Native Vegetation Clearance

Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication Data Report

Clearance under the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017 July 2020 Prepared by Jeremy Tiller

Page 1 of 43

Document Control: Project: Native Vegetation Clearance Assessment Data Report: Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication Client: Port Wakefield to Alliance Document Number: PW2PA_002 Version: 1.0 Issue: Draft Author: Jeremy Tiller Media: Electronic Issued to: Rebecca Giles - Environment and Sustainability Manager Dylan Gordge – Environmental Officer

Disclaimer and limitations: In compiling this report, the author has relied upon certain information and data provided by the client and other external sources. Where such information and data has been used, it has been assumed the information is correct unless otherwise stated. No responsibility is accepted by Jeremy Tiller for incomplete or inaccurate information and data provided by others. Any assessment made in this document are based solely on the information and data provided by published sources, the client and the existence of conditions and information made at the time of the site assessment and investigation. No warranty and guarantee, either expressed or implied, is made with respect to the information and data reported or to the findings, observations and conclusions expressed in this report. This report has been prepared on the behalf of and for the exclusive use of the client, and is subject to and issued in connection with the provisions of the agreement between Jeremy Tiller and the client. Jeremy Tiller accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use or reliance upon this report by any third party.

Cover photograph: Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low Closed Forest and the existing Joy Baluch AM Bridge (photo supplied by Matt Launer).

Page 2 of 43

Table of contents

1. Application information ...... 4 2. Purpose of clearance ...... 6 3. Method ...... 10 4. Assessment Outcomes ...... 11 5. Clearance summary ...... 36 6. Significant Environmental Benefit ...... 36 7. Appendices...... 38

Page 3 of 43

1. Application information

Application Details Applicant: CPB Contractors CPB Contractors is the Head Contractor and member of the Port Wakefield to Port Augusta Alliance, which is contracted by the Commissioner of Highways for the construction of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication in Port Augusta. Key contact: Dylan Gordge Ph: 0419 421 867 Email: [email protected] Landowner: The Commissioner of Highways. Note: The Commissioner is in the process of finalising acquisition of the land for the project. Site Address: The project footprint impacts the road corridors of Princes Highway, Flinders Terrace, Langsford Street, Miller Ave, MacKay Street, Mill Street, Tassie Street and Burgoyne Street in the suburbs of Port Augusta and Port Augusta West. Multiple properties adjacent to these roads will also be impacted during the project. Local Government Port Augusta City Council Hundred: Davenport and Copley Area: Title ID: CT/5996/493 Parcel ID F186314 A612 CT/5996/497 F186315 A613 CR/5956/236 D67521 A2 CT/6043/839 D76828 A74 CT/6043/838 D76828 A73 CT/5786/34 D30648 A14 CR/5759/886 T330601 A114

Summary of proposed clearance Purpose of clearance Clearance is required to facilitate the development of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication Project. Native Vegetation Regulation Regulation 12(32) – Works on behalf of Commissioner of Highways Description of the vegetation • 0.935 ha of previously cleared sites with scattered native understorey species under application in poor condition. • 0.149 ha of Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland in good condition. • 0.085 ha of Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low Closed Forest in good condition. • 0.026 ha Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low woodland in good condition. • Potentially 0.0052 ha of seagrass meadows. Total proposed clearance - 1.195 ha are proposed to be cleared. area (ha) and number of trees Maximum of 0.0052 ha of seagrass meadows (seeking ‘in principle consent to clear’ with total impact depending on site assessment outcomes). Level of clearance Level 4

Page 4 of 43

Map of proposed clearance areas

Mitigation hierarchy Project initiatives and measure to avoid impacts to native vegetation include: • The design of the JBAMBD project has been chosen to predominantly run adjacent of the existing highway and bridge. This allows the project to utilise the pre-existing roads and limits the encroachment of new infrastructure into adjacent areas containing native vegetation. • Refinement of the south eastern foreshore shared use pedestrian path design from a large arching structure to a narrower angled path. This allowed the Project to reduce the footprint of the path and thus impacts to native vegetation in the area. • Road embankments steepened to reduce encroachment into neighboring land and adjacent native vegetation in the foreshore areas. • Construction methodology allows for site access and temporary works to be within the general construction footprint. Site compound and lay down areas have also been assigned to previously disturbed areas. In addition, the JBAMBD project will minimise impacts to native vegetation by implementing an environmental management protection system during construction, such as establishing vegetation protection zones, educating site staff, suppressing dust, designating site access routes and managing the spread and introduction of weed species.

Page 5 of 43

SEB Offset proposal Payment of $19,566.72 2. Purpose of clearance

2.1 Description Jeremy Tiller was engaged by the Port Wakefield to Port Augusta Alliance (PW2PA) to prepare a native vegetation clearance application data report for the development of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication Project (JBAMD) in Port Augusta, , and to assess the proposed clearance envelopes against the Clearance Requirements of the Native Vegetation Act 1991 and Native Vegetation Regulations 2017. The field survey data used to prepare this report was collected by Accredited Consultant Matt Launer, from Blackoak Environmental Consulting, during 18-19 January 2019, 30 April 2019 and 16-17 July 2019. As stated on the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure’s (DPTI) project website: ‘The Joy Baluch AM Bridge is an important link in the National Land Transport Network at Port Augusta, providing access across the for commuter, commercial and freight vehicles in the northern region of South Australia. It is also a key tourist connection to the , northern South Australia and beyond. The duplication of the bridge will improve road safety and efficiency for all users, improve freight productivity and importantly improve the resilience of this critical road link. It will also address the current bridge speed restrictions and safety for people walking or cycling across the bridge. The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $200 million ($160 million from the and $40 million from the South Australian Government) for the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication Project (DPTI 20201)’. 2.2 Background The project is located within the Arden IBRA Associations of South Australia. The landform in the Arden IBRA Association is described as plains with dunes, lakes and mangrove or samphire flats. The association is dominated by low chenopod shrublands and low open woodlands with chenopod shrub understorey. Approximately 93% of the Arden IBRA Association is mapped as remnant native vegetation. The project is located primarily in an urban setting, with the proposed bridge traversing the estuary environment of Upper North Spencer Gulf. Current land uses of the properties to be impacted includes roads and highways, railway corridor, disused railway yards, commercial and residential properties and reserves. Adjacent land uses to the project includes public beaches, commercial, residential and vacant residential properties, recreation parks, public open spaces and public institutions (accessed from NatureMaps, 2020). 2.3 Details of the proposal The project, spanning the Upper Spencer Gulf, involves the duplication of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge, existing bridge design upgrades and pedestrian connectivity works. The bridge duplication will require widening of the existing earthen embankments and causeways on both sides of the Gulf, as well as 48 piles to be driven into the seabed across the Gulf to support the bridge spans. Temporary works involve the construction of a load out wharf adjacent the old great western bridge, this load out wharf will be used to load machinery and construction materials onto barges to facilitate bridge construction. A shared use pedestrian path is to be constructed on the south eastern foreshore to maintain pedestrian access in the area. (See Appendix 1. for JBAMBD Preliminary Design Drawing and Site Plan)

1 DPTI 2020, SA Government, accessed 10 July 2020, https://dpti.sa.gov.au/infrastructure/road_projects/joybaluchAMbridge

Page 6 of 43

2.4 General location map

Page 7 of 43

2.5 Approvals required or obtained Native Vegetation Act 1991 Consent to clear native vegetation under the Native Vegetation Act 1991 is subject to this application and data report. Two previous clearance application are located adjacent to the JBAMBD project area (Map 2). According to Blackoak Ecological Assessment Report (20192), the applications (2002-2097, 2012_3060) were lodged by the to clear samphire that had regenerated on the intertidal area used as a public beach. The applications were endorsed subject to Significant Environmental Benefit offset (SEB) area of 0.3 ha (2002-2097) of samphire and mangrove vegetation on the opposite side of Upper Spencer Gulf. Part of the JBAMBD project area encroaches into a small section of SEB 2002-2097 (Map 2 and 6). Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 No Development Approval is required for the JBAMBD project. The project was approved by the Parliamentary Public Works Committee. Water Resources Act 1997 No current water licences required for the project. Heritage Places Act 1993 Project has obtained Section 27 permit. Historic Shipwrecks Act 1981 Project has approval under Section 15. Marine Parks Act 2007 Project has obtained Marine Park Act 2007 permit. Environment Protection Act 1993 The project has obtained the relevant Environmental Protection Authority licence. 2.6 Native Vegetation Regulation Regulation 12(32) – Works on behalf of Commissioner of Highways

2 Blackoak Environmental (2019), Ecological Assessment for the Joy Baluch AM Bridge duplication Project. (Appendix 2)

Page 8 of 43

Page 9 of 43

3. Method

Note: The field surveys were undertaken by Matt Launer of Blackoak Environmental (Native Vegetation Council (NVC) Accredited Consultant) as detailed below. 3.1 Desktop Assessment A desktop assessment was conducted to assess the potential for any threatened species (both Commonwealth and State listed) to occur within the project area. This was achieved by undertaking the following database searches: • Review of the Atlas of Living Australia and Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 Protected Matter search tools within 5km of the proposed clearance areas to determine the likelihood of any National and State listed fauna species that may utilise the vegetation under application. • Review of the Atlas of Living Australia and EPBC Act 1999 Protected Matter search tools within 5km of the proposed clearance areas to determine the likelihood of any National and State listed flora species and/or habitats of conservation significance that may be present on the subject land. In addition, the project will require the construction of several pillars for the new bridge development which will impact approximately 0.0052 ha of seabed. At present, it is unknown if this will have impacts to seagrasses in this area. In order to calculate the potential impacts to seagrasses and the subsequent SEB requirements, this report has made the assumption that marine flora species are present. To determine which seagrass species may be impacted, a review of the Atlas of Living Australia records was conducted within 10km of the proposed clearance area. The seagrass species previously recorded were included in the desktop assessment. For further details refer to the assessment outcome for Site E1 in Section 4 below. Once an onsite assessment in the form of an underwater photographic survey has been undertaken, this data report will be amended accordingly to adjust and finalise the Total Biodiversity Scores and SEB offset requirements for Site E1. Consequently, the applicant is requesting the NVC to consider providing ‘in principle consent to clear’ for Sites E1 as part of this clearance application. 3.2 Field Survey The field surveys were conducted from 18-19 January 2019, 30 April 2019 and 16-17 July 2019 by Matt Launer (NVC Accredited Consultant). The survey covered the areas of terrestrial vegetation within the project area. 3.3 Flora Assessment The vegetation survey was performed in accordance with the NVC Bushland Assessment Manual 2017. The NVC Bushland Assessment Manual 2017 is suitable for assessing vegetation that is located within the agricultural region of South Australia (Blackoak Environmental 2019). 3.4 Fauna assessment The majority of the project area was traversed on foot. All vertebrate fauna species, signs of species (scats, tracks etc.) and potential habitat for fauna was recorded. The value of habitat for the threatened fauna species identified in the desktop assessment was also determined when surveying the project area (Blackoak Environmental 2019).

Page 10 of 43

4. Assessment Outcomes 4.1 Vegetation Assessment General description of the vegetation, the site and matters of significance As discussed above, the project is located within the Arden IBRA Associations of South Australia. The landform in the Arden IBRA Association is described as plains with dunes, lakes and mangrove or samphire flats. The association is dominated by low chenopod shrublands and low open woodlands with chenopod shrub understorey. The soils in the region are described as brown calcareous earths, crusty loamy soils with red clayey subsoils, sandy soils, brown and red, shallow dense loams. The project is located primarily in an urban setting, with the proposed bridge traversing the estuary environment of Upper Spencer Gulf. This section of the Upper Spencer Gulf is designated as a Wetlands of National Importance (SA020)(Map 3)(NatureMaps 2020). The Upper Spencer Gulf Wetland is an inverse estuary containing shallow, warm saline waters. The area is characterised by intertidal mangrove forests, tidal sand and mud flats, with some areas of shingle and sandy beaches. The mud flats are dissected by a network of tidal channels, some of which include Chinaman Creek, First - Seventh Creek, Port Davis Creek and Fisherman Creek. Below sea level, extensive shallow seagrass meadows give way to a silty sea floor in deeper waters (Blackoak Environmental 2019). According to Blackoak Environmental (2019), the project area contains remnant coastal vegetation, planted and naturally re-established native vegetation on previously cleared land and landscaped gardens (amenity planting). The vegetation under application contains areas of remnant Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland at Site B1 and C1 and Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low Woodland at Site C2, which meet all the key diagnostic characteristics of a Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community. Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological communities are listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. Key diagnostic characteristics for describing the Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community include: • occurs south of 23° 37' S latitude - from the central Mackay coast on the east coast of Australia, southerly around to Shark Bay on the west coast of Australia (26° latitude), and including the Tasmanian coast and islands within the above range • occurs on the coastal margin, along estuaries and coastal embayment’s and on low wave energy coasts • occurs on places with at least some tidal connection, including rarely-inundated supratidal areas, intermittently opened or closed lagoons, and groundwater tidal influences, but not areas receiving only aerosol spray • occurs on sandy or muddy substrate and may include coastal clay pans (and the like) • consists of dense to patchy areas of characteristic coastal saltmarsh plant species (i.e. salt- tolerant herbs, succulent shrubs or grasses, that may also include bare sediment as part of the mosaic) and • proportional cover by tree canopy such as mangroves, Melaleucas or Casuarinas is not greater than 50%, nor is proportional ground cover by seagrass greater than 50% (DSEWPC 20133). Note: an EPBC referral is not required for Vulnerable Threatened Ecological Community listed under the EPBC Act 1999.

3 Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPC) (2013) Conservation Advice for Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh. Canberra. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/communities/pubs/118-conservation-advice.pdf, DSEWPC Canberra.

Page 11 of 43

Page 12 of 43

Details of the vegetation associates/scattered trees proposed to be impacted Note: All photos shown below were supplied by Matt Launer from Blackoak Environmental. Site A1 (Map 4) Vegetation Previously cleared site with scattered chenopod shrubs Association Photo 1: Viewing north east into Site A1

General Previously a cleared urban block with scattered native species including Convolvulus remotus description (Grassy Bindweed) and Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush). Regeneration at the time of the site assessment was recorded as very low, consisting of highly scattered juvenile plants of a limited number of species. The majority of the groundcover layer was dominated by introduced flora species with only 5-10% native species cover. One declared plant species listed under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019, Tribulus terrestris (Caltrop), was recorded in Site A1. The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site A1 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NP&W Act 1972) or EPBC species or Act 1999 listed flora species or community were recorded in Site A1. community Due to the scattered and degraded nature of the native vegetation present within Site A1 the area is unlikely to provide habitat for any threatened native fauna species. Landscape 1.04 Vegetation 10.54 Conservation 1.00 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 10.96 Area (ha) 0.14 Total biodiversity 1.53 Score Score

Page 13 of 43

Page 14 of 43

Site B1 (Map 5) Vegetation Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland Association Photo 2: Viewing west into Site B1

General Adjoining a public beach bordering an urban environment, Site B1 is dominated with low salt- description tolerant native shrubs species including Sarcocornia quinqueflora (Beaded Samphire), Suaeda australis (Austral Seablite) and Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. longispicata (Grey Samphire). Emerging Avicennia marina ssp. marina (Grey Mangrove) are also present within the site. No introduced flora species were recorded. The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site B1 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 were recorded in Site B1. species or The vegetation in Site B1 may be considered a Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community community which are listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. Search results registered the following wetland fauna species that have been recorded in the vicinity of Site B1 (for further information see Section 4.2 below): • Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) (SA: rare) • Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) (Aus: critically endangered) • Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus) (SA: vulnerable) • Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) (SA: rare) • Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus) (SA: rare) • (Australian) Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (SA: rare) • Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) (SA: rare) • Australian Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis) (Aus: vulnerable, SA: endangered) Landscape 1.07 Vegetation 54.68 Conservation 1.45 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 84.84 Area (ha) 0.032 Total biodiversity 2.71 Score Score

Page 15 of 43

Site B2 (Map 5) Vegetation Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low Closed Forest Association Photo 3: Viewing south west into Site B2

General Adjoining a public beach bordering an urban environment, Site B2 is dominated with very low description Avicennia marina ssp. marina (Grey Mangrove). Sarcocornia quinqueflora (Beaded Samphire) and Suaeda australis (Austral Seablite) were recorded on the Avicennia marina ssp. marina forest fringe. The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site B2 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 listed flora species or species or community were recorded in Site B2. community Search results registered the following wetland fauna species that have been recorded in the vicinity of Site B2 (for further information see Section 4.2 below): • Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) (SA: rare) • Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) (Aus: critically endangered) • Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus) (SA: vulnerable) • Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) (SA: rare) • Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus) (SA: rare) • (Australian) Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (SA: rare) • Australian Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis) (Aus: vulnerable, SA: endangered) • Striped Honeyeater (Plectorhyncha lanceolata)(SA: rare) Landscape 1.07 Vegetation 58.03 Conservation 1.10 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 68.30 Area (ha) 0.085 Total biodiversity 5.81 Score Score

Page 16 of 43

Page 17 of 43

Site C1 (Map 6) Vegetation Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland Association Photo 4: Viewing west into Site C1

General Bordering an urban environment, Site C1 is dominated with low salt-tolerant native shrubs description species including Sarcocornia quinqueflora (Beaded Samphire), Suaeda australis (Austral Seablite), Tecticornia arbuscula (Shrubby Samphire) and Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. longispicata (Grey Samphire). Emerging Avicennia marina ssp. marina (Grey Mangrove) are also present within the area. No introduced flora species were recorded. The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site C1 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 were recorded in Site C1. species or The vegetation in Site C1 may be considered a Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community community which are listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. Search results registered the following wetland fauna species that have been recorded in the vicinity of Site C1 (for further information see Section 4.2 below): • Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) (SA: rare) • Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) (Aus: critically endangered) • Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus) (SA: vulnerable) • Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) (SA: rare) • Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus) (SA: rare) • (Australian) Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (SA: rare) • Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) (SA: rare) • Australian Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis) (Aus: vulnerable, SA: endangered) Landscape 1.07 Vegetation 69.19 Conservation 1.45 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 107.35 Area (ha) 0.177 Total biodiversity 19.00 Score Score

Page 18 of 43

Site C2 (Map 6) Vegetation Avicennia marina ssp. marina Very Low Woodland Association Photo 5: Viewing north west into Site C2

General Bordering an urban environment, Site C2 is dominated with very low Avicennia marina ssp. description marina (Grey Mangrove). Sarcocornia quinqueflora (Beaded Samphire), Suaeda australis (Austral Seablite) Tecticornia arbuscula (Shrubby Samphire) and Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. longispicata (Grey Samphire) were recorded on the Avicennia marina ssp. marina woodland fringe. Site C2 is located within an existing SEB area (2002_2097). The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site C2 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 were recorded in Site C2. species or The vegetation in Site C2 may be considered a Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh ecological community community which are listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. This area contains saltmarsh flora species and the Avicennia marina ssp. marina contains a proportional tree canopy cover of less than 50%. Search results registered the following wetland fauna species that have been recorded in the vicinity of Site C2 (for further information see Section 4.2 below): • Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) (SA: rare) • Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) (Aus: critically endangered) • Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus) (SA: vulnerable) • Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) (SA: rare) • Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus) (SA: rare) • (Australian) Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (SA: rare) • Australian Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis) (Aus: vulnerable, SA: endangered) Landscape 1.07 Vegetation 64.73 Conservation 1.45 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 100.43 Area (ha) 0.026 Total biodiversity 2.61 Score Score

Page 19 of 43

Site C3 (Map 6) Vegetation Previously cleared sites with planted non-local species and scattered native understorey Association species Photo 6: Viewing west into Site C3

General Previously cleared sites within an urban environment with planted non-local species description (including Eucalyptus sp. and Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and scattered native understorey species including Acacia salicina (Willow Wattle), Acacia victoriae ssp (Elegant Wattle), and Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush). Regeneration at the time of the site assessment was recorded as very low, consisting of highly scattered juvenile plants of a limited number of species. The majority of the groundcover layer was dominated by introduced flora species with only 5-10% native species cover. Three declared plant species listed under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019 were recorded in Site C3. They include Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Cenchrus setaceus (Fountain Grass) and Cenchrus ciliaris (Buffel Grass). The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site C3 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 listed flora species or species or community were recorded in Site C3. community Due to the scattered and degraded nature of the native vegetation present within Site C3 the area is unlikely to provide habitat for any threatened native fauna species. Landscape 1.07 Vegetation 27.63 Conservation 1.00 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 29.56 Area (ha) 0.224 Total biodiversity 6.62 Score Score

Page 20 of 43

Page 21 of 43

Site D1-D4 (Map 7) Vegetation Previously cleared sites with planted non-local species and scattered native understorey Association species Photo 7: Vegetation within Site D1

Photo 8: Vegetation within Site D2

Page 22 of 43

Photo 9: Vegetation within Site D3

Photo 10: Vegetation within Site D4

Page 23 of 43

General Previously cleared sites within an urban environment with planted non-local species description (including Eucalyptus sp., Atriplex nummularia ssp. and Casuarina sp.) and scattered native understorey species including Acacia salicina (Willow Wattle), Acacia victoriae ssp (Elegant Wattle), and Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush). These areas are likely to have been originally cleared of native vegetation during the construction of the Greater Western Bridge (approximately 1927) and Joy Baluch Bridge in 1972 (Blackoak Environmental 2019). Regeneration at the time of the site assessment was recorded as very low, consisting of highly scattered juvenile plants of a limited number of species. The majority of the groundcover layer was dominated by introduced flora species with only 5-10% native species cover. Four declared plant species listed under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019 were recorded in Site D1-D4. They include Gazania linearis (Gazania), Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Tribulus terrestris (Caltrop) and Cenchrus ciliaris (Buffel Grass). The full flora species list recorded during the survey in Site D1-D4 is shown in Appendix 4. Threatened No threatened flora under the NP&W Act 1972 or EPBC Act 1999 listed flora species or species or community were recorded in Site D1-D4. community Due to the scattered and degraded nature of the native vegetation present within Site D1-D4 the areas are unlikely to provide habitat for any threatened native fauna species. Landscape 1.04 Vegetation 22.28 Conservation 1.00 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 23.17 Area (ha) 0.571 Total biodiversity 13.23 Score Score

Page 24 of 43

Page 25 of 43

Site E1 (Map 8) Note: As discussed above, the project will require the construction of several pillars for the new bridge development which will impact approximately 0.0052 ha of the seabed within Site E1. At present, it is unknown if this will have impact to seagrasses in this area. In order to calculate potential impacts to seagrasses and the SEB requirements, this report has made the assumption that marine flora species are present. To determine which seagrass species may be impacted, a review of the Atlas of Living Australia records was conducted within 10km of the proposed clearance area and the seagrass species previously recorded included in the desktop assessment. Once an onsite assessment has been undertaken, this data report will be amended accordingly to adjust and finalise the Total Biodiversity Scores and SEB offset requirements for Site E1. Vegetation Seagrass meadow Association No Photo General Site assessment yet to be undertaken. Species identified in the desktop assessment include: description • Posidonia australis (Southern Tapeweed) • Posidonia sinuosa (Narrow-leaf Tapeweed) • Amphibolis antarctica (Sea Nymph) • Zostera muelleri ssp. mucronata (Garweed) • Posidonia angustifolia (Narrow-leaf Tapeweed) • Halophila australis (Paddle Weed) Refer to Site E1 Scoresheet in Appendix 3 for further details regarding assumption made during the desktop assessment. Threatened Not available at present. However, records indicate that Zostera muelleri ssp. Mucronata species or (Garweed) may be located in the area. This species is listed as rare under the NPW Act. community Landscape 1.10 Vegetation 38.75 Conservation 1.02 context score Condition Score significance score Unit biodiversity 43.48 Area (ha) 0.052 Total biodiversity 0.23 Score Score

Page 26 of 43

Page 27 of 43

4.2 Threatened Species assessment Threatened species observed on site, or recorded within 5km (50km in the arid zone) of the application area since 1995, or the vegetation is considered to provide suitable habitat

Species (common name) NP&W EPBC Data Date of Species known Likelihood of use for Act Act source last habitat preferences habitat – Comments 1972 1999 record Actitis hypoleucos (Common R 2 2011 Utilises a wide range Possible Sandpiper) of coastal wetlands and some inland wetlands, with varying levels of salinity, and is mostly found around muddy margins or rocky shores and rarely on mudflats. Amytornis textilis myall (Western VU 5 Occurs in open Unlikely Grasswren (Gawler Ranges)) Atriplex spp. and bluebush Maireana spp. shrublands with a sparse or open overstorey of low trees or shrubs. Anas rhynchotis (Australasian R 2 2017 Prefers large Unlikely Shoveler) undisturbed heavily vegetated freshwater swamps. Ardea intermedia (Intermediate R 2 2019 Prefers freshwater Unlikely Egret) swamps, billabongs, floodplains and wet grasslands with dense aquatic vegetation Ardeotis australis (Australian V 2 2018 Inland and tropical Unlikely Bustard) north of mainland Australia Biziura lobata (Musk Duck) R 2 2018 Found in deep Unlikely freshwater lagoons, with dense reed beds. Calidris canutus (Red Knot) EN 5 Intertidal mudflats, Unlikely sandflats and sandy beaches of sheltered coasts, in estuaries, bays, inlets, lagoons and harbours. Calidris ferruginea (Curlew CR 2, 5 2018 Occurs on intertidal Possible Sandpiper) mudflats in sheltered coastal areas, such as estuaries, bays, inlets and lagoons, and also around non-tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons near the coast, and ponds in saltworks and sewage farms. Cereopsis novaehollandiae (Cape R 2 2016 Found on offshore Unlikely Barren Goose) islands, usually granite, in areas of

Page 28 of 43

pasture, tussock grass or low heathy scrub. Cladorhynchus leucocephalus V 2 2018 Found mainly in Possible (Banded Stilt) saline and hypersaline waters of the inland and coast, typically large, open and shallow. Corcorax melanorhamphos R 2 2015 Found in open forests Unlikely (White-Winged Chough) and woodlands. Coturnix ypsilophora (Brown Quail) V 2 2014 Dense grasslands, Unlikely often on the edges of open forests, and bracken. Egretta garzetta (Little Egret) R 2 2018 Tidal mudflats, Possible saltwater and freshwater wetlands, and mangroves. Falco hypoleucos (Grey Falcon) R V 5 Usually confined to Unlikely the arid inland. It inhabits Triodia grassland, Acacia shrubland, and lightly timbered arid woodland. Falco peregrinus (Peregrine R 2 2019 Prefers coastal and Unlikely Falcon) inland cliffs or open woodlands near water. Haematopus fuliginosus (Sooty R 2 2019 Strictly coastal, Possible Oystercatcher) usually within 50 m of the ocean. It prefers rocky shores, but will be seen on coral reefs or sandy beaches near mudflats. It breeds on offshore islands and isolated rocky headlands. Haematopus longirostris (Pied R 2 2019 Prefers mudflats, Possible Oystercatcher) sandbanks and sandy ocean beaches and is less common along rocky or shingle coastlines. Leipoa ocellata (Malleefowl) V 5 Found in semi-arid to Unlikely arid shrublands and low woodlands, especially those dominated by mallee and/or acacias. Limosa lapponica baueri (Bar- V 5 Inhabit estuarine Unlikely tailed Godwit) mudflats, beaches and mangroves. Lophochroa leadbeateri (Major R 2 2018 Inhabit semi-arid and Unlikely Mitchell's Cockatoo) arid regions, mainly inland, but in some coastal areas. They usually inhabit dry woodlands in arid and

Page 29 of 43

semi-arid areas, usually where eucalypts or acacias dominate the vegetation. Myiagra inquieta (Restless R 2 2016 Found in open forests Unlikely Flycatcher) and woodlands and frequently seen in farmland. Neophema chrysostoma (Blue- V 2 2017 Favours grasslands Unlikely Winged Parrot) and grassy woodlands. Neophema elegans (Elegant R 2 2019 Found in a wide Possible Parrot) variety of habitats, including grasslands, shrublands, mallee, woodlands and thickets, bluebush plains, heathlands, saltmarsh and farmland. Numenius madagascariensis V CR 5 Most commonly Unlikely (Eastern Curlew) associated with sheltered coasts, especially estuaries, bays, harbours, inlets and coastal lagoons, with large intertidal mudflats or sandflats, often with beds of seagrass. Pachycephala inornata (Gilbert's R 2 2017 Usually inhabit semi- Unlikely Whistler) arid mallee or box– ironbark eucalypt, acacia, cypress-pine or Belah shrublands and, usually with a dense, continuous or patchy understorey of shrubs such as acacias, Eremophila, Dodonaea or Cassia. Plectorhyncha lanceolata (Striped R 2 2012 Found in forests and Possible Honeyeater) woodlands, often along rivers, as well as mangroves and in urban gardens. Podiceps cristatus R 2 2018 Prefers well vegetated Unlikely (Great Crested Grebe) margins and reedbeds in channels near open waters or large lakes and reservoirs. Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey- R VU 2, 5 2018 Variety of habitats, Unlikely Headed Flying-Fox) including rainforests, woodlands, and swamps. Rostratula australis (Australian V EN 5 Generally inhabits Unlikely Painted Snipe shallow terrestrial freshwater

Page 30 of 43

(occasionally brackish) wetlands, including temporary and permanent lakes, swamps and claypans. Sternula nereis (Fairy Tern) E VU 2, 5 2018 Nests on sheltered Possible sandy beaches, spits and banks above the high tide line and below vegetation. Stictonetta naevosa V 2 2015 Prefers permanent Unlikely (Freckled Duck) freshwater swamps and creeks with heavy growth of Cumbungi (bullrushes), lignum or tea-tree. Tringa brevipes (Grey-Tailed Tattler) R 2 2018 Found in intertidal Unlikely rocky, coral or stony reefs, platforms and islets that are exposed at high tide, also shores of rock, shingle, gravel and shells and on intertidal mudflats in embayments, estuaries and coastal lagoons, especially those fringed with mangroves. Source; 1- BDBSA, 2 - AoLA, 3 – NatueMaps 4 – Observed/recorded in the field, 5 - Protected matters search tool, 6 – others NP&W Act 1972; E= Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R= Rare EPBC Act 1999; Ex = Extinct, CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered; VU = Vulnerable

Criteria for the likelihood of occurrence of species within the Study area.

Likelihood Criteria Highly Recorded in the last 10 years, the species does not have highly specific niche requirements, the habitat is Likely/Known present and falls within the known range of the species distribution or; The species was recorded as part of field surveys.

Likely Recorded within the previous 20 years, the area falls within the known distribution of the species and the area provides habitat or feeding resources for the species.

Possible Recorded within the previous 20 years, the area falls inside the known distribution of the species, but the area does not provide habitat or feeding resources for the species. Recorded within 20 -40 years, survey effort is considered adequate, habitat and feeding resources present, and species of similar habitat needs have been recorded in the area.

Unlikely Recorded within 20 -40 years; however, suitable habitat does not occur, and species of similar habitat requirements have not been recorded in the area. No records despite adequate survey effort.

Page 31 of 43

4.3 Cumulative impact When exercising a power or making a decision under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017, the NVC must consider the potential cumulative impact, both direct and indirect, that is reasonably likely to result from a proposed clearance activity. Direct Impacts

The direct impacts to native vegetation of the proposed development are discussed above in Section 4.1.

Indirect Impacts

No indirect impacts are foreseen for the proposed development. The JBAMBD project will avoid indirect impacts to native vegetation by implement an environmental management protection system during construction, such as establishing vegetation protection zones, educating site staff, suppressing dust, designating site access routes and managing the spread and introduction of weed species.

Cumulative Impacts

There are no additional clearances associated with this development and application. 4.4 Address the Mitigation Hierarchy When exercising a power or making a decision under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017, the NVC must have regard to the mitigation hierarchy. The NVC will also consider, with the aim to minimize, impacts on biological diversity, soil, water and other natural resources, threatened species or ecological communities under the EPBC Act 1999 or listed species under the NP&W Act 1972.

a) Avoidance – outline measures taken to avoid clearance of native vegetation Project initiatives and measure to avoid impacts to native vegetation include: • The design of the JBAMBD project has been chosen to predominantly run adjacent of the existing highway and bridge. This allows the project to utilise the pre-existing roads and limits the encroachment of new infrastructure into adjacent areas containing native vegetation. • Refinement of the shared use pedestrian path design from a large arching structure to a narrower angled path. This allowed the Project to reduce the footprint of the path and thus impacts to native vegetation in the area. • Road embankments steepened to reduce encroachment into neighboring land and adjacent native vegetation. • Construction methodology allows for site access and temporary works to be within the general construction footprint. Site compound and lay down areas have also been assigned to previously disturbed areas. b) Minimization – if clearance cannot be avoided, outline measures taken to minimize the extent, duration and intensity of impacts of the clearance on biodiversity to the fullest possible extent (whether the impact is direct, indirect or cumulative). Where clearance cannot be avoided all reasonable measures will be taken to minimise further impacts to native vegetation during construction activities. Such measures include; delineating native vegetation with exclusion zone fencing, use of non-destructive excavation techniques where practical, education and training of site staff regarding native vegetation protection, strict use of designated access points/routes, engagement of suitably qualified consultants (ecologist, arborists, fauna spotter-catchers etc), ongoing weed management to avoid the introduction and spread of weed species and effective dust mitigation by ongoing dust suppression and revegetation of disturbed areas (PW2PA, personal communication 3 July 2020).

Page 32 of 43

c) Rehabilitation or restoration – outline measures taken to rehabilitate ecosystems that have been degraded, and to restore ecosystems that have been degraded, or destroyed by the impact of clearance that cannot be avoided or further minimized, such as allowing for the re-establishment of the vegetation. There will be little opportunity to rehabilitate or restore the impacted native vegetation once the construction of the new bridge and associated road works has been completed. Some of the road batters leading into the bridge will require rock armouring as they are in the inter-tidal zone and will need to be protected against erosion. Where appropriate, local species that enhance the arid coastal ecological theme will be used for planting in areas where rock armouring on batters is not required. d) Offset – any adverse impact on native vegetation that cannot be avoided or further minimized should be offset by the achievement of a significant environmental benefit that outweighs that impact. As stated below in Section 6, the applicant has requested preference to provide the Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) through payment into the NVC Fund.

4.5 Principles of Clearance (Schedule 1, Native Vegetation Act 1991) The Native Vegetation Council will consider Principles 1(b), 1(c) and 1(d) when assigning a level of Risk under Regulation 16 of the Native Vegetation Regulations. The Native Vegetation Council will consider all the Principles of clearance of the Act as relevant, when considering an application referred under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016.

Principle of Relevant information Assessment against Moderating factors that may clearance the principles be considered by the NVC Principle 1b - No threatened species were recorded Seriously at Variance Due to the small size of Sites B1 significance during the site assessment. - Site B1 & C1: (0.032ha), B2 (0.085), C1 as a habitat Sarcocornia (0.117ha) & C2 (0.026ha) and Search results registered the for wildlife quinqueflora Low that similar ecological following threatened wetland and Closed Shrubland communities are well marine fauna species that have been represented in the Upper recorded in the vicinity of Sites B1, - Site B2: Avicennia Spencer Gulf region; clearance B2, C1 & C2 which may potentially marina ssp. marina of these areas may not use these sites as habitat: Very Low Closed significantly reduce the Forest • Common Sandpiper (Actitis availability of habitat for these hypoleucos) (SA: rare) - Site C2: Avicennia species in the region or lead to a • Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris marina ssp. marina long-term decrease in the size ferruginea) (Aus: critically Very Low woodland of a population. endangered) • Banded Stilt (Cladorhynchus In addition, given the sites leucocephalus) (SA: vulnerable) proximity to an existing major • Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) (SA: transport route, the NVC may rare) consider it unlikely that the • Sooty Oystercatcher listed species would utilises (Haematopus fuliginosus) (SA: these areas as suitable habitat. rare) • Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris) (SA: rare) • Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) (SA: rare) (Site B1 & C1 only) • Australian Fairy Tern (Sternula nereis nereis) (Aus: vulnerable, SA: endangered) (Site B1 & C1 only)

Page 33 of 43

• Striped Honeyeater (Plectorhyncha lanceolata)(SA: rare) (Site B2 & C2 only) Due to the scattered and degraded nature of the native vegetation present within Sites A1, D1-4 & C3 these sites are unlikely to provide suitable habitat to any fauna species of conservational significance. Patches: Threatened Fauna Score: Sites B1, B2, C1 & C2 scored 0.1 Unit biodiversity Score: • Site B1: 84.84 • Site B2: 68.30 • Site C1: 107.35 • Site C2: 100.43 Principle 1c - No threatened species recorded Not at Variance plants of a within the proposed clearance areas. rare, vulnerable or Threatened Flora Scores: All sites endangered scored 0.00. species Principle 1d - The vegetation in Sites B1, C1 & C2 Seriously at Variance Due to the small size of Sites B1 the may be considered a Temperate - Site B1 & C1: (0.032ha), C1 (0.117ha) & C2 vegetation Coastal Saltmarsh ecological Sarcocornia (0.026ha) and that similar comprises the community which are listed as quinqueflora Low ecological communities are well whole or vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. Closed Shrubland represented in the Upper part of a Spencer Gulf region; clearance - Site C2: Avicennia plant Threatened Community Score: Sites of these areas will not marina ssp. marina community B1, C1 & C2 scored 1.35. significantly reduce the overall Very Low woodland that is Rare, extent of Temperate Coastal Vulnerable or Saltmarshes in the region or endangered: lead to a long-term adverse effect in their regional cover.

4.6 Risk Assessment Determine the level of risk associated with the application

Total No. of trees 0 clearance Area (ha) 1.2002 Total biodiversity Score 51.74 Seriously at variance with principle 1(b): Site B1, B2, C1 & C2 1(b), 1(c) or 1 (d) 1(d): Site B1, C1 & C2 Risk assessment outcome Level 4

Page 34 of 43

Page 35 of 43

5. Clearance summary

Clearance Areas Summary table

SEB SEB

Site

UBS

ea(ha)

Total Total

score score

Block

Score

Species Species

diversity required

Loadings

payment

Ar

Ecological Ecological

SEB Points Points SEB

Admin Fee Admin

Loss factor Loss

plant score plant

Reductions

community community

Threatened Threatened Threatened score fauna Biodiversity Biodiversity

A A1 9 1 0 0 10.96 0.14 1.53 1 1.61 $532.20 $29.27 B B1 24 1.35 0 0.1 84.84 0.032 2.71 1 2.85 $937.82 $51.58 B B2 27 1 0 0.1 68.30 0.085 5.81 1 6.10 $2,005.49 $110.30 C C1 30 1.35 0 0.1 107.35 0.117 19.00 1 19.95 $6,563.55 $360.99 C C2 30 1.35 0 0.1 100.43 0.026 2.61 1 0.5 4.11 $1,352.90 $74.41 C C3 24 1 0 0 29.56 0.224 6.62 1 6.95 $2,287.44 $125.81 D D1-4 18 1 0 0 23.17 0.571 13.23 1 13.89 $4,570.53 $251.38 E E1 14 1 0.02 0 43.48 0.0052 0.23 1 0.23 $296.73 $16.32 Total 1.2002 51.74 55.69 $18,546.66 $1,020.06

Totals summary table Total Total SEB Biodiversity points score required SEB Payment Admin Fee Total Payment

Application 51.74 55.56 $18,546.66 $1,020.06 $19,566.72

Economies of Scale Factor 0.5 Rainfall (mm) 253-254

6. Significant Environmental Benefit

A Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) is required for approval to clear under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017. The NVC must be satisfied that as a result of the loss of vegetation from the clearance that an SEB will result in a positive impact on the environment that is over and above the negative impact of the clearance.

ACHIEVING AN SEB Indicate how the SEB will be achieved by ticking the appropriate box and providing the associated information:

Establish a new SEB Area on land owned by the proponent.

Use SEB Credit that the proponent has established. Provide the SEB Credit Ref. No. ______

Page 36 of 43

Apply to have SEB Credit assigned from another person or body. The application form needs to be submitted with this Data Report.

Apply to have an SEB to be delivered by a Third Party. The application form needs to be submitted with this Data Report.

Pay into the Native Vegetation Fund.

PAYMENT SEB If a proponent proposes to achieve the SEB by paying into the Native Vegetation Fund, summary information must be provided on the amount required to be paid and the manner of payment: • Total SEB Amount: $19,566.72 Subject to the herewith application and associated documents being granted approval by the NVC, SEB payment to the Native Vegetation Fund is to take place prior to any native vegetation clearance activities associated with the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication

Page 37 of 43

7. Appendices

Appendix 1. Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication design plans and project layout

Page 38 of 43

Page 39 of 43

Appendix 2. Ecological Assessment for the Joy Baluch AM Bridge duplication Project - Blackoak Environmental, 2019 (Supplied as PDF file)

Page 40 of 43

Appendix 3. Bushland Assessment Scoresheets associated with the proposed clearance (supplied as Excel files)

Page 41 of 43

Appendix 4. Flora Species List Scientific Name Common Name A1 B1 B2 C1 C2 C3 D1-4 Acacia ligulata Umbrella Bush √ √ √ Acacia salicina Willow Wattle √ √ Acacia victoriae ssp. Elegant Wattle √ √ Atriplex lindleyi ssp. Baldoo √ Atriplex nummularia ssp.*# Old-man Saltbush √ Atriplex velutinella Sandhill Saltbush √ Atriplex vesicaria Bladder Saltbush √ Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass √ Avicennia marina ssp. marina Grey Mangrove √ √ √ √ Convolvulus remotus Grassy Bindweed √ Dissocarpus paradoxus Ball Bindyi √ Enchylaena tomentosa var. Ruby Saltbush √ √ Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass √ Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp.# River Red Gum √ Eucalyptus sp.*# √ √ Maireana brevifolia Short-leaf Bluebush √ √ √ Maireana oppositifolia Salt Bluebush √ Maireana pentatropis Erect Mallee Bluebush √ Maireana pyramidata Black Bluebush √ Maireana sedifolia Bluebush √ Nitraria billardierei Nitre-bush √ Salsola australis Buckbush √ √ Sarcocornia quinqueflora Beaded Samphire √ √ √ √ Sarcozona praecox Sarcozona √ Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Oblique-spined Bindyi √ Senna artemisioides ssp. alicia x ssp. Desert Senna √ coriacea Sida intricata Twiggy Sida √ Suaeda australis Austral Seablite √ √ √ √ Tecticornia arbuscula Shrubby Samphire √ √ Tecticornia halocnemoides ssp. Grey Samphire √ √ √ longispicata Tecticornia sp. Samphire √ Wilsonia humilis Silky Wilsonia √ Zygophyllum √ aurantiacum/eremaeum Asphodelus fistulosus* Onion Weed √ √ Avena barbata* Bearded Oat √ √ Brassica tournefortii* Wild Turnip √ Cenchrus ciliaris*+ Buffel Grass √ √ Cenchrus setaceus*+ Fountain Grass √ Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Couch √ √ Dimorphotheca fruticosa* Trailing African Daisy √ Galenia pubescens var. pubescens* Coastal Galenia √ √ Gazania linearis*+ Gazania √ Hordeum glaucum* Blue Barley-grass √ Lactuca serriola f.* Prickly Lettuce √

Page 42 of 43

Scientific Name Common Name A1 B1 B2 C1 C2 C3 D1-4 Lycium ferocissimum*+ African Boxthorn √ √ Mesembryanthemum crystallinum* Common Iceplant √ Reichardia tingitana* False Sowthistle √ Sisymbrium erysimoides* Smooth Mustard √ Suaeda aegyptiaca* √ Tribulus terrestris*+ Caltrop √ √ *Introduced species, +Declared plant, #: Planted

Page 43 of 43