Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard, Geelong- Bacchus Marsh Road (Little River-Ripley Road to Ballan Road)

Final Report Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard, Geelong- Bacchus Marsh Road (Little River-Ripley Road to Ballan Road)

Prepared for VicRoads - South Western Region June 2017

Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd

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Assessment Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard Address Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road (Little River-Ripley Road to Ballan Road) Project number 8493 Project manager Chad Browning (Senior Zoologist) Report reviewer Aaron Organ (Director/ Principal Ecologist), Andrew Taylor (Consultant Zoologist) Mapping Monique Elsley (GIS Consultant) File name 8493_EHP_Balliang_SLL_070617_CB Client VicRoads - South Western Region Bioregion Victorian Volcanic Plain CMA Port Phillip and Western Port Council City of Greater Geelong, Moorabool Shire

Report versions Comments Comments updated by Date submitted Draft 1 - - 22/12/2016 Updated based on comments supplied by Draft 2 CSB 12/04/2017 VicRoads (27/02/17 and 05/04/17) Updated based on amendments to the project Final CSB 07/06/2017 footprint.

Acknowledgements We thank the following people for their contribution to the project:  Stephen McGarrigle and John Tunn (VicRoads - South Western Region) for project information;  Traffic Control Victoria Pty Ltd for the provision of traffic management services; and,  The Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) for access to ecological databases. Copyright © Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd This document is subject to copyright and may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned. The use or copying of this document in whole or part without the permission of Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd is an infringement of copyright. Disclaimer Although Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd have taken all the necessary steps to ensure that an accurate document has been prepared, the company accepts no liability for any damages or loss incurred as a result of reliance placed upon the report and its contents.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 2 LIST OF ACRONYMS

Acronym Description CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan CMA Catchment Management Authority DoEE Federal Department of Environment and Energy EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 EVC Ecological Vegetation Class FFG Act Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 NES National Environmental Significance NTGVVP Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain PMST Protected Matters Search Tool (DoEE) SPFL Scientific Procedures Fieldwork Licence SVL Snout-vent Length VBA Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (DELWP)

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 3 SUMMARY

Introduction Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd was commissioned by VicRoads - South Western Region to conduct a targeted survey for Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar within the 13 kilometre section of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road located between Little River-Ripley Road, Balliang East and Ballan Road, Parwan (the ‘study area’). The study area focusses on ‘Section 2’ of the Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road upgrade project.

The targeted survey formed part of a broader impact assessment study commissioned by VicRoads to facilitate upgrade works along the subject section of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road. The survey was required to determine the presence or absence of the nationally significant species and address any implications under Commonwealth and State environmental legislation associated with the proposed works.

Methods The targeted survey was undertaken to investigate the quality and extent of habitat for Striped Legless Lizard within the study area, and determine the presence and abundance, or absence of the species. The survey was undertaken in accordance with best-practice guidelines and under the appropriate licences.

The targeted survey involved the establishment of tile grids within identified ‘patches’ of habitat likely to be impacted, with each grid consisting of 50 roof tiles. Ten tile grids were laid across the study area on 1st September 2016. The tile grids were checked on six occasions between 15th September and 25th November 2016.

Results Striped Legless Lizards were detected within the study area during five of the six tile grid checks undertaken. Eight individuals were recorded from within three of the ten established survey sites - TG5, TG6 and TG7.

Survey sites TG6 and TG7 represented the highest quality habitat for Striped Lizard within the study area. Each site supported a high cover of surface rock, cracking soils and tussock-forming native grasses. The high cover of surface rock at these sites also precluded regular slashing, which maintained a high biomass and dense tussock structure throughout the year. Site TG5 was more representative of the remaining survey sites where Striped Legless Lizard was not recorded. The site lacked surface rocks and was periodically slashed. Cracking clay soils were present and the vegetation was dominated by common native grass species.

The study area supports 28.3 hectares of Plains Grassland which provides potential habitat for Striped Legless Lizard. Of this total, 18.9 hectares meets the definition of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) listed Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain (NTGVVP) ecological community and is considered to constitute high quality habitat. The remaining 9.4 hectares of Plains Grassland provides potential habitat for Striped Legless Lizard, however, these areas are highly modified from disturbance associated with regular slashing, cultivation and weed invasion and constitute lower quality habitat for the species.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 4 Impact Assessment The proposed activity would involve the removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard, which comprises of 2.4 hectares of higher quality habitat (NTGVVP) and 2.1 hectares of lower quality habitat.

The proposed works involve road widening, whereby the removal of Striped Legless Lizard habitat would be limited to narrow, linear strips approximately two metres wide that extend for approximately 13 kilometres in length. Approximately 23.8 hectares of Striped Legless Lizard habitat (16.5 hectares of higher quality habitat [NTGVVP] and 7.3 hectares of lower quality habitat) would be retained in the road reserve.

Based on the proposed linear nature of clearing, the extent of retained habitat, and assuming appropriate mitigation measures are employed, it is considered that the proposed activity is unlikely to constitute a significant impact on the species.

Recommendations The Commonwealth Guideline ‘Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Referral Guidelines for the Vulnerable Striped Legless Lizard, Delma impar’ indicates that a referral should be submitted for activities involving the removal or modification of 0.5 hectares or more of known habitat, or habitat that has a moderate to high potential to support the species. Given that the proposed activity will result in the removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard, project referral regarding this matter is recommended. It is recommended that this report is included in the referral documentation to assist the Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) in determining if a significant impact is likely to occur and if assessment and approval is required under the Act. The referral should include detail regarding the proposed measures to avoid and minimise impacts on the target species, including preparation of a project specific Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 5 CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 7

1.1 Background...... 7

1.2 Objectives ...... 7

1.3 Study Area ...... 8

2 TARGETSPECIES - STRIPEDLEGLESSLIZARD ...... 9

2.1 Conservation Status...... 9

2.2 Description...... 9

2.3 Distribution...... 10

2.4 Habitat ...... 10

2.5 Threats and Recovery Actions...... 10

3 METHODS ...... 11

3.1 Desktop Assessment...... 11

3.2 Targeted Survey...... 11

3.3 Significance Assessments ...... 13

3.4 Assessment Qualification and Limitations ...... 13

4 RESULTS ...... 14

4.1 Database Searches ...... 14

4.2 Habitat Assessment ...... 14

4.3 Targeted Survey...... 15

5 POTENTIALIMPACTSANDMITIGATION ...... 17

5.1 Potential Impacts...... 17

5.2 Significance Assessment...... 17

5.3 Recommended Mitigation Measures...... 17

6 SUMMARYOFLEGISLATIVEIMPLICATIONS ...... 19

7 CONCLUSION ...... 20

8 REFERENCES ...... 21

FIGURES ...... 23

APPENDIX 1 - WEATHERCONDITIONSDURINGTHEFIELDSURVEYS ...... 28

APPENDIX 2 - PHOTOGRAPHS:TILEGRIDS ...... 29

APPENDIX 3 - SIGNIFICANTIMPACTASSESSMENT ...... 33

APPENDIX 4 - SUMMARYOFIMPACTSANDMITIGATIONMEASURES ...... 34

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 6 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Ecology and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd was commissioned by VicRoads - South Western Region to conduct a targeted fauna survey within the 13 kilometre section of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road located between Little River-Ripley Road, Balliang East and Ballan Road, Parwan (the ‘study area’) (Figure 1).

The survey targeted the Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar; a nationally significant species listed as Vulnerable under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The species was identified by a previous ecological assessment as having a moderate likelihood of occurring within the study area (Okologie Consulting 2016). The species is also listed as threatened under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) and Endangered on the Victorian Advisory List (DSE 2013).

The targeted survey forms part of a broader impact assessment study commissioned by VicRoads to facilitate the following proposed upgrade works along the subject section of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road:

 A road safety upgrade;

 Intersection improvements at major cross roads;

 Widening of the Little River and the Balliang Creek bridges;

 Associated drainage works and service relocations; and,

 Provision of overtaking lanes.

The preceding ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016) assessed the entire road reserve of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road between Little River-Ripley Road and Ballan Road, in addition to land within 200 metres of the main alignment located in the reserves of intersecting roads including Little River-Ripley Road, Gilmores Road, Birds Road, Sharkeys Road, Davis Lane, School Road and Ballan Road. In the total, the ecological assessment involved the survey of approximately 80 hectares of land.

1.2 Objectives

The targeted fauna survey was recommended in the 2016 ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016) and focussed on the Striped Legless Lizard and areas of potential habitat within the study area. The key objectives of the survey were to:

 Complete a desktop review and field survey to confirm the likelihood of Striped Legless Lizard occurring within the study area and surrounding landscape;

 Identify known and potential impacts on Striped Legless Lizard associated with the proposed upgrade works and determine the significance of impacts with reference to the significant impact criteria specified in the following guidelines:

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 7 o EPBC Act Policy Statement 1.1 Significant Impact Guidelines – Matters of National Environmental Significance (DoE 2013); o Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Referral Guidelines for the Vulnerable Striped Legless Lizard, Delma impar (DSEWPaC 2011a).

 Provide information in relation to any implications of Commonwealth and State environmental legislation and policy associated with the proposed upgrade works; and,

 Review the suitability of mitigation measures previously recommended for the project (Okologie Consulting 2016) and where appropriate, identify additional measures to avoid and/or mitigate potential adverse impacts on the target species.

1.3 Study Area

The study area focusses on ‘Section 2’ of the broader Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road upgrade project. It lies within the Victorian Volcanic Plain bioregion and the management boundaries of the Geelong and Moorabool Councils, and the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority (CMA). The topography varies from relatively flat land to low undulating slopes throughout the site. Two main waterways and several minor tributaries intersect Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road, including Little River, which runs east-west near Gilmore Road, and Balliang Creek, which runs north-south near Blue Gum Track.

The Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road reserve is zoned Road Zone - Schedule 1 (RDZ1) and the Farming Zone (FZ) is applied to the reserves of Little River Ripley Road, Gilmores Road, Birds Road, Sharkeys Road, Davis Lane, School Road and Ballan Road under the Greater Geelong and Moorabool Planning Schemes. Planning overlays including the Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) and Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO) are also applied to sections of the site.

The targeted fauna survey focussed on all areas of potential habitat for Striped Legless Lizard within the study area, as identified in the ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016) (Figure 2). These included 28.3 hectares of Plains Grassland (Ecological Vegetation Class [EVC] 132), including 67 individual patches and 18.9 hectares of grassland which meets the classification of the EPBC Act listed ecological community Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain (NTGVVP).

Survey sites were established within the areas of suitable habitat noted above (Figure 2; Section 3.2).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 8 2 TARGET SPECIES - STRIPED LEGLESS LIZARD

2.1 Conservation Status The Striped Legless Lizard is listed as Vulnerable under the Commonwealth EPBC Act, threatened under the Victorian FFG Act and is considered to be Endangered in Victoria (DSE 2013).

2.2 Description Striped Legless Lizard is a member of the family Pygopodidae, the legless or flap-footed lizards (Cogger 1996). As with other members of the legless lizard family, Striped Legless Lizards lack forelimbs and have only vestigial hind limbs, in the form of scale ‘flaps’ either side of their vent. Superficially, these animals resemble snakes, but can be readily distinguished from the latter by the presence of external ear openings, a fleshy undivided tongue and a tail which is longer than the body (Cogger Plate 1. Striped Legless Lizard Source: Ecology 1996). Striped Legless Lizards are readily distinguished and Heritage Partners Pty Ltd. from other legless lizards by body colouration, body size and head scalation.

Striped Legless Lizard is a pale-grey lizard up to 30 centimetres in length, with a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of approximately 12 centimetres (Plate 1). The species has a long thin body and the tail, when unbroken, is about twice the length of the body. They have a series of stripes on their sides and the sides of their back, becoming diagonal bands on the tail (Cogger 1996). These stripes are dark-brown or blackish and extend the whole Plate 2. Striped Legless Lizard Records in Victoria length of the individual from the neck to the tail. (DELWP 2016a) However, in some individuals, particularly juveniles, these stripes may be very faint or absent (Cogger 1996).

Striped Legless Lizards generally feed only on invertebrate prey and are considered a selective arthropod feeder. While the main prey types of the species in Victoria were found to be crickets and noctuid moth larvae, spiders were found to be the predominant prey type within the ACT (O’Shea 2005).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 9 2.3 Distribution Before European settlement, the Striped Legless Lizard was presumed to be common across many grassland areas in north-eastern, central and south-western Victoria, south-eastern NSW, the ACT, and, possibly, south-eastern South Australia (Smith and Robertson 1999). The species has suffered a substantial contraction in both geographic range and abundance over the past 100 years. The range contraction and resultant reduction in population size is likely to continue, due to the ongoing removal, fragmentation and deterioration of suitable grassland habitat (Smith and Robertson 1999). Current populations in Victoria persist primarily in the basalt plains to the west of Melbourne, and areas around Ballarat and Bendigo (DSE 2003; Hadden 1995) (Plate 2).

2.4 Habitat The Striped Legless Lizard inhabits lowland native grasslands, typically dominated by native tussock-forming grass species. In Victorian populations, the species frequents habitats with exposed basalt rocks in grassland and areas of cracking clay soils, where the species can seek refuge under rocks and in earth cracks (Dorrough et al. 1995). Although Striped Legless Lizards have been reported from areas of relatively undisturbed native grasslands, with a dense cover of perennial tussock grasses (Kukolic 1991; Kukolic and Osborne 1993), they are also known to inhabit areas of non-native grassland (Smith and Robertson 1999). This has been shown at several sites throughout the Basalt Plains in western Victoria, which are currently grazed at various stock densities (Rohr and Peterson 2003).

The study area supports 28.3 hectares of Plains Grassland which provides potential habitat for Striped Legless Lizard. Of this total, 18.9 hectares meets the definition of the EPBC Act listed NTGVVP ecological community and is considered to constitute high quality habitat. The remaining 9.4 hectares of Plains Grassland provides potential habitat for Striped Legless Lizard, however, these areas are highly modified from disturbance associated with regular slashing, cultivation and weed invasion and constitute lower quality habitat for the species

The targeted survey effort focussed on identifying the absence/ presence of the species within the higher quality remnants and determining the likelihood of the species occurring within each grassland patch (Section 3.2).

2.5 Threats and Recovery Actions A combination of factors, including the clearing of grasslands for urban development, more intense agricultural practices (e.g. pasture improvement, cropping, and prolonged grazing), inappropriate fire regimes and weed invasion (e.g. Chilean Needle-grass Nassella neesiana) threaten the long-term survival of the species (Cogger et al. 1993).

Recovery actions for the species are documented in the National Recovery Plan (Smith and Robertson 1999).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 10 3 METHODS

This section details the desk-based and field methods used to survey the target species as well as the methods used to assess the significance of impacts.

3.1 Desktop Assessment

Relevant literature, online-resources and numerous databases were reviewed to determine the likelihood of Striped Legless Lizard occurring within the study area. The following information sources were reviewed:

 The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) (DELWP 2016a), and Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) (DoEE 2016a) for documented records or potential habitat within the local area;

 The Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Biodiversity Interactive Map (DELWP 2016b);

 FFG Act Action Statements (DSE 2003), EPBC Act Policy Statements and National Recovery Plans (Smith and Robertson 1999);

 Previous flora and fauna assessment reports, including the preceding ecological assessment (Okologie Consulting 2016);

 Relevant biological and ecological literature pertaining to the target species; and,

 Aerial photography of the study area.

3.2 Targeted Survey

All fieldwork was carried out under the appropriate licences, including a Research Permit (10006893) and Scientific Procedures Fieldwork Licence (SPFL 410) issued by DELWP under the Wildlife Act 1975, and an Animal Research permit issued by the Wildlife and Small Institutions Animal Ethics Committee (22.13). The methods adopted to survey the target species are described in the following sections. Appendix 1 details the weather conditions during each field survey event.

The targeted survey was undertaken to investigate the quality and extent of Striped Legless Lizard habitat within the study area and determine the presence and abundance, or absence of the species. The survey was conducted with reference to the prescribed methods detailed in the following guidelines:

 EPBC Act Referral Guidelines for the Vulnerable Striped Legless Lizard, Delma impar (DSEWPaC 2011a);

 Survey Guidelines for Australia's Threatened Reptiles (DSEWPaC 2011b); and,

 Biodiversity Precinct Structure Planning Kit (DSE 2010).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 11 The survey involved the deployment of artificial refuge structures through the establishment of tile grids in areas of high quality grassland habitat within the study area (Figure 2). The intention of establishing a grid of roof tiles is that individuals will use the artificial habitat for shelter, and to assist in thermoregulation. The set of artificial refuges provide a target for Zoologists to focus search attempts in which tiles are lifted to check for the presence of lizards. The adopted methodology is widely accepted as the primary survey technique for this species, particularly in areas supporting surface rock cover (DSE 2003; DSEWPaC 2011a).

In accordance with the adopted guidelines, tile grids were established within identified ‘patches’ of habitat likely to be impacted, with each grid consisting of 50 roof tiles, deployed in different configurations according to the extent and location of potential habitat. Ten tile grids were laid on 1 September 2016 at the following locations identified in Table 1 and Figure 2. The timing of the checks was undertaken in accordance with advice from DELWP who have extensive experience in undertaking surveys for the species. The tile grids were checked on six occasions between 15 September and 25 November 2016, as shown below (Table 2).

Table 1. Location of tile grids placed within the study area.

Tile Grid Eastings1 Northings Tile Grid Eastings1 Northings

TG1 269884.3 5805673.6 TG6 270446.3 5809282.0 TG2 270055.8 5806321.4 TG7 270674.9 5810293.7 TG3 270115.3 5806855.5 TG8 270998.8 5811364.8 TG4 270097.3 5807636.8 TG9 271295.1 5812230.5 TG5 270147.8 5808044.6 TG10 271479.3 5812757.0 Note: 1) GDA94, MGA 55

Table 2. Tile survey dates.

Tile Check Number Date

1 15/09/2016 2 29/09/2016 3 13/10/2016 4 27/10/2016 5 11/11/2016 6 25/11/2016

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 12 3.3 Significance Assessments

Tests for significance were completed in accordance with the significant impact criteria specified in the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (DoE 2013) and the species-specific impact assessment guidelines (DSEWPaC 2011a).

3.4 Assessment Qualification and Limitations

Data and information held within the ecological databases and mapping programs reviewed as part of the desktop assessment are unlikely to represent all fauna observations that have occurred within, and surrounding, the study area. It is therefore important to acknowledge that the number of documented records for the target species within and surrounding the study area is not necessarily a reflection of population size or density. Furthermore, a documented record may indicate a species’ presence in an area at a given point in time, but it generally does not offer information about how a species is making use an area (e.g. foraging, nesting, dispersing). This can be important information when determining the potential impact of a proposed action on a threatened species.

Striped Legless Lizard is generally a cryptic species and therefore non-detection through surveys does not necessary mean that the species is not present or that it does not use an area of suitable habitat. However, the targeted survey undertaken during this investigation was done so to maximise detectability. That is, it was undertaken during a suitable period and the completed survey effort adhered to the requirements of the guidelines noted in Section 3.2.

It is therefore considered that appropriate survey effort has been employed to determine the status of Striped Legless Lizard within the study area.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 13 4 RESULTS

4.1 Database Searches

Striped Legless Lizard has been recorded four times within 10 kilometres of the study area, with all records sourced from an undeveloped grassland site located in Balliang East, approximately seven kilometres east of the middle section on the study area (DELWP 2016a) (Figure 3). The next closest known records are located approximately 14.5 kilometres east of the study area.

4.2 Habitat Assessment

The study area contains approximately 28.3 hectares of Plains Grassland (EVC 132); including 67 individual patches and 18.9 hectares of grassland which meets the classification of the EPBC Act listed NTGVVP ecological community.

The ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016) notes that the native grasslands within the study area have been subject to varying levels of disturbance from slashing and weed invasion. Areas of grassland north of Balliang Creek to Ballan Road support a simplified cover (30-60%) of Common Wallaby- grass Rytidosperma caespitosum and Bristly Wallaby-grass Rytidosperma setaceum. Dominant exotic species within these areas include Sweet-vernal Grass Anthoxanthum odoratum, Yorkshire Fog-grass Holcus lanatus, Caterpillar Grass Paspalum dilatatum, Onion Grass Romulea rosea, Cat’s Ear Hypochoeris radicata and Ribwort Plantago lanceolata.

The road reserve south of Balliang Creek to Little River-Ripley Road comprises an extensive cover of Plains Grassland, dominated by native grasses (30-80% cover) and rocky basalt outcrops. This area includes the large patches of higher quality grassland classified as NTGVVP, some of which extend for over 2.3 kilometres within the road reserve.

All tiles grids were deployed in patches classified as NTGVVP (Figure 2). These areas were dominated by Rough Spear-grass Austrostipa scabra subsp. falcata, Kangaroo Grass Themeda triandra, Kneed Spear-grass Austrostipa bigeniculata, Common Wallaby-grass, Bristly Wallaby Grass, Brown-back Wallaby-grass Rytidosperma duttonianum, Common Wheat-grass Anthosachne scabra, Windmill Grass Chloris truncata and Long-hair Plume-grass Dichelachne crinita. Herbs were also present, including Pink Bindweed Convolvulus erubescens, Lemon Beauty-heads Calocephalus citreaus and Sheep’s Burr Acaena echinata.

In addition to native tussock grasses, most survey sites supported cracking soils. Sites TG6, STG7 and TG9 also supported exposed basalt rocks. Photographs of each survey site are provided in Appendix 2.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 14 4.3 Targeted Survey

The results of the targeted survey are summarised in Table 3. Striped Legless Lizards were detected within the study area during five of the six tile grid checks undertaken. Eight individuals were recorded from within three of the ten established survey sites - TG5, TG6 and TG7 (Figure 2).

Survey sites TG6 and TG7 represent the highest quality habitat for Striped Lizard within the study area. Each site supports a high cover of surface rock, cracking soils and tussock-forming native grasses including Rough Spear-grass, Kangaroo Grass and Kneed Spear-grass. The high cover of surface rock at these sites also precludes regular slashing, which maintains a high biomass and dense tussock structure throughout the year. Site TG5 is more representative of the remaining survey sites where Striped Legless Lizard was not recorded. The site lacks surface rocks and is periodically slashed. Cracking clay soils are present and the vegetation is dominated by Spear-grass and Wallaby-grass species.

According to the EPBC Act referral guidelines for the Striped Legless Lizard (DSEWPaC 2011a), once detected on site, all areas of suitable habitat should be considered occupied by the species.

The targeted survey recorded an additional seven species, including the regionally significant Fat-tailed Dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata, which was recorded twice on separate occasions at survey site TG4 (Table 3). This species is listed as Near Threatened on the Victorian Advisory List (DSE 2013) and is known to occur in a range of habitats including tussock grassland, rough pasture and the edges of stubble paddocks (Menkhorst and Knight 2004). Other species recorded during the survey are common in the locality and include Eastern Three-lined Skink Bassiana duperreyi, Southern Grass Skink Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii, Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard Tiliqua scincoides scincoides, House Mouse Mus musculus, Spotted Marsh Frog Limnodynastes tasmaniensis and Brown Snake Pseudonaja textilis.

Plate 3. Striped Legless Lizard recorded at TG7 Plate 4. Striped Legless Lizard recorded at TG6

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 15 Plate 5. Fat-tailed Dunnart recorded at TG4 Plate 6. Brown Snake recorded at TG1

Table 3. Survey Results

Eastern Striped Southern Eastern Spotted Three- House Fat-tailed Brown Check/ Date Legless Grass Blue-tongue Marsh lined Mouse Dunnart Snake Lizard Skink Lizard Frog Skink 2 (TG1, 1- 15/09/2016 - 1 (TG7) - - - - - TG5) 2- 29/09/2016 2 (TG7) - - 1(TG8) 7 (TG10) - - - 2 (TG5, 3- 13/10/2016 - - - 6 (TG10) - 1 (TG4) - TG7) 2 (TG4, 2 (TG1, 4- 27/10/2016 1 (TG7) - - 2 (TG7, TG8) 1 (TG4) - TG10) TG7) 5- 11/11/2016 2 (TG6) - 1 (TG1) 1 (TG10) 1 (TG4) 1 (TG4) - - 6- 25/11/2016 1 (TG7) ------

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 16 5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION

5.1 Potential Impacts

The proposed upgrade works will involve the direct disturbance of fauna habitat and have the potential to cause indirect impacts on ecological values within the study area and surrounding landscape. Known and potential impacts of the project relative to the target species include:  The removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard, including 2.4 hectares of higher quality habitat (NTGVVP) and 2.1 hectares of lower quality habitat.  The potential for injury and/or mortality from construction activities;  Potential disturbance associated with increased human activity and noise during construction; and,  Potential indirect impacts on adjacent areas outside of the limit of construction if activities and drainage are not appropriately managed. 5.2 Significance Assessment

For species listed under the EPBC Act, the significance of impacts is assessed in accordance with the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of the Environment 2013) where a ‘significant impact’ is defined as an impact which is important, notable, or of consequence, having regard to its context or intensity. Whether or not an action is likely to have a significant impact depends upon the sensitivity, value, and quality of the environment which is affected, and upon the intensity, duration, magnitude and geographic extent of the impacts. Importantly, for a ‘significant impact’ to be ‘likely’, it is not necessary for a significant impact to have a greater than 50% chance of happening; it is sufficient if a significant impact on the environment is a real or not remote chance or possibility (DoE 2013). In quantifying overall impacts to Striped Legless Lizard habitat, it should be noted that the majority of the proposed works involve road widening, whereby the removal of Striped Legless Lizard habitat would be limited to narrow, linear strips approximately two metres wide that extend for approximately 13 kilometres in length. Approximately 23.8 hectares of Striped Legless Lizard habitat (16.5 hectares of higher quality habitat [NTGVVP] and 7.3 hectares of lower quality habitat) would be retained in the road reserve. The results of significant impact assessment are provided in Appendix 3. Based on the proposed linear nature of clearing, the extent of retained habitat, and assuming appropriate mitigation measures are employed, it is considered that the proposed activity is unlikely to constitute a significant impact on the species. 5.3 Recommended Mitigation Measures

A general principle of environmental management is to, in order of preference:  Avoid environmental impacts;  Minimise impacts;  Mitigate the impacts; and,  Where impacts cannot be avoided or minimised, compensate for the residual impacts using other mitigation measures such as offsets.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 17 VicRoads has undertaken steps to avoid and minimise impacts to higher quality Striped Legless Lizard habitat (NTGVVP) through the functional design process, while still achieving the required design specifications to meet road safety objectives. The preliminary functional design resulted in the removal of 5.3 hectares of higher quality Striped Legless Lizard habitat. However, to avoid impacts to habitat as much as practicable, the road width was reduced by adopting a centre median width of 1.4 metres rather than a width of 2.2 metres, which reduced the removal of higher quality habitat to 2.4 hectares (an overall reduction of 2.9 hectares). Furthermore, the impacts to Striped Legless Lizard habitat referred to in this report are based on the functional road design and the construction footprint may be further reduced through the detailed design process.

Despite implementing the above mentioned design attributes, the project will also rely upon mitigation measures, which will be incorporated into a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). It is noted that the ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016) provided recommendations relating to the management of Striped Legless Lizard (prior to the completion of targeted surveys and detailed habitat assessments). The mitigation measures provided below refine and build on the previous recommendations and should be incorporated into the CEMP where appropriate.

 The objectives for fauna management and the responsibilities of all vegetation removal/ construction personnel should be incorporated into the site-orientated induction program attended by all staff, contractors, and subcontractors involved in the construction phase. The induction should include the following.

o Information regarding the environmental values within the project area (i.e. native vegetation communities, threatened species); o The legislative context and an outline of the Duty of Care of all persons on site to avoid and minimise the occurrence and extent of potential impacts to the environment; and, o The key objectives and measures for fauna management.  Potential risks to fauna should be managed by ensuring that vegetation removal and construction personnel are appropriately qualified to complete relevant tasks. Qualifications should be assessed at the beginning of employment/ engagement and periodically reviewed. This assessment should identify the minimum required competencies, qualifications and skills commensurate with the responsibilities of each project role.

 In order to avoid further disturbance to areas outside of those necessary for construction, areas of native vegetation adjoining the project footprint should be temporarily fenced (flagging) prior to vegetation removal. Once the ‘No-Go Area’ has been marked, no vegetation removal or construction activities (including vehicle movements and equipment storage) should occur within this area.

 Enforce hygiene protocols to reduce the risk of spread or introduction of weeds and pathogens within areas of potential habitat.

Backfill any trenches overnight where possible. In the event that trenches are left open overnight, checks for trapped fauna should be made in the morning, prior to any works commencing on-site. Fauna salvage activities must be undertaken by a qualified fauna handler, under a current Management Authorisation.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 18 6 SUMMARY OF LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

Table 4. Legislative implications associated with the target species

Relevant Legislation Implications Further Action The EPBC Act establishes a Commonwealth process for the assessment of proposed actions (i.e. project, development, undertaking, activity, or series of activities) that are likely to have a significant impact on matters of National Environmental Significance (NES), or on Commonwealth Environment land. An action, unless otherwise exempt, requires approval from the Commonwealth Environment Minister if it is considered likely to have an Protection and impact on any matters of NES. Biodiversity It is understood that VicRoads intends to refer the project under the EPBC Act. The significant impact assessment concluded that the proposed Complete a project referral. Conservation Act upgrade works are unlikely to significantly impact the Striped Legless Lizard (Appendix 3). 1999 It is recommended that this report is included in the referral documentation to assist the Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) in determining if a significant impact is likely to occur and if assessment and approval is required under the Act. The referral should include detail regarding the proposed measures to avoid and minimise impacts on the target species, including preparation of a project specific CEMP. The FFG Act is the primary legislation dealing with biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of native flora and fauna in Victoria. Proponents are required to apply for an FFG Act Permit to ‘take’ listed and/or protected flora species, listed vegetation communities and listed No further action required Flora and Fauna fish species in areas of public land (i.e. within road reserves, drainage lines and public reserves). An FFG Act permit is generally not required for in relation to the target Guarantee Act 1988 removal of species or communities on private land, or for the removal of habitat for a listed terrestrial fauna species. species. The Striped Legless Lizard is listed under the FFG Act; however no permitting requirements apply.

The Wildlife Act 1975 (and associated Wildlife Regulations 2002) is the primary legislation in Victoria providing for protection and management Ensure any required fauna of wildlife. The Act requires people engaged in wildlife research (e.g. fauna surveys, salvage and translocation activities) to obtain a permit salvage activities are Wildlife Act 1975 under the Act to ensure that these activities are undertaken in a manner consistent with the appropriate controls. In addition to permit completed in accordance requirements relating to animal ethics, a Management Authorisation Permit is required to salvage, hold and relocate any threatened species. with current permits under Any fauna handlers engaged to implement the CEMP are required to hold appropriate licences under the Act. the Act

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 19 7 CONCLUSION

In response to recommendations outlined in the 2016 ecological assessment report (Okologie Consulting 2016), a targeted survey was completed for Striped Legless Lizard within the 13 kilometre section of Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road located between Little River-Ripley Road, Balliang and Ballan Road, Parwan.

The target species is of national significance (i.e. listed under the EPBC Act) and was identified as having a moderate-high likelihood of occurring within the study area and being potentially impacted by the proposed activity. The survey aimed to confirm the likelihood of Striped Legless Lizard occurring, identify appropriate mitigation measures for inclusion in the project CEMP and determine the significance of impacts in order to support a project referral under the EBPC Act (if required).

The survey recorded eight Striped Legless Lizards within three of the 10 established tiles grids (Sites TG5, TG6 and TG7). Sites TG6 and TG7 were representative of high quality habitat and supported a complex grass structure, high biomass, exposed rocks and soil cracks. Site TG 5 was more representative of other sampled native grassland areas where the species was not recorded, which are subject to regular slashing and are lacking exposed rocks, the complex vegetative structure and high biomass. Based on the survey results, it is considered that Striped Legless Lizard potentially occurs within all areas of Plains Grassland recorded within the study area (28.3 hectares). This precautionary approach is consistent with the EPBC Act referral guidelines for the Striped Legless Lizard (DSEWPaC 2011a) which state that once detected on site, all areas of suitable habitat should be considered occupied by the species.

The proposed upgrade works will involve the removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard, including 2.4 hectares of high quality habitat corresponding with the EPBC Act listed NTGVVP ecological community. Approximately 23.8 hectares of Striped Legless Lizard habitat (16.5 hectares of higher quality habitat [NTGVVP] and 7.3 hectares of lower quality habitat) would be retained in the road reserve.

Recommendations

The Commonwealth Guideline ‘Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Referral Guidelines for the Vulnerable Striped Legless Lizard, Delma impar’ indicates that a referral should be submitted for activities involving the removal or modification of 0.5 hectares or more of known habitat, or habitat that has a moderate to high potential to support the species. Given that the proposed activity will result in the removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard, project referral regarding this matter is recommended. It is recommended that this report is included in the referral documentation to assist DoEE in determining if a significant impact is likely to occur and if assessment and approval is required under the Act. The referral should include detail regarding the proposed measures to avoid and minimise impacts on the target species, including preparation of a project specific CEMP.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 20 8 REFERENCES

Cogger, H.G., Cameron, E.E., Sadlier, R.A. and Eggler P., 1993. The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles. Australian Nature conservation Agency, Canberra, ACT.

Cogger, H. G (Ed). 1996. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. 5th Edition. Reed Books Australia, Victoria

DELWP (Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning) 2016a. Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Sourced from: “VBA_FAUNA25” and “VBA_FAUNA100”. Melbourne, Victoria.

DELWP (Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning) 2016b. Biodiversity Interactive Map [WWW Document]. URL http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/environment-and- wildlife/biodiversity/biodiversity-interactive-map. Melbourne, Victoria.

DoE (Department of the Environment) 2013. EPBC Act Policy Statement 1.1 Significant Impact Guidelines – Matters of National Environmental Significance. Canberra, ACT.

DoEE 2016a. Protected Matters Search Tool: Interactive Map [WWW Document]. URL http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/. Federal Department of the Environment and Energy, Canberra, ACT.

DoEE 2016b. Approved Conservation Advice - Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar. Federal Department of the Environment and Energy, Canberra, ACT.

Dorrough, J. (1995) Past and present habitat of the Striped Legless Lizard, Delma impar (Pygopodidae), in the Australian Capital Territory. An unpublished report to the Wildlife Research Unit, ACT Parks and Conservation Service.

DSE (Department of Sustainability and Environment) 2010. Biodiversity Precinct Structure Planning Kit. Melbourne, Victoria.

DSE (Department of Sustainability and Environment) 2003. Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Action Statement #17: Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar. Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne, Victoria.

DSE (Department of Sustainability and Environment) 2013. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Fauna in Victoria – 2013. Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment. Melbourne, Victoria.

DSEWPaC (Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities) 2011a. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 referral guidelines for the vulnerable striped legless lizard, Delma impar. Canberra, ACT.

DSEWPac (Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities) 2011b. Survey Guidelines for Australia’s Threatened Reptiles: Guidelines for detecting reptiles listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Canberra, ACT.

Hadden, S. 1995. Distribution, Status and Habitat Requirements of the Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar (Fischer). Final Report to the Australian Nature Conservation Agency. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Melbourne.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 21 Kukolic, K. 1991. Report on the vertebrate fauna surveys at Gungahlin. pp. 12–19 in The ACT's Native Grasslands. Conservation Council of the South-East Region and Canberra, Canberra.

Kukolic, K. and Osborne, W.S. 1993. Striped Legless Lizard (Delma impar). pp. 17–21 in, Sharp, S. (ed.). Lowland Native Grasslands in the Australian Capital Territory: Survey of sites and assessment of the conservation status, habitat and management requirements for species of concern. ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Conservation Series Report 6/93.

Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. 2004. A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia . 2nd Edition. Oxford University Press, Victoria.

O’Shea, M. 2005. Methods for assessment and techniques for management of striped legless lizard Delma impar populations in south-eastern Australia. PhD thesis, Victorian University, Melbourne.

Okologie Consulting 2016. Ecological Assessment: Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road Upgrade Project, Little River Ripley Road to Ballan Road. Unpublished report prepared for VicRoads - South Western Region. Torquay, Victoria.

Rohr, D.H. and Peterson, G.N.L. 2003. The Striped Legless Lizard in the Western District of Victoria: New Insights. Technical Report to the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority. Ecology Research Group: RMIT University, Melbourne.

Smith, W.J.S. & P. Robertson 1999. National Recovery Plan for the Striped Legless Lizard (Delma impar): 1999-2003. Environment Australia, Canberra, ACT

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 22 FIGURES

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 23 PARWAN

Ba lla n Rd

W d ilsons L R ane h rs a M s u h c c a B Davis - Road g n lo Scho e ol Road e G BALLIANG EAST

B luegum T rack d

B a

ll i a

d g

g r e

n Swa e

a mp i Roa k l d l

Birds Rd

S harkey Rd

BALLIANG

u QUANDONG

r s L h ittle

R iv er

d Gilmo res Road

Bufto ns Road

Li LITTLE RIVER ttle River - Ripley Rd

Figure 1 Legend Location of the Study Area Study Area Minor Watercourse Balliang

Targeted Survey for Striped ! ! ! Melbourne ¹ ! ! (! Legless Lizard Delma impar, ! Localities Permanent Waterbody Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Major Road Land Subject to Inundation 0 0.5 1 Road Km Collector Road Wetland/Swamp Minor Road Parks and Reserves VicMap Data: The State of Victoria does not warrant the accuracy or Crown Land completeness of information in this publication and any person using or relying upon such information does so on the basis that the State of Victoria shall bear no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors, faults, defects or omissions in the information.

8493_Fig01_StudyArea_b 11/04/2017 cbrowning (

!( TG4

Little Riv er !( TG3

TG2 !(

TG1 !(

Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

Figure 2 Legend Survey Sites and Results Targeted Survey for Striped Study Area !( Striped Legless Lizard Tile ¹ Grids Legless Lizard Delma impar, Native Vegetation (Okologie Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Consulting 2016) ( Striped Legless Lizard 0 200 400 Road Plains Grassland (NTGVVP) Recorded Metres Plains Grassland Plains Grassland (Modified) VicMap Data: The State of Victoria does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information in this publication and any person using or relying upon such information does so on the basis that the State of Victoria shall bear no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors, faults, defects or omissions in the information.

8493_Fig02_GridsResults 1/06/2017 cbrowning TG8 !(

h s r a

h c c a

TG(7 !(

(!( TG6

(!( TG5

!( TG4

Little Riv er !( TG3 Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

8493_Fig02_GridsResults 1/06/2017 cbrowning d R h rs a M s u h c c a B - g n lo e e G

!( TG10

!( TG9

TG8 !(

h s r a

h c c a

TG7 !( ( Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

8493_Fig02_GridsResults 1/06/2017 cbrowning d R h rs a M s u h c c a B - g n lo e e G

Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

8493_Fig02_GridsResults 1/06/2017 cbrowning (! 2011 (! (! (! 2011

(! 1990 (!

1990 (!

Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community (! Figure 3 Legend Local Records of Target Study Area Species Targeted Surveys for Striped (! Striped Legless Lizard Records ¹ Legless Lizard Delma impar (! Striped Legless Lizard Records (Current Study) and Growling Grass Frog 0 2.5 5 Litoria raniformis, Geelong- Kilometers Bacchus Marsh Road VicMap Data: The State of Victoria does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information in this publication and any person using or relying upon such information does so on the basis that the State of Victoria shall bear no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors, faults, defects or omissions in the information.

8493_Fig03_Records 11/04/2017 cbrowning APPENDICES

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 27 APPENDIX 1 - WEATHER CONDITIONS DURING THE FIELD SURVEYS

Table A1. Weather conditions during the field surveys

Temperature 9:00 AM 3:00 PM Average Average Average Rain temp. Date Survey Event Wind Wind temp. soil (mm) Temp. Relative Temp. Relative under tile Min (°C) Max (°C) speed speed above tile temp. (°C) humidity (%) (°C) humidity (%) (°C) (km/h) (km/h)

15/09/2016 Tile Grid Check 1 6.0 15.4 0.2 12.8 87 28 13.3 83 37 12.0 12.5 11.5

29/09/2016 Tile Grid Check 2 12.1 16.8 2.4 13.2 69 30 14.3 56 28 13.1 13.3 12.0

13/10/2016 Tile Grid Check 3 3.5 15.0 4.6 10.6 77 6 14.7 55 13 10.5 10.6 10.1

27/10/2016 Tile Grid Check 4 7.0 16.0 0.6 12.4 86 9 15.3 50 22 12.4 12.8 11.5

11/11/2016 Tile Grid Check 5 4.5 20.8 0.0 13.7 77 11 20.0 51 20 13.5 13.9 12.4

25/11/2016 Tile Grid Check 6 8.9 18.5 0.0 14.2 62 31 16.3 63 28 14.2 14.5 12.9

Source: Australian Bureau of Meteorology - Temperature, humidity, wind, and rainfall observations from Avalon Airport (Station 087113). http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDV60901/IDV60901.94854.shtml

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 28 APPENDIX 2 - PHOTOGRAPHS: TILE GRIDS

Plate A1: TG1 - tile deployment Plate A2: TG1 - tile collection Plate A3: TG2 - tile deployment

Plate A4: TG2 - tile collection Plate A5: TG3 - tile deployment Plate A6: TG3 - tile collection

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 29 Plate A7: TG4 - tile deployment Plate A8: TG4 - tile collection Plate A9: TG5 - tile deployment

Plate A10: TG5 - tile collection Plate A11: TG6 - tile deployment Plate A12: TG6 - tile collection

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 30 Plate A13: TG7 - tile deployment Plate A14: TG7 - tile collection Plate A15: TG8 - tile deployment

Plate A16: TG8 - tile collection Plate A17: TG9 - tile deployment Plate A18: TG9 - tile collection

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 31 Plate A19: TG10 - tile deployment Plate A20: TG10 - tile collection

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 32 APPENDIX 3 - SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Table A2. Significant impact assessment

Impact threshold Evaluation of activity and significance of impact

The recorded population within the study area isis considered considered an an ‘important ‘important population’, population’, as as defined defined under under the the Significant Significant Impact Impact Guidelines Guidelines (DoE (DoE 2013) 2013) and and Approved Approved Conservat Conservation Advice for Striped Legless Lizard (DoEE 2016b). The proposed upgrade works will result in the removal of approximately 4.5 hectares of habitat for the Striped Any action leading to a long-term decrease in the size of an important Legless Lizard, including 2.4 hectares of high quality NTGVVP. population of a species (DoE 2013). Given the proposed linear nature of clearing and extent of retained habitat, the proposed activity is unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of the existing Striped Legless Lizard population. A reduction in the area of occupancy of an important population (DoE The proposed upgrade works will decrease the area of occupancy of the important population by 4.5 hectares, which 2013). accounts for 15.9% of the available habitat recorded in the study area. The proposed removal of native grassland will be linear in nature, with relatively large areas of patches retained in The fragmentation of an existing important population into two or more most areas. Whilst the clearing will reduce the width of native grassland remnants in the road reserve and increase populations (DoE 2013). edge effects (i.e. weed incursion), no patches will be completely fragmented as a result of the proposed action. Any adverse affect on habitat critical to the survival of the species (DoE All areas of Plains Grassland within the study area meet the definition of critical habitat under the Approved 2013). Conservation Advice for Striped Legless Lizard (DoEE 2016b). Given the extent of retained habitat and linear nature of clearing, it is considered unlikely that the proposed activity Disruption to the breeding cycle of an important population (DoE 2013). will significantly affect the breeding cycle of the Striped Legless Lizard population. Modification, destruction, removal, isolation or decreasing the availability The permanent reduction in available habitat has the potential to lead to declines in the existing Striped Legless or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline (DoE Lizard population. 2013). Disturbance resulting in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable Assuming the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the proposed activity is unlikely to result in the species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat (DoE 2013). introductionintroduction or or spread spread of of invasive invasive species species which which may may harm harm the the Striped Striped Legless Legless Lizard Lizard population population (i.e. (i.e. cats cats or or foxes). foxes). Disease is not considered a key threat to Striped Legless Lizard populations. Introduction of disease that may cause the species to decline (DoE 2013). Assuming the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the proposed activity is unlikely to result in the introduction or spread of any disease that may adversely affect the environmental values. The permanent reduction of available habitat for Striped Legless Lizard (albeit minor in terms of retained habitat) is Interference with the recovery of the species (DoE 2013). inconsistent with the recovery actions currently in place to manage the species (Smith and Robertson 1999).

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 33 APPENDIX 4 - SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Table A3. Impacts and mitigation measures

Likelihood of a significant Residual risk with Likelihood of a significant Significant impact criteria (DSEWPaC Risk to species without Specific mitigation impact (with no mitigation mitigation measures impact (with mitigation 2011a) mitigation measures measures measures implemented) applied measures implemented)

The proposed upgrade Important population detected during works will result in the survey: any fragmentation, loss or long removal of approximately term modification of habitat that may 4.5 hectares of habitat for Moderate Refer to Section 5.3 Unaltered Moderate result in the population becoming non- the Striped Legless Lizard, viable or that may restrict breeding, including 2.4 hectares of dispersal or recruitment high quality NTGVVP. Important population not detected, An important population but site occurs in Natural Temperate was recorded through Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic recent targeted surveys. Plain (NTGVVP) : Removal or The project will result in High Refer to Section 5.3 Unaltered High modification of 0.5 hectares or more of the removal of 4.5 known habitat, or habitat that has a hectares of habitat for the moderate to high potential to support species, including 2.4 the species hectares of NTGVVP. If left unmitigated, the proposed upgrade works Introduction of threats, such as have the potential to introduced predators or weeds, which introduce weeds and pests may impact on or spread to an Low Refer to Section 5.3 None Low which are likely to important population or affect the adversely affect the species as a whole existing Striped Legless Lizard population.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 34 Likelihood of a significant Residual risk with Likelihood of a significant Significant impact criteria (DSEWPaC Risk to species without Specific mitigation impact (with no mitigation mitigation measures impact (with mitigation 2011a) mitigation measures measures measures implemented) applied measures implemented)

Whilst 4.5 hectares of habitat for Striped Legless Lizard would be removed, Limiting dispersal between populations the proposed clearing is or habitat patches, such as through restricted to linear strips. Low Refer to Section 5.3 Unaltered Low removal of a vegetated corridor or No patches will be creation of a physical barrier. completely fragmented/ isolated as a result of the proposed action. Habitat for Striped Legless Lizard within the study area ranges in quality from Changes in soil structure and terrestrial NTGVVP to modified Plains cover (such as removal of rocks and/or Grassland. The proposed High Refer to Section 5.3 Unaltered High fallen timber) in habitat supporting an works will directly remove important population. 4.5 hectares of habitat which includes native grass, exposed rocks and soil cracks.

Targeted Survey for Striped Legless Lizard - Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road 35