Statewill not pay the compensationto thatperson .
(c) If a notice under paragraph (a) is delivered, the Parties will attempt to agree the amoWlt of the compensation which the Commonwealth should pay, and-
(i) in default of agreement, wilt first seek to resolve the dispute by dispute resolution under clauses 10 to 14; and
(ii) in the eventthat the dispute is not so resolved, or the Commonwealth fails to pay the agreed amount of compensation to the State within 60 days of agreement (for reasons other than lack of the necessary appropriation), hereby refer the claim for compensation to arbitration in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Act1984 (Vic)
( d) Subject to paragraph (c) of thisclause, where anarbitration takes place in accordance with sub-paragraph (c)(ii), clauses 90.14 and 90.15 of this Agreement apply to that arbitration and to any amOWltawarded in that arbitration.
(e) If, fo1lowing the observance of paragraph (c) of this clause, it is determined by agreement or award that the Commonwealth should pay a reduced amount of compensation tothe State,the Statewill within30 daysof that detennipation
(i) repay to the Commonwealth theamount by which the compensation paid to it by theCommonwealth is reduced; and
(ii) pay the balance of thecompensation to theperson who sustained the relevant loss or damage.
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(f) If, following the observance of paragraph (c) of this clause, it is detemtined by asreement or award that the amount of compensation previously paid to the State is correct the State will within 30 days of that detennination pay to the· person who sustained the relevant Joss or damage the amount of the compensationpreviously paid toit by the Commonwealth.
90.19. Where the State: (a) has received monies as a trustee pursuant to clause 90.16; and
(b) has made all reasonable endeavours to pay the monies to the person who sustainedthe relevant loss or damage; and
(c) but has been unable to do so withinsix monthsof receiving payment the State shall repay to the Commonwealth at the expiry of tbat period the monies so received.
90.20. In this clause (a) "Action" means
(i) thecommencement oflcgislation or subordinate legislation; and (ii) administrative action which is taken pursuant to legislation or subordinate Jcgi�lation, or otherwisethan in accordancewith such legislation.
(b) "Owner" means
(i) in relation to land
(I} the owner of any estate or interest in that land, including the Crownin right of the State; and
(2) any statutory corporation which has the power to carry on For�tiy Operations or Mining Operations, as the casemay be, Ol'i the ·1and for profit.
(ii) in relation to Forest Products or Mining Products, as the case may be, the owner of anyinterest in those products.
Industry Development Fundine 91. TheCommonwealth will, subject tothe temtS and conditions under anyCommonwealth Act whichappropriates money, provide an amonnt of $13.8 million and Victoria will provide $13.8 million to implement a Hardwood Timber Industry Development and Restructuring Program subject to the development of a Memorandum of Understanding · between thetwo Parties which establishes the respective roles and responsibilities of the two governments in administering the Program.
--- 146 37 Termination
92. ThisAgreement may onlybe terminated by the Commonwealth:
(a) withthe con sent of theState; or
(b) where the dispute resolution procedures in clauses 10 to 14 have been observed and the State has been given a 90 day periodof notice on:
(i) a failure by the State to comply with clause 62, being a failure to implement the CAR Reserve System described in Attachment 1 and to manage and �onservethe identified CARvalues; or
(ii) a failure to comply with clause 65, being a failure to produce andpublish by 30 J\Dle 1998 the C",entral Highlands Forest Management Plan that reflects the outcomes of this Agreement;or
(iii) a failure to comply with publishing and/or reporting requirements in ae<:ordance withclauses 41 and 43 and45(a); or
(iv) a failure to comply with clause 45(e), being a failure to implement the Integrated Forest Planning System and the Statewide Forest Resource Inventory (SFRI) in the Central Highlands in time for the next review of sustainableyield due in 2001 ; or
(v) a failure by the Stateto observe the terms andconditions referred to in clause 91 or a failure to use the money referred to in clause 91 forthe purpose for which it is appropriated;
other thanfailure a of a minor naturewhich is not one orpart of a series of deliberate or reckless failures of a minor nature; andsave that the above provisionsdo noi apply if rectification is possible andhas occurredbefore the end of the 90 dayperiod; or
(c) on a fundamental failureby the State to comply withthe spirit of theAgreement after theobservance of thedi spute resolutionprocedures in clauses 10 to 14.
93. TheAgreement may only be terminatedby theState:
(a) with the consent of theCommonwealth; or
(b) where the disputeresolution procedures in clauses 10 to 14 have been observed and j the Commonwealthbas been givena 90 day period of noticeon: (i) a breach by the Commonwealth of clause 91, being a failure to pay the ·1 financial assistancein accordance withthat clause; or I I (ii) a failure by theCommonwealth to comply with clause 90, being a failure to I 1 pay compensation due underthat clause; \ i save that the ibovc provisions do not apply if rectification is possible and has I occurred befot=e theend of the90 day period; or
(c ) on a fundamental failure by the Commonwealth to comply with the spirit of the Agreementafter the observance of the disputeresolution proceduresin clauses10 to 14.
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INWITNESS WHEREOF thisAgreement has been signedfor and on behalf of theParties as at the day andyear first above written.
SIGNEDby
theHONOURABLE JOHN WINSTONHOWARD MP , PrimeMinister
for andon behalf of theCommonwealth of Australia
in presence of: � the / )
SIGNED by the HONOURABLEJEFF KENNETTMLA, Premier for and on behalf of the State of Victoria
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A'ITACHMENT 1
COMPREHENSIVE, ADEQUATE AND REPRESENTATIVE (CAR)RESERVE SYSTEM
The National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) established that the CAR ReserveSystem will in the first instance be selected from public land. Provision is also made in the JANIS Reserve Criteria for inclusion of private land in the CAR Reserve System, with the agreement oflandholders, where the Criteriacannot be met from public land.
PUBLICLAND
In the Centralllighlands, the CAR Reserve System on publicland primarily comprises areas established for conservation purposes (eg National anct State Parks) and areas reserved for conservationwithin theSpeci al Protection Zone (SPZ) in State forest.
The CAR Reserve System has the following three components, as described by the JANIS Reserve Criteria: i. Dedicated Reserves. This comprises reserves established through legislation for conservationpurposes such as National Parks, State Parksand Flora and Fauna Reserves. ii. Informal Reserves. This comprises clements of the Special Protection Zone (SPZ) in State forest andother areas of public land. iii. Values protected by Prescription. This comprises those elements of SPZ protected by regional prescriptions, including streambuffers and rainforestwith a smToundingbuffer.
The CAR Reserve System covers _an area of approximately 297,000 hectares (about half of the public land in the region or 27 percent of the entire region). Approximately 116,000 hectares have been added to the existingreserve system of 181,000 hectares.
Map 1 illustrates the extent of the CAR Reserve System in the Central Highlands in Dedicated and Informal Reserves as a consequence of this Agreement. Other areasprotected by prescription are also included in the CAR Reserve System: Levels of protection of Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and old growth forest achieved in the CAR Reserve System by this Agreement are shownin Tables 1 and 2.
Victoria willproduce a Central Highlands Forest Management Plan by 30 June 1998 which includes the Special Protection Zone within State forest as illustrated on Map 1. The zoning will be effective on the signing of this Agreement.
The boundaries of the CAR Reserve System at the time of signing this Agreement will be included in the Data Archive for the Central Highlands, as required in the RF A Data Agreement. Copies of theData Archive are to be held by both Parties.
149 40
Table 1 Representative conservation (percentage reservation status) of EVCs in the CARReserve System in the Central llighlandsRegion based on vegetationmapping to establish the pre-1750 extent of EV Cs in the region•.
p Ecololical Vegetation Area PereeDt Status Perunt of EVC (pre-1750)extent in the CAR Cla11 RemalniDg ReserveSynem
Pre 1750 Current Dedicated Informal Pre1crlptlon" Total (ha) (ha) Reserve Reserve• Clay Heathland 27 27 99.2 R 19.8 19.8 LowlandForest 78,992 42,805 54.2 J3.7 2.3 1.0 17.0 Riparian ScrubComplex 9,992 2,695 27.0 V 1.0 0.1 I.I RiparianForest 43,059 31,801 73.9 15.5 19.7 S.1 40.2 HeathyDry Forest 15,025 14,435 96.1 26.6 37.l ·1.2 64.8 GrassyDry Forest 73,892 41,579 56.3 19.2 4.7 0.3 24.2 Herb-richFoothill Forest 168,346 123,049 73.1 11.6 10.6 2.4 24.6 RockyOutcrop Scrub 311 227 73.1 R 62.9 62.9 RockyOutcrop Shrubland 19 5 28.0 VR 0.2 0.2 DampForest 198,726 162,307 81.7 16.6 8.5 4.4 29.S Wet Forest 123,752 120,068 97.0 28.7 10.9 6.3 45.9 31.6 Cool TemperateRainforest 12,984 12,970 99.9 R 43.8 5.5 80.8 MontaneDry Woodland 7,087 7,050 99.S 3.2 47.7 2.4 53.2 Montane DampForest 20,506 20,150 98.3 7.7 15.5 6.0 29.1 MontaneWet Forest 50,319 49,678 98.7 33.6 9.1 3.7 46.3 Montane Riparian Thicket 3,056 3,056 100.0 33.3 17.6 13.0 63.9 Sub-alpine Woodland 7,262 7,259 100.0 78.9 5.4 0.5 84.8 TreelessSu�·alpiue 1,855 1,825 98.4 84.9 7.1 1.4 93.4 Complex ShrubbyFoothill Forest S0,296 35,482 70.5 22.4 3.1 0.8 26.2 Valley GrassyForest 64,452 7,201 11.2 EV 1.6 0.1 1.7 Heathy Woodland 17,876 6,684 37.-4 21.4 1.7 0.3 23.4 Wet/SwampHeathland 6,250 3,779 60.S 47.1 0.2 47.3 SwampScrub S,655 429 7.6 E Box Woodland 25,339 328 1.3 E 0.2 0.2 Plains GrassyWoodland 44,721 1,475 3.3 E 0.2 0.6 0.8 Floodplain Riparian 18,016 2,431 13.5 6.2 6.2 Woodland EVR RiparianThicket 1,726 1,006 58.3 4.1 28.9 33.1 Box lronbarlcForest 1,449 711 49.I 1.8 S.7 7.5 GraniticHills Woodland 1,258 215 17.1 EV RiverineEscarpment Scrub 765 241 31.5 VR 20.9 20.9 Swampyru parian 2,530 964 38.1 15.6 15.6 Woodland Grassland 7,982 15 0.2 E GrayClay Drainage Line 560 0 0.0 E Complex 1.2 Plain& GrassyWetland 354 4 1.2 ER 1.2 Swampyrupar;an Complex 50,889 5,945 11.7 EV 0.8 0.( 0.9 Valley Heathy Forest 4,155 347 8.4 E l.3 Grassy Forest 10,059 2,682 26.7 EV 1.3 SwampF�tion 12 I 10.7 V Damp Sands Herb-rich 162 46 28.4 EV 19.S 19.S Woodland Riverine Forest 210 4 1.9 E Rock - 23 ClearedLand 23 405,145 Water Bodies 4 13,809 TotalArca 1,129,953 1,129,953
150 41
NOTESACCOMPANYINGTABLEl a. Thefigures shown in this tablearc based on modelledinformation llJIIJ)pedat a 5eale of 1: 100,000 derivedduring the pre· 1750 analysis ofvegc:lationtypes in the Central Highlands, and are therefore only approximate. b. E--endansered,V"'Vulnerablc:, Rcrare in accordance withthe JANIS ReserveCriteria. c. Informal Reserve includes broad areas and linearelements of SPZ greaterthan 100 metres and otherinfonnal reserves. d. This comprises thoseelements of SPZ protected by rqional prescriptions, including streambuffers and ninforeatwith a SU!'TOundingbuffer.
Table 2 Representative conservation of Old Growth inthe CARReserve System in the Centralfflghlands Region•.
Percentof Old Growthin the CAR ReserveSystem EcolocicalVegetation Class AreaEVC Percentof Area Old Dedicated Informal Prucrlptloa• Total (ha) EVC11 Gnnt1h Raerve R.uerve� Old (ha) Growth Lowland Hc:athy Foothill Forest 42,805 a. Thefigures shownin this table are basedon modelledinfonnation mapped at a sea.le of I :100,000 derived during· the old growthanalysis of vegetationtypeS in theCentral Highlands, and aretherefore only approximate. b. lnfonnal Reserveincludes broad &RU and linearelements of SPZ greaterthan I 00 metresother and informal reserves. c. Thiscomprises those elements of SPZ protected byregional prescriptions, including stream buffersand rainforestwith a surroundingbuffer. Endangered, Vulnerable or RareEVCs The entire occurrence of the endangered, vulnerable or rare EVCs Rocky Outcrop Scrub, Rocky Outcrop Shrubland, Clay Heathland and Damp Sands Herb RichWoodland on public land is within the CARReserve System. Inclusionof thePlenty Gorge Parklands(excluding Yan-ambat Park and private land not owned by Parks Victoria) within the CAR Reserve System has increased representation of Riparian Scrub, Valley Grassy Forest, Plains Grassy Woodland, Riverine Escarpment Scrub, Plains Grassy Wetland, Swampy Riparian Complex and Box Ironbark EVCs in the CAR Reserve System. The distribution of these EVCs outside of the· CARReserve System is predominantly on private land. MontaneDry Woodlandand MontaneDam p Forest Stands of Montane DryW �dland are distributedacross thenorth-eastern part of the Central Highlands Region and extend into the adjoining RFA regions. In the Central Highlands region, the representation of Montane Dry Woodland in the CAR Reserve System is 53.3 percent of the EVC's pre-1750 extent. Of this 53.3 percent, 3.2 percentis within Dedicated Reserves. Montane Damp Forest also occurs in the north-eastern area of the Central Highlands, often in association with Montane Dry Woodland. The Representation of Montane Damp Forest in the CAR Reserve System is 29.2 percent of the EVC's pr�1750 extent. Of this, 7.7 percent is within Dedicated Reserves. L 151 42 Given that the JANIS Reserve Criteria refer to maximising representation of vegetation communities in theDedicated Reservecomponent of theCAR Reserve System, the Parties to this Agreement will review the representation of Montane Dry Woodland in the Dedicated Reserves in a broader sub�regional context by taking into account the representation of this EVC in Dedicated Reserves in the adjoining RFA regions. · It is further agreed that any addition of Montane Dry Woodland to Dedicated Reserves in the Central Highlands region would, if required, be achieved from within the CAR Reserve System established in this Agreement and will take into consideration the distributionof MontaneDamp Forest. RainforestProtection All rainforestin Victoria, including a surroundingbuffer, is excluded fromtimber harvesting. This is achieved through an hierarchical rainforest protection reserve system. A Technical Reportto be completed in 1998, willfully explain the system including a description of Sites of Significancefor Rainforest across the State and their level of significance (National, State and Regional) and how they aremanaged. Rainforest stands are protectedthrough all CAR Reserve components. Protectionthrough the prescription component is effected through implementation of the Code of Forest Practices for Timber Production. Thekey elementsof theCode with respect to rainforest conservation include: • defined areas of rainforest , and a strategy for their management, included as part of planning for conservation of flora and fauna in Forest Management Plansand/or relevant. prescriptions. Themost important rainforest areas should be accorded highest protection; • in the absence·of detailed strategies within an approved Management Plan, prescriptions are provided for stands of lesser significance, for stands where Nothofagus makes up >20% of the canopy, and forstands containing nationallysignificant rainforest; . • the requirement that rainforest be identified on each coupe plan and that buffers be identifiedin the field; • the protection of buffers from damagecaused by treesfelled in adjacent areas. In accordance with the Code, the Central Highlands Forest Management.Plan outlines a strategy forthe management of rainforestin State forest. PRIVATELAND The NFPS established that the CAR Reserve System will in the first instance be selected from public land. · However, the NFPS and National Reserve Criteria (JANIS 1997) recognise that a range of strategies will l)e appropriate forprotecting biodiversity on private land. These range from purchase of priority areas for inclusion in the_ reserve system, to mechanisms which ensure protection, such as covenants on freehold land. Inclusion of private landin theCAR Reserve System will be voluntary. Mechanisms which provide for the protection of biodiversity on private land in Victoria include: • Conservation�,:>venants under the Victorian Conservation TrustAct 1972; • Land Management Cooperative Agreements under the Conservation Forests and Lands Act 1987; • Wildlife ManagementCooperati\le Areas underthe WildlifeAct 1975; • Critical habitatprovisions of theFlora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988; • Provisions of thePlanning and Environment Act 1987. 152 43 Private land protected by these mechanisms could he included in the CAR Reserve System withthe consent of thelandholder. Endangered, vulnerable and rare EVCs within the Central Highlands have been assessed within a Statewide context to identify the importance of the region for their conservation. Thepriorities for prote.ction ofEVCs occmring in theCentral Highlands is shown in Table 3. The distribution of these EVCs, outside of the CAR Reserve System, is predominantly on privateland. Table 3 Priorities for the CAR Reserve System Priority for 1>rotectionofEcoloeical Vee:etation Classes me:hPrioritv Moderate Prioritv Low Priority Vallev GrassyForest Cool Temoerate Rainforest RiverineForest Plains GrassyWoodland Box IronbarkForest GraniticHills Woodland Grassland Valley HeathyForest Damp Sands Herb-rich- Woodland Grey Clay Drainage Line <3.!assy Forest Clay Heathland Comolex Plains Grassy Wetland Box Woodland Riparian Scrub Comnlex Swamp Forest (partof Floodplain Riparian RockyOutcrop Scrub Swampy.RiparianComplex Woodland in theCentral Highlands CRAReoort) Swamp Scrub RockyOutcron Shrubland Gully Woodland (partof Riverine EscarpmentScrub SwampyRiparian Complex in the CentralHighlands CRAReoort) Swampy Woodland (partof Swamp Formation Swampy RiparianComplex inthe CentralHighlands I • I CRAReoort) I Both Parties agree that within the Statewide framework established in the Victorian Biodiversity Strategy and Regional Catchment Strategies, Victoria will review privateland in the Central Highlands and identify native vegetation, including endangered, wlnerable and rareEVCs (listed in Table 3), whichare prioritiesfor protection and passibleinclusion in the CAR Reserve System. This review wil1 be undertaken in consuJtation with, and the agreement of, landholders and will be incorporated in� Regional Vegetation Plans which will be produced by 2�01. Victoria further agrees to review conservation covenants, established under the Victorian Conservation Trust Act 1972, in the Central Highlands region, to identify the conservation covenants which cover land with the EVCs listed in Table 3 and which may be suitable for inclusion in the CAR Reserve System. Victoria will consult the landholders of these identified conservation covenants as to whether they consent to the covenanted area being included within the CAR Reserve System. If a landholder agrees to inclusion of the area, Victoria will assess the covenanted area, talcing into account the viability, integrity and significance of each area, to detennine whether the covenanted area should be included within the CAR ReserveSystem. 153 44 Victoria will maintain a schedule listing areas of.private land, including Melbowne Water Corporation land as discussed below, which are included in the CARReserve System, and this schedule will be part of the Agreement. The Schedule of the Agreement will be amended from time to time as appropriate. Any amendments will be approved by the Secretaryoftht Department of Natural Resources and Environment. OTHERLAND IDENTIFIED FOR POSSIBLE FUTURE INCLUSION IN THE CAR RESERVE SYSTEM Lands managed by Melbourne Water Corporation listed in Table 4 include areas of endangere� V'.tlnerahlc or rare EVCs which arepriorities for inclusion m theCAR Reserve System. Victoria undertakes to protect significant biodiversity and old growthvalues on theselands for the next twentyyears subject to the managementrequirement to maintainand protect watersupply values andassets. Melbourne Water lands containing the EVCs identified in Table 4 will be assessed by Victoria taking into account the viability, integrity and significance of each occurrence to identify whether the individual areas warrant inclusion within the CARReserve System. The Parties note that if the land containing these conservation values becomes surplus to Melbourne Water requirements and the land is Crown land vested in Melbourne Water, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment will resume the land. Ifit is freehold land, MelbourneWater will eithertransfer ·ownership to theDepartment, or if sold,the range of mechanisms for protection of priority EVCs, as outlined in the preceding section on privateland, would apply. Table 4 Occurrenceof endangered,vulnerable or rare EVCs and Old Growth on MelbourneWater Lands Reservoir EcologicalVegetation Class Area Old Growth Area Cha) 154 45 GUIDELINE FOR REVIEWING MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES, MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONSAND THEZONING SCHEME· Where proposed changes to the CAR Reserve System are made in accordance with the following Guideline in the Central HighlandsFor est Management Plan, the Commonwealth agrees to accept those changes. This Guideline will be included in the Central Highlands Forest Management Plan. MANAGEMENTGUIDELINE Reviewing Management Guidelines, Management Prescriptions and the Zoning Scheme Managementguidelines and prescriptions in this Planmay be reviewedunder the foilowing circumstances: • when new information on the impact of forestmanagement or utilisationactivities on biological or cultural values becomes available; • if the status of a threatened species changes; • if new species are identifiedthat are considered to be threatened; • when monitoring of the practical implementation of thePlan indicates that improvementscan be made; • as required by new legislation, policies oraction statemen�s. Management zone boundariesmay requirereview if: • changesto managementstrategies for certainspecies or values mean thatthe zoning system is more or less than adequate forthose values; • field inspectionsor bettermapping ·indicate that minoramendments arerequired to create practical managementboundaries or to more accurately definethe locationof a particular species or value. At the scale of mapping used in this Plan,the boundariesof some values, particularlyrainforest, Leadbeater's Possum Zone lA habitat, rareEVCs � and old growth forest, cannotbe accuratelydefined; • thezone does not contain the values for which it was identified- amendments may be required to ensurethat conservation targetsare met; • new records are listed for species whose conservation targets have not been met; • new records of some specieswarrant changes to zones to include areasof good-quality habitat in exchangefor areas of poorer-quality habitat; • existingboundaries are foundto place unreasonable restrictionson thepractical access to areas for timberproduction or forinfrastructure devel opment (easementsetc). Proposedchanges to the zoning scheme will be assessedaccording to whether they: • ensure the CAR Reserve System:continues to comply with theJANIS Reserve Criteria; • adequately conserve the CARvalues 2 identified in theComprehensive Regional Assessment datasets; • ensure there is no net deteriorationin thelevel of protection of identifiedCAR values in the SPZ; • will maintain the protection of national estate values at the agreed regional scale, noting that as a result of.anychange to the CAR ReserveSystem in State forest,some minor changes to individual values may occur; • consider the maintenanceof National Estate protection; 2 CARvalues means the conservation values as descnbed by the JANISR eserveCriteria embodiedin theCAR Reserve System. 155 46 • conserve thevalues highlightedin thezoning schemeregister of thisPlan; • maintain a well-distributed,inter-connected network of protected areas; • at least maintain the timber productioncapacity of State forestin tenns of volume, species and quality; • minimise practicalproblems fortimber harvesting or access in theGeneral Management Zone; • makethe best use of areasthat are unavailablefor timber harvesting due to other considerations such as slope, access and site quality;· • avoidconflict with strategic burning zones. 156 47 A'ITACHMENT 2 THREATENED FLORA, FAUNA AND COMMUNITIES Both Parties recognise the range of mechanismsin place to conserve thehabitat of rare and threatened flora and fauna in the Central Highlands. These include protection within the CAR Reserve System, protection of key habitats such as rainforest and rare or threatened Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs), and the development of Action Statements for species listed UI_lderthe Flora and Fauna GuaranteeAct 1988 andRecovery Plans for species listed under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992. Parties note that the Recovery Plan for Leadbeater's Possum has been approved under the Endangered SpeciesProtection Act 1992. TheParties further agreeto theinterim strategy for Baw Baw Frogoutlined below. Currentpriorities for developing Action Statements and Recovery Plans for fauna, flora and EVCs in the Central Highlands are as follows. Species which have been identified as priorities in theEast GippslandRF A and whichalso occur within the CentralHighlands have not b�n identified in the followinglist. 1. Priority species and Ecological Vegetation Classes fornomination under the Flora andFauna Guarantee Act 1988. IScientific name ICommon Name Mastacomys fascus Broad-toothedRat Myotismacropus Large footedMyotis Pseudomysfameus Smoky Mouse Accipiternovaehollandiae Grey Goshawk Eucalyptusstrzeleckii Strzelecki Gum Huperzia varia Long Clubmoss Hypsela tridens Hypsella Persoonia arborea Tree Geebung Senecio laticostatus Ridged Groundsel Thelymitracircumsepta Bog Sura-orchid Tmesipteris elongata ssp. elongata Slender Fork-fem Treubiatasmanica Liverwort Valley GrassyForest (or floristfocommunities thereof) Plains Grassy Woodland( or floristic communities- thereof) .... Grey Clay Drainage Line complex (or floristic communitiesthereof) Plains GrassyWetland (orfloristic COl\lillllDities thereof) SwampForest (partof SwampyRiparian Complex inthe L CentralH�hlands CRA Reoort) 2, Priority potentially threatening processes under the Flora and Fauna GuaranteeAct 1988 forpreparation of Action Statements. • Loss of hollow-bearing.trees fromVictorian native forests. • Increasein sediment input into Victorian riversand streams due to humanactivities. • Invasion of native vegetation by environmentalweeds (including "Spread of Pittosporum undulatum in areas outside its natural range"). • Collection of native orchids. • Use of Phytophthora-infected gravel in construction of roads, bridgesand reservoirs. 157 " 48 3. Priority forpreparation of a Threat Abatement Plan under the EndangeredSpecies ProtectionAct 1992. • Phytophthoraspp (in preparation by WA CALM) 4. Priority species for preparation of an Action Statement / Recovery Plan. Scientificname Common Name Action 1 Eucalyptus crenulata Buxton Gum · Recovery Plan Astelia australiana Tall Astelia Recovery Plan' Phebalium wilsonii ShinyPhebalium ActionStatement Thismiarodwayi FairyLanterns Action Statement Caladenia concolor CrimsonSpider orchid ActionStatement RecovervPlan 1 Caladeniarosella Rosella Spider-orchid Action Statement Lepidiumhyssopifolium Small Pepper-cress Action Statement RecovervPlan 1 Amphibromuspithogastrus Swollen Swamp Wallaby- Action Statement 2rass Bracteantha sp. aff. SwampEverlasting Action Statement subundulata Carextasmantca Curly Sedge ActionStatement RecovervPlan 1 Cyathea cunninghamii SlenderTree-fem ActionStatement Grevtllea barklyana ssp, Gully Grevillea Action Statement barklvana Eucalyptusstrzeleckii StrzeleckiGwn RecoveryPlan' Senecio macrocarpus Large-fruitGroundsel Recovery Plan1 Senecio laticostatus RidgedGroundsel RecoveryPlan 1 Reiekoperla darlingtoni Mt Donna BuangWingless Action Statement Stoneflv Austrogammarushaasei Amphipod Action Statement Engaeusphyllocerus NanacanBurrowing ActionStatement Cravfish i' Engaeus sternalis Wanagul Burrowing Action Statement Cravfish I 1 Litoriaspcnceri SpottedTree Frog RecoveryPlan Philoria frosti BawBawFrog Revise ActionStatement Recoverv- Plan1 Prototroctesmaraena AustralianGrayling RecoveryPlan' - Galaxiella pusilla Dwarf Galaxias Recovery Plan' Note: 1 The Commonwealth intends to adopt Action Statements as RecoveryPlans where an Action Statementmeets the requirements of theEndangered Species ProtectionA.ct 1992. BAW BAW FROG (PhUoriafrosti) 1be Parties have agreedto Victoria's interim strategy to protect populations of the Baw Baw Frog. The strategy is descn"bed below. To ensure that viable populations of the Baw Baw Frog persist in the long term, a sufficient area of its habitat must be protected. Areas of habitat in State forest will be protected once the frog's use of breeding habitat is better understood. To achieve this, the following research and surveywill be widertaken: - 158 49 • identificationof breeding andnon-breeding habitat; « survey forthe presence of the frogon the northern faceof the Baw Baw plateau; · • furthersurvey and monitoring of populations onthe so uthern faceof theBaw Baw plateau State forestand reserved areas; • the seasonal use of breeding and non-breeding habitat; and • response to disturbance in the MontaneWet Forest. Until research and survey results are available, so as not to foreclose any long-term protection strategies, the Victorian Department of Natural Resources and Environment will adopt a precautionary approach above the 1000 m contour surrounding theBaw Baw plateau by: • scheduling new coupes only in areas determined not to contain Baw Baw Frog habitat; and • minimising fragmentation of Baw Baw Frog habitat by utiHsing existing roads wherever possible. Where timber harvesting above the 1000 m level on the Baw Baw plateau is proposed prior to the results of thesurvey andresearch, the interim strategyprovides for: • trainingof field staffin the identification of potentialbreeding habitat; • fieldsurvey, prior to harvesting,to confirmprese nce/absence of the species; • protection of identified breeding habitat and associated interim protection zone of up to 200m; and • access for timber harvesting under standard prescriptions only in areas not containing potential habitat. Both Parties recognise that Victoria may adjust the interim strategy to respond to new information obtained from the results of the survey and research conducted during the next one to two years. Long termprotection measures for the Baw Baw Frog will be guided by the results of the survey and research. Victoria will revise the Baw Baw Frog Action Statement by theend of 1999. This strategyis designedto ensure thatviable populations of the Baw Baw Frog persist in the long tenn. Protection of an area containing the highest concentration of environmental values on the south face of the Baw Baw plateau will be considered in conjunction with developing the long termprotection strategy for the Baw Baw Frog. .. 159 50 ATIACDMENT3 LISTING, PROTECTION ANDMANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL ESTATE VALUES INTHE CENTRAL IDGHLANDS Protection and management of National Estate values · 1. Both Parties endorse the findings of theAustralian Heritage Commission/Department of Natural Resources and Environment (AHC/NRE) study of National Estate in the Central Highlands (the Joint Study) and agree that national estate values exist as documented in publicly available plots of GIS coverages and the following published qocumcnts: Methods Papers: Central Highlands Joint Forests Project, Volume One - Natural Values (1994);Methods Papers: East Gippsland and Central HighlandsJoint . Forest Projects, Volume Two· Cultural Values (1994); National Estate Values in the Central Highlands of Victoria - Draft Project Report (1994); and, Comprehen.sive RegionalAssessment - Central Highlands (1997). 2. Both Parties recognise that the extensive and systematic infonnation and regional framework provided by the Joint Study and this Agreement provide a unique regional context fornational estatevalues in theCentral Highlands. 3, BothParties agreethat many of the national estate values arewell reserved in the CAR Reserve System and that the Central Highlands Forest Management Plan and other mechanisms as described in Table 1 provide for the conservation of many other national estate values within theregion. 4. Both Parties agree that all national estate values in the Central Highlands will be conservedthrough the application of theprinciples for managi�g national estate values as detailedin theCentral HighlandsForest Management Plan. 5. Both Parties endorse the joint preparation of a set of Statewide Guidc;lines for the ;. : Management of Cultural Heritage Values in the Forests, Parks and Reserves of Victoria, based on those prepared for East Gippsland, and agree to finalise these guidelines by the end of 1999. When completed Victoria agrees to manage in � accordance with these guidelines. 6. Both Parties agreeto maintain the databases of the value� identifiedin the Joint Study I, and cooperate in relation toaccess to thedata. I, !, Listingsin the Register of the NationalEstate ExistingListings 7. Parties note that the Australian Heritage Commission (the Commission) has agreed to update the Statements of Significance and condition and description statements forall existing listings toincorporate the results of theJoint Study. ' t Parties note that existing national estate places will remain in the Register of the ':·'· National Estate where the results of the Joint Study confinn the presence of national r; estate values. 160 51 Listings Arisingfrom the Joint Study 8. The Parties note that new listings recommended to the Commission will include national estate values protected by reservation, by reserve management prescription, by siteexclusion, by consultation processesor othermeasures appropriate to the value, or which are robust and not affected by harvesting or other off-reserve management regimes or activity. 9. Parties note that the Commissionwill work in cooperation withVictoria in delineating places for National Estate listing. Theidentification of these areaswill be based on the followingprinc iples: • New listings in Dedicated and Informal Reserves, the boundaries of which are unlikely to change, should be distinct places and may be based on any national estatevalues. • Listing of other National Estateplaces outside the CARReserve System will be based on robust values and those values thatare protected by forestmanagement prescription. Areas of contiguous values will be listed as a single. National Estateplace. • Boundaries for listing National Estate places outside the CAR Reserve System will be based on identified values and will follow natural topographic features and/or roads as appropriate. In areas where a national estate value overlaps an Informal Reserve, but also continues outside that reserve, the full coverage of the value will be listed and it will be recognisedthat a portion of this value is protected. • For places arising from the Joint Study, only places identified by the above principleswill be listed in theRegister of the NationalEstate. 10. Both Partiesnote that theidentification and assessment of national estate values for the CRAhas been completed with the only exception being Indigenous heritage. Parties note that the Commission will continue to consult with Victoria and Indigenous corrummitiesin an effort to finalisethis work. Future Listings 11. Parties note that future nominations will be referred to them by the Commission. The Parties agree to work cooperatively and in a timely fashion in considering :whether such nominations will be recommended to theCommission forlisting. TheParties are to comparethe nominations with the existing agreed Central Highlands national estate database, and to consider anynew researchor information provided. Parties will also jointly agree on any future recommendations to the Commission for listing. 1he Partiesnote that the Commission will work cooperatively with Vict()fia on the detail of any consequentlistings that may arise. 12. TheParties note that theCommission has agreed not to undertake any further regional studies of forests in the CentralHighlands. ,' 13. Partiesnote that the Commission confirms that, based on theJoint Study, there is no evidence to identify additional large areas with national estate values in the forested areas of the _Central Highlands and that it therefore docs not anticipate listing additional large places in the region. 161 f. 52 StatutoryAdvice 14. The Parties agree that the advice of the Australian Heritage Commission has already been provided in relation to the protection of national estate values and the impact of forestry activities within the Central Highlands in developing this Agreement. The Commissionis also satisfiedregarding the range of mechanisms and levels of protection affordedto national estate values. 15. TheParties note that theadvice of the Commission will be sought in relation to proposed actions by the Commonwealth which are outside the scope of this Agreement, such as actions specified in Clause 77 of this Agreement, and which might. adversely affect national estate values in the Central Highlands including proposed actions that may affect national estate values in areas outside the CAR Reserve System and which have not been listed in the Register of the National Estate. The Parties note that the Commission has agreed to take into account the undertakings in this Agreement in providing its advice and will provide such advice in a regional context. 16. The Parties note that the Commission may delegate the section 30 functioµ for the Central Highlands RF A area to an appropriate official in a Victorian Agency. This delegation would be limited to the Central Highlands RF A area, and those operations whichaffect those aspects of the forest estate documented in the CRA. .,I 'f,: . ; i r ' ! ~ t ;!! '1' ; I .I ~1- 162 53 Table 1: Protection of National Estate values on fublic Land N1tlon1I E1tate Values Percentaee' ar the area. aii Public Land Exlatin1 and/or additional protection coataillin& tbe value whlcla Ila witalll meclaubms operatia1 wltbln and outllde the CAR reaerve system tile CAR raerve syatem Dedicated hformal Tlnal 1 3 Raeffe hlffe Relerve Old-gn>wtb 4 forest (8.1) 54% 30% 14% Code of Fomt Pncticc and Central Highlands Forest Management Plan Rqmsentative vegetation 68% 12'¼ 80% Code of Forest Practice and Central (D.1) Hig)tlanch Forut Management Plan R.cHctual EVCs and usociated 58% 17% Code of Forest Practice and Central flora (A.1) "" Highlands FOl'Clt Management Plan Vegetation Succc11ion (A.2) 89% 7% 96% Remote/natural areas ( B. I) 100% 0% 100% not applicable • an vatuca reserved Flora rcfugia (A. l) 61% 11% 72,i, Code of Forest Practice and Ccn1ral Hi1hlmda Fmest Management Plan F111111 rcfugia (A.2) 44% 25% 69% Code of Forest Practice and Central HiKblands Fore&t Management Plan Flora centres of endernism 65% 8% 73% Code of Forest Practice and Central (A.I) Highlands Forest Management Plan For 111TC1tbreatened endemic species: Floffl and Fauna Gvarantee Act 1988 Endang.nd Speclu Pro1«tio1t Act 1992 Key fauna habitat (A.2) 48" 16% 64% Code of Forest Practice and Central Highlandl Forest Management Plan Wildlife A.cl 19'/J For nrc/threa~d 1pccies: Flora a,wJ F- Gvaralll« A.et 1988 &uklnpred Species Proteclion Act 1992 Endemic fauna (A.1) 60% 9% 69% Code of Forest Prac:1fce and Central HighlandJ FllrCSt Mmwgcment Plan Wildlife A.et 1915 For rarc/lhreat=cd llpccics: Flora and Fflllllll Gvorruu« A.et 198/J &tdalttered Species Prot«tion A.et 1992 Rare/uncommon f,auna habitat 50% 16% 66% Flora and F11W1a Gvarantee A.et 1988 (B.1) Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 Code of Forest Practice and Central Hi&hlands Forcat Mmwgcment Plan Habitats ofT6rc or t!Ratened 49% 13% 62% F1ora and Fa1111a Guarantee Act 1988 fauna spp (B.1) End411gend Spectu Protection A.et 1992 Code ofForest PrM:tice and Central Highlands Forest Management Plan 1. The percentages shown in this table arc bued on modelled information mapp!:d at a scale of 1: ,100,000 derived durin& the Con1Rbenaive Regional Aaessment of the Central Hi&hlmds RegiQD, and are therefore only approximate. 2. Dcdicmd resm,es are reserves established tbrou&h legislation for comervation purposes, includin& national parb and flora and fauna-. · 3. The fiaurcs in this column an: bued upon broad an:as of the Special Proteclion Zone (SPZ) wi1hin State fortat 111 -1111 linear elements of the SPZ srcatcr than 100 mettes wide. The degree ofprotcctioo effectively confcrml by the linear component is dependent on the value under consideration. AddiliDDal areu prolected by prascriptfon may 1110 conlribut.c towards the protection ofNational Batat.c values. 4. Reference, 1ll the Code of Forest Practice in this table isa re~ to the Code ofForest Practlc:a forTimber Production. 163 54 Natloul Eltate Valae1 Pcrcntage of the area an PablicLand En1tingand/or additional protection cntainlng thevalue which lies within mec.banl1m1 apent1n1wltbln and Gllbide tbe CAR reservesystem the CAR.reserve system Dedicated l11farm1l T.c.J Reserve Reserve � Disjunct flora{A. I) 72% 6% 78% Code ot'ForestPractice and Central Highl1111dsForest Management Plan Forrare/threatened endemicspec:ics: Floraand FaMIHIGuartullle Act /988 EndangeredSD«ies ProtectionAct 1992 Flora apeciet1 at the limits of 46% 12% 51% Code of-PoratPractice and Centnil theirrange (A.I) HighlandsForest Management Plan For rare/threatened endemicspecies: FloraIWI FalUUI Gwmmt•..4ct 1988 ElldalllleredSpeclu Protection Ael 1992 Remnant vegetation (A.2) 52% 7% 59% Code ofFore,tPractice and Central Highlands FON:stMan�t Pl1111 · For rare/threatened species: Flora andFOS11111 GuaranteeA.ct 1988 · Endangered SpeciesProtection ..4ct 1992 For MelboumcWater Corporation land refer to Attachment 1 Fauna species richness(A.3) 24% 21% 45% Code of FOT111t Practiceand Central Highlands ForestManagement Plan Forrare/threatened specie,: Floroand FlllUl4 Guarani«Act 1988 : EndangeredSpecks Protecuo,c A.ct1992 Flora apeciesrichness (A.3) 22% 24% Code of ForestPractice and Centnll 0 46% Highlands ForestManagement Pim Fortare/threatened endemic apccie1: Flora and Fa1111aGllor1111t� Act 1988 EndangemlSpecies Protection Act 1992 Natural landscapes(B.1) 72 12 14 I. 164 r 55 - - . I National Estate Values I Percotagtoftbe area. on P11blic.Land I Existingand/or adclltlonal protecdon-1 containing the value which lies within mechanism, operatln11within and outside -the CARreserve system the CARnserve system Dedicated I Informal Total- Reserve Reserve r - - - - Reei-ve- - - Typelocalities & n:searcb sites 71% 5% 77% Type localitiesare to beidentified and ,_(Cl) - managedappropriately. Geocoli$ervalion values (A.I, NIA NIA NIA Major geological and geomorphological - A.2,A.3,B.1, C.1, C.2, D.l, features areconsidered robustto harvesting H.1)5 and roading. Identifiedlocalised sites of significance may be protected underthe CroW11 Land - (Raerves)-Act 1978. - - Historic values (A.3, A.4, B.2, NIA NIA NIA Aboriginaland TarraStrait I.slanders C.2, D.2,E.1, F.l, H.1)5 HerlltlpPratectiml Act J 984; Ardaeolagicaland A.borlgmalRellc.s Protection 1972A.Cl HeritageAct 199.S Code of ForestPractice and Centtal HighlandsForest Management Plam Indigenousheritage to be protected through implementation of clause 74 ofthe Agreement. ~ - - SociaJ·va]ues (G.1 )' NIA NIA NIA .A.boriginaland Torra Strt,Jt/slanders HeritageProtection ACl 1984: Archaeologicaland Aboriginai Relics Pro/4cttonA.ct J 972 ... HeritageA.et 199J ·. Codeof PoratPractice andCentral HighlandsFDrClt Manqement Pl an Indigenousheritage to beprotected through implementationof clause 74 ofthe Agreement. Aesthetic--values (E.l) 82% 8% - - 90% ._ Code of ForestPractice and Central .. HighlandsForest Mamagement Plan -- - NRE- Viaual Management System Cultural Landscapes (A3, A4, NIA NIA NIA Aborigin_flla,ul Tona Strait Islanders - D2)5 .. HeritageProtection AcJ 1984; .. Arc1,aeo/ogic4/t1nd Aboriginal Reltcs . , 1..: .. Protection Act197_2 '• , • -: .. HerltqeAct 1995 CodeofForcst Practice and Central HighlandsForest ManagementPlan Indigenousheritage to be protected through implementationof clause74 of the I I I A.gm:menL I 1- - - - S. Becauseof their particular chmicteristics, geoconscrvation, cultural,social andhistorical values werenot 1ubject to GIS· generated areal calculations in the Central Highlands. 165 56 ATTACHMENT4 MILESTONES Clause Action Timellne 44 Victoria to implement an on-going qualityassurance 2000 program Victoriato complete and publish regional prescriptions for December 1998 I: 45 I timber -oroduction i: 45 Victoriato complete and publish managementplans for all December 1998 National and State Parks 45 Victoria to implementthe Integrated Forest Planning System 2001 !, and the Statewide Forest Resource lnventorv 50 Victoria andthe Commonwealth to develop sustainability 2002 indicators 57 Victoria andthe Commonwealthto undertake and where 2002 relevant completethreatened species work as detailed in Attachment2 59 Victoriato develop programsfor pestplant and pest animal 2003 control 65 Victoria to publish a Central Highlands ForestManagement 30 Jwie 1998 Plan Victoriato complete a reviewin accordancewith the 1999 82 Comnetition PrinciulesAJn"eement 81 Victoria willreport on progressof the development of a long 2002 termtimber harvesting and water productionstrategy for the ThomsonReservoir catchment. 86 Victoria and theCommonwealth will develop a schedule to September1998 the Statewide dataagreement and lodge archival copies of data Att 1 Victoria to assess endangered,.vulnerable or rare EVCs on 2002 Melbourne Water Corooration Lands Att 1 Victoria to prepareRegional Vegetation Plans coveringthe 2001 Central Highlands which provide forthe protection of endangered, vulnerableor rareEVCs on orivate land Att 1 Victoriato publish a Technical Renorton Rainforest 1998 Att3, cl 5 Victoria and the Commonwealthto prepare Statewide December 1999 CulturalHeritage Guid elines The milestones in this Attachment should be read in conjwiction with the relevant clauses in theAgreement. .,' . I. 166 57 ATTACHMENTS PUBUCREPORTING AND CONSULTATIVEMECHANISMS Public reporting and consultative mechanisms relevant to the management of the CentralHighlands forests include: • Land Conservation Council and Environment ConservationCouncil studies; • preparation and amendment of the Forest Managemen� Plan, National and State Parkmanagement plans, and regional fireprotection plans; • activities associated with the implementation of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee A.ct 1988; • preparation and review of Codes of Practice; • preparationof Wood UtilisationPlans and Fuel Reduction BurningPlans; • technical,research andother reports on such topics as Sustainable Yield Reviews RegenerationPerformance Old-growth Surveys AnnualReports of theForest ManagementAreas Updatesof the Schedules of theFlora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988; • nomination, preparation and possible contraventions of recovery· plans and threat abatementplans prepared W1derthe Endangered SpeciesProtection Act 1992; • listing of places in theRegister of the NationalEstate under the Australian Heritage CommissionAct 1975 . .. 167 58 ATTACHMENT6 RESEARCH The major priority of future research in Victoria will be the development of appropriatemechanisms to monitor and continually improve the sustainability of forest management practices. Accordingly, Statewide research will continue onthe following major themes. • silviculture • flora and fatma conservation • soil and water conservation • fireecology • wood qualityin regrowthforests. Partiesalso recognisethe importance of continuing researchto address: o controlof feralpests o environmentalweed controlin priorityareas • population monitoringof high prioritythreatened flora and fauna species • the effectiveness of Ecological Vegetation Classes as surrogates of biodiversity • the effects of differing bufferand filterstrip widths on water qualityand streambiota • the development of ecologically based firemanagement regimes • the effect of tegrowth forests on water yields and their impacts on stream biota • the effectof introducedfish species on aquaticfauna • growth responses and ecological impacts of intensive silviculture in regrowth forests • stem defect and woodquality in regrowthforest • technologies and processes associated with the development of high value woodproducts. Research on the above themes will vary from region to region. Details of current research projects are included in theDepartment of Natural Resources andEnvironment web site. The Compendium of Victorian Forest Research (in prep) also will provide a bibliography of researchin progressas well as publishedand unpublishedworks. 168 59 ATTACHMENT7 MONTREAL PROCESS CRITERIA FOR THE CONSERVATION AND . SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF TEMPERATE AND BOREAL ,, FORESTS Criterion 1: Conservationof biological diversity • Ecosystemdiversity • Species diversity • Genetic diversity Criterion2: Maintenance of productive capacityof forest ecosystems Criterion3: Maintenance of ecosystemhealth and vitality Criterion4: Conservation of soil and waterresources Criterion 5: Maintenance of forestcontn'bution to global carboncycles Criterion6: Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic benefits to meet the needs of societies • Production and consumption • Recreation andtourism • Investmentin theforest sector • Cultural,social and spiritual needs and values • Employmentand communityneeds Criterion7: Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management 169 f ; !· . L / .. / ' f. · L:. � .. -~-- -·-······-··--� .•. :. _,/ ? I ;I! i, � r 01 ~I 'Q '! .\ E /' ! Ii C u I :1 r ~lj ~ ! I , ':f n I 9 C: r I 'J . ii -: r,:-:i: - a... I I j .,"' • "J j f t- ! z) t :c I ( ~ ! :I ...J tf 3 . d ij ! q $ C :JP I ~v' . I l i l t ! :i ~ id I i •" !! JI 1111 1,~1 ] j I u Ill II' ~ '"i) q Ji 1 ua: t It .5 !u h JI! ]IIIJllj11 J H H J I' 66i~o ~iZLJ!' ' OofQ Q ODD J t~ oloo H � -h.in1: :�..;�, L �-· . - ..... -- 170 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant VICFORESTS Respondent ANNEXURE 5 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management in Victoria (Summary and Guidance Documents) 2007 Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053 171 Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria A Victorian Government initiative 172 Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria - Summary Document Foreword Victoria’s State forests are an important part of our environment. They are the origin of many of our creeks and rivers, and are some of our favourite places to explore, learn and enjoy. State forests contain diverse and outstanding natural values. They contribute to scenic landscapes and provide habitat for a wide range of plants and animals. State forests are important contributors to regional employment and provide the Victorian community with a wide range of products, including timber, fi rewood and honey. The policy initiatives Growing Victoria Together (2005), Our Forests, Our Future (2002) and Our Environment, Our Future – Victoria’s Environmental Sustainability Framework (2005), combined with the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004 and the Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006), demonstrate and strengthen the Victorian Government’s commitment to regional communities and the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests. To meet the requirements of the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004, criteria and indicators for the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests have been developed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment with the assistance of key experts, Government partners, and in consultation with the community. The community and industry are entitled to scientifi cally robust and transparent information about Victoria’s State forests. Victoria’s sustainable forest management indicators will provide a framework for the forest-related monitoring and information reporting activities undertaken by the Department of Sustainability and Environment. The outcomes will complement and inform other sustainability initiatives currently operating at various scales within Victoria and Australia. Hon. John Thwaites Minister for Water, Environment and Climate Change Sustainability Criteria and Indicators Victoria’s criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management are consistent with the Montreal Process (1995), and complement the Framework of Regional (Sub-National) Level Criteria and Indicators of Sustainable Forest Management in Australia. The 45 indicators will inform Victorians on progress toward sustainable forest management. Performance against each indicator will be reported on a fi ve-yearly basis through Victoria’s State of the Forests Report. Further information can be found in the Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria – Guidance Document (2007). Criterion 1: Conservation of Biological Diversity Element 1.1 Ecosystem diversity Indicator 1.1a Area of forest by type and tenure Indicator 1.1b Area of forest type by growth stage Indicator 1.1c Area of forest type by growth stage distribution in protected zones Indicator 1.1d Fragmentation of native forest cover Element 1.2 Species diversity Indicator 1.2a The status of forest dependent species at risk of not maintaining viable breeding populations, as determined by legislation or scientifi c assessment 2 173 Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria - Summary Document Indicator 1.2b Area of habitat available for forest dependent indicator species Indicator 1.2c Representative indicator species from a range of habitats monitored at scales relevant to regional forest management Indicator 1.2d Degree of disturbance to native forest species caused by invasive species Element 1.3 Genetic diversity Indicator 1.3a The number of forest dependent species at risk from isolation that may lead to loss of genetic variation Indicator 1.3b Number of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for forest dependent species Criterion 2: Maintenance of Productive Capacity of Forest Ecosystems Indicator 2.1 Area and percentage of forest land and net area of forest available and suitable for timber production Indicator 2.2 Volume of wood by forest type in State forest that is available and suitable for timber production Indicator 2.3 Annual production of wood products from State forest compared to sustainable harvest levels Indicator 2.4 Annual production of non-wood forest products Indicator 2.5 Proportion of timber harvest area successfully regenerated by forest type Criterion 3: Maintenance of Ecosystem Health and Vitality Indicator 3.1 Scale and impact of agents and processes affecting forest health and vitality Indicator 3.2 Area and type of human-induced disturbance Criterion 4: Conservation and Maintenance of Soil and Water Resources Indicator 4.1 Area and percentage of forest by activity type systematically assessed for risk to soil attributes Indicator 4.2 Change in forested catchment water yield characteristics through time Indicator 4.3 Change in forested catchment river health characteristics through time Criterion 5: Maintenance of Forest Contribution to Global Carbon Cycles Indicator 5.1 Total forest ecosystem biomass and carbon pool by forest type, age class, and successional stages Indicator 5.2 Contribution of forest ecosystems to the global greenhouse gas balance Criterion 6: Maintenance and Enhancement of Long Term Multiple Socio-Economic Criterion 6: Benefi ts to Meet the Needs of Societies Element 6.1 Production and consumption Indicator 6.1a Value ($) of wood and wood products Indicator 6.1b Value ($) and yield of non-wood forest products Indicator 6.1c Value ($) of forest derived ecosystem services Indicator 6.1d Degree of reuse and recycling of wood products Element 6.2 Investment in the forest sector Indicator 6.2a Investment and expenditure in forest management Indicator 6.2b Investment in research and development, and education Indicator 6.2c Extension and use of new and improved technologies 1743 Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria - Summary Document Element 6.3 Recreation and tourism Indicator 6.3a Area and quality of forest actively utilised for recreation and tourism Indicator 6.3b Range and use of recreation and tourism opportunities that are available within forests Indicator 6.3c Number of visits per annum Element 6.4 Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural, social, and spiritual needs and values Indicator 6.4a Area of forest to which Indigenous people have access and rights that protect their cultural heritage and are recognised through formal and informal management regimes Indicator 6.4b Proportion of places of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural values in forests formally managed to protect those values Element 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator 6.5a Direct and indirect employment in the forest sector and forest sector employment as a proportion of total employment Indicator 6.5b Average wage rates and injury rates in major employment categories within the forest sector Indicator 6.5c Resilience of forest dependent communities to changing social and economic conditions Indicator 6.5d Resilience of forest dependent Indigenous communities to changing social and economic conditions Indicator 6.5e Area of forest available and accessible for Indigenous people to exercise their inherent rights to meet subsistence or individual and family cultural and spiritual needs Element 6.6 Indigenous participation Indicator 6.6a Extent to which the management framework includes the exercise of customary, custodial, traditional and native title rights as an essential component in achieving sustainable forest management Criterion 7: Legal, Institutional and Economic Framework for Forest Conservation Criterion 7: and Sustainable Management Indicator 7.1 Extent to which the legal framework (laws, regulations, guidelines) supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests Indicator 7.2 Extent to which the institutional framework supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests Indicator 7.3 Extent to which the economic framework supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests Indicator 7.4 Capacity to measure and monitor changes in the conservation and sustainable management of forests Indicator 7.5 Capacity to conduct and apply research and development aimed at improving forest management, including development of scientifi c understanding of forest ecosystem characteristics and functions This is the logo of the Montreal Process Working Group on Criteria and Indicators for the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Temperate and Boreal Forests. Victoria’s criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management are consistent with this process. Printed on 100% recycled paper. Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne, June 2007 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2007 This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Printed by CMA 2/47 Wangara Rd Cheltenham Vic 3192 ISBN 978-1-74152-823-7 (Internet) ISBN 978-1-74152-805-3 (Print) For more information contact the DSE Customer Service Centre 136 186 or visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/sfm Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without fl aw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss, or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. 4 175 Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria Guidance Document \ " A Victorian Government initiative 176.,. r~t(Hlc.l • Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria Guidance Document This is the logo of The Montréal Process Working Group on Criteria and Indicators for the Conservation and Sustainable Management of Temperate and Boreal Forests. Victoria’s criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management are consistent with this process. 177 Printed on 100% recycled paper. Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne, June 2007 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2007 This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Printed by: CMA Print 2/47 Wangara Road Cheltenham Vic 3192 Ph: +61 3 9586 3000 Fax: +61 3 9586 3050 www.cmaprint. com ISBN 978-1-74152-817-6 (Internet) ISBN 978-1-74152-811-4 (Print) For more information contact the DSE Customer Service Centre 136 186 or visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/sfm Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss, or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. 178 ii Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Foreword Victoria’s State forests are an important part of our environment. They are the origin of many of our creeks and rivers, and are some of our favourite places to explore, learn and enjoy. State forests contain diverse and outstanding natural values. They contribute to scenic landscapes and provide habitat for a wide range of plants and animals. State forests are important contributors to regional employment and provide the Victorian community with a wide range of products, including timber, firewood and honey. The policy initiatives Growing Victoria Together (2005), Our Forests, Our Future (2002) and Our Environment, Our Future – Victoria’s Environmental Sustainability Framework (2005), combined with the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004 and the Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006), demonstrate and strengthen the Victorian Government’s commitment to regional communities and the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests. To meet the requirements of the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004, criteria and indicators for the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests have been developed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment with the assistance of key experts, Government partners, and in consultation with the community. The community and industry are entitled to scientifically robust and transparent information about Victoria’s State forests. Victoria’s sustainable forest management indicators will provide a framework for the State forest monitoring and information reporting activities undertaken by the Department of Sustainability and Environment. The outcomes will complement and inform other sustainability initiatives currently operating at various scales within Victoria and Australia. Hon. John Thwaites Minister for Water, Environment and Climate Change 179 180 Contents Foreword 1 Introduction 5 Criterion 1: Conservation of biological diversity 9 1.1 Ecosystem diversity 10 1.1a Area of forest by type and tenure 10 1.1b Area of forest type by growth stage 11 1.1c Area of forest type by growth stage distribution in protected zones 12 1.1d Fragmentation of native forest cover 13 1.2 Species diversity 14 1.2a The status of forest dependent species at risk of not maintaining viable breeding populations, as determined by legislation or scientific assessment 14 1.2b Area of habitat available for forest dependent indicator species 15 1.2c Representative indicator species from a range of habitats monitored at scales relevant to regional forest management 16 1.2d Degree of disturbance to native forest species caused by invasive species 17 1.3 Genetic diversity 18 1.3a The number of forest dependent species at risk from isolation that may lead to loss of genetic variation 18 1.3b Number of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for forest dependent species 19 Criterion 2: Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystems 21 2.1 Area and percentage of forest and net area of forest available and suitable for timber production 22 2.2 Volume of wood by forest type in State forest that is available and suitable for timber production 23 2.3 Annual production of wood products from State forest compared to sustainable harvest levels 24 2.4 Annual production of non-wood forest products 25 2.5 Proportion of timber harvest area successfully regenerated by forest type 26 Criterion 3: Maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality 27 3.1 Scale and impact of agents and processes affecting forest health and vitality 28 3.2 Area and type of human-induced disturbance 30 Criterion 4: Conservation and maintenance of soil and water resources 31 4.1 Area and percentage of forest by activity type systematically assessed for risk to soil attributes 32 4.2 Change in forested catchment water yield characteristics through time 33 4.3 Change in forested catchment river health characteristics through time 34 Criterion 5: Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles 37 5.1 Total forest ecosystem biomass and carbon pool by forest type, age class and successional stages 38 5.2 Contribution of forest ecosystems to the global greenhouse gas balance 39 Criterion 6: Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic benefits to meet the needs of societies 41 6.1 Production and consumption 42 6.1a Value ($) of wood and wood products 42 6.1b Value ($) and yield of non-wood forest products 44 6.1c Value ($) of forest derived ecosystem services 45 6.1d Degree of reuse and recycling of wood products 46 181 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document 6.2 Investment in the forest sector 47 6.2a Investment and expenditure in forest management 47 6.2b Investment in research and development, and education 48 6.2c Extension and use of new and improved technologies 49 6.3 Recreation and Tourism 50 6.3a Area and quality of forest actively utilised for recreation and tourism 50 6.3b Range and use of recreation and tourism opportunities that are available within forests 51 6.3c Number of visits per annum 52 6.4 Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural, social, and spiritual needs and values 53 6.4a Area of forest to which Indigenous people have access and rights that protect their cultural heritage and are recognised through formal and informal management regimes 53 6.4b Proportion of places of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural values in forests formally managed to protect those values 55 6.5 Employment and community needs 57 6.5a Direct and indirect employment in the forest sector and forest sector employment as a proportion of total employment 57 6.5b Average wage rates and injury rates in major employment categories within the forest sector 58 6.5c Resilience of forest dependent communities to changing social and economic conditions 59 6.5d Resilience of forest dependent Indigenous communities to changing social and economic conditions 60 6.5e Area of forest available and accessible for Indigenous people to exercise their inherent rights to meet subsistence or individual and family cultural and spiritual needs 61 6.6 Indigenous participation 62 6.6a Extent to which the management framework includes the exercise of customary, custodial, traditional and native title rights as an essential component in achieving sustainable forest management 62 Criterion 7: Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management 63 7.1 Extent to which the legal framework (laws, regulations, guidelines) supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests 64 7.2 Extent to which the institutional framework supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests 66 7.3 Extent to which the economic framework supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests 68 7.4 Capacity to measure and monitor changes in the conservation and sustainable management of forests 69 7.5 Capacity to conduct and apply research and development aimed at improving forest management, including development of scientific understanding of forest ecosystem characteristics and functions 70 Bibliography 71 Glossary 73 Appendix 1: Summary of indicators 79 182 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Introduction The Victorian Government is committed to being a world leader in environmental sustainability. Victoria’s forests are of major importance at a local, regional, State, national and international level. They hold many values, benefits and products for the community. They provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals, and play a vital role in conserving habitat and biodiversity values. Forests also make an important contribution to Victoria’s economy, providing wood and other forest products, employment for local communities, regional development, recreation and tourism. The social, cultural, Indigenous, educational and aesthetic values associated with Victoria’s forests are highly prized in the community and more people visit our State forests for recreation and amenity than for any other purpose. Victorians expect that forest ecosystems will be protected for current and future generations to enjoy, while continuing to satisfy the need for products derived from sustainably managed forests. The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has primary responsibility for the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests. This includes the conservation of flora and fauna, protection of water catchments and water quality, the provision of timber and other forest products on a sustainable basis, the protection of landscape, archaeological and historic values, and the provision of recreational and educational opportunities. Sustainable Forest Management At the 1992 United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Australia endorsed the Global Statement of Principles on Forests. Based on this endorsement, the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments developed a strategy for the ecologically sustainable management of Australia’s forests. This strategy was embodied in the National Forest Policy Statement, signed by all participating governments in 1992, with the exception of Tasmania, which became a signatory in 1995. After the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development, Canada convened the International Seminar of Experts on the Sustainable Development of Boreal and Temperate Forests in 1993. This led to the signing of the Santiago Declaration in 1995, which included a criteria and indicator framework – known as the Montreal Process criteria and indicators. Australia is one of 12 member countries in the Montreal Process, which spans five continents and accounts for 60 percent of the world’s forests. Similar frameworks have been developed for other forests of the world (for example the Helsinki Process for the forests of Europe (1993) and the International Tropical Timber Organisation Process (1992) for the world’s tropical forests). The Montreal Process criteria and indicators are designed to reflect the ecological, economic and social components of sustainable forest management. They provide a common understanding of what is meant by sustainable forest management. They also provide a common framework for describing, assessing and evaluating progress towards sustainable forest management at the national level. The Montreal Process criteria are: 1. Conservation of biological diversity; 2. Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystems; 3. Maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality; 4. Conservation and maintenance of soil and water resources; 5. Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles; 6. Maintenance and enhancement of long-term multiple socio-economic benefits to meet the needs of societies; and 7. legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management. Within these criteria, regional indicators have been developed for use in Australia under the Framework of Regional (Sub-National) Level Criteria and Indicators of Sustainable Forest Management in Australia (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998). These form the basis for measuring and reporting on sustainable forest management in Australia. 183 Introduction Victoria’s Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management To demonstrate that Victoria is committed to sustainable forest management, it is important for our public reporting processes to reflect the work done by the Montreal Process (1995). Victoria’s criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management are consistent with the Montreal Process. The Victorian criteria and indicators are also well aligned with Australia’s regional indicators of sustainable forest management (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998) and will meet Victoria’s national reporting obligations. Under the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004, DSE has the responsibility to collate information against each of the Victorian indicators. This is done through Victoria’s State of the Forests Report – a five-yearly report to the Minister for Water, Environment and Climate Change from the Secretary, DSE. VicForests is also required to provide information on relevant indicators to support this reporting process. Victoria’s criteria and indicators will be used for a range of management and reporting processes and will complement other sustainability initiatives currently operating at various scales within Victoria and Australia. For example, the criteria and indicators provide a means to monitor and report on progress towards the objectives set out in the Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006). Specifically, it is anticipated that monitoring and reporting against the criteria and indicators will: • Improve information about the current state of publicly owned native forests and trends over time; • Define sustainable forest management on public land in the Victorian context; • Allow credible performance reporting to the community; • Facilitate inter/intra-agency communication and data exchange; • Improve stakeholder/community/Indigenous consultation and participation in sustainable forest management; • Draw on DSE’s extensive data resources and identify where other relevant data may exist; • Influence research directions to ensure knowledge gaps are identified and addressed; • Highlight the forest sector’s contribution to sustainable development in Victoria; and • Improve the efficacy of management systems, policies and procedures (including elements of theC ode of Practice for Timber Production 2007). Process for developing Victoria’s Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management The development of Victoria’s criteria and indicators has included government, stakeholder and community consultation (see Figure 1), demonstrating the Victorian Government’s commitment to greater community engagement in forest management. Victoria’s criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management have been subjected to a process of expert review through a series of Technical Reference Group workshops held in November 2005. The Technical Reference Group was comprised of DSE and external people with high-level expertise in at least one of the seven Montreal Process criteria subject areas. The Technical Reference Group workshops identified a number of issues associated with the proposed indicators. These issues were addressed, where possible, and new indicators subsequently included. The draft criteria and indicators were then distributed across Government for comment and released for statewide consultation between July and September 2006. Further opportunity for comment by government bodies was also provided during this consultation period. Public information sessions were held at Ballarat, Bairnsdale, Benalla, Bendigo and Melbourne. These sessions aimed to provide interested stakeholders and members of the public with an understanding of how the indicators were developed and how they would be used in forest management. The sessions also provided an opportunity for questions and concerns to be raised. Forty written submissions were subsequently received from interested parties. All feedback was addressed, where feasible. 184 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document It is expected that the criteria and indicators will be periodically reviewed to ensure the continued supply of accurate and relevant information for sustainable forest management. Figure 1: Process for developing the Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) in Victoria Draft list of SFM Indicators in Victoria September 2005 October-November 2005 Technical Reference Group (TRG) Review TRG Workshop: November 2005 Breakout Groups 1. Biological Diversity TRG Workshop 2. Forest Productivity 3. Forest Health and Vitality 4. Soil and Water 5. Global Carbon Cycles 6. Socio-economic Benefits 7. Legal and Institutional Frameworks Indicators Revised and Draft Released Internally January - July 2006 Consultation Process July-September 2006 Special Interest Government Public Feedback Reviewed and Indicators Revised October 2006 Final Review of SFM Indicators November 2006 Final List of Indicators Gazetted by Minister June 2007 Final SFM Indicators for Victoria Published June 2007 Monitoring and Reporting Ongoing Structure of Victoria’s Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management Forty-five indicators are proposed under the seven broad criteria of the Montreal Process andFramework of Regional (Sub-National) Level Criteria and Indicators of Sustainable Forest Management in Australia (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998). The reporting unit for each criteria and indicator is State forest. While the criteria and indicators can be applied to all forest land tenures in Victoria, the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004 only requires DSE to monitor and report on the indicators in the context of Victoria’s State forests. Nevertheless, where data is available, a broader ‘all forests, all tenure’ approach to reporting will be adopted. It is recognised that no single criteria or indicator is an indication of sustainability, therefore, each must be considered in the context of other criteria and indicators. Associated with the indicators are a number of potential sub-indicator reporting areas. These potential sub-indicators are practical, yet aspirational, and will rely on data availability at the time of reporting. Reporting on these potential sub-indicators is not considered compulsory, however, the extent to which DSE can monitor and report on these areas needs to be considered in the evaluation of sustainable forest management and will play an important role in demonstrating continual improvement over time. 185 Introduction To facilitate a statewide approach to reporting, the following three categories have been applied to each indicator (see Appendix 1): Category A: Indicators that can be reported against immediately for many areas of Victoria’s A forest. In these cases, information is already available and/or being collected; Category B: Indicators that can be measured for some areas of forest, but where there remains a B methodological or resourcing issue; and Category C: Indicators where significant research and development is required to assess if there is C a practical, sensitive and cost-effective means of implementation. These categories will be used to determine the availability and completeness of the data, and to set information priorities. The Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management in Victoria is structured as follows: Montreal Process Criterion Indicator name and category Potential sub-indicator reporting areas • Rationale – why the indicator is used and what information it provides; • Issues – outlines specific issues that may affect DSE’s ability to report accurately on the indicator; • Possible data sources – lists the government and non-government agencies/groups that may provide data related to the indicator; • Potential methods – lists the various methods that can be used to obtain and assess the data related to the indicator; and • Interpretation – outlines the factors that need to be considered when interpreting the data and assessing the indicator. 186 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Criterion 1 Conservation of biological diversity “Biodiversity refers to the different plants, animals, micro-organisms, their genes and the ecosystems they form. The conservation of biodiversity is a key element of ecologically sustainable development. Managing native forests to protect biodiversity and maintain ecosystem processes via the conservation of habitats and ecosystems is essential to the ongoing survival of all species.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 187 Criterion 1 Conservation1 of biological diversity Element: 1.1 Ecosystem diversity Indicator: 1.1a Area of forest by type and tenure A Potential i) Percentage of tree species (Ecological Vegetation Class and sub-indicator species group) by age class and site quality reporting areas Rationale Indicator: Measures the current level of forest cover by broad forest type and demonstrates whether/how the forested area is changing over time. This knowledge is fundamental for the effective management of our forests. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: This sub-indicator aims to incorporate the concept of Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative with respect to tree species. Issues • Ecological Vegetation Class is not synonymous with forest type. Consequently, vegetation classification could be reported as either Ecological Vegetation Class or forest type, or both; • The Statewide Forest Resource Inventory program considers site quality by measuring the height of forests at 20 years and their growth potential. Sites < 20 years at the time of the inventory have not been assessed; and • In some Ecological Vegetation Classes the understorey age and composition may differ from that of the overstorey. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment. Potential methods • Initially this indicator should use Statewide Forest Resource Inventory databases, however, the use of the Ecological Vegetation Class benchmarking process needs to be considered; and • National Forest Inventory classes may also be used, see National Forest Inventory (2003). Interpretation This information will allow the identification of changes in vegetation cover and condition over time. The data should be reviewed with respect to forest management objectives including seral stage distributions, forest condition and areas in reserve. 188 10 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 1.1 Ecosystem diversity Indicator: 1.1b Area of forest type by growth stage B i) Area of old growth forest, by type, distributed across the Forest Management Area Potential ii) Area and percentage of old growth harvested annually sub-indicator iii) Area and percentage of old growth impacted by natural processes annually reporting areas (e.g. wildfire, insect attack) iv) Area recruited for future old growth (areas of regrowth protected from anthropogenic disturbances – age distribution) Rationale Indicator: Within any forest ecosystem or forest type, ecological processes and the species associated with those processes are related to vegetation structure (age and strata), successional stages (varies between species) and their configuration in the landscape. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to incorporate issues related to the representativeness and future availability of old growth forest. Issues • In some Ecological Vegetation Classes the understorey age and composition may differ from that of the overstorey. This can be difficult to analyse and could cause difficulties in reporting. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment. Potential methods • Standard forest measurement procedures, including aerial photograph interpretation, inventory data, disturbance history, logging history and fire maps can be used for determining growth stage. Interpretation This information will identify changes in growth stages within forest types related to forest management objectives, and by tenure. Implications for flora and fauna that favour particular growth stages should be discussed. 189 11 Criterion 1 Conservation1 of biological diversity Element: 1.1 Ecosystem diversity Indicator: 1.1c Area of forest type by growth stage distribution in protected zones A i) Area of forest, by type and age class in Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative (CAR) reserve areas Potential ii) Range of sizes and average size of CAR reserve areas for each forest type iii) Number of outstanding or unique biological, zoological, geological, or sub-indicator paleontological features in protected areas reporting areas iv) Area of forest available for timber harvesting in relation to area of forest in CAR reserve areas v) Area of forest types with significantly reduced area Rationale Indicator: Strategies for nature conservation should include a system of reserves that are Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to incorporate issues related to representativeness, connectivity and habitat availability. Issues • Some areas of forest still require measurement. This includes combinations of protected areas, mature forest and regrowth; • The effects of wildfire on forest age class and structure needs to be considered and incorporated; • Measurement unit types and regions may vary (for example Catchment Management Area, Forest Management Area and Bioregions); and • In some Ecological Vegetation Classes the understorey age may differ from the overstorey. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment. Potential methods • Fire severity mapping case studies. Interpretation Generally, as the area of protected forest increases the indicator will show a corresponding rise in the area of forest type by growth stage distribution in protected zones, thereby increasing representativeness. However, it may also be possible for representativeness to increase, even when the area protected remains unchanged, because of reductions in the total forest estate. 190 12 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 1.1 Ecosystem diversity Indicator: 1.1d Fragmentation of native forest cover B Potential i) Connectivity between areas with similar habitat types sub-indicator ii) Area of forest permanently converted to non-forest reporting areas Rationale Indicator: Provides information on the state of forests impacted by the loss of forest cover and determines the spatial configuration of that loss within a region. Because large stretches of continuous forest are often necessary for maintaining viable populations of species, fragmentation (for example from roads, pipelines) can cause populations (especially small populations) to become vulnerable, and can reduce gene pools through loss of biodiversity. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to quantify habitat fragmentation at the landscape level. Issues • There needs to be a focus on the representation of growth stages in each Ecological Vegetation Class; • Fragmentation already exists in some Ecological Vegetation Classes – change through time is important; • Pest and wildfire (fire severity) effects need to be considered with respect to this indicator; and • Fragmentation is often an issue where a forest area adjoins private property, or is divided by private property across a forest type. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; and • Birds Australia Atlas. Potential methods • FragStats: A computer software program designed to compute a wide variety of landscape metrics for categorical map patterns, and to explore some issues regarding the use of landscape metrics to describe landscape structure; • For measuring Connectivity Indices see Hanski (1999); and • For methods to assess fragmentation of parks see University of Ballarat (1998). Interpretation Broadly speaking, less fragmentation of forest by other land uses is considered to be more favourable to the conservation of biodiversity. Assessment of this indicator should be interpreted within the context of natural fragmentation patterns. It should also incorporate both temporary and permanent fragmentation in the landscape and consider their effects over time. 191 13 Criterion 1 Conservation1 of biological diversity Element: 1.2 Species diversity Indicator: 1.2a The status of forest dependent species at risk of not maintaining viable breeding populations, as determined by A legislation or scientific assessment i) Percentage of high priority actions at high priority locations successfully implemented annually for threatened species and communities Potential ii) Percentage of high priority threatened species populations with positive trends for a) population, b) habitat and c) risk sub-indicator iii) Percentage of high priority occurrences of threatened communities with reporting areas positive trends for a) extent and condition, b) physical environment and c) risk iv) Percentage change in the number of forest dependent species classified as vulnerable, threatened or endangered Rationale Indicator: Describes the status of known threatened species in Victoria’s forests and provides information to improve their conservation status and formal designation. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide a measure of change in both the status of species at risk and the processes threatening their survival. Issues • The mobility of faunal species requires measurement and monitoring across land tenures; • The capacity of the system to absorb change requires consideration when reporting on this indicator; and • There is a time lag between the assessment of species at risk and implementation of appropriate interventions. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Victoria’s Catchment Management Authorities; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); and • Birds Australia Atlas. Potential methods • For ecological risk assessment and defining attributes required to meet the needs of species see Lambeck (1997) and Carey et al. (2004); • Actions for Biodiversity Conservation – measuring and reporting on the conservation of species through the three categories of population size, habitat extent and condition, and future risk; and • Reporting on the implementation of activities contained in Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988: Action Statements. Interpretation A decline in the total number of species at risk is desirable. It will also be important to note changes between the categories over time and any improvements in the number of species in lower risk categories. 192 14 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 1.2 Species diversity Indicator: 1.2b Area of habitat available for forest dependent indicator species B i) Areas of high, medium and low habitat (quality) for indicator species • Percentage change in area of feeding habitat over time • Percentage change in area of breeding habitat over time Potential • Percentage change in sites suitable for germination/regeneration ii) Distribution of selected habitat elements by catchment over time sub-indicator • Percentage change in stems by large live tree diameter class reporting areas • Percentage of total area retained in Habitat Tree Patches • Dead and dying trees: volume (m3, ha) of dead potential • Stags per hectare • Volume (m3, ha) of coarse woody debris (logs) by size class and catchment Rationale Indicator: Provides information on the amount of habitat available for indicator species. While the existence of habitat does not necessarily indicate the presence of a particular species, habitat information can inform decision making for forest management and protection. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide a measure of habitat quality through time. They also consider the life- cycle requirements of certain species. Issues • Thresholds for habitat requirements need to be set for the indicator species being measured; • The species richness of an area needs to be considered with respect to the amount of habitat available; • The process of identifying species requirements needs to incorporate a risk assessment approach; and • There is uncertainty about the methodology for the selection and monitoring of indicator species. Furthermore, this selection is often dependent on location and management objectives. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); and • Parks Victoria. Potential methods • For adaptive management see Holling (1978), Parma et al. (1998), Shea et al. (2002) and Nitschke et al. (2007); • For selection and ongoing monitoring of appropriate indicator species see Lambeck (1997), Lindenmayer et al. (2000), and Kavanagh et al. (2004); • High level approaches outlined in Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management Framework for Action; • Improved application of remote sensing technology; and • Actions for Biodiversity Conservation – database queries on habitat requirements and availability for a given species. Interpretation The availability of suitable habitat is fundamental to the survival of species and the maintenance of species diversity. It is generally accepted that species diversity will increase with habitat availability, however, this is also dependent on factors such as habitat connectivity, disease, disturbance, and competition and predation from other species. 193 15 Criterion 1 Conservation1 of biological diversity Element: 1.2 Species diversity Indicator: 1.2c Representative indicator species from a range of habitats monitored at scales relevant to regional forest B management i) Population levels of selected forest dependent species Potential ii) Number of forest dependent species that occupy a small portion of their sub-indicator former range reporting areas iii) Percentage of original range occupied by selected rare, threatened, endangered, or indicator species Rationale Indicator: Provides a broad measure of the conservation status of representative indicator species across a range of forest habitats. The intention is to provide an early warning of changes in conditions that may impact negatively on biodiversity. This indicator reflects elements of ecosystem diversity. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to further quantify the extent of species monitoring conducted in Victoria’s State forests. Issues • There is uncertainty regarding satisfactory sampling methods to accurately estimate species distributions across different types of land tenure; • In order to understand changes, results for individual species need to be assessed relative to groups of species with similar life histories; • Identifying the former ranges of species may be difficult and, in some cases, not possible; • The monitoring framework must have the capacity to include new indicator species; • Species migration in response to habitat maturation needs to be determined; • Biodiversity Action Plans are influenced by land tenure, therefore different regulations apply and management strategies may vary; and • There is uncertainty about the methodology for the selection and monitoring of indicator species. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); and • Birds Australia Atlas. Potential methods • Actions for Biodiversity Conservation – database queries on habitat availability and population attributes for given species; • Aspects of monitoring program design and ecological modelling for sustainable forest management are discussed in relevant scientific literature includingL indenmayer (1999), Lindenmayer et al. (2000), Kavanagh et al. (2004), Loyn (2004) and Wintle et al. (2005); • For survey design for monitoring the abundance of arboreal marsupials see Lindenmayer et al. (2003); and • For selection and ongoing monitoring of appropriate indicator species see Lambeck (1997), Lindenmayer et al. (2000) and Kavanagh et al. (2004). Interpretation Interpretation of the potential consequences of changes in a species population size should be carried out by the appropriate scientific authority. Population numbers fluctuate up and down for many reasons, including natural cycles and stochastic variation. Species whose ranges are decreasing over time, particularly for those species at risk, indicate the need to implement or revise conservation strategies. Likewise, changes in the range of species of economic importance may indicate reduced or increased economic opportunities. 194 16 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 1.2 Species diversity Indicator: 1.2d Degree of disturbance to native forest species caused by invasive species B Potential i) Number of invasive, exotic forest-associated species ii) Location and dispersal of introduced species sub-indicator iii) Changes in abundance and distribution of native species known to be reporting areas: susceptible to such disturbance Rationale Indicator: Invasive species can affect ecological processes in forests. Information on the degree of disturbance caused by invasive species can be used to inform rehabilitation and pest control programs. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to further quantify the characteristics of invasive species present in Victoria’s State forests. Issues • Monitoring results may only provide an indication for future management requirements, rather than show impacts on biodiversity values; • Priority listing of pest plant and animals may determine which invasive species are reported; • Pest plant and animals do not include pathogens and insects, however, these are monitored through other programs; • Focal species monitoring may not be adequate to address the full extent of pest plant and animal impacts; • Some invasive species may exist outside their normal range; • The propensity for insect attacks on native vegetation may be affected by climate change; and • Catchment Management Authority weed priorities may not include high threat weeds to forest and woodland ecosystems. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability Environment; • Parks Victoria; and • Department of Primary Industries. Potential methods • Glenelg Ark and Southern Ark programs – monitoring of fox numbers and distribution; • Parks Victoria indicators for invasive species; and • Quantitative monitoring to determine pest plant and animal impacts on biodiversity. Interpretation Increases in the number of invasive species will usually be detrimental. However, knowledge of the number of invasive species will only provide limited assistance to management decision-making. Also see Indicator 3.1. 195 17 Criterion 1 Conservation1 of biological diversity Element: 1.3 Genetic diversity 1.3a The number of forest dependent species at risk Indicator: from isolation that may lead to loss of genetic variation C Potential i) The number of seed-lot provenances used in regeneration, reforestation, sub-indicator roading and stabilisation works that meet Code requirements reporting areas Rationale Indicator: Provides a measure of the number of species identified as at risk of decreased genetic variation that may prevent long term survival and adaptation. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: This sub-indicator provides an indication of the genetic diversity of trees used for regeneration and reforestation in Victoria. Issues • The effect of fragmentation in reducing genetic variation in non-commercial native flora and fauna species needs to be considered. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Cooperative Research Centre for Forestry; and • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation. Potential methods • Predictive modelling of genetic variation. Interpretation Increases in the mean or median value of genetic diversity are generally desirable. Native flora and fauna species may suffer reduced genetic variation if their populations are greatly reduced or fragmented. 196 18 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 1.3 Genetic diversity Indicator: 1.3b Number of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for forest dependent species C Potential i) Change in the area of gene protection forests sub-indicator ii) Changes in genetic diversity and structure within populations, and gene flow, reporting areas for selected species Rationale Indicator: Sustainable forest management requires a commitment by forest agencies to conserve locally or regionally adapted populations of native species using a combination of in situ and ex situ approaches. In situ (on site) conservation of genetic diversity is provided by parks and other protected areas, genetic and ecological conservation areas, reserved stands and areas of State forest that comply with the Code of Practice for Timber Production 2007. Ex situ (off-site) conservation measures include seed banks, seed orchards and clonal archives. This indicator describes the extent of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for native species. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide more specific information relating to the genetic diversity of forest dependent species. Issues • Ex situ studies are difficult; • Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial ResearchO rganisation seed banks are not guaranteed for long term storage; and • Similar issues can apply to many flora and fauna species that are rarely investigated. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; and • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne). Potential methods • Monitoring the transfer of seeds in the landscape. Interpretation The discussion should include a description of the major genetic conservation programs in Victoria’s forests. 197 19 198 20 Criterion 2 Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystems “The Victorian Government, through Our Forests, Our Future, has recognised that the use of Victoria’s State forests must be at a level that can be sustained without impairing the ability of the forest to regenerate and to continue to provide employment, products and services for future generations.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 199 Criterion 2 Maintenance2 of productive capacity of forest ecosystems Indicator: 2.1 Area and percentage of forest and net area of forest available and suitable for timber production A i) Additions and deletions of forest area, by cause and by forest type Potential ii) Forest area (ha) reserved by special management regime (e.g. for conservation of powerful owls, baw baw frog or water quality) sub-indicator iii) Loss of forest area to roads and other developments (e.g. quarries) reporting areas iv) Area (ha) removed due to site being inoperable or uneconomical (e.g. due to slope and other Code exclusions) Rationale Indicator: Reflects the area available for timber harvesting over time. This indicator provides important information on forest zoning and the capacity of forests to meet society’s demand for wood products. Sub-indicators: These sub-indicators aim to provide information on forest zoning and how much of the forested area has been affected by land use changes. Issues • Data on private native forest and plantations will be required for Victoria’s State of the Forests Report; and • Plantation resources must be represented to address sustainability concerns if there is a reduced area of native forest available for timber production. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • VicForests; and • Department of Primary Industries. Potential methods • This indicator is best represented in a table that shows gross and net area of forest available and suitable for timber producction, and change over time; • use Statewide Forest Resource Inventory definition of ‘forest land’; and • Soil surveys, radiometric surveys and terrain models. Interpretation An increase or decline in area may affect productive capacity. Care must be taken in the interpretation of this indicator to distinguish between a number of factors that can change the value of the indicator, for example, reclassification of land tenure or changes in forest area. 200 22 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Indicator: 2.2 Volume of wood by forest type in State forest that is available and suitable for timber production A Potential i) Total volume of wood and area of non-merchantable forest sub-indicator ii) Total volume of wood and area of merchantable forest reporting areas iii) Area (ha) of available forest that is managed intensively Rationale Indicator: The total volume of wood available and suitable for timber production is a basic indicator of forest sustainability in terms of the area potentially available for timber harvest. Results can be compared to the volume harvested each year, with increases or decreases in the total stock tracked over time. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide quantitative data to determine changes in forest characteristics such as growth, age, species and volume. Issues • The type of forest classification used is a key consideration; • The indicator needs to be flexible around the definition of ‘merchantability’; • The Statewide Forest Resource Inventory has mapped all State forest. However, only stands with an average height of greater than 28 metres have been field validated; • Data on non-merchantable volume and area is limited; and • Information on non-merchantable forest types may be limited. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; and • VicForests. Potential methods • A variety of field inventory techniques including post-harvesting assessment. Interpretation Maintenance of, or an increase in, the growing stock is considered desirable. Sharp declines in the growing stock need to be interpreted in relation to the amount lost to natural and anthropogenic disturbances to understand why the decline has occurred. Consistent declines over time may indicate that the current harvest regime is not sustainable. This may be due to a range of reasons including changes in area designation from timber production to other purposes. However, it is also important to understand that maximising timber productivity may compromise the maintenance of ecosystem condition. Both desired levels of productivity and the broader ecosystem condition are important considerations with respect to timber production. 201 23 Criterion 2 Maintenance2 of productive capacity of forest ecosystems Indicator: 2.3 Annual production of wood products from State forest CATEGORY compared to sustainable harvest levels AA i) Annual volume (cubic metres) harvested from State forest by broad forest type • Sawlogs/pulpwood ii) Area harvested compared to sustainable harvest level (ha) by broad forest type • Sawlogs/pulpwood Potential iii) Actual annual harvest of minor wood products compared to sustainable sub-indicator harvest level reporting areas • Firewood • other (e.g. sleepers, stakes and props, burls, etc.) iv) Area and volume by silvicultural treatment type (clearfell, thinning, salvage, selective) v) Volume of wood removed by ecological processes Rationale Indicator: Measures the actual harvest to meet society’s demand for wood products, against the sustainable level of production. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators specify the total volumes and sustainable yields by major wood product group. Issues • loss of timber resulting from illegal removal (for example firewood) needs to be considered; • Mean Annual Increment is based on sawlog and total merchantable volumes, and does not include firewood; • Case studies may be required to respond to some sub-indicator reporting areas; and • The STANDSIM model was developed specifically for the growth and yield prediction of Ash and Silvertop regrowth. A growth model (simulator) has not been developed for the growth and yield prediction of mixed species and/or uneven-aged regrowth forests. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; and • VicForests. Potential methods • use of growth functions; • Where appropriate, area statements can be used to report on this indicator because such statements outline how timber is allocated to VicForests under the Timber Allocation Order; and • STANDSIM model for predicting growth and yield for the ash-type forests in Victoria. Interpretation This indicator allows a comparison between the determined harvest levels and sustainable levels, and complements growing stock information (see Indicator 2.1). 202 24 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Indicator: 2.4 Annual production of non-wood forest products A i) Carrying capacity of the system for economically important species/products • Records of assessment of the productive capacity for existing non-wood products • Sample plots and records of regrowth ii) Non-wood products produced annually from State forests • Sand/gravel • Salt • Eucalyptus oil Potential • Tea-tree/broom bush sub-indicator • Tree ferns reporting areas • Xanthorrhoea fronds • Bee sites • Grazing licences • Water • Seed • Mining and prospecting • Game (e.g. deer, duck) • Wildflower licences • Agistment licences Rationale Indicator: Provides an indication of the production of non-wood forest products and services supplied annually. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide more detail on the management of non-wood forest products in Victoria’s State forests. Issues • Forest age class, forest type and fire history will affect the carrying capacity and sustainable level of many minor forest products (for example honey production); • It is difficult to determine sustainable supply levels for many minor forest products; and • Illegal removal of non-wood forest products needs to be considered. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Records of use for licensed activities; • Consult with Indigenous communities in relation to traditional uses and level of removal to ascertain sustainable levels; and • The ‘quantity’ of grazing should be recorded by size of area and location, by forest type, Ecological Vegetation Class, and the number of cattle per hectare. Interpretation Compare harvest trends to known sustainable levels. See also Indicators 4.1, 4.2 and 6.1c. 203 25 Criterion 2 Maintenance2 of productive capacity of forest ecosystems Indicator: 2.5 Proportion of timber harvest area successfully regenerated by forest type A i) Area not meeting stocking standards Potential • First attempt stocking survey results over time sub-indicator • Area retreated reporting areas • Area regenerated where stocking surveys are overdue • Area and percentage of area meeting stocking standards Rationale Indicator: To maintain the productive capacity of the forest ecosystem, all forest areas where timber harvesting has been undertaken need to be regenerated. This indicator assesses the effectiveness of regeneration in timber harvest areas. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: This sub-indicator aims to provide specific information regarding the area of the forest estate not meeting stocking standards and efforts to ensure adequate stocking. Issues • There will be a time lag in the area regenerated versus the area harvested. Successful regeneration usually indicates that the stand is fully stocked. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Remote sensing – Quickbird and Multispectral imagery; and • Stocking and regeneration surveys. Interpretation This indicator will assess the proportion of the timber harvest area that has been successfully regenerated. ‘Successfully regenerated’ is in accordance with the Code of Practice for Timber Production 2007. 204 26 Criterion 3 Maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality “A range of natural and human induced disturbances, such as fire, pest plants and animals, disease, pollution and drought can impact on the health and vitality of forest ecosystems. These disturbances need to be identified, monitored and managed to ensure that the natural assets of State forests are restored and maintained.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 205 Criterion 3 Maintenance3 of ecosystem health and vitality Indicator: 3.1 Scale and impact of agents and processes affecting CATEGORY forest health and vitality BA i) Area of forest damage, by age class and forest type, caused by extreme weather including wind, rainfall, snow, drought and frost ii) Area of State forest burnt, by forest type and age class annually • Planned/Unplanned • Source of ignition (e.g. lightning strikes, deliberate) iii) Area of forest burnt for ecological management purposes on an annual basis Potential iv) Area and percentage of regenerated coupes affected by browsing or other sub-indicator damage processes (e.g. drought, frost, etc.) reporting areas v) Annual quantity (tonnes) of pesticide or herbicide used to control damage agents vi) Area and percentage of forested land subject to levels of specific air pollutants (e.g. ozone, nitrates) that may cause negative impacts on forest ecosystems vii) Area of forest damage, by age class and forest type, caused by insects and pathogens Rationale Indicator: Victoria’s State forests are impacted by a range of disturbances, both natural and human-induced. It is important that we monitor major disturbance processes that may impact on the maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide an overview of the major disturbances potentially affecting ecological processes in Victoria’s State forests. Measurement of these indicators will also enable researchers to develop links between aspects of the fire regime and the response of plants and animals, impacts on soil health and hydrology. This information will inform on the impacts of fire management practices and enable Victorians to engage in discussions on topics as diverse as fire suppression, pesticide usage, or wood supply. Issues • There are various scales at which disturbances can be reported (for example by forest, landscape or Catchment Management Authority region); • Defining a threshold for ecosystem health needs to be considered with respect to the natural extent of the damaging process; • Human disturbances require consideration when reporting on this indicator; • Cross-border considerations need to be made; and • Consideration of factors related to fires such as season, severity, patchiness, type and intent, should be incorporated into this indicator – refer to the Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land (2006). Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Environment Protection Authority Victoria; • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australian Government); • Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service; • Parks Victoria; and • Australian Bureau of Meteorology. 206 28 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Potential methods • Remote sensing; • Establish a network of forest health plots across the state – monitor with inventory plots; • Pest risk analysis; • State forests Environmental Management System; • Liaison with external agencies such as Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australian Government), Department of Primary Industries, Parks Victoria, Catchment Management Authorities and other State equivalents; • Case studies for particular events relating to early detection/threat; • For a review of methods used to collect fire data see Chatto and Tolhurst (2004); and • Case studies on flooding (for example River Redgum forests). Interpretation Disturbance can contribute to a healthy forest ecosystem, however, large changes in the frequency of some types of disturbance may be undesirable. Consequently, the frequency of disturbance needs to be managed (where possible) to maintain ecosystem health. The type and extent of disturbance, the level of damage and its impact on ecosystems will also need to be considered. In the past decade, there has been considerable scientific debate about defining a ‘natural’ range of variation in ecosystem health. There can be a number of positive impacts (for example ecosystem renewal) associated with storm and fire damage. These impacts will depend on the timing and intensity of the event. 207 29 Criterion 3 Maintenance3 of ecosystemsecosystem health and vitality and vitality Indicator: 3.2 Area and type of human-induced disturbance CATEGORYA A i) Harvested area by silvicultural system and forest type, and percentage of total forest area ii) Regeneration area and percentage change in the composition of the disturbed area Potential iii) Area of forest and percentage of total forest area covered by grazing licences sub-indicator by forest type reporting areas iv) Area of prescribed burning (e.g. fuel reduction, regeneration, ecological) undertaken on State forest and percentage of total forest area v) Area and percentage of forest thinned by age and forest type vi) Impact of other human induced disturbances (e.g. mining, infrastructure and recreation) Rationale Indicator: Human-induced disturbance, whether intentional or unintentional, has the potential to significantly affect forest ecosystem health. Some human induced disturbance is undertaken for management purposes (for example prescribed burning) to achieve particular outcomes or objectives. Monitoring of this indicator is essential to assess the impact of human induced disturbances and the effectiveness of forest resource management. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to track the nature of the human-induced disturbance in Victoria’s State forests. Issues • To assess changes in forest condition, a comparative benchmark needs to be determined such as pre- European settlement or pre-harvesting. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Remote sensing; and • Field survey. Interpretation The boundary between natural phenomena and direct human-induced activities is difficult to define, for example when significant forest losses occur as a result of natural or human-induced fires, or for disturbances such as pest and pathogen outbreaks. Consequently, distinguishing between the natural and anthropogenic factors that influence forest vulnerability to disturbance will be difficult. Disturbance from human land-use and management activities differ from natural disturbance processes and may elicit different biotic responses and disrupt ecological relationships. The widespread prevalence of human land-use requires that human activity be addressed as a fundamental ecological process and that lessons from investigations of land-use history be applied to the conservation and management of forested landscapes (Foster et al., 2003). 208 30 Criterion 4 Conservation and maintenance of soil and water resources “Soil and water are two of the most fundamental resources associated with our State forests. We need to ensure that we have clean water coming from our forests and that terrestrial and aquatic processes in forests are maintained.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 209 Criterion 4 Conservation4 and maintenance of soil and water resources Indicator: 4.1 Area and percentage of forest by activity type systematically assessed for risk to soil attributes B Potential i) Soil erosion ii) Change in nutrient status sub-indicator iii) Biological composition/activity reporting areas iv) Structural decline (compaction) Rationale Indicator: Soil sustains plant production and other ecological and hydrological functions of the forest through its ability to hold and supply water and nutrients, to store organic matter, and to provide suitable habitat for plant roots and a wide range of organisms. Forest management can remove and redistribute soil nutrients and organic matter, and can alter the physical properties of the soil to the extent that productivity and other ecosystem functions are impaired. This indicator aims to assess changes in key soil properties. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to evaluate soil properties, compliance with soil disturbance standards, and the extent to which soil disturbance exceeds acceptable thresholds. Issues • The methodologies to cost-effectively monitor the potential sub-indicators are still being developed for statewide application by Department of Sustainability and Environment. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council; • eWater Cooperative Research Centre; and • VicForests. Potential methods • To determine appropriate methodologies relevant to this indicator, there is a need to address ongoing issues regarding appropriate techniques for the broad-scale measurement of soil physical, chemical and biological attributes and the need to evaluate the relationships between those attributes. Interpretation Some soil disturbance is expected during forestry activities and is considered to be acceptable if there is no impact on forest productivity. In some cases, disturbance may also be desirable, such as for regeneration purposes. This indicator aims to assess undesirable soil disturbance. A map of the area assessed, including areas with no data, could be useful for reporting. In the future, it is hoped that a common approach to soil disturbance monitoring will be developed to statistically indicate the areas with significant soil damage. See also Indicators 3.1 and 3.2. 210 32 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Indicator: 4.2 Change in forested catchment water yield characteristics through time B Rationale Indicator: This indicator aims to measure the effects of forest management and other factors on water yield. This is important for stream health and for water supply for human use. Activities throughout a catchment strongly influence water resources. This is due to the strong influence land use has on the quantity of runoff, and consequently, the amount of water reaching watercourses. Within forested catchments natural characteristics such as vegetation cover and type, presence of impermeable surfaces, catchment topography and geomorphology, and groundwater levels all influence surface runoff. Forestry activities can influence water yield as well as the timing and peak flows in rivers and streams. For example, harvesting can increase catchment water yield as a result of higher runoff, whereas regrowth areas can decrease water yield due to increased water uptake for tree growth. In addition, disturbances such as fire can also affect water yields in forested catchments. Considering this indicator at a catchment scale may help inform landscape-level planning to ensure that catchments deliver a sustainable supply of water into the future. Issues • Characteristics other than water yield may need consideration, including groundwater flows; • A risk assessment approach is required; • This indicator should be reported against a theoretical maximum yield (percentage); and • Sampling must be comprehensive enough to adequately capture statewide trends. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Bureau of Meteorology; and • Melbourne Water. Potential methods • Measurement against Forest Management Area prescriptions relating to catchments (for example in the Thompson Reservoir, Midlands and Otways); and • Analysis will incorporate the age of the forest (linked with Criterion 1). Interpretation Water yield varies dramatically according to season and these variations must be accounted for. The amount of change within a forested catchment (for example loss of cover, growth stage changes) before significant impacts to water yield characteristics are observed will vary with topography, underlying surficial material, forest type, and regional weather patterns. This indicator can be used as a ‘coarse filter’ highlighting catchments where water yield issues need to be addressed. The causes of disturbance in forested catchments, whether natural or anthropogenic, as well as the potential effects of climate change should be considered in the interpretation of this indicator. 211 33 Criterion 4 Conservation4 and maintenance of soil and water resources Indicator: 4.3 Change in forested catchment river health CATEGORY characteristics through time BA Reach scale impacts i) Percentage compliance with locally applicable road construction, stream crossing and riparian zone management standards • Road density for entire catchment (km/km2) • Number of stream crossings (no./km2) • level of road use • Failed culvert by culvert type ii) Percentage to which forest operations have been systematically assessed for Potential risk to water quality iii) Percentage to which the application of chemicals has been systematically sub-indicator assessed for risk to water quality reporting areas Ecological scale impacts iv) Index of Stream Condition • Hydrology • Streamside zone • Physical form • Water quality • Aquatic life v) Water quality attainment ratings in each Catchment Management Authority region Rationale Indicator: Activities throughout a forested catchment can have adverse effects on river health. Without good baseline information we can not set realistic long-term management objectives for our rivers or determine priorities for action. This indicator allows the development of river-related management objectives and to measure the effectiveness of long-term programs for the health of rivers in State forests. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: i) Poorly constructed road and stream crossings and inappropriate activity in riparian zones can lead to increased sedimentation, water quality degradation, and changes in the flow and timing of water courses. These changes can have significant impacts on aquatic ecosystem health, as well as on human populations that depend on healthy river systems. iv) The Index of Stream Condition is an indicator of environmental condition. It uses information on river flow, water quality, channel and riparian zone condition, and macroinvertebrate communities, to provide an overall assessment of riverine health. Issues • Water quality is typically assessed according to chemical, physical and microbiological parameters. These parameters need to be considered with regard to the range of forest management activities; • For many of the sub-indicators, the different scales at which data is measured within catchments needs to be considered; • Interpretation of Index of Stream Condition data from ‘reach’ scale to ‘ecological’ scale may be difficult; • Adequate reporting requires sufficient survey stands and Index of Stream Condition sites within forest catchments; • Point source impacts (for example roads, harvesting areas) require consideration; and • Areas associated with changes in water quality may contain a range of land tenures. 212 34 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Water Data Warehouse; • Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council; • eWater Cooperative Research Centre; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Environment Protection Authority Victoria; • Department of Primary Industries; and • Melbourne Water. Potential methods • Consult with relevant water supply authorities and agencies for forests, or parts of forests, located in a water supply catchment designated under schedule 5 of the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994; and • Index of Stream Condition – overall assessment of riverine health. Interpretation An improvement in the Index of Stream Condition rating for streams located in forests may be equated with improvements in management. 213 35 214 36 Criterion 5 Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles “Forests in our landscape have an important role to play in the global carbon cycle. Growing forests harness carbon found in the atmosphere, while timber products store carbon. However, we need to better understand and report on how forests, their biomass and forest products contribute to managing carbon in the atmosphere.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 215 Criterion 5 Maintenance5 of forest contribution to global carbon cycles Indicator: 5.1 Total forest ecosystem biomass and carbon pool by forest type, age class and successional stages B i) Mean Annual Increment by forest type and age class Potential ii) Tree biomass volumes iii) Non-tree biomass volumes sub-indicator iv) Soil carbon pools reporting areas v) Removals (fire and harvesting) vi) Net change in forest products carbon Rationale Indicator: Estimates of total forest biomass allow changes in the total carbon pool to be assessed. Estimation by forest type and age class improves understanding of these changes. This indicator provides valuable information to Victorians, helping to inform the debate on actions designed to mitigate human-induced climate change. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: Victoria’s forests store a considerable amount of carbon, and the ability of the forest to take up carbon may factor in future attempts to mitigate climate change at the international level. These sub-indicators measure the rate of change in the total forest ecosystem carbon pool over time. They indicate whether Victoria’s forests are a sink for, or a source of, atmospheric carbon. While the total amount of carbon stored in forest products is tiny relative to that stored in forests or in the atmosphere, it is an important component of the overall carbon cycle. Issues • Mean Annual Increment is dependent upon age and not necessarily indicative of total changes in carbon stock across the entire forest estate; • Clarification of the difference between non-tree biomass and soil carbon pools; and • Changes in carbon stock due to fire are difficult to estimate. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Greenhouse Office; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); and • Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial ResearchO rganisation. Potential methods • use data from other indicators, such as Indicator 2.3 (Annual removal of growing stock); • FullCAM (Carbon accounting model from the National Carbon Accounting System); • Modelling of Statewide Forest Resource Inventory program data; • Australian Greenhouse Office – Australian Methodology for the Estimation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks; and • Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial ResearchO rganisation – Life Cycle Analysis database. Interpretation This indicator assesses the relative size of the forest carbon pool. Any interpretation will have to take into account factors such as the age class distribution of the forest, fire history, disease or insect disturbance. It is also important to note that carbon budget (storage) results depend on the scale of model used. The decay of forest products, and the subsequent release of carbon into the atmosphere, generally depends on the type of product. Soil carbon pools comprise a significant proportion of the total forest ecosystem carbon pool, and as such, are a very important contributor to changes in carbon stocks. The soil carbon pool is sensitive to changes in forest management practices. 216 38 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Indicator: 5.2 Contribution of forest ecosystems to the global greenhouse gas balance B i) Estimated tonnes of greenhouse gas uptake or release by forest type and age class (report separate subtotals for CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF6 in Potential tonnes) sub-indicator ii) Fuel consumption for timber harvesting (per m3 of product) compared with reporting areas average fuel consumption for agricultural, manufacturing and retail sectors iii) Use and emissions of ozone-depleting substances (in tonnes of CFC –11 equivalents) Rationale Indicator: Human activities are increasing the concentrations of greenhouse gases that cause climate change. Forest ecosystems play an important role in the global greenhouse gas balance. This indicator provides information on emissions and removals of greenhouse gases (including carbon) from forest ecosystems over time for comparison with other land cover types or other sectors of the economy. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: Forest management can have a positive or negative impact on greenhouse gas emissions. These sub- indicators aim to quantify these impacts. Issues • The significance of emissions other than OC 2 from forests is yet to be determined; • Measurements of fuel consumption are difficult and may vary depending on factors such as machinery used, the type of slope, and type of road surface; and • There may be some limitations in the practical measuring of the sub-indicators. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and the Environment; • Australian Greenhouse Office; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation; • Department of the Environment and Water Resources (Australian Government); and • National Land and Water Resources Audit (Australian Government). Potential methods • FullCAM (carbon accounting model from the National Carbon Accounting System) can report changes in carbon due to nitrogen cycling and provides outputs in terms of CO2 equivalents; and • Upgrade existing permanent plot data to assess changes in forest structure and carbon pools. A system for monitoring change in the carbon pools also needs to be established. Interpretation The greenhouse consequences of forest management are best interpreted at larger scales because it is the net effect across the landscape, rather than local changes, that influence the global atmosphere. Site level greenhouse gas emissions should not be interpreted as a measure of sustainability. Both temporal patterns and longer-term trends in greenhouse gas emissions from forests can be of interest. Annual estimates of net greenhouse gas emissions are useful for increasing our understanding of fluxes to and from the atmosphere, even though natural variation due to factors such as climate and wildfire can often be far greater than the effects of management. Trends over longer periods (10–20 years) reflect the integrated effect of significant land use change and forest management decisions as well as the effects of climate change. 217 39 218 40 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio- economic benefits to meet the needs of societies “Victorian communities have strong social, spiritual and cultural links to their State forests. These links are often related to traditional forest uses, recreation and the provision of jobs. Recognising and using the valuable experience and knowledge that resides in the community will greatly contribute to the sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 219 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.1 Production and consumption Indicator: 6.1a Value ($) of wood and wood products B i) Value of primary timber products to the Gross State Product • Sawlog – hardwood/softwood • Residual wood • Pulpwood • Specialty timbers ii) Value of secondary timber products per volume/unit harvested • Poles Potential • Posts sub-indicator • Sleepers reporting areas • Hewn timber • Bush sawn/split timbers • Firewood • Stakes • Burls iii) Production, consumption, imports, and exports of timber products iv) Timber price trend v) Victoria’s share in all forest products markets (percentage) Rationale Indicator: Enables socio-economic benefits to be monitored by ascertaining trends in the value and volume of wood production. Marketed timber products, including primary and secondary manufacturing, provide livelihoods, government revenues for public services, profits to businesses and incomes for landowners. This indicator shows the relative contribution of wood and wood products to the Victorian economy. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators provide supporting information to aid in interpreting Indicator 6.1a. The ability of timber product producers to compete in domestic and international markets is partly dependent on their ability to develop secondary manufacturing products, commonly called ‘value-added’ products, for specialty markets. The balance of volumes of production, consumption, imports and exports indicates the relative development pressure on forest resources, both domestically and internationally. The sustainability of domestic forests to produce the quantity of wood and wood products required by Victorians may become threatened if consumption exceeds domestic supply, and foreign supplies become limited. Issues • Forest certification will play an increasing role in assessing buyer identification by product. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • VicForests; • Department of Primary Industries; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; • Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics; and • National Land and Water Resources Audit (Australian Government). Potential methods • Analysis of data from industry sources and Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics; and • Analysis of the markets into which Victorian timber is sold. 220 42 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Interpretation Increases in the contribution of the sector are open to several interpretations. They may signal unsustainable pressures on timber and non-timber resources, or they may signal desirable increases in manufactured value from a sustainably managed resource base. An increase of net export earnings could indicate the competitiveness of the Victorian timber products industry. A decrease in net export earnings could indicate a loss of competitiveness or greater domestic consumption. 221 43 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.1 Production and consumption Indicator: 6.1b Value ($) and yield of non-wood forest products B Potential i) Contribution of non-timber forest products to the Gross State Product sub-indicator ii) Production, consumption, imports and exports of non-timber forest products reporting areas iii) Value by type of non-wood forest products (m3, kg) Rationale Indicator: Enables socio-economic benefits to be monitored by ascertaining trends in values and yields of non- timber forest products against management objectives. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: Non-timber forest products provide livelihoods, government revenues for public services, profits to business, and incomes for landowners. These sub-indicators show the relative importance of non- forest timber products to the forest sector. Individually, non-timber forest products (for example, honey) are important on a regional scale. Collectively, non-timber forest products are important to the State economy. Similarly, marketed forest-based services (for example, tourism, recreation, and carbon credits) also provide livelihoods, government revenues for public services, profits to business, and incomes for landowners. Although their contribution to the national economy is relatively small compared with timber products, they are wide-spread and involve many people. Some forest-based services, such as wilderness tourism, are currently relatively small but are growing in social and economic importance. In addition, carbon credits may significantly contribute to Victoria’s economy in the future. Issues • Databases for non-wood forest products do not distinguish between the areas where products have been sourced; and • Game data is supplied voluntarily and may not be accurate. Dollar value will only be for licences issued. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; and • National Land and Water Resources Audit (Australian Government). Potential methods • licence databases. Interpretation A positive trend in dollar value is generally considered desirable, but in itself provides no indication of sustainability. A sharp decrease might be a sign of mismanagement, but could also result from dramatic changes in market demand (consumer tastes) or seasonal variations. 222 44 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.1 Production and consumption Indicator: 6.1c Value ($) of forest derived ecosystem services C Potential sub-indicator i) Cost ($) per megalitre of water from forested catchments reporting areas Rationale Indicator: Forest derived ecosystem services include environmental processes that enhance our quality of life. These range from the maintenance of water and soil quality, to protecting biodiversity and mitigating global warming. This indicator recognises the important role that State forests play in providing these and other invaluable ecosystem services to the broader community. Assigning an economic value to these services will better reflect the contribution that State forests make to the Victorian economy. Values can be estimated from the similar goods and services that are exchanged in a market. Whilst this indicator is not limited to the assessment of water resources, such assessment currently provides a clear, measurable indication of the value of forest derived ecosystem services. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: This sub-indicator assesses the value of an important ecosystem service offered by forests in Victoria. Issues • There is a limit to the accuracy with which ecosystem services can be valued at this stage; • Water is harvested from most catchments in Victoria and the cost of production is aligned to the cost of provision and delivery; and • Development and change in the theory and methodologies of valuing ecosystem services may cause difficulties in deriving long term comparative trends. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; and • Victorian water retailers. Potential methods • Department of Sustainability and Environment – Ecotender; Bush broker; Carbon tender and other projects. Interpretation Increases in this indicator demonstrate the increased value that society gains from ecosystem services. This indicator is linked to indicator 4.2. 223 45 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.1 Production and consumption Indicator: 6.1d Degree of reuse and recycling of wood products B Rationale This indicator identifies the extent to which forest-derived products are reused and recycled. Reuse and recycling of forest products conserves Victoria’s forest resource base, reduces the volume of solid waste to land-fill, and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Issues • There are difficulties in quantifying the capacity of Victoria’s recycling facilities to recycle timber. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Paper Industry Council; • Victorian Greenhouse Office; and • Sustainability Victoria. Potential methods • To obtain an indication of the degree of recycling, the volume of products recycled may be reported as a proportion of annual consumption or production. Interpretation An increase in the recycling of forest products indicates more efficient use of forest resources and, consequently, a move toward more sustainable forest use. 224 46 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.2 Investment in the forest sector Indicator: 6.2a Investment and expenditure in forest management A Potential i) Investment by Government in forest management as a percentage of Gross State Product sub-indicator ii) Average expenditure in forest asset protection (e.g. prescribed fire) reporting areas iii) Expenditure on forest infrastructure (e.g. roads, bridges, fire towers) Rationale Indicator: Provides an indication of the long-term and short-term commitment to forest management, further processing and other forest uses. Business viability is essential for a competitive and dynamic timber products industry that can support sustainable communities. Business viability is dependent on adequate investment to maintain efficiency and competitiveness. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide different perspectives on the level of investment in forest management. Issues None identified. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; • Parks Victoria; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Analysis of data from State agencies. Interpretation Trends in investment need to be considered in relation to the forest management objectives for Victoria’s State forests. 225 47 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.2 Investment in the forest sector Indicator: 6.2b Investment in research and development, and education A i) Number of forestry professionals with recognised qualifications in natural Potential resource management or forest science working in forest management ii) Investment ($) in forest management research and development by sub-indicator government, and percentage of forest management funding over time reporting areas iii) Investment ($) in forest-related community and public education programs by government, and the number of programs initiated annually Rationale Indicator: Socio-economic benefits over time depend on investments in knowledge to ensure ongoing productivity of both the forest resource base and timber products industry. Ongoing forest research, typically funded by governments, is required to support or update existing guidelines and standards, or to support the creation of new guidelines and standards. Industry competitiveness requires ongoing innovation in timber production, products, processing technologies and forest-based research. Investment in forest-based education builds the capacity of the population to contribute innovative ideas to the workplace and to participate in effective decision-making. This indicator describes Victoria’s long-term commitment to forest research, timber products research, and community development and education. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to further quantify the level of commitment to research and development, and education by government and industry. Issues None identified. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • Arthur Rylah Institute; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Analysis of data from State agencies. Interpretation As a general rule, declining expenditures on research and development, and education indicate a reduced capacity to respond to a changing economic climate. Increasing expenditure on forest related education is likely to lead to more effective public participation. 226 48 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.2 Investment in the forest sector Indicator: 6.2c Extension and use of new and improved technologies B Rationale This is an indicator of continuous improvement in forest management and in forest-based industries relevant to the sustainability of forest use. Issues • There are issues interpreting, and major practical difficulties obtaining, meaningful data for this indicator. These difficulties include: – Defining what constitutes a new or improved technology; – Research and development effort is commonly measured by funds invested, rather than rate of adoption; and – While it would be desirable for this indicator to cover forest on all land tenures managed for all uses, it is impractical to obtain meaningful data or information for all forests and uses, especially for non-commercial uses. • With the possible exception of technologies that only apply in particular regions, assessing this indicator is unlikely to be relevant or practical at a regional level. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); • VicForests; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; • Bureau of Rural Sciences (Australian Government); • Australian Bureau of Statistics; and • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation. Potential methods • This indicator will be reported in narrative format only, outlining relevant trends and information. Interpretation Adoption of new technologies will lead to more efficient resource use and improved management of forests. Forest management guidelines and standards should be supported or updated by ongoing research. New standards should be put forward and old ones updated as new knowledge becomes available. 227 49 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.3 Recreation and Tourism Indicator: 6.3a Area and quality of forest actively utilised for recreation and tourism A Potential i) Economic contribution of forests to the tourism sector (local and State) sub-indicator ii) Cost of maintenance activities in recreation and tourism areas reporting areas iii) Level of visitor satisfaction Rationale Indicator: This indicator provides information on the utilisation of forests for the purpose of recreation and tourism. It recognises the role that forests play in the provision of nature-based tourism experiences and the contribution this has to both the regional and State economy. This indicator also provides a measure of the extent to which forest management is providing for the recreational needs of the community, and the contribution of forests to the tourism sector. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to quantify the economic costs and benefits of tourism and recreation related opportunities in forests, and the level of visitor satisfaction with such opportunities. Issues • Recreation and tourism sites need to be classified according to site quality and level of service provision; • The meaning of economy in this context needs to be defined; • Determining the most appropriate measures for calculating the economic benefits of forests to recreation/tourism, and the optimum area and quality of forest required for sustainable recreation and tourism use; and • Reporting mechanisms for visitor numbers needs to be refined. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Parks Victoria; • Tourism Alliance Victoria; • Tourism Victoria; and • Sport and Recreation Victoria (Department for Victorian Communities). Potential methods • Standard multipliers will need to be applied to visitor numbers to determine economic contribution; and • Parks Victoria – community surveys for visitor satisfaction and customer perception. Interpretation The data will show the supply and availability of forest for recreation and tourism. Trends would need to be interpreted in the context of management intent and public demand. 228 50 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.3 Recreation and Tourism Indicator: 6.3b Range and use of recreation and tourism opportunities that are available within forests A Rationale This indicator provides information on the diversity of recreation and tourism opportunities available in State forest in Victoria. Issues • Increases in the number of activities could be attributed to changes in State forest provisions or community activity; • Visitation of European and Indigenous cultural sites needs to be included in this indicator; and • Maintenance costs will vary between regions depending on recreation and tourism facilities available and the number of visitors. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Parks Victoria; • Tourism Victoria; • Tourism Alliance Victoria; and • Sustainable Tourism Services Cooperative Research Centre. Potential methods • Annual statewide surveys of community forest awareness and the recreation/tourism activities undertaken in forests (for example Parks Victoria surveys). Interpretation Data to be interpreted in terms of the variety and the number of activities per site. It would be useful to compare provisions available for activities with community demands. 229 51 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.3 Recreation and Tourism Indicator: 6.3c Number of visits per annum B Rationale Provides an indication of overall visitor use and demand. It is a key variable in determining the sustainability of recreation and tourism. Issues • The number of visitor access points into a forest limits the accuracy of visitor estimates; and • Data from Tourism Research Australia can not be subdivided to particular areas. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Parks Victoria; • Tourism Alliance Victoria; • Tourism Victoria; • Tourism Research Australia; • Local Councils; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; and • Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre. Potential methods • Analysis of data from State agencies. Interpretation When compared with 6.3a, this indicator highlights trends in annual recreation and tourism over time with respect to the area actively available for use. This indicator also provides data on the rates of visitation and relative locations of visits. This can be used to determine where potential impacts may occur, or where facilities are required for planning initiatives. . 230 52 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.4 Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural, social, and spiritual needs and values Indicator: 6.4a Area of forest to which Indigenous people have access and rights that protect their cultural heritage and are recognised through formal and informal management A regimes Rationale This indicator is aimed at identifying whether adequate land is placed mutually and appropriately under the range of tenure classifications and/or dedicated management regimes to protect Indigenous peoples’ values associated with forests. These values include formal access and custodial rights, cultural maintenance and ceremony, education and Aboriginal cultural heritage places. This indicator also monitors whether an acceptable level of accountability for the protection of Indigenous peoples’ cultural, social and spiritual needs and values is being maintained. Issues • Level of awareness of Aboriginal cultural heritage management practices by forest managers; • Resourcing of Aboriginal cultural heritage surveys in partnership with traditional owners and any other relevant Indigenous groups; • Indigenous ownership of data and intellectual property rights; • The benefits to Indigenous communities through appreciation of Country can not be measured in dollar terms; • Indigenous peoples’ connection to Country including ceremonial, spiritual affiliation, sense of place and custodial obligations is included in this indicator; • Opportunities by which Indigenous people can obtain education and training in natural and cultural resource management; and • Illegal destruction of Aboriginal sites and places. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; • Traditional owners; and • Parks Victoria. Potential methods • Identification and protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage places; • Involvement of local Indigenous communities and traditional owners in interpretation at all levels; • Education of children in Indigenous communities to maintain cultural continuity through: – Oral histories, customs and traditions, dreamings; – Aboriginal sites and places; and – Reconciliation themes. • Active protection and management for appropriate protective mechanisms in partnership with traditional owners and any other relevant Indigenous groups; • Ascertaining numbers of cultural sites legally destroyed (data collected under appropriate legislation); • The development of cultural heritage management plans, cultural heritage agreements, or forest management plans in partnership with traditional owners and any other relevant Indigenous organisation; • Funding and active management for the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage places; • Prosecutions under relevant legislation where infringements are identified; • Monitor Aboriginal sites and places against inventory; and • Consult with appropriate traditional owners and any other relevant Indigenous groups. 231 53 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Interpretation This indicator aims to assess whether measures are adequate to protect Indigenous peoples’ cultural, social and spiritual needs and values, and Aboriginal cultural heritage places. This indicator is also linked to legislation requirements for the protection of Indigenous and non-Indigenous values (see Indicator 7.2). 232 54 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.4 Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural, social, and spiritual needs and values Indicator: 6.4b Proportion of places of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural values in forests formally managed to protect those A values i) Number of Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff with specialist cultural heritage management skills ii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places with agreed conservation management plans iii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places presented or interpreted to the public Potential iv) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places disturbed sub-indicator as a result of forest or fire management operations reporting areas v) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places where active conservation works have been completed vi) Number of new places added to the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register and the Historic Places database; or number of existing records that have been updated or reviewed vii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places with an active monitoring program Rationale Indicator: This indicator measures and monitors management regimes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural heritage values such as Aboriginal cultural heritage places, historical sites, research and education programs, social heritage and aesthetic values. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: Improved management of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places depends on the involvement of traditional owners, other relevant Indigenous groups, and the general public. It is important that known sites of cultural, social and spiritual values are actively managed and monitored, and that potential sites are examined when required. Issues • Indigenous communities have not always been consulted in the assessment of non-Indigenous sites. However, such sites may have importance to Indigenous communities (for example displacement from the area by Europeans); • Because inter-relationships exist between many Indigenous and non-Indigenous heritage sites, distinctions between Indigenous, European and natural history are not always clear; • The general public is often reluctant to supply information on sites for fear that land may be lost or permanently reserved; and • Intrinsic benefits to the community can not be measured in dollar terms. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; • Heritage Victoria; • National Trust; • Department of Environment and Water Resources (Australian Government); • Parks Victoria; and • Indigenous groups. 233 55 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Potential methods • Analysis of data from State agencies. Interpretation This indicator assesses whether forest management prescriptions are adequate to protect community sites of cultural heritage, and historical and spiritual values. 234 56 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator: 6.5a Direct and indirect employment in the forest sector and forest sector employment as a proportion of total B employment i) Total Full Time Equivalent and number of jobs indirectly and directly employed in the forest sector Potential ii) Age and gender profile of employment in the forestry sector iii) Age and gender related indices for staff involved in forest management sub-indicator (Victorian Government forest management agencies) reporting areas iv) Percentage of Aboriginal people employed in forest management (Victorian Government forest management agencies) in comparison to non-Indigenous people Rationale Indicator: Employment rates in forest dependent communities indicate extent of participation in the workforce and the degree to which forest dependent communities derive benefits from economic activity in forests. Employment is an important measure of the contribution of forests in meeting community needs. Direct employment is defined as employment in the wood and wood product industries, and forest contact industries (for example beekeeping, eco-tourism operations, grazing, and forest reserve management). Indirect employment is ‘other’ employment generated by direct forest employment. That is, the potential multiplier effect of direct forest employment (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998). Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide information on the nature of forest-related employment in State forests. Issues • All categories need to consider full time/part time and casual/seasonal employment; and • Numbers will depend on the response rate to the Australian Bureau of Statistics surveys, however, not all industries may respond to these. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; • Local government; • Timber Communities Australia; • Koori Business Network; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Australian Bureau of Statistics census data; and • Analysis of data from State agencies. Interpretation Employment trends need to be considered in the context of community expectations and industry developments in and around State forests. Changes in the number of people employed in the forest sector should be interpreted in relation to any changes to employment in other industry sectors, technology and economic policies. 235 57 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator: 6.5b Average wage rates and injury rates in major employment categories within the forest sector B Potential i) Number of accidents and injury rates by forest sector category sub-indicator ii) Standard injury, days lost, absentee rates and numbers of work-related reporting areas fatalities (including subcontracted workers) Rationale Indicator: A sustainable forest industry will ensure high levels of workforce health and welfare, and wage rates comparable with other rural industries. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to further describe the nature of the wage and injury rates for workers in State forests. Issues • Reporting on this indicator will require cooperation between government and industry. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • VicForests; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; and • Work Cover – annual statistics. Potential methods • Australian Bureau of Statistics census data on average wage rates and employment within forest sectors. Interpretation Wages in wood and wood product industries, compared to wages for similar occupations in the region, give an indication of the economic benefits of income security to forest dependent communities. Decreasing injury rates in the forest sector gives an indication of improved occupational health and safety and employment quality, providing a social benefit for communities. 236 58 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator: 6.5c Resilience of forest dependent communities to changing social and economic conditions B Potential i) Contracts ($ total) paid to local enterprise (including Department of sub-indicator Sustainability and Environment contracts) reporting areas ii) Migration history, likelihood of future migration Rationale Indicator: Communities with a high economic and cultural dependence on forest and forest-related industries should be sustainable. This indicator provides a measure of the extent to which communities are able to respond and adapt to change successfully. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to capture issues related to community health and stability, and community resilience to social and economic changes within specific sectors. Issues • ‘Forest dependent community’ will require definition; • Timber may be moved between regions for processing; and • Government employees in forest management should be included. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Australian Bureau of Statistics; • VicForests; • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation; • Victorian Department of Human Services; • Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development (Victoria); • Timber Communities Australia; • Shires/Local Councils; and • Parks Victoria. Potential methods • Continue to utilise case studies; and • Utilize same ‘communities’ over time. Interpretation In most cases, more economic diversity creates a more resilient community. 237 59 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator: 6.5d Resilience of forest dependent Indigenous communities to changing social and economic conditions B Potential i) Number and type of tenures offered to Indigenous peoples sub-indicator ii) Aboriginal employment reporting areas Rationale Indicator: It is important to understand the extent that Indigenous communities are dependent on forest resources for their viability and for the maintenance of their traditional values and cultural use. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators provide a measure of the relationship between State forests and Indigenous communities. Issues • Recognition of customs, traditions, laws/lores and values of Indigenous communities; and • For Indigenous communities, gender issues require specific interpretation by men or women only. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Koori Business Network; • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; and • VicForests. Potential methods • Speak to custodians and other Indigenous land managers where appropriate; • Continue to utilise case studies; and • Utilise same ‘communities’ over time. Interpretation Indigenous communities need to be involved in any form of social or economic community transitions. 238 60 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Element: 6.5 Employment and community needs Indicator: 6.5e Area of forest available and accessible for Indigenous people to exercise their inherent rights to meet subsistence or individual and family cultural and B spiritual needs Potential i) Area available for subsistence purposes ii) Area available for continued cultural use sub-indicator iii) Area available for continued resource use reporting areas iv) Areas where Indigenous partnerships are being practiced Rationale Indicator: Measures the opportunities for cultural and traditional lifestyles, and access to forests in accordance with any native title or other rights. Indigenous access to forests is vital for the maintenance of traditional values, lifestyles, cultural heritage and economic development. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide information on forest use by Indigenous people to better inform decision-makers. Issues • Recognition of customs, traditions, laws/lores and values of Indigenous communities; and • For Indigenous communities, gender issues require specific interpretation by men or women only. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; • The Department of Justice and Native Title Services; • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australian Government); • Parks Victoria; and • Local communities. Potential methods • Speak to appropriate custodians and other Indigenous land managers where appropriate; and • Continue to utilise case studies. Interpretation Sustainable forest management requires Indigenous input at all levels of Government. 239 61 Criterion 6 Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic6 benefits to meet the needs of societies Element: 6.6 Indigenous participation Indicator: 6.6a Extent to which the management framework includes the exercise of customary, custodial, traditional and native title rights as an essential component in achieving A sustainable forest management Potential i) Research partnerships ii) Extent of incorporation of Indigenous knowledge in cultural inventories sub-indicator iii) Level of Indigenous participation and/or consultation reporting areas iv) Indigenous information sharing and referrals program Rationale Indicator: This indicator measures the extent to which Indigenous people are able to actively participate in forest management. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to quantify various aspects of Indigenous participation in forest management. Issues • Native title rights and coexisting rights; • Access, residents’ rights, and protection of cultural sites and values; • Recognition of the spiritual character of the environment and of commercial and subsistence activities by Indigenous people; and • Indigenous involvement in decision-making mechanisms and representation at all levels of management. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria; • Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (Australian Government); • The Department of Justice and Native Title Services; and • Parks Victoria. Potential methods • Data need to be collected in a culturally appropriate manner in accordance with local protocols. Interpretation Indigenous satisfaction levels with participation and/or consultation in forest management should be used to assess performance against this indicator. 240 62 Criterion 7 Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management1 “A key component of ecologically sustainable development relates to the legal, institutional and economic frameworks that support the conservation and sustainable management of Victoria’s State forests. This includes community involvement in decision-making.” Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State forests (2006) 1 This Criterion relates to the governance mechanisms that are in place to support sustainable forest management. As a result, most of the associated indicators are qualitative in nature and require narrative-style reporting. 241 Criterion 7 Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and7 sustainable management Indicator: 7.1 Extent to which the legal framework (laws, regulations, guidelines) supports the conservation A and sustainable management of forests 7.1.1 Clarifies Indigenous and non-Indigenous property rights i) Provides for appropriate land tenure arrangements ii) Recognises and protects the inherent cultural heritage rights of Indigenous peoples including: (a) The right to self determination; (b) Native title rights of Indigenous peoples; and (c) Customary and traditional rights (including intellectual and cultural heritage rights) of Indigenous peoples. Potential iii) Level of Aboriginal satisfaction with involvement in developing policy, sub-indicator legislation, and agreements related to forest management iv) Extent or proportion of forest practices that incorporate Traditional Ecological reporting areas Knowledge 7.1.2 Provides for periodic forest-related planning, assessment, and policy review that recognise the range of forest values, including coordination with relevant sectors 7.1.3 Provides opportunities for public participation in public policy and decision- making related to forests and public access to information 7.1.4 Encourages the development and application of best practice codes and systems for forest management Indicator: A legal framework is essential for the sustainable management of forests and for maintaining Victoria’s position as an international leader in sustainable forest management. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: 7.1.1 This sub-indicator assesses: • The legal system and frameworks for land ownership and management, including self management; • The legal system and frameworks for Indigenous land management; and • Ownership and other inherent rights relating to land, particularly the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples. 7.1.2 Periodic assessment, review, policy, planning and management are important components of a legal framework for achieving sustainable forest management. This sub-indicator shows how the legal framework demonstrates the Department of Sustainability and Environment’s commitment to achieving sustainable forest management. 7.1.3 This sub-indicator assesses whether the legal framework ensures transparency and participation in public policy and decision making in Victoria’s State forests. 7.1.4 Best practice codes indicate a commitment to compliance with environmental management systems and demonstrate continuous improvement in forest management practices. 242 64 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Issues 7.1.1 • Native title and other land rights mechanisms need to be reported; • The degree to which the legal framework provides for the management of co-existing rights, including the rights of Indigenous peoples and non-indigenous individuals and groups; • Issues relating to cultural property will need to be addressed once relevant policies are developed; • The conservation and sustainable management of forests must comply with the requirements of any native title/land rights legislation; • The continuation of compatible Indigenous activities within the context of forest management; • Mechanisms (including effective resourcing) for involvement of Indigenous peoples in the management of natural and cultural resources; and • The responsibility of the Commonwealth Government for implementing the current native title legislation needs to be recognised in the context of this indicator. 7.1.2 • Appropriate assessment periods will vary depending on jurisdiction and task. 7.1.3 • Perceptions regarding the effectiveness of public participation processes will differ; and • Some commercial and traditional Indigenous information may be of a sensitive or exclusive nature. 7.1.4 • Environmental audit arrangements and compliance with the Environmental Management System for Victoria’s State forests need to be reported. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; and • Koori Business Network. Potential methods • Narrative reporting, including at the regional level, on the content and coverage of codes and compliance with the codes; and • Evaluation of legislation and management plans. Interpretation 7.1.1 Narrative. This indicator assesses the adequacy of the legal framework in providing mechanisms for clarifying Indigenous and non-Indigenous property rights and establishing appropriate land tenure arrangements. 7.1.2 Narrative. Demonstrates a commitment to sustainable forest management. This sub-indicator should be considered in conjunction with other indicators under Criterion 7. 7.1.3 Narrative. Indicates whether public participation and information processes involving all parts of the community have been effective. 7.1.4 Narrative. High level of application indicates a commitment to best practice. 243 65 Criterion 7 Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and7 sustainable management Indicator: 7.2 Extent to which the institutional framework supports the conservation and sustainable management A of forests 7.2.1 Provide for public involvement activities and public education, awareness and extension programs, and make available forest-related information 7.2.2 Undertake and implement periodic forest-related planning, assessment, and policy review, including cross-sectoral planning and coordination 7.2.3 Develop and maintain human resource skills across relevant disciplines Potential 7.2.4 Develop and maintain efficient physical infrastructure to facilitate the sub-indicator supply of forest products and services, and support forest management reporting areas 7.2.5 Enforce laws, regulations and guidelines i) Rate of compliance with sustainable forest management laws, regulations, and best management practices ii) Incidents of, and fines for, non-compliance with all applicable international declarations/conventions/treaties and national, sub-national, regional, and local regulations associated with environmental regulations Rationale Indicator: A commitment to building community awareness, regional assessment and planning, and policy review is essential for continuous improvement. The maintenance of appropriate levels of human resource skills, the enforcement of laws, regulations and guidelines, and the adoption of forest certification are mechanisms that can be utilised in demonstrating commitment to sustainable forest management. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: 7.2.1 An institutional commitment to building community awareness and support is essential for the sustainable management of forests. 7.2.2 Periodic regional planning, assessment, and policy review by the responsible institutions provide the basis for continuous improvement in forest management. 7.2.3 Appropriate levels of human resource skills are required to implement sustainable forest management. 7.2.4 The development and maintenance of physical infrastructure underpins efficient forest management and use. The main physical infrastructure in forests is the road network. Its development and maintenance provides a critical role in the provision of recreation, wood products, non wood products, fire prevention, fire response and management. 7.2.5 Enforcement of laws ensures that plans are implemented effectively. The sub-indicators aim to provide quantitative information related to enforcement. Issues 7.2.1 • Public concern regarding forest management varies and some communities/regions have a greater ownership of forest management than others. 7.2.3 • There is difficulty in identifying the full range of human resource skills required and available in particular regions; and • Further development of successional planning is required. 7.2.5 • Low levels of breach and prosecution may mean high levels of compliance, or a low level of enforcement. 244 66 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; • Arthur Rylah Institute; • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation; • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne); and • Environment Protection Authority Victoria. Potential methods • A narrative report addressing monitoring and enforcement effort; and • Report compliance against monitoring and the amount of monitoring undertaken. Interpretation 7.2.5 Number of breaches can reflect both enforcement effort and compliance with the law. 245 67 Criterion 7 Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and7 sustainable management Indicator: 7.3 Extent to which the economic framework supports the conservation and sustainable management of forests B 7.3.1 Investment and taxation policies and a regulatory environment which Potential recognise the long-term nature of investments and permit the flow of capital in sub-indicator and out of the forest sector in response to market signals, non-market economic reporting areas valuations, and public policy decisions in order to meet long-term demands for forest products and services Rationale Government investment and taxation policies can affect investment in forest conservation, forest growing and timber processing industries. This indicator examines the ways in which economic policies maintain and develop forest capital. Issues • Accounting for environmental services in economic frameworks is important for the sustainable management of forests (see also Indicator 6.1c). Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; • VicForests; • Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation; • Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics; and • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australian Government). Potential methods • Compilation of existing laws and policies that provide incentives for investment in forest capital; • Compilation of both national and state programs for investment in the forest sector; and • Identification of polices designed to promote access to forest product markets. Interpretation Discriminatory trade policies that distort market signals can affect sustainable forest management. Alternatively, trade liberalisation can have both positive and negative impacts. 246 68 Criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Indicator: 7.4 Capacity to measure and monitor changes in the conservation and sustainable management of forests A Potential 7.4.1 Coverage, currency and frequency of data and other information that is sub-indicator important for measuring or describing indicators associated with Criteria 1 to 7 reporting areas Rationale The conservation and sustainable management of forests depends on the capacity to measure and monitor social, economic and environmental conditions. This indicator will assess the data available to report against Victoria’s sustainable forest management indicators. Issues • Access to private sector forestry data and assessing the frequency, coverage and currency of that data; and • Assessing statistical confidence in a broad range of data sources. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Department of Primary Industries; • VicForests; • Bureau of Rural Sciences (Australian Government); and • Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Australian Government). Potential methods • Narrative summarising the frequency, coverage and currency of data and assessments. Interpretation Data collected under this indicator should demonstrate the timeliness and completeness of the information available for the sustainable management of forests. Results will indicate whether there is an improvement in reporting capacity. 247 69 Criterion 7 Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and7 sustainable management Indicator: 7.5 Capacity to conduct and apply research and development aimed at improving forest management, including development of scientific understanding of A forest ecosystem characteristics and functions Potential i) Number of sustainable forest management related research projects underway and/or completed on forest management or ecosystem processes sub-indicator ii) Number of applied social and natural science research projects which address reporting areas issues of local and regional significance Rationale Indicator: A scientific understanding of forest ecosystem characteristics and functions is needed to underpin sustainable forest management. There is also a need to develop methods that enable the full range of forest values to be considered in forest management. Potential sub-indicator reporting areas: These sub-indicators aim to provide a more detailed description of research and development capacity. Issues • Research often requires long-term studies which are dependent on adequate funding; and • Research funding must be specific to sustainable forest management requirements, consequently, accountability and progress reporting needs to be ensured. Possible data sources • Department of Sustainability and Environment; • Arthur Rylah Institute; and • School of Forest and Ecosystem Science (The University of Melbourne). Potential methods • Narrative report on initiatives undertaken to address regional research needs; • Number of research papers published relevant to sustainable forest management, by Criteria 1 to 6; • Number of people employed in research and development; and • Annual expenditure on research and development (see also Indicator 6.2b). Interpretation Research contributes significantly to improvements in sustainable forest management. 248 70 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Bibliography Carey, J.M., Burgman, M.A. and Chee, Y.E. (2004). Risk assessment and the concept of ecosystem condition in park management. Parks Victoria Technical Series No. 15. Parks Victoria, Melbourne. Commonwealth of Australia (1998). A Framework of regional (sub-national) level criteria and indicators of sustainable forest management in Australia. Montreal Process Implementation Group, Canberra. Chatto, K. and Tolhurst, K.G. (2004). A review of the relationship between fireline intensity and the ecological and economic effects of fire, and methods currently used to collect fire data. Research Report No. 67. Fire Management, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria. Department of Sustainability and Environment (2006). Sustainability Charter for Victoria’s State Forests. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. Foster, D., Swanson, F., Aber, J., Burke, I., Brokaw, N., Tilman, D. and Knapp, A. (2003). The importance of land-use legacies to ecology and conservation. Bioscience 53(1): 77–88. Hanski, I. (1999). Metapopulation ecology. Oxford University Press. Holling, C.S. (ed) (1978). Adaptive environmental assessment and management. John Wiley and Sons Ltd, Chichester. International Panel on Climate Change (2003). Land use, land use change and forestry. Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, Kanagawa, Japan. Kavanagh, R.P., Loyn, R.H. Smith, G.C., Taylor, R.J. and Catling, P.C. (2004). Which species should be monitored to indicate ecological sustainability in Australian forest management? In D. Lunney (ed). Conservation of Australia’s forest fauna (second edition). Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales, Mosman, Australia. pp. 959–987. Lambeck, R.J. (1997). Focal species: A multi-species umbrella for nature conservation. Conservation Biology, Volume 11, No. 4: 849–856. Lindenmayer, D.B. (1999). Future direction for biodiversity conservation in managed forests: indicator species, impact studies and monitoring programs. Forest Ecology and Management 115: 277–287. Lindenmayer, D.B., Margules, C.R. and Botkin, D.B. (2000). Indicators of biodiversity for ecologically sustainable forest management. Conservation Biology 14: 941–950. Lindenmayer, D.B., Cunningham, R.B., MacGregor, C., Incoll, R.D. and Michael, D. (2003). A survey design for monitoring the abundance of arboreal marsupials in the Central Highlands of Victoria. Biological Conservation 110: 161–167. Loyn, R.H. (2004). Research for ecologically sustainable forest management in Victorian eucalypt forests. In D. Lunney (Ed) Conservation of Australia’s forest fauna (second edition). Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales, Mosman. pp 783–806. National Forest Inventory (2003). Australia’s State of the Forests Report 2003. Bureau of Rural Sciences, Canberra. Nitschke, C.R., Hickey, G.M. and Innes, J.L. (2007). Effective monitoring and biodiversity in dynamic environments: Is it possible? In J.L. Innes and J.A. Timko (eds). Monitoring the effectiveness of biological conservation. UBC Press, Canada. Parma, A., Amarasekare, P., Mangel, M., Moore, J., Murdoch, W.W., Noonburg, E., Pascual, M.A., Possingham, H.P., Shea, K., Wilcox, W. and Yu, D. (1998). What can adaptive management do for our fish, food, forests and biodiversity? Integrative Biology 1: 16–26. 249 71 Bibliography Shea, K., Possingham, H.P., Murdoch, W.W., and Roush, R. (2002). Active adaptive management in insect pest and weed control: Intervention with a plan for learning. Ecological Applications 12: 927–936. University of Ballarat (1998). Strategic assessment of the condition of vegetation in Victorian Parks, report to Parks Victoria. Centre for Environmental Management, University of Ballarat, Ballarat. Wintle, B.A., Bekessy, S.A., Venier, L.A., Pearce, J.L., and Chisholm, R.A. (2005). Utility of dynamic- landscape models for sustainable forest management. Conservation Biology 19: 1930–1943. 250 72 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Glossary Aerial photograph Visual analysis, classification and mapping of forest, using photographs taken interpretation from an aircraft. Aesthetic value The response derived from an experience of the environment or particular natural and cultural attributes within it. This can be either to visual or non- visual elements and can embrace emotional response, sense of place, sound, smell and any other factors having a strong impact on human thoughts and feelings. Biodiversity The natural diversity of all life: the sum of all our native species of flora and fauna, the genetic variation within them, their habitats, and the ecosystems of which they are an integral part. Biomass The total mass of all plant and other material of biological origin in an area. Browsing Eating (grazing) of vegetation by livestock or wild animals. Burl A hardened, woody outgrowth on a tree. Catchment The natural boundary of the area where all surface water drains to a common point. Code of Practices Set of principles, procedures, guidelines and standards that specify minimum for Timber acceptable practices in harvesting and associated forest management Production operations. Comprehensive, A reserve system to conserve all native forest types as well as the plants and Adequate and animals that depend on them. Comprehensive – the full range of forest Representative communities recognised by an agreed national scientific classification at (CAR) Reserve appropriate hierarchical levels; Adequate – the maintenance of the ecological System viability and integrity of populations and communities; Representative - areas of forest that reflect the biological diversity of the communities. Coupe A single area of native forest or plantation of variable size, shape and orientation from which timber is harvested in one operation. Criteria and Hierarchical framework used to monitor, assess, and report on the status of indicators sustainable forest management at local, country or regional level. A criterion is a characteristic feature, a set of conditions, or a process, based on which sustainable forest practices may be assessed. An indicator is a quantitative or qualitative parameter which can be assessed in relation to a criterion. Disturbance Any range of factors affecting the condition of natural areas. Disturbance may be natural or human-induced. Natural disturbances include wildfires and rainstorms, and are part of the natural ecological processes. Human- induced disturbance includes timber harvesting, agricultural clearing, mining or livestock grazing. Important factors when considering disturbance are the origin, duration, and intensity of the disturbance, and its impact on the environment. Diversity A measure of the physical or biological complexity of a system. Ecological Vegetation classification system - groupings of vegetation communities based Vegetation Class on floristic, structural and ecological features. (EVC) Ecosystem All the organisms (including plants and animals) present in a particular area together with the physical environment with which they interact. 251 73 Glossary Endangered species Species and communities at risk of extinction if factors causing their decline and communities continue. This includes species and communities whose numbers have been reduced to a critical level or whose habitats have been drastically reduced. Status elsewhere in Australia is not considered when assessing Victorian species and communities in this category. Environmental Provides a systematic framework and process to assist an organisation in Management identifying and managing significant environmental impacts that may occur System (EMS) as a result of its activities. Also see State forest Environmental Management System. Erosion hazard The likelihood of soil erosion occurring because of soil erodibility, rainfall erosivity, slope and soil disturbance. Exotic Introduced to Australia, not native. Fauna A general term for animals (including reptiles, birds, marsupials, and fish). Flora A general term for plants. Forest An area, incorporating all living and non-living components, that is dominated by trees with an existing or potential stand height exceeding 5 metres, and with existing or potential projective foliage cover of overstorey strata of at least 30 per cent. This definition includes Australia’s diverse native forests and plantations, regardless of age. It is also sufficiently broad to encompass areas of trees that are sometimes described as woodlands. Forest certification The voluntary independent assessment of an organisation’s forest management activities and operations for a particular area of forest. Forest estate All forests growing on public or private lands. Forest Management The basic units for forest planning and management in Victoria. Currently Area Victoria is divided into 15 Forest Management Areas as defined in theForests Act 1958. Forest management A plan for public land applying to one or several Forest Management Areas, plan that is approved by the Secretary of the Department of Sustainability and Environment, which addresses the full range of values and uses in the Area. Forest Resource The classification and measurement of the forest estate to provide information Inventory on sustainable yield, forest land-use, and resource allocation. Forest stand See Stand. Forest type A classification of forests according to their life form and height of the tallest stratum, and the projected foliage cover of the tallest stratum. Game Wildlife species declared as game under the Wildlife Act 1975 to enable them to be hunted. Grade The designation of the quality of a sawlog, a piece of timber or other manufactured wood product in accordance with standard grading rules. Greenhouse gases Gases that affect the temperature of the Earth’s surface and climate. They include water vapour, ozone, chlorofluorocarbons, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. Groundwater All subsurface water occupying the pores and crevices of rock and soil. Growth stages The different forms exhibited by trees at various stages in their development e.g. regeneration, regrowth, pole, mature and senescent. 252 74 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Guidelines The directing principles adopted to establish decisions (zoning, actions or prescriptions) for the protection and management of forest values. They are not necessarily mandatory, and are to be interpreted and applied on the basis of information available, and in the context of the protection and management of other values in the forest. Habitat The natural home of a plant or animal. Hardwood Timber from flowering trees (botanically classified as Angiosperm), such as eucalypts, irrespective of the physical hardness of the timber, also used to refer to trees that have such timber. Harvesting As part of forest management, the cutting (felling) of trees to produce timber products. Hazard class (land Classification of similar land types on the basis of susceptibility to damage, degradation) such as soil erosion, from disturbances resulting from timber harvesting and related operations. Herbicide A chemical used to poison plants. Heritage All those things we have inherited from previous generations and which we value, including places, objects and folklore. Intensive Silvicultural intervention in a forest or stand beyond the minimum required management to ensure re-stocking. It can include some or all of site preparation, planting, fertilising, weed control, spacing and thinning. Management Details specific conditions or standards which apply to forest operations in the prescriptions vicinity of certain threatened flora or fauna. Mature forest Forest stands and/or individual trees where the tree crowns are well foliated and rounded. The height and crown development of the trees has effectively ceased (compared with regrowth) but decline of the crown (loss of limbs) has not yet significantly begun (as in the senescent or over mature growth stage). Mean Annual The average annual increase in the volume of individual trees or stands up Increment (MAI) to a given age. The MAl changes with different tree growth phases. MAI is commonly used to identify the biological maturity of the tree, and its readiness for harvesting. Merchantable Used to describe trees, or parts of trees, suitable for processing into forest produce and for which a market exists. Minor forest Forest produce other than sawlogs or residual logs. produce National Forest A joint Commonwealth and State / Territory program responsible for collating Inventory comprehensive information about the location and diversity of Australia’s forest estate. National Forest A joint Commonwealth and State / Territory Government response which Policy Statement outlines agreed objectives and policies for Australia’s public and private forests. National Park Land described as a national park on Schedule Two of the National Parks Act 1975. These are generally extensive areas of land of nationwide significance because of their outstanding natural features. Native A species of plant or animal that occurs naturally in a region. Non-merchantable Used to describe trees, or parts of trees, unsuitable for processing into forest produce. 253 75 Glossary Old-growth forest Ecologically mature forest where the effects of disturbances are now negligible. Overstorey Trees (or vegetation in general) in the upper stratum of the forest. Plantation Managed stands of trees of either native or exotic species, planted or sown primarily for timber production purposes. Population A group of interacting organisms of the same species that occupy a definable area. Private land 1. Land alienated from the Crown. 2. Unalienated land of the Crown (including private managed and controlled by other than the Minister for Water, Environment forest) and Climate Change, the Minister for Agriculture, or the Secretary of Sustainability and Environment. 3. Unalienated land of the Crown occupied under a lease from the Crown. 4. Land licensed under the Victorian Plantations Corporation Act 1993. Provenance The original geographic source or place from which that seed was obtained. (of seed) Public forest Any forest on Crown land for which government has management responsibility. Public land Unalienated land of the Crown managed and controlled by the Minister for Water, Environment and Climate Change, the Minister for Agriculture, or the Secretary of Sustainability and Environment, whether or not occupied under a licence or other right (but not including land occupied under a licence under the Victorian Plantations Corporation Act 1993). Pulpwood Timber cut and prepared primarily for the manufacture of wood pulp and for further processing to make paper or reconstituted wood product such as fibreboard. Reference areas An area of public land of ecological interest and significance preserved in its natural state. Reforestation The re-establishment of forest cover by planting or sowing species native to the locality on previously cleared or poorly forested land. Regeneration The renewal or re-establishment of native forest flora by natural or artificial means following disturbance such as timber harvesting or fire. Regional Forest An agreement between the Commonwealth and a State Government about Agreement (RFA) the long term management and use of forests in a region. Rehabilitation The restoration and revegetation of a site following disturbance such as timber harvesting or fire. Reserves Areas such as national parks and nature conservation areas which are subject to an established degree of protection from disturbance. Residual log Logs, not of sawlog quality, produced as a consequence of a sawlog harvesting operation. Unlike pulpwood the end-use of a residual log is not specified. Richness A measure of the abundance of individual elements within a particular place. For instance, the species richness of an ecological vegetation class (EVC) is the number of species which typically occur within that EVC. Riparian Of, or located on, the banks of rivers. Royalty A payment made for the value of timber harvested. 254 76 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Runoff The proportion of rain falling in a catchment which flows across the surface rather than infiltrating the soil. Runoff is a major agent of water erosion. Salvage harvesting Harvesting of forest produce to recover a resource that would otherwise be lost as result of damage such as fire, pests or disease. Sawlog A log considered suitable in size and quality for producing sawn timber. Sedimentation The pollution of streams and water bodies by sedimentary runoff. Senescent Old-growth stage of a forest stand or individual tree that is characterised by declining crown leaf area and irregular crown shape e.g. due to the loss of branches. Seral stage A plant community that occurs at a particular stage of succession. Silviculture The science and practice of managing harvesting, forest establishment, composition, and growth, to achieve specified objectives. Softwood Timber from cone-bearing trees (botanically classified as Gymnosperm), such as coniferous trees including pines and cypresses, irrespective of the physical softness of the timber. Also used to refer to trees that have such timber. Species A group of organisms that are biologically capable of breeding and producing fertile offspring. It is the lowest normal taxonomic classification in use. Stand A group of trees in a forest that can be distinguished from other groups on the basis of age, species composition, condition etc. STANDSIM A software program for predicting forest growth and timber yields, often used for E. regnans, E. delegatensis and E. sieberi forests in Victoria. State forest As defined in section 3 of theForests Act 1958, State forest comprises publicly owned land which is managed for the conservation of flora and fauna; for the protection of water catchments and water quality; for the provision of timber and other forest products on a sustainable basis; for the protection of landscape, archaeological, historical and other cultural values; and to provide recreational and educational opportunities. State forest Based on ISO 14001, ensures that an organisation understands and manages Environmental environmental risks associated with its activities, it is often used as the Management foundation for forest certification. Also seeEnvironmental Management System System. Stocking A measure of density of any given forest stand, which can be expressed in a variety of terms, such as the number of trees per hectare, the basal area per hectare, and the percentage of stocked plots. Stumpage The value of forest produce available in a forest. Succession (of forest The progressive change of species composition within a stand over time. If ecosystems) left undisturbed this succession will continue to a climax where the species composition will remain largely unchanged. Sustainable forest The stewardship and use of forests and forest land in a way, and at a rate, management (SFM) that maintains their biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, vitality and their potential to fulfil relevant ecological, economic and social functions. This is to be achieved at local, national, and global levels, both now and in the future, and in a way that does not cause damage to other ecosystems. Sustainable yield Yield of forest products that can be maintained for a given period, based on the capacity of the forest to produce that product whilst maintaining the functioning of the forest ecosystem. 255 77 Glossary Thinning The removal of part of a forest stand or crop, with the aims of increasing the growth rate and/or health of retained trees and, in commercial thinning, obtaining timber from trees that would otherwise eventually die before final harvest. Threatened A collective term used to denote species that are extinct, critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, data deficient, or conservation dependent. Timber A general term used to describe standing trees or felled logs before their processing into wood products. This includes timber from trees or parts of trees which are specified as available for timber harvesting, but does not include firewood collected for domestic use. Timber Release Plan Timber Release Plans are produced by VicForests in accordance with part 5 of the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004. The plans are publicly available and define the location and timing of timber harvesting operations, stand type, and roading activities over a five year period. Total merchantable The total amount of available merchantable wood. volume Tree A perennial plant having a self-supporting woody stem or trunk which has the potential to grow to over 5 metres in height. Value A principle, standard, or quality considered worthwhile or desirable. In sustainable forest management, values relate to the ecological, economic, and social aspects of forests and their uses. VicForests A state owned enterprise responsible for the sustainable harvest and commercial sale of forest produce in eastern Victoria. Vulnerable species A species or community is considered to be vulnerable when likely to become and communities endangered in the near future if the factors causing their decline continue e.g. through changes in land use. Status elsewhere in Australia is not considered when assessing Victorian species and communities in this category. Water supply A catchment from which water is used for domestic water supply purposes. catchment Weed Any plant that survives in an area where it is harmful or troublesome to land uses or values. Wilderness Land that, together with its plant and animal communities, is in a state that has not been substantially modified by, and is remote from, the influences of European settlement or is capable of being restored to such a state, is of sufficient size to make its maintenance in such a state feasible, and is capable of providing opportunities for solitude and self-reliant recreation. Wood The hard, fibrous inner part of tree trunks, branches and stems. A source of timber. 256 78 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document Appendix 1: Summary of indicators 1. Conservation of biological diversity Category1 1.1 Ecosystem diversity 1.1a Area of forest by type and tenure A i) Percentage of tree species (Ecological Vegetation Class and species group) by age class and site A quality 1.1b Area of forest type by growth stage B i) Area of old growth forest, by type, distributed across the Forest Management Area A ii) Area and percentage of old growth harvested annually A iii) Area and percentage of old growth impacted by natural processes annually (e.g. wildfire, A insect attack) iv) Area recruited for future old growth (areas of regrowth protected from anthropogenic A disturbances – age distribution) 1.1c Area of forest type by growth stage distribution in protected zones A i) Area of forest, by type and age class in Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative (CAR) A reserve areas ii) Range of sizes and average size of CAR reserve areas for each forest type A iii) Number of outstanding or unique biological, zoological, geological, and paleontological A features in protected areas iv) Area of forest available for timber harvesting in relation to area of forest in CAR reserve areas A v) Area of forest types with significantly reduced area B 1.1d Fragmentation of native forest cover B i) Connectivity between areas with similar habitat types C ii) Area of forest permanently converted to non-forest A 1.2 Species diversity 1.2a The status of forest dependent species at risk of not maintaining viable breeding A populations, as determined by legislation or scientific assessment i) Percentage of high priority actions at high priority locations successfully implemented annually A for threatened species and communities ii) Percentage of high priority threatened species populations with positive trends for a) B population, b) habitat and c) risk iii) Percentage of high priority occurrences of threatened communities with positive trends for a) B extent and condition, b) physical environment and c) risk iv) Percentage change in the number of forest dependent species classified as vulnerable, A threatened or endangered 1.2b Area of habitat available for forest dependent indicator species A i) Areas of high, medium, and low habitat (quality) for indicator species B ii) Distribution of selected habitat elements by catchment over time B 1.2c Representative indicator species from a range of habitats monitored at scales relevant to B regional forest management i) Population levels of selected forest dependent species B ii) Number of forest dependent species that occupy a small portion of their former range A iii) Percentage of original range occupied by selected rare, threatened, endangered, or indicator B species 1.2d Degree of disturbance to native forest species caused by invasive species B i) Number of invasive, exotic forest-associated species A ii) location and dispersal of introduced species B iii) Changes in abundance and distribution of native species known to be susceptible to such B disturbance 1.3 Genetic diversity 1.3a The number of forest dependent species at risk from isolation that may lead to loss of C genetic variation i) The number of seed-lot provenances used in regeneration, reforestation, roading and A stabilisation works that meet Code requirements 1.3b Number of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts for forest dependent species C i) Change in the area of gene protection forests B ii) Changes in genetic diversity and structure within populations, and gene flow, for selected C species 257 79 Appendix 1 2. Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystems Category1 2.1 Area and percentage of forest and net area of forest available and suitable for timber A production i) Additions and deletions of forest area, by cause and by forest type B ii) Forest area (ha) reserved by special management regime (e.g. for conservation of powerful A owls, baw baw frog, or water quality) iii) Loss of forest area to roads and other developments (e.g. quarries) A iv) Area (ha) removed due to site being inoperable or uneconomical (e.g. due to slope and other A Code exclusions) 2.2 Volume of wood by forest type in State forest that is available and suitable for timber A production i) Total volume of wood and area of non-merchantable forest B ii) Total volume of wood and area of merchantable forest A iii) Area (ha) of available forest that is managed intensively A 2.3 Annual production of wood products from State forest compared to sustainable harvest A levels i) Annual volume (cubic metres) harvested from State forest by broad forest type A ii) Area harvested compared to sustainable harvest level (ha) by broad forest type A iii) Actual annual harvest of minor wood products compared to sustainable harvest level B iv) Area and volume by silvicultural treatment type (clearfell, thinning, salvage, selective) A v) Volume of wood removed by ecological processes B 2.4 Annual production of non-wood forest products A i) Carrying capacity of the system for economically important species/products C ii) Non-wood products produced annually from State forests A 2.5 Proportion of timber harvest area successfully regenerated by forest type A i) Area not meeting stocking standards A 3. Maintenance of ecosystem health and vitality Category1 3.1 Scale and impact of agents and processes affecting forest health and vitality B i) Area of forest damage, by age class and forest type, caused by extreme weather including B wind, rainfall, snow, drought and frost ii) Area of State forest burnt, by forest type and age class annually A iii) Area of forest burnt for ecological management purposes on an annual basis A iv) Area and percentage of regenerated coupes affected by browsing or other damage processes B (e.g. drought, frost, etc.) v) Annual quantity (tonnes) of pesticide or herbicide used to control damage agents A vi) Area and percentage of forested land subject to levels of specific air pollutants (e.g. ozone, B nitrates) that may cause negative impacts on forest ecosystems vii) Area of forest damage, by age class and forest type, caused by insects and pathogens B 3.2 Area and type of human-induced disturbance A i) Harvested area by silvicultural system and forest type, and percentage of total forest area A ii) Regeneration area and percentage change in the composition of the disturbed area B iii) Area of forest and percentage of total forest area covered by grazing licences by forest type B iv) Area of prescribed burning (e.g. fuel reduction, regeneration, ecological) undertaken on State A forest and percentage of total forest area v) Area and percentage of forest thinned by age and forest type A vi) Impact of other human induced disturbances (e.g. mining, infrastructure and recreation) B 4. Conservation and maintenance of soil and water resources Category1 4.1 Area and percentage of forest by activity type systematically assessed for risk to soil B attributes i) Soil erosion B ii) Change in nutrient status C iii) Biological composition/activity C iv) Structural decline (compaction) B 4.2 Change in forested catchment water yield characteristics through time B 4.3 Change in forested catchment river health characteristics through time B i) Percentage compliance with locally applicable road construction, stream crossing and riparian A zone management standards ii) Percentage to which forest operations have been systematically assessed for risk to water B quality iii) Percentage to which the application of chemicals has been systematically assessed for risk to A water quality iv) Index of Stream Condition A v) Water quality attainment ratings in each Catchment Management Authority region A 258 80 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document 5. Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles Category1 5.1 Total forest ecosystem biomass and carbon pool by forest type, age class, and B successional stages i) Mean Annual Increment by forest type and age class A ii) Tree biomass volumes B iii) Non-tree biomass volumes C iv) Soil carbon pools C v) Removals (fire and harvesting) A vi) Net change in forest products carbon C 5.2 Contribution of forest ecosystems to the global greenhouse gas balance B i) Estimated tonnes of greenhouse gas uptake or release by forest type and age class (report B separate subtotals for CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs and SF6 in tonnes) ii) Fuel consumption for timber harvesting (per m3 of product) compared with average fuel B consumption for agricultural, manufacturing and retail sectors iii) Use and emissions of ozone-depleting substances (in tonnes of CFC –11 equivalents) C 6. Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic Category1 benefits to meet the needs of societies 6.1 Production and consumption 6.1a Value ($) of wood and wood products B i) Value of primary timber products to the Gross State Product A ii) Value of secondary timber products per volume/unit harvested B iii) Production, consumption, imports, and exports of timber products B iv) Timber price trend A v) Victoria’s share in all forest products markets (percentage) B 6.1b Value ($) and yield of non-wood forest products B i) Contribution of non-timber forest products to the Gross State Product B ii) Production, consumption, imports and exports of non-timber forest products C iii) Value by type of non-wood forest products (m3, kg) A 6.1c Value ($) of forest derived ecosystem services C i) Cost ($) per megalitre of water from forested catchments C 6.1d Degree of reuse and recycling of wood products B 6.2 Investment in the forest sector 6.2a Investment and expenditure in forest management A i) Investment by Government in forest management as a percentage of Gross State Product B ii) Average expenditure in forest asset protection (e.g. prescribed fire) A iii) Expenditure on forest infrastructure (e.g. roads, bridges, fire towers) A 6.2b Investment in research and development, and education A i) Number of forestry professionals with recognised qualifications in natural resource B management or forest science working in forest management ii) Investment ($) in forest management research and development by government and A percentage of forest management funding over time iii) Investment ($) in forest-related community and public education programs by government, A and the number of programs initiated annually 6.2c Extension and use of new and improved technologies A 6.3 Recreation and tourism 6.3a Area and quality of forest actively utilised for recreation and tourism A i) Economic contribution of forests to the tourism sector (local and State) B ii) Cost of maintenance activities in recreation and tourism areas B iii) level of visitor satisfaction C 6.3b Range and use of recreation and tourism opportunities that are available within forests A 6.3c Number of visits per annum B 6.4 Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural, social, and spiritual needs and values 6.4a Area of forest to which Indigenous people have access and rights that protect their A cultural heritage and are recognised through formal and informal management regimes 259 81 Appendix 1 6.4b Proportion of places of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural values in forests A formally managed to protect those values i) Number of Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff with specialist cultural heritage management A skills ii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places with agreed conservation A management plans iii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places presented or interpreted to A the public iv) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places disturbed as a result of B forest or fire management operations v) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places where active conservation A works have been completed vi) Number of new places added to the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register and the Historic A Places database; or number of existing records that have been updated or reviewed vii) Proportion of Aboriginal cultural heritage places and historic places with an active monitoring A program 6.5 Employment and community needs 6.5a Direct and indirect employment in the forest sector and forest sector employment as a B proportion of total employment i) Total Full Time Equivalent and number of jobs indirectly and directly employed in the forest B sector ii) Age and gender profile of employment in the forestry sector C iii) Gender and age related indices for staff involved in forest management (Victorian Government A forest management agencies) iv) Percentage of Aboriginal people employed in forest management (Victorian Government A forest management agencies) in comparison to non-Indigenous people 6.5b Average wage rates and injury rates in major employment categories within the forest B sector i) Number of accidents and injury rates by forest sector category A ii) Standard injury, days lost, absentee rates and numbers of work-related fatalities (including A subcontracted workers) 6.5c Resilience of forest dependent communities to changing social and economic conditions B i) Contracts ($ total) paid to local enterprise (including Department of Sustainability and B Environment contracts) ii) Migration history, likelihood of future migration B 6.5d Resilience of forest dependent Indigenous communities to changing social and economic B conditions i) Number and type of tenures offered to Indigenous peoples A ii) Aboriginal employment A 6.5e Area of forest available and accessible for Indigenous people to exercise their inherent B rights to meet subsistence or individual and family cultural and spiritual needs i) Area available for subsistence purposes A ii) Area available for continued cultural use B iii) Area available for continued resource use B iv) Areas where Indigenous partnerships are being practiced A 6.6 Indigenous participation 6.6a Extent to which the management framework includes the exercise of customary, A custodial, traditional and native title rights as an essential component in achieving sustainable forest management i) Research partnerships B ii) Extent of incorporation of Indigenous knowledge in cultural inventories B iii) level of Indigenous participation and/or consultation A iv) Indigenous information sharing and referrals program B 260 82 criteria and indicators for sustainable forest managment in Victoria – guidance document 7. Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and Category1 sustainable management 7.1 Extent to which the legal framework (laws, regulations, guidelines) supports the A conservation and sustainable management of forests 7.1.1 Clarifies Indigenous and non-Indigenous property rights A i) Provides for appropriate land tenure arrangements A ii) Recognises and protects the inherent cultural heritage rights of Indigenous peoples B iii) level of Aboriginal satisfaction with involvement in developing policy, legislation, and C agreements related to forest management iv) Extent or proportion of forest practices that incorporate Traditional Ecological Knowledge C 7.1.2 Provides for periodic forest-related planning, assessment, and policy review that recognise A the range of forest values, including coordination with relevant sectors 7.1.3 Provides opportunities for public participation in public policy and decision-making related A to forests and public access to information 7.1.4 Encourages the development and application of best practice codes and systems for forest A management 7.2 Extent to which the institutional framework supports the conservation and sustainable A management of forests 7.2.1 Provide for public involvement activities and public education, awareness and extension A programs, and make available forest-related information 7.2.2 Undertake and implement periodic forest-related planning, assessment, and policy review, A including cross-sectoral planning and coordination 7.2.3 Develop and maintain human resource skills across relevant disciplines B 7.2.4 Develop and maintain efficient physical infrastructure to facilitate the supply of forest A products and services, and support forest management 7.2.5 Enforce laws, regulations and guidelines A i) Rate of compliance with sustainable forest management laws, regulations, and best A management practices ii) Incidents of, and fines for, non-compliance with all applicable international declarations/ A conventions/treaties and national, sub-national, regional, and local regulations associated with environmental regulations 7.3 Extent to which the economic framework supports the conservation and sustainable B management of forests 7.3.1 Investment and taxation policies and a regulatory environment which recognise the long- B term nature of investments and permit the flow of capital in and out of the forest sector in response to market signals, non-market economic valuations, and public policy decisions in order to meet long-term demands for forest products and services 7.4 Capacity to measure and monitor changes in the conservation and sustainable A management of forests 7.4.1 Coverage, currency and frequency of data and other information that is important for A measuring or describing indicators associated with Criteria 1 to 7 7.5 Capacity to conduct and apply research and development aimed at improving forest A management, including development of scientific understanding of forest ecosystem characteristics and functions i) Number of sustainable forest management related research projects underway and/or A completed on forest management or ecosystem processes ii) Number of applied social and natural science research projects which address issues of local B and regional significance 1Category A: Indicators that can be reported against immediately for many areas of Victoria’s forest. In these cases, information is already available and/or being collected; Category B: Indicators that can be measured for some areas of forest, but where there remains a methodological or resourcing issue; and Category C: Indicators where significant research and development is required to assess if there is a practical, sensitive and cost-effective means of implementation. 261 83 www.dse.vic.gov.au/sfm 262 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant VICFORESTS Respondent ANNEXURE 6 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS Approved conservation advice for Leadbeater’s Possum 2015 Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053 263 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Conservation Advice Gymnobelideus leadbeateri Leadbeater’s possum Taxonomy Conventionally accepted as Gymnobelideus leadbeateri McCoy, 1867 (Leadbeater’s possum). Conservation status – Critically Endangered (Criterion 1:A2(c), A3(c)) Leadbeater’s possum has been found to be eligible for listing under the following categories: Criterion 1: A2 (c), A3(c): Critically Endangered Criterion 2: B2 (a)(b)(iii)(iv)(v); Endangered Criterion 3: B (a)(b)(iii)(iv)(v); Endangered Criterion 5: (c); Vulnerable The highest category for which Leadbeater’s possum is eligible to be listed is Critically Endangered. Species can be listed as threatened under state and territory legislation. For information on the listing status of this species under relevant state or territory legislation, see http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl Reason for conservation assessment by the Threatened Species Scientific Committee This is a revised listing assessment for Leadbeater’s possum. The species was listed as endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) in 2000. This advice follows assessment of new information provided by public nomination to up-list Leadbeater’s possum to the critically endangered category. Description Leadbeater’s possum is a small, nocturnal, arboreal possum. It has a prominent dark brown stripe along its back and is pale underneath. Its ears are thin, large and rounded and it grows up to 17 cm in length. Its thick tail grows to 18 cm in length (Cronin, 1991; Strahan, 1998). Cultural Significance Leadbeater’s possum is the faunal emblem of the state of Victoria. Distribution Leadbeater’s possum is endemic to Victoria. Genetic work indicates that Leadbeater’s possum consists of two genetically-distinct subpopulations that have historically occupied different habitats (Hansen, 2008). An outlier ‘lowland population’ is located at Cockatoo Swamp near Yellingbo (Smales, 1994) within 181 ha of lowland floodplain forest where less than 20 hectares provides suitable habitat (D. Harley 2014, pers. comm., cited in DEPI, 2014). The small subpopulation is a surviving remnant of a lowland subpopulation that has historically been, and remains, isolated from others (Hansen, 2008). The Yellingbo population occurs at 110 m elevation (Harley, 2004a). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 1 of 53 264 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. The core location of the species is an area of approximately 70 x 80 km in the Central Highlands of Victoria at altitudes between 400–1,200 m above sea level (Lindenmayer et al., 1989) where it is patchily distributed (Macfarlane et al., 1997) and occupies alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising Eucalyptus regnans (mountain ash), Eucalyptus delegatensis (alpine ash), Eucalyptus nitens (shining gum) and Eucalyptus camphora (snow gum). Prior to the 2009 fires, the greatest numbers were considered to occur in montane ash forests, and subalpine woodlands including at Lake Mountain, Mt Bullfight, and Mt Baw Baw. Fossils and historical records indicate that the species was more widely distributed in the past than the present (Lindenmayer et al., 1993c; Bilney et al., 2010). It was once distributed from Mt Willis in north-eastern Victoria to the Yarra Valley near Melbourne, and south to the Westernport region (DEPI, 2014). Leadbeater’s possum has always been considered a rare species (Smith, 1984) and the scarcity of specimens, together with the clearing in the late 1800s of areas thought to be its only habitat, led to the belief that the species was extinct (Rawlinson and Brown, 1977; Smith 1984). Specimens were collected after the 1960s in new localities in the Central Highlands (Wilkinson, 1961; Rawlinson and Brown, 1977). Occupancy modelling following the 2009 fires predicts current strongholds mainly in the south of the Central Highlands, including the Baw Baw Plateau and its southern slopes, the Toorongo Plateau south of the Upper Yalla Catchment and state forest in the vicinity of Powelltown, parts of Toolangi State Forest and southern parts of the Upper Yarra National Park (Lumsden et al., 2013). Relevant Biology/Ecology Leadbeater’s possums live in small groups of between two to twelve individuals containing one breeding pair, and shelter in tree hollows during the day (Lindenmayer, 1996a). Colonies live in territories that contain multiple den sites (Lindenmayer and Meggs, 1996). Female dispersal is greater than male dispersal (Smith, 1984) and females are subject to higher rates of mortality. Among young adults, males outnumber females by three to one (Lindenmayer, 1996a) and the general adult population is thought to have a sex ratio approaching 3:1 (Smith, 1984). Breeding is limited by the number of mature females (Lindenmayer, 1996a). Observations of mating behaviour in captivity suggest that Leadbeater’s possum is strictly monogamous, that only one adult male per colony is reproductively active (Smith, 1984) and colonies typically contain only a single adult female (Smith, 1984; Harley and Lill, 2007), although other studies have found colonies with two breeding females (Lindenmayer and Meggs, 1996). Breeding females reproduce twice per year and mean litter size is approximately 1.5 (Smith, 1984; Harley and Lill, 2007). Adult longevity is approximately ten years and age at first breeding is typically two years (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995b; Lindenmayer et al., 1993b). Generation length ([longevity + age at maturity]/2) for Leadbeater’s possum is six years. Leadbeater’s possum habitat is usually defined as montane ash forest dominated by mountain ash, alpine ash and shining gum with a dense understorey of Acacia and an abundance of large hollow-bearing trees. The species also inhabits sub-alpine woodland dominated by snow gum containing a dense midstory of mountain tea tree (Leptospermum grandiflorum) along drainage lines (Jelinek et al., 1995) or forest dominated by mountain swamp gum (Eucalyptus camphora) with a dense midstory of Melaleuca and Leptospermum species (Smales, 1994). Colonies live in territories of 1–3 ha that contain multiple den sites and are actively defended from neighbouring colonies (Lindenmayer and Meggs, 1996). Leadbeater's possum is typically sedentary and territorial, with resident animals travelling between den trees and feeding areas, or between alternative den trees (Lindenmayer and Meggs, 1996; Smith, 1984) with the distance between a set of nest sites used by a colony possibly exceeding 100 m (Lindenmayer and Meggs, 1996). The species appears to have long-term site fidelity (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 2 of 53 265 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Leadbeater’s possum may be a central place forager. Nest trees are spaced close to the centre of a relative exclusive home range (Smith, 1984), and linear strips of habitat (e.g., 80 m) may be insufficient for their social and dietary requirements (Lindenmayer et al., 1993d). Leadbeater’s possums feed on carbohydrate-rich plant and insect secretions (e.g. sap, manna, honeydew) and invertebrates (Smith, 1980; 1984). In montane ash forest, the species has been recorded incising acacias and feeding on the gum that exudes into the wound (Smith, 1980). Smith (1980) also highlights the dietary importance of an undescribed species of tree cricket. Paperbarks and tea trees may also be incised in lowland swamp forest. Tree hollows are a critical resource for Leadbeater’s possum and the species’ abundance is positively correlated with hollow availability (Lindenmayer et al., 1991b). The majority of trees occupied by Leadbeater’s possum are dead hollow-bearing trees. Living hollow-bearing trees are also used and become the next cohort of dead hollow-bearing trees in the future (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). Leadbeater’s possum rarely descends to the ground and is highly reliant upon dense, continuous vegetation with interconnecting lateral branches and/or high stem density (Lindenmayer, 1996a). The key attributes of Leadbeater’s possum across all forest types (LPAG, 2013) are: Hollow-bearing trees (for nest sites and refuge) with large internal dimensions in the order of 30 cm in diameter are a critical habitat feature for Leadbeater’s possums (LPAG, 2013), particularly and almost exclusively large old trees (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Density of hollow-bearing trees is recognised as a critical habitat feature (e.g., DEPI, 2014). There are strong and quantified links between the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 1991b; Lindenmayer et al., 2013b; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a), with nest hollow availability the limiting factor to population size. Density of less than one hollow-bearing tree per hectare is considered to represent ecosystem collapse for the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem (Burns et al., 2014). predominance of smooth-barked eucalypts (with loose bark hanging in strips providing shelter for insect prey and material for nests) or gum-barked eucalypts (related to foraging behaviour) (Lindenmayer, 1996a; Harley, 2004a;b;c). Forest types of Leadbeater’s possum are most commonly ash forest typically dominated by mountain ash, alpine ash and shining gum but it is also known to occur in subalpine woodlands and lowland swamp forest dominated by snow gum or mountain swamp gum (Smith and Hartley, 2008) a structurally dense interlocking canopy or secondary tree layer of continuous interconnecting structure (to facilitate movement) (Lindenmayer, 1996a; Harley, 2004a;b;c), and a wattle understory (providing food) (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988; Menkhorst and Lumsden, 1995; DSE, 2013). Habitat considered most likely to be currently occupied by Leadbeater’s possums is characterised by lush, unburnt vegetation in gullies, located in areas that have relatively low summer temperatures and high summer rainfall (Lumsden et al., 2013). An optimum habitat is an uneven-aged ash forest with a dense understory of wattle trees and a supply of hollow- bearing trees of between 4.2 – 10 per 3 ha (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988). Leadbeater’s possums appear to have critical minimum habitat size of around 12 ha (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014b). Leadbeater’s possums do not occur on burned sites, including those subject to low and moderate severity fire, clearfell logged, or regenerated montane ash forest where hollow-bearing trees are largely absent (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a) until required conditions have returned. Habitat of the lowland population is different to that throughout the possum’s core range of montane ash forest (Harley et al., 2005). The lowland population occupies lowland swamp forest of varied densities of mountain swamp gum with Melaleuca spp or Leptospermum spp in the Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 3 of 53 266 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. middle-story. Densities of Leadbeater’s possum are highest in young (e.g., 20–40 years old) stands of forest supporting high stem density. Like the montane population, the lowland population habitat has a predominance of smooth-barked eucalypts (that provide exudates from the trunks), hollow-bearing trees (that provide den sites) and highly-connected in the middle- story or canopy (Harley et al., 2005). Given the genetic distinction of this population, its gene pool may include genes involved in adaptation to a lowland swamp environment, adding to the conservation importance of this population. Threats The primary threats to Leadbeater’s possum are habitat loss and ongoing deterioration of habitat quality including loss of vegetation type and structure. These threats result in a loss in the species’ ability to shelter, breed, disperse, and feed. This situation has resulted in immediate population decline as well as ongoing decline in reproduction rates. Loss of habitat quality has resulted in complete abandonment of habitat in some instances, or reduction in population size and reproduction rate (e.g., at Yellingbo during the past nine years). The loss of habitat and loss in habitat quality have occurred and continue to occur through a number of causes: Loss through fire Fire results in: direct mortality of Leadbeater’s possums loss of habitat (extent and fragmentation). Leadbeater’s possum is absent from sites burnt in the 2009 fires regardless of fire severity (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a, b) with 36 per cent of the potential ash forest habitat burnt in 2009 (Lumsden et al., 2013) (or 35 per cent (LPAG, 2013), and loss of habitat quality. Fire is the primary form of natural disturbance in mountain ash forest. Prior to European settlement the fire regime was less frequent than at present, and occurred in late summer (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b). Many major fires have occurred in the Central Highlands over the past 400 years, the largest and most extensive known are the 1939 ‘Black Friday’ fires which burnt over 1.5 million hectares state-wide, including much of the area of Leadbeater’s possum habitat (Lindenmayer and Ough, 2006; DSE, 2008). Lumsden et al. (2013) and LPAG (2013) note that over the last century, bushfires have occurred in the Central Highlands on average every ten years, and that the frequency and intensity of wildfires are likely to increase under climate change scenarios, which predict increased rates of extreme climatic events (Lumsden et al., 2013). The last decade has seen a significant and measurable increase in the number, intensity and area burnt by bushfires and projections suggest that this will continue to escalate (DSE, 2008). Of the 195,000 ha of ash forest and snow gum woodlands considered to be potential habitat of Leadbeater’s possum at 2009, 68,000 ha (35 per cent) was burnt in 2009 (LPAG, 2013) and 45 per cent of the best Leadbeater’s possum habitat within montane ash forest (Lumsden et al., 2013). Of the three sub-alpine sites where Leadbeater’s possum have been monitored – Lake Mountain, Mt Bullfight and Mt Baw Baw; Lake Mountain and Mt Bullfight were burnt in 2009. The Lake Mountain site was thought to contain up to 300 individual Leadbeater’s possums prior to the 2009 fires, with only four individuals recorded since (Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data cited in Harley and Lindenmayer pers. comm., 2013). Surveys at Mt Bullfight indicate that the population supports fewer than 50 individuals following the 2009 fires (Harley and Lindenmayer pers. comm., 2013) Low intensity fire can stimulate some regeneration but may not kill all over-story trees, resulting in multi-aged stands. In severe, high intensity wildfires, almost all the over-story trees may be Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 4 of 53 267 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. killed, but seeds are released that germinate as a uniform regenerating cohort. Fire in an old growth forest will produce a pulse of large dead trees and fire scarred living old trees that can provide nesting habitat for cavity-dependent species such as Leadbeater’s possum (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b). Wattle in the understory provides food for Leadbeater’s possums. Wattles age and decline over more than 50 years after fire. Bushfire usually kills wattle, but promotes regeneration of this foraging habitat, which forms suitable substrate within 20 years of fire (LPAG, 2013). While fire may promote the capacity for older trees to form hollows from fire scarring, young trees do not stand long after they are burned and are not able to form cavities for nesting (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b). It is estimated that old-growth or multi-aged mountain ash forest comprised 30–60 per cent of the current ash forest estate in the Central Highlands of Victoria prior to European settlement. Old grown ash forest now comprises 1.15 per cent of this mountain ash forest estate (Lindenmayer et al., 2011; Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). Large areas of the forest estate are regrowth forest with small areas of old forest embedded within them (Lindenmayer et al., 2011). When the interval between fires is less than that required for stands to reach reproductive maturity (approximately 20 years), mountain ash will be replaced with other species with shorter reproductive periods such as wattle (Lindenmayer et al., 2011). The ‘Black Saturday’ fires in 2009 fires burnt 45 per cent of the best Leadbeater’s possum habitat within montane ash forest (Lumsden et al., 2013). Post-fire, the species has not been detected at burned sites regardless of fire severity (Lumsden et al., 2013). The threat of another wildfire, even if it is small in scale, is a threat to this species’ persistence (VicForests pers. comm., 2014). Leadbeaters’ possum are less abundant on unburned sites where the surrounding landscape has been burned, and suggest a greater level of decline after fire than previously recognised (Lindenmayer et al., 2013c). Young forest burns at higher severity than mature forest (Lindenmayer et al., 2011). Lindenmayer et al. (2011) outline a number of reasons for this, including increased density of regrowth saplings, lower canopies and therefore lower fuel height for flames, closely spaced tree crowns, the potential for reduced soil and moisture holding capacity of undergrowth, and propose that a landscape fire-trap develops because of the interacting effects of wildfire, logging and the combination of these. Taylor et al. (2014) also found a strong relationship between the age of mountain ash forest and the severity of fire damage, with a higher frequency of high- severity impacts occurring in stands of trees less than seven or greater than 40 years. Attiwill et al. (2013), however, found no support for increased fire severity in younger age class forests from the 2009 fires in the Central Highlands. They note that the largest of these fires (at East Kilmore–Murrindindi, which burnt 100,000 ha) was not consistently greater or lesser in older regeneration than in the most recent regeneration, and that greatest fire severity (measured by crown burn) occurred in the intermediate age classes. Burned forests are subject to post-fire salvage logging. Salvage logging resembles clearfelling but in the reverse order: the forest is initially burned by unplanned fires and fire damaged stands are then clearfelled with merchantable timber removed. In some cases regeneration burns or mechanical site-preparation methods are used to re-establish eucalypt stands (Lindenmayer and Ough, 2006). The impact of this process is similar to clearfelling, because it involves clearfelling (Lindenmayer and Ough, 2006). Burned hollow-bearing trees in stands subject to salvage logging are exempt from cutting, however their collapse rates are higher because they are subject to increased exposure (Lindenmayer and Ough, 2006). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 5 of 53 268 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Fire is also involved in the process of clearfell harvesting. Following clear cutting, logging debris is burned to create a bed of ashes in which the regeneration of a new eucalypt stand takes place (Lindenmayer et al., 2011; Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). Loss through harvesting and lack of habitat quality in regrowth forest In the past 40 years, the usual method of logging has been clear-felling (Lindenmayer et al., 2011) and is currently the conventional form of logging in Victorian mountain ash forests (DSE, 2006). Clear-felling is a method of harvesting a coupe in which all merchantable trees, apart from those to be retained for wildlife habitat, are removed in a single operation. In the Central Highlands, harvesting predominantly involves clearfelling in coupes averaging 16.5 hectares (Attiwell et al., 2013). A ‘regeneration’ or ‘slash burn’ fire is then usually undertaken of the debris (logging slash) before sowing takes place (DSE, 2006; Attiwell et al., 2013). Hollow-bearing trees retained for ‘wildlife habitat’ are of little immediate habitat value to Leadbeater’s possum when there is no surrounding foraging habitat, but may be used when surrounding foraging habitat vegetation and structure is regrown (i.e. 20 years (LPAG, 2013)). Vegetation clearance results in an expected direct mortality of Leadbeater’s possums and loss of habitat (extent and fragmentation). Leadbeater’s possum does not occur in clearfell logged and regenerated montane ash forest where hollow-bearing trees are largely absent (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). 42,685 hectares of montane ash forest in the Central Highlands has been logged in the past 40 years, including approximately 19,338 hectares since late 1997 Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). Old-growth ash forest is prime habitat for Leadbeater’s possum. It is estimated that old-growth or multi-aged mountain ash forest comprised 30–60 per cent of the current ash forest estate in the Central Highlands of Victoria prior to European settlement. Old growth ash forest now comprises 1.15 per cent of this mountain ash forest estate (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). The dominant eucalypts in montane ash forest do not begin to form hollows until trees are 120 years old (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b) and do not develop hollows suitable for Leadbeater’s possum until trees attain 190 years of age (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988). In many areas, standing dead trees have provided the majority of dens for Leadbeater’s possums (Lindenmayer et al., 1991b). However, these trees are subject to a high rate of collapse resulting from natural decay (Lindenmayer et al., 1997; 2012). While loss of hollows due to decay is a natural process, hollows have been and are currently being lost at a greater rate than they are formed due to a reduction in equivalent replacement as a result of clearfelling, fire, and in some cases, altered succession (e.g., Yellingbo). Short-term intervals between fire events and timber harvesting on short rotation cycles do not provide for formation of replacement hollows (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995a; 1995b; 1996). As a consequence, the availability of suitable hollows for denning is a limiting factor across much of the range of Leadbeater’s possum (Lindenmayer et al., 1997; 2012). In areas of regrowth, for instance in areas burnt during fires in 1930s, trees may not develop hollows suitable for Leadbeater’s possums for more than a century (Lindenmayer et al., 1993a,b). Clearfell logging on 80–120 year rotations means that large old trees never develop on logged and regenerated sites. Selective clearfelling removes targeted existing large trees (including nest hollows), but also accelerates the decay and collapse of non-targeted hollow bearing trees, (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b). The rate of tree fall exceeds recruitment of new hollow-bearing trees within montane ash forests (Lindenmayer et al., 1997). The impacts of fire go beyond the areas directly burned. Hollow-bearing trees adjacent to areas of logged forest have been found to suffer from accelerated rates of collapse (Lindenmayer et al., 1997). In existing forests, the quality of Leadbeater’s possum habitat may be reduced by: Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 6 of 53 269 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. loss of hollow bearing trees without equivalent replacement hollows as a result of earlier harvesting; habitat fragmentation as a result of timber harvesting or fire, altered habitat structure due to altered fire regimes, harvesting regimes or altered hydrology. Loss of habitat quality – other causes Loss of habitat quality has resulted in complete abandonment of habitat in some instances, or reduction in population size and reproduction rate (e.g., at Yellingbo during the past nine years). The Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve population of Leadbeater’s possum is genetically distinct from the remaining Leadbeater’s possums (Hansen, 2008). It occurs in mountain swamp gum dominated forest with a dense midstory of Melaleuca and Leptospermum species (Smales, 1994). This habitat is subject to ongoing quality decline of eucalypt dieback and reduced regeneration, resulting in an altered, more open forest structure. The major cause of this change is thought to be a result of altered hydrology of the Cockatoo Creek floodplain (Harley and Antrobus, 2007). There is currently estimated to be less than 20 ha of high quality habitat available at Yellingbo. In 2007, an assessment across the reserve indicated that vegetation dieback was present at more than 40 per cent of sites (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013). Habitat deterioration has resulted in the abandonment of 46 per cent of active territories at Yellingbo during the past nine years (Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data cited in Harley and Lindenmayer pers. comm., 2013). Molecular analyses also indicate that the habitat decline has resulted in population fragmentation within the reserve (Hansen, 2008). Population monitoring of the lowland population of Leadbeater’ possum has been conducted at Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve since 1996. Data collected between 1995 and 2004 indicated that the size of the population was stable at 80–100 individuals (Harley et al., 2005). The number of individuals recorded peaked to 112 at 2003. At 2012 the number had dropped to 60 individuals (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013). Recent reports are that the population has declined to only 42 individuals in 2013 (Arup and Smith, 2013) and in 2014 only 40 individuals (Smith, 2014). How judged by the Committee in relation to the EPBC Act Criteria and Regulations The Committee notes it is not necessary to identify a quantitative risk of extinction, but it is important to ensure that judgements about the criteria (for example, whether a reduction in numbers represents a severe decline) are made in the context of risk of extinction. When assessing a species’ eligibility against the listing criteria, the Committee exercises its judgement to give practical meaning to the subjective terms of the criteria, by considering information in the context of the species’ biology and relevant ecological factors, and having regard to the degree of complexity and uncertainty associated with that context and the information provided. The Committee is informed, but not bound by, indicative thresholds. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 7 of 53 270 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Criterion 1: Reduction in numbers (based on any of A1 – A4) A1. An observed, estimated, inferred or suspected population very severe 90%, severe 70% substantial 50% size reduction over the last 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer, where the causes of the reduction are clearly reversible AND understood AND ceased, based on (and specifying) any of the following: (a) direct observation (b) an index of abundance appropriate to the taxon (c) a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat (d) actual or potential levels of exploitation (e) the effects of introduced taxa, hybridization, pathogens, pollutants, competitors or parasites. A2. An observed, estimated, inferred or suspected population very severe 80%, severe 50% substantial 30% size reduction over the last 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer, where the reduction or its causes may not have ceased OR may not be understood OR may not be reversible, based on (and specifying) any of (a) to (e) under A1. A3. A population size reduction very severe 80%, severe 50% substantial 30%, projected or suspected to be met within the next 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer (up to a maximum of 100 years), based on (and specifying) any of (b) to (e) under A1. A4. An observed, estimated, inferred, projected or suspected population size reduction very severe 80%, severe 50% substantial 30% over any 10 year or three generation period, whichever is longer (up to a maximum of 100 years in the future), where the time period must include both the past and the future, and where the reduction or its causes may not have ceased OR may not be understood OR may not be reversible, based on (and specifying) any of (a) to (e) under A1. Criterion 1 establishes trend through estimates of quantitative change by comparing a baseline of a variable to the same variable over the period of time of three generations lengths. The comparison provides for an estimated decline over time. The time of comparison varies among the four options of this criterion with A1 and A2 including the past, A3 the future, and A4 the past to the future. Within each of these, decline may be observed, estimated, inferred or suspected for population size based on any one variable described in (a) – (e). Eligible for listing as Critically Endangered (based on A2(c), A3(c)) Evidence: The period of time over which decline is considered (three generation lengths) for Leadbeater’s possum is 18 years. Application of A1–A4 for Leadbeater’s possum: Causes of population reduction in Leadbeater’s possum have not ceased and may not be reversible. Therefore A1 is not applicable and the Committee will consider has therefore considered declines only within the options described under A2, A3 and A4. Under these, thresholds for population size reduction of very severe 80%, severe 50% or substantial 30% are applicable and these thresholds equate to listing categories of critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable respectively. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 8 of 53 271 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Application of (a)–(e) for Leadbeater’s possum: The variables that can be considered in Criterion 1 for population size reduction include direct observation (a) (not applicable for A3) and index of abundance (b); area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat (c); levels of exploitation (d); or effects of an introduced biological threat (e). While there are estimates of current numbers of individuals of Leadbeater’s possum for the whole species (e.g., LPAG, 2013; Lindenmayer et al., pers comm., 2014a, see also Criterion 3), the methodology used for these estimates cannot be applied to the past to provide baseline numbers for comparison of change resulting in a quantitative threshold. While there are instances of numbers of individuals in specific locations declining over time (e.g., Yellingbo, Mt Bullfight, Lake Mountain) and these indicate decline in the species at these locations, they do not provide for quantitative estimates of decline for the whole species. There are therefore inadequate data to provide for quantitative levels of declines over time for the whole species using ‘direct observation’ (a) and ‘index of abundance’ (b) for population size for this criterion. There are no data to provide for quantitative declines for Leadbeater’s possum based on (d) levels of exploitation, or (e) effects of an introduced threat. Analyses for Leadbeater’s possum under Criterion 1 therefore focus on decline in Leadbeater’s possum based on decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat (c). Analyses based on (c) – decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat have be undertaken for A2 and A3. There are not adequate baseline data to provide for additional further analyses under A4. Details of these analyses are provided in Appendix 1 and are summarised below. Information sources for analyses under Criterion 1 Decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat for Leadbeater’s possum under Criterion 1 is primarily focused on three causes: decline as a result of fire, decline as a result of harvesting, primarily as clearfelling but also including thinning, and decline in habitat quality due to loss, without equivalent replacement, of hollow-bearing trees. Leadbeater’s possum is a habitat specialist, with one of the most restricted distributions of any Australian mammal (Lindenmayer, 2013). While alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum have been termed ‘potential habitat’ and ‘suitable forest’ (e.g., LPAG 2013; 2014a, b) for Leadbeater’s possum, not all of this forest is suitable habitat. Lindenmayer et al. have undertaken large scale vegetation surveys in the central highlands of Victoria since 1987 (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000). Their data layers indicate that at 1987 and 1989 montane ash forest was represented by 171,200 ha, but of this only 6.7 per cent was predicted to support suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum. Lumsden et al. (2013) also note that while there are 43,501 ha of unburnt ash forest protected in parks and reserves within the Central Highlands at 2013, not all this area is likely to be suitable and occupied by Leadbeater’s possum, with modelling based on post-2009 fire surveys estimating that the possum is likely to only occupy 15,000 ha. Loss due to future fire The last decade has seen a significant and measurable increase in the number, intensity and area burnt by bushfires. Projections suggest that this situation will continue to escalate (DSE, 2008). Wetter forests, including the Central Highlands and the Otway Ranges burn less frequently and often only following periods of extended drought. Over the last century, major fire events in the state of Victoria, including 1939 Black Friday, 1983 Ash Wednesday, 2003 Alpine Fires and the 2006/07 Great Divide Fires have occurred during extended periods of drought (DSE, 2008). Each of these fires burnt over 1 million hectares state-wide (DSE, 2008). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 9 of 53 272 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. DEPI (2013) note that bushfire risk is difficult to quantify, and where and when they will occur is largely unknown. Modelling to quantify bushfire risk across Victoria was undertaken by DEPI (2013) to develop bushfire risk mitigation strategies. The model could not incorporate risk to ecological values because sub-models that quantify bushfire effects on ecological values were not sufficiently advanced to be incorporated. As a result, estimation of risk was limited to risk to property. Results noted that bushfire risk to property varies considerably between regions. East Central, the region that includes the Central Highlands, has a significant proportion of the state’s bushfire risk to property (31 per cent). This region had a residual risk near the maximum level (100 per cent) for many years (20) prior to the 2009 bushfires, and after the 2009 fires the residual risk dropped to near 40-50 per cent as a result of the reduction in fuel loads. Residual risk, however, has rapidly increased since 2009 (modelled to be at between 70–75 per cent by 2015) even after planned burning on public land (DEPI, 2013). Lumsden et al. (2013) and LPAG (2013; 2014b) note that over the last century, bushfires have occurred in the Central Highlands on average once every ten years. As Leadbeater’s possum is confined to a relative small area, a single large fire can impact on a significant proportion of the population (LPAG, 2014b). This frequency and intensity of wildfires is likely to increase under climate change scenarios, which predict increased rates of extreme climatic events (Lumsden et al., 2013) and thereby increasing the risk to Leadbeater’s possum (LPAG, 2014b). Of the 195,000 ha of ash forest and snow gum woodlands considered to be ‘suitable forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum, 68,000 ha (35 per cent) was burnt in 2009 (LPAG, 2013), and 45 per cent of the best Leadbeater’s possum habitat within montane ash forest (Lumsden et al., 2013). A single large fire can impact on a significant proportion of the population of Leadbeater’s possum (DEPI, 2014). VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) note that the threat of another wildfire, even if it is small in scale, is a threat to this species’ persistence. Lumsden et al., (2013) note that the 2013 Aberfieldy fire could have severely affected the remaining strongholds for Leadbeater’s possum in the Baw Baw region if it had started on the western side of Thompson Dam instead of the eastern side, noting that a single fire could have had a significant impact on one of the remaining strongholds for the species. The Baw Baw Plateau was not affected by 2006/7 or 2009 fires, but is a continuous forested area and an area less than a quarter in size of that burned in the 2009 fires. This smaller size and its continuity makes it susceptible to extreme damage should a fire reach this location. A fire to the Yellingbo population would significantly reduce the genetic diversity of the species. Noting this likelihood and potential damage, Lumsden et al. (2013) incorporate future fire scenarios of 25 and 50 per cent of Leadbeater’s possum reserve system burnt by bushfire by 2020 into their modelling of population viability. They noted that if the fire was larger, for example equivalent to the 1939 fires, the impact would be even greater, and if there was more than one fire, the risks would be compounded. If we assume the prediction of one fire every ten years (following Lumsden et al., 2013; LPAG, 2013; 2014b), and these are independent events across an area, the probability of at least one fire occurring over the period 2013 to 2031 is around 85 per cent, with the potential to further reduce ash or snow gum woodland in the range of Leadbeater’s possum. The chance of more than one fire occurring is 55 per cent. The magnitude of any future fire occurring between now and 2031 and its impact on existing ash forest and Leadbeater’s possum habitat, however, is unable to be quantified. Given the likelihood of fire, but the unknown and unquantified area likely to be impacted, the Committee has considered a range of potential scenarios to determine possible impacts to area of occupancy/extent of occurrence. Scenarios include no fire, low to medium likelihood of fire impact (e.g., of 12.5 and 20 per cent), and a 50 per cent likelihood of fire impact. A 35 per cent loss from fire scenario is also included, because this is equivalent to the area lost to ash forest and snow gum woodland ‘suitable forest’ in the 2009 fires. This range of potential losses are Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 10 of 53 273 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. applied to the area estimates (to ‘predicted habitat’ and ‘suitable forest’) that remain following loss from harvest and loss of habitat quality. The Committee notes that the fire damage scenarios included in its analyses are relatively conservative, given: 34–36 per cent of potential ash forest habitat / suitable forest ash was lost in the 2009 fires (Lumsden et al., 2013; LPAG 2013; 2014a), 45 per cent of the ‘best habitat’ in the reserve system was lost during the 2009 fires (Lumsden et al., 2013; LPAG 2013), modelling of future loss to the reserve system from fire by Lumsden et al. (2013) included: fire scenarios of 25 and 50 per cent loss within a timeframe of 7 years (to 2020). The analyses of future loss from fire scenarios explored here in Criterion 1, estimate losses to the maximum of 2031 i.e., within 18 years. This approach is more conservative in terms of likelihood. The Committee notes that risk of fire occurring within an area often drops immediately following fire (e.g., as demonstrated in DEPI, 2013) and that fires are not independent events, but notes also that the impacts of fire can be cumulative within an area. The analyses provide for one fire of various magnitudes within the time periods considered, but as occurrences of fires reduce the likelihood of subsequent future occurrence (at least in the short-term), the consequence of any subsequent fire to the remaining reduced habitat is much greater. The analyses, like those of Lumsden et al. (2013), assume future fire is independent of previous fires, but the Committee notes that any subsequent fire would have compounding impact. Details of these analyses are provided in Appendix 1. This Appendix provides the detail for options considered most appropriate for the data available for Leadbeater’s possum. The analyses in Appendix 1 for Criterion 1 are limited to the subpopulation within the Central Highlands and do not include data or analysis of the remaining lowland subpopulation of Leadbeater’s possum in Yellingbo (which are currently thought to occupy as little as 50 ha (LPAG, 2013)). Analysis A2 (past 18 years from 1995) Analysis A2a provides estimates of loss of the predicted occupied habitat from 1989 to 2013 (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Suitable habitat at the baseline at 1989 is estimated to be 11,470 ha, which declines to only 2,225 ha by 2013 as a result of loss from fire, harvesting and loss in habitat quality from loss of hollow-bearing trees. This is a decline of over 80 per cent decline, which is considered to be very severe (Table 1). In this estimation of remaining suitable habitat, Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) have noted previously suitable habitat has been lost and become unsuitable through the loss of hollow-bearing trees. Where 6.7 per cent of montane ash forest was suitable in 1989, the loss of hollow-bearing trees has resulted in only 3.1 per cent being currently suitable (independent of other losses from fire and harvesting). This represents a 53.7 per cent loss of habitat from this cause, and is a complete loss of habitat use by Leadbeater’s possum (rather than a habitat quality decline where habitat may still be used but at a lower capacity than high quality habitat). It is presumed that in the remaining habitat that is used by Leadbeater’s possum, there is an additional decline in quality of a lower density of hollows. Such decline has not been included within this assessment and may, therefore, provide for an underestimation of decline. These losses are also conservative because they do not include the loss of potentially suitable habitat that occurs as narrow strips, edge effects, or the fragmentation of habitat by roads and tracks that the possum cannot cross. The Committee is uncertain about any over-estimation of loss from potential double counting (e.g., habitat lost from hollow-decline and subsequent burn). This analysis uses data from 1989 (rather than 1995) and therefore may include a degree of over estimation of loss. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 11 of 53 274 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. The Committee notes that the analysis of predicted suitable habitat overestimates loss because it considers loss over a larger time period (the baseline begins at 1989 rather than 1995), but as it does not include reduced habitat quality from loss of hollow-bearing trees, habitat lost as a result of edge effects and, loss of habitat as strips and fragmentation by roads it also underestimates loss. Analysis A2b provides estimates of loss for the much larger area of ‘suitable forest’ (from data provided by VicForests pers. comm., 2014; LPAG, 2014a) for all ash forest (comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum forests) within the home range of Leadbeater’s possum and within the Central, Dandenong and Central Gippsland Forest Management Areas. ‘Suitable forest’ at the baseline ‘since 2000’ is 204,400 ha. Two options of loss from the decline of hollow-bearing trees have been provided in the analysis, along with quantitative data on losses (in hectares) from fire and harvesting. The first option is a 22 per cent loss based on abundance at 1997 being 5.1 hollow-bearing trees per hectare to 4 per hectare in 2013 (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Using this decline of 22 per cent, the overall decline in ‘suitable forest’ from this, fire and harvesting is 44 per cent, which is considered to be substantial. The second option is a 53.7 per cent loss following that found by Lindenmayer in A2a. Using this decline, the overall loss from fire, harvesting and loss of habitat from loss of hollows is 67 per cent, which is considered to be severe (Table 1). The data for losses from harvesting and fire provided by VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) are provided ‘from 2000’. This time period is shorter than that considered for A2a and is therefore an underestimate for the 18 year time period considered for this assessment. This analysis uses data from ‘since 2000’ (rather than 1995) and therefore may include a degree of underestimation of loss. Results of A2 are shown in Table 1. Table 1. Summary outcome of assessment under A2 A2 Type Assessment Baseline area Total estimated area of period occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat decline by 2013 (a) Predicted 1989 to 2013 11,470 ha 81–83% ‘suitable habitat’ (b) ‘suitable ‘since 2000’ to 204,000 ha 44–67% forest’ 2013 The Committee notes that both analyses incorporate inaccuracies. Analysis (a) appears to have unknown degrees of overestimation (longer time period than 18 years) and underestimation (it does not include all expected losses). Analysis (b) similarly has unknown underestimation of loss as it does not include loss for the entire 18 year period. The Committee considers that predicted suitable habitat is more closely aligned with the possum’s area of occupancy. Decline in this area is a more accurate measure of likely decline in Leadbeater’s possum. The IUCN (2014) note that area of occupancy is included in the criteria in addition to extent of occurrence because it helps to identify those species that are habitat specialists (such as Leadbeater’s possum) and these species are considered to have an increased risk of extinction. It also notes that area of occupancy can be a useful proxy for population size because there is generally a positive correlation between area of occupancy and population size. Given this, the Committee considers that decline in the predicted suitable habitat is a closer approximation to decline in population size than is ‘suitable forest’ or extent of occurrence. In this instance, where there are different decline rates for these two measures, the Committee considers predicted suitable habitat to be a closer representation to decline in Leadbeater’s Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 12 of 53 275 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. possum over this time period. The Committee therefore considers that the decline of 81–83 per cent is a closer representation to decline in population size of Leadbeater’s possum over this time period, which it considers to be very severe. A3 (future 18 years to 2031) - Analysis under A3 allows for the use of current estimates of ‘suitable habitat/predicted occupied habitat’ or ‘suitable forest’, and predicts into the future. Analysis A3a and A3b provide estimates of loss from 2013 to 2031 using baselines of the predicted occupied habitat at 2013 of 2,225 ha (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a) and 15,000 ha (of Lumsden et al., 2013). Analysis A3c provides the same analysis but on ‘suitable forest’ (rather than predicted occupied habitat). Losses from predicted harvesting (with different harvesting rates) and a 63 per cent loss of quality to the remaining unharvested habitat /forest, as a result of a decline from 4 hollow-bearing trees per hectare to 1.5 hollow-bearing trees per hectare in 2035 (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a), are deducted sequentially (to prevent double counting of loss). This area also has the potential to be lost to fire in the 18 year period to 2031, although the quantities of loss are speculative. Given fire history of the region, various potential losses from fire have been included, noting these include loss scenarios less than those of Lumsden et al. (2013) and over a longer time period, and are therefore relatively conservative. As the analysis provides for outcomes from a range of scenarios, including no fire, they do not include the quantitative probability of fire occurring within this time period. The results indicate that should fire damage 50 per cent of area by 2031, overall loss will be greater than 80 per cent, regardless of the various predicted harvest rates or the original baselines used (predicted occupied habitat or ‘suitable forest’). This loss is considered to be very substantial. Under the maximum predicted harvest rates the loss is very substantial if fire only damages 35 per cent of habitat to 2031. These results are summarised in Table 2 (with detail provided in Appendix 1). A revised Action Statement under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 for Leadbeater’s possum was approved and released in August 2014 (DEPI, 2014). This Action Statement sets out what is intended to be done by the Victorian Government to conserve and manage the species. Action Statements are designed to apply for three to five years, after which time they will be reviewed and updated. The Action Statement (DEPI, 2014) for Leadbeater’s possum notes further specific reductions in harvesting activities relative to Leadbeater’s possum ‘potential habitat’ (‘potential habitat = ‘suitable forest’). These include: that all future harvesting activities, including thinning and the construction of new roads, are to be excluded from the timber harvesting exclusion zone around [verified] colonies* [i.e. 200m radius], harvesting activities will be excluded from within 100 m of modelled old growth ash forests, protection from harvesting activities for at least 30 per cent of ash forest (approximately 274 ha) to develop old growth forest, additional exclusions with a 200 metre radius (Special Protection Zones) will be established around all verified records of colony sites from the 15 years prior to February 2014, and all new records once the record is verified. harvesting will be delayed for two years in areas where modelling (Lumsden et al., 2013) predicts a greater than 0.65 probability of being occupied by Leadbeater’s possum. Should Leadbeater’s possums be confirmed to occur following surveys [presumably undertaken across these areas within the two year timeframe?], these sites will be confirmed sites and zoned as Special Protection Zones. * colonies are required to be verified to a standard developed by DEPI. These reductions in harvesting activities are expected to reduce the impact of harvesting beyond 2014, however estimates of the level of reduction relative to the baselines of the above analyses are not quantifiable. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 13 of 53 276 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Table 2. Summary outcome of assessment under A3 type Assessment baseline Estimated total Estimated Estimated period area decline – no total total future fire1 decline – decline – 35% fire2 50% fire1 A3(a) Predicted 2013 to 2031 15,000 ha 65 77–83 87 suitable habitat A3(b) Predicted 2013 to 2031 2,225 ha 63 77–83 87 suitable habitat A3(c) ‘suitable 2013 to 2031 146,660 ha 65 77–83 87 forest’ 1= under all harvest scenarios assessed 2= range of total loss under all harvest scenarios assessed The Committee considers that it is unlikely that no fire will occur by 2031 and, although included here in Table 2 to demonstrate the lower bound of decline under A3, scenarios of no fire will not be considered further for this assessment to 2031. Given that: the Committee’s assessments of fire scenarios are relatively conservative to models predicting outcomes based on fire history for the area, a 35 per cent impact of fire is similar to the 2009 fires, Lumsden et al. (2013) and LPAG (2013) note that over the last century, bushfires have occurred in the Central Highlands on average every ten years this assessment is over an 18 year period, and therefore fire has a even greater likelihood of occurring, the 18 year period provides for the likelihood of more than one fire occurring within this time period, that the intensity and frequency of fire is expected to increase (e.g., DSE, 2008; Lumsden et al., 2013), the smaller the area considered, the lower the likelihood of fire impact to that area, however the greater the consequence should it occur, on balance the Committee considers that decline in population size to 2031 under A3 is estimated, inferred, projected and suspected to be of over 80 per cent and very severe. Long term projections beyond 2031 - After the period under consideration for this criterion, Leadbeater’s possum is confidently predicted to decline further. Beyond 2031 (the limit of consideration for thresholds in this criterion) the rate of decline of hollow-bearing trees and therefore Leadbeater’s possums will increase, noting that the rate of decline will increase further towards 2060, and recognising there is likely to be some degree of lagged response. Mountain ash typically do not start forming hollows until they are 120 years old, with the large cavities preferred by Leadbeater’s possum typically taking 190–220 years to form (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988). The trend for projected abundance of hollow-bearing trees in montane ash forests is for a rapid decline over the coming 20 years, even without further logging and fire, with projections of more than 4 hollow-bearing trees per hectare habitat wide in 2013 to 1.5 per ha by 2035, followed by less than 0.9 per ha by 2060 (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm. (2014a) project that the amount of suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum will decline by at least 75 per cent by 2035. This is considered to be an underestimate given that it does not include estimates of the impacts of edge effects on the degradation of habitat suitability created by clearfell logging (and harvesting infrastructure e.g., roads). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 14 of 53 277 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Following 2060, the largest cohort of old trees regenerating after the 1939 fires, will begin to develop cavities suitable for occupancy by Leadbeater’s possum (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a) and therefore following this time, Leadbeater’s possums may begin to rebuild in numbers. The Leadbeater’s possum reserve system was established as a key strategy for conservation of the species. Lumsden et al. (2013) recognise that areas will become increasingly unsuitable for Leadbeater’s possum before 1939 regrowth trees mature sufficiently to produce suitable hollows during the next 50–120 years. Increased rates of tree fall and future fires will exacerbate this situation, with models predicting the population in the reserve to fall to critically low levels (Lumsden et al., 2013). Lumsden et al. (2013) undertook population viability modelling (see Criterion 5) to quantify the risk of extinction with risk of extinction defined as the probability of adult females falling below 500 within a 200 year time frame. Overall, the results of their modelled scenarios indicate that, even without further disturbances such as future wildfires and an accelerated loss of hollow-bearing trees, the reserve system does not provide the requisite minimum population requirements. The analysis predicts that the population of Leadbeater’s possum within the reserve system has a high likelihood of being at a very low population size which imposes on the species a greater risk of extinction, and that the existing reserve is insufficient to ensure the long-term persistence of the species. Woinarski et al. (2014) found Leadbeater’s possum to be critically endangered based on this criterion (IUCN criterion A) for declines in population size (a) (b) as well as area of occupancy/extent of occurrence/habitat quality (c), in the past, future and past+future (A2, A3, A4), with a rate likely to exceed 80 per cent (thresholds of eligibility for critically endangered). This was based on the following information: absence of populations from sites burnt in 2009 suggesting a decline of greater than 40 per cent since 2009, monitoring of known subpopulations (e.g., Lake Mountain, Yellingbo) and modelling indicate that the current rate of decline is greater than 50 per cent and suspected to be greater than 80 per cent over the last 18 years, this rate is likely to increase over the next 18 years (due to loss of suitable den trees and other habitat deterioration, and the risk of fire). Burns et al. (2014) undertook a quantitative assessment of the probability of ecosystem collapse of the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. They defined the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem as forest dominated by mountain ash but which may also contain alpine ash, shining gum, or at lower elevations messmate stringybark (Eucalyptus oblique), mountain grey gum (Eucalyptus cypelloarpa) and red stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), and differentiation from other ecosystems also dominated by mountain ash (e.g., in other parts of Victoria and Tasmania) by other features including its distinctive vertebrate fauna and fauna, such as Leadbeater’s possum – which is unique to this Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem among other forests dominated by mountain ash and restricting it to 157,000 ha within the Central Highlands of Victoria. Burns et al. (2014) defined three potential thresholds for ecosystem collapse of the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. One was where the abundance of hollow-bearing trees dropped below one per hectare averaged across the entire Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. Modelling to 2067 included 39 scenarios. These included no harvesting and no future fire as the best case scenario, and worst case scenario of harvesting and one fire equivalent in extent to that of the 1939 fires. The estimate of decline for the best case scenario (no fire, no harvesting) to 2067 was 78 per cent and the worst case 92 per cent. The IUCN (2014) notes that an understanding of ataxon and its relationship to its habitat, and the threats facing the habitat, is central to making the most appropriate assumptions about habitat loss and subsequent population reductions. It notes that populations may have a lagged response to habitat loss. The predictions that Leadbeater’s possum habitat loss will continue into the future to 2067 suggest that, on balance, a critically endangered listing of population Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 15 of 53 278 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. decline is most appropriate for A3 (loss to 2031). A summary of thresholds and listing categories for conclusions for assessments under Criterion a (A2 and A3) is provided at Table 3. Table 3. Summary conclusions for thresholds assessed under Criterion 1 Guidance threshold Listing category A2 very severe (≥80% decline) Critically Endangered A3 very severe (≥80% decline) Critically Endangered Conclusion for Criterion 1 The Committee finds that analyses of loss of population size under Criterion 1 (A2 and A3) are very severe under A2 and very severe under A3 and that the species is therefore eligible under this criterion as Critically Endangered. Criterion 2: Geographic distribution (based on either of B1 or B2) B1. Extent of occurrence estimated to be very restricted <100 km2, restricted <5,000 km2 or limited < 20,000 km2 B2. Area of occupancy estimated to be very restricted <10- km2, restricted <500- km2 or limited <2,000 km2 AND - - - Geographic distribution is precarious for the survival of the species, (based on at least two of a–c) a. Severely fragmented or known to exist at a limited location. b. Continuing decline, observed, inferred or projected, in any of the following: (i) extent of occurrence (ii) area of occupancy (iii) area, extent and/or quality of habitat (iv) number of locations or subpopulations (v) number of mature individuals. c. Extreme fluctuations in any of the following: (i) extent of occurrence (ii) area of occupancy (iii) number of locations or subpopulations (iv) number of mature individuals Eligible for listing as Endangered (based on B2 (a)+ (b)(iii)(iv)(v)) Evidence: Geographic distribution - quantitative estimates Leadbeater’s possum is a habitat specialist, with one of the most restricted distributions of any Australian mammal (Lindenmayer, 2013). It occurs in two distinct subpopulations. The lowland subpopulation of Leadbeater’s possum at Yellingbo is isolated from the remaining alpine and subalpine colonies The lowland forest habitat used by this subpopulation at Yellingbo covers approximately 181 ha, however, less than 20 hectares provides suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum (D. Harley 2014, pers. comm. cited in DEPI, 2014). The remaining possums are patchily distributed (Macfarlane et al., 1997) and occur within alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum within a 70 x 80 km area (5,600 km2) of the Central Highlands (LPAG, 2013; Lumsden et al., 2013) for which for extent of occurrence is considered to be ‘limited’. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 16 of 53 279 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Within this 70 x 80 km range, there are approximately 1,950 km2 of ‘potential habitat’ (LPAG, 2013) or 204,000 hectares (LPAG, 2014b) of alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum forests (LPAG, 2014b) which, if considered to be extent of occurrence, is considered to be to be restricted. VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) provides that there is 4,032 km2 of forest (ash and non-ash) within the home range of Leadbeater’s possum and within the Central, Dandenong and Central Gippsland Forest Management Areas. Of this area, ash forest (including mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum forest as ‘suitable forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum) totals 2,044 km2. In 2009, approximately 34 per cent (LPAG 2014a) or 35 per cent (LPAG, 2013) of alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum within the 70 x 80 km range of Leadbeater’s possum was burnt. 149,100 ha (1,491 km2) remains unburnt since 2000 which, if considered to be extent of occurrence, is considered to be to be restricted. Burns et al. (2014) applied the IUCN Red List Ecosystems criteria to assess the Mountain Ash Forest Ecosystem for potential listing as threatened. They defined the Mountain Ash Forest Ecosystem as including that dominated by mountain ash but also may contain alpine ash, shining gum, or at lower elevations messmate stringybark, mountain grey gum and red stringybark and differentiate this ecosystem from others also dominated by mountain ash (e.g., in other parts of Victoria and Tasmania) by other features including its distinctive vertebrate fauna, such as Leadbeater’s possum, and flora. Burns et al. (2014) note that there are approximately 156,700 ha (1,567 km 2) of this ecosystem. The area of minimum convex polygon enclosing all mapped occurrences of this ecosystem was 11,000 km2, which for extent of occurrence for Leadbeater’s possum is considered to be ‘limited’. As discussed in Criterion 1, Leadbeater’s possum is a habitat specialist and not all alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum is suitable as habitat. While this forest has been termed ‘potential habitat’ (e.g., LPAG, 2013; 2014a, b), not all of this forest is suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum. Lindenmayer et al. (pers comm., 2014a) have undertaken large scale vegetation surveys in the central highlands of Victoria since 1987 (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000). Their data layers indicate that at 1987 and 1989 montane ash forest was represented by 171,200 ha. Of this available montane ash forest, only 6.7 per cent was predicted to support ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum at this time (i.e. approximately 11,470 ha). This estimate was based on measures of the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the prevalence of an understorey of Acacia spp. Reduction in the number of hollow-bearing trees, fire effects and clearfell logging has reduced the amount of suitable habitat to 1.3 per cent of the montane ash forest estate. On this basis, Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) provide a crude estimate that approximately 2,225 ha remaining ash forest is currently suitable as habitat for Leadbeater’s possum. If this estimate of ‘suitable habitat’ is considered as area of occupancy, this is considered to be restricted (<500 km2). Burns et al. (2014) note that by 2011, the estimated amount of unburnt (since 1903) and unlogged (since 1932) Mountain Ash Forest Ecosystem remaining was 1,700 ha. Lumsden et al. (2013) undertook a broad scale survey to determine where the species currently occurs, identify population strongholds, and to investigate relationships between environmental variables and probability of occurrence to allow prediction of distribution across the species’ range. The survey sampled across all of the species’ range but only within forest blocks known to contain records of Leadbeater’s possum and/or potentially suitable habitat (containing ecological vegetation classes known to be used by Leadbeater’s possum), to determine where the species currently occurs and identify population strongholds. It investigated relationships Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 17 of 53 280 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. between environmental variables and probability of occurrence to allow prediction of distribution across the entire species’ geographic range. It was not possible to include forest age class (e.g., old growth forest) within the modelling, as this classification has only been comprehensively mapped in state forest with comparable data not available for most parks and reserves (Lumsden et al., 2013). Modelling of predicted current strongholds for Leadbeater’s possum is provided in Figure 4 of Lumsden et al. (2013). The areas include unburnt habitat mainly in the south of the Central Highlands including the Baw Baw Plateau and its southern slopes, the Toorongo Plateau south of the Upper Yarra Catchment and state forest in the vicinity of Powelltown, parts of Toolangi State Forest, and southern parts of the Upper Yarra National Park. Occupancy by Leadbeater’s possum across sampled sites (which included burnt sites) was approximately 16 per cent. Unburnt sites considered as potentially suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum were selected based on Ecological Vegetation Classes known to be used by Leadbeater’s possum (i.e., Montane Damp Forest, Montane Riparian Thicket, Montane Wet Forest, Wet Forest, Cool Temperate Rainforest and Sub-alpine Woodland). Of these, Leadbeater’s possum was recorded from 17.4 per cent of the ash sites and half of the snowgum sites (noting there were few snowgum sites sampled). Occupied sites were generally structurally complex. Based on areas that are predicted to have at least a 50 per cent likelihood of the species being present now, Lumsden et al. (2013) estimate that there is approximately 150 km2 (15,000 ha) of currently occupied habitat, which for area of occupancy is considered to be restricted (<500 km2). There are no indications, however, that these areas of predicted occupation have been tested by subsequent surveys to detect the species and verify these predictions. Table 4. Summary of estimates for extent of occurrence and area of occupancy for Leadbeater’s possum (alpine and subalpine subpopulation). Data source Extent of occurrence Area of occupancy termed ‘suitable forest’, ‘potential habitat’, (as predicted to be occupied, or ‘ash forest’ or as otherwise specified ‘suitable habitat’ within ash forest) very restricted <10 km2 very restricted <100 km2 restricted <500 km2 restricted <5,000 km2 limited ~<2,000 km2I limited ~< 20,000 km2 2 2 Lumsden et al. (2013) 5,600 km predicted to be occupiedI 150 km I LPAG (2013) 5,600 km2 and ‘potential habitat’ 1,950 km2 LPAG (2014 b) 5,600 km2 and ‘potential habitat’2,040 km 2 2 unburnt ash forest 1,491 km VicForests (pers. ‘suitable’ ash forestI 2,044 km2 comm., 2014) (VicForests pers. comm., Maximum available suitable unburnt and 2 2014 + LPAG, 2014a) and unharvested ash forest at 20131,466 km following Criterion 1A2 2 Lindenmeyer et al. - suitable habitat I22 km I pers. comm. (2014a) Burns et al. (2014) 11,000 km2 71,567 km 2 Table 4 summarises estimates of extent of occurrence and area of occupancy for Leadbeater’s possum. All estimates of current extent of occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum are over 100 km2 and less than 20,000 km2 which the Committee considers are restricted to limited. The area of occupancy of a taxon is defined as the area within its extent of occurrence occupied by the taxon, reflecting the fact that a taxon will not usually occur- throughout- the area of its Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 18 of 53 281 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. extent of occurrence, which may contain unsuitable or unoccupied habitats (IUCN, 2014). Given that Leadbeater’s possum is a habitat specialist, the Committee considers that among these estimates, the best estimate for current area of occupancy of Leadbeater’s possum is the area within unburnt ash forest that is considered likely to be occupied by the possum based on habitat conditions and known habitat preference. Two estimates are available: (1) that ‘crudely’ estimated by Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) at 22 km2 and (2) Lumsden et al.’s, (2013) estimate of 150 km2. Both of these estimates range between the Committee’s guideline thresholds (of between 10 km2 and 500 km2) for restricted. In addition, the Committee notes that data are not available to provide for more accurate estimates of area of occupancy using the methodology of 2 x 2 km2 grid as recommended -by IUCN (2014), and that these estimates are, therefore, likely to be underestimates. Geographic distribution - precariousness The species is considered to have a geographic distribution that is precarious for its survival for the following reasons: a) Severely fragmented Increased extinction risks to Leadbeater’s possum result from the fact that most individuals are found in small and relatively isolated subpopulations. Macfarlane et al. (1997) described the distribution of Leadbeater’s possum in 1997 as occurring in scattered patches. The species is not uniformly distributed, but occurs in patches of suitable habitat influenced by past wildfires and selective timber harvesting operations (DSE, 2003). Genetic work indicates that Leadbeater’s possum consists of two genetically-distinct subpopulations that have historically occupied different habitats (Hansen, 2008). The small subpopulation at Yellingbo is a surviving remnant of a lowland subpopulation that has historically been, and remains, isolated from others. The remaining possums occupy alpine forest and subalpine woodland comprising mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum. Throughout these areas the species is distributed in scattered patches (Macfarlane et al., 1997). The Leadbeater’s Possum Advisory Group (LPAG, 2013) notes that fire and timber harvesting result in unsuitable habitat, leading to isolation of colonies and further fragmentation of the populations, and a reduced genetic diversity at a landscape scale. The Advisory Group identifies the subpopulation at Toolangi as an example of isolation from other populations due to fire having burnt surrounding areas. The Leadbeater’s Possum Advisory Group (LPAG, 2013) notes that old-growth stands of mountain ash contain the highest densities of hollow-bearing trees, which are a critical habitat feature for Leadbeater’s possum. The combination of landscape-wide fires and 30 years of salvage harvesting after the 1939 fires has led to there being very little of this old growth forest remaining in the Central Highlands. Lindenmayer et al. (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 2011; Lindenmayer et al., 2012; Lindenmayer et al., 2013a) estimate that old growth forest comprises around 1.1–1.2 per cent of the mountain ash forest estate, estimated to total 1,887 ha (Lindenmayer et al., pers comm., 2014a), but is confined to small remnant patches embedded within regrowth forest across 147 different patches, giving a mean patch size of 12.8 ha. Fire causes habitat fragmentation. Leadbeater’s possums in 2013 do not occupy sites burnt in 2009 (Lumsden et al., 2013). Lumsden et al. (2013) aimed to determine the extent to which Leadbeater’s possum may have persisted in unburnt habitat islands refuges following the 2009 fires. Thirty-seven potential fire refuges were found with intact canopy and understory, and Leadbeater’s possum was detected at six of these sites. Lumsden et al. (2013) found that there are likely to be only small numbers of individuals in any occupied unburnt refuges, with doubt about their capacity to persist. Lindenmayer et al. (1993d) found that linear strips set aside and excluded from wood production include areas on steep slopes and adjacent to streams, or stands of unmerchantable timber set Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 19 of 53 282 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. aside for wildlife conservation. These supported fewer species and had a lower probability of containing an animal than sites of similar habitat quality within areas of continuous forest. The number of trees with hollows in contiguous forest occupied by an arboreal marsupial was approximately twice that of trees in retained linear strips. Habitat fragmentation has occurred as a result of: division by narrow, approximately 20–100m wide strips between logging coupes which do not support colonies of Leadbeater’s habitat (indicated by empirical field data), and logging roads and tracks that Leadbeater’s possums do not cross (as indicated by radio- tracking work) Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). b) Continuing decline is observed, inferred and projected: A decline in area of suitable habitat relative to the present is outlined in Criterion 1, and threats are continuing. Continuing decline is: observed, inferred and projected in (iii) area, extent and/quality of habitat; inferred and projected in the (iv) number of locations or subpopulations; and inferred and projected in (v) the number of mature individuals. Decline in area and extent of habitat through loss to harvesting Areas of 44,700 ha of unburnt ash forest are currently identified as available for harvesting (VicForests, pers. comm., 2014). These do not include areas excluded from harvesting as Special Protection Zones, modelled code exclusions and estimated additional harvesting exclusions. Leadbeater’s possums are recorded on harvestable land outside of these exclusion areas. Leadbeater’s possum does not inhabit logged and regenerated forest where no hollow- bearing trees have been retained (Lindenmayer et al., 2013b). While some habitat trees may remain in clearfelled areas, it is unlikely that these areas are suitable for long term viability (Lindenmayer et al., 1993a) and therefore areas identified for future clearfell harvesting are likely to represent a level of projected and inferred future Leadbeater’s possum habitat decline. Decline in area and extent of habitat and number of locations or subpopulations due to likelihood of fire Over the last century, bushfires have occurred in the Central Highlands on average every ten years (LPAG, 2013; Lumsden et al., 2013). An additional bushfire occurring in the Central Highlands within the next ten years is likely, with the potential to further reduce ash or snow gum woodland in the range of Leadbeater’s possum and therefore contribute to Leadbeater’s possum population decline. While the magnitude of any future fire and its impact on existing ash forest is unable to be quantified, further decline is considered to be projected and inferred. Decline in area and extent of habitat due to prescribed burning The Victorian Government has committed to implement all recommendations from the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, which include an annual state-wide target of burning a minimum of five per cent of public land in Victoria. This target includes National Parks and Reserves and other public land. Fire operational plans for the years 2013/14 to 2015/16 have been made available detailing plans to undertake approved burns of 276,295, 312,886 and 425,038 hectares (respectively) across Victoria over this three year period. A small proportion of these burns may be planned within habitat areas of Leadbeater’s possum excluded from harvesting (http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/fire-and-emergencies/planned-burns/fire-operations- plans/current-approved-fop). Decline in habitat quality due to decline of abundance of hollow-bearing trees There are strong and quantified links between the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer at al., 1991b; Lindenmayer et al., 2013c; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). A decline in the number of hollow-bearing trees therefore corresponds to a decline in the number of mature individuals of Leadbeater’s possum. Lumsden et al. (2013) find that, in contrast to the 1939 fires, it is predicted that there will be limited rebound in population numbers after the 2009 fires. While there were extensive areas of Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 20 of 53 283 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. old growth forest prior to the 1939 fires, the large living trees that survived the fire and the large fire-killed dead trees were of sufficient size to provide suitable hollows. The 1939 regrowth areas that were burnt in 2009 lost the majority of dead stags. The live trees that were killed are considered unlikely to be large enough to provide suitable hollows. Any that do provide hollows, are predicted will remain standing for only a short period of time (Lindenmayer et al., 2012; Lumsden et al., 2013). The population is predicted to continue to decline until areas of 1939 regrowth forest become sufficiently mature to provide adequate tree hollows (Lumsden et al., 2013), i.e. until at least 2067 (Lindenmayer et al., 2012). Based on long-term monitoring (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1993a; 1997; 2011; 2012) Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) estimate the abundance of hollow-bearing trees will decline in the future from more than four per ha ecosystem wide in 2013 to 1.5 per ha by 2035. This estimate represents more than a 63 per cent decline in habitat quality to 2035. The rate of decline then increases, with less than 0.9 per ha ecosystem wide by 2060. The largest cohort of old trees regenerating after the 2039 fires will not begin to develop cavities suitable for occupancy by Leadbeater’s possum until after 2060 (Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Burns et al. (2014) modelled future abundance of hollow-bearing trees using thirty-nine scenarios of ‘no fire’, and ‘small, medium, and large fire regimes’ as well as projections of clearfell logging under the 2011–2016 Timber Release Plan (DSE, 2011). They found a projected severe decline in the average number of large old hollow-bearing trees across the mountain ash forest of approximately 3.77 ha-1 in 2011, to 0.29–0.82 ha-1 by 2067. The best case scenario of no fire or logging was 78 per cent decline relative to 2011, and worst case (with fire equal in extent to the 1939 fire) of 92 per cent decline. Burns et al. (2014) find a greater than 92 per cent chance that the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem will reach a collapsed state (defined as below 1 hollow-bearing tree per hectare averaged across the ecosystem), by 2067. A consequential decline in the number of mature individuals of Leadbeater’s possum is therefore projected, noting that the rate of decline increases towards 2060, and recognising there is likely to be some degree of lagged response. Decline in habitat quality - Yellingbo subpopulation Of the 50 ha of lowland floodplain forest at Yellingbo (LPAG, 2013), less than 20 ha of high quality habitat is estimated to be currently available (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013). There are three main causes for this decline in habitat condition: (i) eucalypt dieback related to altered hydrology, (ii) habitat succession towards an older age-class that is more open in structure, and (iii) a lack of eucalypt regeneration (Harley and Antrobus, 2007). Dieback of the tree canopy of mountain swamp gum was first noted in the 1970s. In 2003 dieback was estimated to affect more than 40 per cent of mountain swamp gum forest along Cockatoo Creek (Turner, 2003). It has been estimated that around 90 per cent of the swamp habitat is currently in poor condition (VEAC, 2012). Fifty-six per cent of active territories at Yellingbo have been abandoned during the past ten years as a result of habitat deterioration. Vegetation dieback is present at more than 52 per cent of sites across the reserve (Harley pers. comm., 2014). Mid-story species necessary for movement of Leadbeater’s possum are declining in stem density and do not form a continuous canopy. Some are heavily grazed (by deer) and are not regenerating to a density desirable as Leadbeater’s possum habitat. There is a low abundance of denning hollows in the reserve (Harley et al., 2005). Molecular analyses indicate that population fragmentation within the reserve has already occurred (Hansen, 2008). Reproductive rates have also declined at Yellingbo. The mean percentage of colonies (denning groups) where the dominant adult female had pouch young or was lactating has declined from 65 ± 9 per cent during 2001 – 2007 to 47 ± 24 per cent during 2008 – 2012 (Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data cited in Harley and Lindenmayer pers comm., 2013 Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 21 of 53 284 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Population monitoring of the lowland population of Leadbeater’ possum at has been conducted at Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve since 1996. Data collected between 1995 and 2004 indicated that the size of the population was stable at 80–100 individuals (Harley et al., 2005). The number of individuals recorded peaked to 112 at 2003. At 2012 the number had dropped to 60 individuals (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013). Recent reports are that the population has declined to only 42 individuals in 2013 (Arup and Smith, 2013) and in 2014 only 40 individuals with concerns expressed about the population’s genetic health (Smith, 2014). Reversal in the decline of these conditions will be difficult and may not be achievable, and therefore there is an expected continuing decline inferred and projected in (iii) area, extent and/quality of habitat; inferred and projected in the (iv) number of locations or subpopulations; and inferred and projected in (v) the number of mature individuals at Yellingbo. The Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve population of Leadbeater’s possum is genetically distinct from the remaining Leadbeater’s possums (Hansen, 2008). Loss of this subpopulation would be a significant loss to genetic diversity of the species. Decline in numbers of mature individuals Some Leadbeater’s possums have been found to occur in a small number of unburnt fire refuges (16 per cent of sites surveyed with intact canopy and understory) (LPAG, 2013). These animals have been suggested as possible sources of recolonisation of burnt areas once regenerated habitat becomes suitable. Previous population viability analyses suggest that single, isolated populations exceeding 200 animals are needed to have a high probability of long term persistence (Lindenmayer et al., 1993b). As there are likely to be only small numbers of individuals in these occupied unburnt refuges, there is doubt about the capacity of these isolated colonies to persist (Lumsden et al., 2013). Population viability analysis was undertaken by Lumsden et al. (2013) to evaluate if the reserve system, established as one of the key strategies for the conservation of Leadbeater’s possum, was sufficient to support the long-term conservation of the species. The results of this modelling found that all scenarios had more than a five per cent chance of the number of adult females falling below 500 individuals in the future. In the best case modelled scenario i.e., without further future fires or further loss of hollow-bearing trees, there was a 73 per cent probability of the population falling below 500 adult females within the reserve system. All other modelled scenarios with habitat loss and/or future fires, had an even higher probability that the population would fall below 500 adult females in the future, thereby providing a high degree of certainty of future decline. This population viability analysis predicts that the population of Leadbeater’s possums in the reserve system will steadily decline until later this century, even in areas not burnt during the 2009 fires, as dead nest trees will continue to collapse without replacement, in contrast to the 1939 fires. The long term viability of the lowland population at Yellingbo is doubtful, given its current population size of only 40 individuals (Smith, 2014) and that population viability analyses indicate populations of 50 individuals or fewer were predicted to be highly vulnerable to extinction within the next 100 years (Lindenmayer et al., 1993b). Decline in numbers of mature individuals - Loss of genetic diversity Population genetic analyses have been undertaken on the two largest populations of Leadbeater’s possums prior to the 2009 fires: the Lake Mountain (159 individuals for which genetic material was available for testing) and Yellingbo (198 individuals). Effective population 1 size (Ne) for each of these subpopulations was found to be 57 and 7 respectively (Hansen et 1 Ne, ‘effective population size’ is defined by Frankham et al. (2004). It can be likened to the number of animals that successfully contribute genetic material to the next generation, providing a proxy of the number of breeding animals in a stable population. It is rarely as large as the census population size. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 22 of 53 285 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. al., 2009). Hansen (Hansen, 2008; Hansen and Taylor, 2008; Hansen et al., 2009) found that the Lake Mountain population was likely to represent a single genetic unit with other nearby populations (Cambarville, Marysville and Mt Margaret) and also found a strong signal of historical decline (most likely coinciding with climatic changes at the end of the Pleistocene). These past range contractions may exacerbate current population processes (Hansen pers. comm., 2014). c) Extreme fluctuations. Extreme fluctuations can be said to occur in a number of taxa where population size or distribution area varies widely, rapidly and frequently, typically with a variation greater than one order of magnitude. Population trajectories must show a recurring pattern of increases and decreases representing changes in total population size. Populations that undergo extreme fluctuations are likely to have highly variable growth rates, and therefore likely to be exposed to higher extinction risks than populations with lower levels of variability (IUCN, 2014). While Leadbeater’s possums appear to have rebuilt following the extensive fires of 1939, and have again suffered a reduction in numbers following the 2009 fires, there is no indication that Leadbeater’s possum has undergone ‘extreme fluctuations’. Modelling indicates that, in contrast to the 1939 fires, hollow-bearing trees on which Leadbeater’s possum depend, will continue to decline in abundance and not rebuild until after 2067 (Lindenmayer et al., 2012; Lumsden et al., 2013), with future bushfires in the species’ range further exacerbating this situation (LPAG, 2014b). Leadbeater’s possum therefore does not meet this subcriterion. Conclusion for Criterion 2 As the species has a restricted area of occupancy and the species is considered to have a geographic distribution that is precarious for its survival based on (a) and (b), the species is considered to be eligible for listing as -Endangered. Criterion 3: The estimated total number of mature individuals is very low <250, low <2,500 or limited<10,000; and either of (A) or (B) is true - (A) evidence suggests that the number will continue to decline at a very high rate (25% in 3 years or 1 generation, whichever is longer, up to 100 years), high rate (20% in 5 years or 2 generations, whichever is longer, up to 100 years) or substantial rate (10% in 10 years or 3 generations, whichever is longer, up to 100 years); or (B) the number is likely to continue to decline and its geographic distribution is precarious for its survival (based on at least two of a – c): a. Severely fragmented or known to exist at a limited location. b. Continuing decline, observed, inferred or projected, in any of the following: (i) extent of occurrence (ii) area of occupancy (iii) area, extent and/or quality of habitat (iv) number of locations or subpopulations (v) number of mature individuals. c. Extreme fluctuations in any of the following: (i) extent of occurrence (ii) area of occupancy (iii) number of locations or subpopulations (iv) number of mature individuals Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 23 of 53 286 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Eligible for listing as Endangered (based on limited and B(a)+(b)(iii)(iv)(v)) Evidence: Numbers of individuals Leadbeater’s possum is cryptic, being nocturnal, fast moving and inhabiting forest canopy and sub-canopy (Smith and Hartley, 2008). Accurately estimating population size is therefore difficult. Survey techniques require intensive resourcing (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1996a). Initial estimates of the total number of mature individuals of Leadbeater’s possum were provided by Menkhorst (2008) who estimated 2000 individuals for the montane populations and 200 individuals at Yellingbo. Leadbeater’s possums in montane ash forest have been monitored as part of a long term monitoring program since the 1980s (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 1997, 2011, 2012). Monitoring has also been ongoing at targeted strongholds such as Mt Bullfight, Lake Mountain, Mt Baw Baw and Yellingbo (Harley, 2005, Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data via Harley and Lindenmayer pers. comm., 2013). Lindenmayer (1996b) notes that while others had estimated the montane population at between 1000 and 5000 individuals, his estimation at that time was 4000 individuals based on the extent of suitable habitat, the mean abundance of possums on such sites, and the fact that the species is absent from 40 per cent of apparently suitable areas (Lindenmayer, 1996b). Leadbeater’s possum have been monitored at three sub-alpine targeted sites – Lake Mountain, Mt Bullfight and Mt Baw Baw; Lake Mountain and Mt Bullfight were burnt in 2009. The Lake Mountain site was thought to contain up to 300 individual Leadbeater’s possums prior to the 2009 fires, with only six individuals found following extensive surveys after the 2009 fires (Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data, cited in Harley and Lindenmayer pers comm., 2013). Surveys at Mt Bullfight suggested that the population comprised fewer than 50 individuals following the 2009 fires (Harley and Antrobus, unpublished data, cited in Harley and Lindenmayer pers comm., 2013). Subsequent surveys (Lumsden et al., 2013) included the use of call playback and thermal imaging cameras to detect presence, with a probability of detecting the species’ presence on occupied sites of up to 80 per cent when there was no wind (Lumsden et al., 2013). Findings from these surveys were consistent with earlier post fire findings (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 2013), with no possums detected in any area burnt during the 2009 fires irrespective of fire intensity, including those sites where the understory was burnt but the canopy remained intact. Based on the post-2009 fire surveys of occurrence, Lumsden et al. (2013) undertook occupancy modelling to identify population strongholds and investigate relationships between environmental variables and probability of occurrence. Modelling was designed to account for the possibility of non-detection during surveys. Lumsden et al. (2013) do not attempt to provide estimates of numbers of colonies or individuals in their report, the purpose of these surveys was not to estimate population numbers (LPAG, 2014a). However, the Leadbeater’s Possum Advisory Group extrapolated population numbers from these data. It doing so it notes (LPAG, 2014a) a number of levels of uncertainty and assumptions, including bias associated with surveying on roads from where all surveys were conducted, uncertainty in the call playback survey technique, and that the survey method does not enable determination of the number of individuals. The Committee notes that these assumptions and the technique have yet to be independently tested for accuracy and therefore has a high level of uncertainty. LPAG (2014a) notes that the focus for robust decisions should be on population trends rather than absolute numbers, given these uncertainties. Nonetheless, they estimate there may be 1,500–4,500 (LPAG, 2013) or 1,578–4,384 (LPAG, 2014b; DEPI, 2014) colonies present in the Central Highlands ‘based on the number of adult breeding females’. LPAG (2014a) notes that that this survey method only detected presence or absence, that the number of animals present in each Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 24 of 53 287 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. colony of Leadbeater’s possums can vary substantially, and the current average colony size in different environments is unknown. If applying a conservative average colony size of 2.5 individuals to estimate ‘a potential number of individuals’ in the Central Highlands, the ‘predicted number of individuals’ range from 3,945–10,960 (LPAG, 2014 a, b; DEPI, 2014) (or approximately 3,750–11,250 in LPAG, 2013). Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) notes that direct estimation of numbers of individuals is problematic and notes the potential for overestimation using the survey methods of Lumsden et al. (2013) by as much as 3–5 times. Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) note that using playback calls may have a larger sound catchment than estimated by others who have previously used this technique and is likely to have drawn in animals from distances of as much as 400–500m, especially because the lack of continuous habitat in these forests means that colonies are unlikely to have territory boundaries with neighbouring colonies. Patten (pers. comm., 2014) notes the use of thermal imaging for population surveys of arboreal mammals has not been undertaken previously and its accuracy requires further investigation. In the use of this criterion for number of remaining individuals, the IUCN (2014) notes: ‘mature individuals that will never produce new recruits should not be counted’. Leadbeater’s possums live in small groups of between two to twelve individuals containing one breeding pair (Lindenmayer, 1996a). A snap shot of colony composition of nine colonies in 1978 (Smith, 1984) found one of each colony size of 2, 3, and 6, three colonies of 4 individuals and three of 5 individuals (median= colony size of 4). The mating system typically results in a 3:1 (m:f) sex ratio across the species (Smith, 1980; Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995a). If this represents a monogamous pair in each colony and two non-reproductive animals – the percentage of mature breeding individuals is up to 50 per cent of total estimated population (50% is likely to represent a maximum). Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) provide ‘a crude’ estimate of maximum total numbers of individuals as 3,125. This estimate is based on availability of suitable habitat, which is estimated by Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) to be 2,225 ha at the end of 2013, and based on field survey data (e.g., Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988), the long-term mean abundance of animals per ha of suitable forest is 1.4 animals. Given that the species is colonial and colonies include non-breeding individuals, the number of breeding individuals is likely to be less that any estimate of total number of individuals. However, because population structure within the current population of Leadbeater’s possum is unknown, the estimated number of mature individuals relative to a total population size of 3,125 is unable to be estimated. If using the rationale of mature breeding individuals are up to 50 per cent of total population, as outlined above; the percentage of mature breeding individuals is 1,563. Population genetic analyses have been undertaken on the two largest populations of Leadbeater’s possums prior to the 2009 fires: the Lake Mountain and Yellingbo. Effective population size (Ne) provides a proxy of the number of breeding individuals in a stable population. Using microsatellite genetic markers, which provide a measure of recent population processes, Ne for these subpopulations was found to be 57 for Lake Mountain and 7 for Yellingbo (Hansen et al., 2009), which translates to 36 per cent of the known population at Lake Mountain and 4 per cent of the population at Yellingbo. Because genetic similarities cluster the Lake Mountain population with nearby populations of Cambarville, Marysville and Mt Margaret, the patterns from the genetic sample at Lake Mountain might be inferred for the broader region. If 36 per cent of the broader population are breeding individuals, this equates to approximately: 1,350 breeding individuals, if based on the lower estimate of 3,750 total individuals of LPAG (2013), or 1,125 breeding individuals, if based on the estimate of 3,125 total of Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 25 of 53 288 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Hansen pers. comm. (2014) notes caveats around extrapolating beyond the study area, as population processes may differ between habitats, and Ne is sensitive to rates of population growth and decline. It is therefore likely that the estimated total number of mature individuals is at least limited (<10,000) with population genetics suggesting that within these estimates breeding individuals may be low (<2500). Table 5. Summary of estimated numbers of individuals and numbers of breeding individuals Estimated numbers If 3:1 sex ratio = 50% If 36% of the broader population mature breeding are breeding individuals individuals** Menkhorst (2008) 2000 + 200 I1,100 I Lindenmayer (1996b) 4000 I2,000 I LPAG (2013) 3,750–11,250 I3,000 –9,000* I1,350 l– I4,050 LPAG (2014 a, b), DEPI 3,945–10,960 I3,156 –8,768* LJ1,420–L3,946 (2014) Lindenmayer et al. (pers. 3,125 c=J1,563 LJ1,125 comm., 2014a) * estimated as two breeding individuals in a colony, from the estimated number of colonies provided. ** 50% of the population being breeding individuals is likely to represent a maximum Table 5 summarises the estimates of individuals and breeding individuals. The number of mature breeding individuals of Leadbeater’s possums in the Central Highlands is at least limited -(<10,000) and is very likely to be restricted (<2,500). - Population monitoring of the lowland population of Leadbeater’s possum at has been conducted at Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve since 1996. Data collected between 1995 and 2004 indicated that the size of the population was stable at 80–100 individuals (Harley et al., 2005). The number of individuals recorded peaked to 112 at 2003. At 2012 the number had dropped to 60 individuals (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013). Recent reports are that the population has declined to only 42 individuals in 2013 (Arup and Smith, 2013) and in 2014 only 40 individuals (Smith, 2014). (A) Rate of decline Generation length for Leadbeater’s possum is six years. To meet part A of this criterion, evidence needs to suggest that the number of Leadbeater’s possums will continue to decline at: a very high rate (25% in 3 years), a high rate (20% in 12 years), or a substantial rate (10% in 18 years). While the population has been predicted to continue to decline in the future (see Criterion 5), the Committee does not have access to quantitative data to determine the rate of decline in the population over the periods required by part A of this criterion. Or (B) Continuing decline and precariousness To meet part B of this criterion, evidence needs to suggest that the number of Leadbeater’s possums is likely to continue to decline and its geographic distribution is precarious for its survival (based on a variety of options outlined in the criterion). The Committee has assessed this already in Criterion 2, and found that the species is likely to (B) continue to decline and that its geographic distribution is precarious for its survival (see Criterion 2) based on severe fragmentation (a) and continuing decline (b) observed, inferred and projected in (iii) area, extent and/or quality of habitat, (iv) number of locations or subpopulations, and (v) number of mature individuals). Conclusion for Criterion 3 Based on this evidence, the Committee considers that the number of mature breeding individuals of Leadbeater’s possums is likely to be at least limited and is very likely to be Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 26 of 53 289 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. restricted, the number is likely to continue to decline and the species’ geographic distribution is precarious for its survival and is therefore eligible for listing under this criterion as -Endangered. Criterion 4: Estimated total number of mature individuals: (a) Extremely low < 50 (b) Very low < 250 (c) Low .r-< 1000 --- Not found to be eligible for listing in this category Evidence: If using the IUCN (2014) guidelines for defining mature individuals for the criteria, ‘mature individuals that will never produce new recruits should not be counted’ and ‘in the case of biased adult or breeding sex ratios, it is appropriate to use lower estimates for the number of mature individuals’. As discussed in Criterion 3, the mating system of Leadbeater’s possum typically results in a 3:1 sex ratio across the species (Smith, 1980; Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995a). As described in Criterion 3, the estimates of the number of mature individuals are provided in Table 5. The highest threshold for eligibility under this criterion is 1000 mature individuals. All estimates of number of mature individuals are greater than 1000 (Table 5). These estimates are not considered to be low, very low or extremely low under this criterion. Criterion 5: Probability of extinction in the wild based on quantitative analysis is at least: (a) 50% in the immediate future (i.e. 10 years or three generations, whichever is longer, up to a maximum of 100 years); or (b) 20% in the near future (i.e. 20 year or five generations, whichever is longer, up to a maximum of 100 years); or (c) 10% in the medium-term future (i.e. within 100 years). Eligible for listing as Vulnerable (5c) Evidence: - Leadbeater’s possum has been the focus of a number of studies using Population Viability Analysis over the past two decades demonstrating the vulnerability of the species to extinction (Lindenmayer et al., 1993b; Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995 a,b, 1996; Lindenmayer and Lacy, 1995). Analyses have been used to predict trends in populations of Leadbeater’s possum by patch size, connectivity (Lindenmayer and Lacey, 1995; Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995a) and other factors such as spatial scale, wildfire (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995b) and logging (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1996). As the general rate of annual loss of trees with hollows is more than 3–5 per cent annually, Leadbeater’s possum could be lost from large Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 27 of 53 290 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. areas by 2040s. In areas of old-growth forest, where rate of hollow loss is lower, populations of 200 animals or more experienced a less than 10 per cent decline in predicted genetic variability and therefore, where suitable habitat can be maintained, may persist in the long term (e.g., 100 year projection). Lindenmayer et al., (1993b) note that old-growth forest patches of 600 ha should support a ‘population’ of 200 animals (old-growth forest being dominant overstory trees >120 years old, Lindenmayer et al., 2013a). Lindenmayer and Lacy (1995) however, note that while these populations may be demographically stable, more than this number of individuals might be required to avoid significant decline in genetic variability over 100 years, as demographic and genetic stability occur at different ‘population’ sizes. Small, isolated populations are vulnerable to inbreeding depression (Lindenmayer et al., 1993b). ‘Populations’ within isolated patches of 20 ha or less are very susceptible to extinction, even in the absence of wildfires, but the probability of persistence approached 100 per cent in patches of 250 ha (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995b). ‘Populations’ of 20 or fewer animals were characterised by very rapid rates of extinction and most failed to persist for longer than 50 years (Lindenmayer and Lacey, 1995). The probability of extinction of isolated populations remained above 60 per cent even for a single patch size of 1,200 ha once wildfire was included in the modelling. Predicted values for the probability of extinction were sensitive to inter-relationships between the frequency of fires and the proportion of habitat patches that were burnt during a given fire event (Lindenmayer and Possingham, 1995b). The timeframe over which these analyses are assessed is 100 years (Lindenmayer and Lacy, 1995; Lindenmayer et al., 1993b) or greater. Quantitative probability of extinction is included, however the populations modelled are based on small subpopulations that examine minimum population size viability under differing scenarios e.g., with founding populations of 25, 50, 100 individuals and differing environmental variability (with values raging from minimal (1) to moderate (20)). There are scenarios modelled that indicate that an examined ‘population’ will have a greater than 100 per cent probability of extinction with 100 years or less, however, these analyses do not attempt to examine the probability of extinction for the whole species, as is the intent of Criterion 5. These analyses do not provide the specific quantitative probabilities required for meeting the thresholds of Criterion 5. Some previous population strongholds have been found to have significantly declined to the point at which they are unlikely to be viable. For instance, the population at Lake Mountain has been reduced to less than 10 individuals following the 2009 fires (Harley and Lindenmayer, pers. comm., 2013; DEPI, 2014). Mount Bullfight supported Leadbeater’s possums in sub-alpine woodland habitat, but surveys since the 2009 fires indicate that approximately 30–50 individuals survive in three distinct areas (Harley and Antrobus unpublished data cited in DEPI, 2014). The long term viability of the lowland population at Yellingbo is doubtful, given its current population size of only 40 individuals (Smith, 2014). Lindenmayer et al. (1993b) found that populations of fewer than 50 individuals were predicted to be highly vulnerable to extinction within a 100 year timeframe, while populations of 200 animals or more were considered to be genetically and demographically stable over a 100 year period. Lindenmayer et al. (2012) undertook transition probability matrices of large trees with cavities through increasingly decayed condition states. They project severe decline in large trees with cavities by 2039, with decline continuing until at least 2067. These projections were noted as being highly optimistic due to the number of assumptions included in the analysis (e.g., paucity of future fire and logging) and the lack of cavity bearing trees is likely to be more severe than indicated in the projections. Lindenmayer et al. (2012) suggest that similar severe declines are expected for cavity-dependent species such as Leadbeater’s possum. Population viability analysis of Leadbeater’s possum was undertaken by Lumsden et al. (2013) to evaluate if the reserve system established as one of the key strategies for the conservation of Leadbeater’s possum was sufficient to support the long-term conservation of the species. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 28 of 53 291 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Lumsden et al. (2013) used survival and fecundity rates from models previously developed by Lindenmayer et al. (1993b), Lindenmayer and Possingham (1995a, b; 1996), and Lindenmayer and Lacy (1995) and the impact of fire to Leadbeater’s possum by fire models of Lindenmayer and Possingham (1995a, b). The modelling examined the impact of historic and more recent wildfires (i.e., fires in 1939, 1983, 1990, 2007 and 2009) on Leadbeater’s possum populations, the increased rate of loss of hollow-bearing trees reported by Lindenmayer et al. (2012), and potential impacts of future fires. The model predicts changes in the size of the Leadbeater’s possum reserve population over time based on the number of adult females from prior to the 1939 fires into the future. The reserve was established to incorporate priority areas for Leadbeater’s possum by including the highest quality habitat of old growth forest (compared to 1939 regrowth where dead hollow-bearing trees were collapsing) (Lumsden et al., 2013). There are no data that provide the number of females possums prior to 1939. The model therefore includes a variety of initial numbers of adult females, with the average being the adult carrying capacity as prescribed by the fire models of Lindenmayer and Possingham (1995a, b). Lumsden et al. (2013) assessed the probability that the number of adult females would fall below 500 individuals within a 200 year time frame. A 200 year time frame was selected because this related to the time it takes to develop hollows suitable to Leadbeater’s possum, and 200 years is equivalent to 40 generations of Leadbeater’s possum – a key time frame for assessing threatened species (Schaffer, 1981; Reed et al., 2003 cited in Lumsden et al., 2013). 500 individuals is a population size at which, declines below this level are considered to be more susceptible to loss of genetic variation and population changes due to unfavourable environmental conditions and catastrophic events (Lacy, 2000 cited in Lumsden et al., 2013). Scenarios were modelled with various combinations of habitat loss and future fires. All modelled scenarios resulted in a high probability that the population would fall below the critical 500 individual population size within the 200 year timeframe. While the reserve system was established to protect priority areas of Leadbeater’s possum habitat, the probability analysis of Lumsden et al. (2013) indicate that the reserves system is insufficient to provide for long-term persistence of Leadbeater’s possum. To be eligible for listing under this criterion, the species needs to have a quantitative probability of risk of extinction within set timeframes (e.g., 50 per cent probability). Generation length for Leadbeater’s possum is six years. Probability of extinction in the wild based on quantitative analysis for Leadbeater’s possum must be at least: (a) 50% in 18 years (critically endangered); (b) 20% in 30 years (endangered); or (c) 10% within 100 years (vulnerable). The modelling of Lumsden et al. (2013) finds a high probability of extinction (based on a critical population size of 500 individuals) in 200 years. The probability is quantified: There is a 75 per cent chance of the population falling below 500 individuals within a 200 year timeframe when there is no further loss of habitat. Future habitat loss scenarios of 12.5, 25, and 50 per cent (e.g., from loss of hollow-bearing trees) and further additional loss of habitat of 25 and 50 per cent from fires in 2020 are modelled, all indicate a 90 per cent chance or more of extinction (based on a critical population size of 500 individuals) in 200 years. The timeframe over which these analyses are assessed is 200 years, and not within the timeframes considered for this criterion. While it is likely that the data are available, these analyses under the timeframe of 200 years do not provide the specific quantitative probabilities required for meeting the thresholds of this criterion. Burns et al. (2014) undertook a quantitative assessment of the probability of ecosystem collapse of the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. They defined the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem as forest dominated by mountain ash but which may also contain alpine ash, shining gum, or at lower elevations messmate stringybark, mountain grey gum and red stringybark, and differentiation from other ecosystems also dominated by mountain ash (e.g., in other parts of Victoria and Tasmania) by other features including its distinctive vertebrate fauna and fauna, Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 29 of 53 292 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. such as Leadbeater’s possum – which is unique to this Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem among other forests dominated by mountain ash and restricting it to 157,000 ha within the Central Highlands of Victoria. Burns et al. (2014) defined three potential thresholds for ecosystem collapse of the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. One was where the abundance of hollow- bearing trees dropped below one per hectare averaged across the entire Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem. Burns et al. (2014) found that there was more than a 92 per cent chance of ecosystem collapse/ less than one hollow-bearing tree per hectare ecosystem-wide by 2067 (within 100 years). If less than one hollow-bearing tree per hectare equates to an unviable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum, and given that the Mountain Ash Forest is the core habitat of this species, this may be considered to equate to probability of extinction of Leadbeater’s possum, and thus meeting at least the 10 per cent likelihood of extinction within the 100 year timeframe for vulnerable under this criterion. As population viability analyses also indicate a high likelihood of populations less than 50 individuals (such as the remaining Leadbeater’s possums in the lowland habitats of Yellingbo), going extinct in the next 100 years (probabilities ranging from 10–100 per cent depending on the environmental variation) (Lindenmayer et al., 1993b), this accounts for all known Leadbeater’s possums. Conclusion for Criterion 5 Given the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem on which the montane populations of Leadbeater’s possum depend, have been estimated to become extinct within the next 100 years with at least a 10 per cent likelihood, and that the only known population of the species outside of this habitat is also predicted to become extinct in the next 100 years, with a greater than 10 per cent likelihood, the Committee considers that Leadbeater’s possum meets the eligibility for listing as -vulnerable under this criterion. Public Consultation Notice of the proposed amendment was made available for public comment for more than 30 business days between from 3 December 2013 to 24 January 2014. Comments received relevant to the survival of the species have been taken into account by the Committee. Recovery Plan There is a recovery plan in place for the species: Macfarlane et al. (1997) ‘Leadbeater’s Possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri) Recovery Plan’. This recovery plan was adopted as a national plan under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 in November 1997. Its objective was to downlist Leadbeater's possum from endangered to vulnerable within ten years based on the IUCN criteria of population trend and size, extent of occurrence, probability of extinction, and the management of habitat towards a target of no more than a one per cent probability of extinction over 250 years throughout the forest within its current range. This plan was transferred as an adopted recovery plan under the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 to an adopted plan under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 at the commencement of the Act on 16 July 2000. The Committee recommends that this plan (Macfarlane et al., 1997) should be retained and updated. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 30 of 53 293 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Recovery and Impact avoidance guidance Primary Conservation Objectives Increase the total population size and number of locations of subpopulations of Leadbeater’s possums. 1. Maintain, protect, restore and enhance existing habitat, especially key habitat attributes 2. Establish habitat links that include key habitat attributes between known population sites 3. Enable recovery of additional sites to increase habitat and population size 4. Provide for the establishment of additional populations. Important populations All populations of Leadbeater’s possum are important. The smaller sized Yellingbo lowland population is genetically distinct from the montane population and represents an important source of genetic diversity for the species, and is therefore important for the species as a whole. Important habitat for the survival of the species The key habitat attributes of Leadbeater’s possum across all forest types (LPAG, 2013), and therefore important habitat for the survival of the species, are: Hollow-bearing trees (for nest sites and refuge) with large internal dimensions in the order of 30 cm in diameter are a critical habitat feature for Leadbeater’s possums (LPAG, 2013), particularly and almost exclusively large old trees (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). Density of hollow-bearing trees is recognised as a critical habitat feature (e.g., DEPI, 2014). There are strong and quantified links between the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer at al., 1991c; Lindenmayer et al., 2013c; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a), with nest hollow availability the limiting factor to population size. Density of less than one hollow-bearing tree per hectare is considered to represent ecosystem collapse for the Mountain Ash Forest ecosystem (Burn et al., 2014). Predominance of smooth-barked eucalypts (with loose bark hanging in strips providing shelter for insect prey and material for nests) or gum-barked eucalypts (related to foraging behaviour) (Lindenmayer, 1996a; Harley, 2004a;b;c). Forest types of Leadbeater’s possum are most commonly ash forest typically dominated by mountain ash, alpine ash and shining gum. The species is also known to occur in subalpine woodlands and lowland swamp forest dominated by snow gum or mountain swamp gum (Smith and Hartley, 2008) with Melaleuca spp or Leptospermum spp in the middlestory (Harley et al., 2005). A structurally dense interlocking canopy or secondary tree layer of continuous interconnecting structure (to facilitate movement) (Lindenmayer, 1996a; Harley, 2004a;b;c), and A wattle understory (providing food) (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988; Menkhorst and Lumsden, 1995; DSE, 2013). Leadbeater’s possum colonies are territorial, defending areas of 1–3 hectares (Smith, 1984). Leadbeater’s possums appear to have critical minimum habitat size of around 12 ha (Lindenmayer et al., pers comm., 2014b). As the species indicates long-term site fidelity (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a), habitat where the species currently occurs is important habitat to maintain. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 31 of 53 294 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Habitats considered most likely to be currently occupied by Leadbeater’s possums are characterised by lush, unburnt vegetation in gullies, located in areas that have relatively low summer temperatures and high summer rainfall (Lumsden et al., 2013). An optimum habitat is an uneven-aged ash forest with a dense understory of wattle trees and a supply of hollow- bearing trees of between 4.2 – 10 per 3 ha (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988). Information required, research and monitoring priorities- All populations Investigate options to establish an effective means of detection, including further independent testing of the call-back survey technique and its assumptions for estimating population numbers of Leadbeater’s possums, to understand and reduce uncertainty. Undertake surveys and consolidate this data with existing data, and undertake an integrated monitoring program to provide increased understanding of: abundance of the whole species location of strongholds occupied habitat across all habitat types areas of key habitat attributes population statistics and trends threats and threat trends Identify and map habitat (including areas with key habitat attributes and occupied habitat) Improve understanding of habitat survival to identify landscape features and habitats that are resilient to natural disturbance processes such as bushfires. Evaluate the effectiveness of actions to support the recovery of Leadbeater’s possum through an adaptive management process Investigate population structure and genetic diversity and the potential effects of fragmentation between colonies Investigate the feasibility of insurance populations and translocations including: Genetic viability of the captive breeding program for the lowland subpopulation Feasibility of maintaining genetic distinction of the lowland subpopulation Wild to wild and captive to wild translocation options (should suitable habitat be available). Lowland subpopulation: Identify requirements for a planning regime that provides for appropriate suite of habitat structure (i.e., that simulates nature regeneration). Research appropriate regeneration techniques to simulate natural regeneration of mountain swamp gum and mid-story species in the floodplain of Yellingbo (including manipulative research trials), and the identification of quantitative vegetation condition targets. Identify former hydrological regime(s) (e.g., complete investigation through groundwater bores, track surface flow) to identify ideal conditions for future potential application, and Investigate techniques/applications to provide for restoration of former hydrological regime (e.g., manipulate water flow on the floodplain by weirs, earthworks). Explore/investigate the potential to provide for expansion of suitable lowland habitat to a network including other lowland patches, to reduce the risk to the population at this single isolated site, including identifying other sites that may be suitable for use by lowland colonies (or modified to become so). Management actions required All subpopulations Protect occupied habitat and areas with key habitat attributes from incompatible development activities such as road and track construction or maintenance in or adjacent to habitat, and recreational development in parks. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 32 of 53 295 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Prepare fire management plans to inform fire operations, planning, suppression and management. Implement fire management measures to protect Leadbeater’s possum colonies and habitat (particularly those that appropriately minimise the risks of high intensity fires) Develop fire recovery protocols to be enacted during and following fire or other disturbance that affect known colonies Maintain, protect, restore and enhance habitat (known occupied habitat, predicted occupied habitat, and potential future habitat) Montane populations: Provide for protected habitat linkages between known or modelled-predicted occupied habitat and colonies. Prevent further decline and rebuild the population through protecting all current and future Leadbeater’s possum habitat. Lowland population: Undertake management planning to provide for long term priority planning with targets (e.g., 10 year, 20 year plan) for application of management actions for habitat restoration and to address key threats to the lowland subpopulations Apply targeted vegetation management planning that provides for appropriate habitat structure and restoration, such as regimes for patch clearance / opening up of patches or other disturbance for regeneration. Control and minimise feral grazers that destroy saplings and prevent revegetation and habitat succession. Control and minimise weed species (e.g., phragmites) that compete and prevent revegetation and habitat succession. Apply / restore the former or most appropriate hydrological regime along Cockatoo Creek and Macclesfield Creek (e.g., manipulate water flow on the floodplain by weirs, earthworks). Provide for additional and/or insurance populations as determined appropriate following investigations under ‘Information required, research and monitoring priorities’. Recommendations (i) The Committee recommends that the list referred to in section 178 of the EPBC Act be amended by transferring from the endangered category to the critically endangered category: Gymnobelideus leadbeateri AND (ii) The Committee recommends that the current recovery plan should be retained and updated. The Committee considers the most effective way to prevent further decline and rebuild the population of Leadbeater’s possum is to cease timber harvesting within montane ash forests of the Central Highlands. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 33 of 53 296 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. 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Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Patten T (2014). Personal communications on the eligibility of Leadbeater’s Possum for listing as critically endangered. Submission 51 Provided to the Department of the Environment, by email 23 January 2014. Rawlinson PA and Brown PR (1977). The fairy possum. Early pessimism – recent optimism – future realism. Wildlife in Australia 14: 74–79. Reed DH, O’Grady JJ, Brook BW, Ballou JD and Frankham R (2003). Estimates of minimum viable population sizes for vertebrates and factors affecting those estimates. Biological Conservation 113: 23–34. Shaffer ML (1981). Minimum population sizes for species conservation. Bioscience 31: 131– 134. Smales IJ (1994). The discovery of Leadbeater's possum, Gymnobelideus leadbeateri McCoy, resident in a lowland swamp woodland. Victorian Naturalist 111: 178-182. Smith AP (1980). The diet and ecology of Leadbeater’s possum and the sugar glider. PhD Thesis, Monash University, Melbourne. Smith AP (1984). Demographic consequences of reproduction, dispersal and social interaction in a population of Leadbeater's Possum. Pp 359–373 in: Smith A and Hume I (eds) Possums and Gliders. Chipping Norton, NSW: Surrey Beatty & Sons. Smith, B (2014). Healesville: Leadbeater’s possum death fuels fear. The Age. 3 June 2014. Downloaded 13/10/14 from http://www.theweeklyreviewcity.com.au/story/1805356/healesville-leadbeater-s-possum- death-fuels-fears/events-calendar-city. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 39 of 53 302 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Smith AP and Hartley D (2008). Leadbeater’s Possum Gymnobelideus leadbeateri. Pp 226–228 in van Dyck S and Strahan R (eds) The Mammals of Australia. Third Edition. Reed New Holland, Sydney. Smith AP and Lindenmayer D (1988). Tree hollow requirements of Leadbeater’s possum and other possums and gliders in timber production ash forests of the Victorian Central Highlands. Australian Wildlife Research 15: 347–62. Strahan R (1998). The Mammals of Australia, Third Edition. Sydney, NSW: Australian Museum and Reed New Holland. Taylor C, McCarthy MA and Lindenmayer DB (2014). Nonlinear effects of stand age on fire severity. Conservation Letters: 7: 355. Turner V (2003). Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statement Number 130: Sedge-rich Eucalyptus camphora Swamp. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. VEAC (2012). Yellingbo investigation draft proposals paper for public comment, December 2012. Victorian Environmental Assessment Council. Downloaded 3/4/14 from http://www.veac.vic.gov.au/documents/Yellingbo%20DPP_web.pdf. VicForests (2014). Personal communication on the eligibility of Leadbeater’s Possum for listing as critically endangered. Submission 4 Provided to the Department of the Environment, by mail 10 January 2014. Wilkinson, HE (1961). The rediscovery of Leadbeater’s Possum Gymnobelideus leadbeateri McCoy. Victorian Naturalist 78: 97–102. Woinarski J, Burbidge A and Harrison P (2014). Leadbeater’s Possum in The Action Plan for Australian Mammals 2012. CSIRO Publishing. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 40 of 53 303 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Appendix 1 Assessment under Criterion 1 All data and analyses for Criterion 1 have a degree of uncertainty and the available data have different sources and assumptions that provide for some degree of over or under estimation that cannot be quantified. These are described within for each as comprehensively as possible and as understood by the Committee from the information available at the time of this assessment. The assessments that follow have attempted to ensure, where possible, that losses due to different causes, in this case fire, harvesting and loss of hollow-bearing trees have not been multiple-counted and consequently overestimate loss. Any potential multiple counting of loss has been indicated where suspected or known. This is an unavoidable consequence of the limitations of Criterion 1(c) that combines features of area (quantitative area of occupancy/extent of occurrence) and a less quantifiable/measurable ‘quality of habitat’ – that may overlap, as they do in this case. Similarly, where harvesting is considered, it is limited (where known) to unburnt harvest rather than post-burn salvage harvest, unless indicated otherwise. Primary sources of information used for this assessment include: Lindenmayer et al. pers. comm., (2014a): Lindenmayer and colleagues have used extensive site data over a number of years (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000) to model and estimate the amount of suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum available at 1989. Declines in ‘suitable habitat’ to 2013 caused by fire, logging, and loss of hollow-bearing trees are provided as percentage loss relative to this habitat. They use this loss to provide what they term to be a ‘crude estimate’ of current suitable habitat based on this modelling. Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) also provide data on trend in decline of hollow-bearing trees over the periods 1989–2013, 2013–2035, and 2035–2060. They note that these estimates are underestimates as they do not account for edge effects, the loss of habitat to wide strips between logging coupes, and subdivision causing habitat fragmentation. VicForests pers. comm. (2014) provide data for area (hectares) within the range of Leadbeater’s possum of public forest suitable for Leadbeater’s possum (ash forest including mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum). Most of these data are also provided in Appendix 4 of LPAG (2014a). For these forests, data are provided for the quantity burnt and not burnt since 2000. The information on ash forest is further categorised into ‘available for harvest’ and areas ‘never to be harvested’. The non-harvestable areas are divided into those managed as ‘parks and reserves’, areas of Special Protection Zones, and exclusions. VicForests pers. comm. (2014) also provide estimates of the area (ha) per annum harvested since 2009, and ‘projected are to be harvested pa post 2013’. LPAG (2014a) clarify that the ‘projected’ harvest is from 2017, following the transition to lower harvest levels outlined in ‘VicForests’ 2013 Resource Outlook’. LPAG (2014a, b) provide the table of data sourced from VicForests (as described above, but also provide information previously provided at LPAG (2013) and elsewhere such as that of Lumsden et al. (2014). Where these data differ to that of VicForests, it is assumed here to be due to the baseline being 2009, rather than that of ‘since 2000’ for VicForests. These data do not include lowland floodplain forest habitat used by Leadbeater’s possum, of which only 20 hectares provides suitable habitat conditions for the possum (D. Harley 2014 pers. comm., cited in DEPI, 2014). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 41 of 53 304 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Assumptions and data limitations Data available to the Committee for its use in assessment under Criterion 1 have come from different sources. Given that the criterion is a comparison of variables over time, it requires data from different years, or predictions into the future. In many cases data is available for a single point in time but is not comparable to data in the past. For Leadbeater’s possum, estimates of (c) area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat for the present time are difficult to determine and highly variable. The species is difficult to detect and estimates of occupancy and habitat may incorporate biases based on statistical assumptions (e.g., from sampling) as well as bias from sampling errors. These are exacerbated when projecting from these into the past or future. Data for future circumstances are invariably speculative and uncertain, and relies on a number of assumptions. Data from different sources are rarely comparable, particularly if there are assumptions or biases built into their collection. Much of the data or estimates are not in the public domain and/or not independently verified or peer reviewed. Area of occupancy, extent of occurrence, habitat quality Criterion 1 provides for reduction in population size based on a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence, and/or quality of habitat. The relationship between these and population size may be linear (and used as a direct proxy for population decline), but there may also be lagged response of the population to a decline in its habitat (IUCN, 2014). The relationship between loss of habitat quality and either occupation or population density may not be able to be estimated into the past or future. Combining estimates of decline in area of occupancy and extent of occurrence (where data may be spatial and quantifiable), with estimates of habitat quality (not spatial, less quantifiable) to provide for a single quantitative estimate of decline relative to the thresholds of the criterion is also difficult. Some declines from threats may overlap spatially over time. For example, fire and harvesting may occur on areas where decline in habitat quality has occurred, harvesting may occur in areas affected by fire. Efforts in the analysis have also been made to reduce the occurrence of double counting these losses where possible. The analyses undertaken for Criterion 1 for area of occupancy and extent of occurrence use data described as ‘estimates of occupied habitat’ or ‘suitable habitat’ within the Central Highlands (e.g., Lindenmayer and collegues; Lumsden et al., 2013), which differ significantly from estimates of ‘suitable forest’ within the Central Highlands (VicForests pers. comm., 2014; LPAG 2013, 2014a,b). Efforts have been made whenever possible to separate assessments using these different source estimates of area of occupancy and extent of occurrence in analyses for Criterion 1, given they are not compatible data. Assessment based on A2 (past) The period of time over which decline is considered for A2 is within a past 18 years (three generation lengths). In this instance, the 18 year period 1995–2013 is chosen to provide for inclusion of best available Leadbeater’s possum data from the ‘present’ (2013). This period includes declines observed, estimated, and inferred as a result of fire, harvesting and loss of habitat quality. There are different sources of data that provide different and incompatible information on which this assessment can be based. Given this, assessments will be presented separately. These are outlined as (a) and (b) below and undertaken as differing assessments. There are two sources of information which provide comprehensive estimates of current /potential area of occupancy or Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 42 of 53 305 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. extent of occurrence and comparable estimates from the past close to, or within, the 18 year time frame considered (3 generation lengths) for this criterion: a) Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm. (2014a). Comparisons of declines here are provided as percentage declines relative to forest at the year 1989. Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm. (2014a) provide data on decline in quality of habitat due to loss of hollow-bearing trees. The period 1989 to 2013 is 24 years used in this assessment rather than the 18 period required for this assessment, will therefore potentially provide an overestimate of decline for the whole 18 year period. b) VicForests pers. comm. (2014) and LPAG (2014a) use a different baseline to that of Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., (2014a). These provide data on area lost to fire and fire disturbance (in hectares) ‘from 2000’ to the present (2013) and include change due to the 2006/07 and 2009 fires (combined). This source also provides past harvest rates for some of these years. Assessment under A2 using this data will consider the 18 year period from 2013 to 1995, but data is only provided ‘from 2000’. This shortened timeframe will therefore potentially provide an underestimate of decline for the whole 18 year period. These data sources will be used for the following two assessments under A2. Additional or alternative information is included within these analyses where comparable. LPAG (2013; 2014a) provide different estimates of the percentage of forest lost to fire. The estimates of LPAG (2013; 2014a) are instead based only on the 2009 fires, rather than fires ‘since 2000’ [of VicForests pers. comm., (2014); LPAG (2014a)]. In addition, these have a ‘pre 2009’ baseline of 195 000 ha, with a loss of 68,000 ha to fire of 34% (LPAG, 2014a) or 35% (LPAG, 2013). The timeframe for this change is only four years, and will be an underestimate of decline relative to the similar alternative data provided by VicForests. This data will therefore not be used for this A2 assessment (but will be included within subsequent assessments with more relevant timeframes). a) Using data of Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) ‘Suitable habitat’ available at 1995 Hollow-bearing trees with large internal dimensions in the order of 30 cm in diameter are a critical habitat feature for Leadbeater’s possums (LPAG, 2013) and are required within ash forest to support colonies of the possum. There are strong and quantified links between the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer at al., 1991c; Lindenmayer et al., 2013c; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a), with nest hollow availability limiting population size. An understory of wattle is also a required component of Leadbeater’s possum habitat (Smith and Lindenmayer, 1988; Menkhorst and Lumsden, 1995; DSE, 2013). Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) have undertaken large scale vegetation surveys in the central highlands of Victoria since 1987 (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000). Their data layers indicate that in1987 and 1989 montane ash forest was represented by 171,200 ha. Of this available montane ash forest, only 6.7% was predicted to support ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum at this time (i.e. approximately 11,470 ha). This estimate was based on measures of the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the prevalence of an understorey of Acacia spp. This data, based on ‘suitable habitat’, is therefore likely to represent area of occupancy for Leadbeater’s possum. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 43 of 53 306 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Loss from habitat decline (loss of hollows) 1989 to 2013 In 1997, the abundance of hollow-bearing trees was estimated to have occurred as 5.1 hollow- bearing trees per hectare and by 2013 had declined to 4 per hectare ecosystem-wide (Lindenmayer et al., 2012; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). From repeated studies of the rate and spatial extent of decay and collapse of hollow-bearing trees throughout montane ash forest, Lindenmayer et al. (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000) estimate that of 6.7% of ash forest predicted to support potentially suitable habitat in 1989, by 2014 this will decline to 3.1% (= loss of 3.6% (absolute loss)). Loss from fire 1989 to 2013 Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) estimate that of the 6.7% possum-suitable habitat in montane ash forest, around 1.4% has been lost to fire or fire disturbance since 1989. Loss from harvesting 1989 to 2013 Lindenmayer et al., (pers. comm., 2014a) estimate that 19,338 ha of montane ash forest in the Central Highlands has been lost to harvesting since late 1997, including areas predicted to support suitable Leadbeater’s possum habitat. This estimated loss from harvest does not include post burn salvage harvest. They also estimate that clearfell logging since 1989 has lead to 0.6% of the montane ash forest predicted to support suitable habitat being lost. They note that this is a conservative estimate because this does not also include the loss of other areas that have been rendered uninhabitable by harvesting – i.e. areas left as narrow strips (of approximately 20–100 m wide) that are unlikely to support Leadbeater’s possum (Lindenmayer et al., 1993) and areas fragmented by logging roads and tracks that may have rendered areas too small for Leadbeater’s possums. Table 1 summarises the decline in ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum from fire, harvesting and loss of quality from 1989 to the present following Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). Table 1. Declines in ‘suitable habitat’ from 1989–2013 based on data from Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). ‘Suitable habitat’ at 1989 is 6.7% of Of 11,470 ha ‘Suitable habitat’ loss (relative to 171,200 ha remaining at 2013 11,470 ha =11,470 ha (baseline) (1.1% of 171,200 ha) baseline) Estimated loss by 2013: Loss -habitat quality from loss of hollows* 3.6% 6,163 ha 53.7% -fire and fire disturbance* 1.4% 2,397 ha 20.9% -harvesting* 0.6% 1,027 ha 9.0% Total loss by 2013 5.6% 9,587 ha Total 1,883 ha* ...83% Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) calculates: 5.4% 2,225 ha 81% [*these % estimates attempt to allocate a % loss to each threat independent of each other, and may include some small degree of multiple counting] ---- The decline of ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum over the past 18 years through fire, harvesting, and a reduction in availability in hollow-bearing trees estimated primarily by data collected over a number of years (since 1987) and modelled and tested Lindenmayer et al. (e.g., Lindenmayer, 1989; Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000) is therefore over 80%. This is considered by the Committee to be very severe. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 44 of 53 307 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. b) Using baseline data of VicForests pers. comm. (2014) and LPAG (2014a) Suitable forest available at 1995 While the assessment above at (a) uses data that focuses on ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum, data of VicForests pers. comm. (2014) and LPAG (2014a) includes all ash forest, including mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum forest within the home range of Leadbeater’s possum within the Central, Dandenong and Central Gippsland Forest Management Areas. This data is provided noting that this forest type is ‘suitable forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum. However, ‘suitable forest’ is an overestimate of suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum, because not all ash forest is suitable for use by Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer et al., 1990; 1991a, b; 2000; Lumsden et al., 2013) with Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) estimating that in 1987 and 1989 only 6.7% of montane ash forest in the Central Highlands was ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum. There are no precise data available to the Committee that provide the baseline amount of montane ash forest available to Leadbeater’s possum at 1995 (i.e. 18 years prior to the ‘present’ 2013). ‘Since 2000’, there was 204,400 ha ash forest (including mountain ash, alpine ash, shining gum and snow gum forest) considered to be suitable forest types for Leadbeater’s possum within the home range of Leadbeater’s possum and within the Central, Dandenong and Central Gippsland Forest Management Areas (VicForests pers. comm., 2014). Decline from fire: Leadbeater’s possums do not occupy burnt sites regardless of fire intensity (Lindenmayer et al., 2013a; LPAG, 2013; Lumsden et al., 2013). Of the 204,400 ha ‘available forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum ‘since 2000’, 55,300 ha (27%) has been burnt since 2000 (VicForests pers. comm., 2014). A total area of 149,100 ha ash forest remains unburnt at 2013 (Table 2). Table 2. Loss of ‘suitable forest’ from fire 1995 to 2013 (area data from VicForests pers. comm. (2014) ‘since 2000’) Loss at 2013 from burn ‘since 2000’ Ash forest total 204 400 ha Burnt since 2000 55 300 ha 27% Remaining (unburnt) since 2000 149 100 ha Loss to harvesting Of this unburnt 149,100 ha remaining ash forest/’suitable forest’: 44,700 ha are available for harvesting (VicForests pers. comm., 2014). Ash or snow gum woodland available for harvesting excludes parks and reserves, Special Protection Zones, stream buffers and steep slopes and non-mapped exclusions. 104,400 ha are excluded from harvesting (VicForests pers. comm., 2014) (Table 3). Table 3. Remaining unburnt ‘suitable forest’/ash forest available for harvest (area data from VicForests pers. comm. (2014) ‘since 2000’) Total unburnt ash forest at 2013 149,100 ha Unburnt ash forest excluded from harvesting total 104,400 ha Unburnt ash forest available for harvest 44,700 ha VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) estimated that of the 44,700 ha area of harvestable ash forest ‘since 2000’, 610 ha has been harvested or thinned per annum since 2009 i.e., approximately 2,440 ha over 4 years to 2013, representing a further decline of 1.2% in ‘suitable forest’ since fires due to harvesting. 42,260 ha unharvested forest within the ‘harvestable’ areas is therefore ‘suitable forest’ at 2013 in addition to that of the ash forest excluded from harvesting (104,400 ha) (Table 4). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 45 of 53 308 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Table 4. Unburnt ‘suitable forest’ at 2013. excluded from harvesting total 104,400 ha available for harvest minus harvested area (i.e. 2,440 44,700 ha – 2,440 ha ha) at 2013 = 42,260 ha ‘suitable forest’ at 2013 = 146,660 ha Table 5 provides the loss to 2013 from fire and harvest relative to the 204,400 ha baseline (VicForests pers. comm., 2014) which is 28%. The Committee notes that Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) estimate that 19,338 ha of ‘montane ash forest in the Central Highlands’ has been lost to harvesting since late 1997, including areas predicted to support suitable Leadbeater’s possum habitat. If this amount is compared to the 204,400 ha ash forest available ‘after 2000’ of VicForests (pers. comm., 2014), this would represent a decline of 9.5%. These data are not comparable, for instance, this harvest estimate is since 1997 rather than since 2000, and may include areas subsequently lost to 206/7 and 2009 fires, but this provides an upper extreme potential of harvest and is included in Table 5. Table 5. Loss from fire and harvest (relative to baseline of 204,400 ha) Harvested by % loss due to % loss relative to original 2013 harvest relative to 204,400 ha ash forest original 204,400 ha ash forest Harvest per annum since 2009 (over 4 years) (VicForests pers. comm., 2014) 610 ha 2,440 ha 1.2% 28% Harvest since 1997* Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) 19,338 ha 9.5% 36% * noting the harvest estimated here is not directly comparable to the baseline of VicForests (pers. comm., 2014). Decline due to loss of habitat quality (loss of hollow-bearing trees): The abundance of hollow-bearing trees in 1997 is estimated to have been 5.1 hollow-bearing trees per hectare ecosystem-wide. By 2013 the abundance is estimated to be 4 per hectare (Lindenmayer et al., 2012; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a). This represents a decline in quality of habitat (of 22%) for Leadbeater’s possum over this period of time. This loss is applied to the remaining ‘suitable forest’ following loss from fire and harvesting. Table 6 provides the total estimated loss from fires, harvesting and loss of quality if a 22% decline from loss of hollow-bearing trees is added to the declines estimated at Table 5. Lindenmeyer et al., (pers. comm., 2014a) also note a complete loss of habitat through loss of hollow-bearing trees from 1989 to 2013 of 55.7% (i.e. see Table 1). This loss is also included in Table 6. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 46 of 53 309 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Table 6. Estimated declines from fire, harvest and loss in habitat quality to from 1995 to 2013 (from 204,400ha). Harvest per Loss from Harvested % loss Remaining Total loss Total annum since fire by 2013 from fire following an loss 2009 and additional 22% (VicForests harvest loss in quality of pers comm., relative to the remaining 2014) original ‘suitable forest’ 204,400 ha ash forest Loss of 22% in quality (loss of 55,300 ha 2,440 ha 32,265 ha) 610 ha (27%) (1.2%) 28% 146,660 ha =114,395 ha 44% Loss of 53.7% (loss of 78,756 ha) =67,904 ha n67% Decline from 1995 to 2013 Using 204,400 ha of ash forest as a baseline, decline by fire, habitat quality, and harvesting results in an overall decline in ‘suitable forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum of 44% or 67% (depending on the loss used for decline in hollow-bearing trees (Table 6)). The Committee considers this decline to be -substantial to -severe. Assessment based on A3 (future) The period of time over which decline is considered for A3 is a future 18 years. Data on change in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat from a future period to a period further into the future is speculative and therefore to reduce the level of uncertainty, the period chosen includes the present (as 2013 with data provided for this assessment) to enable inclusion of known information about the present time (rather than some other future time). The period from 2013 to 2031 therefore includes the future, with declines projected and suspected due to: projected harvesting projected decline in tree hollows inferred/suspected extent of occurrence due to likelihood of future fire damage. Like the assessment at A2, there are various sources of information which are not necessarily compatible, that can be used to inform the assessment under A3. There are three sources of information which provide area estimates to estimate area of occupancy, extent of occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum at 2013: Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., (2014a) VicForests pers. comm., (2014) and LPAG (2014a) Lumsden et al. (2013) Each of these is included in the following assessment. There is one source of information on projected harvest rates: with three potential projected declines from harvesting provided by VicForests pers. comm. (2014) + LPAG (2014a). There is one source of information on projected decline in tree hollows (Lindenmayer and colleagues) which is considered to be decline in habitat quality. There are no data available that can provide quantitative estimates of future decline as a result of fire. A range of potential Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 47 of 53 310 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. declines due to likelihood of loss in area of occupancy and/or extent of occurrence due to fire are therefore considered. These are all included within the following analyses, where able, to estimate decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat from 2013 to 2031. Estimates of area of occupancy and/or extent of occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum at 2013 a) Using occupancy modelling, Lumsden et al. (2013) predict that within the ‘ash forests of the Central Highlands’, there are only approximately 15,000 ha of forest currently occupied by Leadbeater’s possum. b) In 1989, a total of 25 of 370 field sites (6.7%) surveyed as part of a large-scale vegetation survey were predicted to support suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum (Lindenmayer, 1989). Reduction in the number of hollow-bearing trees, fire effects and clearfell logging has reduced the amount of suitable habitat to 1.3 per cent of the montane ash forest estate. On this basis, Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) provide a crude estimate that approximately 2,225 ha remaining ash forest is currently suitable as habitat for Leadbeater’s possum. c) Following the rationale provided at A2 based on data from VicForests pers. comm. (2014): there are 104,400 ha of unburnt ash forest within the range of Leadbeater’s possum that are protected through parks and reserves, Special Protection Zones, and harvest exclusions (VicForests pers. comm., 2014). Within the unburnt 44,700 ha available for harvesting, an estimated minimum of 2,440 ha is estimated to have been harvested or thinned since 2009 leaving less than 42,260 ha unharvested ash forest at present. Therefore, there are currently approximately 146,660 ha of ash forest within the range of Leadbeater’s possum that could be considered to be ‘suitable forest’ for Leadbeater’s possum. There are therefore three estimates of the area of occupancy or extent of occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum at 2013, as provided in Table 7. Table 7. Estimated available area of occupancy, extent of occurrence (ha) available for Leadbeater’s possum at 2013. Source and type of estimation Estimated available area of occupancy, extent of occurrence a) Estimated occupied forest at 2013 (Lumsden et al., 2013) 15,000 ha b) Predicted available ‘suitable habitat’ (Lindenmayer et al., pers. 2,225 ha comm., 2014a) c) Maximum available ‘suitable forest’ (unburnt and unharvested ash 146,660 ha forest) (VicForests pers. comm., 2014 + LPAG, 2014a) and following A2 Estimated loss of area of occupancy, extent of occurrence from 2013 to 2031 due to harvesting At 2013, it is estimated that there are 42,260 ha of unburnt ash forest available for harvesting (following data presented at A2). This is the maximum possible harvest by 2031 and is used for assessment under (c). The average rate of harvest and thinning of both burnt and unburnt ash forest from 2009 to 2013 was around 1,265 ha per annum (VicForests pers. comm., 2014; LPAG, 2014b). The amount harvested and thinned within unburnt ash forest between 2009 to 2013 was 610 ha per annum (and 655 per annum in burnt forest). VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) estimates that 500–1000 ha ash forest is projected to be harvested per annum after 2013. LPAG (2014b) notes that this is a reduction in harvest rate implemented in ash forests within the range of Leadbeater’s possum in response to the 2009 fire, and will be from 2017 as outlined in VicForests’ 2013 Resource Outlook. Neither of these Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 48 of 53 311 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. sources provide a distinction between harvest rates in burnt and unburnt forest for this future harvest. Given the uncertainty from when this rate will commence (i.e., either ‘post 2013’, or ‘from 2017’) it is assumed here that the former rate (of 610 ha pa) will continue to 2017 within unburnt ash forest. The following assessment will provide the loss due to harvest and thinning in unburnt ash forest (containing potential Leadbeater’s possum habitat) using this rate to 2017. From 2017 to 2031 the rate of harvest will use the predicted reduced rate of 500 ha and 1000 ha pa. The Committee notes, however, that this rate is assumed to be across all ash forest within the range of Leadbeater’s possum, and unlike the former rate of 610 ha pa, includes burnt and unburnt ash forest. This will therefore provide for an overestimation of harvest, and loss of ‘suitable forest’ over the years 2017 to 2031. Three harvest rates are therefore included: 3050 ha (harvested at 610 ha per annum from 2013 to 2017) + 6,500 ha (when harvested at the lower rate of 500 ha/annum from 2017 to 2031) =9,550 ha 3050 ha (harvested at 610 ha per annum from 2013 to 2017) + 13,000 ha (when harvested at the higher rate of 1000 ha/annum from 2017 to 2031) =16,050 ha All harvestable forest (i.e. 42,260 ha) might be harvested between 2013 and 2031. The three scenarios of loss from harvesting equate to 6.5%, 10.9% and 28.8% loss respectively relative to the 146,660 ha available at 2013. Table 8 provides the remaining extent of occurrence/area of occupancy to the original baselines at 2013 of (a) Lumsden et al. (2013) and (b) Lindenmayer et al (pers. comm., 2014a) following the application of the declines (%) under the three scenarios relative to the baseline of (c) (VicForests pers. comm., 2014 + LPAG, 2014a). (a) Of the 15,000 ha of habitat estimated by Lumsden et al. (2013) to be occupied at 2013 using occupancy modelling, current strongholds include habitat mainly in the south of the Central Highlands including the Baw Baw Plateau and its southern slopes, the Toorongo Plateau south of the Upper Yarra Catchment and state forest in the vicinity of Powelltown, parts of Toolangi State Forest, and southern parts of the Upper Yarra National Park (Lumsden et al., 2013). Lumsden et al. (2013) note that these areas occur both within the reserve system and outside of these protected areas, however the proportions of these are not described by Lumsden et al. (2013). As some areas occur outside of the protected areas, it is likely that some will be subject to loss due to future harvesting. Of the three harvest loss scenarios of 6.5%, 10.9% and 28.8% are applied to the area estimates of Lumsden et al. (2013), it assumes that this forest is harvested at the same rates as applied generally, with these areas neither avoided or targeted for harvesting. The Committee notes that under future management this is unlikely to be the case, but the result of these theoretical harvests are provided in Table 8 for consideration of the potential loss without the application of future proposed management change. (b) Similarly, of the 2,225 ha remaining suitable habitat for Leadbeater’s possum estimated by Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a), some is expected to occur within areas projected for harvesting. The Committee is unaware of the quantity of harvestable forest that could be harvested by 2031 within these areas estimated to be occupied or estimated as ‘suitable habitat’ for Leadbeater’s possum at 2013 indicated by Lumsden et al. (2014) and Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a). Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 49 of 53 312 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Table 8. Extent of occurrence /area of occupancy Possible lost to harvest from 2013 to 2031 Total Loss to Loss to possible area harvest lost from Area harvest loss to estimation at from harvest since remaining at from 2013 harvest (ha) 2013 2017 to 2013 2031 to 2017 from 2013 2031 to 2031 a) Lumsden et al. (2013)1 15,000 ha 6.5% 14,025 ha 10.9% 13,365 ha 28.8% 10,680 ha b) Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a)1 2,225 ha 6.5% 2080 ha 10.9% 1982 ha 28.8% 1584 ha (c) Maximum available unburnt and unharvested ash forest (ha) (VicForests pers. comm., 2014) 146,660 ha (c) When harvested at 610 ha to 2013 (610 x 5) 3,050 ha c)* If harvested at min projected rate from 2017 (500 ha x 13 +6,500 years) ha =9,550 ha 6.5% 137,110 ha c)* If harvested at high projected rate from 2017 (1000ha x 13 +13,000 years) ha =16,050 ha 10.9% 130,610 ha c) If all harvestable unburnt ash forest is =42,260 ha harvested 28.8% 104,400 ha 1 loss from harvesting is applied to baseline areas of (a) and (b) at the three percentage declines found for harvest rates relative to baseline area of (c). This assumes the application of harvesting is neither avoiding or concentrating on these areas considered to be Leadbeater’s possum habitat by these authors. * harvest rate provided does not distinguish between burnt and unburnt forest harvesting. Thus this loss may include some double counting of loss from harvest and fire, and therefore be a slight over-estimation. Estimated decline in habitat quality from 2013 to 2031 due to loss of hollows There have been significant losses of hollow-bearing trees in past decades (LPAG, 2013). The combination of the loss of existing hollow-bearing trees and a lack of formation of new hollows is predicted to lead to a severe shortage of hollows in the next 30–70 years (LPAG, 2013). Hollow-bearing trees with large internal dimensions in the order of 30 cm in diameter are a critical habitat feature for Leadbeater’s possums (LPAG, 2013). Leadbeater’s possums are more likely to occur in areas with higher densities of hollow-bearing trees, such as areas with more than two or three hollow-bearing trees per hectare (LPAG, 2013). There are strong and quantified links between the abundance of hollow-bearing trees and the occurrence of Leadbeater’s possum (e.g., Lindenmayer at al., 1991c; Lindenmayer et al., 2013c; Lindenmayer et al., pers. comm., 2014a), with nest hollow availability limiting population size. A decline in the number of hollow-bearing trees therefore corresponds to a decline in the number of mature individuals of Leadbeater’s possum, noting there may be a lagged response. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 50 of 53 313 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Lindenmayer and colleagues have undertaken extensive vegetation surveys since the 1980s to study the rate and spatial extent of decay and collapse of hollow-bearing trees throughout the montane ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria. Based on empirical data and modelling of the ongoing collapse of hollow-bearing trees between 1983 and 2012 in unburned areas (see Lindenmayer et al., 1990, 1997; Lindenmayer and Wood, 2010; Lindenmayer et al., 2012), Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) estimate the decline of hollow-bearing trees will be from more than four per ha ecosystem wide in 2013 to 1.5 per ha by 2035. Because Leadbeater’s possums are less likely to occur in areas with less than two or three hollow- bearing trees per hectare (LPAG, 2013), this represents a significant decline in habitat quality. A decline from 4 to 1.5 hollow-bearing trees per hectare from 2013 to 2035 represents a decline in habitat quality of 63% ecosystem-wide over this time. A further decline of 63% relative to that remaining following harvest from each of the original habitat estimates at 2013 are provided at Table 9. These percentage declines are applied to remaining area after harvesting (so as not to double count). Table 9 provides the estimated remaining area after these combined losses, and a combined percentage loss. Table 9. Estimated loss of habitat quality due to loss of hollow-bearing trees 2013–2031 Source of estimate After harvest/ 63% loss of habitat Loss (from unharvested area quality (from harvest and remaining at 2013 remaining area) quality) (a) following Lumsden et al. (2013) baseline of15,000 ha If harvested at min. projected rate 14,025 ha 5,189 ha 65% =6.5% loss If harvested at max. projected rate 13,365 ha 4,945 ha 67% =10.9% If all available harvestable forest is 10,680 ha 3,952 ha 74% harvested =28.8% (b) following Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) baseline of 2,225 ha If harvested at min. projected rate 2,080 ha 770 ha 65% =6.5% loss If harvested at max. projected rate 1,982 ha 733 ha 67% =10.9% If all available harvestable forest is 1,584 ha 586 ha 74% harvested =28.8% (c) following VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) baseline of 146,660 ha *If harvested at min. projected rate 137,110 ha 50,731 ha 65% =6.5% loss *If harvested at max. projected rate 130,610 ha 48,326 ha =10.9% loss 71% If all available harvestable forest is 104,400 ha 38,628 ha 74% harvested =28.8%loss * harvest rate provided does not distinguish between burnt and unburnt forest harvesting. Thus, this loss may include some double counting of loss from harvest and fire, and therefore be a slight over-estimation. Loss due to fire 2013–2031 Scenarios include no fire, low to medium likelihood of fire impact (e.g., of 12.5% and 20%), and a 50% likelihood of fire impact. A 35% loss from fire scenario is also included, because 35% loss was that lost to ash forest and snow gum woodlands ‘suitable forest’ from the 2009 fires. These potential reductions are applied to the estimated areas remaining following loss from harvest and quality loss (i.e. if fire occurs at the end of the 18 year period). These are included in Table 10. The range of decline from these causes range from 63% to 87%. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 51 of 53 314 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. Table 10. Loss to remaining area of occupancy/extent of occurrence after harvesting, loss of hollow-bearing trees (loss of quality) and from a range of potential fire scenarios from 2013 to 2031 (fire impacts to the area already harvested and loss of quality). Area Area Area % total remaining remaining at remaining at loss at 2031 2031 after 2031 after after harvest and further loss harvest 63% loss of from fire (% quality loss to post harvest, post quality area) a) Estimated occupied habitat at 2013 (ha): 15,000 ha1 (following Lumsden et al. , 2013) 14,025 ha 5,189 ha If 0% lost through fire by 2031 5,189 ha 65% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 4,540 ha 70% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 4,151 ha 72% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 3,373 ha 77% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 2,594 ha 83% a) Estimated occupied habitat at 2013 (ha): 15,000 ha2 (following Lumsden et al. , 2013) 13,365 ha 4,945 ha - If 0% lost through fire by 2031 4,945 ha 67% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 4,327 ha 71% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 3,956 ha 74% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 3,214 ha 79% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 2,472 ha 83% a) Estimated occupied habitat at 2013 (ha): 15,000 ha3 (following Lumsden et al. , 2013) 10,680 ha 3,952 ha - If 0% lost through fire by 2031 3,952 ha 74% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 3,458 ha 77% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 3,162 ha 79% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 2,569 ha 83% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 1,976 ha 87% b) Estimated ‘suitable habitat’ at 2013 (ha): 2,225 ha1 (following Lindenmayer et al. pers. comm., 2014a) 2,080 ha 770 ha • If 0% lost through fire by 2031 820 ha 63% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 674 ha 70% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 616 ha 72% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 500 ha 77% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 385 ha 83% b) Estimated ‘suitable habitat’ at 2013 (ha): 2,225 ha2 (following Lindenmayer et al. pers. comm., 2014a) 1,982 ha 733 ha - If 0% lost through fire by 2031 733 ha 67% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 641 ha 71% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 586 ha 74% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 476 ha 79% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 367 ha 83% b) Estimated ‘suitable habitat’ at 2013 (ha): 2,225 ha3 (following Lindenmayer et al. pers. comm., 2014a) 1,584 ha 586 ha - If 0% lost through fire by 2031 586 ha 74% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 513 ha 78% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 469 ha 79% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 381 ha 83% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 293 ha 87% 1 c)* Estimated ‘suitable forest’ at 2013 (ha): 146,660 ha 137,110 ha 50,731 ha If 0% post harvest and quality lost though fire by 2031 50,731 ha •65% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 44,390 ha 70% Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 52 of 53 315 The Minister approved this conservation advice on 22/4/2015; and transferred this species from the endangered to the critically endangered category, effective from 2/5/2015. If 20% lost through fire by 2031 40,585 ha 72% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 32,975 ha 77% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 25,365 ha 83% 2 c)* Estimated ‘suitable forest’ at 2013 (ha): 146,660 ha 130,610 ha 48,326 ha If 0% lost through fire by 2031 48,326 ha -67% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 42,285 ha 71% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 38,661 ha 74% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 31,412 ha 79% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 24,263 ha 83% 3 c) Estimated ‘suitable forest’ at 2013 (ha): 146,660 ha 104,400 ha 38,628 ha If 0% lost through fire by 2031 38,628 ha -73% If 12.5% lost through fire by 2031 37,997 ha 74% If 20% lost through fire by 2031 30,902 ha 79% If 35% lost through fire by 2031 25,108 ha 83% If 50% lost through fire by 2031 19,314 ha 87% 1 at minimum harvest rate (6.5% loss) 2 at maximum harvest rate (10.1% loss) 3 • at maximum possible harvest (28.8% loss) * the harvest rate provided post 2013/ after 2017 does not distinguish between burnt and unburnt forest harvesting. This loss may, therefore, include some double counting of loss from harvest and fire, and therefore be a slight over- estimation. Areas burnt would include areas already included to have lost habitat quality, and therefore the total loss is slightly overestimated. As the analysis provides for outcomes from a range of scenarios, including no fire, these results do not include the quantitative probability of fire occurring within this time period. Assessment based on A4 (past and future) The period of time considered for A4 is a three generation length period (18 years) including both the past and the future. Because most data on change in area of occupancy/extent of occurrence and quality is available from the periods that include the 2006/7 and 2009 bushfires, this assessment under A4 incorporate times that include these events. LPAG (2013; 2014a) provide data for hectares of forest lost during the 2009 fires relative to ‘area of potential habitat’. The ‘area of potential habitat’ as 100% range of Leadbeater’s possum is provided by LPAG (2013) as 195,000 ha. However, there is no indication of whether this ‘potential habitat’ is unburnt and prior to 2009 (in which case a proportion would be unsuitable) or current post 2009 ‘potential habitat’ excluding burnt areas. As Lindenmayer et al. (pers. comm., 2014a) data uses a baseline of 1987 and 1989, and their estimations of harvest lost relative to this baseline is from late 1997, the 18 year period potentially for consideration here under A4 would only extend to 2015. Because the result from assessment over this time period would be very similar to that provided under A2 (to 2013), analysis using this 1997 baseline data will not be considered further for A4. Analyses for this subcriterion using data ‘since 2000’ of VicForests (pers. comm., 2014) similarly, do not provide data that would be different from analyses under A2, with the 18 year period under consideration extending to 2018. There are no additional known baseline data for just prior to 2006 or 2009 to provide for consideration of change in area of occupancy/extent of occurrence and quality for A4. There are therefore inadequate data to provide for baselines alternative to those already considered under A2 and A3. Assessment under A4 is therefore not evaluated here. Gymnobelideus leadbeateri (Leadbeater’s possum) Conservation Advice Page 53 of 53 316 No. VID 1228 of 2017 Federal Court of Australia District Registry: Victoria Division: ACLHR FRIENDS OF LEADBEATER’S POSSUM INC Applicant VICFORESTS Respondent ANNEXURE 7 TO AGREED STATEMENT OF FACTS Approved conservation advice for Greater Glider 2016 Filed on behalf of (name & role of party) Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc, the Applicant Prepared by (name of person/lawyer) Danya Jacobs Law firm (if applicable) Environmental Justice Australia Tel (03) 8341 3100 Fax (03) 8341 3111 Email [email protected] Address for service Level 3, 60 Leicester Street (include state and postcode) CARLTON VIC 3053 317 THREATENED SPECIES SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE Established under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Minister included this species in the Vulnerable category, effective from 5 May 2016. The Delegate of the Minister approved this conservation advice on 25 May 2016. Conservation Advice Petauroides volans greater glider Note: The information contained in this Conservation Advice was primarily sourced from ‘The Action Plan for Australian Mammals 2012’ (Woinarski et al., 2014). Any substantive additions obtained during the consultation on the draft have been cited within the advice. Readers may note that Conservation Advices resulting from the Action Plan for Australian Mammals show minor differences in formatting relative to other Conservation Advices. These reflect the desire to efficiently prepare a large number of advices by adopting the presentation approach of the Action Plan for Australian Mammals, and do not reflect any difference in the evidence used to develop the recommendation. Taxonomy Conventionally accepted as Petauroides volans (Kerr 1792). This is the only species in the genus. Two subspecies are conventionally recognised: P. v. minor (in north-eastern Queensland) and P. v. volans (in south-eastern Australia). Summary of assessment Conservation status Vulnerable: Criterion 1 A2(b)(c), A3(b)(c), A4(b)(c) Species can be listed as threatened under state and territory legislation. For information on the listing status of this species under relevant state or territory legislation, see http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl. Reason for conservation assessment by the Threatened Species Scientific Committee This advice follows assessment of new information provided to the Committee to list Petauroides volans. Public Consultation Notice of the proposed amendment and a consultation document was made available for public comment for 40 business days between 30 September 2015 and 25 November 2015. Any comments received that were relevant to the survival of the species were considered by the Committee as part of the assessment process. Species Information Description The greater glider is the largest gliding possum in Australia, with a head and body length of 35−46 cm and a long furry tail measuring 45−60 cm. The greater glider has thick fur that increases its apparent size. Its fur colour is white or cream below and varies from dark grey, dusky brown through to light mottled grey and cream above. It has large furry ears and a short snout. Its tail is not prehensile (McKay 2008; NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, n.d). Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 318 Page 1 of 16 Distribution The greater glider is restricted to eastern Australia, occurring from the Windsor Tableland in north Queensland through to central Victoria (Wombat State Forest), with an elevational range from sea level to 1200 m above sea level. An isolated inland subpopulation occurs in the Gregory Range west of Townsville (Winter et al., 2004), and another in the Einasleigh Uplands (Vanderduys et al., 2012). The broad extent of occurrence is unlikely to have changed appreciably since European settlement (van der Ree et al., 2004). However, the area of occupancy has decreased substantially mostly due to land clearing. This area is probably continuing to decline due to further clearing, fragmentation impacts, fire and some forestry activities. Kearney et al. (2010) predicted a ‘stark’ and ‘dire’ decline (‘almost complete loss’) for the northern subspecies P. v. minor if there is a 3o C temperature increase. Relevant Biology/Ecology The greater glider is an arboreal nocturnal marsupial, largely restricted to eucalypt forests and woodlands. It is primarily folivorous, with a diet mostly comprising eucalypt leaves, and occasionally flowers (Kehl & Borsboom 1984; Kavanagh & Lambert 1990; van der Ree et al., 2004). It is typically found in highest abundance in taller, montane, moist eucalypt forests with relatively old trees and abundant hollows (Andrews et al., 1994; Smith et al., 1994, 1995; Kavanagh 2000; Eyre 2004; van der Ree et al., 2004; Vanderduys et al., 2012). The distribution may be patchy even in suitable habitat (Kavanagh 2000). The greater glider favours forests with a diversity of eucalypt species, due to seasonal variation in its preferred tree species (Kavanagh 1984). During the day it shelters in tree hollows, with a particular selection for large hollows in large, old trees (Henry 1984; Kehl & Borsboom 1984; Lindenmayer et al., 1991; Smith et al., 2007; Goldingay 2012). In Grafton/Casino, Urbenville and the Urunga/Coffs Harbour Forestry Management Areas (FMAs) in northern New South Wales (NSW), the abundance of greater gliders on survey sites was significantly greater on sites with a higher abundance of tree hollows (Andrews et al., 1994; Smith et al., 1994, 1995). In the Grafton/Casino FMA, the greater glider was absent from surveyed sites with fewer than six tree hollows per hectare (Smith et al., 1994). In southern Queensland, greater gliders require at least 2−4 live den trees for every 2 ha of suitable forest habitat (Eyre 2002). Home ranges are typically relatively small (1−4 ha: Henry 1984; Kehl & Borsboom 1984; Comport et al., 1996; Gibbons & Lindenmayer 2002; Pope et al., 2005), but are larger in lower productivity forests and more open woodlands (up to 16 ha: Eyre 2004; Smith et al., 2007). They are larger for males than for females (Kavanagh & Wheeler 2004; Pope et al., 2005), with male home ranges being largely non-overlapping (Henry 1984; Kavanagh & Wheeler 2004; Pope et al., 2005). The greater glider is considered to be particularly sensitive to forest clearance (Tyndale-Biscoe & Smith 1969a) and to intensive logging (Kavanagh & Bamkin 1995; Kavanagh & Webb 1998; Kavanagh & Wheeler 2004; Kavanagh et al., 2005), although responses vary according to landscape context and the extent of tree removal and retention (Kavanagh 2000; Taylor et al., 2007). The greater glider is also sensitive to wildfire (Lunney 1987; Andrews et al., 1994; Lindenmayer et al., 2011), and is slow to recover following major disturbance (Kavanagh 2004). In the Urbenville FMA of northern NSW, the abundance of greater gliders on survey sites was significantly greater in forests that were infrequently burnt (Andrews et al., 1994). Notwithstanding relatively small home ranges, but in part because of low dispersal ability, greater gilders may be sensitive to fragmentation (Eyre 2006; McCarthy & Lindenmayer 1999ab; Lindenmayer et al., 2000; Taylor & Goldingay 2009), have relatively low persistence in small forest fragments, and disperse poorly across vegetation that is not native forest. Modelling suggests that they require native forest patches of at least 160 km2 to maintain viable Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 319 Page 2 of 16 populations (Eyre 2002). Kavanagh & Webb (1989) found no significant movement of greater gliders into unlogged reserves from surrounding logged areas. Females give birth to a single young from March to June (Tyndale-Biscoe & Smith 1969b; McKay 2008). Sexual maturity is reached in the second year (Tyndale-Biscoe & Smith 1969b). Longevity has been estimated at 15 years (Harris & Maloney 2010), so generation length is likely to be 7−8 years. The relatively low reproductive rate (Henry 1984) may render small isolated populations in small remnants prone to extinction (van der Ree 2004; Pope et al., 2005). Threats Threats to the greater glider are outlined in the table below (Woinarski et al., 2014). Cumulative effects of clearing and logging activities, current burning regimes and the impacts of climate change are a major threat to large hollow-bearing trees on which the species relies. Threat factor Consequence Extent over Evidence base rating which threat may operate Habitat loss Catastrophic Moderate-large The species is absent from cleared (through clearing, areas, and has little dispersal ability clearfell logging to move between fragments through and the cleared areas; low reproductive destruction of output and susceptibility to senescent trees disturbance ensures low viability in due to prescribed small remnants. Roadside clearing in burning) and state forests have destroyed many fragmentation hollow-bearing trees previously left on the perimeter of logging coupes (Gippsland Environment Group pers. comm., 2015). Too intense or Severe Large Population loss or declines frequent fires documented in and after high intensity fires (Lindenmayer et al., 2013). Timber Severe Moderate Prime habitat coincides largely with production areas suitable for logging; the species is highly dependent on forest connectivity and large mature trees. Glider populations could be maintained post-logging if 40% of the original tree basal area is left (Kavanagh 2000); logging in East Gippsland is significantly above this threshold (Smith 2010; Gaborov pers. comm., 2015). There is a progressive decline in numbers of hollow-bearing trees in production forests as logging rotations become shorter and as dead stags collapse (Ross 1999; Ball et al., 1999; Lindenmayer et al., 2011). The species occurs in many conservation reserves across its range. In NSW, 83% of the public forested lands (that lie within the Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 320 Page 3 of 16 Integrated Forestry Operations Approval regions) that coincide with the distribution of the greater glider are protected in formal or informal reserves (Slade & Law, in press). However, the fraction of protected areas is likely to be lowekr in Queensland and Victoria. Climate change Severe Large (future Biophysical modelling indicates a threat) severe range contraction for the northern subspecies (Kearney et al., 2010). Occupancy modelling indicates that the degree of site occupancy is associated with vegetation lushness and terrain wetness (Lumsden et al., 2013). Water stress affects growth in forest eucalypts (Matusick at al., 2013) and the availability of browse, and higher temperatures may cause heat stress and mortality (Vic SAC 2015). Barbed wire Minor Minor There are occasional losses of fencing individuals. (entanglement) Hyper-predation Severe Local The greater glider forms a significant by owls part of the powerful owl’s diet (Bilney et al., 2006). Powerful owl numbers have increased greatly in the Blue Mountains since 1990 and have been recorded at many sites with greater gliders (Smith pers. comm., 2015). Reduction in the stand density of hollow-bearing trees could increase predation threat whilst the species is moving between hollows. Since the widespread decline of terrestrial species, the greater glider has become a significant part of the sooty owl’s diet – increasing from 2% of its diet at pre-European settlement to 21% (Bilney et al., 2010). The greater glider has significantly declined or become locally extinct in some intact forest, possibly due to owl predation (Lindenmayer et al., 2011; Lumsden et al., 2013; Rickards pers. comm., 2015). At Boodoree National Park, the increase in large forest owls coincided with a reduction in foxes, which may have reduced competition for prey with the powerful owl and sooty owl (Lindenmayer et al., 2011). Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 321 Page 4 of 16 Competition from Minor- Local Numbers of cockatoos in the Blue sulphur-crested moderate Mountains have increased cockatoos significantly since 1990. They are likely to be competing with greater gliders for hollows and have been observed taking over nesting hollows of powerful owls (Smith pers. comm., 2015). Phytophthora root Minor Large The fungus is known to impact on the fungus health of eucalypts. How judged by the Committee in relation to the EPBC Act Criteria and Regulations Criterion 1. Population size reduction (reduction in total numbers) Population reduction (measured over the longer of 10 years or 3 generations) based on any of A1 to A4 Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Very severe reduction Severe reduction Substantial reduction A1 ≥ 90% ≥ 70% ≥ 50% A2, A3, A4 ≥ 80% ≥ 50% ≥ 30% A1 Population reduction observed, estimated, inferred or suspected in the past and the causes of the reduction (a) direct observation [except A3] are clearly reversible AND understood AND ceased. A2 Population reduction observed, estimated, inferred (b) an index of abundance appropriate to or suspected in the past where the causes of the the taxon reduction may not have ceased OR may not be based on understood OR may not be reversible. (c) a decline in area of occupancy, any of the extent of occurrence and/or quality of A3 Population reduction, projected or suspected to be following: habitat met in the future (up to a maximum of 100 years) [(a) cannot be used for A3] (d) actual or potential levels of A4 An observed, estimated, inferred, projected or exploitation suspected population reduction where the time period must include both the past and the future (up to a (e) the effects of introduced taxa, max. of 100 years in future), and where the causes of hybridization, pathogens, pollutants, reduction may not have ceased OR may not be competitors or parasites understood OR may not be reversible. Evidence: Eligible under Criterion 1 A2(b)(c), A3(b)(c), A4(b)(c) for listing as Vulnerable T here are no robust estimates of population size or population trends of the greater glider across its total distribution. However, declines in numbers, occupancy rates and extent of habitat have been recorded at many sites, from which a total rate of decline can be inferred. Victoria The most comprehensive monitoring program for greater gliders is in the central highlands of Victoria, where 160 permanent 1 ha sites across a 1800 km2 study area (in both conservation reserves and production forests, and spanning a broad range of forest ages and environmental settings; Lindenmayer 2009) have been monitored annually since 1997. Over the period 1997−2010, the greater glider declined by an average of 8.8 percent per year (a rate that if extrapolated over the 22 year period relevant to this assessment is 87 percent) (Lindenmayer et al., 2011). Higher rates of decline were recorded in forests subject to logging than in conservation reserves, and declines were also associated with major bushfires and lower-than- average rainfall. More recent surveys undertaken by Lumsden et al. (2013, p. 3) stated: ‘A Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 322 Page 5 of 16 striking result from these surveys was the scarcity of the Greater Glider which was, until recently, common across the Central Highlands’. M ajor bushfires in 2003, 2006−2007 and 2009 burnt much of the greater glider’s range in the state, and further fragmented its distribution as evidenced by surveys and species records (Lumsden et al., 2013; Vic SAC 2015). Reoccupation of burnt sites in subsequent years is likely to be a slow process due to the small home ranges (1−2 ha) of the species and its limited dispersal capabilities (L. Lumsden pers. comm., cited in Vic SAC 2015). It also depends on there not being further significant fires in the interim (Vic SAC 2015). Since the 2009 fires, which burnt the Kinglake East Bushland Reserve and nearby areas, spotlighting records of greater gliders in these areas have significantly declined (Cobern pers. comm., 2015). The occupancy model in Lumsden et al. (2013) predicts that areas most likely to be occupied following the 2009 fires are now patchily distributed. Preliminary results of an occupancy survey in 2015 suggest low occupancy rates in three of four survey areas. Approximately 50 percent of the individual transects in this study incorporated sites of known previous occupancy by greater gliders based on systematic surveys in the 1990s (Gaborov pers. comm., 2015). Other evidence supports a decline in East Gippsland; in the Mount Alfred State Forest, roadside spotlighting on the same route over a 30 year period used to record frequent sightings (10−15 animals on each occasion), but only a single greater glider has been sighted in the 18 months leading up to November 2015 (Gippsland Environment Group pers. comm., 2015). However, there is evidence of some declines in occupancy in unburnt sites in the same parts of Victoria (Lumsden et al., 2013), and also at Booderee National Park in NSW (Lindenmayer et al., 2011), suggesting that factors other than fire are involved in the species’ decline (Vic SAC 2015). A decline in suitable browse due to water stress is likely to have been a contributing factor, as central Victoria was significantly hotter and drier than normal during 2001−2009 (Vic SAC 2015). Occupancy modelling by Lumsden et al. (2013) found that the degree of site occupancy is associated with site ruggedness, vegetation lushness and terrain wetness. New South Wales and the ACT At Jervis Bay in Booderee National Park, 110 permanent 1 ha sites (stratified across vegetation types and fire histories) were established in 2002. Lindenmayer et al. (2011) reported a highly significant decline, from greater glider presence in 22 of the sites in 2002 to absence from all sites since 2007. In the Blue Mountains, declines have been recorded at Murphy’s Glen; spotlighting undertaken between 1986 and 2014 shows that the species used to be consistently and regularly detected, but by 2010 were difficult to detect and no longer present (Smith pers. comm., 2015). However, spotlighting undertaken in 2015 recorded greater gliders on each of the three occasions (1, 2 and 5 individuals), so numbers may be recovering at Murphy’s Glen (Smith pers. comm., 2015). Anecdotal reports, including from local ecologists, indicated similar declines elsewhere in the lower Blue Mountains, and the NSW Bionet Atlas confirms a marked drop in records in the region (Blue Mountains National Park: 357 records 1990−2004, 8 records 2004−2014. Blue Mountains LGA: 142 records 1990−2004, 1 record 2004−2014) (Smith pers. comm., 2015). An isolated population at Royal National Park has been lost due to fire and regional-scale decline in the Illawarra area (Maloney 2007). Following the 1994 wildfire, which burnt more than 90 percent of the park, the first confirmed sighting of a greater glider in Royal National Park was in 2012 (Andrew et al., 2014) despite a number of surveys and searches conducted since the fire. Kavanagh and Webb (1998) monitored greater gliders in 500 ha of wood production forest near Bombala in southern NSW, and found that the population declined in all logging compartments and had not recovered eight years after harvesting. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 323 Page 6 of 16 Queensland In central Queensland, the abundance of greater gliders declined by 89 percent across a series of 31 woodland sites sampled initially in 1973−76 and re-sampled in 2001−02 (Woinarski et al., 2006). The species is continuing to decline, based on anecdotal observations over a 20-year period (Qld DEHP 2015) and evidence of a decline in large, hollow-bearing trees due to past logging activities and repeated prescribed burning (Eyre 2005; Eyre et al., 2010). Once habitat trees are lost from the system, the length of time required for the development/recruitment of replacement habitat trees appropriate for the species is largely prohibitive (Smith et al., 2015). Conclusions There is little other published information on population trends over the period relevant to this assessment (around 22 years), and the above sites are not necessarily representative of trends across the species’ range. However, they provide sufficient evidence to infer that the overall rate of population decline exceeds 30 percent over a 22 year (three generation) period (Woinarski et al., 2014), and indeed may far exceed 30 percent. The population of the greater glider is declining due to habitat loss, fragmentation, extensive fire and some forestry practices, and this decline is likely to be exacerbated by climate change (Kearney et al., 2010). The species is particularly susceptible to threats because of its slow life history characteristics, specialist requirements for large tree hollows (and hence mature forests), and relatively specialised dietary requirements (Woinarski et al., 2014). The Committee considers that the species has undergone a substantial reduction in numbers over three generation lengths (22 years for this assessment), equivalent to at least 30 percent and the reduction has not ceased, the cause has not ceased and is not understood. Therefore, the species has been demonstrated to have met the relevant elements of Criterion 1 to make it eligible for listing as Vulnerable. Criterion 2. Geographic distribution as indicators for either extent of occurrence AND/OR area of occupancy Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Very restricted Restricted Limited B1. Extent of occurrence (EOO) < 100 km2 < 5,000 km2 < 20,000 km2 B2. Area of occupancy (AOO) < 10 km2 < 500 km2 < 2,000 km2 AND at least 2 of the following 3 conditions: (a) Severely fragmented OR Number of = 1 ≤ 5 ≤ 10 locations (b) Continuing decline observed, estimated, inferred or projected in any of: (i) extent of occurrence; (ii) area of occupancy; (iii) area, extent and/or quality of habitat; (iv) number of locations or subpopulations; (v) number of mature individuals (c) Extreme fluctuations in any of: (i) extent of occurrence; (ii) area of occupancy; (iii) number of locations or subpopulations; (iv) number of mature individuals Evidence: Not eligible The extent of occurrence is estimated at 1 586 870 km2, and the area of occupancy estimated at 16 164 km2. These figures are based on the mapping of point records from 1995 to 2015, obtained from state governments, museums and CSIRO. The EOO was calculated using a minimum convex hull, and the AOO calculated using a 2x2 km grid cell method, based on the IUCN Red List Guidelines 2014 (DotE 2015). Woinarski et al. (2014) noted that the AOO, which Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 324 Page 7 of 16 they estimated to be 15 960 km2, is likely to be a significant under-estimate due to limited sampling across the occupied range. Following assessment of the data the Committee has determined that the geographic distribution is not very restricted, restricted or limited. Therefore, the species has not met this required element of this criterion. Criterion 3. Population size and decline Critically Endangered Vulnerable Endangered Low Limited Very low Estimated number of mature individuals < 250 < 2,500 < 10,000 AND either (C1) or (C2) is true C1 An observed, estimated or projected Very high rate High rate Substantial rate continuing decline of at least (up to a 25% in 3 years or 1 20% in 5 years or 2 10% in 10 years or 3 max. of 100 years in future) generation generation generations (whichever is longer) (whichever is (whichever is longer) longer) C2 An observed, estimated, projected or inferred continuing decline AND its geographic distribution is precarious for its survival based on at least 1 of the following 3 conditions: (i) Number of mature individuals in ≤ 50 ≤ 250 ≤ 1,000 each subpopulation (a) (ii) % of mature individuals in one 90 – 100% 95 – 100% 100% subpopulation = (b) Extreme fluctuations in the number of mature individuals Evidence: Not eligible There is no reliable estimate of population size. Lunney et al. (2008) considered that the greater glider had a ‘presumed large population’ and was ‘locally common’. Winter et al. (2004) noted that it was ‘common’ in the north Queensland portion of its range. In NSW, Kavanagh (2004) considered it ‘widespread and common … particularly in north-eastern New South Wales’. Density estimates in Victoria range from 0.6 to 2.8 individuals per hectare (Henry 1984; van der Ree et al., 2004), and across its broader distribution density ranges from 0.01 to 5 individuals per hectare (Kavanagh 1984; Kehl & Borsboom 1984; Maloney 2007). In southern Queensland, trees with hollows are extremely limited in some extensive forest types that have been historically used for timber production, and this in turn limits greater glider distribution and abundance (Eyre 2006). Woinarski et al. (2014) estimate the number of mature individuals to be greater than 100 000. The Committee considers that the total number of mature individuals is not limited, low or very low. Therefore, the species has not met this required element of this criterion. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 325 Page 8 of 16 Criterion 4. Number of mature individuals Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Extremely low Very Low Low Number of mature individuals < 50 < 250 < 1,000 Evidence: Not eligible Woinarski et al. (2014) estimate the population size to be greater than 100 000 mature individuals (see Criterion 3). The total number of mature individuals is not considered extremely low, very low or low. Therefore, the species has not met this required element of this criterion. Criterion 5. Quantitative Analysis Critically Endangered Endangered Vulnerable Immediate future Near future Medium-term future ≥ 50% in 10 years or 3 ≥ 20% in 20 years or Indicating the probability of extinction in generations, 5 generations, ≥ 10% in 100 years the wild to be: whichever is longer whichever is longer (100 years max.) (100 years max.) Evidence: Not eligible S everal local-level population viability analyses have been undertaken (Taylor & Goldingay 2009), but none for the full species (Woinarski et al., 2014). Therefore, the species has not met this required element of this criterion. Conservation Actions Recovery Plan The Committee recommends that there should be a recovery plan for Petauroides volans (greater glider). Stopping decline and supporting recovery is complex, due to the requirement for a high level of planning to abate the theats, a high level of support by key stakeholders, a high level of prioritisation and a highly adaptive management process. Existing mechanisms are not adequate to address these needs. Primary Conservation Actions 1. Reduce the frequency and intensity of prescribed burns. 2. Identify appropriate levels of patch retention, habitat tree retention, and logging rotation in hardwood production. 3. Protect and retain hollow-bearing trees, suitable habitat and habitat connectivity. Conservation and Management Actions The greater glider is currently not listed as threatened under any state legislation, except for two populations in NSW (the Mount Gibraltar Reserve Area, and Eurobodalla Local Government Area) that are listed as Endangered. The species occurs in many conservation reserves across its extensive range. In production forests some logging prescriptions have been imposed to reduce impacts upon this species, however these are not adequate to ensure its recovery. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 326 Page 9 of 16 In Victoria, logging of areas where greater gliders occur in densities of greater than two per hectare, or greater than 15 per hour of spotlighting, require a 100 ha special protection zone (Vic DNRE1995). However, this threshold is quite high given that density estimates in Victoria range from 0.6 to 2.8 individuals per hectare (Henry 1984; van der Ree et al., 2004), and mature tree densities are declining meaning a lower probability that gliders will occur at higher densities (Gaborov pers. comm., 2015). This management requirement may therefore not adequately protect existing habitat and greater glider populations. In New South Wales, conservation projects are being developed for the two greater glider populations listed as Endangered under state legislation. In addition, logging of areas where greater gliders occur in densities of greater than one per hectare require eight hollow-bearing trees to be retained per hectare (Terms of Licence). However, such tree-retention measures are typically not species-specific, and do not consider factors which influence the occupancy of hollows and their suitability for different fauna species (Gibbons & Lindenmayer 2002), including intra-specific or inter-specific competition for hollows and changes in predation by owls related to changes in forest structure. In Queensland, there are no species-specific management actions currently in place for the greater glider. However, under current Native Forest Codes of Practice for harvesting under state-owned and freehold native forest, the retention of extra habitat trees within the geographic range of the greater glider is required (Qld DEHP 2015). Recommended management actions are outlined in the table below (Woinarski et al., 2014). Theme Specific actions Priority Active mitigation of Reduce the frequency and intensity of prescribed High threats burns. Constrain impacts of hardwood production through High appropriate levels of patch and hollow-bearing tree retention, appropriate rotation cycles, and retention of wildlife corridors between patches. Constrain clearing in forests with significant High subpopulations, to retain hollow-bearing trees and suitable habitat. Avoid fragmentation and habitat loss due to High development and upgrades of transport corridors. Restore connectivity to fragmented populations. Medium Captive breeding N/a Quarantining isolated N/a populations Translocation Reintroduce individuals to re-establish populations Low at suitable sites. Community Develop conservation covenants on lands with Low engagement high value for this species. Survey and monitoring priorities Theme Specific actions Priority Survey to better define Assess population size (or relative abundance) Low distribution and and viability of populations across the species’ abundance range, using standardised and repeatable methodology. Determine the distribution and abundance in Medium relation to forest vegetation class, age class, and amount of old growth forest in the landscape to understand the pattern of occurrence. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 327 Page 10 of 16 Establish or enhance From existing monitoring projects, design an High monitoring program integrated monitoring program across major subpopulations, linked to the assessment of management effectiveness. Monitor the abundance and size structure of High critical habitat tree species, and their responses to management including before and after prescribed burns, and before and after logging. Continue to model impacts of wildfire and logging Medium on population viability. Monitor the incidence of wildfire within the species’ Medium range. Information and research priorities Theme Specific actions Priority Assess relative impacts Assess the impacts of a range of possible fire Medium-high of threats regimes on the species. Assess the impacts of ongoing habitat Medium fragmentation (e.g. through peri-urban expansion, coal seam gas mining activities, road networks). Investigate the potential causes of recent declines, Medium including cumulative impacts and impacts of owl predation. Assess relative Assess the impacts of fire management High effectiveness of threat (prescribed burning programs) on habitat, hollow mitigation options availability, preferred tree species, and glider population size. Assess responses to habitat re-connections (e.g. Medium rope ladder crossings over transport corridors). Continue to assess and monitor the species’ Medium responses to logging regulations and conditions. Investigate the practicality of supplementing Low-medium hollow availability with artificial hollows. Resolve taxonomic Assess the extent of genetic variation and Low uncertainties exchange between subpopulations. Review taxonomic status. Low Assess habitat Investigate the numbers, densities and types of High requirements hollow-bearing trees that must be retained to ensure viable populations. Assess diet, life history N/a Recommendations (i) The Committee recommends that the list referred to in section 178 of the EPBC Act be amended by including in the list in the Vulnerable category: Petauroides volans (ii) The Committee recommends that there should be a recovery plan for this species. Threatened Species Scientific Committee 254// 2016 Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 328 Page 11 of 16 References cited in the advice Andrew, D., Koffel, D., Harvey, G., Griffiths, K. & Fleming, M. (2014). Rediscovery of the Greater Glider Petauroides volans (Marsupialia: Petauroidea) in the Royal National Park, NSW. Australian Zoologist 37, 23-28. Andrews, S. P., Gration, G., Quin, D., & Smith, A. P. (1994). Description and assessment of forestry impacts on fauna of the Urbenville Forestry Management Area. 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Gliding mammals: taxonomy of living and extinct species. Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press, Washington. Kavanagh, R. P. (1984). Seasonal changes in habitat use by gliders and possums in southeastern New South Wales. In Possums and Gliders (eds A. P. Smith & I. D. Hume), pp. 527-543. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Chipping Norton. Kavanagh, R. P. (1988). The impact of predation by the powerful owl, Ninox strenua, on a population of the greater glider, Petauroides volans. Austral Ecology 13, 445-450. Kavanagh, R. P. (2000). Effects of variable-intensity logging and the influence of habitat variables on the distribution of the Greater Glider Petauroides volans in montane forest, southeastern New South Wales. Pacific Conservation Biology 6, 18-30. Kavanagh, R. P. (2004). Distribution and conservation status of possums and gliders in New South Wales. In The Biology of Australian Possums and Gliders (eds R. L. Goldingay & S. M. Jackson), pp. 130-148. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Chipping Norton. Kavanagh, R. P., & Bamkin, K. L. (1995). Distribution of nocturnal forest birds and mammals in relation to the logging mosaic in south-eastern New South Wales, Australia. Biological Conservation 71, 41-53. Kavanagh, R. P., & Lambert, M. (1990). Food selection by the greater glider: is foliar nitrogen a determinant of habitat quality? Australian Wildlife Research 17, 285-299. Kavanagh, R.P. & Webb, G.A. (1989). Silvicultural Options for the Management of Wildlife Habitats in Southeast New South Wales. Unpublished report. Kavanagh, R.P., & Webb, G.A. (1998). Effects of variable-intensity logging on mammals, reptiles and amphibians at Waratah Creek, south-eastern New South Wales. Pacific Conservation Biology 4, 326-347. Kavanagh, R. P., & Wheeler, R. J. (2004). Home range of the greater glider Petauroides volans in tall montane forest of southeastern New South Wales, and changes following logging. In The Biology of Australian Possums and Gliders (eds R. L. Goldingay & S. M. 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Characteristics of hollow-bearing trees occupied by arboreal marsupials in the montane ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria, south-east Australia. Forest Ecology and Management 40, 289-308. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 330 Page 13 of 16 Lindenmayer, D. B., Lacy, R. C. & Pope, M. L. (2000). Testing a simulation model for population viability analysis. Ecological Applications 10, 580–597. Lindenmayer, D. B., Wood, J. T., McBurney, L., MacGregor, C., Youngentob, K. & Banks, S. C. (2011). How to make a common species rare: a case against conservation complacency. Biological Conservation 144, 1663-1672. Lindenmayer, D.B., Blanchard, W., McBurney, L., Blair, D., Driscoll, D., Smith, A.L. & Gill, A.M. (2013) Fire severity and landscape context effects on arboreal marsupials. Biological Conservation 167, 137-148. Lumsden, L.F., Nelson, J.L., Todd, C.R., Scroggie, M.P., McNabb, E.G., Raadik, T.A., Smith, S.J., Acevedo, S., Cheers, G., Jemison, M.L. & Nicol, M.D. (2013). A New Strategic Approach to Biodiversity Management – Research Component. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research. Unpublished Client Report for the Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria. Lunney, D. (1987). Effects of logging, fire and drought on possums and gliders in the coastal forests near Bega, N.S.W. Australian Wildlife Research 13, 67-92. Lunney, D., Menkhorst, P., Winter, J., Ellis, M., Strahan, R., Oakwood, M., Burnett, S., Denny, M., & Martin, R. (2008). Petauroides volans. In ‘IUCN red list of threatened species.’ Version 2012.2. Viewed 11 December 2012. Available on the internet at: http://www.iucnredlist.org. Maloney, K. S. (2007). The status of the Greater Glider Petauroides volans in the Illawarra region. 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Smith, A. P., Moore, D. M., & Andrews, S. P. (1994). Fauna of the Grafton and Casino Forestry Study Areas description and assessment of forestry impacts. Report for State Forests of New South Wales. Austeco Environmental Consultants, Armidale. Smith, A. P., Andrews, S. P, Gration, G., Quin, D, & Sullivan, B. (1994). Description and assessment of forestry impacts on fauna of the Urunga - Coffs Harbour Forestry Management Area. Report for State Forests of New South Wales. Austeco Environmental Consultants, Armidale. Smith, G. C., Mathieson, M., & Hogan, L. (2007). Home range and habitat use of a low-density population of Greater Glider, Petauroides volans (Pseudocheiridae: Marsupialia), in a hollow-limiting environment. Wildlife Research 34, 472-483. Smith, A, (2010). Effects of proposed logging on populations of the Greater Glider (Petauroides volans) and Yellow-bellied Glider (Petaurus australis) in Four Coupes at Brown Mountain, East Gippsland, Victoria. 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Population structure and regulatory mechanisms. Journal of Animal Ecology 38, 637-650. Vanderduys, E. P., Kutt, A. S., & Kemp, J. E. (2012). Upland savannas: the vertebrate fauna of largely unknown but significant habitat in north-eastern Queensland. Australian Zoologist 36, 59-74. van der Ree, R., Ward, S. J., & Handasyde, K. A. (2004). Distribution and conservation status of possums and gliders in Victoria. In The Biology of Australian Possums and Gliders (eds R. L. Goldingay & S. M. Jackson), pp. 91-110. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney. Vic Department of Natural Resources and Environment (Vic DNRE) (1995). East Gippsland – Forest Management Plan. Melbourne. Winter, J. W., Dillewaard, H. A., Williams, S. E., & Bolitho, E. E. (2004). Possums and gliders of north Queensland: distribution and conservation status. In The Biology of Australian Possums and Gliders (eds R. L. Goldingay & S. M. Jackson.), pp. 26-50. Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney. Woinarski, J. C. Z., Burbidge, A. A., & Harrison, P. L. (2014). The Action Plan for Australian Mammals 2012. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 332 Page 15 of 16 Woinarski, J. C. Z., McCosker, J. C., Gordon, G., Lawrie, B., James, C., Augusteyn, J., Slater, L., & Danvers, T. (2006). Monitoring change in the vertebrate fauna of central Queensland, Australia, over a period of broad-scale vegetation clearance, 1975-2002. Wildlife Research 33, 263-274. Other sources cited in the advice Cobern, C. (2015). Personal communication by email, 9 November 2015. Landcare Coordinator, Upper Goulburn Landcare Network, Victoria. Gaborov, R. (2015). Personal communication by email, 25 November 2015. Ecologist, Victoria. Gippsland Environment Group (2015). Personal communication by email, 24 November 2015. Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (Qld DEHP) (2015). Submission on the eligibility of Petauroides volans (greater glider) to be categorised as Vulnerable on the EPBC Act threatened species list. Received 25 November 2015. Brisbane. Rickards, P. (2015). Personal communication by email, 24 November 2015. Owner of forested property in East Gippsland, Victoria. Smith, J. (2015). Personal communication by email, 22 November 2015. P&J Smith Ecological Consultants, NSW. T erms of licence under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 – Lower North East region. Available on the internet at: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/resources/forestagreements/terms-lower-north-east.pdf Victorian Scientific Advisory Committee (Vic SAC) (2015). Submission on the EPBC Act assessment of the greater glider. Received 25 November 2015. Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Melbourne. Petauroides volans (greater glider) Conservation Advice 333 Page 16 of 16