Sydney Water Corporation Review of Environmental Factors – Bargo Wastewater Scheme

Appendix C Ecological Impact Assessments

Ref: 433990 January 2013 Final

Sydney Water Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

January 2013

This Ecological Impact Assessment (“Report”): 1. has been prepared by GHD Pty for Sydney Water; 2. may only be used and relied on by Sydney Water; 3. may only be used for the purpose of determining the Review of Environmental Factors for the Bargo Wastewater Scheme (and must not be used for any other purpose). GHD and its servants, employees and officers otherwise expressly disclaim responsibility to any person other than Sydney Water arising from or in connection with this Report. To the maximum extent permitted by law, all implied warranties and conditions in relation to the services provided by GHD and the Report are excluded unless they are expressly stated to apply in this Report. The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing this Report: x were limited to those specifically detailed in section 1.1 and sections 3.1 and 3.2 of this Report; x were subject to the survey considerations discussed in section 3.2.3 of this Report The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this Report are based on assumptions made by GHD when undertaking services and preparing the Report (“Assumptions”), including (but not limited to): x that the Proposal description, including construction methods and mitigation measures described by Sydney Water is accurate and complete x That the Proposal Footprint provided by Sydney Water is accurate and that the proposal will not result in any impacts on the natural environment outside of this area GHD expressly disclaims responsibility for any error in, or omission from, this Report arising from or in connection with any of the Assumptions being incorrect. Subject to the paragraphs in this section of the Report, the opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this Report are based on conditions encountered and information reviewed at the time of preparation. GHD expressly disclaims responsibility for any error in, or omission from, this Report arising from or in connection with those opinions, conclusions and any recommendations.

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Contents

1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Proposal description ...... 1 1.2 Terms and definitions ...... 2 1.3 Site location and layout ...... 2

2. Legislative context ...... 4 2.1 NSW legislation ...... 4 2.2 State Environmental Planning Policies ...... 5 2.3 Commonwealth legislation ...... 6

3. Methods ...... 8 3.1 Desktop assessment ...... 8 3.2 Field surveys ...... 10

4. Existing environment ...... 12 4.1 Landscape context ...... 12 4.2 Flora ...... 12 4.3 Fauna...... 16 4.4 Conservation significance ...... 22

5. Potential impacts ...... 27 5.1 Measures to avoid direct impacts...... 27 5.2 Direct impacts during Construction ...... 29 5.3 Indirect impacts during construction ...... 33 5.4 Operational impacts...... 35 5.5 Cumulative impacts ...... 37 5.6 Key Threatening Processes ...... 37

6. Mitigation measures ...... 40 6.1 Avoidance of impacts ...... 40 6.2 Mitigation of impacts ...... 40 6.3 Offsetting of Impacts...... 43

7. Assessments of significance ...... 44 7.1 Identification of affected threatened biota...... 44 7.2 Impacts on threatened biota listed under NSW legislation ...... 45

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7.3 Impacts on MNES ...... 45

8. Conclusions ...... 46

References ...... 48

Table Index Table 1 Key to likelihood of occurrence for threatened biota 9 Table 2 Survey effort 11 Table 3 Vegetation communities recorded in the study area 14 Table 4 Declared noxious weeds of the Wollondilly LGA recorded during the field survey 15 Table 5 Identified constraint classes 28 Table 6 Key threatening processes 38 Table 7 Fauna species list 1 Table 8 Flora species list 1

Figure Index Figure 1 Proposal footprint and ecological constraints (northern section) 2 Figure 2 Proposal footprint and ecological constraints (southern section) 3 Figure 3 Threatened biota and habitat features (northern section)20 Figure 4 Threatened biota and habitat features (southernsection)21

Appendices A Species Lists B TSC Act Assessment of Significance C EPBC Act Assessment of Significance

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1. Introduction

GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) has been engaged by the Sydney Water Corporation (Sydney Water) to undertake a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the proposed Bargo Wastewater Scheme (subsequently referred to as the ‘proposal’ for the purposes of this report). The proposal aims to provide improved wastewater services to the subsidised service area of Bargo. The preferred servicing strategy is a pressure sewerage collection system within the Bargo village, transfer of the wastewater to a new WRP located north of Bargo and effluent management via sub-surface irrigation. This Ecological Impact Assessment has been prepared as a supporting document to the REF. It assesses the potential for impacts on ecological values, with particular emphasis on threatened ecological communities, populations and species listed under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act), and Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) listed under the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Mitigation measures to ameliorate potential impacts of the proposal are included in Section 7 of this report.

1.1 Proposal description The proposal footprint is shown in Figure 1 and 2. The proposal would provide a reticulated wastewater service to existing, unsewered urban properties within the subsidised service area of Bargo. The preferred servicing strategy for the Bargo wastewater scheme would involve a pressure sewer collection system for each property with transfer from a new Wastewater Pumping Station (WWPS) via a 2.3 km transfer main to a new Water Recycling Plant (WRP) located 1 km north of Bargo (Figure 1). Following treatment at the WRP, effluent would be discharged via sub-surface irrigation to a land application area. The proposal would include:

 on-property pressure sewerage system (PSS) equipment to eligible properties within the subsidised service area

 approximately 16.2km of pressure reticulation

 a barometric loop approximately 14m high (near the existing reservoir site)

 a gravity trunk main approximately 1km long connecting the reticulation network to a new Wastewater Pumping Station (WWPS)

 a new WWPS and chemical dosing unit (CDU) in Bargo

 approximately 2.3km transfer main from the WWPS to a new Water Recycling Plant (WRP) and access road within the irrigation area located approximately 1 km north of Bargo

 a sub-surface irrigation field for land treatment of effluent within the land application area adjoining the WRP and associated grassed swales and on-site detention ponds to manage surface water flows

 other ancillary assets such as air release facilities, isolation valves and flushing points. The reticulation network and transfer main would generally be constructed by open trenching. The section of the transfer main between Great Southern Road and Remembrance Driveway would be

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under-bored (as shown in Figure 1). The section of the gravity main between Great Southern Road and Remembrance Driveway would also be under-bored (as shown in Figure 2). Further detail about construction techniques and the operation of the irrigation area are provided in the REF (CH2M Hill, 2012).The location of all infrastructure required for the proposal would be confirmed during detailed design.

1.2 Terms and definitions The following terms are used in this report:

 Proposal footprint: the area to be directly impacted by the proposal (see Figure 1 and Figure 2). This comprises the construction footprint for the proposal, including the subsidised service area, a pressure sewer collection system with transfer from a WWPS via a transfer main to the proposed WRP. The proposal footprint also includes the irrigation area which is the site for the WRP and associated access road, land application area, grassed swales and on-site detention ponds.

 Study area: the proposal footprint and any additional areas which are likely to be indirectly affected by the proposal. In this study it includes the proposal footprint and immediately adjacent areas of native vegetation. Generally this is taken to be 10 metres either side of the proposal footprint boundary.

 Locality: the area within a 10 km radius of the proposal footprint.

1.3 Site location and layout The site is located within the Wollondilly local government area (LGA) on the south coast of NSW. Bargo is linked to Tahmoor in the North and Yanderra in the south by Remembrance Driveway, the main arterial road running through the village. Bargo is also serviced by the Southern Highlands train line, which connects Bargo to Sydney via Campbelltown in the north, and Goulburn in the south (CH2MHill, 2012b). Bargo is surrounded by several National Parks and drinking water catchments. The Metropolitan Catchment is located 500 m to the south east of the village within the Upper Nepean State Conservation Area. The Warragamba Catchment, Nattai National Park and the Bargo State Conservation Area are located 4 km to the west of the village. The proposal footprint is shown on Figure 1 and 2 and comprises

 the following road reserves: - Remembrance Driveway - Paperbark Place - Avon Dam Road - Berrico Place - Reservoir Road - Noongah Street - Johnston Road - Bargo Road - Tylers Road - Wattle Street - Hawthorne Road - Ironbark Road - Nooral Street - Great Southern Road - Bingarra Place - Radnor Road

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- Cambalan Street - Phillipa Place - Panorama Street - Jack Davis Place - Kader Street - Elvy Street - Dymond Street - Hambridge Road - Railside Avenue - Scot Street - Biara Street - Justine Close - Laura Close - Hudson Place - Windsor Place - Thorncroft Close

 the proposed gravity main, transfer main and associated infrastructure

 potential bore locations (launch and exit pits) and associated under boring in the Great Southern Road and Remembrance Driveway road reserves.

 the WWPS and compound area to the east of Great Southern Road and the end of Hawthorne Road.

 the proposed irrigation area and an area 10 metres either side of the existing access road.

3 21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment Map Inset

Transfer Main

Remembrance Driveway

Scot Street Hambridge Road Ironbark Road Thorncroft Close Hudson Place Wattle Street Justine Close

GreatSouthern Road

Elvy Street Cambalan Street Windsor Place

Hawthorne Road

Phillipa Place Mimosa Street Laura Close Dymond Road

Biara Street Hambridge Road Kadar Street Jack Davis Place Panorama StreetRailside Avenue

Radnor Road

Kader Street

Berrico Place LEGEND Proposal Footprint Irrigation Area Ecological Constraints Class Bargo Road Noongah Street Subsidised Service Area Potential Bore Location Very Low Directional Drilling WRP and Access Road Low WWPS and Compound Area Land Application Area Medium Existing Storage Tank High 1:14,000 (at A4) Sydney Water Job Number 21-21291 050 100 200 300 400 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Revision A Date 15 Jan 2013 Metres Proposal Footprint and Geographic Coordinate System Horizontal Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 o Ecological Constraints (Northern Section) Figure 1 G:\21\21291\GIS\Maps\MXD\21_21291_Z022_Bargo_service_area_Ecological_Constraints_Figure 1_Site Location_ Ecological_Constraints_Northern Section.mxd Level 15, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 T 61 2 9239 7100 F 61 2 9239 7199 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2010. While GHD has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA, COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA , COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO cannot accept liability of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred as a result of the product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data Source: NSW Department of Lands: Cadastre - Jan 2011; Geoscience Australia: 250k Data - Jan 2011; Google Earth Pro: Imagery, Accessed: 31-10-2012. Created by:qjchung Scot Street Hambridge Road Ironbark Road Thorncroft Close

Wattle Street

Justine Close

Windsor Place Cambalan Street

Elvy Street

Hawthorne Road

Dymond Road Biara Street Radnor Road

Hambridge Road Kader Street Railside Avenue

Bargo Road Noongah Street

Bingarra Place Paperbark Place NooralJohnstone Street Road Tylers Road Tylers Road

Hawthorne Road

Avon Dam Road Hawthorne Road Remembrance Driveway

Tylers Road

Avon Dam Road Marshall Avenue

Reservoir Road

Avon Dam Road ·2010Google LEGEND Proposal Footprint Ecological Constraints Class Subidised Service Area Very Low Existing Storage Tank Low Directional Drilling Medium Potential Bore Location High

1:12,500 (at A4) Sydney Water Job Number 21-21291 050 100 200 300 400 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Revision A Date 11 Jan 2013 Metres Geographic Coordinate System Proposal Footprint and Horizontal Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 o Ecological Constraints (Southern Section) Figure 2

Level 15, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 T 61 2 9239 7100 F 61 2 9239 7199 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au G:\21\21291\GIS\Maps\MXD\21_21291_Z023_Bargo_service_area_Ecological_Constraints_Figure 2_Site Location__Ecological_Constraints_Southern Section.mxd © 2010. While GHD has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA, COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOLGE EARTH PRO make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA , COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOLGE EARTH PRO cannot accept liability of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred as a result of the product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data Source: NSW Department of Lands: Cadastre - Jan 2011; Geoscience Australia: 250k Data - Jan 2011. Created by:cwilson

2. Legislative context

2.1 NSW legislation

2.1.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) The EP&A Act forms the legal and policy platform for proposal assessment and approval in NSW and aims to, amongst other things, ‘encourage the proper management, proposal and conservation of natural and artificial resources’. All development in NSW is assessed in accordance with the provisions of the EP&A Act and EP&A Regulation 2000. The proposal, as an activity that does not require consent, is to be determined under Part 5 of the Act and Sydney Water is the ‘determining authority’ for the purposes of the Act. Under Section 111(1) of the Act, determining authorities must ‘examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of that activity’. This report addresses the ecological components of the environment to assist Sydney Water with addressing Section 111 of the Act. In addition, Section 111(4) of the Act states that the determining authority must consider the effect of an activity on: x ‘critical habitat’ (as defined under the TSC Act and FM Act) x species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats (as listed under the TSC Act and FM Act) and whether there is likely to be a ‘significant effect’ on those species, populations or ecological communities. x other protected fauna or protected native plants listed under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

Section 5A of the EP&A Act lists seven factors that must be taken into account in the determination of the significance of potential impacts of a proposed activity on threatened species, populations or ecological communities (or their habitats) listed under the TSC Act and the FM Act. The ‘7-part test’ is used to assist in the determination of whether a proposal is ‘likely’ to impose a significant effect on threatened biota and thus whether a species impact statement (SIS) is required. Section 5A of the EP&A Act was addressed as part of the current assessment and 7-part tests were completed for relevant threatened species and ecological communities that are likely to be affected by the proposal.

2.1.2 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) provides legal status for biota of conservation significance in NSW. The Act aims to amongst other things, ‘conserve biological diversity and promote ecologically sustainable proposals’. It provides for:

 the listing of ‘threatened species, populations and ecological communities’, with endangered species, populations and communities listed under Schedule 1, ‘critically endangered’ species and communities listed under Schedule 1A, vulnerable species and communities listed under Schedule 2

 the listing of ‘Key Threatening Processes’ (under Schedule 3)

 the preparation and implementation of Recovery Plans and Threat Abatement Plans

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 requirements or otherwise for the preparation of Species Impact Statement (SIS). The TSC Act has been addressed in the current assessment through:

 desktop review to determine the threatened species, populations or ecological communities that have been previously recorded within the locality of the site and hence could occur subject to the habitats present

 targeted field surveys for threatened species listed under the Act

 identification, assessment and mapping of TECs listed under the Act that have the potential to be directly affected by the proposal

 identification of suitable impact mitigation and environmental management measures for threatened species, where required

 assessment of potential impacts on threatened species.

2.1.3 Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) The FM Act contains schedules that list endangered, critically endangered and vulnerable aquatic species, populations, ecological communities, and key threatening processes of relevance to aquatic environments. Potential impacts on any threatened biota listed under the FM Act must be addressed through 7 part tests in accordance with Section 5Aa of the EP&A Act. If a significant impact is likely, a SIS must be completed and a licence obtained pursuant to Part 7a of the FM Act. The proposal is considered unlikely to impact on any threatened biota listed under the FM Act (see Appendix B). The FM Act has been addressed in the current assessment through undertaking:

 a desktop review to determine the threatened species, populations or ecological communities that have been previously recorded within the locality of the site and hence could occur subject to the habitats present

 assessment of aquatic habitats during terrestrial field surveys

 assessment of impacts on aquatic habitats.

2.1.4 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) The NW Act provides for the declaration of noxious weeds by the Minister for Primary Industries. Noxious weeds may be considered noxious on a National, State, Regional or Local scale. All private landowners, occupiers, public authorities and Councils are required to control noxious weeds on their land under Part 3 Division 1 of the NW Act. As such, if present, noxious weeds should be assessed and controlled. There are two noxious weed species present in the proposal footprint (see Section 4.2.3).

2.2 State Environmental Planning Policies

2.2.1 SEPP 44 Koala Habitat Protection State Environmental Planning Policy 44 Koala Habitat Protection (SEPP 44) aims to encourage the ‘proper conservation and management of areas of natural vegetation that provide habitat for Koalas to ensure a permanent free-living population over their present range and reverse the current trend of Koala population decline’.

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Schedule 1 of SEPP 44 lists the local government areas to which SEPP 44 applies. The study area is within the Wollondilly LGA which is listed under Schedule 1. Although Sydney Water does not require Council consent, the provisions of SEPP 44 would be considered within the REF. SEPP 44 requires that before granting consent for development on land over 1 hectare in area, a consent authority must be satisfied as to whether or not the land is ‘potential’ and ‘core’ koala habitat. Potential koala habitat is defined as ‘an area of native vegetation where the trees of the types listed in Schedule 2 constitute at least 15% of the total number of trees in the upper or lower strata of the tree component’. Core koala habitat, is defined as ‘an area of land with a resident breeding population of koalas, evidenced by attributes such as breeding females and recent sightings and historical records of a population’. Where core koala habitat is found to occur, SEPP 44 requires that a site-specific Koala Plan of Management (KPoM) be prepared, unless a LGA-based KPoM exists. The study area is Potential but not Core Koala habitat as defined under the SEPP as discussed in Section 4.4.1. The proposal is not anticipated to have an adverse impact on the Koala or its habitats.

2.3 Commonwealth legislation

2.3.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) The purpose of the Commonwealth EPBC Act is to ensure that actions likely to cause a significant impact on ‘matters of national environmental significance’ undergo an assessment and approval process. Under the EPBC Act, an action includes a proposal, undertaking, proposal or activity. An action that ‘has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on a matter of national environmental significance’ is deemed to be a ‘controlled action’ and may not be undertaken without prior approval from the Australian Government Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Populations and Communities (the ‘Minister’). The EPBC Act identifies matters of national environmental significance (MNES) as:

 World heritage properties

 National heritage places

 Wetlands of international importance (Ramsar wetlands)

 Threatened species and ecological communities

 Migratory species

 Commonwealth marine areas

 The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

 Nuclear actions (including uranium mining). The EPBC Act has been addressed in the current assessment through:

 desktop review to determine the threatened species or ecological communities that have been previously recorded within the locality of the site and hence could occur, subject to the habitats present

 targeted field surveys for species and ecological communities listed under the Act

 identification of suitable impact mitigation and environmental management measures for threatened species, where required

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 assessment of potential impacts on MNES.

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3. Methods

3.1 Desktop assessment Constraints assessment reports for the Bargo Wastewater Scheme were reviewed as part of this assessment to identify threatened biota recorded during surveys and key environmental issues which have the potential to constrain or delay the proposal. These included:

 GHD (2012) Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Constraints Assessment.

 CH2MHILL (2012b) Desktop Review; Bargo Wastewater Scheme. Reference: 433990 A desktop assessment was undertaken to identify threatened flora and fauna species, populations and ecological communities listed under the TSC Act and FM Act, and MNES listed under the EPBC Act that may be affected by the proposal. Database records pertaining to the study area and locality (i.e. within a 10 km radius of the proposal footprint) were reviewed and included:

 NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) Wildlife Atlas database (licensed) for records of threatened species and endangered ecological communities listed under the TSC Act that have been recorded in the locality (OEH 2012; data supplied by OEH on 28 September 2012).

 Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) Protected Matters Online Search Tool for MNES listed under the EPBC Act and predicted to occur in the locality (DSEWPaC 2012; database queried on 28 September 2012).

 Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Threatened Species Records Viewer (DPI 2012; database queried 28 September 2012) for threatened species listed under the FM Act and recorded within the Sydney Metropolitan catchment.

 OEH threatened species profiles online database (OEH 2012b).

 DSEWPAC online species profiles and threats database (DSEWPC 2012).

 Broad-scale vegetation mapping of south-east NSW to identify threatened ecological communities mapped as occurring within the locality of the site (Tozer et al 2010, SSC 2012). Following collation of database records and species and community profiles, a ‘likelihood of occurrence’ assessment was prepared with reference to the broad habitats contained within the study area. This was further refined following field surveys and assessment of habitat present. The results of this assessment are presented in Appendix B. A likelihood of occurrence ranking was attributed to threatened biota and migratory species based on the framework outlined in Table 1. Results of this assessment are included in Appendix B.

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Table 1 Key to likelihood of occurrence for threatened biota

Likelihood of occurrence Definition

Known Species recorded within the proposal footprint either from previous records or field survey results.

Likely Species previously recorded within a 10km radius and suitable habitat occurs within the proposal footprint.

Possible Species previously recorded within 10km radius but no suitable habitat recorded, or species not previously recorded within a 10km radius, but the proposal footprint is located within species known distribution and suitable habitat occurs within the proposal footprint.

Unlikely Species not previously recorded within a 10km radius and suitable habitat not recorded within the proposal footprint.

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3.2 Field surveys

3.2.1 Survey methods Surveys were undertaken by two ecologists within the proposal footprint and study area as summarised in Table 2 and shown on Figure 1 and 2. The purpose of the field survey was to identify the location of potential ecological constraints. Constraints were identified as:

 remnant native vegetation consistent with any TEC listed under either the TSC or EPBC Acts

 remnant (non-threatened) native vegetation

 fauna habitat resources, including: – habitat trees (such as hollow-bearing trees) – foraging resources (e.g. mature eucalypts or other food trees) – wetland areas – rock outcrops. Area searches were conducted at representative locations within the broader study area in order to collect sufficient information to identify the type, condition and conservation significance of native vegetation. Comprehensive vegetation surveys and mapping were not undertaken as vegetation identified as being of conservation significance can be avoided provided the recommended mitigation measures are followed (as outlined in Section 6). A field ecologist systematically traversed the proposal footprint on foot searching for threatened plants and noting: dominant plant species and relative cover abundance; vegetation type, structure and condition; diagnostic features for threatened ecological communities; and degree of weed infestation and other evidence of human disturbance. Data was recorded on pro-forma field sheets. Flora species which could not be identified in the field were sampled and identified in the office using standard field guides. The proposal footprint was also systematically searched for fauna habitat resources such as hollow- bearing trees, rock outcrops and woody debris. Opportunistic observations of fauna species were also recorded. Species were identified by sight, by call or by observation of scats, tracks or other traces.

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3.2.2 Survey effort Table 2 summarises the ecological survey effort.

Table 2 Survey effort

Study area Date Survey effort

Irrigation area 29 March 2012 two ecologists for a total of eight person hours

Bargo subsidised service area 19 June 2012 two ecologists for a total of 15 and proposed transfer main person hours

Revised transfer main and 19 September 2012 two ecologists for a total of 10 proposed WWPS area person hours

3.2.3 Survey considerations Given the limited survey effort, it is likely that some species that occur in the study area either permanently, seasonally or transiently were not detected during the survey. These species may include annual, ephemeral or cryptic flora species; nocturnal fauna; birds and frogs which call at other times of year; and mobile or transient fauna in general. The habitat assessment conducted allows for identification of habitat resources for such species, in order to make an assessment of their likelihood of occurring within the study area. As such, the survey was not designed to detect all species, rather to provide an overall assessment of the ecological values within the proposal footprint. This information was used to predict potential impacts of the proposal on ecological values and to develop a design to specifically avoid impacts on threatened ecological communities and known and potential habitat for threatened species where practicable. Given the low conservation value of the majority of the proposal footprint and the scope to avoid impacts on features of higher value, this survey effort is considered appropriate. There are small areas that have higher ecological value due to the presence of threatened biota that have been sampled and described in detail. The proposal would be modified to avoid or minimise impacts on identified features of high conservation significance, such as threatened plants, in these areas. Proposal infrastructure, such as access roads, the gravity feed main or transfer main would be re-routed through adjoining areas of cleared land or underbored.

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4. Existing environment

4.1 Landscape context Bargo is a low density residential village. The Bargo subsidised service area within the proposal footprint consists of cleared agricultural land, road verges and carriageways containing asphalt and concrete hardstand, mown exotic grasses, occasional planted native and exotic street trees and small patches of opportunistic native understorey plants and environmental weeds. There are occasional patches of native vegetation and remnant, mature native trees within the subsidised service area and adjoining intact native vegetation nearby to the subsidised service area; however, the proposal footprint has been specifically designed to avoid intact stands of native vegetation, and mitigate disturbance (refer to Section 6). The proposal involves directional drilling beneath the intact native vegetation within the northern extent of the Great Southern Road and within the Remembrance Driveway road reserve. It would also involve directional drilling to enable the transfer main to be installed between Great Southern Road and Remembrance Driveway, to the east of Hambridge Road. The entry and exit points for the directional drilling and associated access roads would be located outside of intact native vegetation within the road reserves.

4.2 Flora

4.2.1 Flora species As described above, the survey was not designed to detect all plant species present in the study area, rather to provide an overall assessment of the ecological values within the proposal footprint. Fifty-one species of flora from 26 families were recorded within the proposal footprint, comprising 32 native and 19 exotic species. The Poaceae (grasses, 13 species; 6 native, 7 exotic), Myrtaceae (trees or shrubs, 6 species), Proteaceae (4 species; all native) and Asteraceae (daisies, 3 species; all exotic) were the most diverse families recorded. The diversity of species present in the study area is likely to be considerably greater than this list. There are also likely to be additional species present in the proposal footprint because comprehensive vegetation surveys were not performed at all stages of the survey. The proposal footprint is unlikely to contain any threatened plant species because the survey effort included targeted searches at the appropriate time of year for threatened plants which are known or likely to occur in the study area. One threatened plant was recorded within the proposal footprint in vegetation immediately adjoining the irrigation area: Bargo Geebung (Persoonia bargoensis) which is listed as an endangered species under the TSC Act and a vulnerable species under the EPBC Act. Three individuals of this species were observed in vegetation between the fence line along the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and in the Remembrance Driveway road reserve, as shown on Figure 3. The three Persoonia bargoensis points shown on Figure 3 are only accurate to within approximately 10 metres, because of cloudy weather during the field survey and the limitations of hand held GPS devices. This area of occupied habitat for Persoonia bargoensis has been mapped as a ‘high’ ecological constraint on Figure 1 to assist Sydney Water to avoid any impacts during construction. One individual was also opportunistically observed, outside of the study area, north of the proposed directional drilling site at the northern end of the Great

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Southern Road. This plant is located on the eastern side of the rail line. There is no risk of impacts on this plant arising from the proposal (Figure 3, inset 1). Two additional threatened plant species were recorded opportunistically outside the study area as shown on Figure 3:

 Small-flower Grevillea (Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act. A total of 20 individuals were observed on the edge of a drain on the eastern side of Silica Road as shown on Figure 4. These plants occur in a small patch of regenerating native vegetation within disturbed, cleared land that appears to be periodically slashed to maintain access along a bike path that runs parallel to Silica Road. At least ten individuals were also observed along the fire trail to the east of Great Southern Road. These plants occurred within heath vegetation adjoining the fire trail. No Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora were recorded within the study area or proposal footprint.

 Mittagong Geebung (Persoonia glaucescens) which is listed as endangered under the TSC Act and vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Two individuals were observed north of the bore location on the eastern side of the rail line at the northern end of the Great Southern Road (Figure 3, inset 1). No Persoonia glaucescens were recorded within the study area or proposal footprint. There are records (OEH 2012a) for a number of additional threatened plants within the study area as shown on Figures 3 and 4. The majority of these threatened plants are in remnant native vegetation to the west and north of the subsidised service area. There is one record of Persoonia bargoensis in the immediate vicinity of the proposed transfer main along Railway Avenue as shown on Figure 3. This plant was not located during the site survey, nor is there any suitable habitat in intact native understorey vegetation at this location. The plant in question and associated native vegetation may have been removed from this location. Alternatively the point location may be not be accurate at the fine scale of Figure 3 and 4 as is often the case for NSW Wildlife Atlas (OEH, 2012a) data (pers. obs.). The full list of flora species recorded is presented in Appendix A. Species recorded are discussed below in relation to the vegetation communities occurring within the proposal footprint. Noxious weeds recorded in the study area are discussed in Section 4.2.3..

4.2.2 Vegetation communities There are three native vegetation communities, derived exotic grassland and extensive areas of disturbed cleared land within the study area. These vegetation communities are summarised in Table 1. Intact native vegetation directly intersected by the proposal footprint is mapped in Figures 3 and 4. The vegetation communities included in Table 1 were described by ground truthing regional vegetation mapping (Tozer, 2010) based on general observations of vegetation structure and dominant species. There is one threatened ecological community (TEC) within the proposal footprint: Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (SSTF) which is listed as an endangered ecological community (EEC) under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act. SSTF occurs as patches within the irrigation area and around the margins of the Bargo subsidised service area. The indicative transfer main route plotted on Figures 3 and 4 also intersects an area of this EEC within the bore location adjacent to the Great Southern Road. The structure and condition of this vegetation community varies within the proposal footprint.

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Within the irrigation area, the understorey and mid-storey are absent. There is a moderate cover of canopy trees such as Red Mahogany (Eucalyptus resinifera) and Grey Gum (Eucalytpus punctata).

The SSTF vegetation within the bore location comprises modified vegetation with sparse canopy layer of E. punctata and a partially slashed understorey but high native species richness and regeneration and slight weed infestation. There is a patchy small tree layer of Black Wattle (Acacia decurrens) and Hickory Wattle (Acacia implexa) interspersed with Tick Bush (Kunzea ambigua) and Cherry Ballart (Exocarpos cupressiformis).The groundcover comprises native shrubs such as Wiry Panic (Entolasia stricta) and exotic weeds including African Lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula) and Stinkgrass (Eragrostis cilianensis). There is scope to restrict the bore location, adjoining transfer main sections and associated construction activities to existing clearings associated with an easement and access trail. Potential impacts on SSTF are discussed in Section 5.2.1 and the approach to avoiding or mitigating these impacts is discussed in Section 6. River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains is listed as an EEC under the TSC Act and occurs within the study area as small patches adjoining drainage lines through the centre of the Bargo subsidised service area. The indicative transfer main route plotted on Figures 1 and 2 does not intersect any areas of this EEC. There is opportunity to place the proposed transfer main in disturbed, cleared land adjoining suburban streets and to avoid impacts on these EECs. The location of vegetation communities recorded in the study area is described in Table 3.

Table 3 Vegetation communities recorded in the study area

Map Unit (Tozer, 2010) NSW Vegetation Status Location Type (DECCW, 2012)

Cumberland Shale / Narrow-leaved Shale/Sandstone Remnant vegetation within Sandstone Transition Ironbark - Broad- Transition Forest and directly adjoining the Forest leaved Ironbark - Grey EEC – TSC Act subsidised service area, Gum open forest of the including the irrigation area, Shale/Sandstone edges of the the bore location at the Transition Forest Cumberland Plain, northern end of the Great EEC – EPBC Act Sydney Basin Southern Road, the western side of Elvy Street between Thorncroft Close and Kader Street, the southern portion of Tylers Road, the northern side of Marshall Avenue and the southern end of Avon Dam Road.

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Map Unit (Tozer, 2010) NSW Vegetation Status Location Type (DECCW, 2012)

Cumberland River Flat Forest Red Gum - River-Flat Remnant vegetation directly Forest Rough-barked Apple Eucalypt Forest adjoining the subsidised grassy woodland on on Coastal service area, including in alluvial flats of the Floodplains EEC the vicinity of Kadar Street Cumberland Plain, – TSC Act and Paperbark Place. Sydney Basin

Sydney Hinterland Red Bloodwood - Grey Native Within the WRP footprint. Transition Woodland Gum woodland on the Remnant vegetation in the edges of the vicinity of the subsidised Cumberland Plain, service area. Sydney Basin

Exotic Grassland n/a Exotic Road verges, agricultural land and disturbed open space throughout the study area.

4.2.3 Noxious and environmental weeds The proposal footprint contains at least two species declared as noxious weeds in the Wollondilly Local Government Area (LGA), as shown in Table 4 below. These noxious species occurred in generally moderate numbers throughout the study area. There is a localised infestation of Blackberry (Rubus fruiticosus aggregate) and Bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) interspersed amongst the SSTF vegetation, and surrounding cleared exotic grasses at the proposed bore locations along Great Southern Road.

Table 4 Declared noxious weeds of the Wollondilly LGA recorded during the field survey

Scientific Name Common Name Control category Control Notes

Asparagus Bridal creeper 4 The plant must not be sold asparagoides propagated or knowingly distributed. The growth of the plant must be Rubus fruiticosus Blackberry 4 managed in a manner that reduces aggregate its numbers spread and incidence and continuously inhibits its reproduction and the plant must not be sold propagated or knowingly distributed. This is an All of NSW declaration

These noxious weeds are interspersed with severe infestations of environmental weeds throughout the study area. The exotic grasses Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), African Love Grass (Eragrostis curvula),

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Paddy’s Lucerne (Sida rhombifolia) are abundant in the road reserve adjoining the subsidised service area and proposed transfer main. There is also localised severe infestation with Kikuyu Grass (Pennisetum clandestinum), Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare), Subterranean Clover (Trifolium subterraneum) and Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) within the proposed WWPS area.

The proposal would include measures to minimise the spread of these noxious and environmental weeds during construction as discussed in Section 6.2.1.

4.3 Fauna

4.3.1 Fauna species Forty-two native fauna species were recorded during the site visits. A larger range of native fauna would be expected to occur within the locality, particularly in areas of intact native vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint. Fauna recorded included one frog species, one mammal species and 17 bird species. A full list of species recorded is provided in Appendix A. The majority of the fauna species recorded were birds. Most of these were generalist species typical of urban and agricultural environments; however vegetation surrounding the proposal footprint provides habitat for a greater diversity of birds, including forest and woodland dependant species. Species observed included:

 open country species typical of agricultural environments, including the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) and Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae)

 generalist species commonly observed in semi-urban areas and suburban gardens, including the Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala) and Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus).

 woodland and forest species such as the Eastern Spinebill (Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris), Shining Bronze Cuckoo (Chalcites lucidus), Yellow-faced Honeyeater (Lichenostomus chrysops), Yellow- tufted Honeyeater (Lichenostomus melanops), Grey Shrike-thrush (Colluricincla harmonica), Red Wattlebird (Anthochaera carunculata) and Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike (Coracina novaehollandiae). Common Eastern Froglets (Crinia signifera) were heard calling within a dam adjacent to the eastern section of the WWPS area, and within the drainage line intersecting the proposed bore locations along Great Southern Road. Unidentified wallaby sp. scats were observed within the intact vegetation intersecting the proposed bore locations.

4.3.2 Fauna habitats Four broad fauna habitat types were recorded within the broader study area:

 disturbed land and cleared areas

 exotic grassland

 native woodland and forest

 drainage line and wetland habitat. The suitability of these habitats for native fauna is discussed below, with particular emphasis on habitat resources of relevance to threatened fauna.

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Disturbed land and cleared areas The broader study area is a suburban environment dominated by residential housing, agricultural land and road reserves. These areas are typically mown lawns with planted street trees or shrubs, including some remnant or planted eucalypts, Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) and bottlebrushes (Callistemon spp.). These patches would provide some nesting and foraging habitat for a range of opportunistic and resilient native fauna, such as the observed Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) and Noisy Miners. The high numbers of these opportunistic and aggressive birds observed in the broader study area would likely limit the resource value of street trees for other, smaller native species. However, there is the potential for threatened species such as the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) and Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) to forage among planted and remnant eucalypts on occasion.

Exotic grassland There are patches of exotic grassland in the proposed WWPS and compound area and in cleared road shoulders in other portions of the broader study area. Exotic and native grass species in these areas may provide foraging habitat for native macropods, rodents or birds, but would be unlikely to be important for the persistence of local populations of any native fauna species. There are patches of more structurally complex exotic flora, such as Lantana camara and Ligustrum spp. (Privet), in the WWPS and compound area which would provide shelter and contribute to vegetated links, allowing movement of fauna through the landscape and connecting patches of higher quality habitat.

Native vegetation There are some small patches of remnant vegetation in the western portion of the Bargo subsidised service area. Native vegetation in the study area is, in general, degraded by edge effects caused by the presence of residential areas and roads. Clearing, weed infestation, domestic and pest fauna, traffic, light and noise would all reduce the value of habitat resources in the study area to varying degrees. Native woodland and forest in the study area would provide habitat resources for a range of native fauna, including threatened species. Specific habitat resources for threatened fauna observed in the study area include: y Myrtaceous trees and shrubs which may provide nectar resources for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, Little Lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla) or Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor ) or seed for the Gang-gang Cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatus) y Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata), which is a preferred feed tree for the Koala y Intact, mature native vegetation and associated habitat resources such as hollow bearing trees. Eucalyptus and other mature trees provide foraging habitat for a wide variety of bird species including cuckoos, honeyeaters, thornbills, gerygones, whistlers, fantails, bowerbirds and figbirds. A range of threatened birds could forage on occasion in this community in the study area, including species such as Varied Sittella (Daphoenositta chrysoptera), although these species are more likely to occur in larger, continuous patches elsewhere in the locality. This woodland community may provide occasional foraging habitat for the threatened Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) which forages on Myrtaceous trees in coastal forests during winter months, although as with other species, is more likely to forage in larger stands of this feed tree elsewhere in the locality. The irrigation area contains a number of hollow-bearing trees, including up to eight mature trees and stags that may contain hollows and that are within the footprint for the WRP. Hollows in the study area ranged in size from small to large, and could provide nesting habitat for a range of birds, arboreal

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mammals and microbats. Hollow-bearing trees in the proposal footprint are all isolated trees outside of patches of intact native vegetation. Threatened owls and cockatoos may forage in the study area on occasion, but are more likely to breed in hollow-bearing trees that are located in larger, continuous patches of vegetation elsewhere in the locality. Arboreal mammals are also less likely to use relatively isolated hollow-bearing trees. Microbats are likely to forage within and above vegetation and along roads and over agricultural land in the study area. Hollow-roosting microbats, including threatened micro bats such as the Eastern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) may shelter or breed in hollow-bearing trees in the study area, including those trees that would be removed in the WRP footprint. There is no breeding habitat for cave-breeding bats such as the Eastern Bentwing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) in the study area. Native vegetation in the subsidised service area is part of an extensive patch associated with Bargo River, and provides connectivity to the west to Nattai National Park and to the east to the catchment surrounding the upper Nepean lakes. This intact native vegetation is generally in good condition and contains a wide range of habitat resources, including: foraging resources associated with nectar, seed and fruit bearing native plants; a variety of tree age and size classes, including hollow-bearing trees and stags; and structurally diverse vegetation, including patches of dense understorey. The presence of these tracts of vegetation increases the potential for threatened fauna to occur transiently within native vegetation in the study area.

Wetland and Aquatic Habitat There is a small drainage line and associated good quality aquatic habitat to the east of the railway line adjacent to the proposed bore location at the northern end of Great Southern Road (see Figure 3). It contains some in-stream and fringing vegetation and provides habitat for native aquatic and wetland fauna, including the Common Eastern Froglet (Crinia signifera) which was heard calling in the vicinity. Fish fry of an unidentified species were also observed. Intermittent pools along this drainage line may provide breeding habitat for threatened frogs with the potential to occur in the locality including Red- crowned Toadlets (Pseudophryne australis) and Giant Burrowing Frogs (Helioporus australasicus). The water source may provide potential drinking or foraging habitat for a number of native birds, frogs and mammals. Macropod scats were observed nearby the drainage line. The proposal would avoid the drainage line and associated aquatic habitat via directional drilling and utilising adjacent infrastructure and cleared areas. There are two drainage lines downstream to the north and northeast of the irrigation area that contain native riparian vegetation and aquatic habitat (BMT WBM, 2012b). Catchment 1 is immediately downstream to the north of the irrigation area and contains intact SSTF. It flows northwards to the Bargo River. The drainage line is poorly defined and comprises a series of small, shallow pools separated by areas of dam sedgeland and surrounded by moist riparian scrub (BMT WBM, 2012b). The intact and diverse vegetation and variable substrate provide diverse and valuable habitat for aquatic and terrestrial species (BMT WBM, 2012b). Catchment 2 lies downstream to the northeast of the irrigation area and passes through intact and partially cleared SSTF on large residential blocks before passing beneath Remembrance Driveway and the railway line through an area of extensive sandstone woodland and scrub. It drains to Teatree Hollow. The drainage line is a narrow (<1 m wide) shallow drainage that, at the time of surveys, contained of a series of shallow disconnected pools but during flow events is likely to form a shallow run (BMT WBM,

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2012b). Banks were undercut in places, which together with woody debris and trailing roots and vegetation, supports a range of aquatic micro-habitat types (BMT WBM, 2012b). There also are a number of farm dams and flooded depressions within the study area that would provide habitat for some native species of wetland birds and frogs. Masked Lapwings (Vanellus miles) were observed within the dam located at the eastern side of the WWPS. In general, the dams and depressions are too small, lightly vegetated and disturbed by livestock to comprise habitat for any threatened birds or frogs and would not be important habitat for migratory birds.

19 21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment kj ^_kj

^_ ^_^_

Map Inset A

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A B

Remembrance Driveway

Map Inset B

Scot Street Hambridge Road Ironbark Road Thorncroft Close

Wattle Street

JustineHudson Close Place

GreatSouthern Road

Elvy Street Cambalan Street Windsor Place

Hawthorne Road

Phillipa Place Mimosa Street Laura Close Dymond Road

Biara Street Hambridge Road Kadar Street Jack Davis Place Panorama StreetRailside Avenue

Radnor Road

Kader Street

Berrico Place LEGEND OEH (2012) Threatened Biota Threatened Biota and Habitat Resources (GHD Survey) Study Area ^_ Persoonia bargoensis Bargo Road *# Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest (EEC) NoongahDams Street Hawthorne Road ^_ Persoonia bargoensis Threatened Ecological Communities kj Persoonia glaucescens Drainage Line subsp. Persoonia glaucescens kj Grevillea parviflora parviflora nm Bingarra Place WARNING: OEH (2012) Threatened Biota data is intended for use by Sydney Water, and is not to be Paperbark Placepublished at this scale. Nooral Street 1:14,000 (at A4) Sydney Water Job Number 21-21291 050 100 200 300 400 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Revision 0 Date 15 Jan 2013 Metres Threatened Biota and Geographic Coordinate System Horizontal Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 o Habitat Features (Northern Section) Figure 3 G:\21\21291\GIS\Maps\MXD\21_21291_Z024_Bargo_service_area_Ecological_Constraints_Figure 3_Constraints_TS_Habitat_Features.mxd Level 15, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 T 61 2 9239 7100 F 61 2 9239 7199 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2010. While GHD has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA, COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA , COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO cannot accept liability of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred as a result of the product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data Source: NSW Department of Lands: Cadastre - Jan 2011; Geoscience Australia: 250k Data - Jan 2011. Created by:qjchung Scot Street Hambridge Road Ironbark Road Thorncroft Close

Wattle Street

Justine Close

Cambalan Street Windsor Place

Elvy Street

Hawthorne Road

Dymond Road Biara Street Radnor Road

Hambridge Road Kader Street Railside Avenue

Bargo Road Noongah Street

Bingarra Place Johnstone Road Paperbark Place Nooral Street Tylers Road Tylers Road

Hawthorne Road

Avon Dam Road Hawthorne Road Remembrance Driveway

Tylers Road

Marshall Avenue Avon Dam Road

Reservoir Road

Avon Dam Road ·2010Google LEGEND OEH (2012) Threatened Biota Threatened Biota and Habitat Resources (GHD survey) Study Area *# Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora Threatened Ecological Communities Persoonia bargoensis kj Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora ^_ WARNING: OEH (2012) Threatened Biota data is nm Persoonia glaucescens intended for use by Sydney Water, and is not to be published at this scale.

1:12,500 (at A4) Sydney Water Job Number 21-21291 050 100 200 300 400 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Revision 0 Date 15 Jan 2013 Metres Geographic Coordinate System Threatened Biota and Horizontal Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994 o Habitat Features (Southern Section) Figure 4

Level 15, 133 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 T 61 2 9239 7100 F 61 2 9239 7199 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au G:\21\21291\GIS\Maps\MXD\21_21291_Z025_Bargo_service_area_Ecological_Constraints_Figure 4_TS_Habitat Features.mxd © 2010. While GHD has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA, COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. GHD and NSW DEPARTMENT OF LANDS, GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA , COPYRIGHT NAVIGATE NAVTEQ AND PSMA AUSTRALIA, GOOGLE EARTH PRO cannot accept liability of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred as a result of the product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data Source: NSW Department of Lands: Cadastre - Jan 2011; Geoscience Australia: 250k Data - Jan 2011. Created by:qjchung

4.4 Conservation significance The desktop assessment highlighted the following threatened biota and MNES listed under the TSC, FM and/or EPBC Acts which have been previously recorded or are predicted to occur within the locality of the proposal footprint (see Appendix A):

 eleven threatened ecological communities (9 listed under the TSC Act, 5 listed under the EPBC Act)

 24 threatened flora species (23 listed under the TSC Act, 21 listed under the EPBC Act)

 51 threatened fauna species (46 listed under the TSC Act, 3 listed under the FM Act, 23 listed under the EPBC Act)

 15 migratory species (listed under the EPBC Act only)

 The Greater Blue Mountains Area (listed as a World Heritage Property and National Heritage Place under the EPBC Act). No other MNES (Wetlands of International Significance (Ramsar sites) or Commonwealth Marine Areas) were indicated as occurring within the locality. Appendix B includes a summary of the habitat requirements of these threatened biota and an assessment of whether they are likely to occur in the study area, based on the habitats present. Based on the results of the site survey the majority of these threatened biota can be excluded from occurring within the study area or being affected by the proposal. Of the threatened biota known or predicted to occur within the locality, 13 threatened flora and 37 threatened fauna were considered to have the potential to occur within the study area at least on occasion, based on the habitats present. The majority of these threatened biota would be likely to occur in areas of native vegetation only, particularly the native vegetation to the west of the subsidised service area (see Appendix A). There are no important habitat resources for migratory species. The proposal footprint is within the same catchment as the Greater Blue Mountains Area but is separated from it by greater than 60 kilometres of both native vegetation and disturbed cleared land. Standard environmental management measures would limit impacts from the proposal disturbance and there is no risk of significant impacts to the Greater Blue Mountains Area.

4.4.1 Threatened biota (TSC Act and FM Act) The database searches identified 23 threatened flora species and 46 threatened fauna species listed under the TSC Act as having been previously recorded or predicted to occur in the locality (see Appendix B). Nine TECs listed under the TSC Act have been mapped in the locality (Tozer et al. 2010).

No threatened biota listed under the FM Act has been previously recorded or are predicted to occur in the locality (see Appendix B).

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Threatened ecological communities There are two TECs recorded within the study area:

 Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, which is listed as an EEC under the TSC Act and under the EPBC Act.

 River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains which is listed as an EEC under the TSC Act. Cumberland Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest occurs as patches around the margins of the Bargo subsidised service area, within the proposed bore location at the northern end of the Great Southern Road and within the irrigation area (as shown in Figure 3). River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains occurs as small patches adjoining drainage lines through the centre of the Bargo subsidised service area. The extent of this EEC has not been precisely mapped in the study area because the proposal footprint does not intersect any areas of this community. A further seven TECs are known to occur in the locality of the study area. These communities are associated with habitat types and geomorphic settings that are not present in the study area and are therefore unlikely to occur.

Threatened flora species One threatened flora species was recorded in the proposal footprint during field surveys. The Bargo Geebung (Persoonia bargoensis) is listed as an endangered species under the TSC Act and vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Three Persoonia bargoensis were observed in vegetation immediately between the fence line along the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and Remembrance Driveway, as shown on Figure 3. An additional two threatened flora species were recorded in vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint:

 Small-flower Grevillea (Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act.

 Mittagong Geebung (Persoonia glaucescens) which is listed as endangered under the TSC Act and vulnerable under the EPBC Act Two Persoonia glaucescens were observed in native vegetation north of the northernmost directional drill location between the Great Southern Road, and Remembrance Driveway, as shown in Figure 3, inset A. These plants occurred within woodland vegetation adjoining the rail corridor. Around ten individuals of Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora were observed on the edge of a fire trail on the eastern side of the proposed drill locations as shown on Figure 3, inset B. These plants occur in a small patch of degraded SSTF within the transmission line easement. This species was also observed along the fire trail, east of the bore location, outside of the study area. The proposal may remove some potential habitat for these species though the proposal would be located in modified land at the edge of vegetated patches that would have little value for local populations of these three threatened flora species. The suite of threatened flora potentially relevant to this assessment is presented in Appendix B, along with the nature of any previous records in the locality and an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence in the proposal footprint.

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Threatened fauna species No threatened fauna species were recorded in the study area during field surveys. Forty-two threatened fauna species were predicted to occur in the study area (39 TSC Act, three FM Act). Of these, 14 species of threatened fauna may be excluded from occurring in the study area based on their known distribution and/or habitat requirements. A total of 28 species were judged to have the potential to occur within the study area on an occasional or opportunistic basis at least (see Appendix B). Most of these species would be likely to occur within extensive areas of native vegetation within Bargo State Conservation Area and the intact native vegetation adjoining the study area rather than relying on the limited habitat resources within the proposal footprint. Based on the presence of known populations in the locality and the presence of suitable habitat four of these species have the potential to occur as local populations within the proposal footprint:

 Southern Myotis (Myotis macropus) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Eastern False Pipistrelle (Falsistrellus tasmaniensis) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Greater Broad-nosed Bat (Scoteanax rueppellii) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Eastern Freetail Bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act. The remaining 24 fauna species may occur in the study area on a transitory or occasional basis but would not occur as local populations within the proposal footprint and would not be affected by the proposal. For instance the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) may forage on eucalypts within the proposal footprint, as well as on other flowering species such as species of Melalueca and Banksia. The proposal footprint includes six mature, livingtrees that are potential foraging habitat for the Grey-headed Flying-fox. These trees are surrounded by cleared agricultural land and would have little value for the local population of the Grey-headed Flying-fox or any other mobile threatened fauna (if present). The requirements of SEPP 44 have been applied to the consideration of Koala habitat in the study area. The study area contains Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) and Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), which are listed under Schedule 2 of the SEPP as primary feed trees .These two primary feed tree species constitute at least 15% of the total number of trees in the upper or lower strata of the tree component of vegetation in the study area and so the study area is ‘Potential Koala habitat’. Therefore a consideration of whether the proposal would affect ‘Core Koala habitat’ is required. Core Koala habitat, is defined as ‘an area of land with a resident breeding population of Koalas, evidenced by attributes such as breeding females and recent sightings and historical records of a population’. According to database searches, there are 82 Koala records within the Bargo locality (OEH 2012a) however these are concentrated in extensive patches of intact native vegetation away from the study area. Koala feed trees within the study area are surrounded by cleared agricultural land and would have little value for the local population of the Koala (if present). The study area would not support a resident breeding population of Koalas and does not comprise core Koala habitat as defined in SEPP 44. The proposal is not anticipated to have an adverse impact on the Koala or its habitats. A range of threatened birds could forage or fly over on occasion in the study area, including species such as the Varied Sittella and Swift Parrot although these species are more likely to occur in larger,

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continuous patches elsewhere in the locality. As discussed in Section 4, the proposal footprint is highly modified and potential impacts on the small patches of remnant vegetation can be minimised by implementing the mitigation measures outlined in Section 6. Therefore threatened birds and other mobile threatened fauna species are not considered subject species for the purposes of this assessment.

4.4.2 EPBC Act MNES The database searches identified five threatened ecological communities, 21 threatened flora species, 23 threatened fauna species and 15 migratory species listed under the EPBC Act as potentially occurring in the locality (see Appendix B). One National Heritage Places and World Heritage property were also identified as occurring within the locality; however these are not within the proximity of the Bargo study area and are therefore unlikely to be impacted upon by the proposal. No Commonwealth Marine Areas or Wetlands of International Significance were identified within the locality.

Threatened ecological communities One TEC, Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest (SSTF), listed as endangered under the EPBC Act (and endangered under the TSC Act) was recorded within the bore location and irrigation area and was assessed against the criteria listed under the final determinations for this community (see Appendix D). Impacts on this community are discussed in Section 5, and the Assessment of Significance is provided in Appendix E. No other threatened ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act occur within the proposal footprint.

Threatened flora A total of three Persoonia bargoensis were recorded within the proposal footprint near the eastern edge of the irrigation area. As described above, the proposal would be modified to avoid direct impacts on these plants by utilising the existing access track and/or adjoining areas of cleared agricultural land to construct the transfer main and access track to the WRP. Underboring may also be used. Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora and Persoonia glaucescens were recorded adjacent to the proposal footprint as discussed above. The proposal is not likely to directly or indirectly result in impacts on these species. No other threatened flora species listed under the EPBC Act were recorded within the proposal footprint. As discussed in Section 4.4.1, no threatened flora species would be likely to occur within the highly modified habitats within the proposal footprint.

Threatened fauna Two threatened fauna species listed under the Act have been previously recorded or are predicted to occur in the locality as identified by the EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool: the Koala ; and Grey- headed Flying Fox. No fauna species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act were recorded in the proposal footprint or have been recorded on the study area during previous investigations (GHD 2012a). The Grey-headed Flying-fox may forage on eucalypts within the proposal footprint, as well as on other flowering species. Similarly, the Koala may also forage among planted and remnant eucalypts on occasion. Moderate densities of mature Grey Gum (Eucaltypus punctata) and Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), which are preferred food trees for the Koala, were observed in the study area.

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The proposal would remove six mature, living trees that are potential foraging habitat for the Koala and the Grey-headed Flying-fox. These trees are surrounded by cleared agricultural land and would have little value for the local population of the Koala (if present). There is better quality habitat available in the broader study area and wider locality. Given existing land uses in the proposal footprint, construction activities would not affect either species use of adjoining areas of habitat. No other threatened biota listed under the EPBC Act or their habitats are likely to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposal. As such, no additional Assessments of Significance under the EP&A Act have been prepared. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any threatened biota.

Migratory fauna Three marine bird species, four wetland birds (two of which are also listed as marine species) and eight ‘terrestrial’ bird species were identified by the EPBC Online Protected Matters Search Tool results (DSEWPaC 2012a; Appendix B). The proposal footprint would have little value for any of these migratory species, as it comprises highly modified residential and cleared areas. As for threatened fauna, migratory fauna species occurring within Bargo State Conservation Area and extensive intact native vegetation on the eastern side of the proposal footprint, would be unlikely to utilise habitats within the proposal footprint given the highly modified nature of these habitats and their position next to busy arterial roads and train lines. As vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint is in good condition with connectivity to extensive areas of good quality native vegetation, it is likely that other terrestrial migratory species would occur in these habitats. Other seasonally migratory or nomadic species such as raptors (eagles and kites) would be likely to utilise foraging habitats at the locality. The EPBC Act lists migratory species listed under international agreements, as well as families of birds (such as ducks and eagles and hawks) that are also known to be migratory but are not listed under international agreements. Other seasonally migratory or nomadic species would also be likely to utilise habitats within the intact vegetation and conservation areas on occasion.

Other MNES The following MNES were identified in the Protected Matters Search:

 the Greater Blue Mountains Area World Heritage Area

 the Greater Blue Mountains National Heritage Property. The proposal would be unlikely to have any effect on the Greater Blue Mountains Area identified by the desktop review, given the physical separation between this MNES and the study area. The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is over 60km north of the study area and separated from it by the expanse of native intact vegetation and multiple major roads, train lines and water bodies. The Greater Blue Mountains Area is unlikely to be impacted by the proposal and is not considered further.

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5. Potential impacts

5.1 Measures to avoid direct impacts The proposal has been developed with consideration of identified ecological constraints and includes specific design features to reduce impacts on areas with conservation significance, including TECs and habitat resources for threatened fauna (shown in Table 5). Ecological constraints identified in the broader study area were classified into four constraint classes based on the conservation significance of the vegetation or habitat resource, and the potential for it to be avoided by construction activities. Areas of High constraint have been mapped around the proposed bore location which directly intersects SSTF and around individuals of the threatened plant species, Persoonia bargoensis, which immediately adjoins the irrigation area (as shown in Figure 3). Scattered patches of SSTF are present in the proposed irrigation area. There is the potential for indirect impacts on these patches of SSTF and so they have been mapped as a Medium constraint. A summary of all constraints identified and recommended mitigation measures is outlined in the Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Constraints Assessment (GHD 2012). Ecological constraints are shown on Figures 1 and Figure 2. The majority of constraints identified within the proposal footprint would be avoided by:

 directional drilling beneath a small portion of native vegetation in the northern portions of the transfer main, intersecting the train line and Great Southern Road to reduce impacts on SSTF and associated habitat resources for threatened biota

 trenching in hardstand areas; in the road shoulders where available or in the carriageway to avoid impacts on native vegetation and individual mature trees. Trenching in the carriageway may be required in some sections because the road shoulder is very narrow use of existing clearings, degraded and modified areas by construction vehicles and maintenance crews to mitigate direct effects on areas of native vegetation or fauna habitat resources (e.g. habitat trees and aquatic habitats). Use of existing clearings and modified areas for directional drilling launch and exit points for bore locations.

 use of the existing access track and cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area to construct the transfer main and access road to the WRP in order to avoid impacts on threatened plants.

 detailed design of the access road to the WRP and the grassed swales within the irrigation area to ensure that no trees are removed

 Placement of temporary construction areas in disturbed, cleared land as far as is practicable.

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Table 5 Identified constraint classes Constraint class Portion of proposal footprint Description Very low Subsidised service area and No constraints identified. transfer main Highly modified/cleared areas, typically dominated by exotic grasses or turf. Some planted street trees or shrubs. Irrigation area No constraints identified. Highly modified/cleared areas, dominated by exotic grasses or turf. Some planted exotic trees or remnant native trees that have limited habitat value. Low Subsidised service area and Remnant or planted mature native trees on transfer main one side of the road that provide foraging resources for native fauna. Consideration would be given to avoiding these resources wherever possible within design constraints. In all cases, it would be possible to avoid these trees by constructing infrastructure on the opposite side of the road. Irrigation area Widely spaced remnant mature native trees within an area of cleared land with mainly exotic groundcover. When revising the layout of assets within the irrigation area consideration would be given to avoiding individual trees wherever possible within design constraints. Medium Subsidised service area and Habitat trees and/or intact native transfer main vegetation on one side of road with habitat value for threatened biota. Impacts on native vegetation and/or hollow-bearing trees would be avoided. In all cases, it would be possible to avoid these trees by constructing infrastructure on the opposite side of the road or within the carriageway. Medium Irrigation area Closely spaced mature native trees within an area of partially cleared land with a mix of exotic and native groundcover species. These areas have habitat value for threatened biota and some areas comprise a modified form of an EEC. However, some native understorey vegetation would be affected. When identifying a preferred irrigation area, consideration should be given to avoiding these areas within design constraints.

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Constraint class Portion of proposal footprint Description High Northern portion of transfer main Habitat trees, EEC vegetation on both and bore locations sides of road with known/possible habitat for threatened biota. Any construction outside existing cleared areas would impact on EEC vegetation and/or habitat trees. Construction would be restricted to existing clearings and/or alternative routes or construction methods would be considered Irrigation area No go areas along the eastern boundary of the proposal footprint. Occupied threatened plant habitat in intact native vegetation.

A summary of recommended mitigation measures is included in Section 6.

5.2 Direct impacts during Construction

5.2.1 Removal of vegetation and habitat resources As a result of the design modifications to avoid areas of ecological value outlined in Section 5.1, the actual proposal footprint comprises mostly cleared agricultural land or residential areas with very little native vegetation. The proposal would involve unavoidable impacts on a small area of SSTF at the underboring location at the northern end of Great Southern Road and the removal of up to eight trees for the construction of the WRP. It would also remove some individual native understorey plants within the proposal footprint and aquatic habitat associated with farm dams. The unavoidable direct impacts of the proposal are described below.

Subsidised service area and transfer main Direct impacts within the subsidised service area and along the transfer main alignment would include the following:

 Removal of predominantly exotic vegetation and soil disturbance for construction of a trench and installation of pipes in road verges through the Bargo subsidised service area. In areas of higher conservation significance, for example where mature, hollow-bearing trees or intact native vegetation is present, trenching would be undertaken on the opposite side of the road or in the carriageway to avoid impacts on these biodiversity values.

 Directional drilling in the northern portions of the transfer main underneath intact native vegetation, including the removal of 0.01 hectares of partially cleared and modified SSTF for the construction of launch and exit points. This would remove predominantly exotic vegetation along with some individual native understorey plants and soil disturbance at the launch and exit points for the boring, which would be located in areas of partially cleared and modified native vegetation. There are a number of habitat trees, including hollow-bearing trees, within the subsidised service area and transfer main. The proposal would be refined to avoid impacts on these trees.

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Installation of the underboring launch point at the northern end of the Great Southern Road would involve the temporary removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF including a moderately diverse range of non-threatened native plants. The proposal footprint at this location contains characteristic SSTF grassy understorey, including Entolasia spp. and Eragrostis spp. along with noxious and environmental weed species. The area of SSTF that would be removed is around 0.001% of the estimated area of that vegetation community in the locality (around 1152.39 hectares, based on Tozer (2010) vegetation mapping), including extensive areas of older growth vegetation within adjoining intact vegetation and nearby Bargo State Conservation Area. The removal of this native vegetation is considered a very minor reduction in the extent of SSTF in the local area and would not threaten the persistence of local populations of any of the component species within the EEC. Once the proposal has been constructed the ground surface would be reinstated and revegetated with native understorey species and would provide an equivalent environment to the current situation. In this context, the proposal would not have an adverse effect on fauna movement or habitat connectivity. Flora populations would persist within adjoining areas of alternative habitat beyond the study area. Reproduction within local native plant populations is unlikely to be adversely affected in the long term by small scale removal of (and damage to) individual plants. The area of native vegetation to be cleared or temporarily disturbed for the proposal contributes to available habitat resources, including understorey vegetation and associated foraging substrates and resources (fruits, nectar, seed etc.), and potential roosting and refuge for a range of native fauna species. Clearing of this small area of habitat may result in the displacement or mortality of some individuals of smaller less mobile common species (e.g. small skinks) but is unlikely to adversely affect the persistence of local populations of any species. More mobile native fauna such as native birds, bats and terrestrial and arboreal mammals are likely to move out of the construction area and are unlikely to be adversely affected by construction activities. The native vegetation to be removed or modified comprises a small area of potential habitat for the threatened plant species’ Persoonia bargoensis, P. glaucescens and Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora. The proposal will not remove any known individuals of these plants located within the study area and indirect impacts on these plants are not anticipated given that their locations have been marked in previous GHD surveys and they can be avoided (see Figure 3). There are three P. bargoensis individuals within the proposal footprint near the eastern edge of the irrigation area however there the proposal footprint would be modified to avoid impacts on these plants by utilising the existing access track and/or cleared agricultural land to construct the transfer main and access track to the WRP. The remainder of the proposal footprint is disturbed, cleared land containing exotic pasture species or environmental weeds. Construction would involve the removal of predominantly exotic vegetation and soil disturbance in these areas (see Figure 1). These areas contain little native vegetation cover and have limited habitat value for native plants. Any vegetation clearing required in these areas would remove a small number of individuals of non-threatened native plants and noxious and environmental weeds. In areas of higher conservation significance, for example where mature trees are present, trenching would be undertaken on the opposite side of the road to avoid impacts on biodiversity values. Provided the weed management measures proposed in Section 6.2.2 are adopted, the proposal may result in positive impacts on retained native vegetation by improving the management of exotic vegetation in the study area. This would remove a source of weed propagules that are currently threatening adjoining areas of intact native vegetation.

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WWPS The installation of the 50m2 WWPS would involve the removal of predominantly exotic vegetation with some individual native plants and soil disturbance (as shown in Figure 3). This area is cleared agricultural land and would not directly affect areas of SSTF or other areas of intact native vegetation. Identified mature trees on the western boundary of the WWPS area can be avoided. Construction of the WWPS would result in a minor loss of shelter and foraging resources for opportunistic fauna because this portion of the proposal footprint contains only heavily grazed exotic grassland. There is a risk of fauna injury or mortality during construction. As stated above only common and opportunistic fauna species would be likely to occupy the modified habitats within the pumping station footprint. The proposal would be unlikely to harm an ecologically significant proportion of the local population of any of these species. Mitigation measures would be applied to minimise the potential for any adverse direct and indirect impacts on native biota in surrounding habitats in the broader study area as described in Section 6.

Irrigation area The indicative extent of vegetation clearing and habitat removal for construction within the irrigation area is shown in Figure 1. This includes the footprints for the WRP, access road and land application area and would comprise:

 The permanent removal of up to eight mature Eucalyptus trees for the construction of the WRP including six living trees and two stags.

 The removal of predominantly exotic vegetation with some individual native understorey plants and soil disturbance for the construction of the land application area. The access road, grass swales and other assets would be located in existing clearings outside of the intact native vegetation and would not require trees to be removed.

 Draining and some earthworks at the dams within the irrigation area to convert them to on-site detention ponds. After the construction period the on-site detention ponds would have habitat value roughly equivalent to the current situation. Approximately 3.75 hectares of scattered patches of modified SSTF and 4.4 hectares of modified native vegetation within the irrigation area would not be directly affected. The potential for operational impacts within the irrigation area and downstream environments are discussed further in Section 5.4.3. Mitigation measures would be applied to minimise the potential for any adverse indirect impacts on native biota in surrounding habitats in the broader study area as described in Section 6.

5.2.2 Habitat fragmentation The proposal traverses predominantly cleared or otherwise disturbed and/or modified land and so construction of the proposal would not directly isolate or fragment any areas of habitat. The majority of the proposal footprint is hardstand or short, structurally simple, exotic vegetation that would have very little value as fauna movement habitat. Fauna movement, pollination and seed fall of plants and other ecological processes would occur around, rather than through, the proposal footprint. The exotic vegetation that would be removed in the proposal footprint would not comprise important shelter or movement habitat for native fauna.

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A small area of SSTF vegetation and adjoining native vegetation is directly intersected by the proposal footprint (refer to Figure 1, inset 1). This native vegetation is continuous with a network of vegetation links and corridors in several reserves and crown lands (including conservation areas). This vegetation therefore provides a vegetated link for native fauna, allowing them movement and habitat opportunities throughout the broader landscape. The proposal footprint is located on the edge of this patch of habitat and would not result in fragmentation of the stand of native vegetation or impose a barrier to fauna movements in the locality. The existing railway line immediately adjoins the proposed bore location at the northern end of the Great Southern Road and would already comprise an existing small gap separating patches of habitat. Directional drilling is proposed to conduct the transfer main and has been placed in a highly modified patch of SSTF, with no canopy cover and degraded, weedy understory, to avoid clearing of intact vegetation and fragmentation of the existing corridor. The proposed bore locations would not involve construction of structures that would obstruct movement of fauna attempting to cross residential or agricultural land in the proposal footprint. There are some small patches of remnant SSTF within the irrigation area. This SSTF is already modified and fragmented by agricultural clearing and would be avoided where practicable. These remnant patches would provide shelter and facilitate movement via stepping stone corridors for native fauna. Construction of the WRP and WWPS would require permanent removal of understorey vegetation and up to eight mature trees. Native fauna would readily traverse the gap in habitat created by the WRP and WWPS with a minimal increase in the risk or energy costs of travelling between patches of suitable habitat. Once the remainder of the proposal has been constructed, the ground surface and vegetation of the proposal footprint would be reinstated and would provide an equivalent environment to the current situation. In this context, the proposal would not have an adverse effect on fauna movement or habitat connectivity due to the very small area to be affected by the proposal, and the large patch of habitat present in the locality.

5.2.3 Fauna injury and mortality Construction of the WRP would involve the removal of eight mature trees that may support arboreal fauna and potentially tree-roosting birds or microbats. There is a risk of direct injury or mortality of these tree-dwelling fauna during construction. In order to minimise the potential impacts of the proposal on tree-dwelling fauna, fauna management measures such as pre-clearing surveys and rescue and salvage of resident fauna would be implemented during construction (refer to Section 6.2.3). These mitigation measures would reduce direct impacts on fauna as far as is practicable. Given the small number of trees to be removed, their context as isolated paddock trees and the quantity of alternative roost sites in the locality the potential injury or mortality of some individuals would be unlikely to have a significant effect on any local populations of fauna. As described above, the remainder of the proposal footprint provides limited habitat resources for native fauna species and would only contain foraging and shelter resources for opportunistic native fauna. Construction may result in the injury or mortality of small terrestrial fauna that may be sheltering in vegetation within the proposal footprint, such as the opportunistic frogs and reptiles described above. These species could also fall into the trench if left open. These species are widespread and abundant and so the potential injury or mortality of individuals within a relatively small area of habitat is highly unlikely to affect an ecologically significant proportion of any local populations. More mobile native fauna such as native birds, bats and terrestrial and arboreal mammals are highly unlikely to be affected by construction.

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Construction may result in a minor increase in the volume of traffic. This would have a negligible effect on the risk of vehicle collisions with native fauna given the existing volume of traffic on Remembrance Driveway and because the proposal footprint does not intersect any fauna movement corridors.

5.3 Indirect impacts during construction

5.3.1 Soil and water pollution Construction would require excavation of soils to install the proposal infrastructure. The proposal has the potential to result in additional base flow, sedimentation, pollution, contaminated runoff and/or erosion within the proposal footprint and adjoining areas through soil disturbance and construction activities and through the proposed irrigation. Potential sources of soil and water pollution include:

 soil disturbance during excavation and construction works

 inappropriate management of soil and material stockpiles

 hydrocarbon leaks or spills from vehicles or equipment used in construction

 increased sediment transfer and erosion potential in areas cleared of vegetation. Mitigation measures to reduce the potential for pollution arising from construction activities are described in Section 6, and include minimising the disturbance area, construction staging, erosion and sediment control devices and rehabilitation or landscaping of disturbed areas. The proposal footprint is not located on steep or flood prone land or adjacent to any sensitive receiving environments such as major waterways or wetlands. In this context, the proposed mitigation measures are likely to prevent any adverse impacts on soil or water arising from construction activities. Mitigation measures would also be implemented for the SSTF and adjoining native vegetation that may be adversely affected by indirect impacts within the irrigation area. The potential for impacts on SSTF is considered to be minimal through the implementation of the safeguards and management measures outlined in Section 6. BMT WBM (2012a) recommended that a system be developed to divert up-slope surface and subsurface run-on around the irrigation zone and collect down-slope subsurface run-on. Sydney Water would achieve these water management outcomes by constructing grassed swales around the proposed land application area and modifying existing farm dams for use as on-site detention ponds. The grassed swales would mitigate against impacts of increased surface water flows and transport of sediments from the land application area as well as the transport of weeds or pathogens off site. Wetland and aquatic habitat There are four farm dams within the proposed irrigation area, and one outside the WWPS boundary that would have some habitat value for native wetland and aquatic fauna. These dams are earth-lined, with little fringing vegetation and no aquatic flora, and would be of limited value to native aquatic fauna. Such dams are common throughout the landscape and are unlikely to be important for the conservation of any native fauna species in the locality. These aquatic habitats are already modified by agricultural clearing and would be avoided by constructing in the cleared exotic grassland areas. They would be drained and modified for use as on-site detention ponds which would temporarily remove aquatic habitat. Once they are functioning as on-site detention ponds they would have aquatic habitat value equivalent to the current situation.

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There are sensitive receptors for indirect impacts on aquatic habitats in the study area; including a small modified drainage line and associated aquatic habitat adjacent to the railway line adjoining the proposed bore location (see Figure 1). Potential impacts that could cause the decline in aquatic habitat value include reduced water quality through hydrocarbon contamination or through increased nutrient or sediment inputs. The potential for hydrocarbon contamination or increased nutrient or sediment inputs can be avoided or minimised through the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures as outlined in Section 6.

5.3.1 Noise pollution The study area is characterised by a mix of residential, commercial, special uses and public recreation areas. Noise in the area is typical of an urban environment with background noise primarily generated from traffic along Great Southern Road, Remembrance Driveway and trains along the train line. Habitats adjacent to the proposal footprint therefore already experience noise and vibration disturbance. The proposal would result in a temporary increase in noise as a result of construction works, including the movement of construction vehicles and use of construction equipment such as small excavators. Noise emissions during construction would be intermittent associated with the operation of equipment and machinery and limited to the duration of the construction period.

5.3.2 Weed invasion and edge effects ‘Edge effects’ refers to increased noise and light or erosion and sedimentation at the interface of intact vegetation and cleared areas. Edge effects may result in impacts such as changes to vegetation type and structure, increased growth of exotic plants, increased predation of native fauna or avoidance of habitat by native fauna. Edge effects would result from construction activities and then continue to affect vegetation and habitats adjoining the proposal footprint during operation of the proposal. Weed invasion and edge effects are already present in the study area.. The potential for the proposal to exacerbate existing edge effects and weed invasion is limited given the existing levels of disturbance and that clearing of native vegetation is to be minimised as the design is refined. The pipeline route through the subsidised service area adjoins cleared, hardstand areas. The WWPS, WRP and land application area are located in cleared agricultural land and contain only isolated paddock trees. There is the potential for minor, additional impacts on native vegetation in the study area through transmission of weed propagules on vehicles or equipment and through disturbance of vegetation and surface soil, which may provide increased opportunities for weed recruitment. To avoid direct and indirect impacts on native vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint during construction activities, weed invasion would be managed in accordance with vegetation management procedures specified in Section 6.2 . Given these mitigation measures and the extent of existing weed infestation and disturbance in the proposal footprint, the proposal is unlikely to result in further weed infestation or other edge effects.

5.3.3 Introduction of pests and pathogens The proposal does not involve the transport of any plants or animals or any other activities that are likely to directly contribute to the introduction of pest species.

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Construction activities have the potential to introduce or spread pathogens such as Phytophthora (Phytophthora cinnamomi), Myrtle Rust (Uredo rangelii) and Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) in the broader study area through vegetation disturbance and increased visitation. There is little available information about the distribution of these pathogens within the locality, and no evidence of these pathogens was observed during surveys. Phytophthora and Myrtle Rust may result in the dieback or modification of native vegetation and damage to fauna habitats. Chytrid fungus affects both tadpoles and adult frogs and can wipe out entire populations once introduced into an area. The potential for impacts associated with these pathogens is low, given the disturbed nature and high visitation rates to the broader study area, and lack of intact native vegetation and habitats within the proposal footprint. As a precautionary measure a ‘clean on entry, clean on exit’ policy would be implemented during construction to prevent the introduction or spread of these pathogens.

5.4 Operational impacts

5.4.1 Subsidised service area The majority of the proposal within the subsidised service area would involve underground services that would be located in an area that is already developed and includes similar infrastructure. The pipelines would require periodic maintenance involving associated vehicle traffic and potential excavation to access the pipelines. Given the existing modified nature of the proposal footprint and in the context of other day to day activities occurring in Bargo, these activities would have a negligible impact on biota. A surface water assessment for the proposal has not been completed and the precise type and configuration of engineered drainage works has not been defined. It is assumed that surface water management measures incorporated in the proposal design would not result in adverse effects on riparian and floodplain geomorphology or catchment hydrology. The hydrology of the proposal footprint is already substantially modified and the proposal would result in a minor increase in the proportion of hardstand surfaces. The drainage line near the railway line at the northern end of the Great Southern Road is piped in its upper reaches and features modified stream morphology in its lower reaches. It is assumed that any additional structural works required for the proposal would be restricted to the disturbed portions of the drainage line. Given the extent of existing modifications to the local catchment, the proposal would comprise a negligible change to hydrology and would be highly unlikely to adversely affect any aquatic habitats.

5.4.2 WWPS The WWPS is expected to have a footprint of approximately 50 m2 and would be located within cleared agricultural land, adjacent to a busy road. Habitats adjacent to the proposal footprint therefore already experience noise, light and vibration disturbance. Given the low quality of habitat in the WWPS footrint, proposed mitigation measures, and the extensive areas of reserved habitat in the locality, the construction of the WWPS is unlikely to significantly affect any native biota.

5.4.3 Irrigation area Vegetation within the irrigation area would be periodically harvested to remove nutrients from the system. This area is currently grazed and slashed or harvested on occasion. The proposed future land use is

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similar to the current situation. Habitat resources available within the irrigation area would be similar to the current situation. There would be periods immediately after harvesting when this area contains less shelter and foraging resources but this would be offset by increased growth between harvest periods and the removal of grazing. There is a risk of fauna injury or mortality during harvesting. As stated above, only common and opportunistic fauna species would be likely to occupy the modified habitats within the irrigation area. The proposal would be highly unlikely to harm an ecologically significant proportion of the local population of any of these species. Sub-surface irrigation with treated effluent may, in general, lead to nutrient enrichment of soils and groundwater. This nutrient enrichment may in turn cause contamination of downstream environments, especially aquatic habitats. Effluent would be treated and stored before being pumped to the irrigation area. Measures would be implemented to reduce slime growth and biofilms on irrigation pipes and emitters that may have an impact on soil and water quality. The irrigation scheme would be designed such that planted crops take up the majority of additional water and nutrients and issues associated with increased nutrient loading is expected to be negligible. A land capability assessment (LCA) of the proposed irrigation area was undertaken by BMT WBM (2012a) to estimate the performance of the proposed irrigation system and identify any potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health. The focus of the modelling was to assess the long-term dynamics of water (including treated wastewater) and dissolved solutes (particularly nitrogen and phosphorus). Based on the outcomes of this assessment the proposal is considered a feasible, safe and sustainable effluent management option (BMT WBM, 2012a). Therefore, the proposed irrigation is unlikely to threaten the persistence of SSTF, or threatened species or their habitats in the study area or in receiving environments downstream. Construction and application of treated effluent within the irrigation area would cause a change in groundcover species composition and diversity. It is not anticipated that this would be a significant effect on populations of any native species as the ground cover and shrub layer within the irrigation area has already been highly modified as a result of clearing, burning and blade ploughing. The proposed irrigation is likely to result in some additional base flow within the receiving waterways but would not result in any major permanent pooling or significant alteration to the physical or chemical characteristics of the water (BMT WBM, 2012b). Additional base flow would occur as a relatively constant seepage given that effluent application would be evenly distributed each day and permanent to long-term submergence of vegetation is not expected based on outcomes of modelling (BMT WBM, 2012b). The waterways in the study area are dominated by flora taxa tolerant of periodic inundation and are likely to tolerate the predicted increase in flow. It is not anticipated that the increase in base flow would significantly alter chemical or physical characteristics of the water to an extent that would alter current habitat conditions and cause changes in species diversity and abundance (including weed species) and alterations to life history and fauna behaviour (BMT WBM, 2012b). Performance validation monitoring of the irrigation area has been proposed for the initial period of operation to support the lack of wet weather storage and enable adaptive management as required (BMT WBM, 2012a). BMT WBM (2012a) recommended that a system be developed for diversion of up-slope surface and subsurface run-on around the irrigation zone and collection of down-slope subsurface run- on. Sydney Water would achieve these water management outcomes through construction of grassed

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swales around the proposed land application area and modifying existing farm dams to enable use as on-site detention ponds. There would be a minor increase in noise and light pollution associated with the operation of the WRP. The study area includes background noise generated from traffic along Remembrance Driveway and trains along the train line. Habitats adjacent to the proposal footprint therefore already experience noise and vibration disturbance. There is a buffer of cleared agricultural land between the WRP footprint and native vegetation. In this context, noise and light pollution associated with the operation of the WRP is unlikely to adversely affect local populations of any fauna species.

5.5 Cumulative impacts The majority of the proposal footprint falls within land which is extensively modified as it is located within existing road reserves, disturbed land and urban development. It contains very little native vegetation, minimal habitat resources for native fauna and has negligible value as a movement corridor. As stated in Section 5.1, the proposal footprint has been specifically designed to avoid clearing where practicable and otherwise reduce impacts on native vegetation and habitat features. After construction in the subsidised service area and along the transfer main, the soil surface and understorey vegetation would be reinstated to an environment equivalent to the current situation. Mitigation measures are proposed to ameliorate the potential for cumulative impacts and are included as Section 6. Notably pre-construction treatment of weed infestations, vegetation and fauna management during construction and post- construction monitoring of native vegetation and treatment of weeds are proposed to mitigate against additional degradation of intact native vegetation. The proposal would result in a minor increase in the degree of habitat fragmentation. The proposed WRP and WWPS footrprints would not result in a significant cumulative increase in impacts to the surrounding intact native vegetation given development would be restricted to cleared agricultural land. Cumulative impacts arising from the proposal are unlikely to cross any critical threshold for impacts that would have a significant adverse effect on local populations of any native biota.

5.6 Key Threatening Processes A key threatening process (KTP) is defined in the TSC Act as an action, activity or proposal that:

 adversely affects two or more threatened species, populations or ecological communities

 could cause species, populations or ecological communities that are not currently threatened to become threatened. There are currently 36 KTPs listed under the TSC Act (DEC 2005), seven listed under the FM Act (DPI 2011b) and 19 under the EPBC Act (DSEWPaC 2011b). A number of KTPs are listed under more than one Act. Those KTPs potentially relevant to this proposal are discussed in Table 6 below. The proposal is highly unlikely to exacerbate any of the KTPs. Mitigation measures to limit the impacts of KTPs of relevance are discussed in Section 6.

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Table 6 Key threatening processes

KTP Status Comment Clearing of native vegetation has occurred historically within Clearing of native TSC Act; and around the study area. The proposal would result in the vegetation EPBC Act clearing of 0.01 hectares of modified SSTF (EEC) within the proposal footprint. The vegetation is in moderate condition due to weed infestation and other edge effects. The clearing of this vegetation would comprise a minor increase in the operation of this KTP and is not likely to significantly affect any threatened biota. The CEMP would include measures to minimise impacts on native vegetation. Clearing of hollow- TSC Act There are up to eight hollow-bearing trees in the footprint for bearing trees the proposed WRP. These hollow-bearing trees are all isolated paddock trees and would have less value for local fauna populations than hollow-bearing trees located in intact native vegetation. There are extensive areas of intact native vegetation in conservation areas throughout the locality including areas adjoining the proposal footprint. The proposal would comprise a minor increase in the operation of this KTP.

Removal of dead wood TSC Act There are two standing dead trees in the footprint for the and dead trees proposed WRP. There is no woody debris of any note within the proposal footprint. The proposal would comprise a minor increase in the operation of this KTP.

Invasion of plant TSC Act The proposal footprint features moderate to severe communities by infestation with perennial exotic grasses. Adjoining areas of perennial exotic grasses native vegetation also feature localised moderate infestation. There is the potential for perennial exotic grasses to further invade native vegetation through disturbance during construction of the proposal. Mitigation measures are likely to effectively limit the operation of this KTP.

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KTP Status Comment It is assumed that surface water management measures Alteration to the natural TSC Act; FM incorporated in the proposal design would be implemented flow regimes of rivers Act to ensure that the proposal would not result in adverse and streams and their effects on the floodplain geomorphology or catchment floodplains and hydrology. The impeded drainage line (adjacent to the wetlands railway line and the north extent of the irrigation area) and dams within the irrigation area are already substantially modified by surrounding suburban development. The WWPS would not be located in close proximity to a creek or watercourse. The proposal is unlikely to increase the operation of this KTP. The proposed irrigation is likely to result in some additional base flow within the receiving waterways but would not result in any major permanent pooling or significant alteration to the physical or chemical characteristics of the water (BMT WBM, 2012b). Additional base flow would occur as a relatively constant seepage given that effluent application would be evenly distributed each day and permanent to long-term submergence of vegetation is not expected based on outcomes of modelling (BMT WBM, 2012b). This would not comprise a significant increase in the operation of this KTP.

Infection of native plants TSC Act; Construction activities have the potential to introduce the by Phytophthora EPBC Act root-rot fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi into the broader cinnamomi study area, which could lead to dieback of vegetation. Mitigation measures are likely to effectively limit the operation of this KTP.

Introduction and TSC Act Construction activities have the potential to introduce Myrtle establishment of Exotic Rust to the study area. Mitigation measures are likely to Rust Fungi of the order effectively limit the operation of this KTP. Pucciniales pathogenic on plants of the family Myrtaceae

Infection of frogs by TSC Act; Construction activities have the potential to introduce amphibian chytrid EPBC Act amphibian chytrid to the broader study area, which could causing the disease lead to death of local frogs. Mitigation measures are likely to chytridiomycosis effectively limit the operation of this KTP.

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6. Mitigation measures

The mitigation of adverse effects arising from the proposal has been presented according to the hierarchy of avoidance, mitigation and offsetting of impacts. The following sections detail the avoidance of impacts, mitigation measures and offset contributions recommended for the proposal.

6.1 Avoidance of impacts As described in Section 5.1, a constraints assessment was undertaken and the proposal was modified to avoid impacts on areas with high conservation value. Specific mitigation measures are proposed to minimise the potential for adverse and residual impacts on areas of vegetation and fauna habitats adjoining or downslope of disturbance areas as discussed below.

6.2 Mitigation of impacts The proposal would result in some unavoidable residual adverse impacts imposed upon some elements of the natural environment, including removal of small areas of native vegetation or individual native plants and trees and the imposition of edge effects on adjoining areas of native vegetation. Specific mitigation measures are to be detailed in a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to reduce the potential for adverse impacts on retained vegetation. The CEMP would include measures to minimise potential impacts on flora and fauna.

6.2.1 Construction and environmental management Mitigation measures would be implemented during construction to avoid direct and indirect impacts resulting from the proposal on native vegetation and habitats, particularly SSTF, fauna and aquatic habitat. The CEMP for the proposal would include the following measures:

 erosion and sediment control measures would be established prior to construction

 erosion and sediment control measures would be regularly inspected, particularly following rainfall events, to ensure their ongoing functionality. Progressively stabilising disturbed areas and trenches backfilled as soon as practicable to minimise potential for erosion and sedimentation impacts.

 no-go zones would be applied during construction to prevent access by construction personnel to habitat adjoining the construction footprint. No-go zones would include SSTF adjoining the irrigation area swales, Persoonia bargoensis habitat to the east of the irrigation area and SSTF adjacent to the proposed bore locations. Temporary barriers would be erected around the perimeter of construction areas in these locations. The barriers would be erected prior to construction activities commencing and would be maintained for the duration of construction works.

 applying water to stockpiles during windy conditions.

 covering open trenches (e.g. with boards) at the completion of construction each day to minimise the risk of injury or mortality to animals as a result of falling into the excavated trench.

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 checking trenches each morning, prior to the commencement of construction, to salvage any fauna that have fallen in, and move them to a safe (and appropriate) nearby location. Protocols would be developed to deal with the removal of injured or dangerous animals (e.g. snakes).

 Upon completion of works, all disturbed areas would be suitably restored as near as possible to their existing condition.

6.2.2 Vegetation management The proposal footprint adjoins intact native vegetation and habitats with high conservation value and would be managed in accordance with Sydney Water’s environmental policies. The following measures would be included in the CEMP to mitigate impacts on native vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint as far as is practicable:

 Pre-construction management measures for noxious and environmental weeds would be implemented to reduce the risk of the spread of weed propagules during clearing and other construction activities. Treatment of weeds would commence prior to construction to reduce the biomass of weeds and weed propagules on site when construction commences. This would occur within the entry and exit points for the proposed directional drilling and within the proposed transfer main, to minimise impacts on adjoining intact vegetation. Weed management would not be required within the majority of the subsidised service area because the proposal footprint is dominated by mown grass on managed road verges.

 Pre-clearing surveys for Persoonia bargoensis would be undertaken, where works would be undertaken adjoining the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and other areas of native vegetation mapped as medium and high constraint class within the proposal footprint. The pre-clearing surveys would focus on re-locating and clearly marking the three individual Persoonia bargoensis near the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and any other threatened plants to ensure that construction activities avoid direct impacts to threatened plants. Access into adjacent remnant native vegetation, particularly SSTF, would be restricted during construction by appropriate marking of the proposal footprint on design drawings and management plans and delineation of work areas with flagging tape or fencing as required.

 Construction plant and equipment required to work in areas of native vegetation mapped as medium and high constraint class would be washed prior to being delivered to the study area to commence work on the proposal to prevent the potential spread of Phytopthora (Phytophthora cinnamomi) and Myrtle Rust (Pucciniales fungi). Refer to the national best practice guidelines for Phytophthora (DEH 2006) and the Myrtle Rust factsheet (DPI 2011c) for hygiene control.

 Stockpiles of construction materials, fill or vegetation would be restricted to existing cleared areas and not within areas of adjoining native vegetation.

 Control measures would be incorporated in the design of the proposal to limit the spread of weed propagules downstream of proposal footprint. Sediment control devices, such as silt fences, would assist in reducing the potential for spreading weeds.

 SSTF in the area disturbed by underboring would be revegetated with understorey species consistent with the continued use of the proposal footprint as a pipeline easement. Revegetated areas would, in the longer term, reduce the degree of edge effects, provide habitat resources for native biota and reduce the degree of weed infestation in the locality. Revegetation would include spreading of clean, loamy sand topsoil and supplementary planting with understorey species

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representative of adjoining intact native vegetation and appropriate to the final landform of the site. Species from the SSTF would be used in revegetation with reference to the dominant species and by matching plantings to adjoining areas of intact vegetation.

 During operation, Sydney Water would monitor the irrigation site in accordance with a monitoring framework that would be developed prior to commissioning the proposal. The monitoring framework would be established to validate the modelling work undertaken by BMT WBM and verify the impacts predicted by BMT WBM (2012a). If the proposal exceeds the impacts predicted by BMT WBM (2012a), then consideration be given to monitoring SSTF adjoining the irrigation area to identify potential adverse impacts from irrigation activities.

6.2.3 Fauna management The proposal would impact native vegetation comprising potential habitat for threatened fauna, including loss of habitat trees. In order to minimise the potential impacts of the proposal on biodiversity, the following mitigation measures would be implemented during construction to minimise impacts on fauna where practicable:

 Pre-clearing surveys, rescue and salvage of fauna would be undertaken, where works would be undertaken within the proposed WRP and other portions of the proposal footprint that contain trees or other fauna refuge. y Clearing of mature and habitat trees would be minimised where possible. Any habitat trees to be felled should be marked prior to clearing of vegetation. The removal of habitat trees is to be undertaken in accordance with a hollow-bearing tree removal management protocol set out in the CEMP, and would involve the presence of a qualified ecologist or wildlife expert experienced in the rescue of fauna during clearing activities.

 Protocols to prevent introduction or spread of chytrid fungus would be implemented following OEH Hygiene protocol for the control of disease in frogs (DECCW, 2008c).

 Ensuring that lighting at the WRP and bore location is directed away from intact vegetation to avoid disturbance of potentially occupied habitat trees.

6.2.4 Operational environmental management Operational activities will be undertaken in accordance with Sydney Water’s existing environmental management procedures and this would reduce the potential for impacts on adjoining environments.

6.2.5 Land Capability Assessment A land capability assessment (LCA) of the proposed irrigation area was undertaken by BMT WBM (2012a) to estimate the performance of the proposed irrigation system and identify any potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health. The preparation of the LCA is an important part of the impact mitigation for the proposal as it identifies potential risks and operational limits of the proposal. As described in Section 5.4.3, the LCA concluded that the proposed irrigation would not result in adverse impacts on the natural environment within the irrigation area or downstream environment (BMT WBM, 2012a). BMT WBM (2012a) recommended that a system be developed for diversion of up-slope surface and subsurface run-on around the irrigation zone and collection of down-slope subsurface run-on. Sydney

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Water would achieve these water management outcomes through construction of grassed swales around the proposed land application area and modifying existing farm dams for use as on-site detention ponds.

6.3 Offsetting of Impacts The proposal would result in some minor unavoidable residual adverse impacts on the natural environment, comprising the removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF, up to eight mature trees and associated habitat resources and potentially the mortality of some common native fauna during construction and during harvesting of the irrigation area. These residual impacts are not expected to impose a significant negative effect on SSTF or any local populations of native biota, including threatened species and their habitats, which occur in the study area or in adjoining habitats. A specific offset for this small impact is not proposed as the management and assessment cost of delivering an offset to compensate for such a minor impact would not be justified by the conservation outcomes that could be achieved. Biodiversity offset in the form of targeted weed management and bush regeneration may be appropriate to address these residual adverse impacts.

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7. Assessments of significance

7.1 Identification of affected threatened biota The desktop assessment, field surveys and habitat assessments undertaken for the proposal have been used to identify the suite of threatened biota that may be affected by the proposal, through either direct or indirect impacts. If threatened biota is potentially affected by a proposed activity then the significance of impacts must be assessed through Section 5A of the EPA Act (the seven part test) and/or the Matters of National Environmental Significance – Assessment of Significance guidelines (DEWHA, 2009). The DECC (2007) Threatened species assessment guidelines - the assessment of significance requires proponents to compile a list of threatened biota which may be affected by the proposal and which require an assessment of significance. Threatened biota do not have to be considered as part of the assessment of significance if adequate surveys or studies have been carried out that clearly show that the species (DECC, 2007):

 does not occur in the study area, or

 will not use on-site habitats on occasion, or

 will not be influenced by off-site impacts of the proposal. The suite of threatened biota potentially relevant to this assessment is presented in Appendix B, along with the nature of any previous records in the locality and an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence in the broader study area. Based on the surveys and habitat assessments undertaken, the majority of the threatened biota presented in Appendix B would not occur in the proposal footprint. Further, given the highly modified environment in the subsidised service area and poor quality of the habitat resources in the proposal footprint in general, the majority of threatened biota would not use on-site habitats, even on occasion. Given the limited scale and magnitude of impacts arising from the proposal and impact mitigation and environmental management measures described in Section 6, no threatened biota within the broader study area or locality are likely to be affected by potential off-site impacts of the proposal. Based on the presence of known populations in the locality and the presence of suitable habitat in the study area, one threatened plant, four species of tree-roosting microbats and one EEC are considered affected entities for the purposes of this assessment:

 Bargo Geebung (Persoonia bargoensis) which is listed as an endangered species under the TSC Act and vulnerable under the EPBC Act

 Southern Myotis (Myotis macropus) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Eastern False Pipistrelle (Falsistrellus tasmaniensis), which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Greater Broad-nosed Bat (Scoteanax rueppellii) which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act.

 Eastern Freetail Bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis), which is listed as a vulnerable species under the TSC Act

44 21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

 Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (SSTF) which is listed as an EEC under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act. The results of the assessments of significance for these affected threatened biota are summarised below.

7.2 Impacts on threatened biota listed under NSW legislation As discussed above and in Section 4.5, one threatened flora species was recorded in the proposal footprint during field surveys: Bargo Geebung (Persoonia bargoensis) which is listed as an endangered species under the TSC Act and vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Three Persoonia bargoensis were observed in vegetation immediately between the fence line along the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and Remembrance Driveway, as shown on Figure 3. Impacts on these three individuals could be avoided through the use of the existing access track and cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area to construct the transfer main and access road to the WRP. A seven part test has been prepared and is included as Appendix C. The outcome of this assessment is that the proposal is not likely to result in a significant negative impact on the local population of Persoonia bargoensis.

Construction of the WRP would require the removal of up to eight trees, including hollow-bearing trees, which may affect local populations of tree-roosting microbats. A seven part test to assess the likely significance of these impacts on Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and Eastern Freetail Bat has been prepared and is included as Appendix C. The outcome of this assessment is that the proposal is not likely to result in a significant negative impact on the local populations of these four microbat species. A total area of 0.01 hectares of SSTF would be removed at the bore locations at the northern end of Great Southern Road and a further 3.75 ha could potentially be indirectly impacted in the proposed irrigation area without appropriate mitigation measures. A seven part test to assess the likely significance of these impacts on this EEC has been prepared and is included as Appendix C. The outcome of this assessment is that the proposal is not likely to result in a significant negative impact on the local occurrence of SSTF. No other threatened biota listed under the TSC Act or their habitats are likely to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposal. As such, no additional seven-part tests pursuant to Section 5a of the EP&A Act have been prepared. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any threatened biota.

7.3 Impacts on MNES As stated above, SSTF is present within the proposal footprint. The proposal footprint would permanently remove 0.01 hectares of SSTF and there is also the potential for indirect impacts from erosion, sedimentation and nutrient enrichment arising from the proposal. Therefore an assessment of significance has been prepared in accordance with the EPBC Act Matters of National Environmental Significance –Assessment of significance guidelines Guidelines (DEWHA, 2009) is included as Appendix D. The outcome of this assessment is that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative effect on the local occurrence of SSTF. There are no additional MNES within the study area or with the potential to be indirectly affected by the proposal. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any MNES.

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8. Conclusions

The study area includes intact areas of native vegetation and fauna habitats, together with areas disturbed by historical clearing for agricultural practises, roads and residential development. Native vegetation within the proposal footprint contains moderate weed infestation attributable to disturbance and edge effects typical of a suburban environment. There is an occurrence of modified SSTF, which is listed as an EEC under the TSC and EPBC Act, within the proposal footprint. Away from these disturbed areas within the proposal footprint, the native vegetation is generally in good condition. The proposal has been carefully developed with consideration of identified ecological constraints and includes specific design features to avoid impacts on native vegetation as far as practicable, including, in particular, TECs and habitat for threatened fauna. Key features in this regard have included:

 directional drilling beneath a small portion of native vegetation in the northern portions of the transfer main where it intersects the railway line and Great Southern Road to minimise impacts on SSTF and associated habitat resources for threatened biota

 trenching in hardstand areas; in the road shoulders where available or in the carriageway to avoid impacts on native vegetation and individual mature trees. Trenching in the carriageway may be required in some sections

 using existing clearings, degraded and modified areas by construction vehicles and maintenance crews to mitigate direct effects on areas of native vegetation or fauna habitat resources (e.g. hollow- bearing trees). Use of existing clearings and modified areas for directional drilling launch and exit points for bore locations

 using an existing access track and gate in the north-eastern corner of the proposed irrigation area or underboring to avoid impacts on trees and on threatened plants within the study area. The proposal would result in relatively minor impacts on native biota and their habitat, including:

 the permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF

 construction near habitat containing three indiviudals of Persoonia bargoensis

 the removal of up to eight mature Eucaltypus trees for the construction of the WRP, including potential habitat for threatened tree-roosting micro bats.

 the modification of exotic or highly modified vegetation within the remaining extent of the proposal footprint.

 potential injury or mortality of small, common terrestrial fauna within the proposal footprint

 potential increase in the degree of edge effects in the study area and imposition of novel edge effects on native vegetation adjoining the proposal disturbance footprint. The proposal would not remove any habitat important for the local conservation of any threatened fauna species and no significant adverse impacts on threatened fauna species or their habitats are anticipated. Based on the desktop assessment, field surveys and habitat assessments undertaken the following affected threatened biota were identified:

 Shale Sandstone Transition Forest

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 Persoonia bargoensis.

 The tree-roosting microbats: Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad- nosed Bat and Eastern Freetail Bat. Assessments of significance prepared in accordance with Section 5A of the EPA Act (7-part test) and the EPBC Act Matters of National Environmental Significance –Assessment of significance guidelines (DEWHA, 2009) have concluded that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative effect on the local populations or occurrences of these threatened biota. The proposal would not impact on any other MNES listed under the EPBC Act. Specific mitigation measures would be implemented to minimise the potential indirect impacts of the proposal on the natural environment outside of the proposal footprint during construction and operation. This would include preparing and implementing a CEMP, including erosion, sediment, fauna management and weed control measures to minimise the potential for adverse impacts on adjoining and downstream habitats. This would involve specific measures such as vegetated swales to protect areas of retained vegetation, including SSTF adjoining the proposal disturbance footprint. Given the specific design features and modifications to avoid direct impacts on ecologically sensitive areas and the above mitigation measures to minimise the potential for any indirect impacts, there is likely to only be very minor residual impacts on the natural environment. Any residual impacts are not expected to impose a significant negative effect on any local populations of native biota, including threatened species, ecological communities and their habitats, which occur in the study area or in adjoining habitats.

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Higgins, P.J. (Ed) (1999), Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds, vol. 4, Oxford University Press, Melbourne. Hoye, G.A. and Richards, G.C. (2008). Greater Broad-nosed Bat Scoteanax rueppellii. In S. Van Dyke and R. Strahan (eds), 'The Mammals of Australia' 3rd edition. Reed New Holland, Chatswood. Hoye, G.A. and Schulz, M. (2008). Large-eared Pied Bat Chalinolobus dwyeri. In S. Van Dyke and R. Strahan (eds), 'The Mammals of Australia' 3rd edition. Reed New Holland, Chatswood. Johnston, P.G. (2008) Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus. In S. Van Dyke and R. Strahan (eds), 'The Mammals of Australia' 3rd edition. Reed New Holland, Chatswood. Kearney, R.E & M.A. Kildea (2001). The Status of the Murray Cod in the Murray-Darling Basin. Page(s) 66pp. [Online]. Environment Australia. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/water/publications/mdb/pubs/murray-cod.pdf. Law, B.S., Herr, A. and Phillips, W. (2008). Eastern False Pipistrelle Falsistrellus tasmaniensis. In S. Van Dyke and R. Strahan (eds), 'The Mammals of Australia' 3rd edition. Reed New Holland, Chatswood. Lock, M.L. and Wilson, B.A. (1999). The distribution of the New Holland mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae) with respect to vegetation near Anglesea, Victoria. Wildlife Research 26 (4) 565-577

Mahony, M., Knowles, R. and Pattinson, L. (1997). Stuttering Barred Frog. In H. Ehmann (ed) 'Threatened Frogs of New South Wales: Habitats, Status and Conservation' pp.65-71. Frog and Tadpole Study Group of NSW. NSW DPI (2006a). Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus): NSW Recovery Plan. Threatened Species Recovery Planning Program, NSW Department of Primary Industries. NSW DPI (2006b). Trout Cod (Maccullochella macquariensis) Recovery Plan. Threatened Species Unit, Fisheries Conservation and Aquaculture Branch, NSW Department of Primary Industries. OEH (2011a) NPWS Wildlife Atlas data. Office of Environment and Heritage (NSW). (Data supplied by OEH Wildlife Data Unit, 13 February 2012). Sutter, G. (2011). National Recovery Plan for the Rufous Pomaderris (Pomaderris brunnea). Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne. Tulloch, A.I. and Dickman, C.R. (2006). Floristic and structural components of habitat use by the eastern pygmy-possum (Cercartetus nanus) in burnt and unburnt habitats. Wildlife Research 33: 627-637 Tumino, M. 2010. National Recovery Plan for the Basalt Peppercress Lepidium hyssopifolium. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne. Ward, S.J. and Turner,V. (2008). Eastern Pygmy Possum Cercartetus nanus. In S. Van Dyke and R. Strahan (eds), 'The Mammals of Australia' 3rd edition. Reed New Holland, Chatswood. White, A.W. (2008b). The Distribution and Conservation Status of Barred Frogs in the Sydney Basin. Part 2. Stuttering Frog Mixophyes balbus. Herpetofauna 38(2) 84-95. Wilson, B.A. and Bradtke, E. (1999). The diet of the New Holland mouse, Pseudomys novaehollandiae (Waterhouse) in Victoria. Wildlife Research 26(4) 439-451

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Appendix A Species Lists

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Table 7 Fauna species list Location *R- Residential, W- Intact TSC EPBC Observation Woodland, P- Class Family Exotic Scientific Name Common Name Status Status Type Pasture Aves Acanthizidae Acanthiza nana Yellow Thornbill Heard W Aves Petroicidae Microeca fascinans Jacky Winter Heard W Aves Meliphagidae Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird Heard W Aves Artamidae Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie Heard R,W Aves Corvidae Corvus coronoides Australian Raven Heard R,W Aves Meliphagidae Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner Heard R Aves Monarchidae Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark Seen R Aves Meliphagidae Philemon corniculatus Noisy Friarbird Seen W Aves Meliphagidae Manorina melanophrys Bell Miner Heard W Aves Pycnonotidae * Pycnonotus jocosus Red-whiskered bulbul Heard W Aves Pachycephalidae Pachycephala pectoralis Golden Whistler Heard W Aves Ardeidae Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced heron Seen P Aves Maluridae Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren Seen W Aves Falconidae Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel Seen P Aves Charadriidae Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing Seen P Aves Cacatuidae Eolophus roseicapillus Galah Seen R Aves Corvidae Corvus mellori Little Raven Seen R,W Aves Pelecanidae Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican Seen P Aves Meliphagidae Lichenostomus chrysops Yellow-faced Honeyeater Heard W Aves Maluridae Malurus pulcherrimus Blue-breasted Fairy-wren Heard W Aves Psittacidae Platycercus eximius Eastern Rosella Seen W Aves Timaliidae Zosterops lateralis Silvereye Heard W Aves Turdidae * Turdus merula Eurasian Blackbird Heard W Aves Acanthizidae Gerygone albogularis White-throated Gerygone Heard W Aves Meliphagidae Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris Eastern Spinebill Heard W * This document is in a draft and not a final issued form. The contents of this draft document including any opinions, conclusions or recommendations contained in or which may be implied from this draft document must not in any way whatsoever be relied upon. GHD reserves the right, at any time with or without notice, to amend, modify or retract any part or all of the draft document including any opinions, conclusions, or recommendations contained therein. Unauthorised use of this draft document in any form whatsoever is strictly prohibited. To the maximum extent permitted by law, GHD disclaims any responsibility for liability howsoever arising from or in connection with this draft document.

Location *R- Residential, W- Intact TSC EPBC Observation Woodland, P- Class Family Exotic Scientific Name Common Name Status Status Type Pasture Aves Meliphagidae Melithreptus lunatus White-naped Honeyeater Heard W Aves Columbidae Geopelia striata Peaceful Dove Heard W Aves Cuculidae Chalcites lucidus Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Seen W Aves Cuculidae Chalcites basalis Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo Heard W Aves Rhipiduridae Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail Seen R,W Aves Meliphagidae Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris Eastern Spinebill Heard W Aves Acanthizidae Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill Heard W Aves Meliphagidae Lichenostomus melanops Yellow-tufted Honeyeater Seen W Black-faced Cuckoo- Aves Campephagidae Coracina novaehollandiae shrike Seen R,W Aves Pardalotidae Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote Heard W Aves Pachycephalidae Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush Heard W Aves Rhipiduridae Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail Seen P,W Aves Pardalotidae Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote Heard W Aves Alcedinidae Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra Seen R Aves Accipitridae Accipiter novaehollandiae Grey Goshawk Seen R Aves Cacatuidae Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Seen R Aves Psittacidae Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet Heard R

* This document is in a draft and not a final issued form. The contents of this draft document including any opinions, conclusions or recommendations contained in or which may be implied from this draft document must not in any way whatsoever be relied upon. GHD reserves the right, at any time with or without notice, to amend, modify or retract any part or all of the draft document including any opinions, conclusions, or recommendations contained therein. Unauthorised use of this draft document in any form whatsoever is strictly prohibited. To the maximum extent permitted by law, GHD disclaims any responsibility for liability howsoever arising from or in connection with this draft document.

Table 8 Flora species list TSC EPBC Family Exotic Scientific Name Common Name Status Status Poaceae * Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Grass Asteraceae * Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed Juncaceae Juncus usitatus Poaceae * Sporobolus africanus Parramatta Grass Poaceae * Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Fabaceae (Faboideae) * Trifolium subterraneum Subterranean Clover Asteraceae * Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Plantaginaceae * Plantago lanceolata Lamb's Tongues Myrsinaceae * Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel Poaceae * Eragrostis cilianensis Stinkgrass Verbenaceae * Verbena bonariensis Purpletop Myrtaceae Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum Poaceae Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass Pittosporaceae Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia decurrens Black Wattle Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Poaceae Aristida sp. A Wiregrass Poaceae Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass Chenopodiaceae Einadia nutans subsp. nutans Climbing Saltbush Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia implexa Hickory Wattle Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata Grey Gum Myrtaceae Eucalyptus eugenioides Thin-leaved Stringybark Santalaceae Exocarpos cupressiformis Cherry Ballart Myrtaceae Kunzea ambigua Tick Bush

* This document is in a draft and not a final issued form. The contents of this draft document including any opinions, conclusions or recommendations contained in or which may be implied from this draft document must not in any way whatsoever be relied upon. GHD reserves the right, at any time with or without notice, to amend, modify or retract any part or all of the draft document including any opinions, conclusions, or recommendations contained therein. Unauthorised use of this draft document in any form whatsoever is strictly prohibited. To the maximum extent permitted by law, GHD disclaims any responsibility for liability howsoever arising from or in connection with this draft document.

TSC EPBC Family Exotic Scientific Name Common Name Status Status Pittosporaceae Bursaria spinosa Native Blackthorn Poaceae Microlaena stipoides Weeping Grass Poaceae Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic Caprifoliaceae * Lonicera sp. Lobeliaceae Pratia purpurascens Whiteroot Poaceae Oplismenus aemulus Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sclerophylla Hard-leaved Scribbly Gum Asteraceae * Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Malvaceae * Sida rhombifolia Paddy's Lucerne Oleaceae * Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet Poaceae * Eragrostis curvula African Lovegrass Poaceae * Setaria sp. Dilleniaceae Hibbertia sp. Poaceae * Briza minor Shivery Grass Asparagaceae * Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper Phormiaceae Dianella revoluta Blueberry Lily Rosaceae * Rubus fruticosus sp. agg. Blackberry complex Thymelaeaceae Pimelea linifolia Slender Rice Flower Dilleniaceae Hibbertia aspera Rough Guinea Flower Dennstaedtiaceae Hypolepis muelleri Harsh Ground Fern Lauraceae Cassytha sp. Rubiaceae Galium gaudichaudii Rough Bedstraw Proteaceae Persoonia sp. Proteaceae Persoonia glaucescens Mittagong Geebung E V Proteaceae Persoonia bargoensis Bargo Geebung E V Proteaceae Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora Small-flower Grevillea V V Myrtaceae Eucalyptus resinifera Red Mahogany

* This document is in a draft and not a final issued form. The contents of this draft document including any opinions, conclusions or recommendations contained in or which may be implied from this draft document must not in any way whatsoever be relied upon. GHD reserves the right, at any time with or without notice, to amend, modify or retract any part or all of the draft document including any opinions, conclusions, or recommendations contained therein. Unauthorised use of this draft document in any form whatsoever is strictly prohibited. To the maximum extent permitted by law, GHD disclaims any responsibility for liability howsoever arising from or in connection with this draft document.

Appendix B Threatened Biota Table

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Threatened ecological communities known or predicted to occur in the locality, community description and presence/absence in the study area

Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

TECs

Cumberland Plain Shale Component CEEC Grassy woodlands and forests of the shale hills and plains of the Cumberland Mapped as occurring Absent Woodlands and Shale EECs listed Plain and associated transitional communities on shale-gravel soils. Canopy within 10km (Tozer Gravel Transition Forest separately typically dominated by Eucalyptus moluccana, E. tereticornis and/or E. et al 2010) (federal listing) fibrosa. Sparse small tree stratum of young eucalypts and Acacia species Predicted to occur and/or shrub layer dominated by Bursaria spinosa may be present. within 10km Understorey comprises perennial native grasses, grasslike and non-woody (DSEWPaC 2012a) plants.

Cumberland Plain EEC May qualify Grassy woodland/forest endemic to the hills and plains of the Cumberland Mapped as occurring Absent Woodland (NSW listing) as CEEC Plain. Canopy typically dominated by Eucalyptus moluccana and E. within 10km (Tozer tereticornis, with E. crebra, Corymbia maculata and E. eugenoides occurring et al 2010) less frequently. Shrub layer dominated by Bursaria spinosa, and grasses such as Themeda australis and Microlaena stipoides var stipoides.

Freshwater Wetlands on EEC - Occurs in coastal areas subject to periodic flooding with standing fresh water Mapped as occurring Absent Coastal Floodplains for at least part of the year. Typically on silts, muds or humic loams below 20 within 10km (Tozer m elevation in low-lying parts of floodplains, alluvial flats, depressions, et al 2010) drainage lines, backswamps, lagoons and lakes. Structure and composition

varies spatially and temporally depending on the water regime, though is usually dominated by herbaceous plants and has few woody species.

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Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Moist Shale Forest EEC - Occurs on clay soils from Wianamatta Shale in the southern half of the Mapped as occurring Absent Cumberland Plain, and is intermediate between Cumberland Plain Woodland within 10km (Tozer and Western Sydney Dry Rainforest. et al 2010) Similar to Cumberland Plain Woodland but with more mesic shrub understorey. Dominant canopy trees include Forest Red Gum Eucalyptus tereticornis, Grey Box E. moluccana, Narrow-leaved Ironbark E. crebra and Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata. Small trees, such as Hickory Wattle Acacia implexa and Sydney Green Wattle A. parramattensis ssp parramattensis are also common. The shrub layer includes Breynia oblongifolia, Hairy Clerodendrum Clerodendrum tomentosum and Indian Weed Siegesbeckia orientalis ssp. orientalis.

River-Flat Eucalypt EEC - A forest or tall forest with a variety of Eucalyptus species. Occurs on flats, Mapped as occurring Present in remnant Forest on Coastal drainage lines and river terraces of coastal floodplains where flooding is within 10km (Tozer vegetation directly adjoining the service Floodplains of the NSW periodic and soils generally rich in silt, lack deep humic layers and have little et al 2010) area, including in the North Coast, Sydney or no saline (salt) influence. Occurs south from Port Stephens in the NSW vicinity of Kadar Basin and South East North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions. Characterised by Street and Paperbark Corner bioregions a tall open canopy layer of eucalypts with variable species composition. Place.

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Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Shale-sandstone EEC EEC Occurs on the edges of the Cumberland Plain where clay soils on shale Present. Mapped Present in remnant Transition Forest intergrade with sandstone soils, or where shale caps overlay sandstone. during field surveys. vegetation directly adjoining the service Species composition variable depending on soil influences. Dominant tree Mapped as occurring area and bore species include Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. punctata, E. globoidea, E. within 10km (Tozer location including on eugenioides, E. fibrosa and E. crebra. Areas with a low sandstone influence the north side of et al 2010) have an understorey closer to Cumberland Plain Woodland. Wellers road, the west side of Elvy Predicted to occur Street between within 10km Thorncroft Close and (DSEWPaC 2012a) Kader Street, the southern portion of Tylers Road and northern side of Marshall Avenue.

Southern Highlands EEC - Confined to a small area in the Wingecarribee LGA, between the Illawarra Mapped as occurring Absent Shale Woodlands in the Escarpment in the east, Burrawang and Bundanoon in the south, Canyonleigh within 10km (Tozer Sydney Basin Bioregion in the west and Berrima and Colo Vale in the north. Occurs on clay soils on et al 2010) Wianamatta Shale, between approx. 60-800 m asl. Typically woodland but also tall open forest, grassy woodland and scrub. Dominant canopy species vary across the range. Shrub layer generally open although may have dense patches and groundlayer typically comprises diverse native grasses and herbs.

Sydney Turpentine- EEC CEEC Occurs on the Cumberland Plain ,with most remnants in Baulkham Hills, Mapped as occurring Absent Ironbark Forest Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Parramatta, Ryde, Sutherland and within 10km (Tozer Wollondilly LGAs. Open forest characterised by Syncarpia glomulifera, et al 2010) Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus paniculata and E. eugenoides. In areas of Predicted to occur high rainfall (over 1050 mm per annum) E. saligna is more dominant. Sparse within 10km shrub stratum of Pittosporum undulatum and Polyscias sambucifolia. (DSEWPaC 2012a)

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Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Temperate Highland - EEC Occurs on sandstone in temperate highland regions from around 600–1100 m Mapped as occurring Absent Peat Swamps on above sea level. Known from the Blue Mountains, Lithgow, Southern within 10km (Tozer Sandstone Highlands, and Bombala regions. Swamps occurring across a range of et al 2010) locations in the landscape, from hanging swamps to depressions in the landscape, or along watercourses. Wetter parts are occupied by sphagnum bogs and fens, with sedge and shrub associations in the drier parts.

Western Sydney Dry EEC - Restricted to hilly country where it occurs on clay soils derived from Mapped as occurring Absent Rainforest in the Sydney Wianamatta shale on sheltered lower slopes and gullies. Very restricted and within 10km (Tozer Basin Bioregion occurs mostly in the Razorback Range near Picton. Outlying occurrences at et al 2010) Grose Vale and Cattai. Canopy trees include Melaleuca styphelioides, Acacia implexa and Alectryon subcinereus. Shrub layer includes rainforest species Notolaea longifolia, Clerodendrum tomentosum and Pittosporum revolutum. The shrub layer combines with vines to form dense thickets in sheltered locations.

White Box- Yellow Box – EEC CE Occurs on the tablelands and western slopes of NSW, on moderate to highly Predicted to occur Absent Blakely’s Red Gum fertile soils. Found in areas with annual rainfall between 400 - 1200 mm, at within 10km Grassy Woodland and altitudes between 170 - 1200 m asl. Open woodland/forest, characterised by (DSEWPaC 2012a) Derived Native Eucalyptus albens, E. melliodora and E. blakelyi. Intact sites are rare, but Grassland contain a high species diversity of trees, shrubs, climbers, grasses and particularly herbs. The NSW listing includes sites with/without canopy layer and areas with predominately exotic groundlayer, whereas to meet the federal listing criteria areas must have either intact tree layer and predominately native groundlayer, or an intact ground layer with high species diversity but no remaining tree layer.

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Threatened flora known or predicted from the locality, habitat association and suitable habitat present at the site

Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Flora

Acacia bynoeana Bynoe's Wattle E V Endemic to central eastern NSW, currently known from only Predicted to occur Possible in intact 34 locations, many of only 1-5 plants. within 10km native vegetation in Grows mainly in heath/ dry sclerophyll forest on sandy soils, (DSEWPaC 2012a) the study area prefers open, sometimes slightly disturbed sites such as trail margins, road edges, and in recently burnt open patches. Flowers September to March, and fruit matures in November.

Acacia flocktoniae Flockton Wattle V V Occurs in the southern Blue Mountains (Mt Victoria, 1 record within 10km Possible in intact Megalong Valley and Yerranderrie), between 500- 1000m asl (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in in areas with average annual rainfall of 800-1200 mm. the study area Predicted to occur Grows in dry sclerophyll forest on low nutrient soils derived within 10km from sandstone. Associated species include Acacia stricta (DSEWPaC 2012a) and Podolobium ilicifolium.

Asterolasia elegans E E Occurs north of Sydney, in the Baulkham Hills, Hawkesbury Predicted to occur Unlikely. and Hornsby LGAs, may also occur in the western part of within 10km Outside known Gosford LGA. 7 known populations. (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, Occurs on Hawkesbury sandstone, commonly amongst rocky preferred soils and outcrops and boulders in sheltered forests on mid- to lower geomorphic settings slopes and valleys. not present.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Caladenia tessellata E V Occurs from Central Coast NSW to southern VIC. Mostly Predicted to occur Unlikely. coastal but extends inland to Braidwood in southern NSW. within 10km Outside known In NSW grows in grassy dry sclerophyll woodland on clay (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, loam or sandy soils, and less commonly in heathland on preferred soils and sandy loam soils (Duncan 2010). geomorphic settings not present.

Cryptostylis hunteriana Leafless Tongue V V Occurs in coastal areas from East Gippsland to southern Predicted to occur Unlikely. Orchid Queensland. Habitat preferences not well defined. within 10km Outside known Grows mostly in coastal heathlands, margins of coastal (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, swamps and sedgelands, coastal forest, dry woodland, and preferred soils and lowland forest. Prefers open areas in the understorey and is geomorphic settings often found in association with Cryptostylis subulata and the not present. Cryptostylis erecta. Soils include moist sands, moist to dry clay loam and occasionally in accumulated eucalypt leaves. Flowers November-February.

Cynanchum elegans White-flowering Wax E E Occurs from Gerroa (Illawarra) to Brunswick Heads and west Predicted to occur Unlikely. Plant to Merriwa in the upper Hunter. Most common near within 10km Outside known Kempsey. (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, Usually occurs on the edge of dry rainforest or littoral preferred soils and rainforest, but also occurs in Coastal Banksia Scrub, open geomorphic settings forest and woodland, and Melaleuca scrub. Soil and geology not present. types are not limiting.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Darwinia peduncularis V - Disjunct populations in coastal NSW with isolated 2 records within Possible in intact populations in the Blue Mountains. Recorded from 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in Brooklyn, Berowra, Galston Gorge, Hornsby, Bargo River, the study area. Glen Davis, Mount Boonbourwa and Kings Tableland. Usually grows in dry sclerophyll forest on hillsides and ridges, on or near rocky outcrops on sandy, well drained, low nutrient soil over sandstone.

Epacris purpurascens V - Occurs from Gosford in the north, Narrabeen in the east, 40 records within Possible in intact var. purpurascens Silverdale in the west and Avon Dam vicinity in the South. 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in Grows in a range of sclerophyll forest, scrubs and swamps, the study area most of which have a strong shale soil influence.

Genoplesium baueri Bauer’s Midge Orchid V - Occurs from Ulladulla to Port Stephens, with only 13 known 1 record within 10km Unlikely. extant populations. Grows in sparse sclerophyll forest and (OEH 2012a) Preferred moss gardens over sandstone geomorphic settings not present. Occurs between Moss Vale/Bargo and lower Hunter Valley, Grevillea parviflora Small-flower Grevillea V V 50 records within Present. This species with most occurrences in Appin, Wedderburn, Picton and subsp. parviflora Bargo. Broad habitat range including heath, shrubby 10km (OEH 2012a) was recorded on woodland and open forest on light clay or sandy soils, and Silica Road and to Predicted to occur often in disturbed areas such as on the fringes of tracks. the north east of the within 10km proposed bore (DSEWPaC 2012a) location.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Lepidium hyssopifolium Aromatic Peppercress E E Currently known near Bathurst and Bungendore, with Predicted to occur Unlikely. historic records near Armidale. within 10km Outside known Grows on light to heavy, often friable clay loams, often in (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, highly modified environments amongst exotic pasture preferred soils and grasses and weeds. Requires bare ground to establish geomorphic settings (Tumino 2010) not present.

Leucopogon exolasius Woronora Beard- V V Occurs along the upper Georges River and in Heathcote NP, 7 records within Possible in intact heath Royal NP and is also known from the Blue Mountains along 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in the Grose River. the study area Grows in woodland on sandstone and prefers rocky hillsides along creek banks up to 100 m altitude. Associated species include Eucalyptus piperita and E. sieberi and Pultenaea flexilis, Leptospermum trinervium and Dillwynia retorta.

Melaleuca deanei Deane's Paperbark V V Occurs from Nowra- St Albans and west to the Blue 5 records within Possible in intact Mountains, with most records in Ku-ring-gai / Berowra and 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in Holsworthy/Wedderburn areas. the study area Predicted to occur Mostly grows on broad flat ridgetops, dry ridges and slopes within 10km and strongly associated with low nutrient sandy loam soils, (DSEWPaC 2012a) sometimes with ironstone. Grows in heath- open forest, often in sandstone ridgetop woodland communities.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Persoonia acerosa Needle Geebung V V Recorded on central coast and in Blue Mountains, from Mt 2 records within Possible in intact Tomah to Hill Top (though now believed extinct in Hill Top). 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in Mainly in Katoomba, Wentworth Falls and Springwood the study area Predicted to occur areas. within 10km Inhabits dry sclerophyll forest, scrubby low woodland and (DSEWPaC 2012a) heath on sandstone. Occurs in well-drained soils including sands, laterite and gravels between 550- 1000m asl. May occur in disturbed areas eg roadsides.

Persoonia bargoensis Bargo Geebung E V Restricted to the western edge of the Woronora Plateau and 270 records within Recorded adjoining the northern edge of the Southern Highlands, bounded by 10km (OEH 2012a) the irrigation area Picton, Douglas Park, Yanderra and the Cataract River. and to the north of Predicted to occur Occurs in woodland or dry sclerophyll forest on sandstone the bore location within 10km and clayey laterite on heavier, well drained, loamy, gravely (DSEWPaC 2012a) soils of Hawkesbury Sandstone and Wianamatta Shale. Tends to occur in disturbed areas e.g. roadsides and trail margins.

Persoonia glaucescens Mittagong Geebung E V Found between Picton and the Kangaroo Valley. Grows in 84 records within Recorded within gravelly well-drained soils in dry sclerophyll woodland or 10km (OEH 2012a) intact native forest on sandstone, from 400 to 650 m asl. Prefers vegetation in the Predicted to occur ridgetops, plateaux and upper slopes. study area (see within 10km Figure 3) (DSEWPaC 2012a)

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Persoonia hirsuta Hairy Geebung E E Occurs within the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands and 332 records within Likely in intact native Sydney coastal regions from Hilltop to Glen Davis and Royal 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the NP to Gosford. Population within the Hills Shire particularly study area but not Predicted to occur important due to high density of plants. Grows on sandy present in the within 10km soils in dry sclerophyll open forest, woodland and heath on proposal disturbance (DSEWPaC 2012a) sandstone up to 600m above sea level. footprint.

Pimelea spicata Spiked Rice Flower E E Disjunct populations within the Cumberland Plain (from Predicted to occur Unlikely. Mount Annan and Narellan Vale to Freemans Reach and within 10km Outside known Penrith to Georges Hall) and Illawarra (from Mt Warrigal to (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, Gerroa) (DEC 2005). preferred soils and In the Cumberland Plain region, restricted to areas which geomorphic settings support or historically supported Cumberland Plain not present. Woodland. Grows on well-structured clay soils derived from Wianamatta Shale (DEC 2005).

Pomaderris brunnea Rufous Pomaderris V V Mainly occurs in SW Sydney (Wollondilly and Camden LGAs), 11 records within Possible in intact with other populations in the Hawkesbury-Wollemi region, 10km (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in near Walcha in the New England tablelands and Gippsland the study area Predicted to occur in VIC. within 10km In NSW, grows in moist woodland or open forest on clay and (DSEWPaC 2012a) alluvial soils on flood plains and creek lines. Near Sydney occurs in open woodland dominated by E. amplifolia with Allocasuarina sp. and Bursaria sp. understorey, or on alluvial flats with eucalypts including E. elata, E. piperita and E. punctata (Sutter 2011).

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Pterostylis saxicola Sydney Plains E E Occurs in western Sydney between Picton and Freemans Predicted to occur Unlikely. Greenhood Reach. Grows in small pockets of shallow soil in depressions within 10km Outside known on sandstone rock shelves above cliff lines. Associated (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, vegetation above these rock shelves is sclerophyll forest or preferred soils and woodland on shale or shale/sandstone transition soils. geomorphic settings not present.

Pultenaea glabra Smooth Bush-pea V V In NSW restricted to higher Blue Mountains in the Predicted to occur Unlikely. Katoomba-Hazelbrook and Mt Victoria areas. Unconfirmed within 10km Outside known sightings in Mt Wilson and Mt Irvine areas. (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, Grows in swamp margins, hillslopes, gullies and creekbanks preferred soils and and occurs within dry sclerophyll forest and tall damp heath geomorphic settings on sandstone. not present.

Rulingia prostrata Dwarf Kerrawang E E In NSW occurs as individual plants at Penrose State Forest, 2 records within Unlikely. Rose Lagoon and Tallong, and small populations near the 10km (OEH 2012a) Outside known Corang River, and at the Tomago sand beds near Newcastle. distribution, Grows on sandy, sometimes peaty soils in a variety of preferred soils and habitats. geomorphic settings not present.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC Act EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Presence in study area

Tetratheca glandulosa V V Restricted to The Hills, Gosford, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Ku- 1 record within 10km Possible in intact ring-gai, Pittwater, Ryde, Warringah, and Wyong LGAs. (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in Associated with shale-sandstone transition habitat (shale- the study area cappings over sandstone). Occupies ridgetops, upper-slopes and to a lesser extent mid-slope sandstone benches. Soils generally shallow, yellow, clayey/sandy loam, commonly with lateritic fragments. Vegetation varies from heath to open forest and is broadly equivalent to Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland community.

Thelymitra sp. Kangaloon Sun-orchid - CE Only known from three locations near Robertson in the Predicted to occur Unlikely. Kangaloon Southern Highlands. within 10km Outside known Grows in seasonally swampy sedgeland on grey silty clay (DSEWPaC 2012a) distribution, loam at 600–700 m above sea level. Flowers in late October preferred soils and and early November. geomorphic settings not present.

Fungi Recorded from the Lane Cove LGA and the Royal and Hygrocybe anomala var. V 1 record within 10km Possible in intact Blue Mountains NPs. Inhabits gallery warm temperate ianthinomarginata (OEH 2012a) native vegetation in forests dominated by Acmena smithii, Backhousia myrtifolia, Glochidion ferdinandi and Pittosporum the study area undulatum. Associated with alluvial sandy soils, in soil, humus, moss or rotten wood.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Threatened fauna known or predicted from the locality, habitat association and suitable habitat present within the site and study area

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

FAUNA

Birds

Botaurus Australasian E E Widespread but uncommon over most NSW except the northwest. Predicted to occur Unlikely, no suitable poiciloptilus Bittern Favours permanent freshwater wetlands with tall dense reedbeds within 10km wetland habitat in the particularly Typha spp. and Eleocharis spp., with adjacent shallow, open (DSEWPaC 2012a) study area. water for foraging. Roosts during the day amongst dense reeds or rushes and feeds mainly at night on frogs, fish, yabbies, spiders, insects and snails.

Melithreptus Black-chinned V - Widespread in NSW, but rarely recorded east of Great Dividing Range 6 records within Possible in intact gularis gularis Honeyeater except in Richmond and Clarence River areas and scattered sites in the 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra regions. Mostly in upper levels of study area. drier open forests /woodlands dominated by box and ironbark eucalypts, Typically known from or less commonly smooth-barked gums, stringybarks and tea-treas. open forest types Forage over home range of >5 ha. Tend to occur within largest woodland farther west, but patches in the landscape. They forage for insects, nectar and honeydew. potential foraging The nest is hidden by foliage high in the crown of a tree. habitats present.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Climacteris Brown Treecreeper V - Occurs from Corowa, Wagga Wagga, Temora, Forbes, Dubbo and Inverell 9 records within Possible in intact picumnus to the east coast, in areas such as the Snowy River Valley, Cumberland 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the victoriae Plain, Hunter Valley and parts of the Richmond and Clarence Valleys. study area. Most common on the inland slopes and plains. Inhabits eucalypt Typically known from woodlands and dry open forest, usually dominated by stringybarks or open forest types rough-barked species with open grassy understorey. Fallen timber is farther west, but important foraging habitat. Nests in hollows in standing trees or stumps. potential foraging habitats present.

Burhinus Bush Stone-curlew E - Scattered distribution across NSW. The nearest known population to the 1 record within 10km Unlikely suitable open grallarius site is in CHECK (DEC 2006). Inhabits lowland grassy woodland and open (OEH 2012a) woodland vegetation. forest and, in coastal areas, Casuarina and Melaleuca woodlands, saltmarsh and mangroves. Requires a low, sparse groundcover, some fallen timber and leaf litter, and a general lack of a shrubby understory (DEC 2006).

Stagonopleura Diamond Firetail V - Typically found west of the Great Dividing Range, but populations also 4 records within Possible in intact guttata occur in drier coastal areas including W Sydney, Hunter, Clarence and 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the Snowy River valleys. Occurs in grassy eucalypt woodlands including Box study area. Gum and Snow Gum communities, as well as open forest, mallee and Typically known from natural and derived grasslands. Often found in riparian areas and grassy woodland occasionally in lightly wooded farmland. Nests in shrubby understorey or types farther west, higher up under nests of other species. but potential foraging habitats present.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Dasyornis Eastern Bristlebird E E Occurs in three disjunct areas of south-eastern Australia: southern Predicted to occur Possible in intact brachypterus Queensland/northern NSW, the Illawarra Region and in the vicinity of within 10km vegetation in the the NSW/Victorian border. Illawarra population comprises an estimated (DSEWPaC 2012a) study area. 1600 birds, mainly from Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, Budderoo Typically known from National Park and the Jervis Bay area. Habitat characterised by dense, heathy, open forest low vegetation including heath and open woodland with a heathy types farther south, understorey. The fire history of habitat is important, and the Illawarra but potential foraging and southern populations reach maximum densities in habitat that have habitats present not been burnt for over 15 years.

Callocephalon Gang-gang V - Restricted to SE coast and highlands south from the Hunter Valley. 24 records within Possible suitable fimbriatum Cockatoo Spends summer in tall mountain forests and woodlands, usually heavily 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging habitat timbered and mature wet sclerophyll forests. Winters at lower altitudes present in native in drier more open eucalypt forest and woodlands, particularly in coastal vegetation areas. Nests in summer in large tree hollows, often close to water, throughout study usually in tall mature sclerophyll forests with a dense understorey, and area. occasionally in coastal forests. Feeds on seeds, particularly Eucalyptus and Acacia, also berries, fruit and insects (Higgins 1999).

Calyptorhynchus Glossy Black- V - Widespread but uncommon from coast to southern tablelands and 8 records within Possible suitable lathami Cockatoo central western plains. Feeds almost exclusively on the seeds of 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting Allocasuarina species. Prefers woodland and open forests, rarely away habitat present in from Allocasuarina. Roost in leafy canopy trees, preferably eucalypts, native vegetation usually <1 km from feeding site. Nests in large (approx. 20 cm) hollows in throughout study trees, stumps or limbs, usually in eucalypts (Higgins 1999). area.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Hieraaetus Little Eagle V - Occurs throughout NSW except most densely forested parts of the 1 record within 10km Possible suitable morphnoides Dividing Range escarpment. Occupies habitats rich in prey within open (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting eucalypt forest, woodland or open woodland. Sheoak or acacia habitat present in woodlands and riparian woodlands of interior NSW are also used. For native vegetation nest sites it requires a tall living tree within a remnant patch, where pairs throughout study build a large stick nest in winter and lay in early spring. area.

Glossopsitta Little Lorikeet V - Occurs from coast to western slopes of the Great Dividing Range. 2 records within Possible suitable pusilla Inhabits dry, open eucalypt forests and woodlands. Occurrence is 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting positively associated with patch size, and with components of habitat habitat present in complexity including canopy cover, shrub cover, ground cover, logs, native vegetation fallen branches and litter. Feed primarily on profusely-flowering throughout study eucalypts and a variety of other species including melaleucas and area. mistletoes. On the western slopes and tablelands Eucalyptus albens and E. melliodora are particularly important food sources for pollen and nectar respectively. Mostly nests in small (opening approx. 3cm) hollows in living, smooth-barked eucalypts, especially Eucalyptus viminalis, E. blakelyi and E. dealbata. Most breeding records are from the western slopes.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl E V Occurs in semi-arid to arid mallee country in the south-west of NSW. Its Predicted to occur Unlikely suitable NSW stronghold is centred on Mallee Cliffs NP, extending east to within 10km mallee vegetation. Balranald and with scattered records north to Mungo NP. There are also (DSEWPaC 2012a) populations in the Scotia mallee (W of the darling River), central NSW (chiefly Yathong, Nombinnie and Round Hill NR), and Dubbo (Goonoo forest). Occasional records exist from the Pilliga, around Cobar and Goulburn River NP. Inhabits predominately mallee communities, apparently preferring areas of sandy soil, abundant leaf litter, dense canopy and an abundance of food shrubs and herbs (especially legumes),.

Tyto Masked Owl V - Occurs across NSW except NW corner. Most common on the coast. 2 records within Possible suitable novaehollandiae Inhabits dry eucalypt woodlands from sea level to 1100 m. Roosts and 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting breeds in large (>40cm) hollows and sometime caves in moist eucalypt habitat present in forested gullies. Hunts along the edges of forests and roadsides. Home native vegetation range between 500 ha and 1000 ha. Prey mostly terrestrial mammals but throughout study arboreal species may also be taken. area.

Rostratula Painted Snipe (was E V, M Normally found in permanent or ephemeral shallow inland wetlands, Predicted to occur Unlikely, no suitable benghalensis Australian Painted either freshwater or brackish. Nests on the ground amongst tall reed- within 10km wetland habitat in the Snipe) like vegetation near water. Feeds on mudflats and the water's edge (DSEWPaC 2012a) study area. taking insects, worm and seeds. Prefers fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas with cover of grasses, lignum, low scrub or open timber.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl V - Occurs from the coast to the western slopes. Solitary and sedentary 7 records within Possible suitable species. Inhabits a range of habitats from woodland and open sclerophyll 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting forest to tall open wet forest and rainforest. Prefers large tracts of habitat present in vegetation. Nests in large tree hollows (> 0.5 m deep), in large eucalypts native vegetation (dbh 80-240 cm) that are at least 150 years old. Pairs have high fidelity throughout study to a small number of hollow-bearing nest trees and defend a large home area. range of 400 - 1,450 ha. Forages within open and closed woodlands as well as open areas.

Anthochaera Regent CE E In NSW confined to two known breeding areas: the Capertee Valley and Predicted to occur Possible in intact phrygia Honeyeater Bundarra-Barraba region. Non-breeding flocks occasionally seen in within 10km vegetation in the coastal areas foraging in flowering Spotted Gum and Swamp Mahogany (DSEWPaC 2012a) study area. forests, presumably in response to drought. Inhabits dry open forest and Typically known from woodlands, particularly Box-Ironbark woodland and riparian forests of open forest types River Sheoak, with an abundance of mature trees, high canopy cover and farther west, but abundance of mistletoes. potential foraging habitats present.

Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin V - In NSW occurs from coast to inland slopes. Breeds in drier eucalypt 12 records within Possible in intact forests and temperate woodlands, often on ridges and slopes, within 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the open understorey of shrubs and grasses and sometimes in open areas. In study area. autumn and winter it migrates to more open habitats such as grassy Typically known from open woodland or paddocks with scattered trees. Abundant logs and open forest types coarse woody debris are important habitat components. farther west, but potential foraging habitats present.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl V - Occurs in the coastal, escarpment and tablelands regions of NSW. More 4 records within Possible. May fly over common in the north and absent from the western tablelands and 10km (OEH 2012a) the study area on further west. Inhabits tall, moist eucalypt forests and rainforests, and are occasion to use strongly associated with sheltered gullies, particularly those with tall habitat or forage. rainforest understorey. Roosts in tree hollows, amongst dense foliage in

gullies or in caves, recesses or ledges of cliffs or banks. Nest in large (>40cm wide, 100cm deep) tree hollows in unlogged/unburnt gullies within 100m of streams or in caves.

Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern V - Occurs over tropical and subtropical seas and islands around northern 1 record within 10km Possible. May fly over NSW. Occasionally seen along coastal NSW, especially after cyclones. (OEH 2012a) the study area on Breeds in sand or coral scrapes on offshore islands and cays including occasion to use Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands. habitat or forage.

Pyrroholaemus Speckled Warbler V - Within NSW most frequently reported from the hills and tablelands of 1 record within 10km Possible. May fly over sagittatus the Great Dividing Range, rarely from the coast. Inhabits a wide range of (OEH 2012a) the study area on Eucalyptus-dominated communities with a grassy understorey, a sparse occasion to use shrub layer, often on rocky ridges or in gullies. Sedentary and requires habitat or forage. large, relatively undisturbed remnants to persist in an area. Forages on

the ground for seeds and insects, and nests in a slight hollow in the ground or at the base of a low dense plant.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite V - Occurs across NSW, resident in north, northeast and along west-flowing 1 record within 10km Possible. May fly over rivers. Summer breeding migrant to southeast of state. Inhabits a variety (OEH 2012a) the study area on of habitats including woodlands and open forests, with preference for occasion to use timbered watercourses. Favours productive forests on the coastal plain, habitat or forage. box-ironbark-gum woodlands on the inland slopes, and Coolibah/River

Red Gum on the inland plains. In Sydney area nests in mature living trees within 100 m of ephemeral/permanent watercourse. Large home range > 100 km2.

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot E E Migratory, travelling to the mainland from March to October. Breeds in 1 record within 10km Possible suitable Tasmania from September to January. On the mainland, it mostly occurs (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting in the southeast foraging on winter flowering eucalypts and lerps, with habitat present in Predicted to occur records of the species between Adelaide and Brisbane. Principal over- native vegetation within 10km winter habitat is box-ironbark communities on the inland slopes and throughout study (DSEWPaC 2012a) plains. Eucalyptus robusta, Corymbia maculata and C. gummifera area. dominated coastal forests are also important habitat.

Neophema Turquoise Parrot V - Occurs from coast to inland slopes. In coastal area, most common 2 records within Possible in intact pulchella between Hunter and Northern Rivers, and further south in S Coast. 10km (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the Inhabits open eucalypt woodlands and forests, typically with a grassy study area. understorey. Favours edges of woodlands adjoining grasslands or Typically known from timbered creek lines and ridges. Feeds on the seeds of native and open forest types introduced grasses and other herbs. Grasslands and open areas provide farther west, but important foraging habitat for this species while woodlands provide potential foraging important roosting and breeding habitat. Nests in tree hollows, logs or habitats present. posts from August to December.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Daphoenositta Varied Sittella V - Sedentary, occurs across NSW from the coast to the far west. Inhabits 18 records within Possible suitable chrysoptera eucalypt forests and woodlands, especially rough-barked species and 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting mature smooth-barked gums with dead branches, mallee and Acacia habitat present in

woodland. Sensitive to habitat isolation and loss of structural complexity, intact native and adversely affected by dominance of Noisy Miners. Cleared vegetation agricultural land is potentially a barrier to movement. Builds a cup- throughout study shaped nest of plant fibres and cobwebs in an upright tree fork high in area. the living tree canopy, and often re-uses the same fork or tree in successive years.

Mammals

Petrogale Brush-tailed Rock- E V Occurs from the Shoalhaven north to the Queensland border. Now 1 record within 10km Unlikely. pencillata wallaby mostly extinct west of the Great Dividing Range, except in the (OEH 2012a) No suitable habitat. Warrumbungles and Mt Kaputar. Occurs on rocky escarpments, outcrops Predicted to occur and cliffs with a preference for complex structures with fissures, caves within 10km and ledges facing north. Diet consists of vegetation in adjacent to rocky (DSEWPaC 2012a) areas eating grasses and forbs as well as the foliage and fruits of shrubs and trees.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Miniopterus Eastern Bentwing- V - Generally occurs east of the Great Dividing Range along NSW coast 8 records within Possible in study area. schreibersii bat (Churchill 2008). Inhabits various habitats from open grasslands to 10km (OEH 2012a) No breeding habitat. oceanensis woodlands, wet and dry sclerophyll forests and rainforest. Essentially a Potential roosting and cave bat but may also roost in road culverts, stormwater tunnels and foraging habitat other man-made structures. Only 4 known maternity caves in NSW, near within vegetation Wee Jasper, Bungonia, Kempsey and Texas. Females may travel along roads. May also hundreds of kilometres to the nearest maternal colony (Churchill 2008). forage over residential areas.

Falsistrellus Eastern False V - Occurs on southeast coast and ranges. Prefers tall (>20m) and wet forest 2 records within Possible. May fly over tasmaniensis Pipistrelle with dense understorey. Absent from small remnants, preferring 10km (OEH 2012a) the study area on continuous forest but can move through cleared landscapes and may occasion to use forage in open areas. Roosts in hollow trunks of Eucalypts, underneath habitat or forage. bark or in buildings. Forages in gaps and spaces within forest, with large Potential roost trees foraging range (12km foraging movements recorded) (Churchill 2008, in the irrigation area. Law et al 2008).

Mormopterus Eastern Freetail- V - Occurs in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland east of the Great Dividing 4 records within Possible. May fly over norfolkensis bat Range. Forages in natural and artificial openings in vegetation, typically 10km (OEH 2012a) the study area on within a few kilometres of its roost. Roosts primarily in tree hollows but occasion to use also recorded from man-made structures or under bark (Churchill 2008). habitat or forage. Potential roost trees in the irrigation area.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Cercartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy- V Occurs along the east coast of NSW, and inland to the Pillaga, Dubbo, 3 records within Possible associated possum Parkes and Wagga Wagga. Inhabits range of habitats from coastal heath 10km (OEH 2012a) with foraging and and woodland though open and closed forests, subalpine heath and nesting habitat rainforest (Tulloch and Dickman 1995). Inhabits rainforest, sclerophyll present in native forests and heath. Banksia spp. and myrtaceous shrubs and trees are vegetation favoured food sources and nesting subject sites in drier habitats. Diet throughout study mostly pollen and nectar from Banksia spp., Eucalyptus spp., Callistemon area. spp. and insects (Ward and Turner 2008). Nests in hollows in trees, under the bark of Eucalypts, forks of tea-trees, abandoned bird nests and Xanthorrhoea bases (Ward and Turner 2008, Tulloch and Dickman 2006).

Scoteanax Greater Broad- V - Occurs on the east coast and Great Dividing Range. Inhabits a variety of 4 records within Possible. May fly over rueppellii nosed Bat habitats from woodland to wet and dry sclerophyll forests and 10km (OEH 2012a) the study area on rainforest, also remnant paddock trees and timber-lined creeks, typically occasion to use below 500m asl. Forages in relatively uncluttered areas, using natural or habitat or forage. man-made openings in denser habitats. Usually roosts in tree hollows or Potential roost trees fissures but also under exfoliating bark or in the roofs of old buildings. in the irrigation area. Females congregate in maternal roosts in suitable hollow trees (Hoye

and Richards 2008, Churchill 2008).

Pteropus Grey-headed V V Roosts in camps within 20 km of a regular food source, typically in Predicted to occur Possible No breeding poliocephalus Flying-fox gullies, close to water and in vegetation with a dense canopy. Forages in within 10km habitat. Potential subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests and (DSEWPaC 2012a) roosting and foraging woodlands, heaths, swamps and street trees, particularly in eucalypts, habitat within melaleucas and banksias. Highly mobile with movements largely vegetation along determined by food availability (Eby and Law 2008). Will also forage in roads. May also urban gardens and cultivated fruit crops. forage over residential areas.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Phascolarctos Koala V - Occurs from coast to inland slopes and plains. Restricted to areas of 82 records within Possible associated cinereus preferred feed trees in eucalypt woodlands and forests. Home range 10km (OEH 2012a) with foraging habitat varies depending on habitat quality, from < 2 to several hundred in intact vegetation in hectares. the study area, but less likely to occur in disturbed environments within the proposal footprint.

Chalinolobus Large-eared Pied V V Occurs from the coast to the western slopes of the divide. Largest 4 records within Possible suitable dwyeri Bat numbers of records from sandstone escarpment country in the Sydney 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging and roosting Basin and Hunter Valley (Hoye and Schulz 2008). Roosts in caves and habitat in intact Predicted to occur mines and most commonly recorded from dry sclerophyll forests and vegetation in the within 10km woodlands. An insectivorous species that flies over the canopy or along study area, (DSEWPaC 2012a) creek beds (Churchill 2008). In southern Sydney appears to be largely restricted to the interface between sandstone escarpments and fertile valleys.

Myotis macropus Southern Myotis V - Mainly coastal but may occur inland along large river systems. Usually 17 records within Possible. May fly over associated with permanent waterways at low elevations in 10km (OEH 2012a) the study area on flat/undulating country, usually in vegetated areas. Forages over streams occasion to use and watercourses feeding on fish and insects from the water surface. habitat or forage. Roosts in a variety of habitats including caves, mine shafts, hollow- Potential roost trees bearing trees, stormwater channels, buildings, under bridges and in in the irrigation area. dense foliage, typically in close proximity to water (Campbell 2011).

Breeds November or December (Churchill 2008)

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Potorous Long-Nosed V V Restricted to east of the Great Dividing Range, with annual rainfall >760 Predicted to occur Unlikely. tridactylus Potoroo mm. Inhabits coastal heath and dry and wet sclerophyll forests. Requires within 10km No suitable habitat. relatively thick ground cover and appears restricted to areas of light and (DSEWPaC 2012a) sandy soil (Johnston 2008). Feeds on fungi, roots, tubers, insects and their larvae, and other soft-bodied animals in the soil.

Pseudomys New Holland - V Occurs in disjunct, coastal populations from Tasmania to Queensland. In Predicted to occur Unlikely. novaehollandiae Mouse NSW inhabits a variety of coastal habitats including heathland, within 10km No suitable habitat. woodland, dry sclerophyll forest with a dense shrub layer and vegetated (DSEWPaC 2012a) sand dunes (Wilson and Bradtke 1999). Populations may recolonise/ increase in size in regenerating native vegetation after wildfire, clearing and sandmining. Presence strongly correlated with understorey vegetation density, and high floristic diversity in regenerating heath (Lock and Wilson 1999).

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Dasyurus Spotted-tailed V E Inhabits a range of environments including rainforest, open forest, 7 records within Unlikely. maculatus Quoll woodland, coastal heath and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine 10km (OEH 2012a) All records of this zone to the coastline. Den subject sites are in hollow-bearing trees, Predicted to occur species in the locality fallen logs, small caves, rock crevices, boulder fields and rocky-cliff faces. within 10km are from near Females occupy home ranges of up to 750 ha and males up to 3,500 ha, (DSEWPaC 2012a) Dharawal State which are usually traversed along densely vegetated creek lines. Conservation area approx. 9-10km to the west, which is part of a large tract of vegetation contiguous with the Royal National Park. Habitats at the site are likely to be too fragmented for this species.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Isoodon obesulus Southern Brown E E Occurs mainly in 2 areas: Ku-ring-gai Chase and Garigal National Parks N 1 record within 10km Possible in intact obesulus Bandicoot of Sydney, and far SE NSW including Ben Boyd National Park, East Boyd (OEH 2012a) vegetation in the State Forest, Nadgee Nature Reserve, Nadgee State Forest, South East study area. Predicted to occur Forest and Yambulla State Forest but also occurs between these areas. within 10km Typically known from Inhabits scrubby vegetation, including heath, shrubland, and heathy (DSEWPaC 2012a) coastal habitats, forest and woodland. Often associated with well-drained soils and dry particularly in thick heathland communities, and prefers periodically burnt areas as this heath or grassy increases insect abundance. understorey but potential foraging habitats present.

Petaurus Squirrel Glider V - Occurs along the drier inland slopes as well as coastal habitats. Inhabits 3 records within Possible associated norfolcensis woodland and open forest with a Eucalyptus, Corymbia or Angophora 10km (OEH 2012a) with foraging habitat overstorey and a shrubby understorey of Acacia or Banksia. Key habitat in intact vegetation in components include reliable winter and early-spring flowering Eucalypts, the study area. Banksia or other nectar sources, and hollow-bearing trees for roost and nest sites (van der Ree and Suckling 2008, Quin et al 2004), with social groups moving between multiple hollows. Social groups include one or two adult males and females with offspring, and have home ranges of 5- 10ha within NSW (van der Ree and Suckling 2008, Kavanagh 2004).

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Petaurus australis Yellow-Bellied V - Occurs along the east coast to the western slopes of the Great Dividing 7 records within Possible associated Glider Range. Inhabits a variety of forest types but prefers tall mature eucalypt 10km (OEH 2012a) with foraging habitat forest with high rainfall and rich soils. Relies on large hollow-bearing in intact vegetation in trees for shelter and nesting, with family groups of 2-6 typically denning the study area. together. In southern NSW its preferred habitat at low altitudes is moist gullies and creek flats in mature coastal forests. Mostly feeds on sap, nectar and honeydew.

Reptiles

Hoplocephalus Broad-Headed E V Nocturnal, sheltering in rock crevices and under flat sandstone rocks on 5 records within Possible suitable bungaroides Snake exposed cliff edges during autumn, winter, and spring, moving to 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging habitat shelters in hollows of large trees within 200m of escarpments in present in native Predicted to occur summer. Feeds mostly on geckos and small skinks, and occasionally on vegetation or within 10km frogs and small mammals. adjacent escarpment (DSEWPaC 2012a) throughout study area.

Varanus Rosenberg's V - In NSW mainly occurs on the mid coast region from Wollemi NP to 1 record within 10km Possible suitable rosenbergi Goanna Nowra; the ACT and Goulburn regions and the South-west Slopes. (OEH 2012a) foraging habitat Inhabits coastal heathlands, wet and dry sclerophyll forests, woodlands present in intact and mallee communities. Termite mounds are an important habitat native vegetation feature: eggs are laid in the mounds in summer and incubate till spring, throughout study when the young dig themselves out. Young may return to the mound as area. a refuge for some months, while adults shelter in burrows dug under rocks or logs, or in rock crevices, hollow logs or even rabbit burrows (Sass 2008).

Frogs

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Heleioporus Giant Burrowing V V Occurs along the coast and eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range 6 records within Possible suitable australiacus Frog south from Wollemi National Park. Appears to exist as 2 populations with 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging habitat a 100 km gap in records between Jervis Bay and Eden. Northern present in native Predicted to occur population occurs on sandy soils supporting heath, woodland or open vegetation within 10km forest. Breeds in ephemeral to intermittent streams with persistent throughout study (DSEWPaC 2012a) pools. Only infrequently moves to breeding sites, most commonly found area. on ridges away from creeks, several hundred metres from water.

Litoria aurea Green and Golden E V Formerly occurred from Brunswick Heads to Victoria, but >80% Predicted to occur Possible in moist Bell Frog populations now extinct. within 10km intact vegetation Inhabits marshes, natural and artificial freshwater to brackish wetlands, (DSEWPaC 2012a) although no suitable dams and in stream wetlands. Prefers sites containing cumbungi (Typha wetland habitat in the spp.) or spike rushes (Eleocharis spp.), which are unshaded and have a study area. grassy area and/or rubble as shelter/refuge habitat nearby. Gambusia holbrooki is a key threat as they feed on green and Golden Bell Frog eggs and tadpoles.

Litoria littlejohni Littlejohns V V Occurs on plateaus and eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range south Predicted to occur Unlikely. Treefrog from Watagan State Forest. Occurs along permanent rocky streams with within 10km No suitable habitat. thick fringing vegetation associated with eucalypt woodlands and heaths (DSEWPaC 2012a) among sandstone outcrops, hunting either in shrubs or on the ground.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Pseudophryne Red-crowned V - Restricted to Sydney Basin, from Nowra to Pokolbin and west to Mt 9 records within Possible suitable australis Toadlet Victoria. Inhabits heathland and open woodland on Hawkesbury and 10km (OEH 2012a) foraging habitat Narrabeen Sandstones, within 100 m of ridgelines. Breeds in ephemeral present in native feeder creeks or flooded depressions, requiring unpolluted water vegetation between 5.5 and 6.5 pH. Shelters under rocks, amongst masses of dense throughout study vegetation or leaf litter. Populations restricted to immediate vicinity of area. breeding areas.

Mixophyes balbus Stuttering Frog E V Occurs along the east coast of Australia. Found in rainforest and wet, tall, Predicted to occur Unlikely no suitable open forest. Shelter in deep leaf litter and thick understorey vegetation within 10km moist, undisturbed on the forest floor. Feeds on insects and smaller frogs, breeding in (DSEWPaC 2012a) habitat. streams during summer after heavy rain. Within Sydney Basin bioregion the species is now confined to populations in the Watagan Mountains, the southern Blue Mountains and Macquarie Pass (White 2008a). The species does not occur in areas where the riparian vegetation has been disturbed or where there have been significant upstream human impacts (Mahony et al 1997).

Fish

Macquaria Macquarie Perch V E Occurs in the upper reaches of the Lachlan, Murrumbidgee and Murray Recorded within the Unlikely. australasica Rivers, and in parts of the Hawkesbury and Shoalhaven catchment areas. Wollondilly LGA (DPI No suitable habitat. Inhabits river and lake habitats, especially the upper reaches of rivers 2012a) and their tributaries. Requires clear water with deep, rocky holes and Predicted to occur abundant cover (e.g. aquatic vegetation, woody debris, large boulders within 10km and overhanging banks). Spawns spring and summer in shallow upland (DSEWPaC 2012a) streams or flowing sections of river systems.

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Maccullochella Murray Cod - V Occurs throughout the Murray-Darling Basin. Can live in a wide range of Recorded within the Unlikely. peelii peelii habitats, from clear, rocky streams in the upper western slopes regions Wollondilly LGA (DPI No suitable habitat. of New South Wales to the slow flowing, turbid rivers and billabongs of 2012a) the western plains. Generally, they are found in waters up to 5m deep

and in sheltered areas with cover from rocks, timber or overhanging banks. The presence of wood debris has been shown to be the primary factor determining Murray cod presence (Kearney and Kildea 2001).

Bidyanus bidyanus Silver Perch V - In NSW now absent from much of their former range across the Murray- Recorded within the Unlikely. Darling. Most abundant remaining natural population occurs in the Wollondilly LGA (DPI No suitable habitat. central Murray River downstream of Yarrawonga Weir as well as several 2012a) of its anabranches and tributaries including the Edward River - an

anabranch of the Murray River that flows through Deniliquin, and the Murrumbidgee River. Prefer fast-flowing, open waters, especially where there are rapids and races, however they will also inhabit warm, sluggish water with cover provided by large woody debris and reeds. Information on habitat preferences is scarce for this species (NSW DPI 2006a)

Maccullochella Trout Cod E E There are 3 known breeding populations in NSW: a naturally occurring Recorded within the Unlikely. macquariensis population below Yarrawonga Weir in the Murray River, a stocked Wollondilly LGA (DPI No suitable habitat. population in the Murrumbidgee River at Narrandera and a translocated 2012a) population in Cataract Dam in coastal NSW. There are stocked (breeding

unconfirmed) populations within the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Macquarie Rivers, and in Talbingo Dam in Koscisuko NP (NSW DPI 2006b). The species occurs in a range of habitats, but is strongly associated with the presence of woody debris and snags (NSW DPI 2006b).

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Scientific Name Common Name TSC/F EPBC Act Habitat Association Nature of Record Likelihood of M Act occurrence

Invertebrates

Meridolum Cumberland Plain E - Occurs within a small area of the Cumberland Plain, from Richmond and 2 records within Possible associated corneovirens Land Snail Windsor to Picton. 10km (OEH 2012a) with foraging habitat Found primarily under litter of bark, leaves and logs, or in loose soil in intact vegetation in around grass clumps within Cumberland Plain Woodland. Has also been the study area found under rubbish. Feeds on fungus. During periods of drought can burrow into the soil to escape the dry conditions.

All information in this table is taken from NSW OEH and Commonwealth DSEWPaC Threatened Species profiles (DEC 2005, DSEWPaC 2011b) unless otherwise stated. The codes used in this table are: CE – Critically endangered; E – endangered; V – vulnerable; EP – endangered Population; CEEC – Critically endangered Ecological Community; EEC – endangered Ecological Community.

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Appendix C TSC Act Assessment of Significance

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Assessment of Significance Section 5A of the EP&A Act lists seven factors that must be taken into account in the determination of the significance of potential impacts of an activity on ‘threatened species, populations or ecological communities (or their habitats)’ listed under the TSC Act and FM Act. The ‘7 part test’ is used to determine whether an activity is ‘likely’ to impose ‘a significant effect’ on threatened biota and thus whether a species impact statement (SIS) is required. Should the 7 part test conclude that a significant effect is likely, an SIS must be prepared. A 7 part test has been prepared for:

 Bargo Geebung (Persoonia bargoensis) which is listed as an endangered species under the TSC Act

 Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest listed as an endangered ecological community under the TSC Act.

 the Southern Myotis listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.

 the Eastern False Pipistrelle listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.

 the Greater Broad- nosed Bat listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.

 the Eastern Freetail Bat listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Persoonia bargoensis

a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

There are three Persoonia bargoensis in the proposal footprint. These three individuals are located in vegetation immediately between the fence line along the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and Remembrance Driveway. Impacts on these three individuals would be avoided by ensuring that the construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP are restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area. Underboring may also be considered. The proposal would not lead to a decrease in the size or viability of the local population of the species. The proposal would not remove any occupied or otherwise important habitat for the species. Construction within the proposal footprint would not create any barriers to pollinators or otherwise disrupt the breeding cycle of a population of the species. Therefore the proposal would not have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species.

b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable to this threatened species.

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Persoonia bargoensis

c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: (i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction (ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable to this threatened species.

d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: (i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

Direct impacts on Persoonia bargoensis would be avoided by ensuring that the construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP are restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area. The proposal would not remove any occupied habitat for the species. Sub-surface irrigation with treated effluent could potentially result in nutrient enrichment of soils and groundwater leading to adverse impacts on Persoonia bargoensis within the irrigation area and downstream. The Land Capability Assessment of the proposed irrigation area assessed potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health (BMT WBM, 2012a). Wastewater derived nutrients and pathogens are expected to be fully attenuated within the site (BMT WBM, 2012a). Based on the outcomes of this assessment the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a).The potential for adverse impacts on Persoonia bargoensis habitat within the irrigation area or downstream is considered to be minor.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

The construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP would be restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area. Underboring may also be considered. As a result, the proposal would not fragment or isolate any habitat.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

As described in part i) direct impacts on Persoonia bargoensis would be avoided through the use of the existing access track and cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area to construct the transfer main and access road to the WRP. Underboring may also be considered. The proposal footprint contains only modified and degraded habitat that would have little value for colonisation by the local population of the species.

e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Persoonia bargoensis

There is no critical habitat listed for this species on either the OEH or DSEWPC registers of critical habitat.

f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for this species. The proposal has been intentionally designed to avoid occupied habitat for the species and the small area of potential habitat to be removed would have little value for the local population and is unlikely to interfere with the recovery of the community.

g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

The following KTPs have the potential to affect the local population of the species:

 Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi There is a minor risk that Phtyophthora cinnamomi could be introduced via construction vehicles and infect habitat adjoining the proposal footprint. This risk would be reduced through the implementation of mitigation measures outline in Section 6.

 Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses Exotic perennial grasses are present throughout the study area. The proposal could potentially increase their extent through removal of native vegetation and soil disturbance during construction. Mitigation measures in the CEMP for the proposal would include weed management measures to reduce the risk the movement of exotic grasses into habitat outside of the proposal disturbance footprint. The proposal would not significantly increase the operation of these, or any other KTPs.

Conclusion of Assessment of Significance

On consideration of the above criteria, the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative effect on the local population of Persoonia bargoensis.

Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest

a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable to this EEC.

b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable to this EEC.

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest

c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: (i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction The proposal would involve the permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of partially cleared and modified SSTF for construction of bore locations at the northern end of Great Southern Road (see Figure 1). The 0.01 hectares of SSTF that would be permanently removed comprises around 0.001% of the estimated area of the SSTF community in the locality (around 1152.39 hectares, based on Tozer (2010) vegetation mapping). The impact area would comprise a very minor reduction in the extent of SSTF and would not place the local occurrence of the ecological community at risk of extinction.

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest

The proposal would involve the permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF.

SSTF in the proposal disturbance footprint has been modified by weed infestation and previous clearing, easement maintenance and other utilities and would contain a very small proportion of the individuals and species within the local occurrence of SSTF. The 0.01 hectares to be removed comprises the modified edge of larger stand. Mitigation measures are proposed to reduce the potential for edge effects to result in any substantial further modification of retained vegetation at this location. During the construction and operational phases, the proposal has the potential to result in the further modification of 3.75 hectares of highly modified SSTF within the preferred irrigation area through edge effects, sedimentation and erosion and nutrient enrichment. This vegetation is already periodically slashed and fragmented due to agricultural land use. The environmental management measures and safeguards proposed in Section 6 are likely to mitigate against any substantial further modification of the SSTF within the irrigation area. Notably the grassed swales would be position outside of remnant SSTF and would serve to intercept surface water flows and avoid indirect impacts arising from erosion or sedimentation. The Land Capability Assessment of the proposed irrigation area assessed potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health (BMT WBM, 2012a). Wastewater derived nutrients and pathogens are expected to be fully attenuated within the site under worst case conditions (BMT WBM, 2012a). Based on the outcomes of this assessment the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a).The potential for adverse impacts on SSTF within the irrigation area and adjoining habitat is considered to be minor. There is a further 1152.39 hectares of SSTF in the locality that would not be disturbed based on Tozer (2010) vegetation mapping. Local populations of the species that make up the EEC would persist in the extensive areas of undisturbed SSTF surrounding the proposal footprint. Given the small extent of disturbance and proposed mitigation measures to protect retained adjoining vegetation, the proposal would not substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: (i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest

The proposal would result in the permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF within the bore locations at the end of Great Southern Road. The 0.01 ha of SSTF to be removed represents 0.001 % of the 1152.39 hectares SSTF in the locality and would result in a very minor reduction of the community and its habitat. The 3.75 hectares of SSTF within the irrigation area is to be avoided and mitigation measures implemented to avoid any indirect impacts on the vegetation at this locality. Adjoining SSTF and stands within and adjoining the irrigation area are already modified and are not expected to be substantially further modified as a result of the proposal given proposed impact mitigation measures. Of particular relevance in this regard will be the implementation of erosion and sediment controls, and weed management measures. Sub-surface irrigation with treated effluent could potentially result in nutrient enrichment of soils and groundwater leading to adverse impacts on the SSTF within the irrigation area and downstream. The Land Capability Assessment of the proposed irrigation area assessed potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health (BMT WBM, 2012a). Wastewater derived nutrients and pathogens are expected to be fully attenuated within the site under worst case conditions (BMT WBM, 2012a). Based on the outcomes of this assessment the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a).The potential for adverse impacts on SSTF within the irrigation area and adjoining habitat is considered to be minor.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

The permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF within the bore location would not isolate or fragment any habitat because it is located at the edge of a patch of SSTF where it adjoins disturbed, cleared land. The SSTF within the irrigation area is already periodically slashed and fragmented due to agricultural land use. The proposed works would avoid SSTF and would not further fragment or isolate habitat.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The 0.01 hectares of SSTF within the bore locations at the end of Great Southern Road is already modified and partially cleared with a mix of mature and small trees, moderate weed infestation, and moderate native species richness with high regeneration. It is located on the edge of the local patch of SSTF and so it would have limited value as a fauna movement corridor or source of plant propagules. The 3.75 hectares of SSTF within the irrigation area would not be removed or modified as described above. There is a further 1152.39 hectares in the locality, based on Tozer (2010) vegetation mapping. In this context, the habitat to be removed or modified would have minimal importance to the long term survival of SSTF in the locality.

e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

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Section 5 EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance for Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest

There is no critical habitat listed for this ecological community on either the OEH or DSEWPC registers of critical habitat.

f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has yet been prepared for this community. The proposal has been intentionally designed to avoid stands of SSTF where possible and the small area that will be unavoidably impacted, comprising 0.01 hectares of disturbed edge vegetation is unlikely to interfere with the recovery of the community.

g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

The proposal will make a contribution to the following KTPs: x ‘Clearance of native vegetation’ through the permanent suppression of mid and overstorey species within 0.01 hectares of SSTF. x ‘Removal of dead wood and dead trees’ through the removal of up to eight trees. Given the magnitude of impacts this would comprise a very minor increase in the operation of these KTPs and would not impose a significant effect on SSTF or any other native biota. Mitigation measures, to be implemented as part of the CEMP will reduce the potential for the Proposal to contribute to the following KTPS in the study area:

 Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi There is a minor risk that Phtyophthora cinnamomi could be introduced via construction vehicles and infect SSTF vegetation adjoining the proposal footprint. This risk would be reduced through the implementation of mitigation measures outline in Section 6.

 Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses Exotic perennial grasses are present throughout the study area. The proposal could potentially increase their extent through removal of native vegetation and soil disturbance during construction. Mitigation measures in the CEMP for the proposal would include weed management measures to reduce the risk the movement of exotic grasses into SSTF outside of the proposal disturbance footprint.

Conclusion of Assessment of Significance

On consideration of the above criteria, the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative effect on the local occurrence of SSTF.

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Assessment of Significance for Hollow-roosting Bats

The Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and East Freetail Bat are listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act. The Southern Myotis is usually associated with permanent waterways at low elevations in flat/undulating country, usually in vegetated areas. It roosts in a variety of habitats including caves, mine shafts, hollow-bearing trees, stormwater channels, buildings, under bridges and in dense foliage, typically in close proximity to water (Campbell 2011). The Eastern False Pipistrelle typically occurs in wet forest with dense understorey. It roosts in hollow trunks of Eucalypts, underneath bark or in buildings and forages in gaps and spaces within forest, with large foraging range (12km foraging movements recorded) (Churchill 2008, Law et al 2008). The Greater Broad Nosed Bat forages across a range of habitats, including those with and without trees, from wet and dry sclerophyll forest, open woodland, also remnant paddock trees and timber-lined creeks. It roosts communally in large tree hollows and buildings but also under exfoliating bark (Churchill 2008). The East Coast Freetail Bat occurs in dry forests and woodlands. It shows a preference for foraging in open spaces in these habitats, as well as over waterways. It roosts mainly in tree hollows but will also roost under bark or in man-made structures (Churchill, 2008).

Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and East Freetail Bat (Vulnerable) a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, The Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and East Freetail Bat may forage in the study area and could den or roost in hollow-bearing trees within the proposal footprint. The proposal would result in the loss of up to eight hollow-bearing trees within the footprint for the proposed Water Recycling Plant (WRP) and the further modification of around 20 hectares of highly modified potential foraging habitat within the proposed land application area area (see Figures 1 and 3). The trees to be removed may provide a potential foraging and roosting habitat for these species. A strip of trees will be retained along the northern boundary of the irrigation area and within exclusion zones surrounding drainage lines. There are extensive patches of better quality and more extensive patches of native vegetation present in the locality, including immediately to the north of the irrigation area. The proposal footprint is unlikely to contain any specific habitat resources that are important to the life cycle of local populations of these species. Given the small area and limited value of potential habitat within the proposal footprint (refer part c) the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of these species such that a viable local population of the species are likely to be placed at risk of extinction. b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, Not applicable to these threatened species. c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: (i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or (ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, Not applicable to these threatened species. d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: (i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

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The proposal would result in the loss of potential breeding habitat, including up to eight mature trees and stags within the WRP footprint. (ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and Vegetation within the proposal footprint has been partially cleared and fragmented. The proposal would further fragment habitat by removing potential breeding habitat, including up to eight mature trees and stags within the WRP footprint. These microbat species would readily traverse the gap in habitat created by the proposal with a minimal increase in the risk or energy costs of travelling between patches of suitable habitat. (iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality Up to eight mature trees and stags, including hollow-bearing trees would be removed. These trees provide foraging and shelter habitat as well as potential diurnal roosts and breeding sites. Hollow-bearing trees in larger patches of higher quality habitat elsewhere in the locality would have greater value for local populations of these species. The habitat resources that would be removed are unlikely to be important for the long-term survival of these species in the locality. Despite the removal of some trees the irrigation area would still be able to function as a patch of potentially suitable habitat for these bat species. e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly) No critical habitat has been listed for these species. f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan There are no recovery plans for these species. The OEH has identified a number of priority actions for these species which generally relate to retention of roosting/denning and foraging habitat. The proposal would result in the loss of up to eight hollow-bearing trees as a result of the construction of the WRP which comprise potential foraging and breeding resources. Therefore the proposal is not consistent with the priority actions identified for these species. As described in part d) the magnitude of impacts (and thus inconsistency with these priority actions) is very low. g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process The proposal will make a contribution to the following KTPs of relevance to these threatened bats: x ‘Clearance of native vegetation’ through the permanent suppression of mid and overstorey species within 0.01 hectares of SSTF. x ‘Removal of dead wood and dead trees’ through the removal of up to eight trees. Given the magnitude of impacts this would comprise a very minor increase in the operation of these KTPs and would not impose a significant effect on SSTF or any other native biota.

Conclusion of Assessment of Significance The proposal is not likely to result in a significant impact on the Southern Myotis, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and Eastern Freetail Bat, pursuant to section 5A of the EP&A Act, given the small area of habitat that would be impacted and the maintenance of habitat resources and habitat connectivity in the study area.

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Appendix D EPBC Act Assessment of Significance

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EPBC Act - Assessment of Significance Persoonia bargoensis (vulnerable species)

According to the DEWHA (2009) Significant Impact Guidelines, an action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will: i). lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species;

There are three Persoonia bargoensis in the proposal footprint. These three individuals are located in vegetation immediately between the fence line along the eastern boundary of the irrigation area and Remembrance Driveway. Impacts on these three individuals would be avoided by ensuring that the construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP are restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area . The proposal would not lead to a decrease in a population of the species. ii). reduce the area of occupancy of an important population;

As described in part i) direct impacts on Persoonia bargoensis would be avoided through the use of the existing access track and cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area to construct the transfer main and access road to the WRP. Underboring may also be considered. The proposal would not remove any occupied habitat for the species. Further, the proposal footprint contains only modified and degraded habitat that would have little value for colonisation by the local population of the species. Therefore the proposal would not reduce the area of occupancy of a population. iii). fragment an existing important population into two or more populations;

The construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP would be restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area. As a result, the proposal would not fragment or isolate any habitat. iv). adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

There is no critical habitat listed for this species on either the OEH or DSEWPC registers of critical habitat. The area of potential Persoonia bargoensis habitat to be removed for the proposal comprises only disturbed vegetation on the edge of a larger patches adjoining cleared land. The proposal would not remove, modify or fragment any habitat critical to the survival of the species. v). disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population; The proposal would not remove any individuals of the species. The proposal would not remove any occupied or otherwise important habitat for the species. Construction within the proposal footprint would not create any barriers to pollinators or otherwise disrupt the breeding cycle of a population of the species. vi). modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline;

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EPBC Act - Assessment of Significance Persoonia bargoensis (vulnerable species)

As described in part i) direct impacts on Persoonia bargoensis would be avoided by ensuring that the construction footprint for the transfer main and access road to the WRP would be restricted to the footprint of the existing access track or cleared agricultural land in the irrigation area. Underboring may also be considered. The proposal would not remove any occupied habitat for the species. Further, the proposal footprint contains only modified and degraded habitat that would have little value for colonisation by the local population of the species. Therefore the proposal would not modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of any habitat for the species. vii). result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat;

The Persoonia bargoensis habitat within the proposal footprint is already subject to varying degrees of weed infestation. Mitigation measures outlined in the CEMP (section 6.2.2) would reduce the risk of the spread of weed propagules during clearing and other construction activities and the proposal is unlikely to assist weed infestation in adjoining native vegetation. viii). introduce disease that may cause the species to decline; or

The proposal would not directly affect any occupied habitat for the species. Mitigation measures outlined in the CEMP (section 6.2.2) would reduce the risk of the spread of pathogens during clearing and other construction activities and the proposal is unlikely to introduce disease into adjoining native vegetation. The LCA concluded that the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a) that could increase the prevalence or virulence of plant pathogens. ix). interfere substantially with the recovery of an species.

No Persoonia bargoensis individuals or occupied habitat would be affected by the proposal.

Revegetation and rehabilitation actions are recommended for inclusion within the CEMP (section 6.2.2). Revegetated areas would, in the longer term, reduce the degree of edge effects, provide habitat resources for native biota and reduce the degree of weed infestation in the locality. Given the small area and limited value of habitat to be affected and the large areas of Persoonia bargoensis habitat within adjacent conservation lands it is unlikely that the proposal would interfere with the recovery of this species.

 Conclusion of Assessment of Significance:

On consideration of the above criteria, the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative impact on the local occurrence of Persoonia bargoensis.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

EPBC Act - Assessment of Significance Shale-Sandstone Transition Forest (endangered ecological community)

According to the DEWHA (2009) Significant Impact Guidelines, an action is likely to have a significant impact on a threatened ecological community if there is a real chance or possibility that it will: x). Reduce the extent of an ecological community

The 0.01 hectares of SSTF that would be permanently removed comprises around 0.001% of the estimated area of the SSTF community in the locality (around 1152.39 hectares, based on Tozer (2010) vegetation mapping). The impact area would comprise a very minor reduction in the extent of SSTF and would not place the local occurrence of the ecological community at risk of extinction. xi). fragment or increase fragmentation of an ecological community, for example by clearing vegetation for roads or transmission lines

The permanent removal of 0.01 hectares of SSTF within the bore location would not isolate or fragment any habitat because it is located at the edge of a patch of SSTF where it adjoins disturbed, cleared land. The SSTF within the irrigation area is already periodically slashed and fragmented due to agricultural land use. The proposal would avoid SSTF in this area and would not further fragment or isolate habitat. xii). adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of an ecological community

There is no critical habitat listed for this ecological community on either the OEH or DSEWPC registers of critical habitat. The area of SSTF to be removed for the proposal comprises the disturbed edge of a larger stand adjoining cleared land. It represents only 0.001% of the community in the locality and is not considered critical to the survival of the ecological community. xiii). modify or destroy abiotic (non-living) factors (such as water, nutrients, or soil) necessary for an ecological community’s survival, including reduction of groundwater levels, or substantial alteration of surface water drainage patterns The proposal is not expected to modify or destroy abiotic factors necessary for the ecological community’s survival. SSTF adjoining the vegetation to be removed for the bore locations and stands within and adjoining the irrigation area are already modified and are not expected to be substantially further modified as a result of the proposal given proposed impact mitigation measures. Sub-surface irrigation with treated effluent could potentially result in nutrient enrichment of soils and groundwater leading to adverse impacts on the SSTF within the irrigation area and downstream. The LCA of the proposed irrigation area assessed potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality, hydrology, land and ecosystem health (BMT WBM, 2012a). Wastewater derived nutrients and pathogens are expected to be fully attenuated within the site under worst case conditions (BMT WBM, 2012a). Based on the outcomes of this assessment the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a). The potential for adverse impacts on SSTF within the irrigation area and adjoining habitat is considered to be minor. The environmental management measures and safeguards proposed in Section 6 are likely to mitigate against any substantial further modification of the SSTF within the irrigation area. Notably the grassed swales would be position outside of remnant SSTF and would serve to intercept surface water flows and avoid indirect impacts arising from erosion or sedimentation.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

EPBC Act - Assessment of Significance Shale-Sandstone Transition Forest (endangered ecological community) xiv). cause a substantial change in the species composition of an occurrence of an ecological community, including causing a decline or loss of functionally important species, for example through regular burning or flora or fauna harvesting The proposal is not expected to cause a substantial change in the species composition of an occurrence of an ecological community. As noted above, SSTF adjoining the vegetation to be removed for the bore locations is already modified and is not expected to be substantially further modified as a result of the proposal given proposed impact mitigation measures to control potential erosion and sedimentation and weeds. SSTF within the irrigation area is highly modified, consisting of a moderate condition canopy with no understory due to operational slashing for agricultural purposes. The topsoil is severely disturbed as a result and native regeneration is low. Mitigation measures are to be implemented to ensure the construction and operation of the irrigation area does not have an adverse impact on this or adjoining vegetation. The local occurrence of the EEC is likely to comprise many thousands of individuals of the composite species within hundreds of hectares of occupied habitat in Bargo State Recreation Area and elsewhere in the locality. The small area that would be affected by the proposal is unlikely to contain an ecologically significant proportion of the local populations of any of the component species within the EEC. In this context, the area of the small, area of modified vegetation to be affected is likely to make a minor contribution to recruitment and maintenance of populations of component species within the local occurrence of the EEC. xv). cause a substantial reduction in the quality or integrity of an occurrence of an ecological community, including, but not limited to: xvi). assisting invasive species, that are harmful to the listed ecological community, to become established, or

As stated in part v), the SSTF within the proposal footprint is already subject to varying degrees of weed infestation. Mitigation measures outlined in the CEMP (section 6.2.2) would reduce the risk of the spread of weed propagules during clearing and other construction activities and the proposal is unlikely to assist weed infestation in adjoining native vegetation. xvii). causing regular mobilisation of fertilisers, herbicides or other chemicals or pollutants into the ecological community which kill or inhibit the growth of species in the ecological community, or There is potential for accidental chemical and fuel spills to occur during construction which may result in localised contamination of soil and indirectly affect SSTF within the proposal footprint and adjoining areas of native vegetation. Appropriate precautions would be implemented as necessary for encountering contamination and are outlined in the mitigation measures in Section 6.

The LCA concluded that the proposed irrigation is unlikely to result in any adverse effects on soil and water in the study area or in receiving environments downstream (BMT WBM, 2012a).The potential for adverse impacts on SSTF within the study area and adjoining habitat, is considered to be minor. xviii). interfere with the recovery of an ecological community.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

EPBC Act - Assessment of Significance Shale-Sandstone Transition Forest (endangered ecological community)

The proposal has been designed to avoid stands of SSTF where possible and the small area that will be unavoidably impacted, comprising 0.01 hectares of disturbed edge vegetation, is unlikely to interfere with the recovery of the community.

Revegetation and rehabilitation actions are recommended for inclusion within the CEMP (section 6.2.2). Revegetated areas would, in the longer term, reduce the degree of edge effects, provide habitat resources for native biota and reduce the degree of weed infestation in the locality.

Given the small area of habitat to be impacted and the large areas of SSTF within adjacent conservation lands it is unlikely that the proposal would interfere with the recovery of this species.

 Conclusion of Assessment of Significance:

On consideration of the above criteria, the proposal is unlikely to have a significant negative impact on the local occurrence of SSTF.

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment

GHD

133 Castlereagh St Sydney NSW 2000 - T: 2 9239 7100 F: 2 9239 7199 E: [email protected]

© GHD 2013 This document is and shall remain the property of GHD. The document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

Document Status

Rev Reviewer Approved for Issue Author No. Name Signature Name Signature Date 0 N Hansen, B J Tipping P Carson 15/01/13 Harrington

21/21291/184033 Bargo Wastewater Scheme Ecological Impact Assessment A part of BMT in Energy and Environment

Ecological Assessment of Proposed Land Treatment System for Bargo

R.B19234.001.03_BargoStreamEvaluation December 2012

Ecological Assessment of Proposed Land Treatment System for Bargo

Offices

Brisbane Denver Mackay Melbourne Prepared For: BMT WBM Newcastle Newcastle Perth Sydney Prepared By: BMT WBM Pty Ltd (Member of the BMT group of companies) Vancouver

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DOCUMENT CONTROL SHEET

BMT WBM Pty Ltd BMT WBM Pty Ltd Document : R.B19234.001.02_BargoStreamEvaluation Level 8, 200 Creek Street Brisbane 4000 Project Manager : Suanne Richards Queensland Australia PO Box 203 Spring Hill 4004

Tel: +61 7 3831 6744 Fax: + 61 7 3832 3627 Client : BMT WBM Newcastle ABN 54 010 830 421

www.bmtwbm.com.au Client Contact: Ben Asquith

Client Reference

Title : Ecological Assessment of Potential Irrigation Sites at Bargo, NSW Author : Suanne Richards, Darren Richardson and Ben Asquith Synopsis : This report provides an ecological assessment of two proposed irrigation sites at Bargo NSW.

REVISION/CHECKING HISTORY

REVISION DATE OF ISSUE CHECKED BY ISSUED BY NUMBER 0 05/11/2012 DLR SR 1 04/12/12 2 05/12/12

3 13/12/12

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0 1 2 3 BMT WBM Newcastle PDF PDF PDF PDF BMT WBM File PDF PDF PDF PDF BMT WBM Library PDF PDF PDF PDF

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CONTENTS Contents i

1 INTRODUCTION 1-1

2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 2-1 2.1 Regional Context 2-1 2.1.1 Bioregion 2-1 2.1.2 Geology 2-1 2.1.3 Vegetation 2-1 2.2 Study Sites 2-3 2.2.1 Vegetation and Aquatic Habitats 2-3 2.2.2 Threatened Species and Endangered Ecological Communities 2-6

3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF PROPOSED IRRIGATION SITE 3-1 3.1 Current Threatening Processes 3-1 3.2 Potential Impacts of the Proposed Irrigation Scheme 3-1 3.2.1 Summary of Estimated Additional Baseflow 3-1 3.2.2 Potential for Impacts on Aquatic and Terrestrial Ecology 3-3 3.3 Legislative Requirements 3-4 3.3.1 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 3-4 3.3.2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 3-4

4 SUMMARY 4-1

5 REFERENCES 5-1

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1 INTRODUCTION

Sydney Water is investigating the feasibility of purchasing a property at Bargo, NSW for the subsurface irrigation of highly treated effluent. The site drains to the north and east to two first order streams dissecting Hawkesbury and Mittagong Sandstone.

Initial hydrologic assessments suggest there may be a small increase in baseflow from the site during winter / wetter weather as a result of the proposed effluent management system. It is anticipated the additional baseflow will be fairly consistent given the effluent is being applied at a constant low rate, spread over 24 hours.

BMT WBM was requested to undertake a preliminary assessment of potential ecological issues associated with the proposed effluent irrigation scheme on ecological values of receiving environments. Aquatic ecologist Dr Darren Richardson, terrestrial ecologist Suanne Richards and environmental scientist Ben Asquith undertook a site inspection of the two potential irrigation sites on the 30th August 2012 that aimed to assess the potential ecological values and integrity of habitats potentially affected by additional baseflow created by irrigated effluent. This report presents the findings of this site inspection, provides preliminary advice on the potential for the irrigation scheme to cause potential impacts to ecological values and provides advice for more detailed ecological assessments that may be required to satisfy the relevant NSW agencies.

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Figure 1-1 Preliminary Stream Assessments: Bargo

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2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Regional Context

2.1.1 Bioregion

The study site lies within the western limits of the Sydney Basin Bioregion (Thackway and Cresswell, 1995) which encompasses the dissected sandstone plateaux that extend from Ulladulla to the Hunter Valley. The bioregion is characterised by skeletal sandy soils which support extensive sclerophyllous woodlands and dry open forests. Shale and other fine-grained sediments are found on the undulating plains outside of the sandstone plateaux. The climate for the region is warm and dry with an average annual rainfall of 901-950mm.

2.1.2 Geology

The study site occurs on the margins of the Cumberland Plain in close proximity to the sandstone/shale boundary. The creeks of the study area are based on sediments of Mittagong Formation. This geology generates coarse-grained sandy soils that are quite infertile, but more fertile than the surrounding Hawkesbury Sandstone, and are often shallow and rocky.

2.1.3 Vegetation

Since European settlement of the fertile Cumberland Plain, the native vegetation has been extensively cleared, initially for agriculture and more recently for residential, commercial and industrial land uses. The native vegetation has been cleared to such an extent that very little of the pre- European distribution remains and many of the plant communities remaining are now considered under threat of extinction.

The study area supports large areas of remnant vegetation which has been partially cleared for agriculture, mining and rural residential development. Based on vegetation mapping prepared by Belik et al. (1997), the Bargo River Catchment comprises approximately 20% open forest, approximately 45% woodland and approximately 35% cleared land. Remaining vegetation communities area dominated by E. haemastoma (Scribbly Gum), E. gummifera (Red Bloodwood), E. globoidea(White Stringybark), E. crebra(Narrow-leavedIronbark), and E. punctata (Grey Gum).

Based on the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) vegetation mapping and site inspections, three broad vegetation communities in varying condition and conservation value occur at the irrigation site and within the receiving catchments downstream. These include Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence) and Upper Georges River Sandstone Woodland on the upper slopes with Riparian Scrub dominating the waterways.

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2.1.3.1 Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence)

Approximately 27.9% of the pre-clearing extent of this community remains in NSW and the NSW Scientific Committee has listed it as an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

The community is dominated by Eucalyptus punctata and E. crebra, with E. fibrosa, Corymbia gummifera and Syncarpia glomulifera occurring less frequently (NSWNPWS, 2002). A smaller tree stratum is usually present and is most often dominated by Allocasuarina littoralis, Syncarpia glomulifera, Persoonia linearis and Acacia decurrens (NSWNPWS, 2002). The community usually has a well-developed shrub layer dominated by Kunzea ambigua, Persoonia linearis and Bursaria spinosa, with Jacksonia scoparia becoming more common with increasing sandstone influence (NSWNPWS, 2002). The ground stratum is dominated by Entolasia stricta, Themeda australis, Stipa pubescens, Lepidosperma laterale, Aristida vagans and Pomax umbellate (NSWNPWS, 2002).

2.1.3.2 Upper Georges River Sandstone Woodland

This community is dominated by Eucalyptus punctata and Corymbia gummifera with lower abundance of E. oblonga (NSWNPWS, 2002). Allocasuarina littoralis is frequently present, particularly on the upper slopes of gullies where it forms a small tree layer (NSWNPWS, 2002). Diverse shrub and ground strata are always present typically comprising Acacia ulicifolia, A. terminalis, A. linifolia, Persoonia linearis, Leptospermun trinervium and Exocarpus strictus (NSWNPWS, 2002). The ground stratum is often dominated by grass species such as Entolasia stricta,Themeda australis, Stipa pubescens Aristida vagans and Danthonia linkii (NSWNPWS, 2002). Other species frequently recorded in the ground stratum include Dianella revoluta, Pomax umbellata, Lepidosperma laterale, Cyathochaeta diandra, Lomandra multiflora and Lomandra cylindrical (NSWNPWS, 2002).

2.1.3.3 Riparian Scrub

Riparian Scrub in the region is dominated by Ceratopetalum apetalum and Tristaniopsis laurina with Angophora costata frequently present along the banks of smaller streams (NSWNPWS, 2002). Eucalyptus pilularis may also occur. Common shrub species include Lomatia myricoides, Acacia obtusifolia, Leptospermum morrisoni and Grevillea oleoides (NSWNPWS, 2002). The shrub stratum is locally dense, but shrub patches are frequently interspersed between rock pavement, recent deposits of sediment and water (NSWNPWS, 2002). Groundcovers include Schoenus melanostachys, Sticherus flabellatus and Todea barbara and water plants such as Triglochin procerum occur intermittently (NSWNPWS, 2002).

Riparian vegetation communities are important as habitats for species that only occur on riverbanks with deep alluvial soils close to the water table, and play a significant role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems and riverbank stability. The riparian vegetation of the Cumberland Plain is highly significant as a wildlife corridor and includes threatened species, such as Camden White gum (Eucalyptus benthamii).

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2.2 Study Sites

2.2.1 Vegetation and Aquatic Habitats

2.2.1.1 Irrigation site

The property proposed for the irrigation of highly treated effluent within Catchment 2 supports regenerating Shale Sandstone Transition Forest dominated by Eucalyptus crebra and E. punctata. Whilst retaining the canopy composition of a Shale Sandstone Transition Forest, vegetation remaining on the proposed irrigation site has been partially cleared and currently supports a canopy cover of less than 10%. The ground layer and shrub strata were absent having been recently control- burned.

2.2.1.2 Catchment 1

Catchment 1 immediately downstream of the proposed irrigation site supports extensive areas of Shale Sandstone Transition Forest. The upper reaches of catchment 1 contain a poorly defined channel, which at the time of site inspections, had a series of small (<1m diameter) shallow pools separated by large areas of damp sedgeland.

Riparian Scrub dominates along the banks of the waterway. Common shrubs along the creek include Leptospermum spp., Banksia spp., Melaleuca spp., and Acacia spp.. The shrub stratum is locally dense and interspersed between rock pavement, recent deposits of sediment and water. The ground stratum is similarly variable. Schoenus melanostachys, other sedges and fern species occur frequently on the banks and consolidated sediments within streams. The high flora and substrate diversity provide diverse and high habitat value for aquatic and terrestrial species.

Due to access constraints (i.e. steep topography), the riparian and aquatic habitats in the middle and lower sections of catchment 1 were not inspected. However, based on aerial photography and an inspection from the ridgeline adjoining this area, riparian vegetation appeared to be in a relatively undisturbed condition. It is expected that aquatic habitats in this area will also be in relatively good condition.

Upstream reaches of creek in catchment 1 Escarpment overlooking lower reaches of creek in catchment 1

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2.2.1.3 Catchment 2

Within Catchment 2 east of the irrigation site and west of the railway remnant Shale Sandstone Transition Forest has been retained within the Wirrimbirra Sanctuary adjacent to Tea Tree Hollow. This section of the creek traversing the sanctuary has been highly modified and is dominated by exotic species, including dense Ligustrum sp. thickets.

The stream in this area consisted of a narrow (<1 m wide) shallow drainage that, at the time of surveys, contained of a series of shallow disconnected pools. During flow events, it would be expected that this area would consist of a shallow run. Banks were undercut in places, which together with woody debris and trailing roots and vegetation, supported a range of aquatic micro- habitat types. Litter, most likely derived from the adjoining road, together with road runoff are likely to adversely affect aquatic habitat values.

Downstream of Wirrimbirra Sanctuary and the rail-line, Tea Tree Hollow is bounded by remnant Upper Georges River Sandstone Woodland dominated by mixed Eucalypt spp. and Corymbia spp. over a dense shrublayer of Acacia, Leptospermum, Banksia and Melaleuca spp. and a ground stratum of native grasses and ferns. Riparian Scrub dominates along the banks of the waterway. Common shrubs along the creek include Acacia spp., Leptospermum spp., Banksia spp., Melaleuca spp., Callistemon sp., Hakea sp. and Grevillea spp.. The shrub stratum is locally dense and frequently interspersed between rock pavement, recent deposits of sediment and water. The ground stratum is similarly variable. Schoenus melanostachys, other sedges, Lomandra spp., and fern species occur frequently on the banks and consolidated sediments within streams.

Aquatic habitats in the area downstream of the rail-line had a variable structural character. Immediately downstream of the rail-line consisted of shallow, poorly defined drainage channel. At the time of site inspections the channel was largely dry, although several small (<2 m long, <0.5 m wide) shallow pools were present in places. Stream banks were well vegetated and had some undercutting in places. Aquatic habitats were in a largely undisturbed condition but were structurally simple.

The middle and lower reaches of the creek near Bargo Mine, while still representing an ephemeral stream, had a different structural habitat character to the upper creek reaches. The channel was well defined and wider (1-3 m wide) than that found upstream. Substrate types were highly variable, consisting of bedrock bars, cobble, gravel, sands and silts. The rocky substrates would, during flow periods, form temporary riffle habitats. However at the time of sampling most of these rock substrates were either dry or formed shallow rock pools. Waters in some pools had an orange colour, possibly reflecting an abundance of iron bacteria.

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Catchment 2 upstream of rail line Catchment 2 immediately downstream of rail line

Stream habitat near Bargo Mine Stream habitat near Bargo Mine

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2.2.1.4 Exotic Species

Several exotic species such as balloon vine, verbena, lantana, privet and blackberry were recorded from the survey sites, although most of these were found at low frequency and abundance. Typically the locations of weed infestations were associated with areas of past disturbance, particularly lands adjacent to the rail corridor and at Wirrimbirra Sanctuary where dense thickets of Ligustrum sinense were recorded along the waterway. An isolated patch of Ageratina adenophora (Crofton Weed) was recorded in the waterway located adjacent to the Bargo Mine. Crofton weed is a Class 4 noxious weed under the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 mostly in coastal local government areas between Gosford and the Queensland border but not within Wollondilly Shire.

2.2.2 Threatened Species and Endangered Ecological Communities

2.2.2.1 Endangered Ecological Communities

The NSW Scientific Committee has listed Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest as an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995.

Shale/ Sandstone Transition Forest is also listed an Endangered Community under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

2.2.2.2 Rare or Threatened Flora Species

Records of threatened flora species were compiled from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife and other reports. This information indicates that a total of 15 threatened flora species have been recorded, or potentially occur, within the study area. This includes 11 species listed on the EPBC Act. Table 2.1 lists the threatened species recorded within the region and their potential of occurring within the study sites. Table 2.1 Threatened Flora Species Records for the Study Area TSC EPBC Potential Occurrence in Study Species Habitat Act Act Sites Unlikely to occur in drainage Occurs mainly in heath and dry sclerophyll lines to be directly impacted by forest. Substrate is typically sand and Acacia the proposal. May occur on E V sandy clay, often with ironstone gravels bynoeana adjacent upslopes but is unlikely and is usually very infertile and well- to be impacted by proposed drained. irrigation scheme. Occurs on alluviums, shales and at the Unlikely to occur in drainage intergrade between shales and lines to be directly impacted by Acacia sandstones. The soils are characteristically the proposal. May occur on V V pubescens gravelly soils, often with ironstone. Occurs adjacent upslopes but is unlikely in open woodland and forest, in a variety of to be impacted by proposed plant communities. irrigation scheme. Unlikely to occur in drainage lines to be directly impacted by Bossiaea Occurs on stony slopes or ridges on the proposal. May occur on V V oligosperma sandstone in the Yerranderie area. adjacent upslopes but is unlikely to be impacted by proposed irrigation scheme.

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TSC EPBC Potential Occurrence in Study Species Habitat Act Act Sites Range of habitat types, most of which have a strong shale soil influence. Includes Epacris ridgetop drainage depressions and riparian Potentially occurs within and purpurascens zones draining into Sydney Sandstone adjacent to the drainage lines to V var. Gully Forest, shale lenses within be directly impacted by the purpurascens sandstone habitats and colluvial areas proposal. overlying or adjoining sandstone or tertiary alluvium. Rare emergent tree in scrub, heath and Unlikely to occur in drainage low woodland on sandy soils, usually as Eucalypt sp. lines to be directly impacted by E isolated individuals or occasionally in small cattai the proposal or on adjacent clustered groups. The sites at which it upslopes. occurs are generally flat and on ridge tops. Wet open forest on sandy alluvial soils along valley floors at an elevation of 140- Potentially occurs within and Eucalyptus 750m. The soils are shallow to moderately adjacent to the drainage lines to V V benthamii deep, <100 cm, are well-drained alluvial be directly impacted by the sands and gravels along stream channels, proposal. small terraces and alluvial flats. Restricted to damp, sandy soils in wet Unlikely to occur in drainage Kunzea heath or mallee open scrub at higher lines to be directly impacted by V V cambagei altitudes on sandstone outcrops or Silurian the proposal or on adjacent Group sediments. upslopes. Clayey lateritic soils associated with the Unlikely to occur in drainage Leucopogon Mittagong Formation between the lines to be directly impacted by fletcheri ssp. E Wianamatta Shale and the Hawkesbury the proposal or on adjacent Fletcheri Sandstone, generally on flat to gently upslopes. sloping terrain along ridges and spurs. Occurs in dry sclerophyll forest, scrubby Unlikely to occur in drainage low-woodland and heath, principally on lines to be directly impacted by Persoonia clayey sandstone and laterites of the the proposal. May occur on V V acerosa Narrabeen Group as well as the adjacent upslopes but is unlikely Hawkesbury Group where soils are very to be impacted by proposed infertile and stony. irrigation scheme. Unlikely to occur in drainage Dry sclerophyll eucalypt woodland or forest lines to be directly impacted by Persoonia on heavier, well drained, loamy, gravelly the proposal. May occur on bargoensis E V soils of Hawkesbury Sandstone & adjacent upslopes but is unlikely Wianamatta Shale, between 100 and 300 to be impacted by proposed m alt. irrigation scheme. Grows in woodland to dry sclerophyll forest Unlikely to occur in drainage on clayey and gravelly laterite. Preferred lines to be directly impacted by soils are associated with the Mittagong Persoonia the proposal. May occur on E V Formation. The preferred topography is glaucescens adjacent upslopes but is unlikely ridge-tops, plateaux and upper slopes. to be impacted by proposed Aspect does not appear to be a significant irrigation scheme. factor.

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TSC EPBC Potential Occurrence in Study Species Habitat Act Act Sites Occurs in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland with a shrubby understorey. Unlikely to occur in drainage Favours disturbed heath, shrubby thickets lines to be directly impacted by Persoonia and sandstone scrubs. Frequently found the proposal. May occur on hirsuta (subsp. E E on ridge tops and the mid slopes of hills adjacent upslopes but is unlikely evoluta) and rises. Grows in sandy to stony soils to be impacted by proposed derived from sandstone or very rarely on irrigation scheme. shale, from near sea level to 600 m altitude. Unlikely to occur in drainage lines to be directly impacted by the proposal. May occur on Pimelia spicata E In western Sydney occurs on an undulating adjacent upslopes but is unlikely topography of substrates derived from to be impacted by proposed Wianamatta Shale. irrigation scheme. Most commonly found growing in small pockets of shallow soil in depressions on Unlikely to occur in drainage Pterostylis sandstone rock shelves above cliff lines. lines to be directly impacted by E E saxicola Vegetation communities above these the proposal or on adjacent shelves are either shale/sandstone upslopes. transitions or shale communities. May be locally abundant, particularly within scrubby/dry heath areas within Castlereagh Ironbark Forest and Shale Unlikely to occur in drainage Pultenaea Gravel Transition Forest on tertiary lines to be directly impacted by E V parviflora alluvium or laterised clays. May also be the proposal or on adjacent common in transitional areas where these upslopes. communities adjoin Castlereagh Scribbly Gum Woodland.

No threatened flora species were recorded during the site inspection but two of those species listed in Table 2.1 potentially occur, including Epacris purpurascens var. purpurascens and Eucalyptus benthamii.

The following flora species have been recorded in the region and are uncommon on a local scale: Darwinia grandiflora, Blechnum ambiguum, Hibbertia nidida, Lomandra fluviatilis and Eucalyptus ligustrima. Blechnum ambiguum is common on wet rocks usually in open forest. This species potentially occurs within the drainage lines to be directly impacted by the proposal. Lomandra fluviatilis grows in creek beds on sandy soils. This species potentially occurs within the drainage lines to be directly impacted by the proposal.

2.2.2.3 Rare or Threatened Fauna Species

Aquatic Species

Based on a review of existing information, the following threatened aquatic fauna species have the potential to occur in the catchment:

 Adams emerald dragonfly (Archaeophya adamsi) and Sydney Hawk dragonfly (Austrocordulia leonardi) have an expected distribution within the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment. Both species are thought to be restricted to the lower sub-region of the catchment rather than upper catchment

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areas such as the Bargo sub-catchment (NSW DPI 2006). Neither of the preferred habitat for these species is supported in catchment 2, nor in the headwaters of catchment 1. It is uncertain whether suitable habitat exists in the lower reaches of catchment 1.

 Five freshwater fish species from the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment are listed as threatened in NSW waters (NSW DPI 2006). Macquarie perch (Macquaria australasica) and the Australian grayling (Prototroctes maraena) are endemic to the catchment and other areas of south-east Australia. Three other threatened species have been stocked in the catchment and are not endemic: Silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus), Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii), and Trout cod (Maccullochella macquariensis). Neither of the preferred habitat for these species is supported in catchment 2, nor in the headwaters of catchment 1. It is uncertain whether suitable habitat exists in the lower reaches of catchment 1.

 Over 60 species of frogs are found in the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment including several threatened species such as the Giant burrowing frog, the Green and golden bell frog, the Giant barred frog, the Red-crowned toadlet, the Stuttering frog, Littlejohn’s tree frog and the Booroolong frog (NSW DPI 2006).

Terrestrial Species

Records of threatened fauna species were compiled from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife and other reports. This information indicates that a total of 15 threatened fauna species have been recorded, or have the potential to occur, within the region of the study area and most of these have a preference or reliance on habitat within or adjacent to waterways. Table 2.2 lists these species and their potential for occurring within the study sites.

Table 2.2 Threatened Fauna Species Records for the Study Area Species TSC EPBC Habitat Potential Occurrence in Study Act Act Sites BIRDS Barking Owl (Ninox V Habitat is typically dominated by The study sites may provide suitable connivens) eucalypts and usually roosts in habitat for this species. dense foliage in large trees including rainforest, Casuarina eucalypts, Angophora or Acacia species of streamside forests. Roost sites are often near watercourses or wetlands. Typically breeds in hollows of large eucalypts or paperbarks, usually near watercourses or wetlands. Black Bittern V Inhabits terrestrial and estuarine The study sites may provide suitable (Ixobrychus wetlands, generally in areas of habitat for this species. flavicollis) permanent water and dense vegetation. Where permanent water is present, this species may occur in flooded grassland, forest, woodland, rainforest and mangroves. Bush Stone-curlew V Lightly timbered, open forest or Unlikley that preferred habitat occurs (Burhinus grallarius) woodland habitat. Preferred habitat within the study area. is often associated with woodlands of casuarina, eucalyptus, acacia or epolycarpa. Nests on the ground, near dead timber, usually under

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Species TSC EPBC Habitat Potential Occurrence in Study Act Act Sites trees within open woodlands that have an understory of short grass or among brushwood.

Powerful Owl (Ninox V Prefers gullies and gorges, The study sites may provide suitable strenua) supporting wet to dry sclerophyll habitat for this species. forest with a dense understorey. Turquoise parrot V Nest in eucalypt hollows and feed in Suitable habitat for the species may (Neophem pulchella) open grass areas. occur adjacent to the waterways.

MAMMALS Common Bent-wing V Cave-dwelling species which roosts Whilst the study sites may provide Bat (Miniopterus in storm water drains, mines and some habitat for this species, the schreibersii) houses. waterways are not considered core habitat for the species. East Coast Freetail V Occur in dry sclerophyll forest, Unlikley that preferred habitat occurs Bat (Mormopterus woodland, swamp forests and within the study area. norfolkensis) mangrove forests east of the Great Dividing Range. Roosts mainly in tree hollows but will also roost under bark or in man-made structures. Usually solitary but also recorded roosting communally, probably insectivorous. Eastern False V Prefers moist habitats, with trees Suitable habitat for the species may Pipistrelle taller than 20 m. Generally roosts in occur adjacent to the waterways. (Falsistrellus eucalypt hollows, but has also been tasmaniensis) found under loose bark on trees or in buildings. Fishing bat (Myotis Requires permanently flowing water The study sites may provide suitable adversus) and appropriate roosting sites such habitat for this species. as caves, disused tunnels, old buildings and dense rainforest foliage. Spotted tail quoll V This species has been recorded Suitable habitat for the species may (Dasyurus maculatus) from a wide variety of habitats occur adjacent to the waterways. including rainforest, open forest, woodland, coastal heathland and inland riparian forest. Den sites have been recorded in caves, rock crevices and hollow logs. AMPHIBIANS Green and Gold Bell E Inhabits marshes, dams and stream Suitable habitat for the species may Frog (Litoria aurea) sides, particularly those containing occur within and adjacent to the Typha spp. or Eleocharis spp. waterways. Optimum habitat includes water bodies which are unshaded, free of predatory fish Gambusia holbrooki, have a grassy area nearby and diurnal sheltering sites available such as vegetation and/or rocks. Barred frog E V This species prefers wet eucalypt The study sites may provide isolated (Mixophyes balbus) and rainforest. Found in rainforest pockets of suitable habitat for this and wet, tall open forest in the species, but are not considered core foothills and escarpment on the habitat for this species. eastern side of the Great Dividing Range. Outside the breeding season adults live in deep leaf litter and thick understorey vegetation on the forest floor.

Feed on insects and smaller frogs.

Breed in streams during summer

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Species TSC EPBC Habitat Potential Occurrence in Study Act Act Sites after heavy rain. Eggs are laid on rock shelves or shallow riffles in small, flowing streams.

As the tadpoles grow they move to deep permanent pools and take approximately 12 months to metamorphose.

Red-crowned Toadlet This species occurs beside The study sites are likely to provide (Pseudophryne temporary creeks, gutters and soaks suitable habitat for this species. australis) on Hawkesbury Sandstone. OTHER Cumberland Land E Restricted to the Cumberland Plain Suitable habitat for the species may Snail (Meridolum and Castlereagh Woodlands of occur within and adjacent to the corneovirens) Western Sydney and also along the waterways. fringes of River Flat Forest, especially where it meets Cumberland Plain Woodland. Typically occurs under logs and other debris, amongst leaf and bark accumulations around bases of trees and sometimes under grass clumps. REPTILES Broad-headed Snake This species is restricted to rock-on- The study sites do not provide (Hoplocephalus rock habitat where thin sheets of important habitat features for this bungaroides) exfoliated rock occur in open species. sandstone ridge country.

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3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF PROPOSED IRRIGATION SITE

3.1 Current Threatening Processes

Key pressures which currently threaten the ecological values of the study sites include:

 Sedimentation and pollutants entering the creeks, in particular Tea Tree Hollow receives a high level of gross pollutants.

 Weed invasion. Several exotic species were recorded from the survey sites, although most of these were found at low frequency and abundance. Typically the locations of weed infestations were associated with areas of past disturbance, particularly lands adjacent to the rail corridor and at Wirrimbirra Sanctuary.

 Erosion and bank scouring was observed in the lower reaches of Tea Tree Hollow.

 Water quality within the lower reaches of Tea Tree Hollow is degraded as a result of mining, agricultural and rural residential activity (refer to BMT WBM 2012). 3.2 Potential Impacts of the Proposed Irrigation Scheme

The structure and composition of aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna communities in fluvial ecosystems depend on source, timing, and rate of flow. The flow of a waterway regulates habitat conditions, such as food availability, determines the physical characteristics of the water such as velocity, depth, temperature and turbidity, and effects geomorphic features of the waterway such as channel width, bank height and bed material.

High flows have a direct effect on waterway biota through scouring and transportation of sediments, nutrients, habitat, fauna and plant material. Aquatic and riparian communities generally recover quickly after periodic individual flood or periods of no flow, however, frequent disturbances may have persistent ecological effects such as changes in species diversity and abundance and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour. As a result, waterways with frequent high flows or no-flow periods tend to have relatively simple trophic structure, low taxonomic diversity, and high dominance by a few taxa. The creeks of the study area are subject to seasonal variations in flow and support a mix of native grasses, ferns and sedges tolerant of periodic inundation. The waterways support diverse vegetation cover and substrate and provide diverse and high habitat value for aquatic and terrestrial species.

3.2.1 Summary of Estimated Additional Baseflow

It is predicted that the proposed irrigation will result in some additional baseflow within the receiving waterways. However, no major permanent pooling is expected as a result of this increase in baseflow. Additional flow is expected to be re-infiltrated into the soil outside of prolonged wet weather flow events and winter months. Additional baseflow will occur as a relatively constant seepage given effluent application will be evenly distributed over each day. Available survey data (EM Survey) for the site has been used to estimate channel cross sections in each of the ephemeral watercourses discharging off-site. Manning’s equation was then used to convert additional baseflow into a theoretical estimated flow depth in each channel. A range of sensitivity tests were undertaken.

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3.2.1.1 C1 (North West) Subcatchment Gully

For C1 (NW gully): average additional baseflow is estimated to range from ~0.0009 m3/s (0.9 L/s) in January to 0.001 m3/s (1.3 L/s) in July. On top of any existing baseflow (likely to be some due to presence of upslope dam) our rough estimate of flow depth is 1-2 cm year round. A 90th percentile additional baseflow is estimated at 0.002 m3/s (2.0 L/s) which constitutes a 2 cm depth of flow. Additional baseflow is predicted for 50% of days in an average year. Results are summarised in the following table. Table 3-1 Predicted Additional Baseflow: C1 (North West) Subcatchment C1 Additional Baseflow m3/sec Depth Frequency Max. 0.0021 1-2 cm 24 90th % 0.0020 1-2 cm 341 Average 0.0011 0-1 cm 175 Median 0.0012 Eff. 178 Zero1 10th % 0.0000 Eff. Zero 47 Min. 0.0000 Eff. Zero 47

1. Flows <1 L/s will not be detectable in this gully and likely to be attenuated.

3.2.1.2 C2 (Tea Tree Hollow) Outlet from Central North of the Site

For C2/C3 (Tea Tree Hollow): average additional baseflow is estimated to range from ~0.0016 m3/s (1.6 L/s) in November to 0.0025 m3/s (2.5 L/s) in July. On top of any existing baseflow (likely to be significant looking at the culvert discharge into the Sanctuary) our rough estimate of flow depth is 1-4 cm year round for C2. A 90th percentile additional baseflow is estimated at 0.0031 m3/s (3.1 L/s) which constitutes a 3-4 cm depth of flow. Additional baseflow is predicted for 60% of days in an average year. Results are summarised in the following table. Table 3-2 Predicted Additional Baseflow: C2 (Tea Tree Hollow) Subcatchment C2 Additional Baseflow m3/sec Depth Frequency Max. 0.0042 3-4 cm 2 90th % 0.0031 2-3 cm 330 Average 0.0019 1-2 cm 178 Median 0.0019 0-1 cm 178 10th % 0.0005 Eff. Zero 34 Min. 0.0000 Eff. Zero 4

3.2.1.3 C2/3 (Downstream of Remembrance Drive) Tea Tree Hollow

For C2/C3 (Tea Tree Hollow): average additional baseflow is estimated to range from ~0.0023 m3/s (2.3 L/s) in November to 0.0045 m3/s (4.5 L/s) in July. On top of any existing baseflow (likely to be significant looking at the culvert discharge into the Sanctuary) our rough estimate of flow depth is 1-3 cm year round for C2/3. A 90th percentile additional baseflow is estimated at 0.005 m3/s (5.0 L/s)

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which constitutes a 2-3 cm depth of flow. Additional baseflow is predicted for 80% of days in an average year at this location. Results are summarised in the following table. Table 3-3 Predicted Additional Baseflow: C2/3 (Tea Tree Hollow) Subcatchment C2/3 Additional Baseflow m3/sec Depth Frequency Max. 0.0065 3 cm 1 90th % 0.0050 2-3 cm 329 Average 0.0031 1-2 cm 180 Median 0.0031 1-2 cm 180 10th % 0.0010 Eff. Zero 38 Min. 0.0001 Eff. Zero 1

3.2.2 Potential for Impacts on Aquatic and Terrestrial Ecology

It is very unlikely that the predicted additional baseflow will have any detrimental impact on terrestrial flora and fauna within and directly adjacent to the study sites. Given that no major changes to flow velocities, volumes or quality are expected it is very unlikely that the proposed scheme will have any detrimental impact on terrestrial flora and fauna within and directly adjacent to the study sites on the basis that:

 the waterways of the study area are subject to seasonal variations in flow and support a mix of native grasses, ferns and sedges tolerant of periodic inundation and are likely to tolerate the predicted increase in flow.

 Aquatic and riparian communities generally recover quickly after periodic individual flood or periods of no flow.

However, if the proposed scheme results in higher velocities on a frequent basis and results in channel scouring or permanent to long-term (in the order of weeks to months) submergence of vegetation, persistent ecological effects such as changes in species diversity and abundance and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour, may be expected. This is not expected based on the outcomes of MUSIC modelling (as summarised in the above tables). Changes in flow and velocity are expected to be incremental. Time series analysis of additional baseflow showed that frequent periods of low to zero flow are still expected to occur at all subcatchment discharge points.

On that basis, the proposal is unlikely to have a detrimental effect on threatened vegetation communities within the catchments or on any threatened species or their habitat potentially occurring in the area. Irrigation at the proposed site may cause a change in ground cover species diversity within the Shale Sandstone Transition Forest. However, it is not anticipated that this will be a significant effect as the groundcover and shrub layer within this agricultural site has been highly altered as a result of clearing, burning and blade ploughing.

The waterways of the study site are dominated by flora taxa tolerant of periodic inundation and are likely to tolerate the predicted increase in flow. It is not anticipated that the increase in baseflow will significantly alter the chemical or physical characteristics of the water to an extent that will alter current habitat conditions causing changes in species diversity and abundance (including weed species) and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour.

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3.3 Legislative Requirements

In regard to ecological issues, the potential impacts of the proposed irrigation scheme may need to consider the legislative requirements of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

3.3.1 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

The TSC Act aims to protect species, populations and ecological communities threatened with extinction in NSW. Threatened species impact assessment is an integral part of environmental impact assessment. The objective of s. 5A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act), the assessment of significance, is to improve the standard of consideration afforded to threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats through the planning and assessment process, and to ensure that the consideration is transparent. Developments likely to have a significant effect on threatened species must prepare a species impact statement (SIS).

Whilst it is not anticipated that the increase in baseflow will significantly alter the chemical or physical characteristics of the water to an extent that will alter current habitat conditions causing changes in species diversity and abundance and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour, this is a preliminary evaluation only. Full ecological surveys have not been undertaken and as such, further survey work may be required to ascertain whether the proposed scheme would impact on species of conservation concern.

3.3.2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The EPBC Act provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places defined in the EPBC Act as matters of national environmental significance. The EPBC Act comes into play when a proposal has the potential to have a significant impact on a matter of national environmental significance.

Whilst it is not anticipated that the increase in baseflow will significantly alter the chemical or physical characteristics of the water to an extent that will alter current habitat conditions causing changes in species diversity and abundance and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour, this is a preliminary evaluation only. Full ecological surveys have not been undertaken and as such, further survey work may be required to ascertain whether the proposed scheme would impact on a matter of national environmental significance.

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4 SUMMARY

Based on the available information to date, it is predicted that the proposed irrigation will result in:

 some additional baseflow within the receiving waterways

 no major permanent pooling

 no significant alteration to the chemical or physical characteristics of the water.

Given that no major changes to flow velocities, volumes or quality are expected it is very unlikely that the proposed scheme will have any detrimental impact on terrestrial flora and fauna within and directly adjacent to the study sites on the basis that:

 the waterways of the study area are subject to seasonal variations in flow and support a mix of native grasses, ferns and sedges tolerant of periodic inundation and are likely to tolerate the predicted increase in flow.

 Aquatic and riparian communities generally recover quickly after periodic individual flood or periods of no flow.

However, if the proposed scheme results in higher velocities on a frequent basis and results in channel scouring or permanent to long-term (in the order of weeks to months) submergence of vegetation, persistent ecological effects such as changes in species diversity and abundance and alterations to life-history and fauna behaviour, may be expected.

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5 REFERENCES

BMT WBM (2012) Feasibility of Land Treatment By Subsurface Irrigation at Bargo.

Belik, M. and Close, R. (1997). Bargo River Issues Paper. A report produced for the Upper Nepean. Catchment Committee. University of Western Sydney Macarthur, NSW, Australia.

New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSWNPWS) (2002). Native Vegattion of the Cumberland Plain. Map 1 of 16 Wollondilly LGA (Southern Section).

New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSWNPWS) (2002). Interpretation Guidelines for the Native Vegetation Maps of the Cumberland Plain, Western Sydney, Final Edition NSW NPWS, Hurstville.

NSW DPI (2006) Reducing the impact of road crossing on aquatic habitat in coastal waterways – Hawkesbury-Nepean, NSW, Report to the New South Wales Environmental Trust, NSW DPI, Flemington, NSW.

Thackway, R. and Cresswell, I.D. (1995). An interim biogeographic regionalisation for Australia: a framework for setting priorities in the National Reserves System Cooperative Program, Version 4.0. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.

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BMT WBM Brisbane Level 8, 200 Creek Street Brisbane 4000 PO Box 203 Spring Hill QLD 4004 Tel +61 7 3831 6744 Fax +61 7 3832 3627 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Denver 8200 S. Akron Street, Unit 120 Centennial Denver Colorado 80112 USA Tel +1 303 792 9814 Fax +1 303 792 9742 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Mackay Suite 1, 138 Wood Street Mackay 4740 PO Box 4447 Mackay QLD 4740 Tel +61 7 4953 5144 Fax +61 7 4953 5132 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Melbourne Level 5, 99 King Street Melbourne 3000 PO Box 604 Collins Street West VIC 8007 Tel +61 3 8620 6100 Fax +61 3 8620 6105 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Newcastle 126 Belford Street Broadmeadow 2292 PO Box 266 Broadmeadow NSW 2292 Tel +61 2 4940 8882 Fax +61 2 4940 8887 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Perth Suite 6, 29 Hood Street Subiaco 6008 Tel +61 8 9328 2029 Fax +61 8 9484 7588 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Sydney Level 1, 256-258 Norton Street Leichhardt 2040 PO Box 194 Leichhardt NSW 2040 Tel +61 2 9713 4836 Fax +61 2 9713 4890 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

BMT WBM Vancouver 401 611 Alexander Street Vancouver British Columbia V6A 1E1 Canada Tel +1 604 683 5777 Fax +1 604 608 3232 Email [email protected] Web www.bmtwbm.com.au

Sydney Water Corporation Review of Environmental Factors – Bargo Wastewater Scheme

Appendix D Aboriginal Due Diligence Assessment

Ref: 433990 January 2013 Final

BARGO WASTEWATER SCHEME REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

Prepared for GHD on behalf of Sydney Water

Wollondilly Local Government Area

Final Report December 2012

Ref. 1116

KELLEHER NIGHTINGALE CONSULTING PTY LTD Archaeological and Heritage Management ACN 120 187 671 Suite 911-912, 155 King St SYDNEY NSW 2000 Phone 02 9232 5373 Fax 02 9232 5316 Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

Document Information

Project Name Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage due diligence assessment

Project Number 1116

Status Final

Version 3 (Alternate transfer main alignment)

Client Name GHD

Recipient Peter Carson, Principal Environmental Planner

Issue Date 7 December 2012

Prepared by Dr Matthew Kelleher; Alison Nightingale; Jaclyn Ward; Kylie McDonald

Approved by Dr Matthew Kelleher; Alison Nightingale

i Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

Executive Summary

Sydney Water is investigating new technology systems, delivery approaches and business and ownership models to provide improved wastewater services to the villages of Bargo, Cowan, Douglas Park, Wilton, Buxton, West Hoxton, Galston and Glenorie under an accelerated program. Environmental assessment is commencing with servicing strategies for Bargo and Douglas Park. Sydney Water engaged GHD Pty Ltd to prepare a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the Bargo servicing scheme.

The proposed Bargo servicing scheme comprises a network of reticulation pipelines within the subsidised service area boundary, wastewater pumping station and barometric loop within the town, a wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area to the north of the town and a transfer main connecting the pumping station with the treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area. Combined, these elements are referred to as the study area.

As part of the REF, GHD commissioned an assessment of Aboriginal heritage in accordance with the Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales (DECCW, September 2010). The due diligence process involves “taking reasonable and practical measures to determine whether your actions will harm an Aboriginal object and, if so, what measures can be taken to avoid that harm” (DECCW 2010:4).

The requirements of the REF specified a two stage approach to the provision of information: 1. Desktop review and preliminary advice for incorporation in a Desktop Review report; and 2. Assessment, including visual inspection and reporting.

This report comprises results from both stages of the assessment process, including desktop review, assessment and visual inspection of the study area.

The desktop review identified there were no Aboriginal heritage items previously known to occur within the study area.

Four Aboriginal heritage sites were situated near the study area, only one of which was within around 200 metres. An open artefact scatter was recorded at the Bargo sports ground approximately 200m west of the servicing strategy boundary in the south west of Bargo township. The location of this site was verified during visual inspection. The other three known sites in the vicinity were rock shelters with art, the closest of which was situated around one kilometre east of the study area.

Visual inspection included assessment of the transfer main, proposed wastewater treatment plant and irrigation area, proposed pumping station site and pipeline alignments in the subsidised service area. No Aboriginal archaeological sites were identified within the study area. The majority of the subsidised service area had been subject to significant ground surface disturbance from road and residential construction. The proposed transfer main is located within previously disturbed road corridors of Remembrance Driveway and Great Southern Road. The proposed wastewater treatment plant and irrigation area is located on relatively undisturbed land that has been used primarily for agricultural purposes, however no Aboriginal sites were recorded and landscape features suggested a low likelihood of subsurface archaeological deposit.

The due diligence assessment has concluded that no Aboriginal heritage items occur within the Bargo wastewater scheme study area, as shown in this report.

According to the due diligence code of practice development can proceed with caution.

ii Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

Contents

CONTENTS ...... III 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1

1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND ...... 1 1.2 PROPOSED ACTIVITIES ...... 1 1.3 ASSESSMENT PROCESS ...... 1 1.4 PROJECT STAGING ...... 3 2 ASSESSMENT...... 4

2.1 IDENTIFY IF THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY WILL DISTURB THE GROUND SURFACE ...... 4 2.2 DATABASE SEARCH (AHIMS) AND KNOWN INFORMATION SOURCES ...... 4 2.3 LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT ...... 7 2.4 IMPACT AVOIDANCE ...... 7 2.5 DESKTOP REVIEW SUMMARY ...... 7 2.6 VISUAL INSPECTION ...... 9 2.7 CONSULTATION WITH LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL ...... 11 3 LEGISLATIVE CONSIDERATIONS ...... 12 4 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 13 REFERENCES ...... 14 APPENDIX A AHIMS SEARCH RESULTS ...... 19

iii Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

FIGURES Figure 1. Study area ...... 2 Figure 2. Registered Aboriginal heritage sites near Bargo (AHIMS search results) ...... 5 Figure 3. Known Aboriginal sites near the study area ...... 8

TABLES Table 1. Frequency of site features from AHIMS database search ...... 4 Table 2. Known Aboriginal sites near the study area ...... 6

iv Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

1 Introduction

1.1 Project background

The NSW Government has committed to an accelerated program to provide improved wastewater services to the villages of Bargo, Cowan, Douglas Park, Wilton, Buxton, West Hoxton, Galston and Glenorie as part of the Priority Sewerage Program (PSP). Sydney Water’s Operating Licence has been modified to require delivery of improved wastewater services to Bargo, Cowan, Douglas Park, Buxton, West Hoxton and Wilton by June 2014 and to Galston and Glenorie by June 2015.

For this program, Sydney Water is investigating different technology systems, delivery approaches and business and ownership models to those used in previous PSP schemes. Where possible, Sydney Water is aiming to service the villages without long transfers of flows to existing systems as well as achieving a lower cost per property and better value for money delivery of these schemes within the required timeframes.

Servicing strategies are being prepared for the first six schemes, with environmental assessment having commenced for Bargo, Douglas Park, Cowan and West Hoxton. Sydney Water has engaged GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) to prepare a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the Bargo wastewater scheme. An Aboriginal heritage due diligence assessment was undertaken as part of the REF.

1.2 Proposed activities

Bargo township is on the southern fringe of Wollondilly Shire, 35 kilometres south west of Campbelltown and 30 kilometres north east of Mittagong. It is currently serviced by a mix of installations that include simple pump out tanks, through to septic tanks with on site subsurface discharge, to simple aerated wastewater treatment systems (AWTS) that dispose of the water fraction by periodic spray irrigation of gardens and lawns.

The preferred servicing strategy includes a Pressure Sewerage System (PSS) with transfer to a local treatment plant. Disposal would be subsurface irrigation, with an approximate 25ha irrigation area needed. Approximately 800 lots will be serviced by the scheme.

The proposed scheme comprises:  on-property pressure sewerage system (PSS) equipment to eligible properties within the subsidised service area;  approximately 16.2km of pressure reticulation;  a barometric loop (near the existing reservoir site);  a gravity main approximately 1km long connecting the reticulation network to a new Wastewater Pumping Station (WWPS);  a new WWPS and chemical dosing unit in Bargo;  approximately 1.8km transfer main from the WWPS to a new Water Recycling Plant (WRP);  a new WRP north of Bargo;  a subsurface irrigation field for land treatment of effluent; and  other ancillary assets such as air release facilities, isolation valves and flushing points.

Combined, these elements are referred to as the ‘proposal’ while the area to be disturbed by the proposal is referred to as the study area. The study area is shown in Figure 1.

Much of the scheme, including reticulation and transfer main, is within areas of existing disturbance such as road easements. The preferred site for treatment and irrigation, in the north west of Bargo, is large lot rural lands.

1.3 Assessment process

The REF is based on a preferred servicing strategy, rather than a concept design, and as such is being prepared using a constraints based approach. A key factor of the constraints based assessment included the identification of potential impacts of the scheme on Aboriginal heritage.

A due diligence Aboriginal archaeological assessment of the proposal has been undertaken in accordance with the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (formerly Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, DECCW) Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales (DECCW, September 2010).

The due diligence process involves “taking reasonable and practical measures to determine whether your actions will harm an Aboriginal object and, if so, what measures can be taken to avoid that harm” (DECCW 2010:4).

1 Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

Figure 1. Study area

2 Bargo Wastewater Scheme REF: Aboriginal heritage assessment December 2012

The due diligence assessment process is a step by step method designed to give proponents a baseline level of information outlining opportunities and constraints related to Aboriginal heritage. The relevant steps are:  Determining if the activity will disturb the ground surface or any culturally modified trees (Step 1)  Database search: Aboriginal heritage information management system (AHIMS) and known information sources (Step 2a)  Landscape assessment (Step 2b)  Impact avoidance assessment (Step 3)  Desktop assessment and visual inspection (Step 4).

The Code of Practice specifies that if the initial assessment process identifies that Aboriginal objects will or are likely to be harmed, then further investigation and impact assessment is required (Step 5).

1.4 Project staging

The requirements of the REF specified a two stage approach to the provision of information: 1. Desktop review and preliminary advice for incorporation in a Desktop Review report; and 2. Assessment, including visual inspection and reporting.

This due diligence assessment report presents results of both stages 1 and 2, incorporating desktop review, assessment and visual inspection of the study area, incorporating:  network of reticulation pipelines within the subsidised service area boundary;  proposed pumping station site at 95 Great Southern Road;  proposed wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area;  transfer main connecting the pumping station with the treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area, along Remembrance Driveway and Great Southern Road; and  variable grade sewer (VGS) connecting the PSS to the new pumping station.

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2 Assessment

2.1 Identify if the proposed activity will disturb the ground surface

The proposal involves construction of a treatment plant, pumping station, subsurface irrigation area and network of reticulation and transfer main pipelines. The proposed activities will disturb the ground surface.

The majority of the proposed reticulation and transfer main network would be situated within the existing road network of Bargo. Road easements were disturbed lands. The location for the treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area is within rural lands which exhibited low levels of disturbance.

The proposal would disturb the ground surface and was considered to have potential to impact on Aboriginal heritage. As a result, the due diligence process progressed to the next step.

2.2 Database search (AHIMS) and known information sources

2.2.1 AHIMS web services The Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) is a database operated by OEH, regulated under section 90Q of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. AHIMS contains information and records related to registered Aboriginal archaeological sites (Aboriginal objects, as defined under the Act) and declared Aboriginal places (as defined under the Act) in NSW.

A search of AHIMS was conducted on 7 February 2012 to identify registered (known) Aboriginal sites or declared Aboriginal places within or adjacent to the study area (AHIMS Client Service ID: 61942).

The AHIMS Web Service database search was conducted within the following coordinates (GDA, Zone 56): Eastings: 0275000 to 0279000 Northings: 6201000 to 6205000 Buffer: 0 metres (the search coordinates included a buffer around the study area)

The AHIMS search results showed: 4 Aboriginal sites are recorded in or near the above location 0 Aboriginal places have been declared in or near the above location

The type and distribution of recorded Aboriginal sites within these coordinates are shown in Figure 2. The frequencies of site types within the AHIMS database search area are shown in Table 1. Table 1. Frequency of site features from AHIMS database search

Site Types Frequency (%) Open artefact scatter 1 25 Shelter with art 3 75 Total 4 100

2.2.2 Other heritage registers and databases Other sources of information including heritage registers and lists were also searched for known Aboriginal heritage in the vicinity of the proposal. These included:  Wollondilly Shire Council Local Environment Plan 2011;  Roads and Maritime Services Heritage Register (accessed 09/02/2012);  Railcorp Heritage Register (accessed 09/02/2012);  Sydney Water Heritage Register (accessed 09/02/2012);  State Heritage Register and State Heritage Inventory (accessed 09/02/2012);  Commonwealth Heritage List (accessed 09/02/2012);  National Heritage List (accessed 09/02/2012);  Register of the National Estate (09/02/2012/2012);  Australian Heritage Places Inventory (accessed 09/02/2012) and  Historic Heritage Information Management System (HHIMS) (08/02/2012).

No items of Aboriginal heritage were listed or registered on these databases within the study area.

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Figure 2. Registered Aboriginal heritage sites near Bargo (AHIMS search results)

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2.2.3 Known Aboriginal heritage in the area As a result of database searches and review of known information sources it was identified that four Aboriginal archaeological sites are located in the vicinity of the study area (Figure 2). These include three rock shelters with art, situated to the north east of Bargo on tributaries of Dogtrap Creek, and one open artefact scatter situated in the south west of Bargo at the Bargo sports ground between two tributaries of Hornes Creek. Registered sites are listed in Table 2. Table 2. Known Aboriginal sites near the study area

AHIMS Site Recorded Site Name Site ID Datum Zone Easting Northing Context Site Types Feature by Bargo 52-2-1538 AGD 56 278780 6204460 Enclosed ART Shelter with art Bluff Bargo 52-2-1539 AGD 56 278750 6204350 Enclosed ART Shelter with art Bluff Bargo 52-2-1540 AGD 56 278010 6204650 Enclosed ART Shelter with art Bluff Bargo Sports Open artefact Ground – 52-2-3872 GDA 56 277077 6202261 Open AFT Unknown scatter AFT001

52-2-1538 - Bargo This site was recorded in October 1990 by Warren Bluff during a private, amateur survey of the area. The site was a sandstone rock shelter with art located along the creek bed gully of an unnamed tributary of Dogtrap Creek, approximately 1.5km north east of the subsidised service area boundary. The shelter contained red pigment hand and foot stencils and black charcoal drawings, namely three black infilled anthropomorphs and three red pigment stencils comprising two hands and one foot. The site card noted some damage to the art from weathering and graffiti. Bluff also noted the presence of a piece of quartz at the site, although it was not described as being artefactual.

52-2-1539 - Bargo This site was also recorded by Bluff during his investigation of the area in October 1990. Located approximately 150m south of 52-2-1538 on the same creek line and approximately 1.5km north east of the study area, the site was also a sandstone rock shelter containing red and black art including a black drawn snake, one red and two black drawn complex non-figurative motifs and three unidentifiable lines. No artefacts were observed at the time of recording. The art appeared damaged by foot traffic and use of the site for modern camping.

52-2-1540 - Bargo This site was located around 1km north east of the study area, on a different tributary of Dogtrap Creek. Bluff recorded this site in October 1990, describing it as a small rock shelter in the creek bed containing black charcoal art consisting of four unidentifiable lines. The site card noted no artefacts were observed. Observed impact to this shelter was natural erosion and weathering rather than any human activities.

52-2-3872 – Bargo Sports Ground – AFT001 This site was located in the south of Bargo township near the Bargo sports ground, approximately 200m west of the study area. The site was recorded in August 2011 and consisted of an open artefact scatter of three artefacts. The site card was unavailable at AHIMS and as such, further background information about the site was unavailable at the time of desktop review. The site was investigated further during the next step (visual inspection) of the due diligence assessment process.

Summary From the database searches and review of associated background information, there were no known Aboriginal objects (sites) within the study area (i.e. treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area, pumping station or subsidised service area and transfer main alignments). However, adjoining landscapes contain archaeological sites and areas of archaeological potential.

Known archaeological sites in the vicinity of the study area consist of rock shelters containing art, located in the incised sandstone creek beds and gullies associated with small tributaries of Dogtrap Creek to the north east of Bargo. One open artefact scatter has also been recorded.

Only one of these sites has been recorded within around 200m of the study area. Site 52-2-3872, an open artefact scatter, was recorded at the Bargo sports ground in the south west of Bargo, approximately 200m west of the subsidised service area boundary.

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2.3 Landscape assessment

The study area covered ridge crest and upper slope contexts across Ashfield Shale and Hawkesbury Sandstone geology approximately 2km east of the Bargo River. The study area is bordered to the west by Hornes Creek, a tributary of Bargo Creek. To the east of Bargo, several first and second order tributaries run east through shallow open depressions to Dogtrap Creek, also a tributary of Bargo Creek. In the north of the study area lie the headwaters of Teatree Hollow Creek. The majority of the study area consisted of gentle to moderate slopes across the ridge crest.

Soils across the study area developed in situ from the underlying shale and sandstone geology. The majority of Bargo is covered by the Blacktown soil landscape, consisting of shallow to moderate deep soil with low susceptibility to erosion. The margins of Bargo consisted of the Lucas Heights soil landscape, a moderately deep and stony soil (Hazelton and Tille 1990).

2.4 Impact Avoidance

The placement of the proposal would be designed to cause as minimal environmental impact as possible. The majority of the proposed reticulation and transfer main network would be located along existing road easements. The proposed wastewater pumping station, wastewater treatment plant and irrigation area are located on less disturbed rural lands with minor drainage lines.

2.5 Desktop review summary

The desktop review and assessment combined the results of heritage register searches, previous investigations and landscape assessment. Desktop modelling identified low to moderate levels of archaeological potential based on the presence of previously recorded sites, suitable landforms and levels of disturbance within the study area.

In summary, no Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places were identified through the desktop review within the study area.

One Aboriginal archaeological site, open artefact scatter AHIMS site # 52-2-3872, was identified around 200m west of the subsidised service area boundary, at the sports ground in the south of Bargo (Figure 3).

Visual inspection of the study area was the next step of the due diligence assessment process.

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Figure 3. Known Aboriginal sites near the study area

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2.6 Visual inspection

The study area was inspected and assessed on 20 June and 21 September 2012. Visual inspection was undertaken with a representative of Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council and included pedestrian inspection of the reticulation network within the servicing area boundary, proposed location of the wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area, proposed pumping station site, transfer main alignment and the variable grade sewer connecting the reticulation network to the pumping station.

No Aboriginal archaeological sites were identified within the study area.

The proposed wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area, to the north west of Bargo, is located on agricultural land. The landscape in this area is fairly flat and featureless with a gentle slope to the north (Plate 1). Two ephemeral tributaries run in a northerly direction (Plate 2). Tributary courses are ephemeral and barely incised, forming the headwaters of Teatree Hollow Creek. Flows were characterised as low energy and intermittent. Several small dams have been constructed along the drainage lines (Plate 3). Landscape characteristics indicated no likely focal point for Aboriginal occupation.

Plate 1. Facing east across proposed irrigation area Plate 2. Ephemeral tributary in the proposed irrigation area, facing north from dam wall

Plate 3. Landscape modification in proposed irrigation Plate 4. Ripped ground surface in proposed irrigation area, facing east area, facing west

Scribbly gum eucalypt species of moderate age range were scattered throughout the irrigation area. All trees of a moderate to older age range were inspected for scars. No scarred trees were identified. One outcrop of sandstone was located in the north west corner of the irrigation area and adjacent to a low energy, first order tributary and small dam. No evidence of grinding grooves or engravings was identified on the sandstone outcrop. Modification of the ground surface had occurred during construction of the dam in this area.

Low to moderate subsurface disturbance occurred throughout the property. What appeared to be an old house/farm structure site was located on the southern boundary of the main irrigation area. In this location, soil had been raised and leveled for construction of foundations, however no remnants of the structure survive. Agricultural ripping of the soils was evident across the landscape (Plate 4) and earthworks associated with dam construction had also affected the ground surface.

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Transfer main installation is proposed along the road verge of Remembrance Driveway and Great Southern Road. Remembrance Driveway demonstrated subsurface disturbance caused by road construction and associated drainage works that have cut into the ground surface along the verge. Vegetation clearance had occurred adjacent to the road verge during installation of an electricity easement. The transfer main crosses the railway at an existing drainage tunnel and continues along the verge of Great Southern Road to the proposed pumping station at 95 Great Southern Road. The road verge had also seen significant subsurface disturbance from underground service installation and road construction works.

The property at 95 Great Southern Road was characterised as a pastoral paddock with low gradient slope to the northeast (Plate 5). A low energy, intermittent drainage line runs to the north of the property. No Aboriginal objects were visible at the proposed pumping station site and the featureless landscape of the property suggests no focal point for Aboriginal occupation and therefore low potential for significant objects to be present.

Plate 5. Proposed pumping station area at 95 Great Southern Road

The reticulation network and pipeline within the subsidised service area was assessed as highly modified residential areas. The visual inspection was limited to public access road sides, parks and laneways within the service area and no private residential dwellings were accessed during the inspection. A significant level of subsurface disturbance was demonstrated across all roadsides. Road and residential construction and the installation of underground services have likely removed any trace of Aboriginal occupation in the area (Plates 6 and 7).

Plate 6. Roadside disturbance in servicing area Plate 7. Existing underground services in servicing area

One archaeological site, an artefact scatter (AHIMS # 52-2-3872) was confirmed outside of the study area, at the Bargo Sports Ground. This site was located near the juncture of a second order creek and first order tributary that drains northward into Hornes Creek.

It is likely that Aboriginal occupation of the region was focused toward resource zones of larger creeks and tributaries with more reliable water flow. Sandstone shelters within the region were also likely to draw Aboriginal people to inhabitation or periodic use. Three of the four sites in the region have been recorded at rock shelters, whereas the open artefact scatter recorded within 200m of the study area is located on a larger and more permanent water source.

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2.7 Consultation with Local Aboriginal Land Council

According to the Code of Practice, consultation with the Aboriginal community is not a formal requirement of the due diligence process. However, Sydney Water considered that consultation with the local Aboriginal community at this early stage would assist in the decision-making process. Sydney Water sought to undertake the due diligence assessment process in consultation with the relevant Local Aboriginal Land Council and any registered native title holder(s) or claimant(s) identified in the National Native Title Register to identify any sites or issues of cultural significance.

The assessment was undertaken in consultation with Tharawal Local Aboriginal Land Council. Neale Sampson represented the Land Council for the visual inspection of the study area, including confirming the location of the open artefact scatter site at the sports ground (AHIMS site number 52-2-3872).

The findings of the desktop review and visual inspection were discussed during the inspection. No specific cultural values or issues were identified for the reticulation network within the subsidised service area boundary, proposed wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area, transfer main alignment, proposed pumping station site at 95 Great Southern Road or variable grade sewer connecting the reticulation network to the pumping station.

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3 Legislative Considerations

The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 is the primary statutory control dealing with Aboriginal heritage in New South Wales. Items of Aboriginal heritage (Aboriginal objects) or declared Aboriginal places are protected and regulated under the Act.

An “Aboriginal object” is defined under the Act as “any deposit, object or material evidence (not being a handicraft made for sale) relating to the Aboriginal habitation of the area that comprises New South Wales, being habitation before or concurrent with (or both) the occupation of that area by persons of non-Aboriginal extraction, and includes Aboriginal remains”. As such, Aboriginal objects are confined to physical evidence and are commonly referred to as Aboriginal sites.

It is an offence to harm or desecrate an Aboriginal object, either knowingly [section 86 (1)] or unknowingly [section 86 (2)]. Harm includes to destroy, deface, damage or move. An Aboriginal heritage impact permit (AHIP) issued under section 90 (1) of the Act is required for any activity which will harm an Aboriginal object or declared Aboriginal place.

Section 87 (2) of the Act provides a defence against prosecution under section 86 (2) if “the defendant exercised due diligence to determine whether the act or omission constituting the alleged offence would harm an Aboriginal object and reasonably determined that no Aboriginal object would be harmed”. This defence appears to specifically relate to Aboriginal objects.

This Bargo wastewater scheme due diligence assessment report was commissioned to:  exercise due diligence in relation to Aboriginal objects;  comply with the requirements of the Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales (DECCW, September 2010);  identify if the proposed activity would harm an Aboriginal object and, if so, what measures can be taken to avoid that harm; and  reasonably determine that no Aboriginal object would be harmed.

No Aboriginal objects were identified within the study area for the Bargo wastewater scheme and it has been reasonably determined based on assessment of levels of disturbance and landforms and visual inspection that no Aboriginal objects will be harmed by the proposal as defined in this report.

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4 Conclusions and Recommendations

No Aboriginal archaeological sites, Aboriginal objects or declared Aboriginal places were identified within the study area associated with the proposed Bargo wastewater scheme.  Due diligence assessment of the study area did not identify the potential for harm to occur to Aboriginal objects.  No Aboriginal archaeological objects/sites were identified within the study area.

The significant disturbance of ground surfaces in the study area associated with residential and commercial development, road and rail, existing underground services and drainage works has impacted the likely survival of Aboriginal heritage. The proposed transfer main and subsidised service area has been heavily impacted by development of the township of Bargo and it is unlikely that Aboriginal sites remain along road corridors in these areas.

The proposed wastewater pumping station site exhibited no surface manifestations of Aboriginal objects and the landform displayed no significant archaeological potential.

The relatively undisturbed agricultural land of the proposed wastewater treatment plant and subsurface irrigation area had greater potential for archaeological survival. However, the landform suggests that sites are unlikely to occur due to the largely flat and featureless landscape and ephemeral first order tributaries.

According to the OEH Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales the proposed Bargo wastewater scheme can proceed with caution.

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References

DECCW, 24 September 2010. Code of Practice for Archaeological Investigation of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales: Part 6 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney.

DECCW, September 2010. Due Diligence Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Sydney.

DECCW, April 2010. Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010: Part 6 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney.

Hazelton, P.A., and Tille, P.J., 1990. Soil Landscapes of the Wollongong-Port Hacking 1:100,000 Sheet. Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney.

Hazelton, P.A. and Tille, P.J., 1990. Wollongong – Port Hacking Soil Landscapes Series Sheet 9029-9129. Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney.

Stroud, W.J., Sherwin, L., Roy, H.N. and Baker, C.J., 1985, Wollongong – Port Hacking 1:100,000 Geological Sheet 9029- 9129, 1st Edition. Geological Survey of New South Wales, Sydney.

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Appendix A AHIMS Search Results

19 AHIMS Web Services (AWS) Search Result Your Ref Number : 1116 Bargo Client Service ID : 61942

Kelleher Nightingale Consulting Pty Ltd Date: 07 February 2012 suite 911-912 155 King Street Sydney New South Wales 2000 Attention: Kylie Mcdonald Email: [email protected] Dear Sir or Madam: AHIMS Web Service search for the following area at Datum :GDA, Zone : 56, Eastings : 275000 - 279000, Northings : 6201000 - 6205000 with a Buffer of 0 meters. conducted by Kylie Mcdonald on 07 February 2012 A search of the Office of the Environment and Heritage AHIMS Web Services (Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System) has shown that: 4 Aboriginal sites are recorded in or near the above location. 0 Aboriginal places have been declared in or near the above location. * If your search shows Aboriginal sites or places what should you do? You must do an extensive search if AHIMS has shown that there are Aboriginal sites or places recorded in the search area. If you are checking AHIMS as a part of your due diligence, refer to the next steps of the Due Diligence Code of practice. You can get further information about Aboriginal places by looking at the gazettal notice that declared it. Aboriginal places gazetted after 2001 are available on the NSW Government Gazette (http://www.nsw.gov.au/gazette) website. Gazettal notices published prior to 2001 can be obtained from Office of Environment and Heritage's Aboriginal Heritage Information Unit upon request Important information about your AHIMS search The information derived from the AHIMS search is only to be used for the purpose for which it was requested. It is not be made available to the public. AHIMS records information about Aboriginal sites that have been provided to Office of Environment and Heritage and Aboriginal places that have been declared by the Minister; Information recorded on AHIMS may vary in its accuracy and may not be up to date .Location details are recorded as grid references and it is important to note that there may be errors or omissions in these recordings, Some parts of New South Wales have not been investigated in detail and there may be fewer records of Aboriginal sites in those areas. These areas may contain Aboriginal sites which are not recorded on AHIMS. Aboriginal objects are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 even if they are not recorded as a site on AHIMS. This search can form part of your due diligence and remains valid for 12 months.

PO BOX 1967 Hurstville NSW 2220 ABN 30 841 387 271 43 BridgeStreet HURSTVILLE NSW 2220 Email: [email protected] Tel: (02)9585 6345 (02)9585 6741 Fax: (02)9585 6094 Web: www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Sydney Water Corporation Review of Environmental Factors – Bargo Wastewater Scheme

Appendix E Land Capability Assessment

Ref: 433990 January 2013 Final