Approved Recovery Plan
Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) Recovery Plan
January 2005
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) © Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), 2005. This work is copyright, however material presented in this plan may be copied for personal use or published for educational purposes, providing that any extracts are fully acknowledged. Apart from this and any other use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced without prior written permission from DEC.
The NPWS is part of the Department of Environment and Conservation
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) 43 Bridge Street (PO Box 1967) Hurstville NSW 2220 Tel: 02 95856444 www.npws.nsw.gov.au
Requests for information or comments regarding the recovery program for Zieria granulata should be directed to:
The Director General, Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) C/- Zieria granulata Recovery Plan Coordinator Conservation Programs and Planning, Metropolitan Branch Environment Protection and Regulation Division Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) PO Box 1967 Hurstville NSW 2220 Ph: (02) 9585 6678 Fax: (02) 9585 6442
Cover illustration: Zieria granulata in Killalea State Park Photographer: M. Bremner
This plan should be cited as following: Department of Environment and Conservation (2005) Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) Recovery Plan. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurstville NSW.
ISBN 1 7412 2143 9 Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) Recovery Plan
Executive Summary
This document constitutes the formal Commonwealth and New South Wales State Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria), and as such considers the conservation requirements of the species across its known range. It identifies the future actions to be taken to ensure the long-term viability of Z. granulata in nature and the parties who will carry out these actions.
Zieria granulata is listed as endangered on the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and as endangered on Schedule 1 of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. It is a tall shrub or small tree (family Rutaceae) that is endemic to the Illawarra region of NSW where it is recorded from 26 populations (97 highly fragmented sites) within a range of approximately 22 kilometres. The total population size of the species is estimated to be approximately 8000 mature individuals.
Z. granulata typically occupies dry ridge tops and rocky outcrops on shallow volcanic soils, although it has been recorded in a range of habitats. Vegetation types typically associated with the species include subtropical rainforest, Melaleuca armillaris (Bracelet Honey-myrtle) scrub to tall shrubland, and Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) open forest. The species is less frequently recorded in a number of other vegetation types.
Extensive clearing of the Illawarra lowlands since European settlement has destroyed much of the natural habitat of Z. granulata and much of the remaining habitat is highly fragmented. The majority of Z. granulata sites are small, isolated and occupy freehold land that may be subject to competing landuses. The main threat to the species is the further loss of habitat as a consequence of agricultural clearing, quarrying, residential development and road construction. Agricultural activities (including grazing and trampling by livestock, vegetation slashing, and herbicide spraying), roadside and dry stone wall maintenance activities, weed invasion and rubbish dumping also threaten Z. granulata at a number of sites.
The overall objective of this recovery plan is to provide for the continued and long-term survival of Zieria granulata in the wild by promoting the in-situ conservation of the species across its natural range. The specific recovery objectives are: • To conserve Z. granulata using land-use and conservation planning mechanisms; • To identify and manage the threats operating at sites that contain the species; • To provide the community with information that assists in conserving the species; • To raise awareness of the species and involve the community in the recovery program; • To promote research that will assist with the management of the species; and • To coordinate an ex-situ conservation program to safeguard genetic material from extinction.
It is intended that this recovery plan will be implemented over a five year period. The total cost to implement the plan is $83,150, although this does not include site management costs or the costs associated with the preparation and implementation of management plans for roadside sites and sites that are located on community land, as these costs are yet to be determined.
Lisa Corbyn Bob Debus MP Director General Minister for the Environment
Acknowledgments
The following members of the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery Team and their respective agencies/organisations are thanked for their assistance with the preparation of this recovery plan and with the coordination/implementation of recovery actions to date: • Ken Murray and Sandie Jones (Shoalhaven City Council) • Paul Formosa (Wollongong City Council) • Alison Scobie and Sharon Cooper (Shellharbour City Council) • Peter Stuckey and Amanda Schipp (Kiama Municipal Council) • Graeme Bradburn (Australian Native Orchid Society, Illawarra Branch) • Chris Lacey and Tim Wilkinson (Department of Infrastructure Planning and Natural Resources) • John Briggs (Southern Threatened Species Unit, DEC) • Les Mitchell (Nowra Area, Parks & Wildlife Division, DEC) • Melinda Norton and Ian Jackett (Highlands Area, Parks & Wildlife Division, DEC) • Carl Glaister and Anders Bofeldt (Wollongong Botanic Gardens) • Mark Robinson (Ecological Consultant) • Professor Robert Whelan (University of Wollongong) • Richard Johnstone (Mount Annan Botanic Gardens, Botanic Gardens Trust, DEC)
The following people are also thanked for their assistance in the recovery effort for Z. granulata: • Denise Black and Kate Harris for assisting with survey efforts; • Lisa Hart and David Murphy (Shellharbour City Council), and Sharyn Langford and Michael Day (Kiama Municipal Council) for providing spatial data; • Garry Daley and Denise Black for providing additional location information; • Tim Francis, Tullimbah Landcare and the Friends of Bass Point Reserve for implementing on-ground threat abatement works at Z. granulata sites; and • Environment Australia Natural Heritage Trust Program for contributing funds towards the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery Program. Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Table of Contents 1 Introduction ...... 1
2 Legal Status...... 1 2.1 Recovery plan preparation...... 1 2.2 Recovery plan implementation...... 1 2.3 Relationship to other Legislation...... 1 2.4 Key threatening processes ...... 2 2.5 Critical habitat ...... 2 2.6 Environmental assessment...... 2 3 Conservation Status ...... 3
4 Taxonomy and Description...... 3 4.1 Taxonomy...... 3 4.2 Description ...... 3 5 Distribution and Habitat...... 4 5.1 Definitions...... 4 5.2 Distribution...... 4 5.3 Land Tenure and Zoning ...... 4 5.4 Habitat ...... 7 6 Biology and Ecology ...... 10 6.1 Habit and longevity ...... 10 6.2 Reproductive biology ...... 10 6.3 Population size and structure...... 11 6.4 Response to disturbance ...... 11 6.5 Fire ecology...... 12 7 Previous Recovery Actions ...... 12 7.1 Profile and environmental impact assessment guidelines...... 12 7.2 Establishment of a recovery team...... 12 7.3 Community awareness initiatives...... 13 7.4 In situ protection...... 13 8 Management Issues ...... 13 8.1 Introduction ...... 13 8.2 Limits to current knowledge...... 13 8.3 Threatening processes ...... 13 8.4 Prioritising the recovery effort ...... 16 8.5 Community awareness of the species...... 17 8.6 Translocation and ex-situ conservation ...... 17 8.7 Ability to recover...... 17 9 Proposed Recovery Objectives, Actions and Performance Criteria...... 18
10 Implementation...... 22
11 Social and Economic Consequences...... 22 11.1 Social consequences ...... 22 11.2 Economic consequences...... 22 12 Roles/Interests of Indigenous People ...... 23
13 Biodiversity Benefits...... 23
14 Preparation Details...... 23
i Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
15 Review Date...... 23
16 References...... 23
List of Tables Table 1: Z. granulata distribution by land manager ...... 4 Table 2: Z. granulata distribution by zoning...... 4 Table 3: Sites located within council managed reserves ...... 6 Table 4: Sites located on road verges managed by Kiama Council...... 6 Table 5: Distribution by soil landscape unit...... 7 Table 7: Z. granulata distribution by altitude class...... 7 Table 6: Z. granulata distribution by substrate ...... 7 Table 7: Average temperatures (°C) for Moss Vale and Wollongong climatic stations...... 8 Table 9: Distribution of Z. granulata by vegetation type...... 9 Table 10: Z. granulata sites by size class...... 11 Table 11: Z. granulata populations ...... 12 Table 12: Fire interval guidelines for Z. granulata ...... 16 Table 13: Estimated costs, funding source and responsible parties for implementing the Recovery Plan...... 25
List of Figures Map 1: Species distribution map ...... 5
Appendices Appendix 1: Soil landscape units associated with Zieria granulata Appendix 2: Details of Zieria granulata sites Appendix 3: Species profile and environmental impact assessment guidelines Appendix 4: Threat assessment for Zieria granulata sites Appendix 5: Interim assessment of relative conservation significance for Zieria granulata sites Appendix 6: Site management statement proforma for Zieria granulata Appendix 7: Photographs Appendix 8: Summary of advice from the NSW Scientific Committee
ii Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
the TSC Act schedules. Similarly, the EPBC Act 1 Introduction requires the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment to ensure the preparation of a recovery Zieria granulata is a tall shrub belonging to the plan for nationally listed species and communities or Rutaceae family. The species is endemic to the adopt plans prepared by others including those Illawarra region of NSW where it occupies the developed by State agencies. Both Acts include coastal lowlands and escarpment slopes between specific requirements for the matters to be addressed Oak Flats and Toolijooa. Z. granulata has been by recovery plans and the administrative process for recorded from 26 populations (or 97 highly preparing recovery plans. fragmented sites) within its natural range of 22 kilometres, with the vast majority of sites located on This recovery plan has been prepared to satisfy both freehold land. the requirements of the TSC Act and the EPBC Act and therefore will be the only recovery plan The natural habitat of Z. granulata has been prepared for the species. It is the intention of the extensively cleared since European settlement and Director-General of DEC to forward the final much of its remaining habitat is fragmented and version of this recovery plan to the Commonwealth highly degraded. A large number of threatening Minister of the Environment for adoption. processes are operating at Z. granulata sites. 2.2 Recovery plan implementation This document constitutes the formal NSW and National Recovery Plan for Z. granulata and as such The TSC Act requires that a public authority must considers the requirements of the species across its take any appropriate measures available to known range. It describes the current understanding implement actions included in a recovery plan for of the species, documents management actions which they have agreed to be responsible. Public undertaken to date and details the recovery program authorities identified as responsible for the for the species over the next five years, and the implementation of recovery plan actions are parties responsible for implementing it. required by the TSC Act to report on measures taken to implement those actions. In addition, the Act 2 Legal Status specifies that public authorities must not make decisions that are inconsistent with the provisions of Zieria granulata is listed as an endangered species the plan. on Schedule 1 of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and as an The public authorities relevant to this plan are the endangered species under the Commonwealth DEC, the Department of Infrastructure Planning and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Natural Resources (DIPNR), the Department of Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Lands (DOL), the Department of Education and Training (DET), the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Among the consequences of a species being listed Kiama Municipal Council and Shellharbour City on the schedules of the TSC Act are the following: Council. Consequently, the actions outlined for each of these public authorities must be implemented as • a recovery plan must be prepared; described in the plan. • consideration must be given to the species when assessing the impacts of developments and The EPBC Act specifies that a Commonwealth activities, with the aim of minimising adverse agency must not take any action that contravenes a impacts; and recovery plan. • other actions that are likely to result in the harming or picking of that species or damage to 2.3 Relationship to other Legislation its habitat must be licensed. The lands on which Z. granulata occurs include 2.1 Recovery plan preparation those that are owned or managed by the DEC, DOL, RTA, Kiama Municipal Council, Shellharbour City The TSC Act provides a legislative framework to Council, and private landholders. protect and encourage the recovery of threatened species, endangered populations and endangered Relevant NSW and Commonwealth legislation ecological communities in NSW. includes:
Under this legislation the Director-General of the • Environmental Planning and Assessment Act Department of the Environment and Conservation 1979; (DEC) has a responsibility to prepare recovery plans • Local Government Act 1993; for all species, populations and ecological • Native Vegetation Act 2003; communities listed as endangered or vulnerable on • National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974;
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 1 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
• Rural Fires Act 1997; survival of the species or ecological community. It • Rural Fires and Environmental Assessment is an offence under the EPBC Act for a person to Legislation Amendment Act 2002; knowingly take an action that will significantly • Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995; damage critical habitat (unless the EPBC Act • Threatened Species Conservation Amendment specifically exempts the action). This offence only Act 2002; and applies to Commonwealth areas. However an action • Commonwealth Environment Protection and which is likely to have a significant impact on a Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. listed species is still subject to referral and approval under the EPBC Act. 2.4 Key threatening processes To date, critical habitat has not been declared for Z. A key threatening process (KTP) is a process listed granulata under the TSC Act or the EPBC Act. under the TSC Act that threatens, or has the However, this recovery plan identifies the habitat capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary features and locations (Sections 5 & 6; Appendices development of species, populations, or endangered 1 & 2) that would contain habitat that is critical to ecological communities. the survival of the species, as required by the EPBC Act. ‘Clearing of native vegetation’ has been observed to affect Z. granulata. The Final Determination for this It is not currently considered a high priority to KTP defines clearing as ‘the destruction of a nominate critical habitat for Z. granulata, as no sufficient proportion of one or more strata (layers) demonstrable conservation outcome would within a stand or stands of native vegetation so as to accompany its identification and declaration. Action result in the loss, or long term modification, of the 1.5 in this recovery plan provides a mechanism for structure, composition and ecological function of a the recovery team to reconsider the need for a stand or stands’ (NSW Scientific Committee 2001). critical habitat nomination during the third year of implementation of the plan. Other KTPs that may affect Z. granulata include: • High frequency fire resulting in the disruption 2.6 Environmental assessment of life cycle process in plants and animals and 2.6.1 New South Wales loss of vegetation structure and composition; • Invasion of native plant communities by bitou The New South Wales EP&A Act requires that bush and boneseed; consent and determining authorities, and the Director General of DEC, as a concurrence • Invasion of native plant communities by exotic authority, consider relevant recovery plans when perennial grasses; and exercising a decision-making function under Parts 4 • Anthropogenic climate change. and 5 of the EP&A Act. Decision-makers must consider known and potential habitat, biological and In addition to these key threatening processes, a ecological factors and the regional significance of number of other threats to the survival of Z. individual populations. granulata exist (see Section 8.3). The following public authorities have a decision 2.5 Critical habitat making function in relation to Z. granulata: The TSC Act makes provision for the identification • DIPNR as a consent authority, in the making of and declaration of critical habitat. Under the TSC Environmental Planning Instruments under the Act, critical habitat may be identified for any EP&A Act and in relation to private land that is endangered species, population or ecological subject to the provisions of the Native community occurring on NSW lands. Vegetation Act; • DEC as a land manager, licensing authority and Once declared, it becomes an offence to damage in a concurrence role under the EP&A Act; critical habitat (unless the action is exempted under • RTA as a land manager and determining the provisions of the TSC Act) and a Species Impact authority; Statement is mandatory for all developments and activities proposed within declared critical habitat. • The Department of Lands as a land manager; • Kiama Municipal Council and Shellharbour Under the EPBC Act, critical habitat may be City Council as land managers, consent and registered for any nationally listed threatened determining authorities, and in the making of species or ecological community. When adopting a Environmental Planning Instruments under the recovery plan, the Commonwealth Minister for the EP&A Act; Environment must consider whether to list habitat • The Southern Rivers Catchment Management identified in the recovery plan as being critical to the Authority, in relation to land that is subject to the provisions of Native Vegetation Act; and
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• The Rural Fire Service as a determining The Commonwealth Minister for the Environment authority and when issuing Bush Fire Hazard can also delegate the role of assessment and Reduction Certificates. approval to other Commonwealth Ministers under a Ministerial Declaration and to the States and Additional public authorities may have Territories under bilateral agreements. The responsibilities if the species is located in other development of a bilateral agreement between NSW areas in the future. and the Commonwealth is not complete at the date of this publication, but when in place may avoid the Any activity not requiring a consent or approval need for duplication of environmental assessment. under the EP&A Act, and which is likely to affect Z. granulata, requires a Section 91 licence from the 3 Conservation Status Director General of DEC under the provisions of the TSC Act. Such a licence can be issued with or A review of the conservation status of Z. granulata without conditions, or can be refused. If a significant was undertaken during the preparation of this effect on Z. granulata is unlikely, the Director recovery plan using the Endangered Flora Network General can issue the applicant with a Section 95(2) (EFN) modified IUCN criteria (Keith et al. 1997). certificate, which acts as a defence to prosecution This review concluded that Z. granulata is under sections 118A-D of the National Parks and appropriately listed as endangered as a consequence Wildlife Act 1974. of the following factors: • Restricted extent of occurrence; A scientific licence issued under Section 132 (c) of • Severely fragmented distribution; and the NP&W Act is required to ‘pick’ Z. granulata or • Continuing declines are predicted in habitat damage its habitat for scientific, educational or extent and quality, area of occupancy, and the conservation purposes. number of locations that contain the species. Routine agricultural activities are exempt from the provisions of the TSC Act. This means, for example, 4 Taxonomy and Description that where Z. granulata occurs on private rural land, in some circumstances it can legally be subject to 4.1 Taxonomy grazing by livestock under the provisions of the TSC Act. The genus Zieria belongs to the Rutaceae family and is predominantly located within eastern Australia. 2.6.2 Commonwealth The distribution of the genus extends from NE Queensland to Tasmania and west to Kangaroo The EPBC Act regulates actions that may result in a Island, with one species endemic to New Caledonia significant impact on nationally listed threatened (Armstrong 2002). The genus Zieria contains 42 species and ecological communities. It is an offence species and 10 infraspecific taxa (Armstrong 2002) to undertake any such actions in areas under State or Territory jurisdiction, as well as on Commonwealth- owned areas, without obtaining prior approval from 4.2 Description the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment. Z. granulata is a tall bushy shrub or small tree that can grow to six metres in ideal conditions. The As Z. granulata is listed nationally under the EPBC entire plant is densely covered with glandular Act, any person proposing to undertake actions tubercles (small wart-like outgrowths). Very young likely to have a significant impact on this species branches are pubescent (ie they have fine short should refer the action to the Commonwealth hairs) while older branches are virtually hairless. Minister for the Environment for consideration. The Leaves are palmately trifoliate (three-fingered), Minister will then decide whether the action requires opposite and petiolate. The central leaflet is linear, EPBC Act approval. 19.5 to 42.5 mm long, 0.5 to 1.5 mm broad with an obtuse apex. Leaf margins are revolute (downward The Commonwealth Department of Environment curved) with a dull green upper surface and whitish and Heritage has prepared administrative guidelines lower surface. The inflorescence is axillary, shorter (www.deh.gov.au/epbc) to assist proponents in than the leaves and 50 to 180 flowered. Flowers are determining whether their action is likely to have a white, four petalled, and 3.5 to 4.5 mm in diameter. significant impact. In cases where the action does The fruit is a dry, light brown, glabrous (hairless) not require EPBC Act approval, but will result in the four-chambered capsule. Seeds are dark reddish- death or injury to Z. granulata in a Commonwealth brown with a shiny black base, c. 2 mm long, c. 1.4 area, a permit issued by the Commonwealth Minister mm broad, and have an elaiosome (ant attracting for the Environment under the EPBC Act will be appendage) (Armstrong 2002; M. Robinson, pers. required. comm.).
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5 Distribution and Habitat Latite and it appears that Z. granulata propagules were introduced to the site via this material (Mills & Jakeman 1993; Robinson 1999). 5.1 Definitions 5.1.1 Populations 5.3 Land Tenure and Zoning Populations are defined by the International Union Tables 1 and 2 show the distribution of Z. granulata for the Conservation of Nature and Natural sites and plants by land manager and zoning Resources (IUCN 1994) as ‘geographically or respectively. It is clear that the vast majority of Z. otherwise distinct groups between which there is granulata plants occur on freehold land that is zoned little [genetic] exchange, typically less than one for extractive industry or rural land-uses. migration per year’. A migration in the case of plant species is considered to be the movement of seed It is noteworthy that, while only nine per cent of propagules or pollen between populations. Where sites occur on land that is zoned for extractive there is inadequate information on a species with industry, 32 per cent of recorded plants are located which to assess the extent to which genetic material at such sites. Conversely, although 40 per cent of is exchanged (as is the case for Z. granulata), a sites occur on land that is zoned for environmental population can be defined using the ‘rule of thumb’ protection, just 18 per cent of recorded plants are given by Keith et al. (1997) as a ‘geographic located at these sites. discontinuity of more than 1 kilometre’. Table 1: Z. granulata distribution by land manager
Land manager Plants* Sites** Consequently, in this recovery plan, discrete groups Private landholder 8577 (73%) 66 (60%) of Z. granulata plants that are not separated from Kiama Council 1847 (16%) 25 (23%) other discrete groups by more than one kilometre are Crown 608 (5%) 2 (2%) considered to be a single population. Following this Shellharbour Council*** 300 (3%) 6 (6%) definition, 26 populations of Z. granulata can be Killalea State Park Trust 348 (3%) 4 (4%) identified (see Section 6.3.2). Roads & Traffic Authority 49 (<1%) 3 (3%) NPWS 10 (<0.1%) 2 (2%) * using the lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 77 5.1.2 Sites and sub-sites sites for which plant counts exist ** where a site extends over two tenures it has been recorded as two separate sites For this recovery plan, sites are defined as discrete *** includes two privately owned sites to be transferred to groups of Z. granulata plants that are separated from Council under approved developments other groups by an arbitrary distance of 200 metres Table 2: Z. granulata distribution by zoning or more. These sites have been labelled with the prefix Zg followed by a unique number (eg Zg1, Zoning Plants* Sites** Extractive industry 3701 (32%) 9 (9%) Zg2 etc). Sites may also be termed populations if the Rural land-uses 4138 (35%) 33 (32%) distance to the nearest site is greater than one Env. Protection 2078 (18%) 41 (40%) kilometre (see definition above). Residential 1286 (11%) 6 (6%) Open space*** 514 (4%) 9 (9%) Sites have been further divided into sub-sites (Zg1a, National Park 10 (<1%) 2 (2%) Zg1b etc) where discrete groups of plants at a site Arterial road 12 (0.1%) 1 (1%) * using the lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 77 are separated from other groups of plants at that site sites for which plant counts exist ** where a site extends by an arbitrary distance of 50 metres or more. over two zones it has been recorded as two separate sites *** includes two sites presently zoned residential that will be A total of 97 sites comprising 158 sub-sites have rezoned as open space under approved developments been recorded for Z. granulata. 5.3.1 Conservation reserves 5.2 Distribution Two sites have been recorded from the Minnamurra Rainforest section of Budderoo National Park. Ten Z. granulata is endemic to the Illawarra region of plants (comprising one mature plant, six immature NSW where it has been recorded from 26 plants and three seedlings) were located at Zg30 in fragmented populations (97 sites) between Oak Flats 2004, up from five plants (comprising one mature (Shellharbour LGA) and Toolijooa (Kiama LGA), a plant and four seedlings) when the site was range of approximately 22 km. Within this range, discovered in 1995 (M. Robinson pers. comm.). the species is typically located on the coastal plain although occasional sites occupy the slopes of the Illawarra escarpment.
A disjunct site is recorded from Kanahooka (Wollongong LGA), 8 km north of Oak Flats. This site occurs on fill material derived from Bumbo
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Map 1 #S Zieria granulata Dapto Species Distribution Map WOLLONGONG
Copyright NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service October 2001 This ma p is not gu ara ntee d t o be fre e from e rror or omiss ion The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and its employees disclaim liability for any act done on the information in the ma p an d a ny con seq ue nce s of such acts or om issi ons Shellharbour Albion Park #S N #S #S ÊÚ #S #S#S#S#S #S #S#S W E SHELLHARBOUR #S#S #S #S#S#S#S#S #S #S#S#S #S #S #S#S #S#S #S#S #S #S #S#S #S #S #S#S#S S #S#S#S#S#S #S#S #S #S#S #S #S 0123456Kilometres #S #S#S#S#S #S #S #S #S#S #S #S S #S#S #S #S#S #S #S Kiama Downs #S #S Jamberoo #S#S#S#S#S ÊÚ Presumed extinct #S#S#S #S #S S Old record #S #S #S#S#S#S #S #S Current record #S #S #S #S #S #S Local Govt Areas #S#S #S #S#S#S #S Roads #S#S #S#S #S#S #S #S #S Kiama Built Up Areas #S #S#S #S Major Rivers #S#S NPWS Estate #S #S #S#S#S #S State Forests KIAMA #S #S #S
Printed By #S Gerringong SHOALHAVEN #S#S#S#S Metropolitan Regon TSU #S#S 13 August 2004
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 5 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
The 1953 Atlas of NSW Wildlife record for the consent for approved developments in adjacent other site within the park (Zg29) does not describe areas. One site at Albion Park (Zg3) occupies the number of plants present. The spatial accuracy of operational council land that is zoned for residential this record is low (to 1 km) and it is possible that the development. The number of plants present at this record actually relates to the same site as Zg30. site has not been documented.
5.3.2 Crown land Kiama Municipal Council (KMC) Twelve sites, including three sites that are located in Four sites (Zg23 to Zg26) are located within Killalea crown reserves, have been recorded in reserves that State Park where Mills (1987) recorded a total of are managed by KMC (Table 3). A further eleven 348 Z. granulata plants. The Killalea State Park sites occur, at least partially, on road verges that are Trust coordinates the management of this park. managed by KMC (Table 4). A further 25 plants have been recorded from crown A site at Willow Creek (Zg60) occupies operational reserves that are managed by Shellharbour City council land that is zoned for residential Council (Bass Point Reserve) and Kiama Municipal development. KMC is considering entering into a Council (Saddleback Mountain and North Kiama Voluntary Conservation Agreement with the DEC to Park) (Table 3). protect this site which contains an estimated 1100 Z. granulata plants (M. Mulvaney, DEC, pers. comm.). Two sites in the Dunmore Hills area are located on crown land that contains a state significant latite 5.3.4 Freehold land resource. Mills & Jakeman (1993) describe one of these sites (Zg20), which is located north of the A total of sixty-six Z. granulata sites have been Dunmore Quarry, as being part of a population that recorded on freehold properties. These sites contains thousands of plants. The other site (Zg21) predominantly occupy land that is zoned for rural is located near the southern edge of the Dunmore land-uses or for environmental protection. Quarry and contained 108 plants when surveyed in 1992 (Robinson 2001). One freehold site at Toolijooa (Zg89), the southern most recorded location for the species, is partially 5.3.3 Council owned land protected under a property agreement negotiated between the landholder and DIPNR. One freehold Shellharbour City Council site at Foxground (Zg84) is protected under a Three sites have been recorded within reserves that Voluntary Conservation Agreement with the DEC. are managed by Shellharbour City Council (Table 3). A further two sites (Zg1 at Oak Flats and Zg22 at Shellcove) occupy freehold lands that will become council managed reserves under the conditions of Table 3: Sites located within council managed reserves
Location Site Code Plants LGA Source Bass Point Reserve, Shellharbour Zg27, Zg28 5 Shellharbour M. Bremner pers. comm. Elisabeth Brownlee Reserve, Albion Zg2 3 Shellharbour M. Bremner pers. comm. Park Stoney Range Reserve, Oak Flats* Zg1 92 Shellharbour Robinson 1999 Unnamed reserve at Shellcove* Zg22 >200 Shellharbour M. Bremner pers. comm. Kiama Aquatic Centre, Kiama Zg58 170 Kiama Mills & Jakeman 1993 Turpentine Reserve, Kiama Downs Zg51 12 Kiama Robinson 1999 Stead Reserve, Kiama Zg59 30 Kiama Mills & Jakeman 1993 Minnamurra Headland, Minnamurra Zg48 2 Kiama D. Black pers. comm. Bonaira Native Gardens, Kiama Zg68** - Kiama NSW Wildlife Atlas North Kiama Park, Bombo Zg94 7 Kiama Glaister pers. comm Jerrara Dam, Jerrara Zg71, Zg72, Zg74, Zg75 269 Kiama Mills & Jakeman 1993 Saddleback Mountain Zg78, Zg79 13 Kiama Mills & Jakeman 1993 * privately owned sites to become Council reserves under approved developments ** possibly planted, source of propagative material unknown Table 4: Sites located on road verges managed by Kiama Council
Location Site Code Plants Source Jamberoo Road Zg31, Zg32 17 Mills & Jakeman (1993) Wallaby Hill Road Zg45, Zg46, Zg47 450* Mills & Jakeman (1993) Saddleback Mountain Road Zg81 5 Mills & Jakeman (1993) Old Saddleback Road Zg66 40 Mills & Jakeman (1993) Saddleback Road Zg67 1 Mills & Jakeman (1993) Mount Brandon Road Zg76, Zg90 293* Mills & Jakeman (1993); M. Bremner pers. comm. Long Brush Road Zg64 15 Mills & Jakeman (1993) *includes plants observed in adjacent paddocks
Page 6 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Twenty sites in the Dunmore Hills area occupy Appendix 1 contains descriptions of the soil freehold land that is owned by mining interests. landscape units that have been recorded in These sites are zoned for extractive industry, rural association with Z. granulata. land-uses or for environmental protection. Table 5: Distribution by soil landscape unit A further five sites are located on freehold land that Soil Landscape Unit* Plants** Sub-sites is zoned for residential development. Three of these Bombo 8421 (73%) 118 (74%) Wattamolla Road 2043 (17%) 6 (4%) sites (Zg56, Zg57 and Zg69) occur in Kiama LGA. Shellharbour 630 (5%) 9 (6%) The other two sites (Zg1 and Zg22) occur in Kiama 472 (4%) 8 (5%) Shellharbour LGA and are to become council Cambewarra 132 (1%) 7 (4%) reserves under the consent conditions of approved Jamberoo 29 (<1%) 5 (3%) developments in adjacent areas. Fountaindale 7 (<1%) 1 (1%) Albion Park 3 (<1%) 2 (1%) Mangrove Creek*** 2 (<1%) 1 (1%) 5.3.5 RTA managed land Shoalhaven*** Not recorded 1 (1%) Two sites at Tabbagong Forest (Zg51 and Zg52) *after Hazelton 1992 ** using lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 111 sub-sites for which plant counts exist partially occur on RTA managed land. Thirty-five of *** highly unlikely occurrence the 114 Z. granulata plants present at these sites will be removed during construction of the North Kiama 5.4.3 Geology By-pass (Robinson 1999). A site (Zg50) containing Z. granulata has been recorded on 12 geological two plants has also been recorded from RTA units although Bumbo Latite (a member of the managed land near the Minnamurra Bends, Kiama Permian Gerringong Volcanics) is clearly the Downs (Robinson 1999). geological unit that is most closely associated with the species. Table 6 shows the distribution of Z. 5.4 Habitat granulata sub-sites and plants by substrate. 5.4.1 Landform 5.4.4 Altitude The preferred landform of Z. granulata is dry ridge tops and rocky outcrops with shallow, volcanic Table 7 shows the distribution of Z. granulata sub- soils. The species is less frequently found on the sites and plants by altitude class. The altitudinal moist slopes of the Illawarra escarpment and in low- range of the species is 5 to 510 m, although the vast lying areas on Quaternary sediments. majority of sub-sites (89%) and plants (96%) occur below 150 m. 5.4.2 Soil landscape Table 7: Z. granulata distribution by altitude class
Table 5 shows the distribution of Z. granulata sub- Altitude (m) Plants* Sub-sites sites and plants by soil landscape unit. The species 0-50 3057 (26%) 44 (28%) has been recorded on 10 soil landscape units 51-100 1762 (15%) 57 (36%) although the vast majority of sub-sites and plants 101-150 6425 (55%) 39 (25%) occur within the Bombo soil landscape unit. It 151-200 334 (3%) 6 (4%) 201-250 - - should be noted however that the occurrence of sites 251-300 66 (<1%) 3 (2%) within the Mangrove Creek and Shoalhaven soil 301-350 69 (<1%) 5 (3%) landscape units is considered to be highly unlikely. 351-400 2 (<1%) 1 (<1%) It is probable that these sites (Zg49 and Zg83) 401-450 - - actually lie within the adjacent Bombo and 451-500 20 (<1%) 3 (2%) Wattamolla Road units respectively. 501-550 4 (<1%) 1 (<1%) * using lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 111 sub-sites for which plant counts exist
Table 6: Z. granulata distribution by substrate
Geological Unit Rock Class Geological Period Plants* Sub-sites Bumbo Latite Igneous Permian 10777 (93%) 109 (68%) Budgong Sandstone Sedimentary Permian 401 (3%) 20 (12%) Quaternary Talus Sedimentary Quaternary 357 (3%) 17 (8%) Saddleback Latite Igneous Permian 64 (<1%) 1 (1%) Cambewarra Latite Igneous Permian 56 (<1%) 1 (1%) Blowhole Latite Igneous Permian 27 (<1%) 2 (1%) Quaternary Alluvium Sedimentary Quaternary 16 (<1%) 4 (3%) Irwins Creek Breccia Igneous Tertiary 10 (<1%) 1 (1%) Illawarra Coal Measures Sedimentary Permian 13 (<1%) 4 (3%) Quaternary Sand Sedimentary Quaternary 5 (<1%) 2 (1%) Bong Bong Basalt Igneous Tertiary 9 (<1%) 1 (1%) Saddleback Agglomerate Igneous Tertiary 4 (<1%) 1 (1%) * using lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 111 sub-sites for which plant counts exist
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 7 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Table 7: Average temperatures (°C) for Moss Vale and Wollongong climatic stations*
Station Altitude Distance Average Average Average Average inland January July annual annual Maximum Minimum maximum minimum Moss Vale 672 m 45 km 21.6 1.2 19.4 6.8 Wollongong 12 m 0.5 km 25.9 7.8 21.6 12.6 *Source: Mills & Jakeman 1995 5.4.5 Climate Rainforest, and Illawarra Lowlands Grassy Woodland respectively. The Illawarra area has a generally mild climate with extremes in temperature being moderated by coastal Melaleuca armillaris scrub to tall shrubland effects (Mills & Jakeman 1995). Average minimum The greatest number of Z. granulata plants are and maximum temperatures are closely related to recorded within the endangered ecological altitude and proximity to the coast (Table 7). community, Melaleuca armillaris Tall Shrubland Rainfall is very high compared with much of NSW. (MATS). The NSW Scientific Committee describes this community as occupying very dry ridgetops in Average annual rainfall figures range from just the Dunmore Hills and Jamberoo Valley area of below 1000 mm near Lake Illawarra to over 1800 Shellharbour and Kiama LGAs, usually where mm at Barren Grounds with the higher rainfall volcanic soils overlay latite (NSW Scientific isohyets closely correlated to the top of the Committee 2002a). escarpment (Mills & Jakeman 1995). The distribution of rainfall within the area can also be The vegetation of MATS is dominated by M. attributed to winds blowing from the south armillaris to eight metres in height with a canopy (Hazelton 1992). One third of the areas’ mean varying from open to closed (QEM 1994). annual rainfall occurs in January, February and Occasional emergent E. tereticornis, Hibiscus March with a marked secondary rainfall peak in heterophyllus and Alphitonia excelsa are present, as June (Hazelton 1992). Westerly airflows dominate are sclerophytic and mesic understorey species the weather during winter producing cooler, drier including Dodonaea viscosa spp. angustifolia, conditions although few or no frosts occur on the Bursaria spinosa var. spinosa, Indigofera australis, coastal plain (Hazelton 1992). Drought conditions Leucopogon juniperinus, Acacia mearnsii, can occur in the area and rainfall data indicates the Prostanthera linearis, Rapanea variabilis and occurrence of distinct runs of wet or dry years which Cassine australis (Black 2001; QEM 1994; M. last between six and eight years (Mills & Jakeman Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). 1995).
Groundcover density is greatest where the canopy is Robinson (1999) found that 80% of the 51 Z. open, particularly where exposed rock occurs (QEM granulata sites studied in that report occurred in an 1994). Groundcover species include Poa sieberana, environment that received an average annual Cymbopogon refractus, Microlaena stipoides, precipitation of between 1100 and 1400 mm. Dichelachne sp., Plectranthus parviflorus, Bracteantha bracteata, Calandrinia pickeringii, 5.4.6 Associated Vegetation Lepidosperma laterale, Crassula sieberana, Vegetation descriptions exist for 122 of the 158 Wahlenbergia gracilis, Cheilanthes distans and recorded Z. granulata sub-sites. These descriptions Cheilanthes sieberi (NSW Scientific Committee have been categorised into ten broad vegetation 2002a; Black 2001; QEM 1994; M. Bremner, DEC, types with an additional vegetation type (named pers. comm.). regenerating scrub) used to describe isolated plants or small patches of regenerating vegetation located A scrub variation of MATS to 3 metres in height in open paddocks or on road verges. Table 9 shows occurs with Z. granulata at Killalea State Park. The the distribution of Z. granulata sub-sites and plants floristics here are variable with mesic understorey within these vegetation types. species including Commersonia fraseri, Pittosporum revolutum, P. undulatum and Guioa semiglauca Three vegetation types are considered to provide dominating some sites and sclerophyllous species ‘typical’ natural habitat for Z. granulata: Melaleuca including Leptospermum laevigatum, Acacia armillaris scrub to tall shrubland; subtropical sophorae and Acacia longifolia dominating others rainforest; and Eucalyptus tereticornis woodland to (Leonard et al. 2002). open forest. These vegetation types are listed as endangered ecological communities on Schedule 1 Rainforest of the TSC Act, where they are termed Melaleuca The greatest number of Z. granulata sub-sites occurs armillaris Tall Shrubland, Illawarra Subtropical in association with the endangered ecological community, Illawarra Subtropical Rainforest (ISR).
Page 8 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
This rainforest community occupies high nutrient slashing (Mills & Jakeman 1993; M. Bremner, DEC, soils on the Illawarra coastal plain and escarpment pers. comm.). foothills and has been extensively cleared for agriculture (NSW Scientific Committee 2002b). It Eucalyptus tereticornis woodland to open forest includes the rainforest types described in Mills & Z. granulata has been recorded in woodland to open Jakeman (1995) as subtropical, moist subtropical forest dominated by E. tereticornis (Forest Red and dry subtropical (NSW Scientific Committee Gum) in association with E. eugenioides (Brown 2002b). Stringybark) or E. quadrangulata (White Box) at 11 per cent of sub-sites. Both sclerophytic and mesic Z. granulata typically inhabits the ‘drier’ rainforests species are recorded from the understorey of these of the coastal lowlands and only a few sub-sites are sub-sites, which form part of the Illawarra Lowlands recorded from moister locations on the foothills and Grassy Woodland endangered ecological slopes of the Illawarra escarpment. Typical community. rainforest species recorded at Z. granulata sites include Notelaea venosa, Hibiscus heterophyllus, Understorey species that have been recorded from Alphitonia excelsa, Commersonia fraseri, these sub-sites include Acacia mearnsii, Alphitonia Clerodendrum tomentosum, Alchornea ulicifolia, excelsa, Croton verreauxii, Notelaea venosa, Pittosporum undulatum, P. multiflorum Croton Geijera salicifolia var. latifolia, Commersonia verreauxii, Cassine australis and Streblus fraseri, Melaleuca armillaris, Dodonaea viscosa brunonianus (Mills & Jakeman 1993; M. Bremner, ssp. angustifolia, Pittosporum multiflorum, DEC, pers. comm.). Leucopogon juniperinus and Callistemon salignus. Groundcovers present include Poa labillardieri, Within rainforest vegetation, Z. granulata usually Microlaena stipoides, Commelina cyanea, occurs towards the edge of remnants, on rocky Dichondra repens and Einadia hastata (Mills & outcrops, or in regenerating stands. Consequently, Jakeman 1993; QEM 1994; M. Bremner, DEC, pers. dense infestations of Lantana (Lantana camara) comm.). characterise many of the rainforest sites that contain the species. Occasional plants occur under an intact Eucalyptus paniculata woodland to open forest canopy within relatively undisturbed stands of Z. granulata has been recorded growing in rainforest, however this is not common (M. association with E. paniculata at nine sub-sites Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). within Tabbagong Forest (Robinson 1999). Eucalyptus saligna X botryoides and Syncarpia Backhousia myrtifolia low closed to open forest glomulifera are co-dominant species at these sub- Nine per cent of recorded Z. granulata plants occur sites and a dry rainforest dominated understorey is in B. myrtifolia (Ironwood) dominated forest at just present (Robinson 1999). three sub-sites. These sub-sites are located at Toolijooa (Zg89a), Willow Gully (Zg60b), and Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustifolia scrub to open Minnamurra Rainforest (Zg30). scrub Robinson (1999) records two Z. granulata sub-sites Isolated regrowth along roadsides and paddocks at Tabbagong Forest (Zg53 and Zg55a) occurring in A large proportion of Z. granulata sub-sites (16%) scrub dominated by D. viscosa ssp. angustifolia, in occur in small patches of regenerating vegetation association with Acacia binervata and Alphitonia along roadsides and in paddocks. These sub-sites are excelsa. Both of these sub-sites are described as generally highly degraded and subject to ongoing being highly disturbed areas on the edge of pasture. disturbance in the form of regular grazing and/or
Table 9: Distribution of Z. granulata by vegetation type
Vegetation type Plants* Sub-sites Melaleuca armillaris (Bracelet Honey Myrtle) scrub to tall shrubland 4798 (41%) 24 (15%) Rainforest 3474 (30%) 35 (22%) Backhousia myrtifolia (Ironwood) low closed to open forest 1167 (10%) 3 (2%) Isolated regrowth along paddocks/roads 986 (8%) 25 (16%) Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) woodland to open forest 678 (6%) 17 (11%) Vegetation type not recorded 388 (3%) 36 (23%) Eucalyptus paniculata (Grey Ironbark) open forest 152 (1%) 9 (6%) Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustifolia (Sticky Hop Bush) scrub to open scrub 70 (1%) 3 (2%) Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine) woodland 17 (<1%) 2 (1%) Eucalyptus botryoides (Bangalay) open forest 4 (<1%) 2 (1%) Leptospermum laevigatum (Coastal Tea Tree) open scrub 3 (<1%) 1 (1%) Eucalyptus fastigata (Brown Barrel) forest 2 (<1%) 1 (1%) * using the lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 111 sub-sites for which plant counts exist
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 9 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
A sub-site (Zg6) located on a rock platform above a 6.2 Reproductive biology cliff at Stockyard Mountain occurs in a scrub to open scrub of D. viscosa ssp. angustifolia, in 6.2.1 Vegetative Reproduction association with A. binervata and A. implexa. Vegetative reproduction from subsurface epicormic Understorey species present include Rapanea buds (suckering) has not been reported for Z. variabilis and Backhousia myrtifolia (M. Bremner, granulata (Armstrong 2002). The species has been DEC, pers. comm.). observed to reshoot from the base of mature stems (coppice) in response to mechanical disturbance (M. Syncarpia glomulifera woodland Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). The age at which the Two sub-sites (Zg31 and Zg32) occur in species is capable of coppicing is not known. regenerating Syncarpia glomulifera woodland near Turpentine Creek Bridge, Jamberoo (Mills & 6.2.2 Breeding System Jakeman 1993). The only other sub-sites where Z. granulata has been recorded in association with S. Zieria flowers are morphologically hermaphrodite, glomulifera are within E. paniculatum woodland to having both male and female organs present in each open forest at Tabbagong Forest (Robinson 1999). flower. The condition of dichogamy (ie the maturation of the stigma and anthers at different Eucalyptus botryoides open forest times) is prevalent in the genus and is frequently A sub-site at Bass Point (Zg28) occurs in open coupled with herkogomy (ie the spatial separation of forest dominated by E. botryoides and B. anthers and stigma) (Armstrong 2002). These integrifolia. Understorey species present at this sub- conditions act to reduce the chances of self- site include Cassine australis, Synoum glandulosum, fertilisation and enhance cross-pollination. Breynia oblongifolia, Glochidion ferdinandi, However, it is not known whether these conditions Pittosporum revolutum, Acacia sophorae, operate in Z. granulata. Lomandra longifolia and Marsdenia rostrata (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). A sub-site on the A genetic study of Z. granulata plants at Tabbagong banks of the Minnamurra River (Zg49) occurs in Forest and Bombo found that a low level of genetic association with E. botryoides and littoral rainforest diversity was present, indicating that significant species (K. Glaister, Wollongong Botanic Gardens, cross-pollination was likely to be occurring within pers. comm.). that study area (Sharma & Young 2000).
Leptospermum laevigatum open scrub 6.2.3 Phenology A sub-site at Bass Point (Zg27) occurs in open scrub Armstrong (1990) states that the flowering period of dominated by Leptospermum laevigatum with a Z. granulata is from late spring to summer although closed understorey of Acacia sophorae, Breynia Robinson (1999) has observed the species flowering oblongifolia, Alphitonia excelsa, Polyscias elegans in early spring. It is not known whether individuals and Geitnoplesium cymosum (M. Bremner, DEC, flower regularly or sporadically. The species failed pers. comm.). to flower at many sites during the drought of 2002/2003 (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). Eucalyptus fastigata forest Mills & Jakeman (1993) describe a Z. granulata 6.2.4 Pollination sub-site (Zg84) that is located in regenerating E. fastigata forest at Foxground. Associated species Z. granulata is known to possess functional pollen include Acacia binervata, Acacia melanoxylon, although deformed pollen has been recorded for the Acmena smithii and Leptospermum morrisonii. species (Armstrong 2002). The species’ open floral structure indicates that pollination by a generalist 6 Biology and Ecology pollinator is likely, although it is possible that the pollinator is a specialist (Robinson 1999).
6.1 Habit and longevity Nectar seeking flies (viz. Biblio imitator, Biblionidae; Callophora hilli, Calliphoridae) have Z. granulata is a tall bushy shrub or small tree that been observed on Z. granulata flowers and appear to can grow to 6 metres in ideal conditions (M. be effective pollen vectors (Armstrong 2002). These Robinson, pers. comm.). The longevity of the flies are considered to be generalist pollinators and species is not known although, given the large girth strong fliers that are capable of traversing open of the trunks that have been observed on some spaces (Robinson 1999). mature specimens, it is suspected of being in excess of 50 years (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). Robinson (1999) has also observed an Eastern Spinebill (Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris) probing Z. granulata flowers.
Page 10 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
6.2.5 Seed ecology Following the IUCN Red List Criteria (1994), the total population of a species is considered to be the Seed dispersal in Zieria spp. is by forcible ejection number of mature individuals only. Using height from the mature coccus (fruit) (Armstrong 2002). class data collected at 14 Z. granulata sites The presence of an elaiosome (an ant-attracting (Robinson 1999; Kevin Mills & Associates 2000b; appendage to the seed) indicates that secondary M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.), it is estimated that dispersal by ants (termed myrmecochory) may also 68% of Z. granulata plants are mature individuals occur (Robinson 1999). (based on the assumption that all plants under 1 m in height are immature). Consequently, the total It appears likely that some form of dormancy population size of Z. granulata is estimated to be mechanism exists for Z. granulata seed and that a approximately 8000 mature individuals. disturbance related trigger is required to break this dormancy (see Section 6.4). However, low levels of 6.3.2 Population structure seedling recruitment have been observed in the inter-disturbance period (Robinson 1999; A. The number of Z. granulata plants that have been Bofeldt, Wollongong Botanic Gardens, pers. recorded at individual sites varies from a single comm.). plant to ‘thousands of plants’. As illustrated in Table 10 below, the majority of sites contain a very low There is no published information about the number of plants. longevity and viability of Z. granulata seed and Table 10: Z. granulata sites by size class* these are considered to be critical aspects of the species’ biology requiring investigation. Number of individuals Number of sites 1 to 10 23 (30%) 11 to 100 32 (42%) 6.2.6 Reproductive maturity 101 to 300 12 (16%) The age at which Z. granulata is capable of >301 10 (13%) *using lowest estimate of total plant numbers at 77 of the 97 flowering and producing seed is not known. This is Z. granulata sites a critical aspect of the species’ biology that requires investigation, as it will assist in determining A total of 26 Z. granulata populations (as defined in disturbance intervals that the species may be capable Section 5.1) can be delineated from existing records. of surviving. The number and size of the sites that form these populations is detailed in Table 11. Robinson (1999) makes the following unquantified observations of flowering Z. granulata plants at 6.4 Response to disturbance Tabbagong Forest: Zieria granulata has been observed to respond to • Flowering was observed in individuals less than physical disturbance (including grazing and 1 m tall (although these individuals may have slashing) by coppicing from the base of damaged had their height reduced by grazing); stems (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). However, • Flowering was most common for individuals the age at which plants are capable of coppicing in between 1 and 2 m tall; and response to disturbance in not known. • Flowering was typically more prolific for individuals greater than 2 m tall. It can be reasonably assumed that frequent disturbances (as a consequence of grazing, slashing, 6.3 Population size and structure fire or other activities that destroy the above ground parts of the plant and prevent seed production) may 6.3.1 Total population size lead to local extinctions of the species in the long At least 11,739 Z. granulata plants (including both term. This will occur if the disturbances are of a mature and immature individuals) have been frequency that prevent the plants that germinate in observed at 77 of the 97 recorded Z. granulata sites response to an initial disturbance from developing to (see Appendix 2). It should be noted that in a stage where they are capable of producing seed calculating this figure; the lowest stated value has and/or coppicing in response to subsequent been used for sites where a size range has been disturbances. recorded, and a value of 2000 plants has been attributed to each of the two sites that have been Some form of occasional disturbance may be described as containing thousands of plants. required to break seed dormancy mechanisms and encourage seedling recruitment of the species. It should also be noted that many sites have not been Circumstantial evidence for this is the high levels of surveyed for over ten years and some of these sites seedling recruitment observed at some sites may have been lost, or experienced significant following mechanical disturbance (Robinson 1999; changes in plant numbers, during this period. Mills & Jakeman 1993; QEM 1994; B. LaFoe, RTA, pers. comm.). It is likely that ‘natural’ disturbances
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 11 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) resulting from storm damage, animal scratching and 7 Previous Recovery Actions possibly fire, would provide such recruitment opportunities for the species in a healthy ecosystem. 7.1 Profile and environmental impact Research into how seedling recruitment is assessment guidelines influenced by the frequency and timing of disturbance events is required to inform site A species profile and environmental impact management decisions. assessment guidelines have been prepared for Z. granulata (Appendix 3) to assist public authorities, community groups and private landholders in the 6.5 Fire ecology conservation of the species. These documents also There have been no recorded observations of the aim to assist consent and determining authorities in effects of fire frequency, intensity or seasonality on the statutory assessment of potential impacts on the Z. granulata or its soil seed bank. As Z. granulata species. appears to be incapable of suckering, it is unlikely that the species would survive a fire that was of 7.2 Establishment of a recovery team great enough intensity to destroy the above ground parts of the plant. The intensity of fire (if any) that The Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery the Z. granulata soil seed bank is capable of Team was established in June 2001 to coordinate the surviving is not known. recovery planning for six plant species which occur in the Illawarra region and are listed as endangered Research into the fire response of the species at a State and National level. These species are (including its soil seed bank) is considered to be a Irenepharsus trypherus, Daphnandra sp. C critical aspect of the species’ biology requiring ‘Illawarra’, Zieria granulata, Pterostylis gibbosa, investigation. Cynanchum elegans and Pimelea spicata. Representatives of the public authorities that are involved in the planning and/or management of remnant vegetation in this region are present on the recovery team, as are representatives of various regional organisations and community groups.
Table 11: Z. granulata populations
Population Sites in population No. of No. of sites Total plants Sites in with plant recorded in population counts population* Stoney Range Zg1 1 1 92 Albion Park Zg2 to Zg5 4 3 615 Stockyard Mountain Zg6 1 1 56 Mount Terry Zg7, Zg8, Zg96 3 3 43 Dunmore Hills Zg9 to Zg21, Zg37, Zg93, Zg97 16 9 4213 North Killalea Zg22 to Zg25 4 4 424 South Killalea Zg26 1 1 124 Bass Point Zg27, Zg28 2 2 5 Minnamurra Rainforest Zg29, Zg30 2 1 10 Jamberoo Road Zg31, Zg32 2 2 17 Terragong Zg33 to Zg36, Zg38 to Zg43, Zg91, Zg92 12 8 441 South-east Jamberoo Zg44 1 1 30 Wallaby Hill Road Zg45 to Zg47 3 3 450 Minnamurra Headland Zg48 1 - - Minnamurra Bends Zg49, Zg50 2 2 4 North Kiama – Tabbagong Zg51 to Zg57, Zg94 8 8 597 West Kiama Zg58 to Zg67, Zg95 11 8 1496 East Kiama Zg68, Zg69 2 1 27 Boona Ridge Zg70 1 1 3 Mount Brandon – Jerrara Dam Zg71 to Zg76, Zg90 7 7 602 Saddleback Mountain Zg77 to Zg79 3 3 14 East Saddleback Zg80 to Zg82 3 2 69 Lower Foxground Zg83 1 - - Upper Foxground Zg84, Zg85 2 2 12 West Broughton Zg86 1 1 40 Toolijooa Zg87 to Zg89 3 3 2355 *using the lowest estimate of total plant numbers at the 77 sites for which plant counts exist. A value of 2000 plants has been attributed to each of the two sites that have been described as containing ‘thousands of plants’.
Page 12 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
• Consideration of a translocation and ex-situ 7.3 Community awareness initiatives conservation program; and • Consideration of the species’ ability to • An information brochure has been prepared and ‘recover’. distributed to raise awareness of the six ‘Threatened Plants of the Illawarra’ including Z. 8.2 Limits to current knowledge granulata. The level of information that is known about Z. • In June 2002, the Australian Network for Plant granulata (as detailed in sections 5 and 6) is limited Conservation and Wollongong City Council and only broad assumptions can be made regarding conducted a workshop to raise awareness of its biology and ecology. An enhanced knowledge of issues relating to the conservation of threatened key aspects of the species’ biology and ecology is flora in the Illawarra. Z. granulata was one of clearly required if land managers and the subject species of that workshop. consent/determining authorities are to make • In November 2002, Landcare Illawarra informed judgements regarding its conservation conducted a workshop to raise awareness of Z. requirements. granulata and five other endangered flora species amongst Landcare groups and interested Future research should target aspects that are individuals. relevant to the practical management of the species and its habitat. High priority research projects for • The DEC has initiated a program of meeting the species (as identified in Section 6) are described landholders with Z. granulata on their property below. to discuss sympathetic management of the species and the opportunities for entering into Reproductive maturity conservation agreements. Investigation of the age of reproductive maturity of Z. granulata is required. 7.4 In situ protection Seed ecology • A Registered Property Agreement under the Investigation of the nature of the Z. granulata soil Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997 has seed bank is required. This should include been signed to protect a sub-site (Zg89a) on investigation of the period that the soil seed bank privately owned land at Toolijooa. The sub-site remains viable and the identification of seed is of particular significance as it forms a dormancy and germination mechanisms. substantial proportion of the southern most recorded Z. granulata site. Fire and disturbance ecology • A Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA) An assessment of the response of the species under the TSC Act has been signed to protect a (including the soil seed bank) to different fire and site (Zg84) at Foxground. A VCA is also being disturbance regimes is required. negotiated with Kiama Municipal Council to protect a site (Zg60) at Willow Creek. Genetic investigation While not essential to its practical management, • Threat abatement works including fencing to genetic investigations across the natural range of Z. exclude livestock, bush regeneration and granulata would greatly improve our understanding rubbish removal are being implemented at the population structure of the species, and this several Z. granulata sites with the assistance of could inform land-use and recovery planning landholders and volunteer groups, including decisions. Tullimbah Landcare and the Friends of Bass Point. 8.3 Threatening processes
8 Management Issues The threats operating at Z. granulata sites are described below and an assessment of the threat level at each site is included at Appendix 4. 8.1 Introduction 8.3.1 Clearing for agriculture The following section identifies the management issues affecting Z. granulata including: The clearing of vegetation for agriculture (primarily for cattle grazing, dairying and horse agistment) is a • Our limited knowledge of the species’ biology potential threat to Z. granulata on a number of rural and ecology; properties. Liaison with the owners of these • The threats operating on the species; properties is required to prevent the inadvertent • Prioritising the recovery effort; clearing of habitat for the species. • Community awareness of the species;
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 13 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Where clearing approvals are required, access to through habitat loss and fragmentation, can accurate site location records will assist consent and indirectly affect sites in proximate or downslope determining authorities in considering the locations by modifying environmental conditions, conservation requirements of the species. Sufficient and contributing to habitat degradation. vegetated buffers should be retained around sites that contain Z. granulata to maintain the integrity of These impacts can result from factors including: its habitat. The extent and design of the buffers Altered hydrological flows (and associated required to achieve this will be site specific, • problems with sedimentation and erosion); depending on factors including aspect and slope (and their influence on a site’s exposure to • Altered soil pH and nutrient levels; insolation and wind and the latter’s influence on • Weed infestations; drainage patterns) and the adjacent landuse. • Increased pedestrian/vehicular access to sites; • Rubbish and green waste dumping; 8.3.2 Hard rock quarrying • Bushfire hazard reduction works; • Inappropriate landscaping activities; and The close association between Z. granulata and sites • Arson. with a latite substrate has placed the species under threat from hard rock quarrying activities. Twenty Accurate and readily accessible site location records sites in the Dunmore Hills area occur on land that will assist consent and determining authorities in has been identified by the NSW Department of considering the conservation requirements of the Mineral Resources as containing a state significant species during the assessment of rezoning and latite resource (Zg9 to Zg21, Zg33 to Zg37, Zg93 development applications. Methods to mitigate and Zg97). This includes two sites that have been direct and indirect impacts on the species should be described as containing thousands of Z. granulata incorporated into the design of developments that plants (Mills & Jakeman 1993). are to be constructed upslope of, or proximate to, Z. granulata sites. Mining interests own 18 of these sites, and the other two sites are located on crown land that forms part Recent residential developments at Shellcove (Zg22) of the Dunmore Quarry (Zg20 and Zg21). Of these, and Blackbutt (Zg1) have resulted in the loss of Z. nine sites are zoned 4(a) Extractive Industry and granulata plants and habitat. The consent conditions four sites are zoned 1(a) Rural, a zoning which for these developments required adjacent areas of permits mineral extraction with development habitat, which also contain the species, to be consent. The other seven sites are zoned 7(e) transferred to council as public reserves. On-going Environmental Protection (Scenic). active management of these reserves is needed to mitigate the indirect impacts of the developments. Shellharbour Council is to commence preparation of Such management may include bush regeneration, a Local Environmental Plan and Local Environment fencing, track construction, and liaison with local Study that reviews the mineral extraction boundaries residents to prevent rubbish dumping and other in the Dunmore Hills area. The preparation of these undesirable activities. documents will provide an opportunity to protect Z. granulata and its habitat from the direct and indirect 8.3.4 Grazing and associated activities impacts (altered hydrological conditions, dust etc) of quarrying through the rezoning process. Targeted Mills & Jakeman (1993) list grazing and other survey as part of this process will be necessary to farming activities as the most frequently recorded ensure that all locations of the species within the threat at the 33 Z. granulata sites surveyed during study area are identified and considered in the the preparation of that report. Grazing and trampling preparation of these documents. by livestock (ie horses and cattle) and slashing to maintain paddocks were recorded as threats at a Mining interests also own a site at Bombo (Zg56) in number of additional sites that were surveyed during Kiama LGA. A part of this site has recently been the the preparation of this plan (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. subject of a rezoning proposal to allow expansion of comm.). an adjacent quarry. If approved, the proposal will result in the removal of 12 Z. granulata plants (and Landholders are generally unaware of the presence an undetermined proportion of the soil seedbank) at of Z. granulata on their property and the impact that that site. their activities are having on the species. Liaison with these landholders is required to raise awareness 8.3.3 Residential development of the species and facilitate the implementation of protection measures, particularly fencing to exclude Population growth in the Illawarra is likely to place livestock and machinery. As the species tends to Z. granulata under increasing pressure from occupy rock outcrops and paddock edges, it is residential development. Such development, in addition to directly impacting upon the species
Page 14 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) anticipated that such protection measures are (Zg27 and Zg28), where it is being actively unlikely to significantly affect grazing activities. managed (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.).
8.3.5 Gas pipeline construction The management of weeds at Z. granulata sites requires targeted bush regeneration efforts. These Five Z. granulata sites (Zg38, Zg41, Zg89, Zg95 efforts should aim to restore, maintain and expand and Zg96) were impacted by the construction of the suitable habitat for the species. Mechanical weed Eastern Gas Pipeline in early 2000. The Department control methods should be avoided at Z. granulata of Land and Water Conservation (now DIPNR) sites unless they are a component of a priority approved the removal of approximately 400 of the research project identified in Section 8.2. 600 Z. granulata plants that occupied the pipeline easement during construction work. The number of 8.3.8 Roadside and dry stone wall maintenance plants that were actually removed is unclear however, as problems with the on-site identification Eleven Z. granulata sites occur, at least partially, on and delineation of environmentally sensitive areas road verges that are managed by Kiama Municipal were observed during construction work (S. Nally, Council. At some of these sites, the species has been DEC, pers. comm.). impacted by activities associated with roadside and dry stone wall maintenance, including slashing and Under the conditions of approval for the project, the spraying with herbicide. In addition to physically pipeline operator (Duke Energy) is required to damaging Z. granulata plants, these activities have restore habitat at these sites to a similar or better damaged or removed regenerating habitat (M. condition than prior to disturbance, and to restore Z. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). granulata numbers to pre-clearing levels or greater. Kiama Municipal Council has prepared a 8.3.6 Road construction management plan that outlines measures to protect Z. granulata plants at two roadside sites (Zg66 and One of the five proposed routes for the Princes Zg67). A similar plan is required to protect and Highway upgrade between Gerringong and Berry manage other roadside sites within the LGA through (the North Saddle Corridor) will pass through a the creation of buffer zones around individual plants rainforest remnant that contains two sites (Zg87 and and the regeneration of habitat where groups of Zg88) that have been described as containing more plants are located. than 1000 plants each (Muston & Associates 1991). The RTA is yet to determine its preferred route for 8.3.9 Rubbish dumping this section of the highway (Chris Cleary, RTA, pers. comm.). Dumped rubbish including green waste, dog faeces, household rubbish, construction materials and old Under statutory environmental impact assessment cars has been observed at a number of Z. granulata processes, the RTA is required to consider the direct sites (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.). The and indirect impacts of the proposed road upgrade dumping of these materials has the potential to on Z. granulata, in addition to Daphnandra sp C damage Z. granulata plants and degrade its habitat ‘Illawarra’, Illawarra Subtropical Rainforest and any through burial, physical damage and soil other threatened species, populations or ecological compaction. Rubbish dumping also has the potential communities that occur in that area. to introduce weed propagules and pathogens to a site, and encourage weed growth by altering pH and The construction of the North Kiama By-Pass nutrient levels in the soil. section of the Princes Highway will result in the removal of 36 Z. granulata plants from Tabbagong The removal of dumped rubbish and the education Forest (Robinson 1999). of landholders and neighbours through letterbox drops, media articles and signage is considered to be 8.3.7 Weed invasion the key to managing this threat. Weed invasion threatens a large proportion of Z. 8.3.10 Bushfire hazard reduction activities granulata sites (M. Bremner, DEC, pers. comm.; Robinson 1999; Sharma & Young 2001). Lantana In the absence of specific evidence to the contrary, it (Lantana camara) is the most commonly recorded must be assumed that Z. granulata will be adversely weed species at these sites and, along with Kikuyu impacted by frequent bushfire hazard reduction (Pennisetum clandestinum) and African Olive (Olea activities including prescribed burning and europaea ssp. africana), is considered to be one of mechanical vegetation clearance. the most important weeds requiring management (Mills & Jakeman 1993). Bitou Bush As a consequence of our limited knowledge of the (Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotunda) occurs fire ecology of the species (see Section 6.5), the fire in close proximity to Z. granulata at Bass Point intervals recommended for Z. granulata are based
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 15 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) on the vegetation formations that are present at each To provide direction regarding where the limited site (see Table 12). A minimum fire interval of ten resources associated with the recovery program for years has been attributed to sites that are located Z. granulata are best focused, it is useful to assess within vegetation formations where the natural fire the relative conservation significance of individual frequency may be more frequent than this (eg Z. granulata sites. The relevant criteria for such an sclerophyll grassy woodland). This is because ten assessment include: years is considered to be a conservative minimum • The number of plants that are present, including estimate of the time required for the species to reach consideration of the soil seed bank; reproductive maturity. Please note that, to allow time for seed production and the building of a soil • The proportion of the population that is present seedbank, a period of three reproductive years at the site; should be added to each of these minimum fire • The location of the site in relation to the current intervals (NPWS 2002b). distributional limits of the species; • The size, condition and connective importance Table 12: Fire interval guidelines for Z. granulata* of the habitat; Vegetation Min. fire Max. fire Notes • The uniqueness of the habitat; and formation interval interval • The management potential of site including the ** likelihood of ameliorating existing threatening Rainforest N/A N/A Fire should be avoided processes. Wet 25 years 60 years Avoid crown Sclerophyll fires at lower Appendix 5 contains an interim assessment of the forest end of interval relative conservation significance of all known Z. range Semi-mesic 10 years 50 years Avoid crown granulata sites in relation to the above criteria. It grassy forest fires at lower should be noted however that this assessment is a end of interval ‘broad brush’ assessment that is based on limited range data. The assessment is not intended for use in Sclerophyll 10 years 40 years Avoid crown grassy fires at lower statutory environmental impact assessment woodland/ end of interval processes. Site specific assessments must be Shrubland range undertaken before decisions regarding the future Shrubby dry 10 years 30 years Avoid crown management of individual sites are made. sclerophyll fires at lower forest end of interval range A few broad assumptions can be made regarding * adapted from NPWS 2002b ** add three productive years some of the areas and sites that are likely to play a to the minimum fire interval to allow for seed production and central role in the long-term survival of Z. the building of seedbank granulata. The Dunmore Hills (ie the naturally The mechanical clearance of firebreaks through Z. vegetated hills between Oak Flats and the granulata sites should be avoided unless it is a Jamberoo Valley) is one such area, as it contains component of a priority research project identified in extensive contiguous areas of good quality habitat Section 8.2. for the species. A total of 27 Z. granulata sites have been recorded from the area, including two To enable the conservation requirements of the sites that have been described as containing species to be considered by public authorities when thousands of individuals. planning bush fire hazard reduction work or issuing Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates (BFHRC), While the vast majority of Z. granulata sites the species should be placed on the Threatened occupy small, fragmented vegetation remnants Species Hazard Reduction List (TSHRL). This list that will require intensive active management to has been prepared as part of the Bush Fire restore and maintain suitable habitat for the Environmental Assessment Code established by the species in the long term, this is not the case for Rural Fires and Environmental Assessment many of the sites that are located in the Dunmore Amendment Act 2002. Hills.
Access to accurate location records (ie within 100 m The sites in the Dunmore Hills may therefore play accuracy) is required to ensure that the impact of a central role in the long-term survival of the managed bush fire hazard reduction activities on the species. However, land-use conflicts with the species is minimised. quarry industry will need to be satisfactorily resolved for this to occur. 8.4 Prioritising the recovery effort Other sites that are located in large areas of 8.4.1 Relative conservation significance contiguous vegetation occur at Stockyard Mountain (Zg6), Upper Foxground (Zg84) and Upper Irwins Creek (Zg85). Sites where relatively
Page 16 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) large numbers of plants (>500) have been 8.6 Translocation and ex-situ conservation recorded occur at Albion Park (Zg4), Willow Gully (Zg60) and Toolijooa (Zg87 and Zg88). 8.6.1 Translocation Translocation, defined as the deliberate transfer of 8.5 Community awareness of the species plants or regenerative plant material from an ex-situ collection or natural population to a location in the An increased awareness of Z. granulata is required wild, including existing or new sites or those where to ensure that the species is appropriately considered the taxon is now locally extinct (Vallee et al. 2004), in statutory environmental planning and impact is often raised as a possible method of conserving assessment processes, and to facilitate the threatened flora. However, given the high cost and implementation of threat abatement works. The risk associated with the technique, translocation target groups for awareness raising initiatives are: should only be considered as a last resort when all • Private landholders; other management options are deemed inappropriate • Public authorities; and or have failed. As stated by Vallee et al. (2004), • The general community ‘where possible, resources will be more effective when directed towards conserving existing The informed support of the private landholders populations in-situ through habitat protection and/or whose land contains Z. granulata is essential to the habitat rehabilitation measures and through the success of the recovery program. Regular liaison control of threatening processes’. with effected landholders and the publication of an annual newsletter detailing progress of the recovery Translocation is not considered to be necessary for program are two initiatives that will be established the survival of Z. granulata as the in-situ through this plan to encourage such support. conservation measures proposed in this recovery plan are expected to meet the conservation needs of Public authorities with consent, determining or the species. Further, primarily due to the uncertainty environmental planning responsibilities under the of success and the risks associated with EP&A Act require an understanding of the species, translocation, the technique should not be particularly regarding location details, habitat considered by consent or determining authorities to requirements and sensitivity to impacts. Some public be an appropriate means of ameliorating the impact authorities also have an operational role (Rural Fire of a proposal on the species (Vallee et al. 2004). Service, Transgrid) in potential habitat for the species and as such, may inadvertently impact upon 8.6.2 Ex-situ collection Z. granulata sites. The establishment of an ex-situ collection of Z. granulata seed, while not essential to the survival of Initiatives to assist public authorities in meeting the species, is considered to be a prudent their statutory obligations in relation to the contingency measure to protect against the loss of consideration of Z. granulata in environmental genetic material that may result from unexpected impact assessment and land-use planning processes local extinctions. High priority sites for seed include: collection include the following: • The preparation and distribution of a species • Sites near the species’ distributional limits; profile and environmental impact assessment • Sites containing unusual habitat for the species; guidelines; and and • The verification and registration of site • Sites that form part of a population (as locations on the DEC Atlas of NSW Wildlife. described in Table 11) that contains less than 100 plants. The third target audience for awareness raising initiatives is the general community. Initiatives that 8.7 Ability to recover aim to enhance the social benefits of the recovery program amongst this target group include: ‘Recovery’ in the context of this plan, is to maintain the current endangered status of Z. granulata and • The preparation of an annual newsletter prevent the taxon from moving to a less desirable detailing the progress of the recovery program, conservation status (ie TSC Act Schedule 1, Part 4, which will be distributed to effected presumed extinct). The likelihood of recovery of Z. landholders, public authorities, community granulata in this context is high provided that the groups and interested individuals; recovery actions outlined in this recovery plan are • The preparation of press releases to highlight implemented, monitored and amended as required. key recovery actions; and • The involvement of community members in the implementation of recovery actions.
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 17 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
9 Proposed Recovery Objectives, advice from the DEC regarding the Actions and Performance Criteria distribution and ecology of the species Specifically, Shellharbour City Council will ensure The overall objective of this recovery plan is to that the Mineral Resources LEP and the Urban provide for the continued and long-term survival of Fringe LEP consider measures to protect the species Zieria granulata in the wild by promoting the in-situ and its habitat from the direct and indirect effects of conservation of the species across its natural range. quarrying and residential development respectively. The specific recovery objectives are: Action 1.3: The Department of Infrastructure Planning and Natural Resources will ensure • To conserve Z. granulata using land-use and that when Environmental Planning conservation planning mechanisms; Instruments are prepared or reviewed, they • To identify and manage the threats operating have reference to this recovery plan and any at sites that contain the species; future advice from the DEC regarding the • To provide the community with information distribution and ecology of the species that assists in conserving the species; • To raise awareness of the species and involve Action 1.4: Councils and the Department of the community in the recovery program; Infrastructure Planning and Natural • To promote research that will assist with the Resources will assess developments and management of the species; activities with reference to this recovery plan, • To coordinate an ex-situ conservation environmental impact assessment guidelines program to safeguard genetic material from (Appendix 3) and any future advice from the extinction. DEC regarding the distribution, habitat, threats, biology and ecology of the species Specific Objective 1: To conserve Z. granulata using land-use and conservation Action 1.5: The DEC, in consultation with the planning mechanisms recovery team, will reconsider the need for a declaration of critical habitat by the third year A high proportion of Z. granulata sites occur on of implementation of this plan freehold land that is not managed primarily for conservation purposes. This objective aims to Performance Criterion 1 increase the legislative protection afforded these sites through the following mechanisms: The level of protection afforded Z. granulata sites and populations is increased through land-use and • Conservation agreements and covenants under conservation planning decisions. the NP&W Act, TSC Act and Conveyancing Act 1919; Specific Objective 2: To identify and manage • Environmental Planning Instruments under Part the threats operating at sites that contain the 3 of the EP&A Act; species • Environmental impact assessment under the EP&A Act; and Threats operating at Z. granulata sites (in addition • Consideration of a critical habitat declaration to land clearing, which is addressed under Specific under the TSC Act. Objective 1) include grazing and trampling by livestock, weed invasion, vegetation slashing, Priority sites requiring action under this objective herbicide spraying, and rubbish dumping. Actions are listed as high and moderate risk sites in the under this objective aim to manage these threats threat assessment for the species (Appendix 4). through the implementation of appropriate in-situ threat abatement measures. Action 1.1: The DEC will advise landholders of the opportunities and advantages of entering Action 2.1: The DEC will prepare site into conservation agreements and covenants management statements for sites located on land that is managed by the DEC, or land that Opportunities for such agreements include is subject to a VCA Voluntary Conservation Agreements (VCAs) under the NP&W Act, Joint Management Agreements and Site management statements will be prepared Property Management Plans under the TSC Act, and following the proforma in Appendix 6. These appropriately worded covenants under the statements will detail the specific threat abatement Conveyancing Act 1919. measures that are required at each site and a timetable for the implementation of these measures. Action 1.2: Councils will ensure that when Local The sites that are relevant to this action are Zg39, Environment Plans and Development Control Zg30 and Zg84. Plans are prepared or reviewed, they have reference to this recovery plan and any future Performance Criterion 2.1
Page 18 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Site management statements for relevant sites In-situ protection measures for the species prepared within one year. incorporated into Plans of Management within three years. Action 2.2: The DEC will implement threat abatement measures in accordance with the Action 2.4: Kiama Municipal Council will site management statements prepared under prepare and implement a management plan for Action 2.1 roadside sites within Kiama LGA Kiama Municipal Council will prepare and Performance Criterion 2.2 implement a management plan for roadside Z. Threat abatement measures for relevant sites granulata sites that occur within Kiama LGA. This implemented in accordance with site management management plan will contain the following: statements. • location details of all roadside Z. granulata sites Action 2.3: Councils will incorporate site specific in the LGA and a process for the easy field protection measures for the species into Plans identification of these sites by Council staff; of Management for community land • measures to protect the species from damage Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Municipal during roadside and dry stone wall maintenance Council will incorporate site specific in-situ activities; protection measures for Z. granulata into the Plans • measures to regenerate habitat for the species at of Management for community land where the specific roadside locations; and species occurs. • a program to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed identification, Relevant sites within Shellharbour LGA occur in protection and regeneration measures. Elisabeth Brownlee Reserve (Zg2), and Bass Point Performance Criterion 2.4 Reserve (Zg27 and Zg28). Two proposed council reserves at Blackbutt (Zg1) and Shellcove (Zg22) Management plan for roadside sites in Kiama LGA will also be relevant to this action once their prepared within two years. rezoning is complete. Action 2.5: The DEC will continue to liaise with the Killalea State Park Trust to facilitate the Relevant sites within Kiama LGA occur in Bonaira implementation of threat abatement measures Native Gardens (Zg68), Jerrara Dam (Zg71 to at sites within Killalea State Park Zg75), Kiama Aquatic Centre (Zg58), Minnamurra Headland (Zg48), Turpentine Reserve (Zg51), and Performance Criterion 2.5 Stead Reserve (Zg59). Threat abatement measures implemented at all sites Site specific information on Z. granulata that is to within Killalea State Park within five years. be incorporated into these plans includes: Action 2.6: The DEC will liaise with the • Plant numbers, condition and location details; Department of Lands and the Roads and • An assessment of existing and potential threats Traffic Authority regarding the status and at the site; management of sites on land that is under their • Details of threat abatement measures to be control implemented to address these threats; and Crown land relevant to this action includes Bass • Details of a monitoring program to assess the Point Reserve (Zg27 and Zg28), Killalea State Park effectiveness of threat abatement measures. (Zg23 to Zg26), North Kiama Park (Zg94), Saddleback Mountain Reserve (Zg78 and Zg79), Where a Plan of Management has already been and land adjacent to the Dunmore Quarry (Zg20 and prepared that does not address the matters listed Zg21). Land managed by the RTA that is relevant to above, an addendum to the plan will be prepared this action occurs at Tabbagong Forest (Zg51 and that addresses these matters. Zg52) and the Minnamurra Bends (Zg50).
Performance Criterion 2.6 Kiama Municipal Council will also consider the need to prepare management plans (or addenda to Liaison commenced within one year. existing plans) for Council managed crown reserves that contain the species. Such sites occur in North Action 2.7: The DEC will liaise with the Kiama Park (Zg94) and Saddleback Mountain Department of Infrastructure Planning and Reserve (Zg78 and Zg79). Natural Resource (DIPNR) and Duke Energy to ensure that the approval conditions for the Performance Criterion 2.3 Eastern Gas Pipeline that relate to the species have been complied with
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 19 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Performance Criterion 2.7 mechanisms to aid the dissemination of information about the species: Compliance with relevant approval conditions demonstrated within two years. • Continued coordination of the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery Team; Action 2.8: The DEC will coordinate surveys to determine the size and status of freehold sites • Prompt distribution of accurate location records to relevant parties; and Performance Criterion 2.8 • Updated species profiles and environmental impact assessment guidelines prepared. The size and status of all freehold sites determined within three years, subject to landholder approval. Action 3.1: DEC will coordinate regular meetings of the Illawarra Threatened Flora Action 2.9: The DEC, in consultation with (and Recovery Team subject to the approval of) landholders, will The DEC will continue to coordinate regular prepare site management statements for meetings of the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora priority sites on freehold land Recovery Team to oversee the implementation of The DEC will assess the condition of priority sites this recovery plan. These meetings will serve to located on freehold land, subject to the approval of facilitate discussion on the management of the landholders. The DEC will then, in consultation species and the dissemination of information to key with the landholders, prepare site management stakeholders. statements (following the proforma in Appendix 7) Performance Criterion 3.1 that detail the specific threat abatement measures required at those sites. Meetings of the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery Team held twice a year. For the purposes of this action, priority sites are Action 3.2: The DEC will coordinate the prompt those sites that are listed in the low or moderate risk distribution of site records through the Atlas of categories of the threat assessment for the species NSW Wildlife (Appendix 4). The interim assessment of relative conservation significance (Appendix 5) should be Performance Criterion 3.2 used to determine priorities within this group of priority sites, where necessary. Location records available on the Atlas of NSW Wildlife within four months of verification or Performance Criterion 2.9 discovery. Site management statements prepared for priority Action 3.3: The DEC will update the profile and sites on freehold land within three years, subject to environmental impact assessment guidelines landholder approval. for the species to incorporate information acquired during the implementation of this Action 2.10: The DEC will encourage and assist recovery plan landholders in the implementation of threat abatement measures on freehold land in Performance Criterion 3.3 accordance with the site management statements prepared under Action 2.9 Profile and environmental impact assessment guidelines for the species updated as required. Performance Criterion 2.10 Action 3.4: The DEC will prepare a submission Threat abatement measures for relevant sites to add the species to the Threatened Species implemented in accordance with site management Hazard Reduction List statements within five years, subject to landholder The DEC will prepare a submission to have Z. approval. granulata added to the Threatened Species Hazard Reduction List (TSHRL), which is a part of the Specific Objective 3: To provide the Bush Fire Environmental Assessment Code. This community with information that assists in will enable the conservation requirements of the conserving the species species to be considered by public authorities when planning bush fire hazard reduction work or issuing The prompt and effective distribution of information Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates. on Z. granulata and its habitat is an important component of ensuring that the conservation Performance Criterion 3.4 requirements of the species are appropriately Species added to the TSHRL within one year. considered in environmental impact assessment, land-use planning, and land management processes. Actions under this objective use the following
Page 20 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Action 3.5: Public authorities will inform the actions including survey, monitoring and bush DEC of decisions that may affect the species, regeneration. The DEC will also liaise with in accordance with statutory requirements Landcare Illawarra to encourage more Landcare groups to become involved in the recovery program. Public authorities will inform the DEC if planning or development decisions are made that may affect The Mt Kembla Environmental Education Centre Z. granulata or its habitat, in accordance with will develop a monitoring and conservation program statutory requirements. For the purposes of this to involve students in threat abatement, survey and action, public authorities are taken to include the monitoring activities at Z. granulata sites in Killalea following: State Park. • Shellharbour City Council; Performance Criterion 4.2 • Kiama Municipal Council; • Department of Infrastructure Planning and Community groups and volunteers aware of the Natural Resources; and recovery program and involved in the • Rural Fire Service implementation of recovery actions. Action 4.3: The DEC and Councils will issue The Rural Fire Service will implement this action, press releases that highlight key events in the with respect to bush fire hazard reduction, by implementation of this recovery plan ensuring that there is adequate access by the DEC to temporal and spatial data from the Bushfire Risk The DEC, Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Information Management System (BRIMS). Municipal Council will issue press releases that highlight key events in the implementation of this Performance Criterion 3.5 recovery plan. Such key events may include the DEC informed of decisions that affect Z. granulata signing of conservation agreements, the discovery of or its habitat. new sites, the establishment of new bush regeneration groups etc. Specific Objective 4: To raise awareness of Performance Criterion 4.3 the species and involve the community in the Media coverage of key events associated with the recovery program implementation of this recovery plan achieved. In order to enhance the social benefits of the recovery program for Z. granulata, actions under Specific Objective 5: To promote research this objective aim to raise awareness of the recovery that will assist with the management of the plan and involve the community in its species implementation. Actions under this objective aim to improve our Action 4.1: The DEC will prepare and distribute knowledge of aspects of the ecology and biology of an annual newsletter detailing the progress of the species that will assist in its practical the Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora management. Recovery Program (IRTFRP) Action 5.1: The DEC will coordinate The DEC will prepare an annual newsletter to raise investigations into essential aspects of species’ awareness of the IRTFRP (which includes the Z. ecology and biology as identified in this granulata recovery program) and encourage recovery plan community involvement in its implementation. The newsletter will be distributed to effected The DEC will liaise with local research institutions landholders, public authorities, community groups (including Universities and Botanic Gardens) to and interested individuals. encourage and facilitate research into the species that is consistent with the priorities outlined in Performance Criterion 4.1 Section 8.2. Where possible, the DEC will undertake Newsletter produced and distributed annually. components of this research program. Action 4.2: The DEC, Councils and the Mt Action 5.2: The DEC will investigate basic Kembla Environmental Education Centre will aspects of the seed biology of the species raise awareness of, and encourage community involvement in, the recovery program Performance Criterion 5 The DEC, Shellharbour City Council and Kiama Investigations into essential aspects of the species’ Municipal Council will raise awareness of the biology and ecology commenced within two years. recovery program amongst community groups and interested individuals, and will encourage involvement in the implementation of recovery
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 21 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Specific Objective 6: To coordinate an ex- surveys) will provide benefits to the environment situ conservation program to safeguard and/or enhance the general well being of the genetic material from extinction community and individuals involved. As discussed in Section 8.5, the establishment of a Increased awareness regarding the conservation of comprehensive ex-situ germplasm collection for Z. threatened species in a rural setting will encourage granulata is not considered necessary for the recognition amongst landholders of the value of survival of the species. However, to provide some remnant vegetation and the responsibility for habitat protection against the unexpected loss of genetic management. Personal and regular contact with material, it would be prudent to maintain an ex-situ landholders and local community groups is a key collection of Z. granulata seed collected from strategy to achieving this. priority sites (as described in Section 8.6.2). Action 6.1: The DEC will aim to collect a Negative social impacts are not envisaged as the representative sample of seed from each implementation of the recovery plan is not expected priority site, to be placed in long-term seed to affect public land usage to any great extent, and storage modification of private land management patterns will only occur at the land manager’s discretion. Action 6.2: The DEC will undertake the long- Continued liaison with the local community, term storage of seed collected under Action effected landholders and public authorities will 6.1 address and minimise any unforeseen negative social impacts arising from the implementation of Performance Criterion 6 this plan. A representative sample of seed collected from each 11.2 Economic consequences priority site and placed in long-term storage within three years, subject to landholder approval. The economic consequences of this recovery plan are those that are associated with its implementation. 10 Implementation This includes the costs associated with on-ground habitat management, conducting biological research The total cost to implement this recovery plan is and monitoring, community education and estimated to be $83,150 over five years. This participation, and on-going recovery team amount does not include site management costs or coordination. These costs can be off-set and the costs associated with the preparation and minimised by: implementation of management plans for roadside • implementing a long-term strategic framework sites and community land, as these costs are yet to for managing the species and its habitat; be determined. A total of $40,450 will be provided • maintaining accurate information on the as in-kind contributions with an additional $42,700 distribution and status of sites; required to implement actions that are currently • adopting a cooperative approach to management unfunded. Additional funds will be sought from with the relevant land managers and the local sources including the Natural Heritage Trust, community are involved; and Environmental Trust, industry sponsors, the NSW State Biodiversity Program, Threatened Species • seeking funds from external sources. Network, Threatened Species Appeal and the DEC’s annual operational provisions for threatened species The improved environmental impact assessment that programs. will result from mechanisms established in this recovery plan will assist consent and determining Table 13 details the costs and identifies the parties authorities to meet there statutory responsibilities. responsible for the implementation of specific As these requirements already apply, the economic recovery actions. consequences of such improvements are not attributable to this recovery plan. Substantial economic consequences may result 11 Social and Economic Consequences where the species’ conservation requirements prevent or restrict the use of land that is currently identified for mineral extraction, agriculture or 11.1 Social consequences urban development. These consequences will be identified and addressed by statutory environmental It is expected that the implementation of this impact assessment processes. recovery plan will have positive social impacts on the local communities involved and in particular, on the owners and managers of Z. granulata habitat. The implementation of recovery actions (including bush regeneration, fencing, site monitoring and
Page 22 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
12 Roles/Interests of Indigenous People Connell Wagner (2003). Cleary Brothers Quarry Rezoning Lot 1 DP 858245, off Dunsters and Indigenous communities with an interest in the Lindsay Lanes, Croom, Local Environment actions proposed in this recovery plan have not yet Study. Unpublished report prepared for been identified. Implementation of recovery actions Shellharbour City Council. under this plan will include consideration of the role and interests of indigenous communities in the Corkery, R. W. & Co. (2003). Environmental region. Impact Statement for the proposed Dunmore Quarry Production Increase. Unpublished report prepared for Boral Resources (NSW) Pty 13 Biodiversity Benefits Limited. The conservation and study of Z. granulata will IUCN (1994). IUCN Red List Categories. IUCN benefit other species that share the same habitat. It Species Survival Commission, Kew. will also help to conserve areas of the following endangered ecological communities that are listed Keith, D.A., Chalson, J.M. & Auld, T.D. (1997). on Schedule 1 of the TSC Act; Illawarra Subtropical Assessing the status of threatened plants: a new Rainforest, Melaleuca armillaris Tall Shrubland, methodology and an application to the vascular and Illawarra Lowlands Grassy Woodland. flora of New South Wales. Final Report to Environment Australia, Endangered Species The raised awareness of Z. granulata created during Program Project No. 450. the implementation of this plan will raise the profile Keith, D. A. (1998). An evaluation and modification of all threatened species in the community. This in of World Conservation Union Red List Criteria turn will lead to greater opportunities for the for classification of extinction risk in vascular conservation of threatened species and increased plants. Conservation Biology 12(5), 1076-1090 protection of biodiversity. Keith, D.A., Auld, T.D., Ooi, M.K.J. & Mackenzie, 14 Preparation Details B.D.E. (2000). Sensitivity analyses of decision rules in World Conservation Union (IUCN) Red This recovery plan was prepared by Martin Bremner List criteria using Australian plants. Biological of the DEC Threatened Species Unit, Metropolitan Conservation 94, 311-319. Region, with the advice and assistance of the Kevin Mills & Associates (2000a). Nature Illawarra Regional Threatened Flora Recovery Conservation Study Rural Lands Study Area, Team. City of Shellharbour. Unpublished report prepared for Shellharbour City Council. 15 Review Date Kevin Mills & Associates (2000b). Study of the This recovery plan is to be formally reviewed and Threatened Species Zieria granulata, Bombo updated by the DEC, in conjunction with the Quarry Extension, Municipality of Kiama. recovery team, five years from the date of its Unpublished report. publication. Leonard, G., Chamberlain, S., deLacey, C. & Engel, D. (2000). Vegetation Rehabilitation and 16 References Maintenance Plan: Killalea State Park, Shellharbour, Illawarra Region. Armstrong, J.A. (1990) Zieria in Harden, G.J. (Ed.). Mills, K. (1987). Survey of Native Vegetation Flora of New South Wales: Volume 1. University Remnants Killalea State Recreation Area Press, Kensington NSW. Shellharbour Municipality. Unpublished report Armstrong, J.A. (2002). The genus Zieria prepared for the NSW National Parks & Wildlife (Rutaceae): a systematic and evolutionary study. Service. Australian Systematic Botany Vol. 15 (3): 277 – Mills, K. & Jakeman, J. (1993). Survey of the Rare 463. Plant Species Zieria granulata (Rutaceae) Black, D. (2001). Vegetation of the Minnamurra Illawarra Region New South Wales. River Catchment. Unpublished report prepared Unpublished report. for the Minnamurra Environment Group. Mills, K. & Jakeman, J. (1995). Rainforests of the Hazelton, P.A. (1992). Soil Landscapes of the Illawarra District. Coachwood Publishing, Kiama 1:100 000 Sheet. Department of Jamberoo NSW. Conservation and Land Management, Sydney Mills, K. & Jakeman, J. (1996). Rare plants in the NSW. Illawarra 1: Zieria granulata (Rutatceae). Coachwood Publishing, Jamberoo NSW.
Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Page 23 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Muston & Associates (1991). Gerringong to Berry Vallee L., Hogbin T., Monks L., Makinson B., Highway Route Selection Study, Flora and Matthes M., and M. Rossetto (2004) Guidelines Fauna Survey and Assessment. Unpublished for the translocation of threatened plants in report prepared for the NSW Roads and Australia. Second Edition. Australian Network Transport Authority. for Plant Conservation, Canberra. NPWS (1995). Vegetation survey and mapping of Upper North East New South Wales. NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, Hurstville NSW. NPWS (2001). Clearing of native vegetation as a key threatening process – an overview. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville NSW. NPWS (2002a). Draft Plan of Management for Lands at Willow Creek Rainforest Subject To Voluntary Conservation. Draft report prepared by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. NPWS (2002b). Draft Fire Interval Guidelines for Broad Vegetation Types. Draft report prepared by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. NSW Scientific Committee (2001). Final determination to list ‘Clearing of native vegetation as a key threatening process’ on Schedule 3 of the TSC Act. NSW Scientific Committee (2002a). Final determination to list Melaleuca armillaris Tall Shrubland as an ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act. NSW Scientific Committee (2002b). Final determination to list Illawarra Subtropical Rainforest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion as an ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act. Quality Environmental Management (1994). CSR Readymix, Albion Park: Vegetation and Fauna Study. Unpublished report prepared for CSR Readymix. Robinson, M. V. (1999). Section 5A Assessment of the Endangered Zieria granulata at the proposed North Kiama By-pass. Unpublished report prepared for the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority Southern Region. Robinson, M. V. (2001). Ad hoc planning: The continuing destruction of remnant habitats at Albion Park, Illawarra Region NSW. A submission in response to proposed further urban expansion at Albion Park. Unpublished report. Sharma, I.M. & Young A.G. (2001). Genetic diversity analysis among fragmented populations of Zieria granulata within the Tabbagong Forest and RSA Quarry land. Unpublished report prepared for the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority Southern Region.
Page 24 Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Table 13: Estimated costs, funding source and responsible parties for implementing the actions identified in the Zieria granulata Recovery Plan
Action Action Description Priority Responsible Fund Cost Estimate ($’s/year) Total Cost No. Party Source Yr1 Yr2 Yr3 Yr4 Yr5 ($’s) 1.1 Notify landholders 1 DEC In kind 700 700 700 - - 2100 1.2Preparation/review of LEPs and DCPs1 SCC, KMC - #### # - 1.3Preparation/review of EPIs 1 DIPNR - #### # - 1.4Environmental impact assessment 1 SCC, KMC, DIPNR - #### # - 1.5 Consideration of critical habitat 2 DEC In kind - - * - - * 2.1 Site management statements for NPWS/VCA sites 1 DEC In kind 2100 - - - - 2100 DEC In kind 1050 - - - - 1050 2.2Threat abatement for NPWS/VCA sites1 DEC In kind**** * * 2.3Plans of Management for community land1 SCC, KMC In kind**** * * 2.4 Management plan for roadside sites 1 KMC In kind - * - - - * 2.5 Liaison regarding sites in Killalea State Park 1 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 2.6 Liaison regarding sites on crown and RTA land 1 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 2.7 Liaison regarding Eastern Gas Pipeline sites 1 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 2.8 Verification of freehold site records 1 DEC Unsecured 7000 7000 7000 - - 21,000 2.9 Site management statements for freehold sites 1 DEC Unsecured 8400 8400 4900 - - 21,700 2.10Threat abatement for freehold sites 1 DEC Unsecured**** * * 3.1 Coordination of recovery team 1 DEC In kind 3500 3500 3500 3500 3500 17,500 3.2 Distribution of location records 1 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 3.3 Update species profiles and EIA guidelines 1 DEC In kind - - 700 - - 700 3.4 Threatened Species Hazard Reduction List 1 DEC In kind √ --- - - 3.5DEC informed of relevant planning decisions2 SCC, KMC, DIPNR, RFS- #### # - 4.1 Prepare and distribute annual newsletter 2 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 4.2 Encourage community involvement 2 DEC, SCC, KMC, Mt Kembla - #### # - Environmental Education Centre 4.3Press releases 2 DEC, SCC, KMC - #### # - 5.1 Coordinate investigations into the essential aspects 2 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - of the species ecology/biology 5.2 Investigate basic seed biology 2 DEC In kind √√√√ √ - 6.1 Seed collection from priority sites 2 DEC Unsecured √√√√ √ - 6.2 Long term seed storage 2 DEC In kind 3400 3400 3400 3400 3400 17,000 Annual and total cost Unsecured 15,400 15,400 11,900 - - 42,700 In kind 10,750 7600 8300 6900 6900 40,450 TOTAL 26,150 23,000 20,200 6900 6900 83,150
Costing table explanation: DEC – Dept of Environment and Conservation, DIPNR – Dept of Infrastructure Planning and Natural Resources, KMC – Kiama Municipal Council, RFS – Rural Fire Service, RTA – Roads and Traffic Authority, SCC – Shellharbour City Council. Priority ratings: 1 - Action critical to meeting plan objectives, 2 - Action contributing to meeting plan objectives, 3 – Desirable but not essential action. In kind funds represent the salary component of permanent staff and recurrent resources. Salary for in-kind contributions is calculated at $350 per day, which includes officer salary and on-costs, provision of office space, vehicles, administration support and staff management. Unsecured funds will be sought from sources including DEC annual provisions for the implementation of threatened species programs, the Natural Heritage Trust, Environmental Trust, industry sponsors, the NSW State Biodiversity Program, Threatened Species Network, Threatened Species Appeal and DEC annual operational provisions for implementation of threatened species programs. # - No direct cost (either cost of action is negligible or action is a statutory responsibility of the responsible party), √ - No additional costs (included in the cost of other actions), * - Amount to be determined by the responsible party.
Department of Environment and Conservation Page 25
Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria)
Appendices
Appendix 1: Soil landscape units associated with Zieria granulata Appendix 2: Details of Zieria granulata sites Appendix 3: Species profile and environmental impact assessment guidelines Appendix 4: Threat assessment for Zieria granulata sites Appendix 5: Interim assessment of relative conservation significance for Zieria granulata sites Appendix 6: Site management statement proforma Appendix 7: Photographs Appendix 8: Summary of advice from the NSW Scientific Committee Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) Appendix 1
Appendix 1: Soil Landscape Units associated with Zieria granulata Source: Hazelton 1992
Name Type Description Soils Bombo Erosional Low rolling hills with benched slopes and Shallow (<50 cm) Structured sea cliffs with extensive rock platforms on Loams occur on crests, Bumbo Latite. Relief 40 to 100 m. Slope moderately deep (50 to 100 cm) gradients 15 to 25% with isolated steep Krasnozems occur on upper slopes to 40%. Extensively cleared with slopes and benches. Brown dairying, grazing, hobby farms, recreation Podsolic Soils occur on mid and areas and quarrying of latite the main lower slopes. landuses. Wattamolla Depositional Long gently to moderately inclined Moderately deep (50 to 100 cm) Road sideslopes and undulating to rolling hills Red Podzolic Soils occur on with broad benches on Budgong Sandstone. upper slopes and benches with Relief <200 m. Slope gradients 5 to 15% Yellow Podzolic Soils on mid with isolated steep slope >40%. Extensively and lower slopes. cleared with only scattered stands of remnant forest present. Shellharbour Erosional Low rolling hills with long sideslopes and Deep (>150 cm) Prairie Soils broad drainage plains on Budgong occur on crests and upper Sandstone. Relief 30 to 50 m with slope slopes, Brown Krasnozems on gradients <20%. Extensively cleared with the midslopes and Red Podzolic dairying, horse agistment and urban Soils and Prairie Soils on the development the main landuses. lower slopes and drainage plains. Kiama Erosional Low rolling hills with broad crests and long Deep (>150 cm) Krasnozems convex slopes and steep coastal headlands present on the crests and upper on Blow Hole Latite. Extensive scattered slopes with Prairie Soils on the rock outcrops present on upper slopes. lower slopes. Drainage plains <100 m wide. Relief 40 to 60 m with slope gradients <20%. Extensively cleared with cattle grazing and urban development the main landuses. Cambewarra Erosional Steep to very steep hills with broad colluvial Deep (>200 cm) Red Solonetzic benches on latite. Relief 100 to 300 m. Slope Soils and Krasnozems occur on gradients generally >30% with steep the upper slopes and benches. hillslopes (>50%) containing a talus of latite Lithosols occur on basinite boulders and scattered rock outcrops outcrops. present. Drainage lines are closely spaced and deeply incised. Partially cleared of vegetation with cattle grazing, hobby farms and conservation the main landuses. Jamberoo Residual Rolling latite hills with broad crests and Deep (>150 cm) Krasnozems ridges. Relief 100 to 200 m with slope occur throughout this landscape gradients <25%. Extensively cleared with with Structural Loams localised scattered stands of closed-forest. on Saddleback Mountain. Fountaindale Depositional Low rolling hills with long sideslopes on Moderately deep (50 to 100 cm) Budgong Sandstone in the Jamberoo Valley. Brown Podzolic Soils and Broad drainage plains (<150 m wide) and Yellow Podzolic Soils. narrow to moderately incised drainage lines containing scattered rock outcrops. Relief 40 to 80 m with slope gradients <20%. Extensively cleared with cattle grazing and hobby farming the main landuses Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 1
Name Type Description Soils Albion Park Erosional Short steep upper slopes with long gentle Moderately deep Brown footslopes on Berry formation. Relief is 60 Podzolic Soils on crests, Yellow to 100 m. Slope gradients 5 to 15% on Podzolic Soils on midslopes and footslopes and 15 to 50% on upper slopes. Soloths on footslopes and Mostly cleared with some stands of tall open drainage lines. forest. Mangrove* Estuarine Vegetated tidal flats in estuarine areas on Deep (>150 cm) Siliceous Creek Holocene sediments. Relief <3 m. Slopes Sands, Calcareous Sands and >3%. Solonchaks occur on Mangrove Flats with Humic Grey Soils and Solonchaks on saltmarsh Shoalhaven* Fluvial Level to gently undulating riverbed and Moderately deep (50 to 100 cm) banks, active floodplain with levees and Prairie Soils on levees; Red backwater swamps on alluvium. Flat to Earths and Yellow and Red gently undulating terrace surfaces of the Podzolics Soils on terraces; and Shoalhaven River. Relief <5 m with slope Alluvial Soils and Gleyed gradients <3%. Podzolic Soils on the floodplain. * The occurrence of Zieria granulata sites within the Mangrove Creek and Shoalhaven soil landscape units is considered to be highly unlikely. Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Appendix 2: Details of Zieria granulata sites Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Code Location Source Count LGA Tenure Zoning Geology Soil Relief Vegetation Zg1 Stoney Range Robinson 1999 92 Shellharbour SCC 2(e) Psg sh 70 ISR Zg2 Elisabeth Browlee Reserve Robinson 2001 3 Shellharbour SCC 6(a) Psgb ap 60 ISR Zg3 Hazleton Creek Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour SCC 2(e) Psgb ap 50 N/R Zg4a Regal Heights Mills & Jakeman 1993 >600 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 100 RGF Zg4b Regal Heights G. Daly pers. comm. - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 90 RGF Zg4c Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 90 RGF Zg4d Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 100 RGF Zg4e Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 90 RGF Zg4f Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 110 RGF Zg4g Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 90 RGF Zg4h Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 110 RGF Zg4I Regal Heights Robinson 2001 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 100 ISR Zg5 SW Regal Heights Mills & Jakeman 1993 12 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 80 RGF Zg6 Stockyard Mountain Bremner pers. comm. 56 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgc ca 270 HBS Zg7 Mount Terry 1 G. Daly pers. comm. 21 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psg bo 110 N/R Zg8 Mount Terry 2 G. Daly pers. comm. 2 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 110 N/R Zg9 Wentworth Hills 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 See Zg14 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 100 RGF Zg10 Wentworth Hills 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 See Zg14 Shellharbour Private 7(d) Psgb bo 110 RGF Zg11a Actephila Gully 1 Bremner pers. comm. 12 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 70 PTS Zg11b Actephila Gully 1 Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 60 RGF Zg11c Actephila Gully 1 Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 60 ISR Zg12a Actephila Gully 2 Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 100 PTS Zg12b Actephila Gully 2 Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 100 RGF Zg13 Wentworth Hills 3 QEM 1994 1 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 150 ISR Zg14 Eastern Ridge 1 QEM 1994 1000s Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 130 PTS Zg15 Eastern Ridge 2 QEM 1994 see Zg14 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 110 PTS Zg16 Eastern Ridge 3 QEM 1994 see Zg14 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 110 PTS Zg17a Southern Ridge 1 QEM 1994 see Zg20 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 120 PTS Zg17b Southern Ridge 1 QEM 1994 see Zg20 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 130 PTS Zg17c Southern Ridge 1 QEM 1994 see Zg20 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 140 RGF Zg18 Southern Ridge 2 QEM 1994 see Zg20 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 120 PTS Zg19 Southern Ridge 3 QEM 1994 see Zg20 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 110 PTS Zg20 Locking Hill Mills & Jakeman 1993 1000s Shellharbour Crown 4(c) Psgb bo 140 PTS Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Code Location Source Count LGA Tenure Zoning Geology Soil Relief Vegetation Zg21a Gooseberry Hill 1 Robinson 1999 108 Shellharbour Crown 4(c) Psgb bo 140 PTS Zg21b Gooseberry Hill 1 Corkery & Co. 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 130 PTS Zg22 Shellcove Bremner pers. comm. >200 Shellharbour SCC 2(f) Psgb sh 20 ISR Zg23a Killalea 1 Mills 1987 50 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 30 PTS Zg23b Killalea 1 Mills 1987 100 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 40 PTS Zg23c Killalea 1 Atlas (1987) - Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 40 PTS Zg24a Killalea 2 Mills 1987 20 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 20 ISR Zg24b Killalea 2 Mills 1987 10 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 30 ISR Zg24c Killalea 2 Mills 1987 4 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 40 ISR Zg25a Killalea 3 Atlas (1987) - Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 50 ISR Zg25b Killalea 3 Mills 1987 40 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 30 ISR Zg26a Killalea 4 Mills 1987 100 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 30 ISR Zg26b Killalea 4 Mills 1987 20 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 30 ISR Zg26c Killalea 4 Mills 1987 4 Shellharbour Crown (KSPT) 7(f2) Psgb bo 40 ISR Zg27 Bass Point 1 Robinson 1999 3 Shellharbour Crown (SCC) 7(f2) T-Qbs bo 20 TTS Zg28 Bass Point 2 Bremner pers. comm. 2 Shellharbour Crown (SCC) 7(f2) T-Qbs bo 20 BBF Zg29 Minnamurra Rainforest 1 Atlas (1953) - Kiama NPWS 8(a) Pi ca 310 N/R Zg30 Minnamurra Rainforest 2 Robinson pers. comm. 10 Kiama NPWS 8(a) Pi ca 260 IT Zg31 Jamberoo Road 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 10 Kiama KMC/freehold 1(a) Psgb sh 70 TW Zg32 Jamberoo Road 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 7 Kiama KMC/freehold 1(a) Psg fo 60 TW Zg33 Flying Fox North 1 Robinson 1999 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg sh 130 N/R Zg34 Flying Fox North 2 Bremner pers. comm. - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg bo 120 PTS Zg35a Flying Fox North 3 Bremner pers. comm. 6 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg sh 140 PTS Zg35b Flying Fox North 3 Bremner pers. comm. 12 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg sh 140 PTS Zg36 Flying Fox North 4 Bremner pers. comm. 11 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg bo 130 RGF Zg37 Gooseberry Hill 3 Corkery & Co. 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 150 N/R Zg38 Flying Fox South 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 10 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg sh 140 PTS Zg39a Flying Fox South 3 Bremner pers. comm. - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg bo 130 PTS Zg39b Flying Fox South 3 Bremner pers. comm. - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psg sh 140 PTS Zg39c Flying Fox South 3 Bremner pers. comm. >300 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb sh 130 PTS Zg40 Flying Fox South 4 G. Daly pers. comm. 30 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 90 N/R Zg41 Flying Fox South 2 Robinson 1999 - Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 90 N/R Zg42 Flying Fox South 5 Robinson 1999 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psg bo 130 N/R Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Code Location Source Count LGA Tenure Zoning Geology Soil Relief Vegetation Zg43a Minnamurra Lane G. Daly pers. comm. 1 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg43b Minnamurra Lane G. Daly pers. comm. 1 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 80 N/R Zg44 SE Jamberoo Robinson 1999 30 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 80 N/R Zg45a Wallaby Hill Road 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama KMC/freehold 7(e) Psgb bo 110 RS Zg45b Wallaby Hill Road 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 >200 Kiama KMC/freehold 7(e) Psgb bo 130 RS Zg46 Wallaby Hill Road 3 Mills & Jakeman 1993 >200 Kiama KMC/freehold 7(e) Psgb bo 160 PTS Zg47 Wallaby Hill Road 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 >50 Kiama KMC/freehold 7(e) Psgb bo 180 RS Zg48 Minnamurra Headland Robinson 1999 - Kiama KMC 6(a) Psgb bo 30 N/R Zg49 Minnamurra Floodplain Robinson 1999 2 Shellharbour Freehold 7(a) Qa mc 10 BF Zg50 Minnamurra Bends Robinson 1999 2 Kiama RTA 2(a)? Psgb bo 10 N/R Zg51a Turpentine Reserve Robinson 1999 12 Kiama KMC 6(a) Psgb bo 30 GIF Zg51b Turpentine Reserve Robinson 1999 2 Kiama RTA 7(d) Psgb bo 60 ISR Zg52a Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 12 Kiama RTA art. road Qt bo 50 GIF Zg52b Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 2 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 30 ISR Zg52c Tabbagong Forest 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 5 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 10 RS Zg52d Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 24 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 60 GIF Zg52e Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 3 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 60 GIF Zg52f Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 4 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 60 GIF Zg52g Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 33 Kiama RTA 7(d) Qt bo 70 GIF Zg52h Tabbagong Forest 1 Robinson 1999 17 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 30 ISR Zg53 Tabbagong Forest 2 Robinson 1999 3 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 50 HBS Zg54a Tabbagong Forest 3 Robinson 1999 5 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 80 GIF Zg54b Tabbagong Forest 3 Robinson 1999 5 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 80 GIF Zg54c Tabbagong Forest 3 Robinson 1999 186 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 90 ISR Zg55a Tabbagong Forest 4 Robinson 1999 11 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 70 HBS Zg55b Tabbagong Forest 4 Robinson 1999 54 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Qt bo 60 GIF Zg55c Tabbagong Forest 4 Robinson 1999 34 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 80 ISR Zg56a Bombo 1 KM&A 2000b 12 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 60 RS Zg56b Bombo 1 KM&A 2000b 9 Kiama Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 60 RS Zg56c Bombo 1 KM&A 2000b 2 Kiama Freehold 2(a) Psgb bo 50 RS Zg56d Bombo 1 KM&A 2000b 139 Kiama Freehold 2(a) Psgb bo 40 ISR Zg57 Bombo 2 KM&A 2000b 16 Kiama Freehold 2(a) Psgb bo 50 ISR Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Code Location Source Count LGA Tenure Zoning Geology Soil Relief Vegetation Zg58 Kiama Aquatic Centre Mills & Jakeman 1993 >170 Kiama KMC 6(a) Psg bo 40 ISR Zg59 Stead Reserve Mills & Jakeman 1993 >30 Kiama KMC 6(a) Psgb ka 30 ISR Zg60a Willow Gully Mulvaney pers. comm. 160 Kiama KMC 2(a) Psgb bo 60 RS Zg60b Willow Gully Mulvaney pers. comm. 810 Kiama KMC 2(a) Psgb bo 50 IT Zg60c Willow Gully Mulvaney pers. comm. 130 Kiama Freehold 2(a) Psgb bo 50 ISR Zg61a Spring Creek 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 50 N/R Zg61b Spring Creek 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psg bo 40 N/R Zg61c Spring Creek 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 40 N/R Zg62 Spring Creek 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg63 Spring Creek 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg64 Long Brush Road Mills & Jakeman 1993 15 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 100 RS Zg65a West Kiama Bremner pers. comm. 30 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgb ka 70 ISR Zg65b West Kiama Bremner pers. comm. 20 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgb ka 70 RS Zg65c West Kiama Bremner pers. comm. 10 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgb ka 70 RS Zg66a Old Saddleback Road KMC 2001 40 Kiama KMC 7(e) Psgb bo 140 RS Zg66b Old Saddleback Road KMC 2001 - Kiama KMC 7(e) Psgb bo 150 RS Zg66c Old Saddleback Road KMC 2001 - Kiama KMC 7(e) Psgb bo 160 RS Zg67 Saddleback Mountain Road KMC 2001 1 Kiama KMC 7(e) Psgb bo 160 RS Zg68 Bonaira Native Gardens Atlas (1988) - Kiama KMC 6(a) Psgh ka 10 N/R Zg69 Easts Beach Robinson 1999 27 Kiama Freehold 2(a) Psgh ka 30 N/R Zg70 Boona Ridge Daly pers. comm. 3 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgb wt 170 N/R Zg71 Jerrara Dam 1 Mills 1983 1 Kiama KMC 1(a) Qa bo 30 ISR Zg72a Jerrara Dam 2 Mills 1983 13 Kiama KMC 1(a) Qa bo 50 ISR Zg72b Jerrara Dam 2 Bremner pers. comm. 48 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 50 ISR Zg72c Jerrara Dam 2 Bremner pers. comm. 132 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 60 ISR Zg73 Jerrara Dam 3 Mills 1983 16 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 40 N/R Zg74 Jerrara Dam 4 Mills 1983 26 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg75a Jerrara Dam 5 Mills 1983 13 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg75b Jerrara Dam 5 Mills & Jakeman 1993 60 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 80 RS Zg76a Mount Brandon Road 1 Bremner pers. comm. 150 Kiama KMC/freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 120 RS Zg76b Mount Brandon Road 1 pers obs 107 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 120 RS Zg76c Mount Brandon Road 1 pers obs 10 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 130 RS Zg77 Saddleback West Mills & Jakeman 1993 1 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Pi ja 460 N/R Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2
Code Location Source Count LGA Tenure Zoning Geology Soil Relief Vegetation Zg78 Saddleback Mountain Bremner pers. comm. 4 Kiama Crown (KMC) 7(e) Sa ja 510 N/R Zg79 Saddleback Lookout Bremner pers. comm. 9 Kiama Crown (KMC) 7(e) Bb ja 500 N/R Zg80 Saddleback East 1 Mills & Jakeman 1993 64 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgs ca 340 RS Zg81 Saddleback Road Mills & Jakeman 1993 5 Kiama KMC 7(e) Psg ja 340 RS Zg82a Saddleback East 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psg ca 280 RS Zg82b Saddleback East 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psg ca 310 RS Zg83 Lower Foxground Atlas (1980) - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Qa sf 60 N/R Zg84 Upper Foxground Mills & Jakeman 1993 2 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Pi ca 400 BF Zg85 Upper Irwins Creek Mills & Jakeman 1993 10 to 50 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Ib ja 480 ISR Zg86 West of Broughton Village Mills & Jakeman 1993 40 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psg wt 90 RS Zg87 Toolijooa 1 Robinson 1999 >1000 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb wt 50 ISR Zg88a Toolijooa 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb wt 70 ISR Zg88b Toolijooa 2 Mills & Jakeman 1993 - Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb wt 100 ISR Zg88c Toolijooa 2 Robinson 1999 >1000 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb wt 110 ISR Zg89a Toolijooa 3 Bremner pers. comm. 347 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb ka 110 IT Zg89b Toolijooa 3 Lembit pers. comm. 8 Kiama Freehold 1(a) Psgb ka 120 N/R Zg90 Mount Brandon Road 2 pers obs 26 Kiama KMC 1(a) Psgb bo 100 RS Zg91 Whispering Gallery Mills & Jakeman 1993 20 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 50 ISR Zg92 Dunmore Mills & Jakeman 1993 50-100 Shellharbour Freehold 1(a) Psgb bo 60 RGF Zg93a Gooseberry Hill 2 Corkery & Co. 2003 92 Shellharbour Freehold 4(c) Psgb bo 110 N/R Zg93b Gooseberry Hill 2 Corkery & Co. 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 80 N/R Zg94 North Kiama Park K. Glaister pers. comm. 7 Kiama Crown (KMC) 6(a) Psg bo 30 N/R Zg95 Mount Pleasant Ridge R. Lembit pers. comm. 80 Kiama Freehold 7(e) Psgb bo 160 N/R Zg96 Croom Road R. Lembit pers. comm. 20 Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psg bo 30 N/R Zg97a Actephila Ridge Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 90 PTS Zg97b Actephila Ridge Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 70 N/R Zg97c Actephila Ridge Connell Wagner 2003 - Shellharbour Freehold 7(d) Psgb bo 60 N/R Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 2 Key to Table: Geology Soil Landscape Unit Vegetation Tenure Qa Quaternary Alluvium Bo Bombo N/R Not recorded SCC Shellharbour City Council Qt Quaternary Talus Wt Wattamolla Road PTS Paperbark Tall Shrubland KMC Kiama Municipal Council Qbs Quaternary Sands Sh Shellharbour ISR Illawarra Subtropical Rainforest Crown Crown Land Pi Illawarra Coal Measures Ka Kiama RS Regenerating Scrub KSPT Killalea State Park Trust Psg Budgong Sandstone Ca Cambewarra RGF Red Gum Forest RTA Roads & Traffic Authority Psgb Bumbo Latite Ja Jamberoo GIF Grey Ironbark Forest Zoning Psgs Saddleback Latite Ap Albion Park HBS Hop Bush Scrub 1(a) Rural Psgc Cambewarra Latite Fo Fountaindale IT Ironwood Thicket 2(a)/2(f) Residential Psgh Blowhole Latite Mc Mangrove Creek TW Turpentine Woodland 4(c) Extractive industry Sa Saddleback Mountain Agglomerate Sf Shoalhaven BF Bangalay Forest 7(e)/7(d)/7(f2) Environmental protection Bb Bong Bong Basalt TTS Tea Tree Scrub 6(a) Open space Ib Irwins Creek Breccia BBF Brown Barrel Forest 8(a) National Park Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 3
Appendix 3: Species profile and environmental impact assessment guidelines THREATENED SPECIES INFORMATION Zieria granulata C. Moore ex Benth. Common Name: Illawarra Zieria
Conservation Status Distribution Zieria granulata is listed as an endangered Z. granulata is restricted to the Illawarra species on Schedule 1 of the NSW Threatened region, south of Sydney, where it is recorded Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and from 26 populations (or 97 fragmented sites). as an endangered species under the The species primarily occupies the coastal Commonwealth Environment Protection and lowlands between Oak Flats and Toolijooa in Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC the local government areas of Shellharbour and Act). Kiama. This is a range of approximately 22 kilometres (DEC 2005). A disjunct site occurs at Kanahooka in Wollongong local government area. This site occurs on fill material derived from Bumbo Latite and it appears that Z. granulata propagules were introduced to the site via this material (Mills & Jakeman 1993; Robinson 1999).
Recorded occurrences in conservation reserves Z. granulata has been recorded from one Photo: A. Bofeldt conservation reserve, Budderoo National Park. Description Z. granulata is a tall bushy shrub or small tree Habitat that can grow to six metres. The entire plant is The preferred landform of Z. granulata is dry densely covered with glandular tubercles ridge tops and rocky outcrops with shallow, (small wart-like outgrowths) which give the volcanic soils (DEC 2005). The species is less leaves a strong aroma when crushed. Leaves frequently found on the moist slopes of the are palmately trifoliate (three-fingered), Illawarra escarpment and in low-lying areas on opposite and petiolate. The central leaflet is Quaternary sediments (DEC 2005). linear, 19.5 to 42.5 mm long, 0.5 to 1.5 mm broad with an obtuse (blunt) apex. Leaf margins are revolute (downward curved) with a dull green upper surface and whitish lower surface. The inflorescence is axillary, shorter than the leaves and 50 to 180 flowered. Flowers are white, four petalled, and 3.5 to 4.5 mm in diameter. The fruit is a dry, light brown, four-chambered capsule. Seeds are dark reddish-brown, and have an elaiosome (ant attracting appendage) (Armstrong 2002; M. Robinson, pers. comm.). Photo: M. Bremner/DEC The vast majority of Z. granulata sites occur on Bumbo Latite although the species has been recorded growing on a variety of substrates (DEC 2005). The altitudinal range of the January 2005 species is five to 510 metres although most occurring within that study area (Sharma & sites occur below 150 metres (DEC 2005). Young 2000). Three vegetation types are considered to Nectar seeking flies (viz. Biblio imitator, provide ‘typical’ natural habitat for the species; Biblionidae; Callophora hilli, Calliphoridae) Melaleuca armillaris scrub to tall shrubland, have been observed on Z. granulata flowers subtropical rainforest, and Eucalyptus and appear to be effective pollen vectors tereticornis woodland to open forest. These (Armstrong 2002). These flies are considered vegetation types are listed as endangered to be generalist and accidental pollinators, they ecological communities on Schedule 1 of the are strong fliers and are capable of traversing TSC Act, where they are named Melaleuca open spaces (Robinson 1999). An Eastern armillaris Tall Shrubland, Illawarra Spinebill (Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris) has Subtropical Rainforest and Illawarra Lowlands also been observed probing the flowers of Z. Grassy Woodland respectively (DEC 2005). granulata (Robinson 1999). DEC (2005) states that the species has also Seed dispersal in Zieria spp. is by forcible been recorded in the following vegetation ejection from the mature coccus (fruit) types: (Armstrong 2002). The presence of an elaiosome (ant-attracting appendage) on the • Backhousia myrtifolia (Ironwood) low seed indicates that secondary dispersal by ants closed forest; (termed myrmecochory) may also occur • Eucalyptus paniculata (Grey Ironbark) (Robinson 1999). It appears likely that some open forest; form of dormancy mechanism exists for Z. • Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustifolia (Sticky granulata seed and that a disturbance related Hop Bush) scrub to open scrub; trigger is required to break this dormancy • Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine) (DEC 2005). However, low levels of seedling woodland; recruitment have been observed in the inter- • Eucalyptus botryoides (Bangalay) forest; disturbance period (A. Bofeldt, Wollongong • Leptospermum laevigatum (Coastal Tea- Botanic Gardens, pers. comm.). There is no tree) open scrub; and published information about the longevity and • Eucalyptus fastigata (Brown Barrel) forest. viability of Z. granulata seed.
Z. granulata has been observed to coppice Much of the natural habitat of Z. granulata has been removed and many sites now occupy road (reshoot from the base of mature stems) in verges and paddock edges (Mills & Jakeman response to physical disturbance, including 1993). grazing and slashing. It is unknown at what age the species is capable of this (DEC 2005). Ecology The response of the species to fire has not been observed. As vegetative reproduction from Armstrong (2002) states that the flowering sub-surface epicormic buds (suckering) has not period of Z. granulata is from late spring to been reported for Z. granulata, it is considered summer, although Robinson (1999) has unlikely that the species would survive a fire of observed the species flowering in early spring. sufficient intensity to destroy the above ground It is unknown at what age the species is parts of the plant (DEC 2005). capable of flowering or whether individuals flower regularly or sporadically. The species failed to flower at many sites during the Threats drought of 2002/2003 (DEC 2005). Extensive clearing of the Illawarra lowlands Zieria flowers are morphologically since European settlement has destroyed much hermaphrodite, having both male and female of the natural habitat of Z. granulata and organs present in each flower (Armstrong remaining habitat is limited and highly 2002). It is unknown whether Z. granulata is fragmented. The majority of Z. granulata sites capable of self-pollination. A genetic study of are small, isolated and occupy freehold land Z. granulata plants at Tabbagong Forest and that may be subject to competing landuses Bombo found that a low level of genetic (DEC 2005). diversity was present, indicating that The main threat to the species is the further significant cross-pollination was likely to be loss of habitat as a result of quarrying, agricultural clearing, residential development January 2005 and road construction. Agricultural activities • Critical habitat declared under the TSC Act. (including grazing and trampling by livestock, Appropriate threat and habitat management vegetation slashing and herbicide spraying), practices include bush regeneration to restore roadside and dry stone wall maintenance and maintain suitable habitat and fencing to activities, weed invasion and rubbish dumping restrict access by livestock and machinery. also threaten Z. granulata at a number of sites (DEC 2005). Initiatives to raise awareness of the species in land managers and field workers are required Management to ensure that the species is not inadvertently Future management must aim to increase the damaged during road maintenance and weed level of legislative protection afforded land control activities. upon which the species occurs. This can be Remnant vegetation containing Z. granulata facilitated on public and private land through a should also be managed to prevent frequent range of mechanisms including: burning. • Conservation covenants and agreements under the TSC Act, the National Parks & Recovery Plans Wildlife Act 1974, and the Conveyancing A recovery plan for the species was approved Act 1919; in January 2005. • Environmental Planning Instruments prepared under Part 3 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979; and
For Further Information contact Threatened Species Unit, Metropolitan Region, Environment Protection and Regulation Division, Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), PO Box 1967, Hurstville NSW 2220 Phone 02 9585 6678. www.npws.nsw.gov.au
References Armstrong J.A. (2002) The genus Zieria (Rutaceae): a systematic and evolutionary study. Australian Systematic Botany Vol. 15 (3): 277 – 463. Mills K. & Jakeman J. (1993) Survey of the Rare Plant Species Zieria granulata (RUTACEAE) Illawarra Region, New South Wales. Unpublished report prepared for Kiama Municipal Council. DEC (2005) Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria) Recovery Plan. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville NSW Robinson M.V. (1999) Section 5A Assessment of the Endangered Zieria granulata at the proposed North Kiama By-pass. Unpublished report for the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER The NSW Department of Environment and Conservation and the editor expressly disclaim all liability and responsibility to any person, whether a purchaser or reader of this document or not, in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any person in reliance upon the contents of this document although every effort has been made to ensure that the information presented in this document is accurate and up to date.
January 2005 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES
Zieria granulata (F. Muell.) C. Moore ex Benth
Common name: Illawarra Zieria The following information is provided to assist recruitment, gene flow and the overall health authors of Species Impact Statements, of the population will be effected. development and activity proponents, and • Loss and fragmentation of habitat determining and consent authorities, who are required to prepare or review assessments of As the breeding system of Z. granulata is not likely impacts on threatened species pursuant understood, the effects of loss and to the provisions of the Environmental fragmentation of its habitat are not known. Planning and Assessment Act 1979. These Total destruction of habitat will place a local guidelines should be read in conjunction with population at risk of extinction. the NPWS Information Circular No. 2: • Modification of habitat Threatened Species Assessment under the EP&A Act: The ‘8 Part Test’ of Significance Urban development in close proximity to Z. (November 1996). granulata sites is likely to cause modification of habitat through altered hydrological Survey conditions and soil pH, soil nutrification, weed invasion, potential introduction of plant Survey for Zieria granulata may be pathogens and altered fire frequency. undertaken at any time of the year. A Subsequent increases in pedestrian and/or combination of leaf characteristics and habit vehicular traffic through sites may result in should enable the species to be identified in the trampling, soil compaction, soil erosion and absence of flowers. The species is most readily rubbish dumping. observed however during its flowering season when plants are covered in a dense mass of Other proposals that result in the regular white flowers. slashing, grazing, herbicide spraying or burning of Z. granulata habitat are also likely Survey should not necessarily be confined to to result in the modification of that habitat. areas of remnant native vegetation. Z. granulata plants have been recorded growing • Damage to the soil seedbank in highly disturbed environments including Disturbances that will destroy or prevent along roadsides and fencelines, amongst germination of Z. granulata seed include regrowth in cleared paddocks and in dense rubbish dumping, the removal of leaf litter and Lantana thickets. topsoil, and spraying with residual herbicides Where new sites are located, site details that are capable of killing seeds in the soil. including plant numbers, habitat and location Frequent disturbances (from slashing, grazing, should be recorded and forwarded to the DEC. herbicide spraying or burning for example) may prevent the soil seed bank of the species Life cycle of the species from being recharged. The ecology of Z. granulata is described in the • Altered fire regimes draft recovery plan and summarised in the Proposals that result in the frequent burning (ie species profile. Proposals that are likely to successive fires <10 years apart) of sites are impact upon the life cycle of the species considered likely to impact upon recruitment include those that contribute to the following: of the species. Recommended fire frequencies • Loss of individuals for the species are provided in the draft recovery plan (DEC 2005). The significance of a particular activity that physically destroys individual plants will require an examination of the number of plants to be destroyed in relation to the size of the population and a discussion of how January 2005 Isolation/fragmentation Threatening processes Z. granulata habitat has been fragmented by There are five key threatening processes listed habitat clearance for agriculture, quarrying, in Schedule 3 of the NSW Threatened Species residential development and road construction Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) that are throughout its range. potentially relevant to Z. granulata. These are: The distance between populations of Z. • Anthropogenic climate change; granulata that will create genetic isolation is • Clearing of native vegetation; unknown as the species’ pollen vectors are • Invasion of native plant communities by unknown. Seed dispersal is localised so bitou bush and boneseed; interaction via this mechanism is unlikely. • Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses; and The clearing of interconnected or proximate • High frequency fire resulting in the areas of habitat for the species (or its pollen disruption of life cycle processes in plants vectors) is clearly undesirable as this may and animals and the loss of vegetation expose populations to an increased risk of structure and composition. genetic isolation and subsequent decline.
Other threatening processes include slashing Regional distribution of the habitat and herbicide spraying to maintain paddocks and road verges, grazing and trampling by The known distribution of Z. granulata is livestock, weed invasion, rubbish dumping confined to the Sydney Basin Bioregion as (including green waste, household rubbish and defined in the IBRA (Thackway & Cresswell construction materials) and the modification of 1995). habitat associated with urban development. Limit of known distribution Viable population of the species The known distribution of Z. granulata The viable population size for Z. granulata is extends from Oak Flats in the north to unknown. In the absence of a detailed Toolijooa in the south. The western limit of assessment demonstrating otherwise, all distribution follows the upper slopes of the populations should be assumed to be viable. Illawarra escarpment. An extant population of the species occurs at A significant area of habitat Kanahooka, eight kilometres north of Oak Assessment of habitat significance for Z. Flats. This population is likely to have been granulata requires consideration of the transported to the site via propagules contained following: in fill material (Mills & Jakeman 1993; Robinson 1999). • The number of plants that are present, including consideration of the soil seed Adequacy of representation in bank; conservation reserves or other similar • The proportion of the local population that protected areas is present at the site; • The location of the site in relation to the Z. granulata is not considered to be adequately current distributional limits of the species; represented in conservation reserves. • The size, condition and connective importance of the habitat; Critical habitat • The uniqueness of the habitat; and Critical habitat has not been declared for Z. • The management potential of site granulata. including the likelihood of ameliorating existing threatening processes. The DEC considers all viable populations as occupying a significant area of habitat until such times as adequate and representative examples are conserved across the species’ range.
January 2005
For Further Information contact Threatened Species Unit, Metropolitan Region, Environment Protection and Regulation Division, Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), PO Box 1967, Hurstville NSW 2220. Phone 02 9585 6678. www.npws.nsw.gov.au
References
Thackway, R. & Cresswell, I.D. (1995). An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia: A Framework for Setting Priorities in the National Reserves System Cooperative Program. Version 4.0. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra. Mills, K. and Jakeman, J. (1993) Survey of the rare plant species Zieria granulata (Rutaceae) Illawarra Region, New South Wales. Unpublished report prepared for Kiama Municipal Council. Robinson M.V. (1999) Section 5A Assessment of the Endangered Zieria granulata at the proposed North Kiama By-pass. Unpublished report for the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER The NSW Department of Environment and Conservation and the editor expressly disclaim all liability and responsibility to any person, whether a purchaser or reader of this document or not, in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any person in reliance upon the contents of this document although every effort has been made to ensure that the information presented in this document is accurate and up to date.
January 2005 Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 4
Appendix 4: Threat assessment for Zieria granulata sites
The following threat assessment for Z. granulata sites has been undertaken to provide direction to decision makers as to where the recovery effort for the species will be most effectively applied. The assessment is based primarily on the zoning and tenure of sites although adjustments have been made where site specific knowledge, regarding sites that are subject to conservation agreements for example, allows. The assessment is based on data available in December 2003.
For this assessment, threats have been categorised into the following classes developed by Keith et al. (1997):
• Class I threats are processes capable of causing a sudden, substantial and irreversible loss of individuals or habitat. An example is vegetation clearance followed by land-use change. • Class II threats are processes capable of causing gradual, substantial and possibly irreversible loss of individuals or habitat. Examples include habitat degradation due to overgrazing or weed invasion. These processes may be reversible but mitigation may be technically difficult or expensive to achieve.
High risk
High risk sites are those sites that are considered to be at greatest risk from Class I threats. This category contains all sites that are presently zoned for mineral extraction or residential development. It also includes sites that are located in areas that have been identified as containing state significant mineral resources. Recovery actions at high risk sites should focus on reducing the risk from Class I threats. This can be achieved by increasing the level of legislative protection afforded these sites through mechanisms including the negotiation of conservation agreements and in the preparation of environmental planning instruments. The implementation of on-ground threat abatement works at high risk sites is not recommended until the risk from Class 1 threats is reduced.
Site Code Location LGA Count Zoning Tenure Zg3 Hazleton Creek Shellharbour 2(e) SCC Zg9 Wentworth Hills 1 Shellharbour See Zg14 7(d) Freehold Zg10 Wentworth Hills 2 Shellharbour See Zg14 7(d) Freehold Zg11 Actephila Gully 1 Shellharbour >12 7(d) Freehold Zg12 Actephila Gully 2 Shellharbour - 7(d) Freehold Zg13 Wentworth Hills 3 Shellharbour 1 4(c) Freehold Zg14 Eastern Ridge 1 Shellharbour 1000s 4(c) Freehold Zg15 Eastern Ridge 2 Shellharbour See Zg14 4(c) Freehold Zg16 Eastern Ridge 3 Shellharbour See Zg14 4(c) Freehold Zg17 Southern Ridge 1 Shellharbour See Zg20 4(c) Freehold Zg18 Southern Ridge 2 Shellharbour See Zg20 4(c) Freehold Zg19 Southern Ridge 3 Shellharbour See Zg20 7(d) Freehold Zg20 Locking Hill Shellharbour 1000s 4(c) Crown Zg21 Gooseberry Hill 1 Shellharbour 108 4(c) Crown Zg34 Flying Fox North 2 Shellharbour - 1(a) Freehold Zg35 Flying Fox North 3 Shellharbour 18 1(a) Freehold Zg36 Flying Fox North 4 Shellharbour 11 1(a) Freehold Zg37 Flying Fox North 5 Shellharbour - 1(a) Freehold Zg40 Flying Fox South 4 Shellharbour 30 7(d) Freehold Zg41 Flying Fox South 2 Shellharbour - 1(a) Freehold Zg50 Minnamurra Bends Kiama 2 2(a) RTA Zg56 Bombo 1 Kiama 162 7(d)/2(a) Freehold Zg57 Bombo 2 Kiama 16 2(a) Freehold Zg60 Willow Gully Kiama 1100 2(a) KMC/Freehold Zg69 Easts Beach Kiama 27 2(a) Freehold Zg92 Dunmore Shellharbour 50 1(a) Freehold Zg93 Gooseberry Hill 2 Shellharbour - 7(d) Freehold Zg97 Actephila Ridge Shellharbour - 7(d) Freehold Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 4
Moderate risk
Moderate risk sites are those sites that are considered to be at a low to moderate risk of Class I threats and are primarily at risk from Class II threats. This category contains sites that are zoned rural and which occur outside areas that have been identified as containing state significant mineral resources. It also contains sites that are zoned for environmental protection but are not located within crown reserves, council reserves or national parks.
Recovery actions at these sites should focus on reducing the risk from Class I threats. This can be achieved by increasing the level of legislative protection afforded these sites through mechanisms including the negotiation of conservation agreements and in the preparation of environmental planning instruments. Actions should also aim to raise the awareness of landholders to encourage land-use change and prevent inadvertent damage to the species. On-ground threat abatement works should be implemented where the landholder indicates a desire to assist in the recovery program.
Site Code Location LGA Count Zoning Tenure Zg4 Regal Heights Shellharbour 600 1(a)/7(d) Freehold Zg5 SW Regal Heights Shellharbour 12 1(a) Freehold Zg6 Stockyard Mountain Shellharbour 56 1(a) Freehold Zg7 Mount Terry 1 Shellharbour 21 7(d) Freehold Zg8 Mount Terry 2 Shellharbour 2 7(d) Freehold Zg31 Jamberoo Road 1 Kiama 10 1(a) Freehold Zg32 Jamberoo Road 2 Kiama 7 1(a) KMC Zg33 Flying Fox North 1 Shellharbour - 1(a) Freehold Zg38 Flying Fox South 1 Shellharbour 10 1(a) Freehold Zg39 Flying Fox South 3 Shellharbour >300 1(a) Freehold Zg42 Flying Fox South 5 Kiama - 1(a) Freehold Zg43 Minnamurra Lane Kiama 2 1(a) Freehold Zg44 SE Jamberoo Kiama 30 1(a) Freehold Zg45 Wallaby Hill Road 1 Kiama >200 7(e) KMC Zg46 Wallaby Hill Road 3 Kiama >200 7(e) KMC Zg47 Wallaby Hill Road 2 Kiama >50 7(e) KMC Zg49 Minnamurra Floodplain Shellharbour 2 7(a) Freehold Zg52 Tabbagong Forest 1 Kiama 100 7(d) Freehold/RTA Zg53 Tabbagong Forest 2 Kiama 3 7(d) Freehold Zg54 Tabbagong Forest 3 Kiama 196 7(d) Freehold Zg55 Tabbagong Forest 4 Kiama 99 7(d) Freehold Zg61 Spring Creek 1 Kiama - 1(a) Freehold Zg62 Spring Creek 2 Kiama - 1(a) Freehold Zg63 Spring Creek 2 Kiama - 1(a) Freehold Zg64 Long Brush Road Kiama 15 1(a) KMC Zg65 West Kiama Kiama 60 7(e) Freehold Zg66 Old Saddleback Road Kiama >40 7(e) KMC Zg67 Saddleback Mountain Road Kiama 1 7(e) KMC Zg70 Boona Ridge Kiama 3 7(e) Freehold Zg76 Mount Brandon Road 1 Kiama 267 1(a) KMC Zg77 Saddleback West Kiama 1 7(e) Freehold Zg78 Saddleback Mountain Kiama 4 7(e) Crown (KMC) Zg79 Saddleback Lookout Kiama 9 7(e) Crown (KMC) Zg80 Saddleback East 1 Kiama 64 7(e) Freehold Zg81 Saddleback Road Kiama 5 7(e) KMC Zg82 Saddleback East 2 Kiama - 7(e) Freehold Zg83 Lower Foxground Kiama - 1(a) Freehold
Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 4
Site Code Location LGA Count Zoning Tenure Zg85 Upper Irwins Creek Kiama >10 7(e) Freehold Zg86 West of Broughton Village Kiama 40 1(a) Freehold Zg87 Toolijooa 1 Kiama >1000 1(a) Freehold Zg88 Toolijooa 2 Kiama >1000 1(a) Freehold Zg90 Mount Brandon Road 2 Kiama 26 1(a) KMC Zg91 Whispering Gallery Shellharbour 20 7(d) Freehold Zg95 Mt Pleasant Ridge Kiama 80 1(a) Freehold Zg96 Croom Road Shellharbour 20 7(d) Freehold
Low risk
Low risk sites are those sites that are considered to be primarily at risk from Class II threats. This category includes sites that are located in national parks, crown reserves, or council reserves. It also includes privately owned lands that are subject to Voluntary Conservation Agreements (VCAs) under the National Parks & Wildlife 1974 or Registered Property Agreements (RPAs) under the Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997. Recovery actions at these sites should focus on addressing the Class II threats through liaison with landholders and the implementation of on-ground threat abatement works in accordance with plans of management and site management statements.
Site Code Location LGA Count Zoning Tenure Zg1 Stoney Range Shellharbour 92 2(e) Freehold/SCC Zg2 Elisabeth Browlee Reserve Shellharbour 3 6(a) SCC Zg22 Shellcove 1 Shellharbour 200 2(f) Freehold/SCC Zg23 Killalea 1 Shellharbour 150 7(f2) Crown (KSPT) Zg24 Killalea 2 Shellharbour 34 7(f2) Crown (KSPT) Zg25 Killalea 3 Shellharbour 40 7(f2) Crown (KSPT) Zg26 Killalea 4 Shellharbour 124 7(f2) Crown (KSPT) Zg27 Bass Point 1 Shellharbour 3 7(f2) Crown (SCC) Zg28 Bass Point 2 Shellharbour 2 7(f2) Crown (SCC) Zg29 Minnamurra Rainforest 1 Kiama - 8(a) DEC Zg30 Minnamurra Rainforest 2 Kiama 10 8(a) DEC Zg48 Minnamurra Headland Kiama - 6(a) KMC Zg51 Turpentine Reserve Kiama 14 6(a)/7(d) KMC Zg58 Kiama Aquatic Centre Kiama 170 6(a) KMC Zg59 Stead Reserve Kiama 30 6(a) KMC Zg68 Bonaira Native Gardens Kiama - 6(a) KMC Zg71 Jerrara Dam 1 Kiama 1 1(a) KMC Zg72 Jerrara Dam 2 Kiama 193 1(a) KMC Zg73 Jerrara Dam 3 Kiama 16 1(a) KMC Zg74 Jerrara Dam 4 Kiama 26 1(a) KMC Zg75 Jerrara Dam 5 Kiama 73 1(a) KMC Zg84 Upper Foxground Kiama 2 7(e) Freehold (VCA) Zg89 Toolijooa 3 Kiama 347 1(a) Freehold (RPA) Zg94 North Kiama Park Kiama 7 6(a) Crown (KMC) Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 5
Appendix 5: Interim assessment of relative conservation significance for Zieria granulata sites
The following assessment of relative conservation significance for Zieria granulata sites has been undertaken to assist in prioritising sites for the allocation of the limited resources associated with this recovery program. Using the information available in December 2003, each site has been assessed against the criteria outlined in Section 8.4 of the recovery plan.
It should be noted that the assessment is a ‘broad brush’ attempt to develop recovery priorities for the species based on limited data. Site specific assessments against ALL the criteria listed in Section 8.4 of the recovery plan should be undertaken before decisions regarding the future management of individual sites are made.
It should also be noted that the level of information known about the ecology and biology of Z. granulata and the present status of sites is insufficient for the sites to be ranked in order of significance and this is NOT the intention of this assessment. This assessment is NOT to be used in statutory environmental impact assessment processes where the significance of particular site is required to be assessed holistically (including consideration of the presence of other listed threatened species, EECs etc) and to a greater level of detail.
For the purposes of this assessment, sites are considered to be of greater conservation significance if they exhibit one or more of the following features:
1. Large area of habitat Sites located within large areas of intact bushland are considered to be of greater significance. This is because such areas are considered more likely to provide the ecosystem services necessary to support a viable population of the species in the long term than smaller isolated remnants. Habitat size has also been used as a surrogate measure of habitat condition in this assessment. This is based on the assumption that large areas of intact habitat are less likely to be subject to degradation (and therefore have a greater management potential) than smaller isolated remnants. For the purposes of this assessment, sites located within intact bushland with an arbitrary minimum width of 500 metres are considered to be of greater significance. Any future assessments at an individual site level must also take into account the condition and connective importance of the habitat and the likelihood of ameliorating any existing threatening processes.
2. High number of plants present Sites containing more than 10 plants are considered to be of greater significance. Any future assessments at an individual site level must also take into account the potential size of the soil seed bank.
3. Location in relation to the current distributional limits of the species Sites located within 1.5 km of the distributional limits of the species are considered to be of greater significance.
4. Uniqueness of habitat Sites located in habitats that are present at less than 10% of sub-sites are considered to be of greater significance.
5. Proportion of the local population represent Sites containing more than 5% of the local population of the species are considered to be of greater significance.
Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 5
Interim assessment of the relative conservation significance of Zieria granulata sites (? denotes insufficient data available to assess site against criterion)
Site Location Habitat Plant Location Habitat % of Code size no.’s type local pop. Zg1 Stoney Range •• • Zg2 Elisabeth Browlee Reserve • Zg3 Hazleton Creek ? • ?? Zg4 Regal Heights •• Zg5 SW Regal Heights • Zg6 Stockyard Mountain •• •• Zg7 Mount Terry 1 • ? • Zg8 Mount Terry 2 ? • Zg9 Wentworth Hills 1 ? ? Zg10 Wentworth Hills 2 ? ? Zg11 Actephila Gully 1 • Zg12 Actephila Gully 2 ? ? Zg13 Wentworth Hills 3 Zg14 Eastern Ridge 1 •• Zg15 Eastern Ridge 2 ? ? Zg16 Eastern Ridge 3 ? ? Zg17 Southern Ridge 1 • ?? Zg18 Southern Ridge 2 • ?? Zg19 Southern Ridge 3 • ?? Zg20 Locking Hill •• • Zg21 Gooseberry Hill 1 • Zg22 Shellcove •• Zg23 Killalea 1 •• Zg24 Killalea 2 •• Zg25 Killalea 3 •• Zg26 Killalea 4 •• Zg27 Bass Point 1 •• Zg28 Bass Point 2 •• Zg29 Minnamurra Rainforest 1 • ? • ?? Zg30 Minnamurra Rainforest 2 ••• Zg31 Jamberoo Road 1 ••• Zg32 Jamberoo Road 2 •• Zg33 Flying Fox North 1 ? ? Zg34 Flying Fox North 2 • ?? Zg35 Flying Fox North 3 •• Zg36 Flying Fox North 4 • Zg37 Flying Fox North 5 ? ? ? Zg38 Flying Fox South 1 •• Zg39 Flying Fox South 3 •• • Zg40 Flying Fox South 4 •• • Zg41 Flying Fox South 2 • ?? Zg42 Flying Fox South 5 ? ? Zg43 Minnamurra Lane Zg44 SE Jamberoo • ? • Zg45 Wallaby Hill Road 1 •• Zg46 Wallaby Hill Road 3 •• Zg47 Wallaby Hill Road 2 •• Zg48 Minnamurra Headland ? ? ? Zg49 Minnamurra Floodplain •• Zg50 Minnamurra Bends ? • Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 5
Site Location Habitat Plant Location Habitat % of Code size no.’s type local pop. Zg51 Turpentine Reserve •• Zg52 Tabbagong Forest 1 ••• Zg53 Tabbagong Forest 2 • Zg54 Tabbagong Forest 3 ••• Zg55 Tabbagong Forest 4 ••• Zg56 Bombo 1 •• Zg57 Bombo 2 • Zg58 Kiama Aquatic Centre •• Zg59 Stead Reserve • Zg60 Willow Gully ••• Zg61 Spring Creek 1 ? ? ? Zg62 Spring Creek 2 ? ? ? Zg63 Spring Creek 2 ? ? ? Zg64 Long Brush Road • Zg65 West Kiama • Zg66 Old Saddleback Road • Zg67 Saddleback Mt Road Zg68 Bonaira Native Gardens ? ? ? Zg69 Easts Beach • ? • Zg70 Boona Ridge ? • Zg71 Jerrara Dam 1 Zg72 Jerrara Dam 2 •• Zg73 Jerrara Dam 3 • ? Zg74 Jerrara Dam 4 • ? Zg75 Jerrara Dam 5 •• Zg76 Mount Brandon Road 1 •• Zg77 Saddleback West • Zg78 Saddleback Mountain • Zg79 Saddleback Lookout • Zg80 Saddleback East 1 •• Zg81 Saddleback Road • Zg82 Saddleback East 2 ? ? Zg83 Lower Foxground ? ? • Zg84 Upper Foxground ••• Zg85 Upper Irwins Creek •• • Zg86 West of Broughton Village •• Zg87 Toolijooa 1 ••? • Zg88 Toolijooa 2 ••? • Zg89 Toolijooa 3 •••• Zg90 Mount Brandon Road 2 • Zg91 Whispering Gallery •• Zg92 Dunmore •• Zg93 Gooseberry Hill 2 • Zg94 North Kiama Park ? Zg95 Mt Pleasant Ridge • ? Zg96 Croom Road • ? • Zg97 Actephila Ridge ? ? ?
Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 6
Appendix 6: Site management statement proforma for Zieria granulata
SITE NAME: SITE CODE:
PREPARED BY: DATE:
OWNER DETAILS Name: Phone number:
Street address: Postal address:
PARCEL DETAILS LGA: Portion/Lot:
Tenure: Zoning:
Current Landuse:
POPULATION DETAILS AMG Zone: Easting: Northing:
1:25 000 Mapsheet:
Local Abundance: frequent/occasional/rare
Area covered:
Number of adult plants: Number of seedling plants:
Plant height(s): Estimated age of adult plants:
RECORDS Site map attached: Yes/No
Photographs Taken: Yes/No
Extent of Survey: complete/incomplete/unknown
HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS Aspect: Slope:
Altitude: Geology:
Soil Texture: sand/loam/clay Soil Depth: skeletal/shallow/deep
Outcropping rock (%): Surface rock (%):
Drainage: waterlogged/damp/well drained dry/well drained moist
Disturbance: intact/logged/grazed/topsoil removed/landfill/other Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 6
ASSOCIATED VEGETATION Vegetation structural formation: Associated species (list dominant species):
• Canopy:
• Understorey:
• Groundcover:
• Vines/Climbers:
THREATS Weed invasion (specify species and % cover):
Trampling/grazing:
Isolation/fragmentation:
Erosion:
Inappropriate fire regimes:
Inappropriate access:
Rubbish dumping:
Other (specify):
SITE MANAGEMENT
Previous management actions (describe apparent success):
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Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 6
Recommended threat abatement measures:
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Recommended monitoring/evaluation program:
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Timetable for the implementation of management actions/monitoring:
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Appendix 7: Photographs
Photo 1: Foliage of the Illawarra Zieria (M. Bremner/DEC) Photo 2: Flowers of the Illawarra Zieria (M. Bremner/DEC)
Photo 3: Melaleuca armillaris Tall Shrubland endangered Photo 4: Illawarra Zieria on a paddock edge ecological community (M. Bremner/DEC) (M. Bremner/DEC)
Photo 5: Roadside Illawarra Zieria plant (M. Bremner/DEC) Photo 6: Roadside Illawarra Zieria plants (M. Bremner/DEC)
Photo 7: Dieback during drought (M. Bremner/DEC) Photo 8: Rubbish dumping at an Illawarra Zieria site (M. Bremner/DEC)
Approved Recovery Plan for Zieria granulata (Illawarra Zieria): Appendix 8
Appendix 8: Summary of advice from the NSW Scientific Committee
Under Section 66A of the TSC Act (1995), recovery plans must include a summary of any advice given by the NSW Scientific Committee, details of any amendments made to the plan to take account of that advice and a statement of reasons for any departure from that advice. The Scientific Committee’s comments on the draft Zieria granulata Recovery Plan and details of the amendments made are tabled below.
Section Comment Response - Replace NVC Act with NV Act Amended Section There is good distributional data in the plan No amendment necessary. All known biological 6 but virtually no biological data. data for the species is included in the plan. Actions 6.1 & 6.2 aim to improve knowledge of the biology and ecology of the species. 6.3.1 Given the rate of change in the Illawarra it is a No amendment necessary. Available resources concern that many sites have not been limited the amount of field work that could be surveyed for over 10 years. It would have undertaken during the preparation of the plan. assisted the process if it were known how Actions 2.1, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.8 aim to ensure that many of the populations/sub-populations were this information is gathered during the extant. implementation of the plan. 8.2 Knowledge of genetic structure will be No amendment necessary. No planting of the extremely important in the event of replanting species is proposed in the plan. The stated overall proposals (noting however that 8.6.1 would objective of the plan is to promote the in-situ not favour translocation). conservation of the species across its natural range. 8.3.5 Duke Energy is required to restore habitat and No amendment necessary. Under Action 2.7, the population numbers. Given the reported DEC will liaise with DIPNR and Duke Energy to problems during construction what oversight ensure that the approval conditions for the of the operation occurs. In the case of Eastern Gas Pipeline that relate to Duke Energy increasing numbers – where do the additional are complied with. Habitat manipulation through plants come from? (and does this conflict with controlled disturbance (following seed dispersal) 8.6.1?) would be the preferred means of increasing plant numbers where required. 8.3.8 Roadside verge maintenance is not covered by No amendment necessary. Licensing under the ‘routine agricultural activity’ so presumably TSC Act will be required for these activities if no licensing is required. Part 4 or Part 5 approval under the EP&A Act exists. 8.4 Relative conservation significance. This is Amended. Section 8.4 and Appendix 5 have been potentially a dangerous concept which could altered to clarify that the interim assessment of lead to pressure for the loss of these sites conservation significance is intended for use only apparently of low conservation significance. in determining priorities for the allocation of the Site significance would need to be assessed limited resources associated with the holistically to include other matters such as implementation of this plan. The assessment is presence of other listed species, EECs etc. not to be used in statutory environmental impact assessment processes. 8.6.2 Where would any seed collection be No amendment necessary. The seed collection is maintained? Action 6.2 specifies the Botanic to be maintained at the Mount Annan Botanic Gardens but what is Gardens policy – do they Gardens. Table 7 details the DEC’s $17,000 in- have the resources – there is no indication of kind commitment over five years to fund Action funding to meet costs. 5.2 (investigate basic seed biology) and Action 6.2. (long term seed storage). Table In light of DEC budget stringency, are the No amendment necessary. The proposed budget 13 proposed budgets feasible? is feasible provided that external funds can be secured to implement the actions identified in Table 13 as having ‘unsecured’ funds. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW)
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