2014
Blue Lagoon Draft Management Plan
Acknowledgements: The work done by Chris and Sally Johns in the preparation of the Draft Action Plan for the Blue Lagoon Reserve Work carried out within the reserve by the Southern Beaches Landcare/Coastcare, the Sorell Primary School and the Dodges Ferry Community
We would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land.
Contents
1.0 Introduction………………………………………………………….. 1 1.1 Background…………………………………………………………… 1 1.2 Reserve Values………………………………………………………. 3 1.3 Community Consultation…………………………………………….. 3 2.0 Scope…………………………………………………………………. 3 3.0 Goals………………………………………...... 4 4.1 Vision Statement…………………………………………………… 4 5.0 Risk Management…………………………………………………… 4 6.0 Flora and Fauna…………………………………...... 4 6.1 Threatened Species………………………………………………….. 5 6.2 Weeds………………………………………………………………..... 6 6.3 Pine Tree Removal…………………………………………………… 7 6.4 Vegetation Maintenance…………………………………………….. 7 7.0 Urban Impact………………………………………………………… 7 8.0 High Rainfall Events……………………………………………….. 8 9.0 Litter, Waste Management and Water Quality…………………. 8 10.0 Access Management………………………………………………. 9 10.1 Signage………………………………………………………………... 10 11.0 Dog Control and Management……………………………………. 10 12.0 Cultural Heritage……………………………………………………. 10 12.0 Climate Change…………………………………………………...... 11 14.0 Community Support and Resources…………………………….. 11 15.0 Landscape……………………………………………………………. 12 16.0 Management Categories…………………………………………… 13 Table 1: Pine tree Removal……………………………………….. 14 Table 2: Pine tree Removal Timeline……………………………. 14 Table 3: Flora and fauna Management………………………….. 15 Table 4: Access and Dog Management …………………………. 15 Table 5: Water Quality and Litter Management ………………… 16 Table 6: Community Activities ……………………………………. 16 Table 7: Weed Management …………………………………….. 17 17.0 Weed Lifecycle and Control……………………………………. 17 17.1 Mirror Bush …………………………………………………………… 18 17.2 Radiata Pine………………………………………………………….. 18 17.3 Bone Seed……………………………………………………………. 19 17.4 Tree Lucerne………………………………………………………….. 19
Map 1: Site Location…………………………………………………. 1 Map 2: Access………………………………………………………… 20 Map 3: Pine Tree Removal Site Map………………………………. 21
Appendix 1 22 Flora Species List…………………………………………………. 22 Fauna Species List………………………………………………... 22 Avian Species List…………………………………………………. 22 Invertebrate Species List…………………………………………. 22
1.0: Introduction
Blue Lagoon Reserve is an important ephemeral wetland and dune system, located in the urban environment of Dodges Ferry. The reserve approximately 7.66 ha in area is approximately 9 km south-east of Sorell and 24 km west of Hobart.
Under the Sorell planning scheme the site is zoned Open Space. The reserve is bounded by private property and Carlton Beach Road to the south-east, the Boat- ramp Park and Kannah Street to the north and Frederick Henry Bay to the South- west. The Reserve is owned and managed by Sorell Council.
Map 1: Blue Lagoon Reserve
1.1. Background Early settlers cleared most of the native vegetation around the lagoon using the area for various purposes. At one time this included the development of an orchard. Pinus radiata was planted as a wind break with the water used for irrigating the fruit trees. Over time the pines have self-seeded creating a dense forest.
Later the lagoon was a popular place for holiday makers with children using small water craft in the Lagoon. In the 1950’s the lagoon held water permanently up to waist depth in places. It was habitat for several small fish species. Southern Beaches Landcare/Coastcare Inc (SBL/C), an active community group, has been caring for the local coastal environment for the past twenty years. The SBL/C is dedicated to the conservation of the local environment in the Dodges Ferry, Lewisham and Primrose Sands area of South East Tasmania.
In 2007 the group successfully applied for an Envirofund grant from the Australian Government. The grant, with support from Sorell Council, was for the restoration and rehabilitation of the wetland area known as Blue Lagoon.
Key aspects of the Envirofund project included: Staged removal of identified mature Pine trees Revegetation with appropriate local native species Purchase of equipment for water quality monitoring Field days to help educate local people about the lagoon and its environmental values The development of a Management Plan to guide the group and Sorell Council in joint strategic management of the Lagoon.
Sorell School Landcare, SBL/C and Sorell Council have worked jointly to remove weeds and undertake revegetation at the lagoon for a number of years.
In response to urban development within the surrounding area council has completed works on the natural drainage within the lagoons wider catchment including the Frederick Henry Bay outlet. The outlet drain is only operational after extreme flood events and is subject to ‘silting’ up by windblown sand Drainage works in the catchment included the installation of storm water pits, alteration of the main stream by road works associated with the creation of subdivisions for housing and the underground piping of the natural stream Water from urban areas can contain silt, nutrients and litter significantly impacting waterways and wetlands There is a potential for seepage from septic systems to impact the water quality of waterways and wetlands
Reduced rainfall has, in the past, impacted heavily on the lagoon. At times the lagoon has only held water for short periods of time with an approximate depth of 20- 30cm. During these times four wheel drive vehicles have accessed the wetland damaging sensitive plant species and allowed the dumping of garden waste.
Despite the general degradation of Reserve the wetland is still an important habitat for native plants and animals particularly frogs and invertebrates. The lagoon is used by both resident birds and sea birds nesting on nearby Spectacle and Little Spectacle Islands, State Nature Reserve.
In 2007, with community support, Council obtained an Australian Government funded Green Corps team. Some remedial works were carried out and through this process it was identified that a strategic management plan was required. This reflected the community’s concern for the lagoon’s ongoing environmental well- being.
This plan recognises that to obtain a self-sustaining and healthy ecosystem within an urban environment rehabilitation of the wetland is imperative. The success of this plan requires a joint commitment between Council, relevant stakeholders and the community.
1.2. Reserve Values The values of the reserve are categorised in the following key areas; scientific social landscape amenity recreation habitat threatened species
Wetlands are considered amongst the most productive habitats in the world. They have historically provided a rich food source for humans as well as important breeding and nursery habitat for numerous fish, shellfish, birds, mammals and plants.
As well as hydrologic functions including flood mitigation wetlands recycle carbon, nitrogen, and water to varying degrees. The removal and storage of carbon from the atmosphere is seen as an important process in reducing the greenhouse effect and the threat of global warming.
Social values are often considered to be an intangible asset to a community. The realisation of the value to a community is apparent when the cost of remedial works is met by the community. The environment associated with the reserve means different things to different people within a community. These include an educational site for local schools, recreation, public open space and a site containing important remnant habitat.
1.3. Community Consultation The successful implementation of this management plan will be dependent on the continued involvement and collaboration of the local and wider community.
2.0: Scope
This Management Plan does not include the adjoining ‘Boat Park’. Although priority is given to the reserve due consideration must be given to impacts from the surrounding Dodges Ferry landscape.
The Management Plan includes recommendations to conserve and rehabilitate the reserve to assist Council and stakeholders in investigating potential funding opportunities for future rehabilitation projects.
3.0: Goals
To identify, manage and protect Blue Lagoon Reserve’s natural wetland environment To guide the long term restoration of the Reserve To identify appropriate areas for managed recreational opportunities To support funding bids and allocation of resources To explore ways of engaging local community involvement in caring for and experiencing the reserve
4.0. Vision Statement
The Blue Lagoon Reserve is valued by the Dodges Ferry and broader community as an ecological and culturally significant location.
Blue Lagoon Reserve is actively managed through an integrated approach to conserve and enhance its biodiversity values that include National and State significant species.
Opportunities for local residents to learn and engage with wetland environments will be provided for through interpretive signage and informal trails.
The Reserve provides low impact, passive tourism opportunities for bird watching, photographers, naturalists and education and science opportunities for local and regional students.
5.0. Risk Management
The reserve is owned and managed by Sorell Council with council having the prime responsibility for risk management.
Recommendations: Council will work with community groups to coordinate volunteer activities within the reserve. Council to co-ordinate contractors regarding OH&S requirements when working within the reserve. SBL/C will nominate a ‘safety officer’ for each SBL/C organised working bee.
6.0. Flora and Fauna
The native flora and fauna in the reserve is under threat from the dense infestation of Pinus radiata and other weeds including boneseed Chrysanthemoides monilifera, urban impacts and water quality issues.
However there are good communities of wetland plants including Sedges, Reeds and Small Herbs within wetter areas.
Flora Two types of vegetation communities have been identified as being present within the reserve using DPIPWE’s TASVEG Codes. These communities are: FAG; urban or agricultural vegetation NAV; Allocasuarina verticillata forest
Fauna No systematic surveys of vertebrate and invertebrate fauna have been undertaken within the reserve. Information regarding fauna present is therefore incomplete.
Recommendation: Council will work with SBL/C and interested people to identify vertebrate and invertebrate fauna as part of its water quality monitoring activities
6.1. Threatened Species Threatened species have been identified in the local area that may use the reserve. These include the Eastern Barred Bandicoot Perameles gunnii listed as vulnerable under EPBC Act 1999, the Green and Gold frog Litoria raniformis listed as vulnerable under EPBC Act and the Tasmanian Threatened Species Act 1995.
The reserve has the potential to be visited by other threatened species including the Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor listed as endangered under EPBC Act and Tasmanian Threatened Species Act 1995).
Threatened fauna and flora communities may require extra resources to manage and protect them.
Recommendations: A detailed vegetation survey should be undertaken to identify all plants including non-native and native including threatened species and vegetation communities A detailed fauna survey should be untaken to identify all resident and transient fauna including threatened species Council and SBL/C to investigate funding opportunities to assist interested groups to hold field days with appropriate experts to identify threatened fauna, flora or vegetation communities. Council to investigate creating a database to store survey and field day results to avoid threats during future on ground works. Council and SBL/C to include any identified threatened flora species, flora communities and/or fauna in the ‘Natural Values Atlas’ at www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au
The reserve may contain potential habitat for threatened species listed under both State and Federal threatened species legislation. Information and notification can be obtained from Threatened Species Section DPIPWE. www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au Threatened species lists and notes on fauna identification can be obtained from www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au
6.2. Weeds The native flora and fauna in the reserve has been severely impacted by the dense infestation of Pinus radiata. The Pines shade other plants, compete for space, and change soil acidity and soil moisture. As a consequence there is a marked absence of species that would be expected in a wetland environment. However the pines do provide habitat and shelter for some transient fauna. It is therefore important that pine tree removal is undertaken in a staged manner along with revegetation of appropriate native species and that these plantings are given time to provide adequate shelter before treating adjoining areas.
Other weeds such as Boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera) and Asparagus Asparagus sp. can be removed at any time.
Recommendation: Prior to weed removal any native flora and fauna using the area for habitat should be identified with appropriate action taken. Priority should be given to Weeds of National Significance (WONS) and Declared Weeds in Tasmania (DPIPWE) and the relevant legislation i.e. Weed Management Act 1999. Weed removal is to be undertaken from the least affected area to the worst Investigate an education programme for neighbouring landowners to prevent garden plant escapees through the dumping of garden waste including pruning’s and lawn clippings Volunteers are not to use any kind of herbicide spray application within the reserve Volunteers are not permitted to use chainsaws within the reserve Council and SBL/C to work with volunteers to ensure that volunteers have the required knowledge in the safe use of herbicides, such as ‘cut and paste’ techniques. SBL/C and other volunteers undertaking weed control works are to consult the information contained in the Weed Lifecycle and Control Option section of this plan.
6.3. Pine tree removal
Staged Pine tree removal is to be undertaken so that habitat provided by the trees is not removed prior to revegetation establishment.
Pines should be removed during dry periods to reduce the chance of machinery bogging and disturbance to the lagoon.
Pine tree removal will be done in consultation between Council, SBL/C, stakeholders and contractors.
Larger pine logs can be retained and positioned within the reserve to provide habitat. Smaller trees and limbs are to be chipped for use as mulch around new plantings.
Recommendations: Council will work with SBL/C, stakeholders and contractors regarding pine tree removal Council will ensure that contractors are aware of their obligations to cease work immediately if any midden material or Cultural Heritage artefacts are found during works and notify Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania Council will work with SBL/C in the placement of Pine logs within the reserve
6.4. Vegetation maintenance The timing and frequency of regular vegetation maintenance activities including mowing, slashing or pruning to take into account the requirements of flora communities such as flowering times.
Recommendation: Council to investigate the appropriate mowing/slashing timing to encourage the development of native grasses, sedges and reeds.
7.0. Urban Impact
The reserve water and land ecosystems are impacted by activities that occur in the local area. These activities include un-authorised vehicle access, uncontrolled dogs, feral cats, the dumping of garden waste/clippings, storm water runoff, septic tank seepage and litter. The reserve is subject to hydrological changes as a result of drainage works within the catchment.
Whilst visitors are encouraged to enjoy the reserve associated negative impacts on the reserve must be addressed through management strategies and actions.
Future development within the adjoining catchment such as infill building and sub- divisions increase pressure on the reserve’s ability to remain as a sustainable functioning wetland. 8.0. High Rainfall Events
During high rainfall events neighbouring private properties are subject to the risk of inundation and the failure of septic systems. One of the potential high rainfall event impacts of wetlands within an urban environment is the conflict between protecting property and the sustainable management of wetland environments.
A high rainfall event in autumn 2009 and the associated flooding of Blue Lagoon highlighted the need for a more sustainable management of the lagoon overflow. Members of the community and SBL/C expressed concerns over public safety and environmental impacts of the flood outflows.
Key points to be considered include: Investigate an engineering solution that allows the lagoon to fill to a manageable and environmentally beneficial level before overflowing Investigate the construction of a weir that will permanently set an identified water level Seek expert advice in regards to best practice methods of works in wetlands and waterways and apply for the appropriate permits from DPIPWE Investigate the placement of clean stone in the outfall stream bed to reduce erosion in future flood events. Investigate the removal of Pine trees adjacent to the outfall Investigate Kannah Street road-side drainage for improved runoff management Investigate revegetation and rehabilitation work for disturbed areas upon completion of works
Recommendation: Council and stakeholders to investigate an appropriate engineering solution and associated funding opportunities to address the negative impact of high rainfall events while allowing for future mitigation works to be strategically planned to ensure the sustainable management of the wetland.
9.0. Litter, Waste Management and Water Quality
Water quality within the lagoon is impacted by various land uses within the catchment and adjacent properties. Uses include recreational, emergency services buildings, car parks, private dwellings, urban expansion including works associated with sub-divisions and roads and stormwater. Sediments from urban areas, building and development and roads impact on fresh water and marine aquatic ecosystems Pathogens from septic/sewerage leaks and animal faeces impact on water quality and can lead to beach closures Chemicals entering waterways through spills, some construction activities or illegal chemical disposal into storm water drains can lead to the death of plants and animals within the lagoon Nutrients including fertilisers, detergents and decaying organic matter can result in excessive algal and weed growth Gross pollutants and urban litter including plastic and paper can impact fauna through ingestion and/or snaring as well as the leaching of chemicals from the decomposition of various materials
To help reduce the negative impacts of urban development on the lagoon and waterways council will investigate the potential for developing policies and actions for: Integrated Water Cycle Management (IWCM) – integrated management of all water sources to maximise benefits to the community and environment Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) – minimising the impact of urban development on waterways/bays and promoting water conservation Council will endeavour to identify failing on-site systems and require owners to upgrade systems Council will provide householders with information on how to maintain a septic systems To assist builders and developers to use ‘Soil and Water Management on Building and Construction Sites’ produced by the Australian and State Government, NRM south, Derwent Estuary Program and Local Government or any other management resources that Council considers appropriate. Regular monitoring and cleaning of storm water inflow pipes of sediment and litter adjacent to the lagoon as part of council’s maintenance regime Council to work with SBL/C to organise a ‘clean up Australia day’ event, in March each year, to pick up litter from Blue Lagoon Council to work with SBL/C to investigate setting up the monitoring of water entering and within the lagoon to direct appropriate remedial actions Council to work with SBL/C to encourage environmental awareness activities, such as the connectivity of households to wetlands Council will lobby TasWater to provide reticulated sewerage for the Southern Beaches area
10.0. Access Management
Access should be managed to allow public use of the reserve while protecting its environmental values. Existing trails can be rationalised with some closed and revegetated.
Access to the reserve is required for both vehicles (including emergency vehicles) and pedestrians carrying out on ground works and passive recreation. Vehicle access can be controlled by using lock-down posts and fencing. Vehicle access points should be kept away from roadway corners and located where there will be minimum impact on vegetation. Tracks should be located away from the lagoon edge keeping to higher ground where possible.
Recommendations: Council will work with SBL/C on the location, standard and retention/closure of all tracks to maximise track network efficiency while minimising impacts Following a trail audit Council will work with SBL/C to rehabilitate trails no longer required The use of track hardening materials will be limited to identified areas within the reserve ensuring any material used is free of contaminants including weed seed and soil pathogens Council will investigate funding opportunities for rest seats and interpretive signage at nominated point/s Council will continue to assess walkways and trails for risks and hazards as part of its normal reserve maintenance regime
10.1. Signage Signs can be used to direct, inform and assist visitors to help protect the values of an area.
Recommendations: Council will investigate the need for and funding opportunities for prohibited activity signage e.g. no motorbikes and horses etc Council will investigate funding opportunities to erect walkway signs that notify suitability for wheelchair or pram use at the beginning and end of suitable paths Council to investigate funding opportunities for interpretive signage to inform and educate visitors and the wider community about the environmental and recreational values of the reserve Council will work with the community including schools in designing interpretive signage
11.0. Dog control and management
Consultation between the community, stakeholders and Council has determined that uncontrolled dogs are a threat to the environmental values of the reserve.
The reserve should not be considered as an appropriate place for an off lead dog exercise area. The adjacent Blue Lagoon beach is an off lead dog exercise area.
Control of dogs should be in the form of leads, within the reserve. Compliance of dog control by-laws requires educating dog owners.
Recommendations: Council to investigate nominating Blue Lagoon as a ‘dogs permitted on lead’ area and erect signage to inform the public Council to investigate the possibility of the inclusion of a leaflet with dog registration about how dog owners can enjoy their pet and help protect the environment
12.0. Cultural Heritage
Southern Beaches Landcare/Coastcare commissioned an Aboriginal Heritage Report for parts of Blue Lagoon and recommendations contained within should be adhered to by all stakeholders.
Recommendations: Before any on ground works take place in areas not covered by this report, an Aboriginal Heritage Survey must be completed in line with State (Aboriginal Lands Act 1995) and Federal Legislation (Ask First; Australian Heritage Commission) and necessary permits obtained. Council, SBL/C, contractors and stakeholders will cease work immediately if any midden material or artefacts are found during works and notify Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania. SBL/C will provide Council with a copy of the Blue Lagoon Aboriginal Heritage Survey report. FIND
13.0. Climate Change
It is beyond the scope of this plan to accurately predict possible impacts of Climate Change on the reserve however some potential issues can be identified.
Water Drought or reduced annual rainfall will impact water levels significantly impacting flora and fauna habitat. The success of revegetation works may be impacted as well. Establishment watering may be required to ensure revegetation survival rates. As across other landscapes there may be changes to plant communities including threatened species.
Sudden high rainfall events may impact stream dynamics from the associated catchment runoff resulting in localised flooding. The capacity of infrastructure to cope with storm events as well as debris build-up may be an impacted. Changes to infrastructure and/or increased maintenance schedules will have increased associated costs.
Sea Level Blue Lagoon may be impacted by predicted sea level rises. Sea level rises have the potential to the lagoons outflow point significantly reducing the ability for the reserve to shed excess water during storm events.
Recommendations: Council will work with SBL/C to investigate possible ways of monitoring negative impacts of climate change on Blue Lagoon Stakeholders will be consulted if any remedial works are required Council will provide water for revegetation plantings where possible
14.0. Community Support and Resources
Engaging the community is a key way of protecting and enhancing the natural values of the reserve. This could take the form of an annual National tree planting day for Schools and the community. Interest in holding field days and/or workshops such as water quality monitoring, frog identification and planting days should be investigated.
Effective management of the reserve will require Council to work closely with SBL/C other environmental organisations and stakeholders.
Environmental care groups have limited resources and whilst they are an important asset they can only contribute to the best of their respective volunteers.
Volunteers provide many different levels of expertise as well as time and physical labour. Potential Activities: Revegetation sites: ‘National tree planting day’ for Schools and community ‘Weed Buster’ event Flora and Fauna surveys Frog Identification workshop/field day ‘Clean Up Australia Day’ Events Volunteer training Water Quality Monitoring (Community & School)
Council will consider the following groups and organisations as potential participants: Wildcare (PWS) SCAT (Southern Coastcare Association of Tasmania Inc.) TPT (Threatened Plants Tasmania) Extra Hands (Tasmanian Landcare) CVA (Conservation Volunteers Australia) Polytechnic (Conservation and Land Management section) Dodges Ferry Primary School Sorell School Landcare group UTAS
Recommendations: Council will investigate the suitability of the reserve as a possible Land for Wildlife site Council to work with SBL/C to compile a list of interested local participants to working bees Council will maintain and restock, when necessary, the equipment in its Landcare trailer and offer it for community group’s use Council to work with SBL/C in supporting the administration of volunteers as well as materials Council will continue to support volunteer groups and provide assistance and equipment when possible Council will work with SBL/C to identify and encourage other volunteer groups and organisations including university research students to participate in surveys and field days etc Council will work with SBL/C to invite school groups to participate in on ground works such as weed removal and revegetation Council to work with SBL/C in encouraging the Sorell School Landcare Group to undertake water quality monitoring activities using SBL/Cs’ equipment
15.0. Landscape
The reserve currently has a role in the wider landscape of the southern beaches area, both as green space and habitat for our native plants and animals. Increased population growth with associated changes to the surrounding area, combined with possible negative impacts of climate change, will put pressure on the sustainability of local wetlands and their fauna and plant communities. The reserve will have a role to play in the future preservation of the natural remnant wetland environment in the Dodges Ferry area.
The reserve is too small to support any populations of large fauna. Animals particularly birds move in and out of the reserve as food sources and water levels change. However the lagoon is large enough to support viable populations of smaller vertebrate and invertebrate fauna. Links or vegetation corridors that animals can move through should be developed and maintained between the reserve, public and private land areas as well as to larger bushland areas to the east. Private landowners could be encouraged to conserve small patches of remnant vegetation to provide corridors for native animals to traverse the landscape Sorell Council to work with SBL/C and stakeholder government agencies to maintain vegetation corridors along the Coastal Reserve linking the reserve to vegetated areas along Red Ochre Beach and Tiger Head.
16.0: Management categories
The following Values and Resources section has been incorporated into Management Categories to make it easier to allocate resources to various tasks.
For example when actions are required in relation to Access Management then the relevant section can be consulted for the appropriate actions. Indication has been given for each action to how Council, SBL/C and stakeholders can work together to effectively achieve desirable outcomes.
Table 1: Pine tree removal Table 2: Flora and Fauna Management Table 3: Access and Dog Management Table 4: Water Quality and Litter Management Table 5: Community Activities Table 6: Weed Management
Table 1: Pine tree removal
Action Council SBL/C Council to ensure that the general public is excluded from areas during tree felling works . Council will conduct a risk assessment and remove identified hazards before opening the relevant area . Council, SBL/C, contractors and stakeholders will cease work immediately if any midden material or artefacts are found during works and notify . . Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania SBL/C will provide Council with a copy of the Blue Lagoon Aboriginal Heritage Survey report . SBL/C will consult the ‘timelines and actions’ section contained in this document to plan pine tree removal works . Council, SBL/C., stakeholders and contractors will regularly meet and consult before, during and after scheduled pine tree removal operations . . Council will ensure that contractors cease work immediately if any midden material or artefacts are found during works and notify Aboriginal Heritage . Tasmania All pine logs are to be retained onsite and placed in consultation with Council and SBL/C .
Table 2: Pine Tree Removal Timeline
Action Timing Council SBL/C Completed
Identification of the area of pine tree removal, Pre possible access works, revegetation works funding . . required or any other issues is to be done in bid consultation with stakeholders Pine removal funding for sort As funded . .
Aboriginal Heritage survey undertaken if When necessary and permit gained required .
Area to be treated is identified and assessed Prior to with consultation between Council, SBL/C and works . . Contractor, with possible commencement dates agreed to Area to be treated is assessed against access, Prior to dryness of ground, birds nesting in the identified works . . trees, location of native flora including threatened species
Aurora/ Transend consulted if power lines are Prior to affected by works works .
Council, SBL/C and Contractor to meet on site Day of on day works commence to resolve any last works . . minute issues General Public excluded from work site Duration of works . Site assessed for safety before opening to public Post works . Revegetation work as required Autumn . . Monitoring and maintenance activities Ongoing . . Table 3: Flora and Fauna Management
Action Council SBL/C Council and SBL/C will investigate funding to assist interested groups to hold field days, with appropriate experts, to identify threatened fauna and . . flora or vegetation communities within the reserve Council to create a data base to record all identified plants, animals and plant communities to be used by Council to avoid damage to those . communities during on ground works Council and SBL/C to include any identified threatened plants, plant communities or animals in the ‘Natural Values Atlas’ at . . www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au Council to time mowing and slashing to encourage the development of native grasses, sedges and reeds over introduced grasses etc .
Table 4: Access and Dog Management
Action Council SBL/C Council to work with SBL/C to identify areas where fencing and gated points are required to exclude uncontrolled access . . Council to work with SBL/C to consult on the standard of tracks required and their location keeping any impact to a minimum . . Council will limit the use of track ‘hardening’ materials to identified areas within the reserve, and be ‘clean’ of contaminants such as weed seed . and soil pathogens Council will work with SBL/C to carry out a trail audit throughout the reserve . . Council will work with SBL/C to rehabilitate trails no longer required following the trail audit . . Council to investigate potential funding opportunities to provide a rest seat/s at identified point/s . Council to regularly assess walkways and trails for risks and hazards as part of its normal asset management . Council to investigate potential funding opportunities for signage to inform people of prohibited activities e.g. no motorbikes, horses . Council to investigate potential funding opportunities for walkway signage . Council will work with the community including local schools to design interpretive signage to inform and educate the wider community about . the environmental and recreational values of the reserve Council will investigate nominating Blue Lagoon as a ‘dogs permitted on lead only’ area and for the erection of appropriate signage . Council will investigate the potential to include a leaflet with dog registration on how owners can enjoy their pet and help protect their . environment Sorell Council to ensure compliance of Dog Management regulations in the reserve .
Table 5: Water Quality and Litter Management
Action Council SBL/C Council and stakeholders to investigate potential funding opportunities to investigate appropriate solutions to address the impacts of high rainfall . events including future mitigation works for the sustainable management of the wetland Council to assist builders and developers to use ‘Soil and Water Management on Building and Construction Sites’ produced by the . Australian and State Government, NRM south, Derwent Estuary Program and Local Government or any other management resources that Council considers appropriate Council to regularly monitor and clean the storm water inflow pipes of sediment and litter adjacent to the lagoon as part of its maintenance . regime Council to work with SBL/C to organise a ‘clean up Australia day’ event, in March each year, to pick up litter from Blue Lagoon . . Council to investigate a method to regularly monitor water entering and within the lagoon for pathogens and nutrients to assist in the preparation . of an appropriate action plan SBL/C and community to regularly undertake ‘community water quality testing’ activities and give information of results to Council . SBL/C and interested people could identify vertebrate and invertebrate fauna as part of water quality monitoring activities and add the . information to the council data base Council to work with SBL/C to encourage environmental awareness activities such as the connectivity of households to wetlands . .
Table 6: Community Activities
Action Council SBL/C Council to work with SBL/C to coordinate volunteer activities such as ‘Weed Buster Week’ . SBL/C will nominate a ‘safety officer’ for each SBL/C organised working bee . Council to investigate the suitability of the reserve as a possible Land for Wildlife site . Council to work with SBL/C to compile a list of interested local participants and invite them to working bees . . Council will investigate potential funding opportunities to purchase and stock a Landcare trailer to be made available for use by community . groups Council will continue to support volunteer groups providing assistance and equipment when possible . Council will work with SBL/C to identify and encourage other volunteer groups and organisations such as university research students to . . participate in working bees, field days and research etc Council to work with SBL/C in encouraging school groups to participate in on ground works including weed removal and revegetation . . Council to work with SBL/C to encourage the Sorell School Landcare group to undertake water quality monitoring activities using SBL/Cs’ . equipment Council to work with SBL/C and other government agencies to maintain vegetation corridors along the Coastal Reserve to link reserve to the . . vegetated areas along Red Ochre Beach and Tiger Head Council to work with SBL/C to monitor any negative impacts of climate change on the reserve and consult with each other and stakeholders if . . any remedial works are required Table 7: Weed Management
Action Council SBL/C Volunteers are not permitted to use any kind of spray application of herbicides within the reserve . . Volunteers are not permit to use chainsaws within the reserve . . Council to work with SBL/C to ensure that volunteers are trained in the safe use of herbicides, such as ‘cut and paste’ techniques . . Prior to any weed works SBL/C and other volunteers undertaking the works are to consult the information contained in the Weed Lifecycle and . Control Option section of this document Council, SBL/C and volunteers should control WONS and Declared weeds . . Council to work with SBL/C to promote community ‘weed buster’ events . . Council to investigate providing information to neighbouring landowners about the negative environmental impacts of dumping garden waste in . the reserve
17.0. Weed Lifecycle and Control Options (Warning: Use herbicides with great care)
Always follow the label instructions Always read MSDS Keep both documents with chemical used Before you start, get advice from relevant government agencies, or the manufacturer Some ‘off-label’ herbicide uses are permitted, and are recommended in this plan. Contact the Department of Primary Industry Parks Water and Environment or the Registrar of Pesticides for more information Note that with further research and improved herbicides, the most appropriate control methods may change over time. It is critical that this information is revised and updated periodically to ensure the most effective control method for a given situation is being used Weed lifecycle and control options can be photocopied, stapled together, and used by volunteers in the field at working bees
17.1 Mirror Bush Coprosma repens
Status: Environmental Weed
Lifecycle Notes: Lifecycle Perennial, life span 10 + years Method of Reproduction: . Seed . Fleshy berries (spread by birds) . vegetative rooting of lower branches Flowering Spring to Summer Seed Set Late Summer to Autumn Seed Production and viability Unknown Seed Survival in Soil Unknown Other Seedlings germinate and survive better in protected areas i.e. under other shrubs
Control Options: Hand removal: Plants up to 300 mm tall are easily removed especially when soil is moist. Cut and Paste: Use undiluted Glyphosate 360 ml/l. Dab the stump within 30 seconds of cutting
Ideal Control Times: All year round
17.2 Radiata pine (Seedlings to 3 metres) Pinus radiata
Status: Environmental Weed
Lifecycle Notes: Lifecycle Perennial, life span 80 – 100 years Method of Reproduction . Seed Flowering Late Winter – early Spring Seed Set Late Summer (18 months after flowering) First Cones Produced Eighth year Seed Production and Viability Large quantity of seed produced, 80% viability Seed Survival in Soil Up to 10 years
Control Options: Hand pulling: Plants less than 300 mm tall are easily removed especially when soil is moist. Hand removal: Sawing Plants to 3m. Cut off below first branch, within 5 cm of soil surface
Ideal Control Times: Control effective for most of the year
17.3 Bone seed Chrysanthemoides monilifera
Status: Weed of National Significance WONS
Lifecycle Notes: Lifecycle Perennial, 10 to 20 years Method of Reproduction . Seed spread by birds and animals that eat the fruit . Humans through weed removal activities and soil waste. Flowering Late Winter to Spring Seed Set November to December First Seed Produced Second year, (occasionally first year) Seed Production and Viability Up to 50,000 in one season, 60% viability, down to 25% after 3 years. Seed Survival in Soil 10 to 15 years Other Seedlings can look like Banksia seedlings. Adult plants can be confused with Boobialla (Myoporum sp). Control Options: Hand Removal: Seedlings less than 900mm tall are easily removed especially when soil is moist. Brush-cutting is NOT recommended. Cut and Paste: Use of undiluted Glyphosate 360 ml/l herbicide. Cut the stump and dab within 30 seconds Foliar Spray: NOT recommended for volunteers
Ideal Control Times: Cut and dab any time except mid-winter.
17.4 Tree lucerne Chamaecytisus palmensis
Status: Environmental Weed
Lifecycle Notes: Lifecycle Small, evergreen tree to 5m tall, to 10 years. Method of Reproduction . Seed spread by water . humans through weed removal activities and soil waste . Mass germination following fire and soil disturbance. Flowering Late Spring to Summer Seed Set Autumn to late Winter First Seed Produced Second year Seed Production and Viability Large quantities of seed; enhanced germination after fire or soil disturbance. Seed Survival in Soil Persistent seed bank reported. Other Toxic seed. Widely planted in agriculture as a fodder crop.
Control Options: Hand Removal: Seedlings less than 900mm tall are easily removed especially when soil is moist. Brush-cutting NOT recommended. Plants can resprout from cut stumps. Cut and Paste: Small plants to 3m tall use undiluted Glyphosate 360 ml/l herbicide. Cut the stump and dab within 30 seconds. Foliar Spray: NOT recommended for volunteers.
Ideal Control Times: Cut and dab any time.
Map 2: Access
Map 3: Pine Tree Removal Site Map
Appendix 1
Table 1: Flora Species
Common name Scientific name Date Comment e.g. pH, Salinity, Coastal wattle Acacia longifolia sub 2009 Affected by high water sophorae Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon 2009 Black Wattle Acacia mearnsii 2009 Replacement planting required Silver Wattle Acacia dealbata 2009 Silver Banksia Banksia marginata 2009 Yellow Spiky Bitter Pea Daviesia 2009 Replacement planting required Short Stem Flax- lily Dianella brevicaulis 2009 Hopbush Dodonaea viscosa 2009 Pale Rush Juncus pallidus 2009 Sagg Lomandra longifolia 2009 Coast Tussock Grass Poa poiformis 2009 Native Geranium Pelargonium australe 2009
Table 2: Fauna Species List
Common name Scientific name Date Comment e.g. pH, Salinity, Eastern Banjo Frog Limnodynastes dumerili 2009 Calling August September Spotted Marsh Frog Limnodynastes tasmaniensis 2009 Calling August September
Table 3: Avian Species List
Common name Scientific name Date Comment e.g. pH, Salinity, Pacific black duck Anas superciliosa 2009 Nesting, winter 2009
Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos 2009 Frequent visitor winter 2009
White Faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae 2009 Nesting late August in pine trees
Yellow-tailed Black- Calyptorhynchus funereus 2009 Frequent visitor, feeds on pine cockatoo cones
Table 4: Invertebrate Species List (yet to be surveyed)
Common name Scientific name Date Comment e.g. pH, Salinity,