Ecological Assessment Ecological Assessment
Report Report
Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
WE16036 WE16036
Prepared for SunWater
09 June 2016
Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
Document Information Prepared for SunWater Project Name Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project File Reference \\aubnecfs05\env$\WE Jobs 2016\WE16036 - Boondooma Dam Ecology\wp\Reports\Boondooma Dam_Ecological Assessment Report_V1_FINAL.docx Job Reference WE16036 Date 09 June 2016
Contact Information Cardno (Qld) Pty Ltd ABN 57 051 074 992
Level 11 Green Square North Tower 515 St Paul’s Terrace Locked Bag 4006 Fortitude Valley Qld 4006
Telephone: 07 3369 9822 Facsimile: 07 3369 9722 International: +61 7 3369 9822 www.cardno.com.au
Document Control
Author Reviewed Date Description of Revision Signature Signature Version Author Initials Reviewer Initials
A 27 May 2016 Draft SC / CB DW
1 09 June 2016 Final SC DF
Approved Approved Reason for Issue / Stage of Deliverable Signature Release Date Version Approver Initials
A Draft for client comment DW 27/ May 2016
1 For issue and use SC 09 June 2016
© Cardno 2016. Copyright in the whole and every part of this document belongs to Cardno and may not be used, sold, transferred, copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner or form or in or on any media to any person other than by agreement with Cardno. This document is produced by Cardno solely for the benefit and use by the client in accordance with the terms of the engagement. Cardno does not and shall not assume any responsibility or liability whatsoever to any third party arising out of any use or reliance by any third party on the content of this document.
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Table of Contents
1 Introduction 1 2 Methodology 2 2.1 Terrestrial Ecology 2 2.2 Aquatic Ecology 3 2.3 Limitations 5 3 Results 6 3.1 Terrestrial Ecology 6 3.2 Aquatic Ecology 9 4 Conclusions 16 5 References 17
Tables
Table 2-1 Weather during field survey 2 Table 2-2 GPS coordinates (WGS84 datum) of aquatic sites visited during the field inspection 4 Table 2-3 Fish habitat assessment criteria developed by Fairfull and Witheridge (2003). 4 Table 3-1 Regional Ecosystems mapped within the survey area 6 Table 3-2 Regional Ecosystems mapped within the survey area 7 Table 3-3 Weed species recorded within the survey area 8 Table 3-4 Habitat description scores for all sites using the modified RCE inventory. 11 Table 3-5 Macrophyte species present at sites. 11 Table 3-6 Observations or capture of non-threatened fish species. O = observed; C = captured by rod and reel or in baited traps. 13 Table 3-7 Likelihood of occurrence of threatened fish species 14 Table 3-8 Channel Stability Index for locations upstream and downstream of crossings A and B and for the Pond 15
Figures
Figure 1 Survey Site Figure 2 Ecological Features
Appendices
Appendix A Quarternary Results Appendix B Flora Species List Appendix C Fauna Species List Appendix D Watercourse Crossing Data
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1 Introduction
Boondooma Dam was built in 1983 to supply water to the Tarong Power Station. It is located on the Boyne River and is within the South Burnett Regional Council Local Government Area and the Brigalow Belt Bioregion. It is situated approximately 220 km north-west of Brisbane and 20 km north of Proston. Damage to the spillway during the flood events in 2011 and 2013 has resulted in the need for repair works to stabilise and reinforce damaged areas. The repair works will result in disturbance to approximately 6 ha of land adjacent to existing infrastructure and will involve: > the repair and upgrade of two watercourse crossings; > excavation and clearing adjacent to the eastern edge of the spillway; and > the establishment of a laydown area.
Cardno was commissioned to undertake an ecological assessment of the terrestrial and aquatic environment to identify features of high ecological significance that may be impacted as a result of the repair works. The ecological assessment specifically targeted five sites being: > Crossing A; > Crossing B; > The Spillway; > Excavation and Clearing; and > Laydown Area.
Combined, the above noted sites are henceforth referred to as the survey area. The location of the sites and the survey area is shown in Figure 1.
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2 Methodology
All terrestrial and aquatic field survey components were undertaken by three Cardno ecologists over a two day period between 4 May 2016 and 5 May 2016. Weather conditions during the survey period are shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1 Weather during field survey1 Date Min. Max. Total Rain Humidity 9am Humidity 3pm Temperature Temperature (mm) (%) (%) (°c) (°c) 04 May 2016 13.9 27.0 0 80 29 05 May 2016 7.0 26.4 0 83 36
2.1 Terrestrial Ecology The field methodology for each of the terrestrial components is described within the following sections.
2.1.1 Regional Ecosystems The State’s regional ecosystem mapping was confirmed and refined at an approximate scale of 1:10,000 through the collection of quaternary sites. Quaternary plot data was collected generally in accordance with the methodology described by Neldner et al. 2012. The dominant species in each strata, strata height and approximate cover were collected at each quaternary site. The location of the quaternary sites is shown in Figure 1.
2.1.2 Flora During the quaternary assessments all flora species encountered were recorded and compiled into a cumulative site species list. Targeted searches for threatened plant species, including Acacia grandifolia, and weed species declared under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route. Management) Act 2002 (LP Act) were also undertaken. These searches were conducted as random meanders when moving through the survey area and between quaternary sites. Where dense populations of threatened species were identified, abundance was calculated using the ‘Point- centred Quarter’ technique. A randomly selected centre point was used to measure the distance to the nearest threatened species in each of the four 90° quarters or quadrants. The distance was measured in a straight line in meters. Average distance to each threatened plant was calculated for each sample point. Density was then calculated and expressed as average density per hectare using the following formula: Density (Plants/ha) = 10,000m2 / (average distance to plant in meters)2
2.1.3 Fauna The fauna survey aimed to detect the presence and/or likelihood of native species and pests within the survey area. The fauna surveys utilised the following methods: > 10 camera traps were baited with universal bait (i.e. peanut butter and oats) and deployed for a single night; > bird survey was completed through a visual encounter and aural census of avian species using a random meander survey method, the survey was completed over one dawn chorus with incidental observations made during other periods; > active diurnal searches for herpetofauna were conducted in areas of within suitable microhabitats with search techniques including turning woody debris, rocks and artificial debris, raking leaf litter beneath trees, and looking beneath peeling bark for reptiles or their sloughs; > spotlighting was completed over a single evening for a total of 4 person hours;
1 N.B. Climate observations shown in Table 2-1 are from the nearest weather station located at Kingaroy, approximately 80km east of Boondooma Dam (BoM Station Number 040922).
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> opportunistic searches were completed whilst moving through the survey area. These searches aimed to locate signs of wildlife including scats, scratches, nests and burrows; and > Habitats assessments were completed whilst moving through the survey area including the identification and recording of significant habitat features such as notable hollow bearing trees. 2.2 Aquatic Ecology A qualitative assessment of aquatic and riparian habitat features, biota and geomorphology was made at three of the sites in the survey area. Specifically: > Crossing A; > Crossing B; and > the Spillway) The location of the sites has been illustrated on Figure 1. The assessment methodology is described within the following sections.
2.2.1 Description of Habitats Visual assessments of in-stream aquatic habitat, substratum and biota in reaches upstream and downstream of the sites were undertaken by an experienced aquatic ecologist. GPS coordinates of the sites are provided in Table 2-2 and their relative position is shown in Figure 1. The condition of the aquatic habitat at each site was assessed using a modified version of the Riparian, Channel and Environmental (RCE) inventory method (Chessman et al. 1997). This assessment involves evaluation and scoring of the characteristics of the adjacent land, the condition of riverbanks, channel and bed of the watercourse, and degree of disturbance evident at each site. The maximum score (52) indicates a stream with little or no obvious physical disruption and the lowest score (13) indicates a heavily channelled stream without any riparian vegetation. This methodology was developed by Peterson (1992) and modified for Australian conditions by Chessman et al. (1997) by combining some of the descriptors, modifying some of the associated categories and simplifying the classifications from 1 to 4. The RCE method provides an objective method of assessing aquatic habitat and facilitates comparisons between locations and potential changes through time. It provides a simplified description of the aquatic habitat and does not fully represent its complex and changing nature. The inventory also has equal weightings for each of the indices and therefore, certain elements and differences in the habitat of each site may be masked. The scores are used as a generalised assessment only. In-stream and emergent aquatic macrophytes and riparian vegetation up to 50 m upstream and downstream of each crossing and along the north-west edges of the pond were identified. Plants were identified in the field using Waterplants of Australia by Sainty and Jacobs (2003). Photographs were also taken at each site.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) do not provide guideline and/or tools for the purposes of assessing the quality of fish habitat in freshwater streams. Given this an alternative and recognised method applied in NSW was adopted for the purposes of assessing fish habitat; specifically fish habitat was assessed according to criteria developed by Fairfull and Witheridge (2003) (see Table 2-3). These criteria were developed by NSW DPI (Fisheries) to help determine the recommended minimum crossing types for different waterways and they can also be utilised to help classify waterways based on fish habitat quality. This methodology provides an objective and repeatable fish habitat and assessment framework. An updated version of these criteria is available in NSW DPI (Fisheries) (2013), however, the criteria presented here are more applicable in this instance. Similar criteria are not currently available for Queensland.
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Table 2-2 GPS coordinates (WGS84 datum) of aquatic sites visited during the field inspection Site Name Crossing Type Northing Easting
Crossing A Dirt road over 6-pipe culvert 343205 7113326
Crossing B Dirt road dividing downstream 342959 7113426 waterway from pond (no culvert) Spillway N/A 342912 7113345
Table 2-3 Fish habitat assessment criteria developed by Fairfull and Witheridge (2003). Classification Characteristics of Waterway Type Class 1 Major permanently or intermittently flowing waterway (e.g. River or major creek), habitat of a Major fish habitat threatened fish species.
Named permanent or intermittent stream, creek or waterway with clearly defined bed and Class 2 banks with semi - permanent to permanent waters in pools or in connected wetland areas. Moderate fish habitat Marine or freshwater aquatic vegetation is present. Known fish habitat and/or fish observed inhabiting the area.
Named or unnamed waterway with intermittent flow and potential refuge, breeding or Class 3 feeding areas for some aquatic fauna (e.g. fish, yabbies). Semi - permanent pools form Minimal fish habitat within the waterway or adjacent wetlands after a rain event. Otherwise, any minor waterway that interconnects with wetlands or recognised aquatic habitats.
Named or unnamed waterway with intermittent flow following rain events only, little or no Class 4 defined drainage channel, little or no flow or free standing water or pools after rain events Unlikely fish habitat (e.g. Dry gullies or shallow floodplain depressions with no permanent aquatic flora present).
2.2.2 Fish and Large Invertebrates Prior to field sampling, a desktop search of online records of threatened species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and/or Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act) was undertaken using the EPBC Act ‘Protected Matters Search’ tool. The search extended 50 km around the Boondooma Dam wall and included records of occurrence and availability of suitable habitat within this area. Fish and large invertebrates were sampled using rod and reel (lures, and hooks baited with earthworms or prawns) and with small baited traps. Captured fish were measured to the nearest centimetre before being released. Visual observations of fish were also recorded.
2.2.3 Geomorphology The ‘River Styles’ methodology was used to assess the geomorphic condition of each site and identify the key associated factors that may be influencing aquatic ecology. In particular, this task included identification of evidence of erosion within, and adjacent to, each site and an assessment of its source (local and or wider catchment area). Information on the extent and cause of any identified erosion would inform the development and implementation of the rehabilitation plan. A Rapid Geomorphic Assessment (RGA) was conducted to determine a channel stability index (CSI) at locations upstream and downstream of Crossing A and Crossing B and at the Pond (Heeren et al. 2012). The assessment involved scoring nine different criteria of channel form and instability. These included channel incision, constriction and bank erosion, accretion, protection and riparian vegetation cover. Each criterion was ranked from zero to four and all values were summed to provide an index of relative channel stability. Index values <10 indicate stable areas while values ranging between 10 and 20 indicate moderate instability and values > 20 indicate considerable instability (Heeren et al. 2012). The criteria were:
> primary bed material (bedrock, boulder/cobble, gravel, sand or silt/clay); > bed/Bank protection as an indication of the risk of bed scour or incision; > degree of channel incision;
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> degree of channel constriction or decrease in channel width from upstream to downstream; > streambank erosion (fluvial or mass wasting) for each bank; > streambank instability (percentage of each bank failing by mass wasting); > established riparian woody-vegetative cover; > occurrence of bank accretion; and > stage of channel evolution. 2.3 Limitations Due to constrained project timeframes surveys were undertaken over two days in autumn (May 2016). This is outside of the optimal timing for the detectability of some cryptic species (such as summer and spring flowering orchids, grasses, and forbs). Notwithstanding this, the survey methods and effort used within the survey are considered adequate for the detection of the threatened species identified by desktop assessment as known or likely to occur within the survey area.
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3 Results
3.1 Terrestrial Ecology
3.1.1 Regional Ecosystems A total of 10 quaternary sites were completed within the survey area. The results of the quaternary level vegetation assessment, including photographs of each site, are provided as Appendix A. Three regional ecosystems were ground-truthed within the survey area. These communities are described in Table 3-1 below and shown in Figure 2. No Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) were identified within the survey area.
Table 3-1 Regional Ecosystems mapped within the survey area RE Description VM Act Biodiversity Code Status Status Eucalyptus tereticornis or E. camaldulensis woodland fringing drainage Least 11.3.25 Of concern lines Concern Eucalyptus crebra +/- Corymbia erythrophloia shrubby woodland. E. Least No concern 11.12.1 melanophloia is often present and may be locally dominant. Also includes Concern at present localised areas dominated by E. persistens. Least No concern 11.12.6b Callitris glaucophylla +/- Eucalyptus spp. woodland. Concern at present
3.1.2 Flora One threatened flora species, Acacia grandifolia, was identified at a number of locations within the survey area. Acacia grandifolia is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and Least Concern under the NC Act. This species is known to respond well to disturbance, with regeneration recorded in disturbed areas and by roadsides (DoE, 2016). The highest abundance of individuals were recorded along site access tracks and disturbed areas of the survey area. Examples of this species within the survey area are presented as Plate 1– 2.
Plate 1. Close-up of A. grandiflora leaves from sample sent to Plate 2. Dense stand of A.grandiflora within laydown area Queensland Herbarium
Due to the high abundance of individuals recorded within the survey area, densities were estimated using the point-quarter method. The results of this assessment are presented as Table 3-2 below. Survey locations are shown in Figure 1. No other threatened species are were detected within the survey area. It is considered unlikely that any other threatened flora species occur within the survey area.
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A total of 39 native species listed as Least Concern flora under the NC Act were recorded during the field survey. A list of all identified flora species is provided as Appendix B.
Table 3-2 Regional Ecosystems mapped within the survey area Distance Average Density at this Site Patch description (m) Distance site (plants/ha)^ 1st quarter 14.6 2nd quarter 0.3 SPILLWAY: At lower hill slope adjacent A 7.7 clearing and excavation area. Shrubs 170 3rd quarter 2.4 regrowing in disturbed areas. 4th quarter 13.4 1st quarter 7.5 2nd quarter 17.0 CROSSING A: Scattered shrubs at Crossing B 12.7 A. Present on both banks and upstream and 62 3rd quarter 10.2 downstream. 4th quarter 16.0 1st quarter 1.4 2nd quarter 4.1 LAYDOWN: Dense regrowth within laydown C 3.4 865 3rd quarter 5.1 area. Largest population within survey area. 4th quarter 3.0 1st quarter 21.6 2nd quarter 15.7 SPILLWAY: On top of hill at spillway. One D 12.1 larger shrub ~7m and lots of smaller shrubs 69 3rd quarter 5.6 growing in disturbed areas. 4th quarter 5.4 1st quarter 9.0 2nd quarter 1.3 SPILLWAY: Within approximate centre of E 7.8 excavation and clearing area in spillway. Lots 163 3rd quarter 5.9 of small shrubs regrowing in disturbed areas. 4th quarter 15.1
CROSSING B: Six individuals were identified at Crossing B. Due to the relatively small F NA NA NA NA population the location of each individual was captured via GPS. NOTE: ^rounded to nearest whole plant
3.1.3 Fauna A total of 40 fauna species were identified during the two day field survey. Whilst no threatened fauna species were detected, the survey area supports potentially suitable habitat for one threatened fauna species, Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), which is listed under the provision of the EPBC Act and NC Act. No individuals or signs (e.g. scats) of this species were observed during field work. The nearest mapped records for this species are located from Proston and also within Woroon State Forest both of which are approximately 18 km from the survey. Anecdotal observations have noted this species within the vicinity of survey area (SunWater 2016, pers. comm., 18 April). Potential habitat for this species corresponds with the wooded areas mapped shown in Figure 2. . The survey area is unlikely to represent important habitat for other species of threatened terrestrial fauna. An example of two species recorded during the survey are shown as Plate 3 -4. A full list of all fauna species identified during the field survey is provided as Appendix C. A number of notable habitat features (including hollow-bearing trees, hollow logs and stick nests) were recorded in low abundance within the survey area. The locations of notable habitat features are shown on Figure 1.
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Plate 3. Broad-palmed rocket frog (Litoria latopalmata) Plate 4. Whiptail wallaby (Macropus parryi) eating identified during spotlighting universal bait, captured on camera trap.
3.1.4 Weeds and pests A total of 16 non-native species were recorded within the survey area, including three which are Declared Pest Species under the LP Act and Weeds of National Significance (WoNS). Non-native species detected within the survey area are provided in Table 3-3. The abundance of each non-native species was recorded generally in accordance with the density values described within Spatial Pests Attributes Standard (DAFF, 2012). Two non-native fauna species which are not declared under the LP Act were identified within the survey area; being, European hare (Lepus capensis) and Cane toad (Rhinella marina). It is considered likely that Feral pig (Sus scrofa) Feral dog (Canis familiaris) and Feral cat (Felis catus) all of which are Class 2 under the LP Act potentially occur within the survey area. A full list of all fauna species identified during the ecological assessment is provided as Appendix C.
Table 3-3 Weed species recorded within the survey area Scientific Name Common Name WoNS LP Act Status Abundance^ Ageratum houstonianum Blue billygoat weed - - Scattered Chloris gayana Rhodes grass - - Low Cirsium vulgare Scotch thistle - - Scattered Conyza bonariensis Fleabane - - Moderate Glandularia aristigera Mayne’s pest - - Moderate Gomphocarpus physocarpus Balloon cotton bush - - Low Lantana camara Lantana WoNS Class 3 Low Macroptilium atropurpureum Siratro - - Low Opuntia stricta Prickly Pear WoNS Class 2 Scattered Opuntia tomentosa Velvety tree pear WoNS Class 2 Scattered Portulaca pilosa Pigweed - - Scattered Sida cordifolia Flannel weed - - Scattered Sida rhombifolia Paddy's lucerne - - Scattered Tagetes minuta Stinking roger - - Scattered Xanthium occidentale Noogoora burr - - Low NOTE: ^Abundance for shrubs and woody species = No. Stems / 10m2: Scattered 1 to 2, Low 3 to 4, Moderate 5 to 9, High >7; Abundance for ground cover species = 5 groundcover (scattered <10%, Low 10-20%, Moderate 20-30%, High >30%
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3.2 Aquatic Ecology
3.2.1 Waterway Barrier Works Crossing A is mapped as a ‘Purple – 4. Major Risk of Impact’ waterway and Crossing B is mapped as an ‘Amber – 2. Moderate Risk of Impact’ waterway and by the DAF ‘Queensland waterways for waterway barrier works’. The Pond is not mapped by DAF as a waterway. The Waterway Barrier Works Self-assessable codes are relevant for minor waterway barriers (i.e. culverts, bed-level crossings and low impact dams and weirs and temporary barriers) with all other types of waterway barriers requiring development approval. Given the mapping and that the proposed works may potentially trigger the need for development approval, Section 3.2.2 (following) provides an assessment of prevailing fish habitat values.
3.2.2 Description of Habitats The study area is not located within or adjacent to a Declared Fish Habitat Area (FHA) but does however support a ‘Major’ and ‘Moderate’ risk of impact waterway for the purposes of the Fisheries Act 1994. A summary of the observed habitat for each aquatic site is given in the following sections. All raw data for sites and photos are provided in Appendix D. 3.2.2.1 Crossing A Crossing A occurs in the main channel of the Boyne River approximately 400 m downstream of the ‘environmental flows’ outlet from Boondooma Dam. During the investigation flow was moderate and constant. The Boyne River flows through six 1 m diameter pipes (each between 8 m and 12 m in length) under Crossing A. 3.2.2.1.1 Upstream The majority of aquatic habitat in the Boyne River immediately upstream of Crossing A consisted of large pools (up to approximately 25 m wide) and slow flowing runs (Appendix D). A slow flowing run was present adjacent to the crossing. The pools were approximately 2 m deep and the runs, up to 0.6 m deep. The wetted-width was 12 m to 14 m, approximately 13 m along the run and wider at the pools. The banks were approximately 0.9 m to 1.4 m high and bank-full width was up to 1.3 m. The substratum was predominantly gravel with some larger rocks present. The water was clear during the survey with no signs of water pollution (e.g. foaming or proliferation of algae). The substratum had a substantial (95%) cover of submerged macrophytes, consisting mostly of Vallisneria nana with occasional Pomatogeton sulcatus. Filamentous algae was present on approximately 25% of macrophytes. The free-floating macrophyte, Azolla sp., was abundant around the edges of the pools and runs. The RCE score was 37 which is the highest of all sites, indicating relatively undisturbed habitat, (Table 3-4). There was evidence of nearby trampling of riparian vegetation by cattle and the condition of riparian habitat was generally greater (to 100% ground cover) on the left bank about 8 m upstream of the crossing and on the right banks about 20 m upstream of the crossing. There was generally <5% bare ground in the riparian zone. Some native perennials were present in the riparian zone at the site (Table 3-5). Cumbungi (Typha orientalis) was the most common emergent macrophyte observed, occurring in large beds. The emergent Giant Sedge (Cyperus exaltatus), River Clubrush (Schoenoplectus validus) and the emergent Schoenoplectus mucronatus were also present in smaller clumps. This site was classified as Class 1 Major fish habitat using the Fairfull and Witheridge (2003) classification. 3.2.2.1.2 Downstream Downstream of the crossing, the channel became narrower, and the banks steeper and taller compared with the upstream section. The majority of aquatic habitat here consisted of moderate flowing runs (6m to 8 m wide and 1 m deep max (Appendix D)). The banks were approximately 2.5 m to 3 m high and bank-full width was up to 7 m. The substratum was predominantly gravel with some larger rocks present. Water clarity at this site was good. The substratum had a substantial (95%) cover of submerged macrophytes, consisting mostly of Vallisneria nana with occasional Pomatogeton sulcatus. The RCE score of 35 was slightly lower compared with that upstream (Table 3-4). There were numerous cattle tracks through riparian zone and 20% of the ground was
WE1603609 June 2016 Cardno 09 June 2016 Prepared for SunWater Version 1 Page 9 Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project un-vegetated. Most of the riparian vegetation (90%) was exotic weeds and the riparian condition was moderate. There were some sparse small clumps of the emergent Schoenoplectus mucronatus (Table 3-5). This site was classified as Class 1 Major fish habitat. The existing culvert did not appear to obstruct fish passage through the crossing. However, it may do during low flow conditions. 3.2.2.2 Crossing B Crossing B separates a body of water that would generally be isolated from the Boyne River apart from periods of heavy rain or when the Boondooma Dam is spilling over. The body of water upstream of Crossing B is connected to the base of the spillway. During the two-day field survey there was no flow was observed. There is no culvert under Crossing B that would otherwise connect the upstream and downstream waterbodies. 3.2.2.2.1 Upstream The majority of aquatic habitat immediately upstream consisted of large pools (up to approximately 20 m wide and 1.0 m deep max. (Appendix D)). There was no flow and the water was very turbid (less than 1m visibility). The average wetted-width was approximately 10 m. The near vertical left bank was up to 10 m high in sections with 50% un-vegetated ground and no native vegetation. The 2 m to 3 m high right bank had a similar vegetation community and coverage and there were numerous cattle tracks to the water. The substratum was predominantly gravel with some larger rocks and bedrock. The condition of riparian habitat upstream of Crossing B was poor with an RCE score of 20 (Table 3-4). Evidence of previous high flows was observed in the banks of this site. This site was classified as Class 1 Major fish habitat, based on the presence of threatened fish (see below). 3.2.2.2.2 Downstream The majority of aquatic habitat here consisted of large pools (up to approximately 30 m wide and up to 2 m deep. (Appendix D)). There was no flow and the water clarity was good (i.e. 2 m to 4 m). The substratum was predominantly gravel and had a moderate (50%) cover of the introduced submerged macrophyte Myriophyllum aquaticum (Parrots feather). The condition of riparian habitat downstream of Crossing B was also poor with an RCE score of 19 (Table 3-4). Evidence of previous high flows (vegetation displaced by flood water) was observed along the banks. The left bank was up to 4 m high and the right bank up to 1 m high. About 50% of the riparian zone was un-vegetated. Native riparian plants occurred on the right bank in isolated patches only. Native Cumbungi (Typha orientalis) was present in large beds. Also present in smaller clumps was the emergent River Clubrush (Schoenoplectus validis) (Table 3-5). This site was classified as Class 2 Moderate fish habitat. 3.2.2.3 The Spillway The Spillway is rectangular with approximate dimensions of 50 m x 70 m with a maximum depth of approximately 3 m. The Pond would be isolated from other waters, including the Boyne River and Boondooma Lake, except when the Boondooma Dam is over topping. During the two-day field survey there was no flow and water clarity was very poor (i.e. < 1 m). The substratum was predominantly gravel with some larger rocks and bedrock. No in-stream macrophytes were observed. The riparian zone was severely degraded and there was evidence of recent high flows. The RCE score was 20 (Table 3-4). The left bank was un-vegetated, vertical and up to 20 m high in sections. The right bank initially sloped gently but terminated in a vertical cliff and was 50% un-vegetated. Native riparian plants, including the Rice Sedge (Cyperus difformis) and Cumbungi (Typha orientalis) occurred on the right bank only in small, isolated patches (Table 3-5). This Spillway was classified as Class 1 Major fish habitat based on the presence of threatened fish.
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Table 3-4 Habitat description scores for all sites using the modified RCE inventory.
Site
Designation Crossing A Crossing B Spillway
Upstream Downstream Upstream Downstream
Land use pattern beyond the 1 3 3 4 4 4 immediate riparian zone
Width of riparian strip of woody 2 2 2 1 1 1 vegetation
Completeness of riparian strip of 3 1 1 1 1 1 woody vegetation
Vegetation of riparian zone within 4 4 3 1 1 3 10m of channel
5 Stream bank structure 3 2 1 1 1
6 Bank undercutting 4 4 1 1 1
7 Channel form 3 4 2 2 1
8 Riffle/pool sequence 2 2 1 2 1
9 Retention devices in stream 2 1 1 1 1
10 Channel sediment accumulations 4 4 1 1 1
11 Stream bottom 4 4 1 1 1
12 Stream detritus 3 3 1 1 1
13 Aquatic vegetation 2 2 4 2 4
Total 37 35 20 19 21
Table 3-5 Macrophyte species present at sites. Crossing A Crossing B Spillway
Scientific Name Common Name Upstream Downstream Upstream Downstream
Azolla sp. Azolla √
Cyperus exaltatus Giant Sedge √
Cyperus difformis Rice Sedge √
Schoenoplectus validus River Clubrush √ √ Schoenoplectus Bulrush √ √ mucronatus
Potamogeton sulcatas Floating Pondweed √
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Crossing A Crossing B Spillway
Scientific Name Common Name Upstream Downstream Upstream Downstream
Myriophyllum Parrot's Father √ aquaticum
Vallisneria nana Eal Grass √
Typha orientalis Cumbungi √ √ √ √
3.2.3 Fish and Large Invertebrates 3.2.3.1 Non-listed Species The species of individual fish and large invertebrates observed or captured and their lengths are presented in Table 3-6. Three species of fish; Spangled Perch (Leiopotherapon unicoloris), Mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) and Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua) were identified. River prawns (genus: Macrobrachium) were also caught in the baited traps. Numerous Spangled Perch and Mosquitofish were observed at all sites though not always captured. At the Crossing A upstream site, a Spangled Perch measuring 12 cm was caught with hook and line and three River Prawns were caught in the baited traps. At the Crossing A downstream site, a Spangled Perch measuring 10 cm was caught with hook and line. At the Spillway, two Spangled Perch (21 cm and 15 cm) (Plate 1) and a large Golden Perch (45 cm) were caught with hook and line (Plate 2). Other large fish were hooked at some of the sites but could not be landed and identified. A freshwater turtle was observed at the Crossing B upstream site but could not be identified further. Spangled Perch (Leiopotherapon unicoloris) Spangled Perch are found in most coastal and inland systems in Queensland and the species is one of Australia’s most widespread native freshwater fish. It lives in a wide range of aquatic habitats including flowing streams, small billabongs, lakes, dams, drains and bores. Spangled Perch is an exceptionally hardy species, tolerating water temperatures from 10˚ C to 44˚ C and wide-ranging salinity levels from freshwater to seawater.
Plate 5. Spangled Perch captured by hook and line in the Pond.
Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua) Golden Perch, or Yellowbelly, are a medium-sized fish, commonly 30 cm to 40 cm and 1 kg to 2 kg in rivers. Golden perch are predators, eating mainly shrimps, small yabbies, benthic aquatic insect larvae, molluscs, frogs, small fish and aquatic invertebrates. Feeding behaviour varies, some individuals remain in shaded areas or amongst cover to take prey as it passes, whilst others move slowly over weed beds etc. to feed. The natural distribution of Golden Perch is west of the Great Divide, predominantly in the lowland, warmer, turbid
WE1603609 June 2016 Cardno 09 June 2016 Prepared for SunWater Version 1 Page 12 Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project and slow flowing rivers. In rivers when water current is low, they tend to sit on or close to snags (fallen trees) or rocky outcrops. In rising waters or flooding events fish will form large schools and enter into very turbulent or fast flowing waters when trying to migrate upstream. Golden Perch have also been regularly stocked into Boondooma Dam and are likely to have been transported downstream of the Dam during floods.
Plate 6. Golden Perch captured by hook and line in the Pond. Mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) Mosquitofish (or, Eastern Gambusia) (Gambusia holbrooki) are a declared noxious fish under Queensland law (i.e. under Fisheries Regulation 2008). Mosquitofish were initially introduced into eastern Australia sometime during the 1920s because of their reputation for mosquito control. They are now common in Queensland waterways. Mosquitofish are known to compete with native species for food and resources and predate on eggs and larvae. They can behave aggressively towards other species by chasing and fin nipping, which can lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections and potentially death of other fish. The high reproductive rate and extended breeding season of Mosquitofish, along with broad feeding habits, can enable this species to overwhelm suitable habitats with juveniles and deplete food supplies. River prawns (Macrobrachium spp.) River prawns of the genus Macrobrachium are a conspicuous and important component of freshwater ecosystems. They are small predacious crustaceans which are common in most of the freshwater streams of eastern Australia. Although they grow up to a size which is suitable for human consumption (30 g), most of any given population are much smaller and, hence, they are rarely caught to be eaten. They are most commonly found amongst aquatic plants, or similar vegetation, in clear and highly oxygenated water. They can die quickly if the oxygen level in the water falls.
Table 3-6 Observations or capture of non-threatened fish species. O = observed; C = captured by rod and reel or in baited traps. Crossing A Crossing B Spillway Scientific Name Common Name Upstream Downstream Upstream Downstream Leiopotherapon Spangled Perch C, O C,O O O C,O unicoloris
Macquaria Golden Perch, C ambigua Yellowbelly O Gambusia Mosquitofish, O O O O holbrooki Eastern Gambusia
Macrobrachium sp. River prawns C
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3.2.3.2 Listed Threatened Species Whilst no threatened fish species were observed during the field survey, the waterway at Crossing A supports potentially suitable habitat for two threatened fish listed under the EPBC Act. Table 3-7 below provides a list of those threatened species which are known or likely to occur within the survey area based on the EPBC Act Protected Matters Search (50 km buffer around the Boondooma Dam wall), nearby records and availability of suitable habitat within the survey areas. The Australian Lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. It is endemic to Australia and restricted to south-eastern Queensland. Adult Lungfish can weigh up to 48 kg and grow to around 2 m. Juvenile Lungfish are generally found in dense cover such as beds of macrophytes in water 500 mm deep or less. Immature Lungfish between 300 mm and 700 mm long have been found most often associated with overhanging streamside vegetation, in areas of dense woody debris, undercut banks and dense macrophytes. The Australian Lungfish is not listed as threatened under the NC Act. However, the taking of Australian Lungfish has been prohibited since it was declared a protected species under the Queensland Fish and Oyster Act 1914. The species is currently protected from fishing, and collection requires a permit under the Fisheries Act 1994. Lungfish are known to occur in tributaries of the Burnett River, including 20 km up the Boyne River from its junction with the Burnett River, as far as Boondooma Dam, including the Spillway site directly below the dam wall (DoE 2016b). Lungfish apparently inhabited the Boyne River above the Boondooma Dam before the dam was constructed. They no longer occur there, although they are abundant downstream of the Dam to the junction of the Burnett River. Lungfish pairs spawn amongst aquatic macrophytes making habitat at both the crossings potentially important. Potential threats to this species as a result of the repair works include: > exotic or translocated native fishes, such as the exotic Tilapia (various species); and > widespread clearing of riverbank vegetation which has reduced habitat for Lungfish. The Murray Cod (Maccullochella peelii) is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. It is the largest freshwater fish in Australia. The Murray Cod was historically distributed throughout the Murray-Darling Basin, which extends from southern Queensland, however it has also been successfully introduced to the Burnett River system of which the Boyne River is a tributary (DoE 2016c). The Murray Cod utilises a diverse range of habitats from clear rocky streams, to slow-flowing, turbid lowland rivers and billabongs, meaning all of the habitats surveyed are potentially suitable to this species. Murray Cod are frequently found in the main channels of rivers and larger tributaries. The species is, therefore, considered a main-channel specialist. Preferred microhabitat consists of complex structural features in streams such as large rocks, snags (pieces of large submerged woody debris), overhanging stream banks and vegetation, tree stumps, logs, branches and other woody structures. Such structures reduce or influence stream flows and provide Murray Cod with shelter from fast-flowing water. Potential threats to this species as a result of the repair works include: > habitat removal, modification and degradation; > barriers to movement; > altered river flow regimes; and > reduced water quality.
Table 3-7 Likelihood of occurrence of threatened fish species Likelihood of occurrence Scientific Name Common Name EPBC Act NC Act Crossing A Crossing B Spillway Neoceratodus Australian Lungfish, Known Vulnerable Not listed Likely Known forsteri Queensland Lungfish (upstream)
Maccullochella Murray Cod Vulnerable Not listed Possible Possible Possible peelii
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3.2.4 Geomorphology Results of the rapid geomorphic assessment of channel stability are shown in Table 3-8. All sites showed signs of instability, erosion and bank failure with low to high degrees of incision and low levels of accretion and little bed protection. Crossing B and the Pond had the highest levels of instability and the scores indicated they were ‘Considerably unstable’. Crossing A showed much more stability, particularly the upstream site, although scores were still in the range of ‘Moderate instability’.
Table 3-8 Channel Stability Index for locations upstream and downstream of crossings A and B and for the Pond Site Designation Crossing A Crossing B Spillway Downstrea Upstream Upstream Downstream m 1 Primary bed material 2 2 3 2 0
2 Bed / bank protection 1 1 1 1 1
3 Degree of incision 1 2 1 1 0
4 Degree of constriction 0 2 0 2 4
Streambank erosion LEFT 5 1 1 2 2 2 BANK Streambank erosion RIGHT 5 1 1 2 2 2 BANK Streambank instability 6 0 0.5 2 2 2 LEFT BANK Streambank instability 6 0 0.5 1 2 2 RIGHT BANK Established riparian woody- 7 vegetative cover LEFT 0 2 2 2 2 BANK Established riparian woody- 7 vegetative cover RIGHT 0.5 1 2 2 2 BANK 8 Bank accretion LEFT BANK 2 2 2 2 2
Bank accretion RIGHT 8 2 2 2 2 2 BANK
9 Stage of channel evolution 1.5 1.5 4 4 4
Composition of adjacent 10 Gravel Gravel Gravel Fine gravel Gravel / rock side slope LEFT BANK Composition of adjacent 10 Gravel Gravel Rocks Fine gravel Gravel / rock side slope RIGHT BANK Percent of slope (length) 11 contributing sediment LEFT 100% 90% 100% 100% 40% BANK Percent of slope (length) 11 contributing sediment 100% 100% 0% 50% 20% RIGHT BANK Severity of side-slope 12 Low Low High High High erosion LEFT BANK Severity of side-slope 12 Low Low High High Moderate erosion RIGHT BANK Channel Stability Index 12 18.5 24 26 25
Instability Moderate Moderate Considerable Considerable Considerable
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4 Conclusions
The terrestrial field survey confirmed the following: > One threated plant, Acacia grandifolia, listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and Least Concern under the NC Act was identified at numerous locations within the survey area. This species occurs in high abundance within the survey area and broader Boondooma Dam Road locality. > The survey area supports three Least Concern REs under the VM Act. > No TECs were identified within the survey area. > No threatened fauna species were detected during the field survey. Two threatened terrestrial vertebrate species are considered likely to occur within the survey area based on the presence of suitable habitat and nearby records. > 38 Least Concern fauna species and two non-native fauna specifies were identified within the survey area during the field survey. > 39 Least Concern flora species were identified within the survey area. > Three declared weed species (Lantana camara, Opuntia stricta and Opuntia tomentosa) were identified within the survey area. A further 13 non-native species were recorded within the survey area. The aquatic field survey confirmed the following: > Crossing A is mapped as a ‘Purple – 4. Major Risk of Impact’ waterway and Crossing B is mapped as an ‘Amber – 2. Moderate Risk of Impact’ waterway and by the DAF ‘Queensland waterways for waterway barrier works’. > Instream and riparian habitat at Crossing A, particularly upstream of the crossing, was relatively good, with many native submerged and emergent macrophytes present. Aquatic habitat at Crossing B and the spillway was poorer. These waterbodies are not permanently connected to the Boyne River and receive no inflow from Boondooma Dam apart from when it is over-topping. Riparian zones at Crossing B and the Spillway were also degraded, possibly due, in part, to the flood events of 2011 and 2013. > All sites showed signs of channel instability, erosion and bank failure. The channel at Crossing A was more stable than the others, particularly the upstream site. Crossing B and the Spillway had the greatest instability and the rapid geomorphology assessment scores indicated these sites were ‘Considerably unstable’. > Native fish were present at all of the sites surveyed as was the declared invasive pest Mosquitofish. > No threatened fish species were observed during the field assessment. However, Australian Lungfish, listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act, is known to occur in the Spillway and the Boyne River as far upstream as Boondooma Dam. Thus, it is also likely to be present in water ways either side of the two crossings. Habitat in the Spillway and at the two crossings is also suitable for Murray Cod, listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Murray Cod are known to occur in the Burnett River, of which the Boyne River is a tributary, thus, this species could possibly occur here.
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5 References
Chessman, B. C., Growns, J. E. and Kotlash, A. R. (1997) Objective derivation of macroinvertebrate family sensitivity grade numbers for the SIGNAL biotic index: Application to the Hunter River system, New South Wales. Marine & Freshwater Research 48, pp. 159-172. Department of the Environment (DoE) (2016a). Acacia grandifolia in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of the Environment, Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat. Department of the Environment (DoE) (2016b). Neoceratodus forsteri in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of the Environment, Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat. Department of the Environment (DoE) (2016c). Maccullochella peelii in Species Profile and Threats Database, Department of the Environment, Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat. Fairfull, S. and Witheridge, G. (2003) Why do Fish Need to Cross the Road? Fish Passage Requirements for Waterway Crossings. NSW Fisheries, Cronulla, 16 pp. Heeren, D. M., Mittelstet, A. R., Fox, G. A., Storm, D. E., Al-Madhhachi, A. T., Midgley, T. L., Stringer, A.F., Stunkel, K.B & Tejral, R. D. (2012). Using rapid geomorphic assessments to assess streambank stability in Oklahoma Ozark streams. Transactions of the ASABE, 55(3), 957-968. Neldner, V.J., Wilson, B.A., Thompson, E.J. and Dillewaard, H.A. (2012). Methodology for Survey and Mapping of Regional Ecosystems and Vegetation Communities in Queensland. Version 3.2. Updated August 2012. Queensland Herbarium, Queensland Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, Brisbane. Peterson, R.C. (1992). The RCE: a Riparian, Channel, and Environmental Inventory for small streams in the agricultural landscape. Freshwater Biology, 27(2):295-306. Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) 2012, Spatial Pest Attributes Standard Queensland, Version 7, Biosecurity Queensland, Brisbane. Sainty, G. R. and Jacobs, S. W. L. (2003). Waterplants in Australia. Sainty & Associates, Sydney, 416 pp
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Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
FIGURES Figure 1 Survey Site Figure 2 Ecological Features
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Figure 1 - Site Locality and Survey Sites
Survey Areas Crossing A
Crossing B
Excavation and Clearing
Laydown Areas
Spillway
Quaternary Site Camera Trap Point Quarter Site
0 250
meters Scale 1:5,000
Map Produced by Cardno QNT WE Date: 06/06/16 Coordinate System: GDAz56 Project:WE16036 Map:Figure1_SurveySites_2.wor 01 Boondooma Spillway Repair Figure 2 - Ecological values Survey Areas Crossing A
Crossing B
Excavation and Clearing
Laydown Areas
Spillway
Acacia grandifolia/hectare
201 to 900
101 to 200 1 to 100
Individual Acacia grandifolia
Habitat Feature Hollow Nest
Mapped RE 11.12.1/11.12.6b
11.12.6/11.3.25/11.12.6
11.12.6/11.7.6/11.12.3
11.3.25/11.3.25
Dominant Regional Ecosystem Ground-truthed 11.12.1
11.12.6
11.12.6b
11.3.25
0 250
meters Scale 1:5,000
Map Produced by Cardno QNT WE Date: 06/06/16 Coordinate System: GDAz56 Project:WE16036 Map:Figure2_EcologyFeatures_2.wor 01 Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
APPENDIX A QUARTERNARY RESULTS
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STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Acacia grandifolia 2.5 70 Acacia leiocalyx T2 Acacia grandifolia 1 30 S1 - Ground -
Site 2 Mapped RE: Non-remnant GTRE: 11.12.1a
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus crebra 13 50
T2 Eucalyptus crebra 2.5 60 Acacia grandifolia Alphitonia excelsa S1 Jacksonia scoparia 1 10 Ground Cymbopogon refractus Themeda triandra
Site 3 Mapped RE: Regrowth 11.12.1 / 11.12.6b GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus crebra Corymbia citriodora 16 30 Eucalyptus melanophloia T2 Acacia spectabilis 6 10 Eucalyptus crebra S1 Acacia spectabilis 1 15 Acacia grandifolia Ground Heteropogon contortus Themeda triandra Sporobolus caroli
Site 4 Mapped RE: 11.12.1 / 11.12.6b GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus melanophloia 13 35 Eucalyptus crebra T2 Eucalyptus crebra 4 40 Callitris glaucophylla Petalostigma pubescens S1 Petalostigma pubescens 2.5 30 Acacia grandifolia Ground Heteropogon contortus Themeda triandra
Site 5 Mapped RE: Water GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % Eucalyptus crebra T1 12 15 Eucalyptus melanophloia Eucalyptus crebra T2 6 60 Eucalyptus melanophloia S1 Acacia grandifolia 1.5 10
Ground Heteropogon contortus
Site 6 Mapped RE: 11.12.1 / 11.12.6b GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus crebra 16 50
T2 Eucalyptus crebra 6 15 Alphitonia excelsa S1 Ground
Site 7 Mapped RE: 11.12.1 / 11.12.6b GTRE: 11.12.6b
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus crebra 13 10
T2 Callitris glaucophylla 6 30
S1 Eucalyptus crebra Acacia grandifolia 1.5 20 Lantana camara* Ground Heteropogon contortus
Site 8 Mapped RE: 11.12.1 / 11.12.6b GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus melanophloia 15 50 Eucalyptus crebra T2 Acacia grandifolia 5 40 S1 Jacksonia scoparia 2 15 Lantana camara* Ground Sporobolus caroli Heteropogon contortus
Site 9 Mapped RE: 11.3.25 GTRE: 11.12.1
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % Eucalyptus melanophloia T1 15 50 Eucalyptus crebra Eucalyptus melanophloia T2 10 20 Corymbia tessellaris Acacia grandifolia S1 2 40 Eucalyptus melanophloia Ground
Site 10 Mapped RE: 11.3.25 GTRE: 11.3.25
STRUCTURAL SUMMARY Layer Species Median height (m) Estimate cover % T1 Eucalyptus tereticornis 25 60
T2 Eucalyptus tereticornis Casuarina cunninghamiana 15 30 Corymbia tessellaris S1 Melaleuca bracteata Melaleuca viminalis 2 30 Acacia grandifolia Ground Sporobolus caroli Melinis repens* Chloris gayana* Lantana camara* Xanthium occidentale*
Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
APPENDIX B FLORA SPECIES LIST
WE1603609 June 2016 Cardno 09 June 2016 Prepared for SunWater Version A Page 1 Scientific Name Common Name EPBC Act NC Act Acacia grandifolia - VLC Acacia leiocalyx Early flowering black wattle LC LC Acacia spectabilis Mudgee Wattle LC LC Ageratum houstonianum* Blue billygoat weed - - Alphitonia excelsa Red Ash LC LC Alyxia ruscifolia Prickly alyxia LC LC Auranticarpa rhombifolia Diamond-leaf Pittosporum LC LC Callitris glaucophylla White cypress LC LC Capparis canescens Native Pomegranate LC LC Cassinia laevis Cough bush LC LC Casuarina cunninghamii River Sheoak LC LC Chloris gayana* Rhodes grass - - Chrysocephalum apiculatum Yellow buttons LC LC Cirsium vulgare* Scotch thistle - - Conyza bonariensis* Fleabane - - Corymbia citriodora Spotted gum LC LC Corymbia tessellaris Moreton Bay Ash LC LC Cymbopogon refractus Barbed wire grass LC LC Cyperus fulvus Sticky Sedge LC LC Dianella brevipedunculata Blue Flax Lily LC LC Dianella caerulea Blue Flax Lily LC LC Diospyros humilis Black ebony LC LC Dodonaea sp. Hop bush LC LC Enneapogon sp. Bottlewasher grass LC LC Eucalyptus crebra Red ironbark LC LC Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest red gum LC LC Ficus opposita Sandpaper fig LC LC Glandularia aristigera* Maynes pest - - Heteropogon contortus Black spear grass LC LC Jacksonia scoparia Dogwood LC LC Jasminum didymum subsp. lineare - LC LC Lantana camara* Lantana - - Lomandra confertifolia subsp. pallida - LC LC Macroptilium atropurpureum* Siratro - - Mallotus philippensis Red kamala tree LC LC Melaleuca bracteata Black tea tree LC LC Melaleuca viminalis Weeping bottlebrush LC LC Melinis repens* Red Natal grass - - Micromelum minutum Lime berry LC LC Opuntia stricta* Prickly Pear - - Opuntia tomentosa* Velvety tree pear - - Petalostigma pubescens Quinine Bush LC LC Portulaca pilosa* Pigweed - - Pterocaulon redolens - LC LC Pterocaulon serrulatum Pineapple daisy LC LC Salsola australis Roly-poly LC LC Sida cordifolia* Flannel weed - - Sida rhombifolia* Paddy's lucerne - - Sporobolus caroli Tall fairy grass LC LC Tagetes minuta* Stinking roger - - Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass LC LC Typha orientalis Bulrush LC LC Wahlenbergia gracilis Bluebells LC LC Xanthium occidentale* Noogoora burr - - Gomphocarpus physocarpus* Balloon cotton bush - - Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
APPENDIX C FAUNA SPECIES LIST
WE1603609 June 2016 Cardno 09 June 2016 Prepared for SunWater Version A Page 1 Class Scientific Name Common Name Amphibia Litoria latopalmata Broad-Palmed Rocket Frog Amphibia Rhinella marina* Cane Toad Aves Alcedo azurea Azure Kingfisher Aves Climacteris picumnus Brown Tree Creeper Aves Corvus orru Torresian Crow Aves Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird Aves Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie Aves Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra Aves Fulica atra Eurasian Coot Aves Gallinula tenebrosa Dusky Moorhen Aves Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie Lark Aves Haliastur sphenurus Whistling Kite Aves Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner Aves Megalurus timoriensis Tawny Grass Bird Aves Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant Aves Ninox connivens Barking Owl Aves Ninox novaeseelandiae Boobook Aves Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler Aves Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote Aves Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican Aves Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant Aves Platycercus adscitus Pale-Headed Rosella Aves Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Swamphen Aves Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail Aves Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail Aves Strepera graculina Pied Currawong Aves Todiramphus chloris Collared Kingfisher Aves Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus Scaly-Breasted Lorikeet Aves Trichoglossus moluccanus Rainbow Lorikeet Aves Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing Aves Zosterops lateralis Silver Eye Mammalia Bos taurus Cow Mammalia Lepus capensis* European Hare Mammalia Macropus giganteus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo Mammalia Macropus parryi Whiptail Wallaby Mammalia Wallabia bicolor Swamp Wallaby Reptilia Ctenotus taeniolatus Copper-Tailed Skink Reptilia Diporiphora australis Tommy Roundhead Ecological Assessment Report Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
Boondooma Dam Spillway Repair Project
APPENDIX D WATERCOURSE CROSSING DATA
WE1603609 June 2016 Cardno 09 June 2016 Prepared for SunWater Version A Page 1 Location: Crossing A (Upstream) Easting 343201 Northing 7113301 Stream order: 1 DAF Waterway Barrier Designation Purple 4. Major Stream flow classification: Continuous flow Likelihood of permanent aquatic habitat: high Reach length (m): 25 Water quality: algae - 25%, turbidity -clear, overall condition - very good Aquatic habitat condition: Good Riparian Condition: Left hand bank Very good - 80 Land use and impacts: pastoral, cattle tracks Right hand bank Very good -60 through riparian zone Bank and Bed characteristics Bank height (m) Left = 0.9 Right = 1.4 Bank width (m) Left = 0.6 Right = 1.3 Recent flood flow level (m) Approx 3 Channel bed width (m) 14.7 max 12 min Average wetted width (m) 13 Depth max/ave (m) Run 0.6 Pool Approx 1.0 Riffle Absent Velocity Slow - moderate Upstream View Instream habitat Channel habitat (% reach length) Run - 10 Pool - 20 Dominant substrate instream Gravel, small rocks Instream cover (%) 95 Edge cover (%) 95 Riparian characteristics Canopy cover (%) Left = 60, Right = 20 Riparian width (m) Left = 0.6, Right = 1.3 % native / exotic trees 100/0 % native / exotic ground cover 50/50 % bare ground 5 Downstream View
Left bank Right bank Substrata Location: Crossing A (Downstream) Easting 343232 Northing 7113343
Stream order: 2 DAF Waterway Barrier Designation Purple 4. Major Stream flow classification: Continuous flow Likelihood of permanent aquatic habitat: high Reach length (m): 25 Aquatic habitat condition: Good Water quality: algae - 5%, turbidity -clear, overall condition - good
Riparian Condition: Left hand bank Good - 60 Land use and impacts: pastoral, cattle Right hand bank 60 tracks through riparian zone, base of spillway.
Bank and Bed characteristics Bank height (m) Left = 2.5 Right = 3.0 Bank width (m) Left = 3.0 Right = 7.0 Recent flood flow level (m) 3 Channel bed width (m) 8.0 max 6.0 min Average wetted width (m) 5 Depth max/ave (m) Run 0.6 Pool Approx 1.0 Riffle Absent Velocity Moderate Upstream view Instream habitat Channel habitat (% reach length) Run - 1 Pool - 85 Dominant substrate instream Gravel, small rocks Instream cover (%) 95 Edge cover (%) 95 Riparian characteristics Canopy cover (%) Left = 10, Right = 40 Riparian width (m) Approx 2.0 % native / exotic trees 100/0 % native / exotic ground cover 10/90 % bare ground 20 Downstream view
Left bank Right bank Substrata Location: Crossing B (Upstream) Easting 342952 Northing 7113414
Stream order: 3 DAF Waterway Barrier Designation Amber 2. Moderate Stream flow classification: Still Likelihood of permanent aquatic habitat: Low- Moderate Reach length (m): 25 Aquatic habitat condition: Poor Water quality: algae - 0, turbidity-high, overall condition - low to moderate
Riparian Condition: Left hand bank Poor - 20 Land use and impacts: pastoral, cattle tracks Right hand bank Poor - 20 through riparian zone. Road crossing, no flow through.
Bank and Bed characteristics Bank height (m) Left = 3.0 - 10.0, Right = 2.0-3.0 Bank width (m) Left = 2.5, Right = 2.0 Recent flood flow level (m) 12 Channel bed width (m) 20.0 max 7.0 min Average wetted width (m) 10 Depth max/ave (m) Run Absent Pool 1.5 max, 0.8 min Riffle Absent Velocity Nil Upstream View Instream habitat Channel habitat (% reach length) Pool - 100 Dominant substrate instream Fine gravel on 50% rock base Instream cover (%) 0 Edge cover (%) 0 Riparian characteristics Canopy cover (%) Left = 0, Right = 0 Riparian width (m) 2.5 % native / exotic trees 0 % native / exotic ground cover 50/50 % bare ground 50/50 Downstream View
Left bank Right bank Substrata Location: Crossing B (Downstream) Easting 342967 Northing 7113440
Stream order: 4 DAF Waterway Barrier Designation Amber 2. Moderate Stream flow classification: Still Likelihood of permanent aquatic habitat: Low-Moderate Reach length (m): 50 Aquatic habitat condition: low - Medium Water quality: algae - 5%, turbidity -clear, overall condition - low to mod Riparian Condition: Left hand bank Poor - 0 to 20 % Land use and impacts: pastoral, cattle Right hand bank Poor - 0 to 10 % tracks through riparian zone, base of spillway.
Bank and Bed characteristics Bank height (m) Left = 4, Right = 0.5 Bank width (m) Left = 3.0 - 6.0, Right = 1.0 Recent flood flow level (m) Approx 5 Channel bed width (m) Approx 30 Average wetted width (m) Approx 20 Depth max/ave (m) Run Absent Pool 2.0 max 0.6 min Riffle Absent Velocity Nil Upstream View Instream habitat Channel habitat (% reach length) Pool - 100 Dominant substrate instream 50% Fine gravel on 50% rock base Instream cover (%) 50 Edge cover (%) 10 Riparian characteristics Canopy cover (%) Left = 0 Right = 0 Riparian width (m) Left = 1.0 - 6.0, Right = 1.0 % native / exotic trees NA % native / exotic ground cover 10/90 % bare ground 50 Downstream View
Left bank Right bank Substrata Location: The Pond Easting 342912 Northing 7113345
Stream order: 5 DAF Waterway Barrier Designation Not mapped. Stream flow classification: Pond, waterhole Likelihood of permanent aquatic habitat: Low- Moderate Reach length (m): 70 Aquatic habitat condition: Low Water quality: algae - 0, turbidity-moderate, overall condition - low to moderate
Riparian Condition: Left hand bank None Land use and impacts: pastoral, cattle tracks Right hand bank 5 through riparian zone, base of spillway.
Bank and Bed characteristics Bank height (m) Left = 20, Right = 20 Bank width (m) Left = 1, Right = ~20 Recent flood flow level (m) 20 Channel bed width (m) ~50 Average wetted width (m) ~50 Depth max/ave (m) Run Absent Pool ~3 Riffle Absent Velocity Nil Upstream View Instream habitat Channel habitat (% reach length) Pool - 100 Dominant substrate instream Bedrock Instream cover (%) 0 Edge cover (%) 0 Riparian characteristics Canopy cover (%) 0 Riparian width (m) Left = 0, Right = 2.0- 5.0 % native / exotic trees 0 % native / exotic ground cover Left = 0, Right = 5 % bare ground 50 Downstream View
Left bank Right bank Substrata