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Figure 13.Vegetation associations identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area A.

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Figure 14. Vegetation associations identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area B.

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Figure 15. Vegetation associations identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area C.

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Figure 16. Vegetation conditions identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area A.

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Figure 17. Vegetation conditions identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area B.

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Figure 18. Vegetation conditions identified across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area – Area C.

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Association 1: +/- Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine) +/- Melaleuca lanceolata (Dryland Tea-tree) +/- Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) +/- Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee) Mixed Woodland / Mallee.

Table 22. Summary of vegetation association 1. Common native overstorey and Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Beyeria lechenaultii (Pale midstorey species Turpentine Bush), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine), Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee), Melaleuca lanceolata (Dryland Tea-tree).

Common native understorey Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry), Aristida holathera var. holathera species (Tall Kerosene Grass), Cymbopogon ambiguus (Lemon-grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush), Enneapogon nigricans (Black- head Grass), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy), Wahlenbergia sp. (Blue bell).

Common weed species Carrichtera annua (Ward's Weed), Carthamus lanatus (Saffron Thistle), Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn) and Marrubium vulgare (Horehound)

Conservation significant Possible species

Vegetation condition Good (8:1) to Excellent (10:1) Association 1 occurs in two locations within Area A primarily on steep rocky outcrops. Association 1 was considered to be in good to excellent condition Comments with high native flora species diversity. There is potential for threatened flora species (e.g. orchids) in the high quality areas.

Figure 19. Example of vegetation association 1.

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Association 2: Acacia argyrophylla (Silver Mulga-bush) / Senna artemisioides (Desert Senna) +/- Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens (Bullock Bush) Shrubland.

Table 23. Summary of vegetation association 2. Common native overstorey and Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak ), Acacia argyrophylla (Silver midstorey species Mulga-bush), Senna artemisioides (Desert Senna), Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens (Bullock Bush)

Common native understorey Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head species Grass), Vittadinia cuneata var. (Fuzzy new Holland Daisy), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Oat), Arctotheca calendula (Cape Weed), Briza maxima (Large Quaking-grass), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Salvia verbenaca var. (Wild Sage), Carrichtera annua (Ward’s Weed)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Poor (4:1)

Figure 20. Example of vegetation association 2.

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Association 3: Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa) Tall Shrubland.

Table 24. Summary of vegetation association 3. Common native overstorey and Acacia calamifolia (Wallowa), Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle), midstorey species Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine), Cassinia laevis (Curry Bush), Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum)

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Brush Wire-grass), Austrostipa blackii (Crested Spear- species grass), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Gonocarpus elatus (Hill Raspwort), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia cuneata (Fuzzy New Holland Daisy), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy), Wahlenbergia stricta (Tall Bluebell)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Vulpia sp. (Fescue)

Conservation significant Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA : R) species Mentha diemenica (Slender Mint) (SA : R)

Vegetation condition Poor (4:1) to Excellent (10:1) High native flora species diversity and potential for threatened flora species Comment (e.g. orchids) in areas of good to excellent vegetation condition.

Figure 21. Example of vegetation association 3.

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Association 4: Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland.

Table 25. Summary of vegetation association 4. Common native overstorey and Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens (Bullock Bush), Allocasuarina verticillata midstorey species (Drooping Sheoak), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Pittosporum angustifolium (Native Apricot)

Common native understorey Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry), Aristida behriana (Brush Wire- species grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Gahnia lanigera (Black Grass Saw-sedge), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia cuneata (Fuzzy New Holland Daisy), Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta (Tall Bluebell)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Carthamus lanatus (Saffron Thistle), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Marrubium vulgare (Horehound), Onopordum acaulon (Horse Thistle), Reichardia tingitana (False Sowthistle)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Poor (3:1) to Good (8:1)

Figure 22. Example of vegetation association 4.

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Association 5: Eucalyptus brachycalyx (Gilja) / Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box) / Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee) Mixed Mallee over Triodia irritans (Spinifex).

Table 26. Summary of vegetation association 5. Common native overstorey and Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa midstorey species (Sweet Bursaria), Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine), Eremophila alternifolia (Narrow-leaf Emubush), Eucalyptus brachycalyx (Gilja), Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box), Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee)

Common native understorey Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry), Arthropodium strictum (Common species Vanilla-lily), Austrostipa scabra (Falcate-awn Spear-grass), Gahnia lanigera (Black Grass Saw-sedge), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta (Tall Bluebell), Triodia irritans (Spinifex)

Common weed species Carrichtera annua (Ward's Weed), Nicotiana glauca (Tree Tobacco)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Excellent (10:1)

Figure 23. Example of vegetation association 5.

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Association 6: Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) Creeklines.

Table 27. Summary of vegetation association 6. Common native overstorey and Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Eucalyptus camaldulensis midstorey species ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum)

Common native understorey Austrostipa drummondii (Cottony Spear-grass), Bolboschoenus medianus species (Marsh Club-rush), Cotula coronopifolia (Water Buttons), Cyperus gymnocaulos (Spiny Flat-sedge), Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush), Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons), Typha sp. (Bulrush)

Common weed species Arctotheca calendula (Cape Weed), Asphodelus fistulosus (Onion Weed), Bromus diandrus (Great Brome), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Piptatherum miliaceum (Rice Millet)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (2:1) to Good (7:1)

Figure 24. Example of vegetation association 6.

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Association 7: Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland over Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa).

Table 28. Summary of vegetation association 7. Common native overstorey and Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa), Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) midstorey species

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Bush-wire Grass), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head species Grass), Gonocarpus elatus (Hill Raspwort), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia cuneata var. (Fuzzy New Holland Daisy), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Arctotheca calendula (Cape Weed), Avena sp. (Oats), Briza maxima (Large Quaking Grass), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Erodium botrys (Long Heron’s-bill), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Trifolium angustifolium (Narrow-leaf Clover) Vulpia myuros f. (Fescue)

Conservation significant Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA : R) species

Vegetation condition Moderate (5:1) to Good (8:1)

Figure 25. Example of vegetation association 7.

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Association 8: Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland over exotic / native Grassland.

Table 29. Summary of vegetation association 8. Common native overstorey and Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) midstorey species

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Brush Wire-grass), Austrostipa sp. (Spear grass), species Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia cuneata (Fuzzy New Holland Daisy), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild Oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Erodium botrys (Long Heron's-bill), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Trifolium angustifolium (Narrow-leaf Clover)

Conservation significant Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA : R) species Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails) (SA : R) Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1 to 2:1)

Figure 26. Example of vegetation association 8.

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Association 9: Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland.

Table 30. Summary of vegetation association 9. Common native overstorey and Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box), Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum), midstorey species Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria)

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Brush Wire-grass), Austrostipa blackii (Crested Spear- species grass), Austrostipa nodosa (Tall Spear-grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentose (Ruby Saltbush), Maireana enchylaenoides (Wingless Fissure- plant), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild Oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Erodium botrys (Long Heron's-bill), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Trifolium angustifolium (Narrow-leaf Clover)

Conservation significant Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA : R) species Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails) (SA : R)

Vegetation condition Very Poor (2:1) to Poor (4:1)

Figure 27. Example of vegetation association 9.

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Association 10: Eucalyptus phenax ssp. phenax (White Mallee) / Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee) Mixed Mallee.

Table 31. Summary of vegetation association 10. Common native overstorey and Beyeria lechenaultii (Pale Turpentine Bush), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa midstorey species (Sweet Bursaria), Dodonaea viscosa (Sticky Hop-bush), Eucalyptus phenax ssp. phenax (White Mallee), Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee)

Common native understorey Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry), Arthropodium strictum (Common species Vanilla-lily), Rytidosperma erianthum (Hill Wallaby-grass), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Gahnia lanigera (Black Grass Saw-sedge), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta (Tall Bluebell)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Carrichtera annua (Ward's Weed), Carthamus lanatus (Saffron Thistle), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Marrubium vulgare (Horehound), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion)

Conservation significant Possible species

Vegetation condition Moderate (6:1)

Figure 28. Example of vegetation association 10.

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Association 11: Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box) Open Woodland.

Table 32. Summary of vegetation association 11. Common native overstorey and Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens (Bullock Bush), Eucalyptus porosa midstorey species (Mallee Box), Senna artemisioides (Desert Senna)

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Brush Wire-grass), Austrostipa sp. (Spear grass), species Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush), Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Trifolium angustifolium (Narrow-leaf Clover)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Poor (4:1)

Figure 29. Example of vegetation association 11.

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Association 12: Exotic / native Grassland.

Table 33. Summary of vegetation association 12. Common native overstorey and None present midstorey species

Common native understorey Aristida contorta (Curly Wire-grass), Rytidosperma sp. (Wallaby Grass), species Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Gonocarpus elatus (Hill Raspwort), Oxalis perennans (Native Sorrel) Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy- tails), Vittadinia cuneata var. (Fuzzy New Holland Daisy), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy), Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta (Tall Bluebell)

Common weed species Aira sp. (Hair Grass), Arctotheca calendula (Cape Weed), Avena sp. (Oats), Briza maxima (Large Quaking-grass), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Carthamus lanatus (Saffron Thistle), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Ehrharta longiflora (Annual Veldt Grass), Erodium botrys (Long Heron's-bill) Festuca sp. (Fescue) Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Lagurus ovatus (Hare's Tail Grass), Lolium rigidum (Wimmera Ryegrass), Marrubium vulgare (Horehound), Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha (Burr-medic), Moraea setifolia (Thread Iris)

Conservation significant Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA : R) species Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails) (SA : R)

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1) to Moderate (6:1)

Figure 30. Example of vegetation association 12.

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Association 13: Exotic / native Grassland scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum).

Table 34. Summary of vegetation association 13. Common native overstorey and Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) (scattered), midstorey species Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (scattered)

Common native understorey Aristida behriana (Brush Wire-grass) Vittadinia cuneata var. (Fuzzy New species Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Aira sp. (Hair-grass), Arctotheca calendula (Cape Weed), Briza maxima (Large Quaking-grass), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Carthamus lanatus (Saffron Thistle), Echium plantagineum (Salvation Jane), Erodium botrys (Long Heron's-bill), Festuca sp. (Fescue), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1 to 2:1)

Figure 31. Example of vegetation association 13.

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Association 14: Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush) Drainage Areas.

Table 35. Summary of vegetation association 14. Common native overstorey and Juncus pallidus (Pale Rush), Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush) midstorey species

Common native understorey Gonocarpus elatus (Hill Raspwort), Rumex brownii (Slender Dock) species

Common weed species Avena sp. (Oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Erodium botrys (Long Heron's-bill), Festuca sp. (Fescue), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Lagurus ovatus (Hare's Tail Grass), Lolium rigidum (Wimmera Ryegrass), Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha (Burr-medic), Onopordum acanthium (Scotch Thistle), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover), Trifolium angustifolium (Narrow-leaf Clover)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1) to Poor (4:1)

Figure 32. Example of vegetation association 14.

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Association 15: Planted vegetation / Revegetation.

Table 36. Summary of vegetation association 15. Common exotic overstorey and Common species in planted areas: Bougainvillea sp. (Bougainvillea), Phoenix midstorey species canariensis (Canary Island Palm), Prunus dulcis (Almond), Prunus sp. (Fruit tree), Schinus molle (Pepper-tree), Tamarix aphylla (Athel Pine)

Common species in revegetation areas: Acacia paradoxa (Kangaroo Thorn), Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle), Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Carrichtera annua (Ward's Weed), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion), Vulpia myuros (Fescue)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1)

Figure 33. Example of vegetation association 15 (top – planted (exotic); bottom – revegetation).

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Association 16: Scattered Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush) / Exotic / native Grassland.

Table 37. Summary of vegetation association 16. Common native overstorey and Acacia argyrophylla (Silver Mulga-bush) (Scattered), Senna artemisioides midstorey species (Desert Senna) (Scattered)

Common native understorey Aristida contorta (Curly Wire-grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa species (Ruby Saltbush), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush), Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Aira sp. (Hair-grass), Avena sp. (Wild oats), Carrichtera annua (Ward's Weed), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion), Vulpia myuros (Fescue)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1) to Good (8:1)

Figure 34. Example of vegetation association 16.

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Association 17: Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata (Rock Grass-tree) / Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) Open Shrubland.

Table 38. Summary of vegetation association 17. Common native overstorey and Acacia calamifolia (Wallowa), Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), midstorey species Dodonaea viscosa (Sticky Hop-bush), Pittosporum angustifolium (Native Apricot), Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata (Rock Grass-tree)

Common native understorey Acaena echinata (Sheep's Burr), Aristida contorta (Curly Wire-grass), species Austrostipa scabra (Falcate-awn Spear-grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush), Ptilotus spathulatus (Pussy-tails), Vittadinia gracilis (Woolly New Holland Daisy)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Wild oats), Bromus rubens (Red Brome), Hordeum vulgare (Barley), Reichardia tingitana (False Sowthistle), Trifolium arvense var. arvense (Hare's-foot Clover)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Poor (4:1) to Moderate (6:1)

Figure 35. Example of vegetation association 17.

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Association 18: Phragmites australis (Common Reed) +/- Juncus spp. (Rush) and Cyperus gymnocaulos (Flat-sedge) Sedgeland.

Table 39. Summary of vegetation association 18. Common native overstorey and Phragmites australis (Common Reed) midstorey species

Common native understorey Cyperus gymnocaulos (Spiny Flat-sedge), Cyperus vaginatus (Stiff Flat- species sedge), Juncus kraussii (Sea Rush), Juncus pallidus (Pale Rush), Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush).

Common weed species Chondrilla juncea (Skeleton Weed), Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta (Common Evening Primrose), Phalaris sp. (Canary Grass), Rosa canina (Dog Rose),

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Very Poor (1:1)

Figure 36. Example of vegetation association 18.

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Association 19: Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine) Tall Closed Shrubland over Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush) and exotic grasses.

Table 40. Summary of vegetation association 19. Common native overstorey and Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine) midstorey species

Common native understorey Austrostipa sp. (Spear-grass), Austrostipa elegantissima (Feather Spear- species grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush), Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush), Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush), Rytidosperma sp. (Wallaby-grass)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Oat), Brassica tournefortii (Wild Turnip), Piptatherum miliaceum (Rice Millet), Salvia verbenaca var. (Wild Sage), Scabiosa atropurpurea (Pincushion)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Poor (3:1) to Moderate (5:1)

Figure 37. Example of vegetation association 19.

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Association 20: Planted Eucalyptus gracilis (Yorrell), Eucalyptus incrassata (Ridge-fruited Mallee), Eucalyptus socialis ssp. (Red Mallee) with a remnant mix of Senna artemisioides ssp. coriacea (Desert Senna) over indigenous and exotic grasses +/- Chenopod Shrubland.

Table 41. Summary of vegetation association 20. Common native overstorey and Eucalyptus gracilis (Yorrell), Eucalyptus incrassata (Ridge-fruited Mallee), midstorey species Eucalyptus socialis ssp. (Red Mallee), Senna artemisioides ssp. coriacea (Desert Senna)

Common native understorey Austrostipa sp. (Spear-grass), Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa (Ruby species Saltbush), Enneapogon nigricans (Black-head Grass), Maireana brevifolia (Short-leaf Bluebush), Rytidosperma sp. (Wallaby-grass)

Common weed species Avena sp. (Oat), Brassica tournefortii (Wild Turnip), Piptatherum miliaceum (Rice Millet), Salvia verbenaca var. (Wild Sage), Scabiosa atropurpurea (Pincushion)

Conservation significant None species

Vegetation condition Moderate (5:1)

Figure 38. Example of vegetation association 20.

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6.3 Threatened ecological communities

Two EPBC listed ecological communities were identified within the project area:

 Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia  Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland of South Australia.

6.3.1 Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia

Thirteen patches of Lomandra grassland located in Areas A and C were assessed against the criteria outlined in EPBC Act Policy Statement 3.7, Nationally Threatened Species and Ecological Communities, Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland of South Australia and Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia (Figure 39).

Lomandra patch 7 qualified as condition class B (Figure 40). Patch 12 is considered highly likely to be condition class B but was not assessed at the best time of the year. Eight sites qualified as condition class C. A summary of each site assessed is provided in Table 42. Two additional areas of Lomandra grassland were identified within area B (Figure 41) during the overhead transmission assessment conducted in January 2014. These areas are considered to potentially meet the minimum requirements for condition class B but have yet to be assessed against the criteria at a suitable time of year. These additional areas were not given patch numbers due to summer conditions however tussock density is greater than 10% cover in places within the patch. This indicates that further assessment needs to be undertaken.

Lomandra patch 7 (Figure 40) meets the minimum requirements for condition class B and is therefore protected under the EPBC act. National protection means any new or intensified activities that may or are likely to have a significant impact upon this community should be referred to the Australian Minister for the Environment and Water Resources for assessment and approval (unless they are subject to an exception under the EPBC Act). Activities that may have a significant impact include, but are not restricted to, clearing of remnants or supporting vegetation, grazing, introducing excessive nutrients to remnants and introducing potentially invasive pasture species into the proximity of remnants (DEWR 2007).

Condition Class C areas are typically significantly degraded (low condition) occurring in grazing land, are not included as a listed Ecological Community and therefore do not trigger the ‘significant test’ of the EPBC Act. Condition Class C areas are still considered to be amenable to rehabilitation through measures such as weed control, natural regeneration and protection from grazing. Patches 3 and 9 did not have the greater than five native species required to classify as a class C, therefore no further assessment in those areas was required.

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Table 42. Assessment of Grassland communities containing Lomandra.

No. of No. of Diversity E/N Patch broad- native Tussock Condition Patch Size of native location Area leaved perennial count class rating number (Ha) plant (WG S84) herbaceous grass (per m) species species^ species

337451, 1 A 1.01 9 1 3 - C 6160919 337736, 2 A 1.8 12 3 3 - C 6159527 Does not meet the 337129, 3 A 8.8 0 0 0 - criteria for 6159164 condition class C 336004, 4 A 4.13 11 2 2 - C 6158665 337305, 5 A 6.12 10 1 2 - C 6158235 336296, 6 A 9 8 2 2 - C 6156527 336695, 7 A .88 21 4 4 >1 B 6156292 330975, 8 C 1.9 5 0 3 - C 6135791 Does not meet the 331007, 9 C 4.4 3 0 1 - criteria for 6135843 condition class C 336750, 10 A 2.3 10 1 3 - C 6156208 336743, 11 A 2.3 6 1 1 - C 6156139 336739, Highly likely 12 A >1 14 5 4 >1 6156028 B 330541, 13 C 4.92 5 1 1 - C 6138068 ^ in addition to identified disturbance resistant species

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Figure 39. Lomandra Grassland assessment areas.

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Figure 40. Example of Lomandra grassland assessment patch number 7, condition class B.

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Figure 41. Additional areas of Lomandra grassland identified within area B.

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6.3.2 Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland of South Australia

Six sites within Area C of Peppermint Box were assessed against the criteria outlined in EPBC Act Policy Statement 3.7, Nationally Threatened Species and Ecological Communities, Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland of South Australia and Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia. A summary of each site assessed is provided in Table 43.

None of the sites assessed qualified as class A or B, therefore are not listed as the nationally Threatened Ecological Community. Four sites, 1, 2, 4 and 5 (Figure 42 and Figure 43) qualified as Condition Class C areas.

Condition Class C areas are typically significantly degraded (low condition) occurring in grazing land, are not included as a listed Ecological Community and therefore do not trigger the ‘significant test’ of the EPBC Act. Condition Class C areas are still considered to be amenable to rehabilitation through measures such as weed control, natural regeneration and protection from grazing. Site 3 did not meet the species diversity criteria to classify as class C, therefore no further assessment in this area was required.

Table 43. Assessment of Peppermint Box communities.

Peppermint Size Diversity of No. of broad-leaved No. of native Condition class rating Box patch native plant herbaceous species perennial number (Ha) species in addition to grass species identified disturbance resistant species

1 10.7 12 3 4 C

2 10.7 7 2 2 C Does not meet the criteria 3 0.47 4 0 0 for condition class C 4 2.51 13 4 4 C

5 2.51 9 2 3 C Does not meet the criteria 6 0.59 5 0 2 for condition class C

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Figure 42. Peppermint Box assessment areas.

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Figure 43. Example of Peppermint Box assessment patch number 5, condition class C.

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6.4 Flora species

6.4.1 Overall

A total of 155 native flora species and 94 exotic flora species were recorded within the project area (Appendix 3).

6.4.2 Threatened flora

Three conservation rated flora species were identified within vegetation assessments completed within the proposed Palmer Wind Farm project area (Figure 44).

 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) - State rare – occurs as very scattered large trees within Area C  Mentha diemenica (Slender Mint) - State rare – observed at one location within Area A  Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails) - State rare – observed in various locations as scattered individual within Area C.

6.4.3 Weeds

Ninety four exotic species were observed within the project site. Fourteen of these species are classed as Declared under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004, and a further 22 were considered environmental weeds (Table 44).

Landholders are obliged to control declared weeds on their property, as they are known to cause significant economic, social and environmental impacts. Environmental weeds have the potential to cause significant environmental impacts, however their control is not legislated.

Table 44. Declared and environmental weeds located within the project site. Scientific Name Common Name Declared Environmental Acacia cyclops Western Coastal Wattle 

Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed 

Asparagus asparagoides f. Bridal Creeper  asparagoides  Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed 

Avena sp. Oat 

Carrichtera annua Ward's Weed 

Chondrilla juncea Skeleton Weed 

Convolvulus arvensis Field Bindweed 

Cynara cardunculus ssp. flavescens Artichoke Thistle 

Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Couch 

Echium plantagineum Salvation Jane 

Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt Grass 

Foeniculum vulgare Fennel 

Fraxinus angustifolia ssp. angustifolia Desert Ash 

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Scientific Name Common Name Declared Environmental Hordeum vulgare Barley 

Hypericum perforatum St Johns Wort 

Lolium rigidum Wimmera Ryegrass 

Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn 

Marrubium vulgare Horehound 

Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta Common Evening Primrose 

Olea europaea ssp. europaea Olive 

Opuntia sp. Prickly Pear 

Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine   Piptatherum miliaceum Rice Millet 

Romulea rosea var. australis Common Onion Grass

Rosa canina Dog Rose   Salix sp. Willow 

Salvia verbenaca var. Wild Sage 

Scabiosa atropurpurea Pincushion 

Schinus molle Pepper-tree 

Senecio pterophorus African Daisy 

Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade 

Tamarix aphylla Athel Pine 

Taraxacum officinale Dandelion 

Ulex europaeus Gorse 

Status Declared - Declared plant under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 Environmental - Environmental weed (DPTI Environmental Weeds List)

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Figure 44. Threatened flora observations within project area.

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6.5 Fauna species

6.5.1 Terrestrial native fauna species

Non-avian terrestrial fauna were opportunistically recorded, including record of the number of individuals observed and a GPS location of the observation. A number of reptile species were recorded that were not identified during BDBSA searches, such as the Sleepy Lizard (Tiliqua rugosa) (7 individuals), Eastern Bearded Dragon (Pogona barbata) (11 individuals), Tree Skink (Egernia striolata) (7 individuals) and the Southern Spiny-Tailed Gecko (Strophurus intermedius) (1 individual) (Table 45). None of these species have a conservation rating and can be classed as common in suitable habitats.

The Common Froglet (Crinia signifera) was heard calling along a number of creeklines during the August 2013 survey. The Common Froglet is one of the most encountered species of frog in South Australia and would be widespread across much of the site. It does not have a conservation rating. Three native terrestrial mammal species were observed, none of which have a conservation rating (Table 45).

Table 45. Terrestrial native non-avian fauna

Conservation status^ Number Scientific name Common name observed Aus SA Intro

Amphibians

- - - 5 Crinia signifera Common Eastern Froglet Reptiles

- - - 3 Ctenophorus decresii Tawny Dragon - - - 1 Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink - - - 7 Egernia striolata Eastern Tree Skink - - - 1 Morethia adelaidensis Adelaide Snake-eye - - - 11 Pogona barbata Eastern Bearded Dragon - - - 2 Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake - - - 1 Strophurus intermedius Southern Spiny-tailed Gecko - - - 6 Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard Mammals

- - - 2 Lasiorhinus latifrons Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat - - - 5 Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo - - - 5 Macropus robustus Euro ^ Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare.

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Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard

Dedicated surveys were undertaken for the EPBC listed Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard. The majority of the project area consisted of ridge tops and the peaks of small hills. The area had a high surface rock content and lacked spider holes and therefore did not provide preferred Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard habitat. Only relatively small pockets of land were considered to contain suitable Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard habitat. These small areas were usually bordered by steep and/or very rocky terrain. In these small pockets surveys efforts for Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard identified that suitable spider burrows were present at very low densities. No Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizards were recorded, and most of the spider holes had spiders present. It is considered unlikely that the Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard would occur in the project area.

Based on recent records, the closest population is east of Kapunda, approximately 37 km north-west of the northern extent of the proposed Palmer Wind Farm (Figure 45).

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Figure 45. Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard records in relation to Palmer Wind Farm.

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6.5.2 Threatened and migratory avian species

One bird species listed as migratory under the EPBC Act and 10 bird species with a state conservation rating were observed during surveys at the Palmer Wind Farm site. All species are listed below. The threatened and migratory fauna species that were observed within the project area are shown in Figure 46. The threatened birds observed are further described in Section 8.6.

Migratory (EPBC Act)

The list of migratory species established under section 209 of the EPBC Act comprises:

 migratory species which are native to Australia and are included in the appendices to the Bonn Convention (Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals Appendices I and II);  migratory species included in annexes established under the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) and the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA); and

 native migratory species identified in a list established under, or an instrument made under, an international agreement approved by the Minister, such as the Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA).

One bird species observed has a migratory rating under the EPBC Act:  Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus) - listed as migratory under JAMBA and CAMBA (Figure 46).

State threatened

Five of the bird species recorded have a state conservation rating and are shown in Figure 46:

 Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) - rare in SA  Hooded Robin (Melanodryas cucullata cucullata) - rare in SA  Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) - rare in SA (shown in Figure 45)  White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos) - rare in SA  Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata) - vulnerable in SA.

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Figure 46. Threatened bird observations.

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6.5.3 Birds

A total of 1,923 individuals from 66 bird species were observed during dedicated point count and opportunistic surveys across the Palmer footprint. Of these 66 species, five species are listed under the NPW Act (Table 46):

 Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata) – vulnerable in SA  Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) – rare in SA  Hooded Robin (Melanodryas cucullata) – rare in SA

 Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) – rare in SA  White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos) – rare in SA.

Five species of bird observed were non-native; the European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), European Blackbird (Turdus merula), Eurasian Skylark (Alauda arvensis), Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris) and the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus).

Point Count

Thirty (30) point count surveys were undertaken across the project area: 7 around Area A, 9 around Area B and 14 around Area C (Figure 5). The most abundant species detected during dedicated point count surveys (Table 46) was the Galah (Eolophus roseicapilla) (178 individuals) Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans) (98 individuals), the Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen) (103 individuals) and the Yellow- rumped Thornbill (Acanthiza chrysorrhoa) (104 individuals).

Twelve of the observed species were considered particularly at risk, as determined by flight heights and flight behaviours. Many of these species are birds of prey such as the Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax), Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrines) and Brown Falcon (Falco berigora). Additional information was collected about the movements and flight characteristics of these at-risk species, as discussed in Section 6.5.6.

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Table 46. Bird survey results.

Conservation status^ Number observed^ Scientific name Common name

Aus SA Intro OPP PC Total

Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater - - - 12 3 15

Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill - - - 5 104 109

Aegotheles cristatus Australian Owlet-nightjar - - - 2 2

Alauda arvensis Eurasian Skylark - - * 2 1 3

Anas gracilis Grey Teal - - - 2 2

Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck - - - 11 5 16

Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird - - - 5 5

Anthus novaeseelandiae Australasian Pipit - - - 5 12 17

Aphelocephala leucopsis Southern Whiteface - - - 6 42 48

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle - - - 36 26 62

Barnardius zonarius Australian Ringneck - - - 5 5

Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo - - - 10 10 20

Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella - - - 26 37 63

Chalcites basalis Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo - - - 2 2

Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck - - - 6 6

Cincloramphus cruralis Brown Songlark - - - 7 3 10

Cincloramphus mathewsi Rufous Songlark - - - 3 3

Climacteris picumnus Brown Treecreeper - - - 4 4

Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush - - - 4 3 7

Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike - - - 2 2

Corcorax melanorhamphos White-winged Chough - R - 21 21

Corvus coronoides Australian Raven - - - 3 17 20

Corvus mellori Little Raven - - - 51 71 122

Coturnix pectoralis Stubble Quail - - - 3 3

Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra - - - 4 4

Daphoenositta chrysoptera Varied Sittella - - - 19 10 29

Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoebird - - - 3 3

Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron - - - 8 2 10

Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite - - - 1 1

Eolophus roseicapilla Galah - - - 56 178 234

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Conservation status^ Number observed^ Scientific name Common name

Aus SA Intro OPP PC Total

Falco berigora Brown Falcon - - - 7 7 14

Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel - - - 12 10 22

Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon - R - 6 10 16

Glossopsitta concinna Musk Lorikeet - - - 4 4

Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark - - - 1 1

Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie - - - 76 103 179

Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle 1 1

Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow - - - 37 41 78

Lichenostomus penicillatus White-plumed Honeyeater - - - 13 25 38

Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater - - - 9 22 31

Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren - - - 6 6

Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren - - - 3 3

Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin - R - 3 3

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater Mi - - 30 2 32

Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant - - - 1 1

Milvus migrans Black Kite - - - 2 2

Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot - R - 4 3 7

Numida meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl * 10 10

Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon - - - 4 5 9

Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler - - - 6 6

Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote - - - 20 18 38

Passer domesticus House Sparrow - - * 36 36

Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin - - - 15 51 66

Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant - - - 1 1

Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater - - - 2 11 13

Platycercus elegans Crimson Rosella - - - 89 98 187

Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth - - - 1 1

Pomatostomus superciliosus White-browed Babbler - - - 10 11 21

Psephotus haematonotus Red-rumped Parrot - - - 8 62 70

Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail - - - 11 17 28

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Conservation status^ Number observed^ Scientific name Common name

Aus SA Intro OPP PC Total

Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill - - - 7 7

Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail - V - 4 3 7

Strepera versicolor Grey Currawong - - - 1 1

Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling - - * 125 125

Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Australasian Grebe - - - 1 1

Turdus merula Common Blackbird - - * 3 5 8

^ Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. Mi: Migratory. Intro: Introduced (* denotes introduced species). OPP: Opportune. PC: Point Count.

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Opportunistic birds

Of the 1923 individual birds recorded, 812 individuals from 52 species were observed opportunistically across the site (Table 46). Many of these were observed during active searching, as well as during moving between bird point count sites. The species with the highest representation in opportunistic observations were the exotic Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) (125 individuals) and the Crimson Rosella (86 individuals).

Sixteen out of the total 66 species were only recorded opportunistically:  Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus)  Red Wattlebird (Anthochaera carunculata)

 Australian Ringneck (Barnardius zonarius)  Australian Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata)  White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos)  Stubble Quail (Coturnix pectoralis)  Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae)  Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris)  Little Pied Cormorant (Microcarbo melanoleucos)

 Black Kite (Milvus migrans)

 Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)  Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)  Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides)  Grey Currawong (Strepera versicolor)  Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)  Australasian Grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae).

6.5.4 Peregrine Falcon

A total of five Peregrine Falcon nesting sites were recorded across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm site (Table 47, Figure 47). One known nesting site at Saunders Gorge is situated outside of the project area. Signs of a falcon nesting were observed within Marne Gorge during the November 2013 survey; this is situated outside of the turbine corridor and is situated north-west of the proposed northern extent of turbines in Area A (Figure 48). Two Peregrine Falcon nest sites were recorded in Area B: one is situated in the northern section (south of Walker Flat-Mount Pleasant Road) of Area B (Figure 49) and the other is along Gap Road (Figure 50). A single Peregrine Falcon nest (with two adult birds) was observed during the October 2013 survey within Bakers Gorge, accessed off Camel Hump Road (Figure 51).

Four out of the five falcon nests were active this season with birds present during the survey period. One nest (situated within Marne Gorge) was determined as inactive at the time of the November 2013 survey

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Table 47. Location of Peregrine Falcon nests with the project area. Survey Active / Scientific Name Common Name Easting Northing Location observed Inactive Nth section of August 13 Active Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 333560 6151006 Area B Gap Road Area Feb & Nov 13 Active Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 331725 6146867 B Bakers Gorge October 13 Active Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 330009 6139122 Area C Marne Gorge November 13 Inactive Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 334987 6162811 Area A Saunders Gorge August 13 Active Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 336348 6154167 Area A

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Figure 47. Location of Peregrine Falcon nests and observations within the project area.

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Figure 48. Peregrine Falcon nesting ledge identified in Marne Gorge.

Figure 49. Peregrine Falcon nesting ledge identified in the northern section of Area B.

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Figure 50. Peregrine Falcon nest location (white wash displayed) along Gap Road (Area B).

Figure 51. A Peregrine Falcon nesting site was observed in Bakers Gorge (red arrows mark where the two peregrines are sitting on the rocky ledge).

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A number of Peregrine Falcons observations were recorded across the project area. Section 6.5.6 presents minimum/maximum heights of the total number of movements recorded for this species. A number of flight details of the Peregrine Falcon pair observed in the northern section of Area B (E333560 / N615006) were recorded. These flight details were observed during the August 2013 survey were recorded on the raptor observation sheet (Figure 52). Observations included collecting data on:

 Reference of crossing point (labelled by a letter) across or just situated off the ridgeline e.g. the majority of letters were representative of where the observer was sitting so that the falcons could be observed flying to and from the study area. The observer attempted to use the same letter from where they were situated, for each observation  Distance along ridge (m) – estimated distance of crossing point in relation to a fixed point e.g. tree or topography slope  Height (m) – estimated crossing height  Flight direction (north, south, east or west)  Behaviour - activity was described as soaring (S), flying (F), displaying (D), conflict (C), circling or perched  Coupled – multiple crosses by one bird. If a falcon continued to cross the ridge and fly between reference points, then multiple movements were recorded.

A single Peregrine Falcon was original observed at this location in November 2012 by EBS Ecologists undertaken a vegetation assessment of the area. A single Peregrine Falcon was also seen at this location during the February 2013 survey whilst undertaking the avian assessment of the area. It was original thought that the Peregrine Falcon could have nesting in the Wedge-tailed Eagle nest located in the gully below. It was until August 2013, that two Peregrines were observed and a nest location verified.

When the observer initially approached the nest location during each of the survey periods, the Peregrine Falcon displayed conflict behaviour. The Peregrine Falcon pair (August 2013) was observed utilising the ridgeline at various heights and distances along the ridge (Figure 52). Much of their behaviour can be described as flying straight (FLM), compared with typical eagle behaviour of flying over circling (FLC) and flying over hovering (FLH). Flight activity was recorded in every direction; initially south, then west and south-east and then finally north (in the time that the observer was recording its behaviour). One of the falcon pair was also observed landing on the rocky crevice adjacent to the eagles nest (originally observed in February 2013).

The Peregrine Falcon pair was observed flying along the ridge in the range of 50-200 m. They were also recorded as flying between the heights of 10-100 m (Figure 52). Flights that are performed above 37 metres over the top of the ridge are considered at-risk movements. Based on flights being at risk if performed over the ridge above 37 m, each of these movements (as recorded in Figure 52) performed by the Peregrine Falcon pair, would be classified as at-risk movements.

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Figure 52. Peregrine Falcon Observation Record Sheet.

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6.5.5 Wedge-tailed Eagle

A total of twelve potential Wedge-tailed Eagle nests were located across the proposed Palmer Wind Farm site (Table 48, Figure 53). These nests were typically found within gullies and wooded areas across the project area, mostly within large E. camaldulensis trees (River Red Gum). Photographic representation of all Wedge-tailed Eagle nests was not recorded however below are some examples of where they were located and the types of habitat they occurred in (Figure 54 to Figure 57). Three nests were located within the surroundings of Area A, three within Area B and six within the surroundings of Area C (Table 48). Eleven out of the 12 nests recorded were inactive, with the one active nest situated outside of the project area (Figure 57). Breeding pairs often switch between multiple nest sites within their territory from one year to the next so it is recommended that all 12 nest locations are provided with a 500 m buffer, not just active nests from one season.

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Table 48. Location of Wedge-tailed Eagle nests within the project area. Scientific Name Common Name Easting Northing Location Survey observed Active/Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 336277 6155708 southern extent Area A (north of Saunders Gorge) August 2013 Active

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 337153 6160646 northern extent Area A February 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 326541 6147179 central extent Area B February 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 333583 6150965 northern extent Area B February 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 329569 6140579 Harrisons Gorge Area C November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 329180 6141194 Harrisons Gorge Area C November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 329221 6140600 Harrisons Gorge Area C November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 329561 6139472 Harrisons Gorge Area C November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 329878 6139343 Harrisons Gorge Area C November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 331901 6148872 southern extent Area B November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 336170 6162405 Marne Gorge Area A November 2013 Inactive

Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 327455 6138478 access road Area C January 2014 Inactive

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Figure 53. Wedge-tailed Eagle nest locations.

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Figure 54. Wedge-tailed Eagle nest - Marne Gorge.

Figure 55. Wedge-tailed Eagle nest - wooded gully northern extent of Area B.

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Figure 56. One of five Wedge-tailed Eagle nests located in Harrisons Gorge (Area C) (red arrows marks the spot).

Figure 57. An active WTE nest (August 2013) observed outside the project area (north of Saunders Gorge).

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6.5.6 Flight details of bird species flying in at-risk zone

The maximum turbine dimensions proposed for the Palmer Wind Farm are 165 metres in height (indicative tower height of 100 m and approximate blade length of 65 m, including 2 m of hub). At these dimensions, the lowest extent of a rotating blade tip would be at 37 m and the highest at 165 m in height. For the purposes of this report, flights that are performed above 37 m over the top of the ridge are considered at-risk movements, as this air-space corresponds with the rotor-swept area of turbines.

Although flight height and total number of movements were recorded for birds species observed during point count surveys, flight heights of only 11 bird species fell within the rotor-swept area of turbines (Table 49). Out of the 11 species whose flight were recorded either at 37 m or above, six were raptors (one of which has a state conservation rating): Wedge-tailed Eagle, Black-shouldered Kite, Brown Falcon, Nankeen Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon (State rare) and Black Kite. One additional species that was of conservation significance and recorded at-risk flight height was the Elegant Parrot. The Little Eagle (Hieraaetus morphnoides) and Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus), both which are listed in Table 46, did not have flight details recorded as both species were recorded on flat level ground outside of the project area.

The Wedge-tailed Eagle was observed flying as low as 1 m above the observers head (Figure 58) during the February 2013 survey, and recorded maximum heights of 800 m above ground. All raptor species performed flight at-risk height; the Peregrine Falcon recorded a total of six movements with the minimum height recorded of 10 m and maximum of 180 m (Table 49). Out of the four conservation significant species, the Elegant Parrot was the only species that performed at-risk height with a minimum of 25 m and maximum of 100 m recorded (refer to Section 8.6.2 for more information on the Elegant Parrot).

Table 49. Flight details of birds observed in the at-risk zone. At-risk Total Min Max flights Common name Scientific name movements height height recorded Y/N Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax 28 1 800 Y

Little Raven Corvus mellori 4 10 200 Y

Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris 3 15 80 Y

Galah Eolophus roseicapilla 12 10 70 Y

Brown Falcon Falco berigora 8 2 200 Y

Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides 10 5 200 Y

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 6 10 180 Y

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena 7 3 80 Y

Black Kite Milvus migrans 2 20 200 Y

Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans 1 25 100 Y

Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans 7 2 50 Y

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Figure 58. Wedge-tailed Eagle flying low to the ground during the February 2013 survey (Area A).

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6.5.7 Bats

Bat surveys were undertaken on nights between February 18th to 21st, 2013 and again in spring 2013 between October 29th and November 2nd. Survey sites were located across the project area in varying habitats representative of the site, including:

 Eucalyptus camaldulensis lined creekline

 exotic tree plantations  open ridgelines  open paddocks with scattered trees  low mallee type trees with Spinifex (Triodia sp.) ground cover

 dam surrounded by planted trees. Suitable bat roosting habitat (i.e. trees with hollows and loose bark).

AnaBat surveys confirmed the presence of seven bat species:

 Lesser Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus geoffroyi)  Gould's Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii)  Southern Forest Bat (Vespadelus regulus)  Southern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus species 4 "big dick") .  White-striped Freetail-bat (Tadarida australis)

 Chocolate Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus morio) (Figure 59)  Large Forest Bat (Vespadelus darlingtoni) (Table 50).

Three of these species were also captured in harp traps; the Southern Freetail-bat, Chocolate Wattled Bat (Figure 59) and Gould's Wattled Bat. Although undetected, it is also expected that the Small Forest Bat (Vespadelus vulturnus), Inland Freetail Bat (Mormopterus species 3.) and Inland Broad-nosed Bat (Scotorepens balstoni) are likely to be in this region. It is possible that the Inland Forest Bat (Vespadelus baverstocki) may also use this site.

Two threatened bat species could potentially occur within the project area (based on potential habitat and distribution of the species), but were undetected during the surveys:

 South-eastern Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus corbeni – formerly known as Nyctophilus timorensis South-eastern form) (nationally vulnerable and state vulnerable)  Yellow- bellied Sheath-tail Bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris) (state rare).

It is possible that these threatened species would occur, although only infrequently and in low numbers. Hence the potential risk of impact to these species is considered to be very low.

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The bat species detected onsite are thought to be common throughout the region and the majority of bats were recorded within the vicinity of habitat features such as woodlands, open water and linear movement corridors (which can be avoided). Adopting buffers between turbines and avoiding identified bat habitat features can minimise significant impacts on bat species using the site. Nevertheless, monitoring measures (including bat strike monitoring, scavenger and detectability trials and long term monitoring of bat diversity, activity and behaviours) have been recommended to further understand the response of bats to wind farms in this region and to confirm the adequacy of the mitigation measures.

None of the recorded bat species have a conservation rating. The number of AnaBat calls recorded for each species and the number of individuals captured via harp trapping is summarised for each survey site (Table 50). Refer to Figure 6 for the location of the bat survey sites. Due to overlapping call frequencies and/or insufficient call quality, some of the bat calls could not be ascribed to a particular species.

Based on the total number of AnaBat calls and captures, the Gould's Wattled Bat was the most common species. The number of calls may not reflect abundance, but would suggest the survey site is subject to a high level of bat activity (either single or multiple bats). Only one species, the Lesser Long-eared Bat, had previously been recorded in the area based on BDBSA records (DEWNR 2013a).

Table 50. Bat survey results. Species Common name Conservation Harp AnaBat No. calls No. calls status trap recorded recorded Aus SA Feb Oct 2013^ 2013^ White-striped Freetail- Tadarida australis  543 6 bat

Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat 2  2491 1

Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat 4  494

Chalinolobus gouldii or  22 Chalinolobus morio

Mormopterus species 4 Southern Freetail-bat 1  517 "big dick"

Mormopterus sp.  8

Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat  179

Vespadelus darlingtoni Large Forest Bat  62 4

Vespadelus regulus Southern Forest Bat  121

Vespadelus sp.  1 1

Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. ^Note: The number of AnaBat calls recorded is not necessarily indicative of abundance. Multiple calls could constitute a single bat flying past the AnaBat detector numerous times, or multiple individuals. Bat activity levels also vary depending on the weather conditions. Generally high activity is recorded on warm nights. Results should not be compared within and between survey periods due to different survey effort and weather conditions.

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Figure 59. Chocolate Wattled Bat caught in a Harp Trap.

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6.5.8 Exotic fauna

A number of exotic fauna species were observed across the footprint. Three mammal species were recorded (Table 51) with the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) (two individuals) being observed, as well as numerous Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) (57 individuals), warrens and burrows and a small mob of Goats (seven individuals) being observed in a gorge within Area C (Figure 60). Five exotic species of bird were also encountered, with large numbers of Common Starling (125 individuals), the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) (36 individuals) European Blackbird (Turdus merula) (eight individuals), Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris) (10 individuals) and the European Skylark (three individuals) (Table 46).

Table 51. Exotic fauna results.

Conservation status No. observed Scientific name Common name Aus SA Intro OPP PC Total

Capra hircus Feral Goat - - * 7 - 7

Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit - - * 57 - -

Vulpes vulpes Fox (Red Fox) - - * 1 1 2

Figure 60. Feral goats observed in a gorge in Area C.

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6.5.9 Fauna habitat

The site of Palmer Wind farm is situated on the eastern extreme of the Mount Lofty Ranges, before extending east into the Murray Plains. As such, water flowing from the site drains east towards the River Murray which has resulted in numerous gorges being formed across the landscape. Four gorges are situated within the footprint of the wind farm or directly border the proposed Palmer Wind Farm however no turbines will be situated within any of the gorges. These include:

 Marne Gorge (northern extent of wind farm area (north of Area A) (Figure 61)  Saunders Gorge (between Area A and B – outside of project area)  Bakers Gorge and (Area C) (Figure 62)

 Harrisons Gorge (Area C) (Figure 63 and Figure 64).

All four gorges would provide habitat for fauna within the region.

Figure 61. Marne Gorge looking north-west.

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Figure 62. Bakers Gorge.

Figure 63. Harrison Gorge (November 2013).

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Figure 64. Waterfall in Harrisons Gorge (normally flowing in winter).

Additional to the vegetation associations discussed, other key habitat features within the project area included:

 Numerous creeklines and low lying areas – providing ephemeral flowing water and pooled water potentially utilised by a range of terrestrial and aquatic fauna. Creeks were observed flowing with high water levels in August, and still had water flow, although diminished, in October and November. None of the creeks were flowing during the February survey. It should be noted that fish and aquatic fauna were not assessed as part of this project; fish are not currently listed under the NPW Act and are not provided in database searches from DEWNR. Water within the creeklines provided habitat for waterfowl such as ducks and herons that were observed during the surveys.

 Dams – providing an artificial water source and foraging habitat for birds and bats as well as refuge and hunting grounds for reptiles such as the Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus). This species of snake was observed during the November 2013 survey; Red- bellied Black Snakes occur in wetter areas and can use riparian vegetation such as that observed in Figure 65 for foraging i.e. it may have been hunting for frogs that could have been present at the dam.

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Figure 65. Dam observed during the November 2013 survey in Area C.

 Rocky outcrops and granite boulders in pasture and woodland areas and large exposed rock faces within the gorges – providing habitat and shelter for reptiles, mammals and invertebrates and refuge for threatened plants. Rocky outcrops are considered to have high conservation and regional significance.

 Tree hollows – present in all Eucalypt Woodland sites, in live, standing and fallen dead trees, providing habitat particularly for birds, bats, small mammals and reptiles (Figure 66). Owl species such as the Australian Owlet-nightjar (Aegotheles cristatus) and Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) (Figure 67) were recorded in areas where large hollows were observed. The Tawny Frogmouth appeared to have died of natural causes and was observed by EBS when placing an Anabat in a creekline.

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Figure 66. Example of tree hollows near proposed turbine 26 (Area C) in vegetation association 8 (Eucalyptus fasciculosa very open woodland over exotic / native grassland).

Figure 67. Tawny Frogmouth observed opportunistically in Area A.

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 7 POTENTIAL IMPACTS

This section outlines the likely impact on native flora in relation to the current wind farm design. Likely impacts on fauna is summarised within Section 8 (Discussion).

7.1 Vegetation

Where possible, avoidance of intact native vegetation and wooded vegetation has been embedded into the wind farm layout. Most of the turbines are to be located in degraded areas of grassland with a small percentage of native vegetation cover persisting in the form of scattered native grasses and herbs, Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush).

Impact on vegetation will be in the form of direct clearance, trimming and compaction, mostly during the construction phase. The operational phase of the wind farm is less threatening to native vegetation however site management measures will be necessary to prevent impacts associated with vehicle access and weeds. Minor clearance or trimming may be required as part of ongoing maintenance. Ongoing management will be required to prevent a decline in the condition and loss of ecological function, particularly of small vegetation patches.

7.1.1 WTGs

There are 114 wind turbine generators (WTGs) and associated hardstands proposed for Palmer Wind Farm. The proposed area of clearance around each WTG is 0.1928 ha. The vegetation association and condition at proposed turbines in Areas A, B and C is summaried in Table 52. One turbine is classified as falling on the edge of a patch of Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland, and 11 are located in very open Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Woodland ranging from poor to moderate condition. Five turbines are proposed in areas classed as mixed native shrubland of moderate condition. The installation of wind turbines and the creation of transmission lines and access tracks in the woodland areas may require clearance and/or trimming of individual trees. The placement of turbines within, between and in close proximity to woodland patches may also have implications for birds and bats (see Section 8.8). Direct impact to woodland areas may occur through the clearance of individual trees. Trustpower is committed to utilising existing tracks and will avoid clearing individual tress where possible. Where this is not possible, Trustpower will need to assess each individual tree for clearance under the Native Vegetation Act.

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Table 52. Vegetation association and condition at the proposed WTG sites.

Vegetation Number of WTG Vegetation association Vegetation association description condition no. Area A Area B Area C Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) 4 scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping 6:1 5

Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open 7 5:1 2 Woodland over Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa) Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open 8 1:1 2 Woodland over exotic / native Grassland Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open 8 3:1 5 Woodland over exotic / native Grassland Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open 8 4:1 2 Woodland over exotic / native Grassland 9 Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland 4:1 1

12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 3 50 25

12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 3 5

12 Exotic / native Grassland 4:1 3

Exotic / native Grassland scattered Eucalyptus 13 camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red 1:1 4

Gum) Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush) Drainage 14 1:1 1 Areas 15 Planted vegetation / Revegetation 1:1 1

Scattered Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush) / 16 2:1 1 1 exotic / native Grassland TOTAL 15 61 38

7.1.2 Access tracks

Wherever possible, the existing established access tracks on the properties will be used as access for the Palmer Wind Farm to minimise any additional impacts to vegetation. EBS has proposed several alternate routes in areas B and C to minimise impact on sensitive vegetation (Figure 74 and Figure 75).

Approximately 92.1km of access tracks is proposed for the Palmer Wind Farm. Based on the clearance estimates required for the construction of access tracks, this equates to a total clearance of approximately 83.09 ha of native vegetation (Table 53).

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Table 53. Vegetation association and condition at proposed site access track locations.

Vegetation Vegetation clearance (ha) Vegetation association Vegetation association description Total condition no. Area A Area B Area C

3:1 0.05 0.05 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet 4:1 0.06 0.06 Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata 4 (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum 6:1 1.18 1.18 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 8:1 0.48 0.48

2:1 0.02 0.01 0.14 0.2

3:1 0.04 0.04 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. 6 camaldulensis (River Red Gum) Creekline 4:1 0.03 0.48 0.03 0.54

5:1 0.06 0.06

Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very 5:1 0.32 0.32

7 Open Woodland over Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa) 7:1 0.28 0.28

1:1 0.93 0.93

Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very 2:1 0.34 0.34

8 Open Woodland over exotic / native Grassland 3:1 2.18 2.18

4:1 0.56 0.56

Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) 9 4:1 0.1 0.24 0.34 Woodland 1:1 0.44 0.44 Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box) Open 11 Woodland 6:1 0.01 0.01

1:1 4.94 40.48 14.06 59.48

2:1 3.06 2.26 5.32

12 Exotic / native Grassland 4:1 2.35 2.35

6:1 0.26 0.26

Exotic / native Grassland scattered 1:1 2.45 2.45

13 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) 4:1 0.01 0.01

1:1 0.31 0.31 Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush) 14 Drainage Areas 2:1 0.09 0.09

15 Planted vegetation / Revegetation 1:1 0.17 0.09 0.26

1:1 0.02 0.02

Scattered Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat- 16 2:1 0.25 0.07 0.32 rush) / exotic / native Grassland 4:1 3.05 0.75 3.8

TOTAL (ha) 15.83 47.05 19.77 82.68

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7.1.3 Site and construction amenities

Proposed amenities include batch plants, laydown areas, operation and maintenance compound, substations and construction amenities. These will require an estimated clearance of 25.42 ha of native vegetation, of which 24.11 ha is degraded grassland (SEB 1:1) and 0.31 ha is scattered Lomandra effusa (Scented Mat-rush) grassland in poor condition (SEB 4:1) and 1.0ha is Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland over exotic / native Grassland.

7.1.4 275kV transmission poles

Based on an impact area of 10m x 10m for each 275 kV lattice towers, the required clearance of native vegetation consists of 0.11ha, of which 0.08ha is described as degraded grassland in very poor condition (SEB 1:1) and 0.03 ha of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) Creekline in poor condition (SEB 4:1).

7.1.5 275kV overhead transmission line

The overhead transmission line will be approximately 10 km long. Based on a pole being located approximately every 250 m along the transmission line route, approximately 38 poles will be required. The majority of the overhead transmission line is located within cropping land, with an SEB ratio of 0:1.

7.1.6 33kV overhead transmission line

Approximately 30 km of overhead transmission line is proposed for the Palmer Wind Farm which includes 101 poles. Based on the clearance estimates required for the construction of overhead line routes, this equates to a total clearance of approximately 0.15ha.

7.1.7 33kV overhead poles

Based on an impact area of 4 m x 4 m for each 33 kV pole, the total required clearance of native vegetation is approximately 0.15 ha and made up of the following:

 0.036 ha of poor condition vegetation (SEB 1:1 to 4:1), consisting predominantly of grassland (association 12) with small areas containing scattered native Eucalypts, shrubs and Lomandra effusa (vegetation associations 1, 2, 3, 6, 13 and 16);

 0.002 ha of Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland over grassland in poor condition (SEB 3:1);

 0.005 ha of moderate condition vegetation (SEB 5:1 to 6:1) consisting of scattered Callitris gracilis closed shrubland and native shrubs and grasses (associations 16, 19 and 20);

 0.0003 ha of mixed mallee (association 10) in good condition (SEB 8:1);

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 0.006 of +/-Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine) +/- Melaleuca lanceolata (Dryland Tea-tree) +/- Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) +/- Eucalyptus socialis (Red Mallee) Mixed Woodland / Mallee (SEB 2:1 – 5:1);

 0.004ha of Acacia shrublands (SEB 4:1);

 0.002ha of Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box) Open Woodland (SEB 4:1) and

 0.006ha Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) Creekline (SEB 3:1 – 6:1).

7.1.8 Underground 33kV cable routes

Approximately 72 km of underground cable routes are proposed for Palmer Wind Farm, which will be positioned within 10m of the road. The total clearance is estimated as 126.86ha.

7.1.9 Meterological masts

An additional six masts will be installed: one in Area A, 3 in Area B and 2 in Area C. The approximate clearance area is 0.03ha.

7.1.10 Public roads

Potential clearance associated with public roads is yet to be determined. As part of this ecological report, EBS has provided Trustpower with recommended routes to use regarding impacts to native vegetation along some of the public road options (see Section 11.1).

7.2 Weeds

Earth-moving and vehicle movement particularly during the construction and operation phase of the wind farm will provide opportunity and mechanisms for weed dispersal, to and from the site. Mitigation measures will need to be put in place to avoid the spread of weed species. Trustpower is committed to implementing a weed management plan pre, during and post construction to minimise the spread of weeds and limit potential impact to properties.

7.3 Fauna

The impact on native fauna may include:

 Mortality via turbine collision  Mortality via collision with vehicles associated with the wind farm operations  Direct loss of habitat via clearance/ damage to nesting sites/dens  Displacement due to habitat loss  Disturbance effects (e.g. impact on breeding activities, habitat suitability, flight pathways).

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 8 DISCUSSION

8.1 Vegetation

The condition of vegetation varies across the project area with a majority being of poor condition. Most of the required clearance will be in grazing land with no or minimal native vegetation component. Of the vegetation within the project area, 1956.1 ha are considered in poor condition, 59.18 ha in moderate condition, 23.96 ha in good condition and 16.6 ha in excellent condition (Table 16). Condition ratings were based on the vegetation structure, quality of the understorey and level of weed invasion. They do not necessarily represent the value of the area as fauna habitat (see below section).

There is opportunity to manage and formally protect areas of intact native vegetation for biodiversity conservation. The focus should be on large, good quality vegetation patches, and threatened vegetation communities which would respond to rehabilitation.

8.2 Threatened ecological communities

Two EPBC listed ecological communities were recorded within the project area. Lomandra effusa Tussock Grassland is a nationally threatened ecological community listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act. Thirteen sites contained the grassland community: ten in Area A and three in Area C, two of which qualified as Threatened Ecological Community (Class B).

Lomandra effusa grasslands were mapped within proposed site access/underground transmission line locations. Lomandra grassland is considered a Priority 1 threatened plant community in SA (Neagle 1995). The examples of this community within the project area would respond to management but are not considered of sufficient quality to justify their inclusion in a Heritage Agreement.

Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland is a nationally threatened ecological community listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act. Degraded patches of Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland were present within the turbine corridor in Area C. The vegetation community was present at six locations within Area C of which four sites, 1, 2, 4 and 5 qualified as Condition Class C areas. Condition Class C patches do not meet condition criteria to be considered part of the EPBC Act listed community, however could be rehabilitated to the listed ecological community.

As well as being nationally significant, Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland is considered a poorly conserved plant community within SA (Neagle 1995) and a regionally threatened plant community, with less than 1 % of the remaining areas in the SA Murray Darling Basin formally conserved (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). Woodland communities containing E. odorata, E. porosa, E. leucoxylon and E. fasciculosa are not well conserved and often occur as small, degraded and fragmented patches. Due to their open nature, grassy woodlands are extensively grazed, and as a result they often a lack a native understorey layer and exhibit poor regeneration (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). There is opportunity to manage woodland areas for conservation, e.g. through grazing management and formal protection of the larger, better condition patches through Heritage Agreements.

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All areas within the turbine corridor had some native vegetation present and hence the minimum SEB condition rating assigned was 1:1. In comparison, the minimum SEB condition rating for vegetation assessed within infrastructure and public road options was 0:1. Remnant woodland vegetation was scattered throughout the site and should be avoided where possible during construction.

8.3 Native vegetation clearance

A total of approximately 257.83 ha are proposed for the clearance associated with the construction of the Palmer Wind Farm project. A total SEB of 384.75 ha is required to be offset for the clearance of native vegetation.

8.4 Flora

No EPBC listed flora species were determined as likely to occur within the project area. Surveys undertaken by EBS Ecology within the Palmer Wind Farm footprint confirmed the presence of three State listed flora species: Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum), Mentha diemenica (Slender Mint) and Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails). Specific comment is provided below regarding these species and the risk posed in relation to a wind farm development.

Four additional conservation significant flora species were determined as likely to occur (from the BDBSA search) within the project area: Aristida australis, Austrostipa oligostachya (Fine-head Spear- grass), Lachnagrostis robusta (Tall Blown-grass) and Maireana rohrlachii (Rohrlach’s Bluebush). Preferred habitat for these state conservation significant species is summarised in Table 12. Impact on these species would be low, if vegetation determined as preferred habitat was not removed.

Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum)

This species typically occurs in disturbed grazed land with an understorey of exotic species. It is common in the Mount Lofty Ranges, extending to the Coorong and eastward just into Victoria. Also on Kangaroo Island. It inhabits soils of poor fertility, usually sandy or rocky areas, often associated with Eucalyptus leucoxylon and E. odorata in the Mount Lofty Ranges and the south-east and E. odorata or E. cladocalyx on Kangaroo Island (Nicolle 1997). The impact to this species is likely to be low if clearance of scattered Pink Gum is avoided.

Mentha diemenica (Slender Mint)

This species typically occurs within better quality habitat. About twenty-five species of Mentha are distributed throughout the world, six being endemic to Australia. Seven exotic species have naturalised. All have aromatic foliage, a characteristic of the Lamiaceae family, to which they belong. Mentha diemenica occurs in grassland and forest habitats from the Mt Lofty Ranges in South Australia, throughout Victoria and Tasmania, and north to the Blue Mountains of New South Wales. It is a strongly suckering plant which in cold, dry conditions may become dormant, but when growing vigorously forms a

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Ptilotus erubescens (Hairy-tails)

This species typically occurs within better quality habitat. Its habitat preference is occasionally on relatively fertile soils of grasslands and woodlands. The impact to this species is likely to be low if clearance of this species is avoided.

8.5 Fauna

8.5.1 Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard

One of the species identified by the EPBC Protected Matters Search was the Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard (Tiliqua adelaidensis), listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act. This moderate sized skink (approximately 20 cm long) is endemic to South Australia. It was considered extinct until it was rediscovered near Burra in 1992 (the first record for 36 years). It is now known from around 30 isolated populations in the mid-north of the state, most being on private land. Recent discoveries of new populations have led to known range extensions to the south and north. The full extent of most populations has not yet been determined, and it is possible that some apparently isolated localities belong to single contiguous populations (Duffy et al. 2009; Milne 2000).

Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizards typically occupy grassland habitats (native and exotic), providing that the area is unploughed and the soil structure remains intact (Milne 1999) (Figure 68). Characteristic habitat is rolling hills where there is good topsoil depth and spider holes present.

Most records of the species occur further north of the site, with the closest records 37 km north of the northern extent of the Palmer Wind Farm site. The fauna survey within Areas A, B and C failed to identify any Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizards or any potential habitat for this species. General soil structure and topography indicates that the species occurrence is unlikely. Whilst based on the known range of the species it is unlikely to occur at the site, if suitable habitat is present it cannot be discounted.

Figure 68. Nationally endangered Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard (EBS 2008).

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8.5.2 Bats

There are significant knowledge gaps regarding the diversity, distribution and abundance of bat species in the region. Species thought to be once common may now be regionally threatened. Based on AnaBat recordings and trapping, at least seven bat species are known to inhabit the project area. Only one species had previously been recorded in the BDBSA for the area (DEWNR 2013a).

AnaBat data enables the identification of most bats to species level, but is not a suitable measure of abundance, given the number of calls recorded may be related to the activity of one individual or many, and detection depends on a number of other factors such as microphone sensitivity and climatic conditions. Some calls fall into the overlap of parameters between two species and species identification cannot be confirmed without trapping.

AnaBat calls were captured within a range of the habitats present. Bats forage around woodland vegetation, in open space and over open water, dependent on the species foraging strategies. Many bat species found in South Australia use an ‘edge-space’ aerial foraging strategy focused on treed habitat and water bodies, and are expected to stay within close proximity to these features (Churchill 2008). This is generally the case for the bat species recorded during the field survey.

Linear features such as roads, drains and ridges have been recorded to have high bat activity (often associated with vegetation or water) and bats have been observed to navigate and forage along the length of these features (Churchill 2008). Higher bat activity levels are generally observed in wooded areas, where bat foraging and roosting habitat is abundant.

Although not recorded, the Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris) listed as rare under the NPW Act may potentially exist in the project area. Although this species occurs across much of Australia, it is never found in large numbers. The species migrates from northern Australia into south- eastern Australia during the summer months (Churchill 2008). All records of this species from the region are from late March to early June, suggesting that it is an autumn migrant (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). This species is considered an occasional seasonal visitor that may roost temporarily in tree hollows within the project area.

The Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat flies predominately above the tree canopy, thus it is rarely trapped or detected via AnaBat. The flight height of this species make it potentially vulnerable to turbine strike, however given it is an infrequent visitor, the overall risk to the species is considered low. The species prefers large hollow trees and is therefore also threatened by the clearance of such trees.

Numerous areas of suitable bat roosting habitat were present in the mallee and woodland associations within the project area. Any clearance of such habitats would result in direct removal of potential roosting habitat for bats, and possibly the destruction of roosting bats. Clearance of any roosting habitat should be avoided, especially given low levels of remnant vegetation within the region (Graham et al. 2001).

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Bat-strike interactions are likely during the operation of proposed wind turbines in the project area. Although it is not known which species may fly within the rotor-swept area, it is expected that several species may have interactions with turbines within the project area. Little is known about the effect of operating turbines on bat behaviour, whether bats avoid turbines or not, and the actual number of bat- strikes that have been caused by operational wind farms in Australia (T. Reardon pers. comm. 2011).

Most of the bat species likely to occur at the site forage within and around woodland vegetation. The interaction between such bat species and turbines can be reduced by implementing a buffer between turbines and wooded habitats. Bat species with open space foraging strategies are difficult to avoid since they may forage throughout the project area, up to 100 m in height.

Without more detailed knowledge of the bat species present, their distribution and their behaviours in the project area (pre/post construction and during operation), it is difficult to accurately assess the impacts of the proposed wind farm on bats. Ideally, ongoing monitoring of bat populations would be undertaken to gain a better understanding of their regional status and utilisation of the site. A methodology should be developed for detecting bat-strikes that may occur during the operational stages of the wind farm, as well as a procedure for reporting bat-strikes that may occur.

Some recent wind farm studies overseas have suggested that bats may be impacted by a sudden change in localised air pressure created by turbines, after bats had been found with fatal injuries consistent with Barotrauma (Baerwald et al. 2008). Barotrauma can occur when an organism is exposed to a significant change in ambient pressure. Rollins et al (2012) conducted investigations to test the theory of barotrauma in bats; the study examined bat carcasses collected from wind turbine facilities with only 6% showing signs purely of barotrauma. Rollins et al (2012) concluded that traumatic injury from collisions was likely to be the main cause (if any) of bat mortality at wind farms.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) presented a study in Colorado (2012) which simulated and measured the air pressure zones created by a typical wind turbine, and simulated bat flight paths within these zones, to investigate if the pressure was indeed enough to cause barotrauma mortality in bats. The study focused on low wind speeds since it has been reported by various studies that fewer bat mortalities were recorded at high wind speeds. They found that bats flying very close to wind turbine blades at low wind speeds of about 5 metres per second (m/s) would experience a suction pressure of approximately 1.4 kilopascals (kPa). These results were compared to a study of the responses of laboratory mice (surrogate species for bats) to overpressure blasts from explosions, where it took a minimum of 30 kPa to cause mortality. Hence, it was concluded that it appears unlikely that the pressure changes around operating wind turbine blades are large enough to cause fatal barotrauma.

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8.5.3 Other notable fauna

Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)

The Common Brushtail Possum generally occurs in Open forest and Woodland habitat where they often use tree hollows as preferred den sites. The hollows used by Brushtail Possums are generally around 10 cm in diameter. Common Brushtail Possums tend to be found in areas with smooth barked Eucalypts, such as South Australian Blue Gum (E. leucoxylon) Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) as well as an association with more fertile soils (Armstrong 2002). They are known to use Eucalyptus camaldulensis trees in the river corridor and feed on the cones of Callitris gracilis and the foliage of mistletoe. Common Brushtail Possums will also come to the ground to feed (Kahrimanis et al. 2001).

Their preferred habitat has been heavily cleared for agricultural purposes, reducing suitable feeding and refuge trees for the possums. They also have limited mobility across fragmented landscapes and are vulnerable to fox and cat predation which inhibits their ability to relocate to other suitable areas (Pickett et al. 2005).

The Common Brushtail Possum was not observed during surveys and was not identified from the BDBSA search for the project area (DEWNR 2013a) however areas of suitable habitat exist and as such this species may be present. The occurrence of Common Brushtail Possum has declined across much of its range in South Australia, becoming local extinct in arid and semi-arid areas and becoming rare within areas such as the Mount Lofty Ranges. This has resulted in this species being listed under the NPW Act as rare. There are records of the Common Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) within the BDBSA for the project area (DEWNR 2013a), although this species does not have a conservation status.

Due to the fragmented nature of the woodland habitats, and the known occurrence of the Red Fox, localised impact may occur to possums if suitable trees are removed during the construction of the wind farm.

Short-beaked Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

Whilst no Echidna’s were detected during surveys, this species may occur within the project area. Echidna’s are not conservation rated and are considered reasonably stable within the region. They are reported to occur in woodland areas throughout the region (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). It could be argued that the chance of running over an echidna may increase with more roads and access tracks associated with the wind farm. Enforcement of speed limits as part of on-site management would reduce this risk.

Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

The Koala was introduced to the Mount Lofty Ranges (1965) and many locations along the River Murray (1959-1965, extant) (DEWNR 2013a). This species does not have a conservation status in SA. There are no BDBSA records of koalas occurring within or near the project area (DEWNR 2013a) and there were no opportunistic observations during EBS Ecology’s surveys. However, there are anecdotal

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey accounts from local residents of sightings from the Sanderston area. A local resident reported that koalas utilise the creeklines around the Sanderston Reserve as a refuge corridor. Concern was raised that the use of Sanderston Road as a main thoroughfare for the wind farm could pose a risk to koalas through vehicle collision. Enforcement of speed limits as part of on-site management would reduce this risk.

Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons)

The Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat does not have a national or state conservation status. Populations are known from the project area and their presence is often indicated by their extensive burrow networks. Based on mapped records, the Palmer area constitutes the south-western extent of the regional population (Kahrimanis et al. 2001 and this study). Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat are primarily grazers, mainly feeding on native grasses. Population levels fluctuate with climatic conditions, with declines observed during drought conditions. Potential impact associated with the development may include mortality via collision and damage to burrow systems associated with vehicle access. Such impacts are considered localised; enforcement of speed limits as part of on-site management would reduce this risk.

Carpet python (Morelia spilota)

The Carpet Python is rated as rare in SA. The SA Murray Darling Basin subspecies (ssp. variegata) has been observed in Eucalyptus camaldulensis hollows along the River Murray corridor (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). Most records are from rocky areas along watercourses. The wind farm is unlikely to impact on this species thus no specific management is required.

8.6 Habitat

Woodland areas and scattered trees are important for the survival of many mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates. Scattered trees supplement the habitat of blocks of native vegetation, particularly as the trees are likely to be similar to the plant communities within adjacent blocks. In some areas, scattered trees are the only remaining shelter, feeding and nesting source for native fauna species. For example Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum), E. leucoxylon (South Australian Blue Gum) and E. fasciculosa (Pink Gum) have high nectar production that is important for many species, even in the absence of understorey plants (Kahrimanis et al. 2001).

The hollows in mature trees provide habitat (roosting, breeding, refuge) for many species, such as the nationally vulnerable Regent Parrot, nationally vulnerable South-eastern Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus corbeni), state rare Common Brushtail Possum, state rare Carpet Python and the state rare Yellow- bellied Sheath-tailed Bat. The Regent Parrot breeds exclusively in hollows in large, senescent or dead Eucalyptus camaldulensis within the river floodplain, so this habitat is highly significant to its long-term survival (Kahrimanis et al. 2001). It should be noted that none of these species were observed during the field surveys.

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Dead trees retain a high biodiversity value, particularly as nesting sites. Surface rock such as the large granite boulders scattered across the site also provide important refuge for native flora and fauna. Both habitat features should be left in situ.

8.7 Bird assessment

Sixty-six species were recorded during the bird assessment; this indicates relatively high bird diversity compared with the condition of some of the vegetation throughout the site. Sixteen out of the total 66 species were only recorded opportunistically; this highlights the potential for nomadic species to utilise the site, and/or the fact that bird species are reliant upon and may be limited by the availability of favourable habitat and food resources.

Surveys undertaken by EBS Ecology within the Palmer Wind Farm footprint confirmed the presence of five State listed species of bird: the Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans), Hooded Robin (Melanodryas cucullata cucullata) the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), the White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos) and the Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata). One migratory species was also recorded, the Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus). Specific comment is provided below regarding these species and the risk posed in relation to a wind farm development.

Two additional conservation significant bird species were determined as likely to occur (from the BDBSA search) within the project area: the Jacky Winter (Microeca fascinans) and the Restless Flycatcher (Myiagra inquieta) which are also discussed in more detail below. The Wedge-tailed Eagle is also discussed below due to its iconic status within the South Australian landscape and the risks posed associated with wind farm developments. One species that was not identified from the BDBSA search but warrants mention due to habitat potential and historic records, is the Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus). This species was also identified by the Peramangk People, represented by the Mannum Aboriginal Community Association Incorporated (MACAI), as also potentially occurring on site. The Regent Parrot is also discussed in more detail below.

Diamond Firetail

The state vulnerable Diamond Firetail was observed during the October 2013 survey, with seven individuals observed. The birds were mainly observed in long grass fleeting from the ground to the lower branches of tree limbs. Although recorded in long grass, these birds were observed within typically vegetated areas, which provide better opportunities for both food and protection. These included E. odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland and scattered E. fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Woodland (Figure 46).

Diamond Firetails live in a wide range of eucalypt dominated vegetation communities that typically have a grassy understorey, including woodland, forest and mallee. This preferred habitat type correlates with the grassy understorey/Peppermint Box Woodland upper storey habitat where the Diamond Firetails were observed within the project area. They are ground-feeders that predominantly eat ripe and half-ripe seeds of various grasses but are also known to feed on seeds of herbs, bushes and trees as well as insects and worms (Immlemann 1982, Read 1994). They prefer habitat that includes E. camaldulensis

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(Red Gum), E. leucoxylon (Blue Gum), Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine) or Allocasuarina luehmannii (Buloke). Due to the foraging habits of this bird, potential for direct interaction with the turbines is considered low.

Elegant Parrot

The State rated Elegant Parrot has a preference for open woodland, cropland and open country, feeding on the seeds of native and introduced grasses. They are locally nomadic, and can be often encountered in flocks of 20-100 or more, except in the breeding season when they tend to be found either in pairs or small parties. Like other Neophema species, they are quiet and unobtrusive and forages almost entirely on the ground. Its flight is high, swift and direct. The Elegant Parrot is partly nomadic and may be encountered in the company of the Blue-winged Parrot. Its distribution ranges from south-western New South Wales to the Mt Lofty Ranges and Kangaroo Island in South Australia and in Western Australia from Esperance to Perth. They are locally nomadic, preferring heathland and open country, open woodland, cropland and semiarid scrub. They feed on the seeds of native and introduced grasses as well as shrubs and herbaceous plants. Elegant Parrots nest in the cavities of small trees

One Elegant Parrot was observed during point count surveys flying high above a small patch of remnant vegetation in Area A. Maximum height of flight was approximately 100 m above the ridge (Table 49) which places them at risk of collision with turbines. Four Elegant Parrots were observed opportunistically in the northern section of Area C. They were flying low to the ground.

Woodland areas with tree hollows will be avoided during the construction of the wind farm and existing tracks will be used where possible, rather than creating new tracks through pasture grass sites and cropland. Given that none of the preferred habitat of this species will be removed, the overall risk to this species is low.

Hooded Robin

Hooded Robins are found throughout a large portion of Australia in lightly timbered woodland, mainly dominated by acacia and/or eucalypts. Woodland birds like the Hooded Robin are more likely to be found in areas such as Group C given the footprint contains a larger proportion of woodland vegetation. The one individual observed on site however was recorded in vegetation association 4 (Area A). In general, the effects of a wind farm on woodland bird species are related to possible loss of habitat and disturbance from turbines if close to woodlands. Direct interaction with turbine blades is considered low for woodland specific bird species that rarely fly above canopy height.

Jacky Winter

The Jacky Winter (Microeca fascinans) has a widespread distribution across Australia, and in southeast New Guinea, with four known subspecies in Australia. Two sub species live in South Australia, with M. f. barcoo being the most widespread, while M. f. fascinans occurs in the south-east of the state, with their

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey northern extent in the MLR. Within the MLR the Jacky Winter has a patchy distribution, from the Barossa to Port Willunga, east to Monarto and south to Victor Harbor. Where this species does occur within South Australia, they are particularly sedentary. Jacky Winter’s prefer open woodland with an open shrub layer and large proportion of bare ground. They are often observed in farmland and parks. Within the AMLR the preferred broad vegetation groups are Grassy Woodland and Mallee. Although not detected during the survey, the Palmer Wind Farm footprint lies within their known range, and as such this species could be encountered within any areas with preferred remnant vegetation. Avoidance of all woodland areas would significantly reduce the risk to this species if present.

Peregrine Falcon

The State rare Peregrine Falcon is found across Australia. Although these birds are not common, they have a global distribution worldwide. They are found in most habitats, from rainforests to the arid zone, and at most altitudes, from the coast to alpine areas. They are also known to nest on artificial structures such as the window ledges of high buildings. The Peregrine Falcon mates for life and pairs maintain a home range of about 20 to 30 square kilometres throughout the year. Rather than building a nest, the Peregrine Falcon typically lays its eggs in recesses of cliff faces, tree cavities or in the abandoned nests of other species (Olsen 1995). Peregrine Falcons commonly occur at windy sites along ranges. This species has a distinctive flight and call, and is often observed flying above the tree canopy or in open areas between patches of woodland, or over wetlands. Their preference for nesting on cliff faces, particularly in the Mount Lofty Ranges, enables observers to target surveys.

Five nests were located within all three areas, Area A, B and C. The main risks posed to Peregrine Falcons (individual birds rather than to the species itself) are bird strike during operation of the wind farm and disturbance during construction and operation of the wind farm. Trustpower has adopted a minimum 1000 m buffer between these nest sites and turbines to minimise the likelihood of disturbance to nest sites and to individual birds.

Rainbow Bee-eater

The Rainbow Bee-eater is listed as migratory under the EPBC Act. It is distributed across much of mainland Australia. The number of locations that the Rainbow Bee-eater occurs in is unknown, and has not been estimated. It is assumed that the species is widespread given its ability to undertake long- distance movements (Barrett et al. 2003), and will migrate into southern Australia during spring into summer. The Rainbow Bee-eater occurs in open woodlands and shrubland, including mallee, and in open forests that are usually dominated by eucalypts. It also occurs in grasslands (Gibson 1986) and, especially in arid or semi-arid areas, in riparian, floodplain or wetland vegetation assemblages (Badman 1989). Its ability to undertake long-distance movements makes this species highly mobile. Given that the Rainbow Bee-eater is predictably a seasonal visitor to the project: it is unlikely regional populations would be impacted upon by the proposed wind farm. Flight height and behaviour is generally unknown for this species to be able to make further conclusions.

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Restless Flycatcher

No Restless Flycatchers were observed during surveys at this site, Restless Flycatcher are often found in the same habitats as the similarly sized Willie Wagtail, occurring in open forests, woodlands, farmland, and inland scrub. The Willy Wagtail was noted as being common across all three Areas in the footprint. They can inhabit Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. leucoxylon and box woodlands, and in open mallee (E. oleosa, E. gracilis) low woodland-low open forests. South-eastern populations disperse widely during winter, move north, and commonly into more open farmland areas.

The Restless Flycatcher feed on insects, as well as other invertebrates such as spiders and centipedes and usually feeds alone or in a pair (Department of Environment, Water, and Natural Resources 2008). The level of risk to this species is considered low based on the risk assessment (see Section 9).

White-winged chough

The White-winged Chough is listed as State rare under the NPW Act 1972. Although this species was not recorded within the footprint of the site, they may still frequent tree filled gullies at certain periods throughout the year. White-winged Choughs prefer open forests and woodlands, and as such any birds may be found within gullies and creekline which rain some levels of native remnant vegetation. Potential habitat exists for this species within the wind farm site, with a preference for vegetated woodland. They tend to prefer the wetter areas, with lots of leaf-litter, for feeding, and mud available for nest building. They forage through the leaf litter and their diet includes termites, beetles, worms, insects, grain, and snails.

Although typical flight height of the White-winged Chough is unknown, most choughs commonly fly at the height of the canopy, or lower to the ground, when travelling between patches of woodland. As such, impacts from wind farm developments would arise from displacement and disturbance, rather than mortality caused by rotor blades. To reduce impacts to White-winged Chough’s, preferred habitat areas should be avoided by the proposed turbine layout. Impact on this species is therefore likely to be negligible as their preferred habitat will not be removed and the species typically flies below canopy height.

8.7.1 Other bird species

Regent Parrot

The Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus) has two distinct sub-species; the western (P. a. anthopeplus) and the eastern. (P.a.monarchoides). Only P. a. monarchoides occurs in South Australia, which is confined to the semi-arid interior of the Murray-Mallee Districts. Its most southerly known populations are located around Murray Bridge. Regent Parrots primarily inhabits riparian or littoral River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) forests or woodlands and adjacent Black Box (E. largiflorens) woodlands. They often occur in farmland, especially if the farmland supports remnant patches of woodland along roadsides or in paddocks. They seldom occur in extensively cleared areas.

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River Red Gum is the preferred nesting tree, with Black Box used occasionally. Nest trees tend to be within 16 m of permanent water, sometimes even located in standing in water (DOE 2013e). Nest sites may also occur near temporary water sources, such as ephemeral streams or seasonal billabongs, but these are usually within about 60 to 100 m of permanent water sites. Nest trees are large, greater than150 cm diameter at breast height and approximately 30 m tall with hollows located 15 to 25 m above the ground surface. Generally about one-third of nests are in dead trees. In South Australia, many birds choose nests in dead trees (Higgins 1999) but have also been known to nest in holes in cliffs along the Murray River (DOE 2013e). Recent evidence from Regent Parrot nest census work indicates that this species is extremely faithful to a particular nesting colony, with hollows often re-used from year to year (DOE 2013e). Breeding takes place between August and December. The preferred nesting and foraging habitats of Regent Parrots are generally within 10 km of one another, although birds may use feeding sites up to 20 km away when necessary. The positive association between the position of Regent Parrot nest sites and the presence of large nearby stands of mallee vegetation highlights the importance and reflects the dependence of the Regent Parrot on mallee vegetation as a feeding habitat during the breeding season (Burbidge 1985). During the breeding season, this subspecies makes two to three return trips each day between breeding sites in River Red Gums and foraging sites in mallee woodland.

Important non-breeding areas include large stands of mallee, which tend to be used for foraging. Preferred areas often comprise of Christmas Mallee (Eucalyptus socialis) and Yellow Mallee (E. incrassata). These large tracts of mallee vegetation often comprise a shrub and herb layer not found in smaller mallee remnants dominated by Dumosa Mallee (E. dumosa), Red Mallee (E. oleosa) and White Mallee (E. gracilis), and it may be the presence of this understorey rather than the mallee trees themselves that is of importance to Regent Parrot. Regent Parrots also feed in woodlands supporting Belah, Buloke and Slender Cypress-pine. Numerous records have also been made of Regent Parrots feeding in open ground near remnant vegetation.

As such, the presence of Regent Parrot within the project area would be restricted to non-breeding periods, and would more than likely constitute nomadic movements due to the lack of suitable foraging habitats. Impacts from the wind farm would, as such, be minimal.

8.8 Reducing impacts to raptors via nest buffers

A range of direct and indirect impacts of wind farms on birds are recognised with mortality via direct collision with turbines being an obvious impact. Other impacts include displacement due to habitat loss and various types of disturbance effects (Drewitt and Langston 2006). There is little available data on the disturbance effects of wind farm developments on birds in Australia.

Suitable buffers need to be considered in the planning process in order to reduce the likelihood of impacts on birds in the area. Buffers are primarily aimed at reducing the disturbance to the birds during breeding and when juveniles are near fledging. Raptor species such as the Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Peregrine Falcon are considered significant when assessing bird interactions with wind farms as they

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The benefit of a buffer around nests is as follows:  Buffers are generally focussed around areas of high activity; these are where either species may potentially nest  During the construction of the proposed wind farm, raptor species are more likely to be at risk of disturbance from activities conducted within close proximity to nest locations. By implementing a buffer, this would contribute to decreasing disturbance levels to these species

 Wedge-tail Eagle and Peregrine Falcons are territorial and typically return to the same area to nest each year. By placing a buffer distance around the nest location, this would assist with lessoning disturbance levels to this species.  Juveniles are particularly susceptible to collision, as newly fledged chicks have not learnt how to forage on their own nor avoid structures such as turbines. Buffers around nest sites will assist in decreasing the chance of a juvenile eagle or falcon colliding with a turbine.

Peregrine Falcon

Buffers should be placed around the five known Peregrine Falcon nesting sites to prevent disturbance. The benefit of a 1000 m nest buffer would be as follows:

 Buffers are generally focussed around areas of high activity, in this instance where the Peregrine Falcon is known to nest  During the construction of the proposed wind farm, Peregrine Falcons are more likely to be at risk of disturbance from activities conducted within close proximity to nest locations. By implementing a buffer distance of 1000 m, this would contribute to decreasing disturbance levels to this species  Peregrine Falcons are territorial and typically return to nest locations each year. By placing a buffer distance around the nest location, this would assist with lessening disturbance levels to this species.

Most USA states have Peregrine Falcon management plans which involve protective buffers designed to protect the birds from disturbance at a range of 150 – 800 m (no disturbance around active nests), with an advised buffer of 800 m set back from the top of the nest cliff (Hayes & Buchanan 2002). US Fish & Wildlife Service guidance on forestry activities indicated that individual cases should be assessed where potentially disturbing activity is required within 400 m (non-breeding season) and within 800 m (breeding season) of a known nesting site (USFWS 1982).

Based on the foraging behaviour of the Peregrine Falcon and the fact a 1000 m buffer has been endorsed by previous wind farm companies (e.g. Pacific Hydro), it is recommended that a 1000 m buffer

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A case study on the potential interactions between Peregrine Falcons and wind turbines, at the Big Thunder Wind Park (in Ontario, Canada), has been detailed by Ince and Associates (2010). Based on the information provided in the report, noise from the turbines at the proposed wind farm is not expected to adversely affect Peregrine Falcons based on several reasons, one of which was the placement of a one kilometre buffer zone from potential nests.

A buffer of between 1000-1500 m has also been recommended by the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) within a draft management plan on the monitoring of Peregrine Falcon nests within eastern Mount Lofty Ranges (I. Falkenberg pers.comm. 2011). Whilst it is unclear as to the rationale behind the buffer range, in the absence of verifiable data, a precautionary approach has been taken with the implementation of a buffer of 1000 m recommended by EBS and adopted by Trustpower.

Breeding Peregrine Falcons are most likely disturbed by human activities taking place around the nest (Herbert & Herbert 1969, Hustler 1983, Ruddoch and Whitfield 2007). From anecdotal observations, referenced in Herbert and Herbert (1969), this species was more likely to be disturbed by human activities near a nesting site compared with Wedge-tailed Eagles.

Wedge-tailed Eagle

In Tasmania a buffer of between 500-1000 m was applied to nests of the endangered Tasmanian subspecies of the Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) when conducting forestry operations during the breeding season. The majority of nests for Aquila audax fleayi occur in forests that are dominated by eucalypts; forest habitats used by the eagle for nesting usually have a closed canopy (Bell and Mooney 1998). In comparison, the mainland species (Aquila audax) is not as restricted in its nesting preference and breeds in open woodland and forested land. A buffer of 500 m (if any) is seen as suitable for mainland Wedge-tailed Eagles (G. Carpenter - DEWNR pers. comm. 2011), in the case of wind turbines and their location in relation to nest sites.

A buffer of 1000 m around nests of Aquila audax fleayi has been recommended at the Cattle Hill Wind Farm in Tasmania to avoid impacts to this species (Hydro Tasmania Consulting 2010). This buffer size was developed using site-specific utilisation data to model collision risk zones at the site, with an area within 1000 m of an active nest deemed to be an area of “high risk”. This is one of the few studies that has utilised data to develop specific buffers (Biosis pers. comm. 2011). The 1000 m buffer is particularly relevant to the Tasmanian subspecies and less applicable to the mainland species which is not reliant on a close canopy forest for nesting suitability.

The establishment of spatial buffers around nesting sites of raptors during the breeding season, to protect them from disturbance during the breeding lifecycle, has been recommended by the United

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States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFS 2011). The size of the buffer should be sufficient to minimise visual and auditory impacts to birds that are associated with human activity, and are species specific (Biosis pers comm. 2011). The buffer distance recommended for Aquila chrysaetos (Golden Eagle), the most closely related species to the Wedge-tailed Eagle, is 0.5 miles (800 m).

Of concern for Wedge-tailed Eagles is the fact birds tend to spend much of their time flying/gliding in windy spots at the head of gullies, preferring the updraft of thermals. This can also be the same location where turbines are located (G. Carpenter, pers.comm.2011). Eagles have also shown a preference for thermal updrafts over a slope (rather than the ridge top) for soaring. Smales (2010) described some of the factors that affect the availability of nest trees in large trees for Wedge-tailed Eagles at the Yaloak South Wind Farm. Updrafts from the escarpments offer reliable aerial environment for soaring eagles.

We can assume that eagles do not just favour gully heads for gliding/flying but rather favour the updraft of thermals wherever available, including slopes, ridge tops or other landscape forms. The data collected from EBS Ecology has not been analysed with respect to location of preferred thermals, and therefore cannot speculate.

At Snowtown Wind Farm in South Australia, a pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles were observed flying approx. 200 m of turbines and nesting within approx. 400 m of where Stage 2 Snowtown has been constructed (A. Derry, pers.comm. 2013) (Figure 69). The recommended 500 m buffer, around eagle nest sites located within the project site, is aimed at decreasing disturbance to WTEs and the risk to WTEs (especially juveniles) colliding with wind turbines. It is recommended that the minimum 500 m buffer be applied to all 12 Wedge-tailed Eagle nest locations. Breeding pairs often switch between multiple nest sites within their territory from one year to the next so it is recommended that all 12 nest locations on site are provided with the buffer, not just active nests. Trustpower has adopted these recommendations into their turbine layout.

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Figure 69. A pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles flying close to where turbines were being constructed in Stage 2 Snowtown.

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8.9 Collision risks

8.9.1 Bird species

One of the principal risks to birds and bats posed by turbines is the potential for individuals to be killed as a result of collision with moving rotor blades (Smales 2006). However, a recently published study from Tasmania by Hull et al (2013) suggests that the likelihood of collision for different species is not related to their abundance on site. Findings showed that approximately 18% (of 85 species) and 21% (of 77 species) of all bird species recorded at two sites were reported to have collided with a turbine. The number of species found during carcass searches is likely to be higher, with 82 and 14 records (at the two sites) not being able to be identified to species level (feather spots were recorded). Although based in Tasmania, species with similar behaviours, such as principally feeding and hunting strategies, occur at Palmer Wind farm and therefore the study by Hull et al (2013) can be utilised to assist in making predictions about potential impacts on bird species.

There are also complexities in the assessment of collision risk for bird species, with species clearly displaying avoidance behaviour within wind farms. Hull and Muir (2013) found that whilst avoidance behaviours varied dependent on species and site, raptors generally displayed a high avoidance rate. This means that they have actively changed their behaviour to avoid turbines. The study by Hull and Muir (2013) concentrated on White-bellied Sea-eagles (Haliaeetus leucogaster) and Wedge-tailed Eagles (Aquila audax fleayi (Tasmanian subspecies)) and found that both species actively change their flight paths to avoid turbines. It was also found that Wedge-tail Eagles have a higher avoidance rate in bad weather (rainy and windy weather) (Hull and Muir 2013). As such, it could be expected that the mainland Wedge-tail Eagle will also exhibit avoidance techniques, and as such may not suffer high collision incidence due to the proposed Palmer Wind farm.

8.9.2 Bat species

The potential impacts of wind turbines on bats are another complex area. Bat collisions have been reported at wind farms in Australia, but few published studies are available. Barotrauma, an impact that is thought to be caused by a sudden drop in pressure around turbine blades, has been suggested as a potential cause of bat deaths at wind farms overseas, but the incidence of barotrauma has been recently queried (Grodskey et al. 2011; Rollins et al. 2012). Collisions with blades are considered to be the primary cause of fatality. In the most extensive Australian study undertaken on the impact of wind farms on bats, Hull and Cawthen (2013) found 54 bat carcasses across two wind farm sites within an eight year period. This is likely to be an underestimation based on survey design, detectability of carcasses and scavenging of carcasses. However, the focus of the Hull and Cawthen (2013) study was to determine the bat species colliding with turbines. It was found that of the 54 carcasses, 38 were of Gould’s Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii), 14 were likely to be Gould’s Wattled Bat and two were likely to be Forest Bats (Vespadelus sp.). Both of these species are open air foragers can make flights at a moderate to high height, placing them within the at-risk zone of a turbine. Several other species, known to occur at the two study sites, were not represented by the carcasses, presumably as they are low-flying / foraging species

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(Hull and Cawthen 2013). Both Gould Wattle Bat and species of Vespadelus have been recorded via AnaBat and during Harp Net capturing at the Palmer site, and as such could be impacted by the proposed wind farm.

8.10 Constraints

During the undertaking of field survey work, the layout and design of the proposed Palmer Wind Farm has evolved to avoid identified ecological constraints.

There are a number of areas that Trustpower has committed to avoiding as part of the wind farm design, either through recommendations by EBS Ecology or from exclusion zones (Figure 70):

 Barossa Protection Zone;  Heritage Agreement;  Lomandra exclusion zones (EPBC category B) - nationally threatened ecological community. It is recommended that avoidance of all EPBC sites occur, however if this is not possible, and if there is a potential impact, this will be assessed within an EPBC Refferal;

 Lomandra exclusion zones (Potential category B) - potential threatened ecological community. It is recommended that avoidance of all EPBC sites occur, however if this is not possible, and if there is a potential impact, this will be assessed within an EPBC Referral and  Turbine exclusion zones - known Wedge-tailed Eagle (500 m buffer between turbines) and Peregrine Falcons nesting sites (1000 m buffer between turbines). Where construction activities are planned within 500 and 1000 m of known Wedge-tailed Eagle and Peregrine Falcon nests respectively during their peak breeding seasons, nest checks should be employed to determine their breeding status and if necessary buffers put in place or specific management strategies implemented to minimise any potential impact on the breeding success of these birds. As far as practicable, construction should be avoided within the buffers during peak breeding where a nest is active. If unavoidable, specific management strategies should be put in place to minimise potential impact in and around nests. This will be incorporated as part of the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

EBS Ecology also recommends that the following sensitive areas should be avoided where possible:

 threatened flora and fauna records  native vegetation of good to excellent condition (with an SEB score of 7:1 - 10:1)  woodland habitats  significant roadside sites  native vegetation along narrow public roads (e.g. where vegetation is of good quality and an alternative option is available)

 scattered trees (including dead trees)

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 creeklines

 preferred fauna habitat including riparian habitats and rocky outcrops.

The sensitive areas (apart from scattered trees, riparian habitats and rocky outcrops) are shown in Figure 71 for Area A, Figure 72 for Area B and Figure 73 for Area C.

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Figure 70. Exclusion zones - Palmer wind farm all areas.

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Figure 71. Sensitive areas to avoid if possible – Area A.

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Figure 72. Sensitive areas to avoid if possible – Area B. 168

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Figure 73. Sensitive areas to avoid if possible – Area C.

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 9 RISK ASSESSMENT

The risk assessment was undertaken to determine the potential impact of the proposed wind farm on bird species where the risk element of concern was collision. The risk assessment was performed for raptor species and threatened bird species known from the site and those species determined as likely to occur from the BDBSA search. The results of the risk assessment are detailed in Table 54. Refer to Table 9 and Table 10 in Section 4.4 for the risk assessment methodology.

The overall level of risk for all species was determined as low. The likelihood of collision causing mortality was determined as unlikely (D) for six raptor species (including the Peregrine Falcon) and five threatened bird species. The likelihood of collision causing mortality was determined as rare (E) for the two bird species that were determined as “likely to occur on site”.

The consequence of mortality at a species/population level was determined as minor (4) for four species: the Peregrine Falcon, Hooded Robin, Elegant Parrot and Diamond Firetail. The consequence of mortality may impact on the local population for these four species, however will not impact on the overall species. Consequence was determined as insignificant (1) for nine species; individuals may be affected, but the viability of local populations will not be impacted upon.

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Table 54. Risk assessment matrix of the proposed Palmer Wind Farm on birds. Likelihood of Likelihood of an Aus SA Consequence at a Scientific name Common name utilising project event causing Level of risk status status species / population level site mortality Raptor species Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low Falco berigora Brown Falcon Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low

Falco cenchroides Peregrine Falcon R Known Unlikely Minor Low

Milvus migrans Black Kite Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low

Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low

Threatened birds Corcorax melanorhamphos White-winged Chough R Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low Melanodryas cucullata cucullata Hooded Robin R Known Unlikely Minor Low Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater Mi Known Unlikely Nil/Insignificant Low

Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot R Known Unlikely Minor Low Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail V Known Unlikely Minor Low

BDBSA determined as ‘Likely to occur on site’ Microeca fascinans Jacky Winter R Likely Rarely Nil/Insignificant Low Myiagra inquieta Restless Flycatcher R Likely Rarely Nil/Insignificant Low

Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. Mi: Migratory. Likelihood definitions (how likely is mortality from collision to occur): Consequence definitions (significance of associated impact on species viability) Chronic – the event is expected to occur in most circumstance Catastrophic disaster – the event has the potential to lead to collapse of species Frequent - the event probably will occur in most circumstances Major– critical event, very likely to have significant impact on species Likely - the event should occur at some time Moderate– likely to have impact on population, potential to impact on long term viability under some scenarios Unlikely – the event could occur at some time Minor – the event may impact on local population, no impact on species Rarely – the event may occur only in exceptional circumstances Nil/Insignificant - individuals may be affected, but viability of local population not impacted.

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 10 COMMITMENTS AND OFFSETS

As a condition of development approval, Trustpower is committed to the following strategies to minimise the impact of the Palmer Wind Farm on native flora and fauna:

 Adhering to the constraints (Figure 70) as detailed in Section 8.10  Provide a 500 m buffer between turbines and known Wedge-tailed Eagles nests  Provide a 1000 m buffer between turbines and known nesting sites for Peregrine Falcons and  Implement weed management strategies (including weed hygiene procedures) to prevent the introduction and spread of weed species on/off site.

Trustpower is committed to developing and implementing as part of their wind farm design the following:

 Submission of an EPBC referral for Lomandra Grassland;

 Clearance application to the Native Vegetation Council;  Weed Management Plan/Rehabilitation Plan and a  Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

Trustpower is also committed to implementing their own internal reporting system for bird strikes at the proposed Palmer Wind Farm.

SEB calculations for all infrastructure components of the Palmer Wind Farm are provided in a separate report to the Native Vegetation Council. The calculation is required by Trustpower to make an appropriate SEB either through on-ground works (draft proposed vegetation management plan) or payment into the Native Vegetation Fund. A total native vegetation clearance of approximately 257.83 ha is proposed associated with the construction of the Palmer Farm project. A total SEB of 384.75 ha is required to be offset for the clearance of native vegetation. The total payment required to satisfy SEB requirements for native vegetation clearance was calculated at $446,732.75.

Trustpower is continuing negotiations with relevant landowners to investigate potential set-aside areas (offsets), some of which are summarised below. In the event that these negotiations prove unsuccessful, Trustpower has the option to make a payment into the Native Vegetation Fund.

Offsets

Some of the potential offsets being considered (prior to project approval) include undertaking restoration activities within:

 areas containing Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) woodland, particularly in Area C to allow the woodland to rehabilitate to an EPBC community Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) grassy woodland of South Australia

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 major creeklines such as Reedy Creek or Marne River to enhance the biodiversity in the region

 areas containing Lomandra Grasslands on east facing hills within Areas A and B to allow the grassland to rehabilitate to an EPBC community Iron-grass natural temperate grassland of South Australia

 high SEB condition remnant vegetation within Area A  Significant roadside vegetation sites (e.g. rabbit control along Three Chain Road).

Another potential offset may include fencing from current grazing practices. This may extend to exploring methods for improving or maintaining areas such as Saunders Creek or Talbots-Harrisons Creeks Confluence Area (mentioned in Section 5.4) e.g. fencing or landholder approval for funds to be allocated for management of these areas.

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 11 MITIGATION MEASURES

EBS Ecology and Trustpower were in regular communication throughout the ecological assessment process. Trustpower made a number of revisions to the turbine and infrastructure layout in response to recommendations by EBS Ecology. EBS Ecology recommended an exclusion zone be adopted around the following:

 nationally threatened ecological communities (or potential threatened ecological communities) as detailed in Section 8.10;

 Heritage Agreements;  known Wedge-tailed Eagle nests - 500 m buffer applied for placement of turbines and

 known Peregrine Falcons nesting sites - 1000 m buffer applied for placement of turbines.

Trustpower has adopted these exclusion zones in the current wind farm design.

EBS Ecology recommends that the following sensitive areas should be avoided where possible:  threatened flora and fauna records;  native vegetation of good to excellent condition (with an SEB score of 7:1 - 10:1);  woodland habitats;  significant roadside sites;

 native vegetation along narrow public roads;  scattered trees (including dead trees);

 creeklines and  preferred fauna habitat including riparian habitats and rocky outcrops (these areas are generally in the valleys and therefore are avoided because the turbines and associated infrastructure are focused on the ridge tops).

Where possible, avoidance of native vegetation has been embedded into the wind farm design. Where complete avoidance of native vegetation or provision of recommended buffers is not possible, Trustpower will endeavour to minimise the level of impact through micro-sighting of infrastructure and site management strategies. Trustpower is committed to utilising existing access tracks and will avoid clearing individual trees, where possible. EBS Ecology has proposed several alternative access track routes in areas B and C to minimise the impact on sensitive vegetation.

11.1 Compliance and legislation

 Thirteen patches of Lomandra grassland located in Areas A and C were assessed against the criteria outlined in EPBC Act Policy Statement 3.7. Following further investigations, Lomandra patch 7 qualified as condition class B. Patch 12 is considered highly likely to be condition class B but was not assessed at the best time of the year. Further EPBC survey of the Lomandra

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patches will be undertaken in late winter/early spring 2014 to confirm their condition. A referral under the EPBC Act 1999 will be required.

 Clearance of native vegetation is likely to be exempt under the Native Vegetation Act 1991 Exemption 5(1) (d) Building or provision of infrastructure, including infrastructure in the Public Interest providing that it complies with each of the sub-sections of the exemption and that an appropriate Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) is implemented. An application is still required.

 Determine a suitable SEB to offset the clearance of native vegetation. The SEB could include:

o the protection of remnant habitat within the survey area (i.e. heritage agreements) o the protection of remnant vegetation on suitable properties in the region (i.e. heritage agreements) o the establishment of an exotic flora control program in the survey area complimented by the bush-regeneration of native vegetation remnants o the establishment of a revegetation program in degraded parts of the survey area o the establishment of a vertebrate pest control program in the survey area to reduce the effect of pest animals, such as foxes and rabbits, on the native fauna in the region, or o A payment to Native Vegetation Fund administered by the Native Vegetation Council.

11.2 Native vegetation and habitat clearance

The following is a list of strategies that will be incorporated as part of the Native Vegetation Application to minimise native vegetation and habitat clearance:  Avoid and protect where possible scattered Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) by using existing tracks during construction. If any scattered trees are to be cleared, then an individual tree assessment will be required.

 In general, Area A contained good habitat in the rocky outcrops and Area C within the gorges. The vegetation in Area B was generally of poor quality. It is advised to avoid areas of good quality vegetation (i.e. SEB 7:1 and above, which covers off on good quality habitat in Areas A and C). This will not only ensure the impact on native vegetation and fauna species is minimised, but will also reduce the potential SEB requirements.

 Develop appropriate environmental management practices and procedures for the construction and operation of the wind farm.

 Avoid where possible using Sperling Road in Area A; use alternative roads such as Sanderston Road and Tuckwells Road to minimise impact.  Avoid where possible using Hentschke Road, Hoads Fire track and Camel Hump Road (eastern hill face section) to minimise impact.

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 Position 33kv over transmission poles in areas A and B in cropping and grazing land along Milendella Road and Three Chain Road; avoid poles situated in high condition vegetation within the road reserve.  A section of proposed access track in area B occurs in Lomandra grassland; Figure 74 indicates a possible alternate route.

 Two sections of the proposed access track surrounding WTG C02 in area C occurs in Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland; Figure 75 indicates an alternate route.

11.3 Weed and soil pathogen management

 Trustpower has committed to ongoing weed management and monitoring, pre, during and post construction of the wind farm. This includes weed management practices and hygiene procedures to ensure that weed species are not introduced to the site or further spread within or off-site. Specific weed management actions will be detailed in the Weed/Pathogen Management Plan.  The project site is located in a ‘Low Risk’ zone for Phytophthora. The accepted management measures for Phytophthora (as per SA DEH 2002a) will be incorporated into the Weed/Pathogen Management Plan.

11.4 Site management

 Instigate appropriate on-site traffic management and vehicle speed restrictions to prevent or limit the chance of fauna being killed or injured

 Flag off sensitive remnant vegetation (which will be addressed within the CEMP)  Minimise noise, vibration and air quality impacts to prevent disturbance to fauna residing adjacent to the works area.

11.5 Buffers

 Implement a 500 m and 1000 m buffer around Wedge-tailed Eagle and Peregrine Falcon nests (respectively)

Trustpower has committed to the placement of turbines at least 500 m from known Wedge-tailed Eagle nest sites and 1000 m from known Peregrine Falcon nest sites (active and inactive). This is a precautionary approach based on available research, to reduce the likelihood of impact associated with the construction and operation of the wind farm.

 Implement a buffer around wooded habitats

In general, implementation of a buffer zone between wooded habitats and turbines will reduce the likelihood of bird and bat interactions. Where possible, the placement of turbines within the

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Figure 74. Possible alternate route – area B.

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Figure 75. Possible alternate route – area C.

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11.6 Additional survey and assessment

Should the project area and extent of proposed impact change, any new areas will require assessment.

The turbine dimensions were indicative at the time of this assessment. If the turbine tower height and blade length differ from the indicative dimensions, this could change the at-risk flight heights and alter the risks posed to birds and bats and EBS Ecology’s recommendations.

Lomandra Grassland Patch 12 (area A) was considered to meet the minimum requirements for EPBC category B if surveyed at the most appropriate time of the year. Two Lomandra patches situated in area B were also identified as potential class B. The EPBC class of these Lomandra patches and others where proposed infrastructure falls will be confirmed through additional assessment early spring 2014.

Area A was burnt during wildfire events in January 2014; this will need to be factored in when undertaking the EPBC Lomandra surveys and considering areas for SEB offset.

Tussocks of Lomandra spp. generally are either resprouters or have a persistent seed bank in the soil post fire. It is understood that older established tussocks that have good energy stores in their tussock base and roots readily regenerate post fire (P. Farmer, pers.comm.2014). Site variables, including the intensity of the fire, soil moisture, rainfall and grazing/browse pressure will determine the rate of regeneration. To assist regeneration destocking the areas is encouraged.

11.7 Pre, during and post construction monitoring

Whilst there is no statutory requirement to monitor at known nest locations, Trustpower has committed to undertaking breeding success monitoring where construction activities are located within known nest buffers (as per Section 8.10). In addition to this, EBS Ecology recommends additional monitoring which could be undertaken on a broader scale (outside of nest buffer interference).

If surveys of Peregrine Falcon and Wedge-tailed Eagle nests are undertaken they should be undertaken during the breeding season (prior to, during and post-construction) to determine breeding status. Repeat survey would help to determine breeding and fledgling success, and provide a means of assessing the disturbance effects, which could be incorporated into future environmental risk assessments.

It is recommended that if monitoring is undertaken it should be during construction and for approximately three years after commissioning. Monitoring would involve a brief site visit at the beginning, middle and end of the breeding season each year to check the status of breeding activity at known nest locations. Specific details with regard to the length of these breeding surveys will be outlined as part of the CEMP. This is likely to occur in June/July (when birds typically pair up), around August (incubation) and around October/November (fledging) each year.

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Palmer Wind Farm Flora and Fauna Survey 13 APPENDICES

Appendix 1. Fauna species list (sourced from the Biological Database of South Australia, August 2013).

Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Amphibians Crinia signifera Common Froglet - - Limnodynastes dumerilii Banjo Frog - - Limnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted Marsh Frog - - Neobatrachus pictus Burrowing frog - - Birds Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater - - Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill - - Acanthiza lineata Striated Thornbill - - Acanthiza nana Yellow Thornbill - - Acanthiza uropygialis Chestnut-rumped Thornbill - - Accipiter cirrhocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk - - Accipiter fasciatus Brown Goshawk - - Acrocephalus australis Australian Reed Warbler - - Aegotheles cristatus Australian Owlet-nightjar - - Alauda arvensis Eurasian Skylark - - Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck - - Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird - - Anthus australis Australian Pipit - - Aphelocephala leucopsis Southern Whiteface - - Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle - - Artamus cyanopterus Dusky Woodswallow - - * Artamus personatus Masked Woodswallow - - Artamus superciliosus White-browed Woodswallow - - Aythya australis Hardhead - - * Barnardius zonarius Australian Ringneck - - Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo - - Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella - - Cacomantis flabelliformis Fan-tailed Cuckoo - - Cacomantis pallidus Pallid Cuckoo - - Chalcites basalis Horsfield's Bronze Cuckoo - - Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck - - Cincloramphus cruralis Brown Songlark - - Cincloramphus mathewsi Rufous Songlark - - Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush - - Feral Pigeon (Rock Dove, Common Columba livia Pigeon) - - Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike - - Corcorax melanorhamphos White-winged Chough - R Corvus coronoides Australian Raven - - Corvus mellori Little Raven - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Corvus sp. - - - Coturnix pectoralis Stubble Quail - - Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird - - Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra - - Daphoenositta chrysoptera Varied Sittella - - Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoebird - - Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron - - Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite - - Eolophus roseicapilla Galah - - Epthianura albifrons White-fronted Chat - - Falco berigora Brown Falcon - - Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel - - * Falco hypoleucos Grey Falcon - R Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon - R Falco subniger Black Falcon - - Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove - - Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark - - Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie - - Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle - - Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow - - Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren - - Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy-wren - - Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner - - Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner - - Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin - ssp * Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater - - * Melopsittacus undulatus Budgerigar - - * Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater - - * Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant - - Milvus migrans Black Kite - - * Mirafra javanica Horsfield's Bush Lark - - Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot - R Nymphicus hollandicus Cockatiel - - Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon - - Pachycephala pectoralis Golden Whistler - - Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler - - Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote - - Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote - - Passer domesticus House Sparrow - - Petrochelidon ariel Fairy Martin - - Petrochelidon nigricans Tree Martin - - Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin - - Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant - - Phaps chalcoptera Common Bronzewing - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater - - Platycercus elegans Crimson Rosella - - Plectorhyncha lanceolata Striped Honeyeater - R Poliocephalus poliocephalus Hoary-headed Grebe - - Pomatostomus superciliosus White-browed Babbler - - Porzana fluminea Australian Spotted Crake - - Psephotus haematonotus Red-rumped Parrot - - Ptilotula ornata Yellow-plumed Honeyeater - - Ptilotula penicillata White-plumed Honeyeater - - Ptilotula virescens Singing Honeyeater - - Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail - - * Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail - - Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill - - Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail - V Strepera versicolor Grey Currawong - - Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling - - Taeniopygia guttata Zebra Finch - - Todiramphus pyrrhopygius Red-backed Kingfisher - - Tribonyx ventralis Black-tailed Native-hen - - Turdus merula Common Blackbird - - Tyto delicatula Eastern Barn Owl - - Tyto novaehollandiae Australian Masked Owl - E Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing - - Vanellus tricolor Banded Lapwing - - Zosterops lateralis Silvereye - - Mammals Hydromys chrysogaster Water-rat - - Lepus europaeus European Brown Hare - - Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo - - Macropus robustus Euro - - * Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat - - Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit (European Rabbit) - - Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum - - Reptiles Christinus marmoratus Marbled Gecko - - Ctenophorus decresii Tawny Dragon - - Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink - - Gehyra lazelli Southern Rock Dtella - - Hemiergis decresiensis Three-toed Earless Skink - - Lerista bougainvillii Bougainville's Skink - - Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink - - Morethia adelaidensis Adelaide Snake-eye - - Nephrurus milii Barking Gecko - - Parasuta nigriceps Mitchell's Short-tailed Snake - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake - - Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. *: Introduced.

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Appendix 2. Flora species list (sourced from the Biological Database of South Australia, August 2013). Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Acacia acinacea Wreath Wattle - - Acacia argyrophylla Silver Mulga-bush - - Acacia calamifolia Wallowa - - Acacia euthycarpa Wallowa - - Acacia halliana Hall's Wattle - - Acacia ligulata Umbrella Bush - - Acacia nyssophylla Spine Bush - - Acacia oswaldii Umbrella Wattle - - Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle - - Acacia retinodes var. (NC) Silver Wattle - - * Acacia saligna Golden Wreath Wattle - - Acacia sp. Wattle - - Acacia wilhelmiana Dwarf Nealie - - Acrotriche patula Prickly Ground-berry - - Actinobole uliginosum Flannel Cudweed - - * Aira cupaniana Small Hair-grass - - Ajuga australis f. B (R.L.Taplin 972) Lesser Bugle - - Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens Bullock Bush - - Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak - - * Alyssum linifolium Flax-leaf Alyssum - - * Anagallis arvensis Pimpernel - - Anthosachne scabra Native Wheat-grass - - * Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed - - * Arenaria leptoclados Lesser Thyme-leaved Sandwort - - Argyranthemum frutescens ssp. * foeniculaceum Teneriffe Daisy - - Aristida australis - R Aristida behriana Brush Wire-grass - - Aristida contorta Curly Wire-grass - - Aristida holathera var. holathera Tall Kerosene Grass - - Arthropodium fimbriatum Nodding Vanilla-lily - - Arthropodium strictum Common Vanilla-lily - - * Asparagus asparagoides (NC) Bridal Creeper - - * Asparagus asparagoides f. - - Asparagus asparagoides f. * asparagoides Bridal Creeper - - * Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed - - Asteridea athrixioides f. athrixioides Wirewort - - Atriplex stipitata Bitter Saltbush - - Austrostipa blackii Crested Spear-grass - - Austrostipa curticoma Short-crest Spear-grass - - Austrostipa drummondii Cottony Spear-grass - - Austrostipa elegantissima Feather Spear-grass - - Austrostipa eremophila Rusty Spear-grass - - Austrostipa exilis Heath Spear-grass - - Austrostipa flavescens Coast Spear-grass - - Austrostipa nitida Balcarra Spear-grass - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Austrostipa nodosa Tall Spear-grass - - Austrostipa platychaeta Flat-awn Spear-grass - - Austrostipa scabra ssp. Rough Spear-grass - - Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass - - Austrostipa tenuifolia - R Austrostipa trichophylla - - * Avellinia michelii Avellinia - - * Avena barbata Bearded Oat - - * Avena fatua Wild Oat - - * Avena sp. Oat - - Azolla filiculoides Pacific Azolla - - Banksia marginata Silver Banksia - - Baumea juncea Bare Twig-rush - - Beyeria lechenaultii Pale Turpentine Bush - - Brachyscome goniocarpa Dwarf Daisy - - Brachyscome lineariloba Hard-head Daisy - - Brachyscome perpusilla Tiny Daisy - - * Brassica sp. - - * Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip - - * Briza maxima Large Quaking-grass - - * Briza minor Lesser Quaking-grass - - Bromus arenarius Sand Brome - - * Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass - - * Bromus diandrus Great Brome - - * Bromus rubens Red Brome - - Bromus sp. Brome - - * Bupleurum semicompositum Hare's Ear - - Burchardia umbellata Milkmaids - - Bursaria spinosa ssp. lasiophylla Downy Bursaria - - Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa Sweet Bursaria - - Caladenia capillata Wispy Spider-orchid - - Caladenia stricta Upright Caladenia - - Calandrinia calyptrata Pink Purslane - - Calandrinia eremaea Dryland Purslane - - Calandrinia volubilis Twining Purslane - - Callistemon rugulosus Scarlet Bottlebrush - - * Callitriche stagnalis Common Water Starwort - - Callitris gracilis Southern Cypress Pine - - Calostemma purpureum Pink Garland-lily - - Calotis hispidula Hairy Burr-daisy - - Carex bichenoviana Notched Sedge - - Carex breviculmis Short-stem Sedge - - Cassinia arcuata Drooping Cassinia - - Cassinia laevis Curry Bush - - * Cenchrus ciliaris/pennisetiformis Buffel Grass - - * Cenchrus clandestinum Kikuyu - - Cheilanthes distans Bristly Cloak-fern - - Cheilanthes lasiophylla Woolly Cloak-fern - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Chenopodium desertorum ssp. Desert Goosefoot - - Chenopodium desertorum ssp. microphyllum Small-leaf Goosefoot - - Chrysocephalum apiculatum Common Everlasting - - Chrysocephalum apiculatum (NC) Common Everlasting - - Chrysocephalum semipapposum Clustered Everlasting - - Chthonocephalus pseudevax Ground-heads - - Clematis microphylla Old Man's Beard - - Clematis microphylla var. microphylla (NC) Old Man's Beard - - Convolvulus clementii - - Convolvulus erubescens (NC) Australian Bindweed - - Convolvulus microsepalus Small-flower Bindweed - - Correa glabra var. turnbullii Rock Correa - - * Cotula coronopifolia Water Buttons - - Crassula colligata ssp. colligata - - Crassula colorata var. acuminata Dense Crassula - - Crassula sp. Crassula/Stonecrop - - Cryptandra tomentosa Heath Cryptandra - - * Cucumis myriocarpus Paddy Melon - - Cullen australasicum Tall Scurf-pea - - * Cynara cardunculus ssp. flavescens Artichoke Thistle - - * Cynodon dactylon (NC) Couch - - * Cynosurus echinatus Rough Dog's-tail Grass - - Cyperus gymnocaulos Spiny Flat-sedge - - * Cyperus hamulosus Curry Flat-sedge - - * Cytisus sp. Broom - - * Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot - - Danthonia sp. (NC) Wallaby-grass - - * Datura wrightii Hairy Thorn-apple - - Daucus glochidiatus Native Carrot - - Daviesia arenaria Sand Bitter-pea - - Daviesia ulicifolia ssp. ulicifolia Gorse Bitter-pea - - Dianella revoluta var. revoluta Black-anther Flax-lily - - Dichondra repens Kidney Weed - - Dillwynia hispida Red Parrot-pea - - Dodonaea baueri Crinkled Hop-bush - - Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata Sticky Hop-bush - - * Echium italicum Italian Bugloss - - * Echium plantagineum Salvation Jane - - * Ehrharta calycina Perennial Veldt Grass - - * Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt Grass - - Einadia nutans ssp. Climbing Saltbush - - Einadia nutans ssp. nutans Climbing Saltbush - - Enchylaena tomentosa var. Ruby Saltbush - - Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa Ruby Saltbush - - Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass - - Eragrostis brownii Bentham's Love-grass - - * Eragrostis cilianensis Stink Grass - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Eragrostis lacunaria Purple Love-grass - R Eremophila alternifolia Narrow-leaf Emubush - - Eremophila glabra ssp. glabra Tar Bush - - Eremophila longifolia Weeping Emubush - - Eriochiton sclerolaenoides Woolly-fruit Bluebush - - * Erodium botrys Long Heron's-bill - - Erodium crinitum Blue Heron's-bill - - Eucalyptus brachycalyx Gilja - - Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. River Red Gum - - Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis River Red Gum - - Eucalyptus cladocalyx (NC) Sugar Gum - - Eucalyptus fasciculosa Pink Gum - R Eucalyptus gracilis Yorrell - - Eucalyptus largiflorens River Box - - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. South Australian Blue Gum - - Eucalyptus odorata Peppermint Box - - Eucalyptus oleosa (NC) Red Mallee - - Eucalyptus phenax (NC) Sessile-fruit White Mallee - - Eucalyptus porosa Mallee Box - - * Eucalyptus sideroxylon Red Ironbark - - Eucalyptus socialis (NC) Beaked Red Mallee - - Eucalyptus socialis ssp. viridans Beaked Red Mallee - - Eucalyptus sp. - - Euphorbia tannensis ssp. eremophila Desert Spurge - - * Euphorbia terracina False Caper - - * Fraxinus angustifolia ssp. angustifolia Desert Ash - - * Fumaria bastardii Bastard Fumitory - - Galium compactum Compact Bedstraw - - Geranium solanderi var. solanderi Austral Geranium - - * Gomphocarpus cancellatus Broad-leaf Cotton-bush - - * Gomphocarpus sp. Cotton-bush - - Gonocarpus elatus Hill Raspwort - - Goodenia albiflora White Goodenia - - Goodenia ovata Hop Goodenia - - Goodenia pusilliflora Small-flower Goodenia - - Goodenia willisiana Silver Goodenia - - Gramineae sp. Grass Family - - Grevillea huegelii Comb Grevillea - - Halgania cyanea Rough Blue-flower - - Hardenbergia violacea Native Lilac - - * Hedypnois rhagadioloides ssp. cretica Cretan Weed - - Helichrysum leucopsideum Satin Everlasting - - Heliotropium asperrimum Rough Heliotrope - - * Heliotropium curassavicum Smooth Heliotrope - - ? Heliotropium europaeum Common Heliotrope - - Hibbertia virgata Twiggy Guinea-flower - - * Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA * Hordeum glaucum Blue Barley-grass - - * Hordeum sp. - - Hyalosperma glutinosum ssp. glutinosum Golden Sunray - - Hyalosperma semisterile Orange Sunray - - * Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear - - Isoetopsis graminifolia Grass Cushion - - Isolepis cernua Nodding Club-rush - - ? Isolepis trachysperma Grassy Club-rush - - Juncus pallidus Pale Rush - - * Lagurus ovatus Hare's Tail Grass - - * Lamarckia aurea Toothbrush Grass - - Leiocarpa tomentosa Woolly Plover-daisy - - Lemna disperma Common Duckweed - - * Lepidium africanum Common Peppercress - - Lepidosperma viscidum Sticky Sword-sedge - - Lissanthe strigosa ssp. subulata Peach Heath - - Lobelia anceps Angled Lobelia - - * Lolium perenne Perennial Ryegrass - - Lomandra densiflora Soft Tussock Mat-rush - - Lomandra effusa Scented Mat-rush - - Lomandra multiflora ssp. Many-flower Mat-rush - - Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura Hard Mat-rush - - * Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn - - Lysiana exocarpi ssp. exocarpi Harlequin Mistletoe - - Lythrum hyssopifolia Lesser Loosestrife - - Maireana brevifolia Short-leaf Bluebush - - Maireana enchylaenoides Wingless Fissure-plant - - Maireana georgei Satiny Bluebush - - Maireana rohrlachii Rohrlach's Bluebush - R Maireana trichoptera Hairy-fruit Bluebush - - * Marrubium vulgare Horehound - - * Medicago minima var. minima Little Medic - - Melaleuca brevifolia Short-leaf Honey-myrtle - - * Melaleuca microphylla - - Melaleuca sp. Tea-tree - - Microtis unifolia (NC) Common Onion-orchid - - Millotia myosotidifolia Broad-leaf Millotia - - Minuria leptophylla Minnie Daisy - - * Moraea setifolia Thread Iris - - Myoporum platycarpum ssp. platycarpum False Sandalwood - - Myriophyllum salsugineum Lake Milfoil - - * Neatostema apulum Hairy Sheepweed - - * Nicotiana glauca Tree Tobacco - - Nicotiana maritima Coast Tobacco - - * Oenothera glazioviana - - * Oenothera sp. Evening Primrose - - * Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta Common Evening Primrose - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Olearia decurrens Winged Daisy-bush - - Olearia pimeleoides Pimelea Daisy-bush - - Omphalolappula concava Burr Stickseed - - Oxalis perennans Native Sorrel - - Oxalis perennans (NC) Native Sorrel - - * Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob - - Oxalis radicosa Downy Native Sorrel - - Parietaria debilis Smooth-nettle - - * Paronychia argentea Silver Whitlow - - * Pentameris airoides ssp. airoides False Hair-grass - - * Phalaris aquatica Phalaris - - * Phalaris minor Lesser Canary-grass - - Pheladenia deformis Bluebeard Orchid - - Phyllanthus saxosus Rock Spurge - - Picris sp. (NC) - - Pimelea micrantha Silky Riceflower - - Pimelea stricta Erect Riceflower - - * Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine - - * Pinus radiata Radiata Pine - - * Pinus sp. Pine - - * Piptatherum miliaceum Rice Millet - - Pittosporum angustifolium Native Apricot - - Plantago sp. Plantain - - Plantago sp. B (R.Bates 44765) Little Plantain - - Pleurosorus rutifolius Blanket Fern - - * Poa bulbosa Bulbous Meadow-grass - - Poa crassicaudex Thick-stem Tussock-grass - - Podolepis rugata var. rugata Pleated Copper-wire Daisy - - Podolepis tepperi Delicate Copper-wire Daisy - - Pogonolepis muelleriana Stiff Cup-flower - - Polycalymma stuartii Poached-egg Daisy - - * Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard-grass - - Pomaderris paniculosa ssp. paniculosa Mallee Pomaderris - - Potamogeton crispus Curly Pondweed - - Potamogeton pectinatus Fennel Pondweed - - Prostanthera aspalathoides Scarlet Mintbush - - Pterostylis biseta Two-bristle Greenhood - - Ptilotus seminudus Rabbit-tails - - Ptilotus spathulatus f. (NC) Pussy-tails - - Ptilotus spathulatus f. spathulatus (NC) Pussy-tails - - Quinetia urvillei Quinetia - - Rhagodia parabolica Mealy Saltbush - - Rhagodia spinescens Spiny Saltbush - - Rhodanthe polygalifolia Milkwort Everlasting - - Rhodanthe pygmaea Pigmy Daisy - - Rhyncharrhena linearis Bush Bean - - * Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant - - * Romulea rosea var. australis Common Onion-grass - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA * Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum Watercress - - * Rosa canina Dog Rose - - * Rostraria cristata Annual Cat's-tail - - * Rumex crispus Curled Dock - - Rumex sp. Dock - - Rytidosperma caespitosum Common Wallaby-grass - - Salsola australis Buckbush - - * Salvia verbenaca var. Wild Sage - - * Salvia verbenaca var. verbenaca Wild Sage - - * Scabiosa atropurpurea Pincushion - - * Schinus molle Pepper-tree - - Scleranthus pungens Prickly Knawel - - Sclerolaena diacantha Grey Bindyi - - * Senecio angulatus Cape Ivy - - Senecio glossanthus Annual Groundsel - - Senecio megaglossus Large-flower Groundsel VU E Senecio pinnatifolius (NC) Variable Groundsel - - Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Groundsel - - Senecio spanomerus - - Senna artemisioides ssp. Desert Senna - - Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris - - Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris (NC) Flat-stalk Senna - - Senna artemisioides ssp. X coriacea Broad-leaf Desert Senna - - Setaria constricta Knotty-butt Paspalidium - - Sida petrophila Rock Sida - - * Silene apetala Sand Catchfly - - * Sisymbrium erysimoides Smooth Mustard - - * Sisymbrium orientale Indian Hedge Mustard - - * Solanum elaeagnifolium Silver-leaf Nightshade - - * Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade - - * Sonchus asper ssp. glaucescens Rough Sow-thistle - - * Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle - - * Sonchus oleraceus (NC) Common Sow-thistle - - Spirodela punctata Thin Duckweed - - Stackhousia monogyna Creamy Candles - - Stellaria sp. Starwort - - Stenopetalum lineare Narrow Thread-petal - - Swainsona lessertiifolia Coast Swainson-pea - - * Taraxacum officinale (NC) Dandelion - - Teucrium corymbosum Rock Germander - - Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass - - Thysanotus patersonii Twining Fringe-lily - - Tragus australianus Small Burr-grass - - * Trifolium angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover - - * Trifolium arvense var. arvense Hare's-foot Clover - - * Trifolium fragiferum var. fragiferum Strawberry Clover - - * Trifolium tomentosum Woolly Clover - -

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Conservation status * Scientific name Common name Aus SA Triodia irritans var. (NC) - - Triptilodiscus pygmaeus Small Yellow-heads - - Trymalium wayi Grey Trymalium - - * Ulex europaeus Gorse - - * Ulmus sp. Elm - - Unidentified sp. - - Velleia arguta Toothed Velleia - - * Vicia monantha ssp. triflora - - Vittadinia cervicularis var. cervicularis Waisted New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia cuneata var. Fuzzy New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia cuneata var. cuneata Fuzzy New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia dissecta var. hirta Dissected New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia gracilis Woolly New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia sp. New Holland Daisy - - Vittadinia sulcata Furrowed New Holland Daisy - - * Vulpia ciliata Fringed Fescue - - * Vulpia myuros f. Fescue - - * Vulpia myuros f. myuros Rat's-tail Fescue - - Wahlenbergia communis Tufted Bluebell - - Wahlenbergia gracilenta Annual Bluebell - - Wahlenbergia littoricola Coast Bluebell - - Wahlenbergia luteola Yellow-wash Bluebell - - Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta Tall Bluebell - - Wahlenbergia tumidifructa Swollen-fruit Bluebell - - Wurmbea dioica ssp. brevifolia Early Nancy - - Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata Rock Grass-tree - - * Zaluzianskya divaricata Spreading Night-phlox - - Zygophyllum aurantiacum (NC) Shrubby Twinleaf - - Zygophyllum confluens Forked Twinleaf - - Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. *: Introduced.

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Appendix 3. Summary of flora species observed from field survey. Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Acacia argyrophylla Silver Mulga-bush Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Acacia cyclops Western Coastal Wattle Y Y Y Acacia euthycarpa Wallowa Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Acacia ligulata Umbrella Bush Y Y Acacia oswaldii Umbrella Wattle Y Acacia paradoxa Kangaroo Thorn Y Y Y Y Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle Y Y Y Y Y Y Acacia salicina Willow Wattle Y Acaena echinata Sheep's Burr Y Y Y * Acetosella vulgaris Sorrel Y Y Acrotriche patula Prickly Ground-berry Y Y Y Y Y Adiantum aethiopicum Common Maiden-hair Y Y * Aira sp. Hair-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Alectryon oleifolius ssp. Bullock Bush Y Y Y Y Y canescens Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Aristida behriana Brush Wire-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Aristida contorta Curly Wire-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Aristida holathera var. holathera Tall Kerosene Grass Y Arthropodium strictum Common Vanilla-lily Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Arundo donax Giant Reed Y Asparagus asparagoides f. Bridal Creeper Y Y asparagoides Asperula conferta Common Woodruff Y * Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed Y Y Y Y Asplenium flabellifolium Necklace Fern Y Y Atriplex semibaccata Berry Saltbush Y Y Austrostipa blackii Crested Spear-grass Y Y Austrostipa drummondii Cottony Spear-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Austrostipa elegantissima Feather Spear-grass Y Y Y Y Y Austrostipa nodosa Tall Spear-grass Y Austrostipa pubinodis Long-shaft Spear-grass Y Y Austrostipa scabra group Falcate-awn Spear-grass Y Y Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Austrostipa setacea Corkscrew Spear-grass Y Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass Y Y Y Y Y * Avena sp. Oat Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Beyeria lechenaultii Pale Turpentine Bush Y Y Y Y Boerhavia sp. Tar-vine Y Y Y Bolboschoenus medianus Marsh Club-rush Y Boronia coerulescens ssp. Blue Boronia Y coerulescens * Bougainvillea sp. Y Brachyscome ciliaris var. Variable Daisy Y Y * Brassica tournefortii Wild Turnip Y Y * Briza maxima Large Quaking-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y * Bromus diandrus Great Brome Y Y Y Y Y * Bromus hordeaceus ssp. Soft Brome Y Y hordeaceus * Bromus rubens Red Brome Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa Sweet Bursaria Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Callitris gracilis Southern Cypress Pine Y Y Y Y Y Callistemon rugulosus Scarlet Bottlebrush Y Calostemma purpureum Pink Garland-lily Y Y * Carduus sp. Thistle Y Y Y Carex sp. Sedge Y Y * Carrichtera annua Ward's Weed Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Carthamus lanatus Saffron Thistle Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Cassinia laevis Curry Bush Y Y Y Y Y Y Cassinia uncata Y * Chamaecytisus palmensis Tree Lucerne Y Y Y Y Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia Annual Rock-fern Y Y Y Y Chloris truncata Windmill Grass Y * Chondrilla juncea Skeleton Weed Y Y Y Y Y Chrysocephalum sp. Everlasting Y Clematis microphylla Old Man's Beard Y Y Y Y Convolvulus angustissimus ssp. Y Y * Convolvulus arvensis Field Bindweed Y Y Y Y Convolvulus erubescens Y complex Convolvulus remotus Grassy Bindweed Y Y Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Correa glabra var. Y Y * Cotula coronopifolia Water Buttons Y Crassula colorata var. Dense Crassula Y Y Y Y Cruciferae sp. Cress Family Y * Cucumis myriocarpus Paddy Melon Y Y Y Cullen australasicum Tall Scurf-pea Y * Cupressus macrocarpa Monterey Cypress Y Y Cymbopogon ambiguus Lemon-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Cymbopogon obtectus Silky-head Lemon-grass Y * Cynara cardunculus ssp. Artichoke Thistle Y Y Y Y Y Y flavescens * Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Couch Y Y Y Cyperus gymnocaulos Spiny Flat-sedge Y Y Y Y Y Cyperus vaginatus Stiff Flat-sedge Y * Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot Y Y Y Dianella brevicaulis Short-stem Flax-lily Y Y Y Dianella revoluta var. Y Y Y Y Y Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Y Y Y Dissocarpus biflorus var. Two-horn Saltbush Y biflorus Dodonaea viscosa ssp. Sticky Hop-bush Y Y Y Y Y Y Drosera peltata Pale Sundew Y Y * Echium plantagineum Salvation Jane Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt Grass Y Y Y Y Y Einadia nutans ssp. Climbing Saltbush Y Y Y Elymus scaber var. scaber Native Wheat-grass Y Enchylaena tomentosa var. Ruby Saltbush Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y tomentosa Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Eremophila alternifolia Narrow-leaf Emubush Y Y Y Y Eremophila longifolia Weeping Emubush Y * Erodium botrys Long Heron's-bill Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Eucalyptus brachycalyx Gilja Y Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. River Red Gum Y Y Y Y camaldulensis Eucalyptus cladocalyx Sugar Gum Y Y Eucalyptus fasciculosa Pink Gum R Y Y Y Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 * Eucalyptus gomphocephala Y Y Eucalyptus gracilis Yorrell Y Eucalyptus incrassata Ridge-fruited Mallee Y Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. South Australian Blue Gum Y Y Y Y Y * Eucalyptus maculata Y Y Eucalyptus odorata Peppermint Box Y Y Eucalyptus phenax ssp. phenax White Mallee Y Eucalyptus porosa Mallee Box Y Y Y Y Y Y Eucalyptus socialis ssp. Red Mallee Y Y Y Y Y Y * Eucalyptus falcata Y Y Euphorbia drummondii Y Y Y Eutaxia microphylla Common Eutaxia Y Y Y Y Festuca sp. Fescue Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Ficinia nodosa Knobby Club-rush Y * Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig Y Y * Foeniculum vulgare Fennel Y Y * Fraxinus angustifolia ssp. Desert Ash Y Y Y angustifolia * Fumaria muralis ssp. Wall Fumitory Y Gahnia lanigera Black Grass Saw-sedge Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Glycine canescens Silky Glycine Y Y Y Y * Gomphocarpus cancellatus Broad-leaf Cotton-bush Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Gonocarpus elatus Hill Raspwort Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Goodenia ovata Hop Goodenia Y * Hedypnois rhagadioloides ssp. Y Helichrysum leucopsideum Satin Everlasting Y Y Y Y Helichrysum scorpioides Button Everlasting Y * Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog Y Y * Hordeum vulgare Barley Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Hypericum perforatum St John's Wort Y * Hypochaeris glabra Smooth Cat's Ear Y Y Y Y Hypoxis vaginata var. vaginata Yellow Star Y Y Juncus kraussii Sea Rush Y Juncus pallidus Pale Rush Y Y Y Y Juncus subsecundus Finger Rush Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Kennedia prostrata Scarlet Runner Y * Lagurus ovatus Hare's Tail Grass Y Y Y Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Lasiopetalum baueri Slender Velvet-bush Y * Lepidium africanum Common Peppercress Y Y Y Leptorhynchos squamatus ssp. Scaly Buttons Y Y Y squamatus Lobelia anceps Angled Lobelia Y * Lolium rigidum Wimmera Ryegrass Y Y Y Y Lomandra effusa Scented Mat-rush Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura Hard Mat-rush Y Y * Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Lysiana exocarpi ssp. exocarpi Harlequin Mistletoe Y Maireana brevifolia Short-leaf Bluebush Y Y Y Y Y Y Maireana enchylaenoides Wingless Fissure-plant Y Y Y Maireana trichoptera Hairy-fruit Bluebush Y Y * Malva arborea Tree Mallow Y Y Y * Malva sp. Mallow Y Y Y * Marrubium vulgare Horehound Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Medicago polymorpha var. Burr-medic Y Y Y Y Y polymorpha * Medicago sp. Medic Y * Medicago truncatula Barrel Medic Y Y Melaleuca lanceolata Dryland Tea-tree Y Y Mentha diemenica Slender Mint R Y * Moraea setifolia Thread Iris Y Y * Morus sp. Mulberry Y Y Y Myoporum platycarpum ssp. False Sandalwood Y * Nicotiana glauca Tree Tobacco Y Y Y Y Y Nicotiana maritima Coast Tobacco Y * Oenothera stricta ssp. stricta Common Evening Primrose Y Y Y * Olea europaea ssp. europaea Olive Y Y Y Y Y Y * Onopordum acanthium Scotch Thistle Y * Onopordum acaulon Horse Thistle Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Opuntia sp. Prickly Pear Y Oxalis perennans Native Sorrel Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Pelargonium australe Austral Stork's-bill Y Y * Pennisetum setaceum Fountain Grass Y * Pentaschistis pallida Pussy Tail Y Y Y * Petrorhagia dubia Velvet Pink Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 * Phalaris sp. Canary Grass Y Y Y Y * Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Palm Y Phragmites australis Common Reed Y Pimelea curviflora var. Curved Riceflower Y Y Y * Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine Y Y * Piptatherum miliaceum Rice Millet Y Y Y Pittosporum angustifolium Native Apricot Y Y Podolepis rugata var. Pleated Copper-wire Daisy Y Podolepis tepperi Delicate Copper-wire Daisy Y Pogonolepis muelleriana Stiff Cup-flower Y * Polycarpon tetraphyllum Four-leaf Allseed Y Y Y * Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard-grass Y * Populus sp. Poplar Y Prostanthera behriana Downy Mintbush Y * Prunus dulcis Almond Y Pteridium esculentum Bracken Fern Y Ptilotus erubescens Hairy-tails R Y Y Y Ptilotus spathulatus Pussy-tails Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Reichardia tingitana False Sowthistle Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Retama raetam White Weeping Broom Y Y Rhagodia parabolica Mealy Saltbush Y Rhodanthe pygmaea Pigmy Daisy Y Rhodanthe sp. Everlasting Y Y Y Y * Romulea rosea var. australis Common Onion-grass Y Y * Romulea sp. Onion-grass Y Y * Rosa canina Dog Rose Y Y Y Y Rumex brownii Slender Dock Y Y Y Y Rytidosperma erianthum Hill Wallaby-grass Y Y Rytidosperma fulvum Leafy Wallaby-grass Y Y Rytidosperma sp. Wallaby-grass Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Salix sp. Willow Y Y Salsola tragus Buckbush Y Y Y Y * Salvia verbenaca var. Wild Sage Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Santalum acuminatum Quandong Y Y * Scabiosa atropurpurea Pincushion Y Y Scaevola albida Pale Fanflower Y Y * Schinus molle Pepper-tree Y Y Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Scleranthus pungens Prickly Knawel Y Y Sclerolaena diacantha Grey Bindyi Y * Senecio angulatus Cape Ivy Y Senecio hypoleucus Pale Groundsel Y Y Senecio odoratus Scented Groundsel Y Y Y * Senecio pterophorus African Daisy Y Y Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Groundsel Y Senna artemisioides ssp. Desert Senna Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Senna artemisioides ssp. Desert Senna Y coriacea Senna artemisioides ssp. Y petiolaris Setaria constricta Knotty-butt Paspalidium Y Y Y Setaria jubiflora Warrego Summer-grass Y Sida petrophila Rock Sida Y Y Y * Sisymbrium erysimoides Smooth Mustard Y Y * Solanum elaeagnifolium Silver-leaf Nightshade Y Y Y Y Y * Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Y Y Y * Sonchus asper ssp. Rough Sow-thistle Y Spyridium parvifolium Dusty Miller Y * Tamarix aphylla Athel Pine Y * Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Teucrium corymbosum Rock Germander Y Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass Y Y Y Y Y * Trifolium angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover Y Y Y Y Y Y * Trifolium arvense var. arvense Hare's-foot Clover Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Trifolium campestre Hop Clover Y Y * Trifolium repens White Clover Y Y Y Triglochin procera Water-ribbons Y Triglochin striata Streaked Arrowgrass Y Triodia irritans Spinifex Y Y Trymalium wayi Grey Trymalium Y Y Y Typha sp. Bulrush Y Y Y * Ulex europaeus Gorse Y Y Urtica sp. Stinging Nettle Y Y Velleia paradoxa Spur Velleia Y Y Y * Verbascum virgatum Twiggy Mullein Y Y Y

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Conservation Vegetation Association * Scientific name Common name status Aus SA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Vittadinia cuneata var. Fuzzy New Holland Daisy Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Vittadinia gracilis Woolly New Holland Daisy Y Y Y Y Y Y Y * Vulpia myuros f. Fescue Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Wahlenbergia sp. Native Bluebell Y Y Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta Tall Bluebell Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata Rock Grass-tree Y Y Y Y Zygophyllum aurantiacum ssp. Twinleaf Y Y Y Y Y Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. *: Introduced.

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Appendix 4. Vegetation type and condition at the proposed turbine locations.

Vegetation Turbine Vegetation association Vegetation association description no. condition no.

A01 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 A02 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 A03 12 Exotic / native Grassland 4:1 A04 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 A05 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum A06 4 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 6:1 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum A07 4 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 6:1 A08 12 Exotic / native Grassland 4:1 A09 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 A12 12 Exotic / native Grassland 4:1 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum A14 4 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 6:1 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum A15 4 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 6:1 A17 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 Acrotriche patula (Prickly Ground-berry) / Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) scattered Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) / scattered Pittosporum A18 4 angustifolium (Native Apricot) Mixed Shrubland 6:1 Scattered Lomandra effuse (Scented Mat-rush) / exotic / A19 16 native Grassland 2:1 B01 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B02 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B04 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 B05 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B06 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B07 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B08 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B09 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B10 15 Planted vegetation / Revegetation 1:1 B11 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B12 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B13 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1

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Vegetation Turbine Vegetation association Vegetation association description no. condition no.

B14 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B15 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B16 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 B17 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B18 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B19 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B20 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B21 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B22 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B23 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B24 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Exotic / native Grassland scattered Eucalyptus B25 13 camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) 1:1 B26 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B27 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B28 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 B29 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B30 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B31 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B32 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B33 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B34 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B35 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 B36 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B37 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B38 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B39 12 Exotic / native Grassland 2:1 B40 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B41 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B42 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B43 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B44 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B45 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B46 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B47 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B48 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B49 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B50 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B51 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B52 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1

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Vegetation Turbine Vegetation association Vegetation association description no. condition no.

B53 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B54 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B55 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B56 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B57 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Exotic / native Grassland scattered Eucalyptus B58 13 camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) 1:1 B59 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B60 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 B61 14 Juncus subsecundus (Finger Rush) Drainage Areas 1:1 B62 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C01 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C02 9 Eucalyptus odorata (Peppermint Box) Woodland 4:1 C03 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C04 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C05 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C06 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C07 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C08 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C09 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C10 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C11 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C12 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C13 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C14 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C15 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C16 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C17 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C18 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C19 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C20 8 over exotic / native Grassland 3:1 Scattered Lomandra effuse (Scented Mat-rush) / exotic / C21 16 native Grassland 2:1 C22 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C23 7 over Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa) 5:1 C24 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C25 8 over exotic / native Grassland 4:1

C26 8 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland 3:1

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Vegetation Turbine Vegetation association Vegetation association description no. condition no.

over exotic / native Grassland Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C27 7 over Acacia euthycarpa (Wallowa) 5:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C28 8 over exotic / native Grassland 3:1 C29 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C30 8 over exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C31 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C32 8 over exotic / native Grassland 3:1 C33 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C34 8 over exotic / native Grassland 4:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C35 8 over exotic / native Grassland 3:1 C38 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1 Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Very Open Woodland C39 8 over exotic / native Grassland 1:1 C40 12 Exotic / native Grassland 1:1

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