Vegetation Management Plan

ASSESSMENT REPORT AND VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK

June 2017

Printed copies are uncontrolled unless marked otherwise

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 1 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017

TRIM Document D17#387740 Number Project Manager Brian Nevin

Report Name and Position Document Date Compilation and Revision Review Author: Emma Fitzgerald Draft v1 13/6/2017 Environment Officer Reviewer: V Clarke 19/6/2017 Senior Environment Officer Author: Emma Fitzgerald Rev 0 20/6/2017 Environment Officer

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 2 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017

CONTENTS

SUMMARY ...... 4 1. ASSESSMENT SCOPE ...... 6 2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 6 2.1 PROJECT LOCATION ...... 6 3. METHODOLOGY ...... 9 3.1 PRELIMINARY DESKTOP STUDY ...... 9 3.2 DETAILED CLEARING IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 9 4. CLEARING OF NATIVE VEGETATION ...... 9 4.1 MEASURES TO AVOIDANCE AND MINIMISE CLEARING: ...... 9 4.2 EXISTING VEGETATION DETAILS ...... 10 4.3 ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE 10 CLEARING PRINCIPLES ...... 12 5. SUMMARY OF BIOLOGICAL SURVEYS ...... 20 6. ADDITIONAL PRE CLEARING ACTIONS REQUIRED ...... 23 7. STATEMENT ADDRESSING STAKEHOLDER SUBMISSIONS ...... 24 8. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ...... 25 9. OTHER STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...... 25 10. REFERENCES ...... 26 APPENDIX A DPAW THREATENED FLORA AND FAUNA DATABASE SEARCHES ...... 27 APPENDIX B STAKEHOLDER SUBMISSION RESPONSES ...... 28 APPENDIX C CONSULTATION WITH DAMIEN RATHBONE ...... 29 APPENDIX D VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 30 APPENDIX E SURVEY REPORT ...... 35

Attachment 1 Rathbone Botanical Surveys (2017) Biological Assessment South Coast Highway King River to Kalgan River 7.16 to 18.12 SLK. Unpublished Report prepared for Main Roads Western Australia-D17#236498

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 3 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 SUMMARY PROJECT INFORMATION

Project Title: SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK

Project location(s): This project occurs on South Coast Highway (SCH) between 8.2 and 14.16 SLK within the City of Albany.

Area proposed to be cleared: 1.3 hectares (ha).

Project purpose / components: This project involves the widening of SCH to create a 5 m construction zone and to upgrade culverts within this SLK range.

Temporary clearing required: None.

A detailed Assessment Report (AR) of the project clearing activities was undertaken. The AR outlined the key activities associated with the road project, the existing environment and an assessment of native vegetation clearing. This assessment provided an evaluation of the vegetation clearing impacts associated with the project using the ten Clearing Principles and strategies used to manage vegetation clearing. Key items associated with the clearing assessment are listed below.

KEY CLEARING IMPACT ASSESSMENT ASPECTS

 This project is o May be at variance to Principle (a) o May be at variance to Principle (b) due to the removal of 1.12 ha of foraging habitat and 9 potential breeding trees Black Cockatoo habitat o At variance to Principle (d) due to the removal of 0.2 ha of the EPBC Kwongkan community TEC. o At variance to Principle (f) due to the removal of 0.12ha of mapped riparian vegetation o May be at variance to Principle (h) due to the adjacent Bakers Junction Nature Reserve o Not likely at variance to the remaining Principles  This project involves the removal of 1.3 ha of native vegetation  A biological survey and dieback survey were completed for this project.  The submission period for this project is still open and this document will be updated once this period has closed.  Given the small, linear nature of the clearing and the good condition of the surrounding reserves an exemption request from completing an Offset will be sent to DER for approval.

The Assessment Report identified several environmental constraints associated with the proposed project activities. Further environmental approvals, permits or licences are needed for implementation of the project.

KEY VEGETATON MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

Project specific environmental management actions have been developed to manage all clearing impacts and these are outlined in the Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) provided in Appendix D.

 Where possible the clearing will be limited  An Environment Officer will remain on site when clearing activities are undertaken.  All important habitat trees will be demarcated to remain.  Any damage beyond the extent of the approvals will be rehabilitated.  Project area will be included in Main Roads annual weed program to ensure no new weed infestations particularly adjacent to the Nature Reserve.  Possum Management Plan will be implemented

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 4 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017  Dieback Management Plan will be implemented.

Main Roads State-wide Purpose Clearing Permit CPS 818 will be used to undertake native vegetation clearing for the project. Project clearing will be undertaken in accordance with the conditions of CPS 818 and detailed records of native vegetation clearing will be maintained as required under the permit.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 5 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 1. ASSESSMENT SCOPE

This environmental impact assessment involved a desktop analysis of environmental aspects and impacts, a site investigation, and an assessment of native vegetation clearing impacts. The study area is confined to a local area of a 10 km radius. This assessment determined the need to develop and obtain approvals from the Department of Environment Regulation (DER) for revegetation plans, vegetation management plans, dieback management plans or offset proposals.

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This project occurs on SCH between 8.2-8.94 and 9.78-14.16 SLK in the City of Albany. It is anticipated works will consist of limited vegetation pruning works to create a 5m construction zone at certain location on each side of the road to allow for Shoulder Widening and Sealing works ideally retaining the existing batters. It is anticipated therefore the works in this instance will consist primarily of limited pruning works.

Culvert extension works will be undertaken on unknown number of culverts to be determined once survey is complete from SLK 8.2 to SLK 14.16. Vegetation to be removed (pruned) to create a vegetation free zone 5m from concrete structures as per “Operational Guidelines 94” (Item 3.6 Drainage) and is also covered under RMIP “Vegetation Affecting Road Pavement”.

2.1 Project Location

The project area is located on SCH 8.2-14.16 SLK within the City of Albany. Start Latitude: -34.9379 Longitude: 117.9048

End Latitude: -34.9128 Longitude: 117.959

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 6 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 The project area is shown in Figure 1:

Figure 1 – Project Area

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 7 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 The location and boundaries of the study area (10 km radius) for the project are shown in Figure 2:

Figure 2 – Project Location and Study Area

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 8 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 3. METHODOLOGY

3.1 Preliminary Desktop Study

An initial preliminary desktop assessment was undertaken to assess the proposed native vegetation clearing and potential constraints associated with the project. The desktop assessment included viewing GIS shapefiles, reviewing government agency managed databases (where necessary) and consulting with relevant stakeholders. The outcome of the desktop study, identified that native vegetation clearing was at variance with one or more of the clearing principles.

3.2 Detailed Clearing Impact Assessment

Further environmental assessment of the impacts of native vegetation clearing was undertaken and an Assessment Report (AR) completed. The AR included a site visit to verify desktop information and a biological survey to delineate key environmental elements of the project area. A summary of the outcome of the survey is provided in Section 5. The methodology used for the biological survey is provided in the South Coast Highway King River to Kalgan River, 7.6 to 18.12 SLK Biological Survey report in D17#236498 (Rathbone 2017).

The methodology used when completing an assessment of the clearing principles is provided in Section 4.3. Mapping was completed using ArcGIS.

4. CLEARING OF NATIVE VEGETATION

Native vegetation describes all indigenous aquatic and terrestrial vegetation (living or dead). The term does not include vegetation that was intentionally sown, planted or propagated unless it was required under a statutory condition.

Apart from activities that are exempt under the clearing regulation (Section 5 – Prescribed Clearing), all native vegetation clearing completed by Main Roads WA will be undertaken using a permit.

4.1 Measures to Avoidance and Minimise Clearing:

Justification for how project design was chosen.  Feasibility of alignment and need to meet Australian standards.  Cost versus environmental constraints.

Explain how the clearing impacts have been avoided and minimised.  A small project construction footprint was developed to avoid adjacent vegetation in good condition located near the project area and the Bakers Junction Nature Reserve  The clearing area will be demarcated prior to the commencement of native vegetation clearing.  Where possible vegetation will be pruned as opposed to removed.  Significant habitat trees will be demarcated and remain after project completion.  Further project clearing will be avoided as the site office, materials storage areas, construction vehicles/machinery and access tracks will be located on previously disturbed or cleared areas.  The project design was refined to avoid clearing areas of vegetation in very good to good condition.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 9 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 4.2 Existing Vegetation Details

4.2.1 Project site vegetation description

Within the project area there are five vegetation units, as mapped by Rathbone (2016). These are:

Jarrah/Sheoak/E.staeri Sandy Woodland Woodlands of Jarrah/Sheoak/Eucalyptus staeri were recorded on mid slopes on deep white/grey sandy soils.

Areas in excellent condition are described as a woodland of Eucalyptus staeri, Eucalyptus marginata and Allocasuarina fraseriana over tall shrubland of Agonis theiformis, Hakea ruscifolia and Gompholobium scabrum over diverse low shrubland of Isopogon longifolia, Beaufortia anisandra, Adenanthos cuneatus, Leucopogon glabellus, Daviesia flexuosa, Daviesia incrassata, Hypocalymma strictum, Gompholobium venustum, Acacia browniana, Petrophile rigida, Boronia spathulata, Synaphea polymorpha and Hibbertia depressa over a sedgeland of Anarthria scabra, Cyathochaeta equitans, Tricostularia neesii, Anarthria prolifera and Schoenus caespititius.

Jarrah/Marri/Sheoak Laterite Forest Woodlands or forest of Jarrah/Marri/Sheoak were recorded on upper slopes and hill crests with gravel or outcropping laterite and loam or sandy soils.

Areas in excellent condition are described as a woodland or forest of Eucalyptus marginata, Corymbia calophylla, Eucalyptus staeri, and Allocasuarina fraseriana over tall shrubland of Banksia grandis, Hakea amplexicaulis and Persoonia longifolia over a shrubland of Agonis theiformis, Bossiaea linophylla, Beaufortia decussata, Taxandria parviceps, and Leucopogon verticillatus over a low shrubland of Xanthosia rotundifolia, Bossiaea ornata, Tetratheca setigera and Hovea chorizemifolia over a sedgeland (including forbs) of Anarthria prolifera, Tetraria octandra, Tetraria sp. Jarrah Forest, Desmocladus fascicularis and Patersonia umbrosa var. umbrosa.

Taxandria parviceps Transitional Shrubland Shrublands to closed shrublands of Taxandria parviceps were recorded on the margins of wetlands and lower slopes in deep grey sands.

Areas in excellent condition are described as isolated trees of Eucalyptus staeri, Banksia littoralis or Banksia quercifolia over a closed shrub of Taxandria parviceps over a low shrubland of Hakea ceratophylla, Adenanths obovatus, Beaufortia decussata and Sphaerolobium grandiflorum over a sedgeland of Anarthria scabra, Anarthria laevis, Mesomelaena gracilipes, Schoenus efoliatus, Schoenus acuminatus and Chordifex laxus. Herbs such as Drosera and Stylidium were common in this vegetation. Some long unburnt areas had a very tall and closed canopy. In more recently burnt areas, habitat for the Threatened orchid, Drakaea micrantha existed within this community.

Homalospermum firmum/Callistemon glaucus Peat Thicket Shrublands to closed shrublands of Homalospermum firmum and Callistemon glaucus were recorded in seasonally wet lower areas of broad drainage channels in leached grey sand with a heavy peat layer. These sites are waterlogged in winter and usually moist in summer.

Areas in excellent condition are described as a closed shrubland of Taxandria linearifolia Homalospermum firmum, Callistemon glaucus, Aotus intermedia, Hakea linearis, Taxandria parviceps, Sphaerolobium fornicatum and Acacia hastulata with a diverse sedgeland of Evandra aristata, Empodisma gracillimum, Gymnoschoenus anceps, Schoenus multiglumis, Leptocarpus tenax, Gahnia decomposita, Lepidosperma striatum and Xyris lanata. Standing water occurs within this community in the very lowest part of the valley profile, where Baumea rubiginosa, B. vaginalis and B. arthrophylla become dominant.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 10 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 Banksia coccinea Shrubland/Eucalyptus staeri/Sheoak Open Woodland Shrublands of Banksia coccinea with Eucalyptus staeri/Sheoak Open Woodland were recorded on lower slopes on the margin of seasonally wet drainage lines in white/light grey sands.

Areas in excellent condition are described as an open woodland or isolated trees of Eucalyptus staeri, Eucalyptus marginata and Allocasuarina fraseriana over a tall shrubland of Banksia coccinea and Taxandria parviceps over a mid-open shrubland of Jacksonia spinosa, Gompholobium scabrum, Melaleuca thymoides, Adenanthos cuneatus and Adenanthos obovatus over a dense sedgeland of Anarthria scabra and Anarthria prolifera. A high proportion of the species within this vegetation type are susceptible to Phytophthora Dieback, which is prevalent in the Survey Area. In areas of high disease impact the shrubland of Banksia coccinea becomes sparse or absent and the diversity of lower shrub species reduces.

For a full description of the existing vegetation, refer to the Biological Report in D17#236498.

Table 1: Summary of Project Area’s Mapped Pre-European Vegetation Associations Pre-European Vegetation Clearing Description Vegetation Comments Association(s) Condition Vegetation Association 3 Clearing of up to 1.3 ha for Degraded to very Vegetation description described as a Medium road widening on South good/excellent and condition forest: jarrah-marri Coast Highway, Albany. condition with the determined from Vegetation Association 51 majority of the Rathbone biological described as Sedgeland; vegetation in very survey and aerial reed swamps, occasionally good/excellent imagery. with heath condition (EPA, Vegetation Association 978 2016) described as Low forest; jarrah, Eucalyptus staeri & Allocasuarina fraseriana (Government of Western Australia, 2016)

Table 2: Vegetation Representation Pre–European Current % % Remaining Project Area (ha) Extent (ha) Remaining in DPaW reserves IBRA Region 4,506,660.26 2,416,018.14 53.61 69.17 Jarrah Forest Beard Vegetation Association 2,661,088.27 1,806,796.03 67.90 81.22 Statewide

Veg Assoc No. 3 Beard Vegetation Association In IBRA region 2,390,591.42 1,607,399.74 67.24 80.70 Veg Assoc No. 3 in the IRBA Jarrah Forest region Beard Vegetation Association 59,067.86 32,996.83 55.86 68.95 Statewide

Veg Assoc No. 51 Beard Vegetation Association In IBRA region 19,962.06 7,283.80 36.49 31.85 Veg Assoc No.51 in the IRBA Jarrah Forest region Beard Vegetation Association 53,126.37 19,015.06 35.79 26.53 Statewide

Veg Assoc No. 978 Beard Vegetation Association In IBRA region 53,016.57 18,912.33 35.67 26.57 Veg Assoc No. 978 in the IRBA Jarrah Forest region

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 11 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 Table 2: Vegetation Representation Local Government Authority 431,369.09 156,398.05 36.26 26.10 City of Albany

4.3 Assessment Against the 10 Clearing Principles

In assessing whether the project is likely to have a significant impact on the environment, the project was assessed against the ten clearing principles (EP Act 1986, Schedule 5).

The project is:  May be at variance to Principle (a) and (b)  At variance to Principle (d) and (f)  May be at variance to Principle (h)  Not likely to be at variance to the remaining clearing principles.

(a) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises a high level of biological diversity. Comments Proposed clearing may be at variance to this Principle

This project involves the clearing of up to 1.3ha of native vegetation. The vegetation is mapped as Vegetation Association 3 described as a Medium forest: jarrah-marri, Vegetation Association 51 described as Sedgeland; reed swamps, occasionally with heath and Vegetation Association 978 described as Low forest; jarrah, Eucalyptus staeri & Allocasuarina fraseriana (Government of Western Australia, 2016). The vegetation is in degraded to very good/excellent condition with the majority of the vegetation in very good/excellent condition (EPA, 2016). Five vegetation units were mapped during the detailed field survey (Rathbone 2016).

Within the study area there are known records of 12 declared rare flora (DRF) and 48 priority flora. It was determined during the biological survey that two DRF and five priority flora may occur in the survey area:  Drakaea micrantha (DRF)  Microtis globula (DRF)  Astartea transversa (P2)  Leucopogon alternifolius (P3)  Andersonia sp. Jamesii (P4)  Laxmannia jamesii (P4)  Lysinema lasianthum (P4).

Of these species only Astartea was identified within the survey area, however these individuals occurred within the adjacent wetland within the Bakers Junction Nature Reserve and are approximately 26 m to the north of the proposed clearing area. As such they are unlikely to be impacted. None of the remaining species were identified on site though the two DRF, the Laxmannia and Lysinema are inconspicuous species that weren’t flowering at the time of survey. Further discussions with the botanist identified that the two DRF and the P4 Lysinema lasianthum are unlikely to be in the proposed clearing area (Appendix C).

Within the study area there are records of 61 known protected fauna species. Of these species only the Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo and Western Ringtail Possum will be impacted. As there is a large amount of vegetation remaining in the areas including in nearby reserves and that vegetation will remain in the road corridor it is unlikely that any linkages or corridors will be impacted. Therefore this project is unlikely to have significant impacts on any other fauna species or fauna habitat.

Within the study area there are known records of two Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) and one Priority Ecological Communities (PECs). These are:  Banksia coccinea Shrubland/Eucalyptus staeri/Sheoak Open Woodland (Community 14a - Sandiford & Barrett 2010)(all/or portion in EPBC listed Kwongkan community)- Endangered

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 12 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017  Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh-Vulnerable  Astartea scoparia Swamp Thicket-Priority 1

However, it was identified from the biological surveys that the only the Commonwealth listed “Proteaceae Dominated Kwongkan Shrublands of the Southeast Coastal Floristic Province of Western Australia” is within the clearing area and removal of up to 0.2 ha is proposed.

Given the removal of 0.2ha of the EPBC Kwongkan community TEC and 1.12ha of foraging habitat and 9 potential breeding trees for Black Cockatoo habitat this project clearing potentially represents an area of high biodiversity. However the proposed clearing area is small and linear. It is not in better condition or representative of an area of higher biodiversity value than the area surrounding. Therefore this project clearing is may be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo DPAW shapefiles gy Biological Survey (March, 2017) MRWA GIS Shapefiles EPA (2016) Government of WA (2013)

(b) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises the whole or a part of, or is necessary for the maintenance of, a significant habitat for fauna indigenous to Western Australia. Comments Proposed clearing may be at variance to this Principle

Within the study area there are known records of 61 protected fauna species. The biological survey identified that there were 11 conservation species that could potentially occur in the area. These are:  Botaurus poiciloptilus (Australasian Bittern)-Threatened  Calyptorhynchus latirostris (Carnaby's Cockatoo)-Threatened  Calyptorhynchus baudinii (Baudin's Cockatoo)-Threatened  Calyptorhynchus banksii naso (Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo)-Threatened  Pseudocheirus occidentalis (Western Ringtail Possum)-Threatened  Phascogale tapoatafa subsp. tapoatafa (Southern Brush-tailed Phascogale) - Threatened  Setonix brachyurus (Quokka) -Threatened  Dasyornis longirostris (Western Bristlebird) -Threatened  Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. novaehollandiae (Masked Owl)-Priority 3  Macropus irma (Western Brush Wallaby)-Priority 4  Isodon obesulus subsp. fusciventer (Southern Brown Bandicoot)-Priority 5

The Australasian Bittern inhabits densely freshwater wetlands. There are two locations within the survey that were identified as potential habitat for this species. This is tall Baumea sedgeland surrounded by a 2-3m thicket of Taxandria linearifolia and T. parviceps. There was 0.33 ha identified within the survey but only 0.01 ha is being removed by this project. As such it is unlikely that this species will be significantly impacted by the project activities.

The project area is within the known distribution and predicted breeding range of the Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Baudin’s Cockatoo and Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo. During the survey a flock of Carnaby’s and several flocks of Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoos were sighted flying over the area and evidence of foraging by Carnaby’s and Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoos was identified on Banksias and Marris within the project area. Foraging/potential breeding habitat is within the Eucalyptus woodland/forest and Banksia shrublands of the proposed clearing area. Within the survey a total of 435 trees were identified as potential breeding trees and 60 of these had current or potential breeding trees. Within the proposed clearing area up to 10 of these potential breeding trees will be removed and only two of these contain hollows. One hollow is too small to be considered usable. The second hollow is a medium size and could be a current or potential useable hollow. This tree has potential breeding capacity and as such will demarcated by Main Roads to ensure it is not removed. It is unlikely that the removal of 1.12 ha of foraging habitat and 9 potential breeding trees, only one with a hollow which is too small

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 13 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 to be used, will significantly impact Black Cockatoos locally or regionally due to the amount of similar trees identified in the survey and the excellent condition vegetation that is remaining in the neighbouring conservation area. The Bakers Junction Nature Reserve is over 1000 ha and includes foraging habitat. This means the foraging habitat that is to be removed for the project is approximately 0.1% of the available habitat in the immediate area. As the project area is adjacent to the existing road it is unlikely to be critical habitat and as such these cockatoo species are unlikely to be significantly impacted by the project activities.

During this survey it was identified that the Western Ringtail Possum would be able to find appropriate habitat within the project area and use it as a corridor. Several scat accumulations and dreys were found within the project area and one tree with a hollow showed evidence of use by a possum. This tree will be demarcated and not removed as part of the project activities. This project area presents habitat for the Western Ringtail Possum and as such Main Roads is commissioning a WRP Management Plan (by WRP local expert Dr Sandra Gilfillan) that will be implemented during the project lifespan (clearing/construction). It is unlikely that the proposed clearing area represents significant habitat for this species as only a small linear section of habitat will be removed from the edge of an existing road. The remainder of the road reserve and the adjacent conservation area will remain and will continue to provide habitat of the same quality or better. This species will be able to utilise the surrounding area for habitat and corridors between nearby conservation areas. Therefore this project is unlikely to significantly impact this species.

The Southern Brush-tailed Phascogale and Masked Owl inhabit woodland and open forests. There were trees of suitable size with hollows within the survey area but none of these will be impacted by the project activities. Therefore this species is unlikely to be protected by the project area.

The Quokka has the potential to occur within the project area as the required habitat is available within the drainage lines. However coastal habitats such as this are generally denser and gullies more deeply incised than the project area. While the Quokka has the potential to occur within the area it is unlikely to be impacted by the project activities as such a small area is to be removed in degraded to completely degraded (EPA, 2016) condition. The species could locate habitat in the vegetation remaining in the surrounding area and this mobile species is unlikely to be significantly impacted by the project activities.

The Western Bristlebird has the potential to occur as the project area presents potential habitat. However this species has been found to be locally restricted to Two-Peoples Bay and Hassell (Cheyne) Beach area so it is unlikely to be impacted by the proposed activities.

The Western Brush Wallaby has the potential to inhabit fragmented habitat in Bakers Junction Nature Reserve. However as the works are contained to the road reserve it is unlikely that this species will be impacted by this project.

The Southern Brown Bandicoot occurs in wet or dry sclerophyll forest through to open woodland and scrubby, dense vegetation on sandy soils. This species was identified walking through the survey area and evidence of its presence was found within the survey area, particularly in the E.staeri woodlands and Banksia shrublands. There is 0.52ha of vegetation that could present habitat to this mobile species.

As the project area is a small linear area next to the existing road and that a large amount of vegetation will remain in the area particularly in the neighbouring reserve it is unlikely that this habitat represents significant habitat for any species. There will be vegetation remaining in the road reserve that can allow movement of species between remnant vegetation within the area and as such it is unlikely that this project will impact any linkages in the area.

Given the removal of 1.12ha of foraging habitat and 9 potential breeding trees Black Cockatoo habitat this project clearing may be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo DPAW Shapefiles gy DPAW website Biological Survey (March, 2017) Aerial photography

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 14 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017

(c) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it includes, or is necessary for the continued existence of, rare flora. Comments Proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle

Within the study area are known records of 12 declared rare flora. These are:  Acacia prismifolia  Banksia brownii  Banksia goodii  Banksia verticillata  Calectasia cyanea  Caladenia harringtoniae  Chordifex abortivus  Conostylis misera  Drakaea micrantha  Isopogon uncinatus  Microtis globula  Verticordia fimbrilepis subsp. australis

Of these flora the biological survey identified that only two, Drakaea micrantha and Microtis globula, could potentially occur in the project area as the correct habitat is present and it is known from the area. These species have the potential to occur within the wetland and adjacent lower slopes in Bakers Junction Nature Reserve. The lack of recent fire events exclude the presence of Microtis globula and Drakaea micrantha species was not flowering at the time of the survey potentially constraining observing individuals.

South coast flora expert Damien Rathbone conducted the original detailed biological survey of the project area. Upon further discussions with Damien (Appendix C) he advised that given how small the footprint is it is unlikely that either species will be present in the project area or will be impacted by the project activities.

Given the above this project clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Clearing Principle.

Methodolo DPAW shapefiles gy Biological Survey (March, 2017)

(d) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises the whole or a part of, or is necessary for the maintenance of a threatened ecological community. Comments Proposed clearing is at variance to this Principle

Within the study area there is records of two known Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs). These are:  Banksia coccinea Shrubland/Eucalyptus staeri/Sheoak Open Woodland (Community 14a - Sandiford & Barrett 2010)(all/or portion in EPBC listed Kwongkan community)- Endangered  Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh-Vulnerable The Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh TEC is unlikely to be present in the area as the correct vegetation type is present. Therefore this TEC is unlikely to be impacted by the project activities.

During the biological survey it was identified that one of the vegetation units within the project area is consistent with the Proteaceae Dominated Kwongkan Shrublands of the Southeast Coastal Floristic Province of Western Australia Threatened Ecological Community (TEC). There will only be 0.2ha of this TEC removed as part of this project. Given the small amount of clearing, that this vegetation is adjacent to the roads edge and is the edge of the much larger Bakers Junction Nature Reserve it is unlikely that this TEC will be significantly impacted by the project.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 15 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 Given the removal of 0.2 ha of the EPBC Kwongkan community TEC this project clearing is at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo DPAW shapefiles gy Biological Survey (March, 2017)

(e) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it is significant as a remnant of native vegetation in an area that has been extensively cleared. Comments Proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle

The project proposes to clear up to 1.3ha of native vegetation. The project is mapped as Vegetation Association 3 described as a Medium forest: jarrah-marri, Vegetation Association 51 described as Sedgeland; reed swamps, occasionally with heath and Vegetation Association 978 described as Low forest; jarrah, Eucalyptus staeri & Allocasuarina fraseriana (Government of Western Australia, 2016). The vegetation ranges from Degraded to very good/excellent condition with the majority of the vegetation in very good/excellent condition (EPA, 2016).

Pre– Current % % Remaining in Project Area European Extent (ha) Remaini DPaW reserves (ha) ng IBRA Region 4,506,660.26 2,416,018.14 53.61 69.17 Jarrah Forest Statewide 2,661,088.27 1,806,796.03 67.90 81.22 Veg Assoc No. 3

Veg Assoc No. 3 in the IRBA 2,390,591.42 1,607,399.74 67.24 80.70 Jarrah Forest region

Statewide 59,067.86 32,996.83 55.86 68.95 Veg Assoc No. 51

Veg Assoc No.51 in the IRBA 19,962.06 7,283.80 36.49 31.85 Jarrah Forest region

Statewide 53,126.37 19,015.06 35.79 26.53 Veg Assoc No. 978

Veg Assoc No. 978 in the 53,016.57 18,912.33 35.67 26.57 IRBA Jarrah Forest region

Local Government Authority 431,369.09 156,398.05 36.26 26.10 City of Albany

The national objectives and targets for biodiversity conservation in Australia has a target to prevent clearance of ecological communities with an extent below 30 per cent of that present pre-1750, below which species loss appears to accelerate exponentially at an ecosystem level (Commonwealth of Australia, 2001). None of the vegetation types mapped within the proposed clearing area occur at below the 30 per cent threshold (Government of Western Australia, 2016).

Up to 1.3 ha of vegetation will be cleared along an approximately 6km stretch of road. There is vegetation that will be left remaining in the surrounding area particularly in the nature reserve located to the north of the project. The vegetation in the surrounding area is similar in composition and is in the same or better condition that the project area. Since only a small linear section of vegetation will be removed adjacent to an existing road it is unlikely that the removal of this vegetation will reduce ecological functioning or is an area that provides linkages.

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Given the above this project clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle as the clearing does not represent an area that is significant as a remnant; its removal will not significantly impact linkage in the local landscape; nor is it in an extensively cleared landscape.

Methodolo EPA (2016) gy Biological Survey (March, 2017) Government of Western Australia (2016) Aerial photography

(f) Native vegetation should not be cleared if it is growing in, or in association with, an environment associated with a watercourse or wetland. Comments Proposed clearing is at variance to this Principle

Within the study area there are numerous major and minor non perennial watercourses mapped. Three of these minor non-perennial watercourses intersect the project area. There is one wetland that intersects the project area from 10.67-12.96 SLK; this is the Johnston Creek conservation class palusplain wetland.

Riparian vegetation associated with these watercourses and wetland will be removed as part of these project activities. The wetland is approximately 764ha in size and 4.18ha of this wetland intersects the project envelope. The watercourses are 4.5km, 2.6km and 6.8km in length and approximately 20m of each of these watercourses intersect the project area. The biological survey identified that three of the vegetation types mapped were representative of riparian vegetation. These units were:  Taxandria parviceps Transitional Shrubland,  Homalospermum firmum/Callistemon glaucus Peat Thicket  Melaleuca preissiana Low Woodland

There is approximately 0.12ha of this vegetation that will need to be removed as part of this project and therefore the proposed clearing is at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo DoW and DPAW shapefiles gy Biological Survey (March, 2017)

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 17 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 (g) Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to cause appreciable land degradation. Comments Proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle

Aspect Degradation Risk Wind Erosion 3-10%, 30-50%, 50-70% Waterlogging <3%, 3-10%, 10-30%, 50-70% Water Erosion <3%, 3-10%, 10-30% Salinity <3% Flood Risk <3%, 3-10%, 10-30%

From the table above it is clear that the majority of the degradation risks in the area are low except for wind erosion and water logging.

The project area contains predominately sandy soils that have high infiltration rates; however there are small areas that have a heavy peat layer which will have a higher infiltration rate. This will mean that the chances of water erosion or waterlogging will be moderate. It is unlikely that water erosion/waterlogging will be a significant issue given the flat topography of the area. As the area is surrounded by vegetation and the project area will be mainly sealed the chances of wind erosion will be fairly low. Only a small amount of clearing will be needed (1.3ha) for this project so it is unlikely land degradation will be significantly increased by this project. As there is no dewatering or excavation below the water table it is unlikely acid sulfate soils will become a risk.

Given the above this proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo GIS shapefiles gy Biological Survey (March, 2017)

(h) Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to have an impact on the environmental values of any adjacent or nearby conservation area. Comments Proposed clearing may be at variance to this Principle

Within the study area there are 13 conservation areas/reserves. These are:  5 un-named reserves  Bakers Junction Nature Reserve  Bon Accord Road Nature Reserve  Green Island Nature Reserve  Gull Rock National Park  Mill Brook Nature Reserve  Mount Mason Nature Reserve  Voyagers Park  West Mount Mason Nature Reserve.

The nearest of these reserves is the Bakers Junction Nature Reserve which occurs adjacent to the north side of the road from 11-14.16 SLK. As the project area is contained to the road reserve, the proposed clearing is unlikely the reserve. To ensure indirect impacts such as weeds do not affect the conservation area, management measures will be put in place to minimise any potential indirect impacts to conservation areas.

Given the above the clearing may be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo DPAW shapefiles gy

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 18 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 (i) Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to cause deterioration in the quality of surface or underground water. Comments Proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle

The project will not change the hydrology of the area. Management measures will be put in place to minimise the potential impacts to this wetland and watercourse. As no surface water will be taken for this project and due to the minor nature of the works it is unlikely that there will be a significant impact to the water quality of this area. Given the small scale of clearing and that no dewatering or drainage modifications are required; it is considered that there will be very little to no deterioration of underground water quality. The drainage of the road will ensure that any runoff from the road will be captured and transported away from the wetland. As such a small percentage of the wetland will be impacted and as the wetland is intersected by the current road it is unlikely that the widening required for this project will significantly impact this wetland.

Given the above it is unlikely that this project will cause deterioration in the quality of surface or underground water. Therefore this project is considered not likely to be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo Biological Survey (March, 2017) gy DoW and DPAW shapefiles

(j) Native vegetation should not be cleared if clearing the vegetation is likely to cause, or exacerbate, the incidence or intensity of flooding. Comments Proposed clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle

This project proposes to clear up to 1.3 ha of vegetation over an approximately 6km stretch of road. This project area is within a corridor of remnant vegetation and vegetation will remain in the road reserve and adjacent areas once the project is complete. As such the removal of such a small area of vegetation makes it unlikely that the incidence or intensity of flooding will increase. NRM SLIP identifies that the area has <3-30% risk of flooding in the area.

Given the small amount of clearing, that vegetation will remain in the surrounding area and that the project area will be sealed it is unlikely that this project will cause or exacerbate the incidence or intensity of flooding. Therefore this project clearing is not likely to be at variance to this Principle.

Methodolo GIS shapefiles gy

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 19 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 5. SUMMARY OF BIOLOGICAL SURVEYS

There was a biological survey commissioned through Damien Rathbone for this project. The executive summary of the survey is outlined below:

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MAIN ROADS Western Australia 22 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 6. ADDITIONAL PRE CLEARING ACTIONS REQUIRED

The following table summarises what further pre-clearing impact assessment and vegetation management is required in accordance with CPS 818.

Table 3: Summary of Additional Management Actions Impact of Clearing Yes/No Further Action Required or NA 1. The AR indicates that the clearing Yes 1. A Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) is is ‘Seriously at Variance’, At required to be approved by DER. The VMP must be Variance’ or ‘May be at Variance’ approved prior to undertaking clearing of the area to with one or more of the clearing which the VMP is related principles. 2. An offset proposal is required to be approved by DER. Due to the small linear nature of the project and the good condition of surrounding area an exemption from an offset proposal will be sought from DER.

2. The AR indicates that the clearing No No further action required. is at variance or may be at variance with clearing principle (g) land degradation, (i) surface or underground water quality or (j) the incidence of flooding.

3. The project involves clearing for No No further action required. temporary works (as defined by the permit under Condition 11 of CPS 818).

4a. The project is in part of a region Yes 4a. that has annual rainfall greater than Go to number 4b. 400mm and is south of the 26th parallel of latitude. 4b. 4b. The project will require Yes A Dieback Management Plan (DMP) must be prepared movement of soil in conditions other in consultation with DPAW and approved by DER prior than dry conditions. to clearing the area to which the DMP is related.

5. The proposal requires referral to No No further action required. either the WA EPA or the Commonwealth DotEE.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 23 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 7. STATEMENT ADDRESSING STAKEHOLDER SUBMISSIONS

Main Roads invited submissions from specified stakeholders, in accordance with condition 7 of CPS 818. Table 4 identifies the stakeholders who were contacted regarding the impacts of the proposed clearing associated with the project. Copies of all submissions can be found in Appendix C.

Table 4: Summary of Submissions Received from Stakeholders Name Position Agency Submission Received James Widenbar Manager DER, Native Vegetation Conservation Branch Dennis Wellington Mayor City of Albany

Piers Verstegen Director Conservation Council of WA Manager Department of Water Andrew Watson Commissioner Department of Agriculture and of Soil and Food Western Australia Land Conservation Sarah Comer Regional DPaW Ecologist

The submission period is yet to close. This document will be updated upon the end of the submission period.

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Main Roads will avoid clearing native vegetation where possible. Where clearing cannot be avoided then this clearing is kept to a minimum. A Vegetation Management Plan has been developed to manage and minimise vegetation clearing for the project (refer Appendix D).

9. OTHER STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

Table 6: Other Stakeholder Consultation

Name Agency Date Comments Sarah Comer DPaW 22/5/2017 Discussions around Western Ringtail Possums

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 25 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 10. REFERENCES

Beeston, G.R., Hopkins, A.J.M. and Shepherd, D.P. (2002). Land-use and vegetation in Western Australia. Department of Agriculture, Western Australia, Resource Management Technical Report 250.

Department of the Environment and Energy. (2017). Protected Matters Search Tool Report. Available online from: http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html / Accessed 16/5/2017.

Department of the Environment and Energy. (2017). Species Profile and Threats Database. Available online from: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl / Accessed 18/5/2017.

Department of Natural Resources and Environment (2002) Biodiversity Action Planning. Action planning for native biodiversity at multiple scales; catchment bioregional, landscape, local. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

Environmental Protection Authority (2016). Technical Guide – Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment (eds. K Freeman, G Stack, S Thomas and N Woolfrey). Perth, Western Australia.

Government of Western Australia. (2014). 2014 Statewide Vegetation Statistics incorporating the CAR Reserve Analysis (Full Report). Current as of June 2014. Department of Parks and Wildlife, Perth, Western Australia.

Havel, J.J. and Mattiske, E.M. (2000) Vegetation Mapping of South West Forest Regions of Western Australia. Prepared for CALMSCIENCE, Department of Conservation and Land Management and Environment Australia

Rathbone Botanical Surveys (2017) Biological Assessment South Coast Highway King River to Kalgan River 7.16 to 18.12 SLK. Unpublished Report prepared for Main Roads Western Australia

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 26 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 Appendix A

DPaW Threatened Flora and Fauna Database Searches

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Stakeholder Submission Responses

This section will be updated upon the closure of the submission period

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Consultation with Damien Rathbone

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 29 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 Appendix D

Vegetation Management Plan SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK

Introduction This Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) has been prepared by Main Roads for the purpose of managing native vegetation clearing impacts associated with the project. In specified circumstances, Main Roads VMP is required to be approved by DER as a condition of Main Roads Statewide Clearing Permit CPS 818.

Scope of the Vegetation Management Plan The VMP highlights the key project management issues and provides actions required to be undertaken by Main Roads before, during and following project completion. The aim of the VMP is to provide actions to manage the clearing impacts, to allocate areas of responsibility required for the implementation of management actions identified and to provide mechanisms to report on compliance with those actions. Timeframes for the completion of actions and monitoring are also provided.

When preparing the VMP an emphasis has been placed on management actions regarding the native vegetation clearing impacts, being determined by the variance level to the clearing principles (‘Seriously at Variance’, ‘At Variance’ and ‘May be at Variance’).

The VMP actions will be incorporated into the project specific Environmental Management Plan (EMP). Construction contractors are also required to comply with Main Roads’ standard environmental management contract specifications (required for Type C and D projects).

Vegetation clearing activities are required to be undertaken in accordance with the environmental management measures detailed in Main Roads Specifications 204 (Environment), 301 (Clearing) and 302 (Earthworks), 304 (Revegetation and Landscaping). All revegetation activities should be completed in accordance with Main Roads Environmental Guideline Revegetation Planning and Techniques. Topsoil will also be managed according to Main Roads Topsoil Management Guideline.

Scope of the Project Activities This project occurs on SCH between 8.2-8.94 and 9.78-14.16 SLK in the City of Albany. It is anticipated works will consist of limited vegetation pruning works to create a 5m construction zone at certain location on each side of the road to allow for Shoulder Widening and Sealing works ideally retaining the existing batters. It is anticipated therefore the works in this instance will consist primarily of limited pruning works.

Communication Native vegetation clearing and vegetation management will be communicated at induction, toolbox and/or contract meetings. Information located in the VMP will be communicated to all project and construction personnel, (including sub-contractors) prior to the commencement of project activities and during all phases of project implementation. Where necessary, Main Roads will liaise with the DER to obtain further advice regarding vegetation management

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PERSONS NAME PERSONS ROLE CONTACT DETAILS

Brian Nevin Project Manager 9892 0556 [email protected] Alix Chinnery Environment Officer 9323 6390 [email protected]

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VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN Project Responsible Completion Management Action Monitoring/Maintenance Program Component Person Timeframe Standard Vegetation Clearing and Fauna Management

 Minimise vegetation clearing within the approved clearing envelope  Extent of clearing for project is Within one week where possible and by utilising existing cleared area where recorded within one week and entered Environment once clearing has possible. in CERR or EOS, once it is available. Officer been completed  One compliance inspection will occur  At the pre-start meeting (or equivalent) – Provide clear maps (and prior to clearing. Record sheet will be spatial data) indicating the areas approved to be cleared (limited to Project Prior to clearing signed at the pre-start meeting by all the project area described in the ECD) to the crew undertaking the Manager commencing personnel and emailed to the clearing works. Environment Officer. Project  Have on site, and comply with actions of the ECD (which includes  One compliance inspection will occur Manager / Prior to clearing the VMP commitments/actions) prior to clearing. Environment commencing Officer  One compliance inspection will occur Project  All vegetation proposed to be cleared will be demarcated on site prior to clearing. Site will be driven / Manager / Prior to clearing prior to the commencement of project activities. walked to ensure site is marked out Environment commencing  ‘No go’ trees that are to be retained will be marked accordingly. Avoid and and is ready for clearing. Officer manage project  One compliance inspection will occur clearing within two weeks once clearing has  Vegetation shall be conserved as far as practicable, and shall not Project been completed. The project area will Within two weeks be disturbed for such temporary works as side tracks, access Manager / be driven/walked to ensure the extent once clearing has tracks, temporary storage areas, campsites, spoil areas or site Environment of clearing was not exceeded and been completed offices. Officer where possible/safe mature trees retained.  Any over clearing shall be recorded and reported immediately to  One compliance inspection will occur Environment Branch. within one week once clearing has Project Within one week  Any damage caused (beyond the extent of approvals) during the been completed. The project area will Manager / once clearing has construction to vegetation, landforms, or fauna habitat shall be be driven to ensure no damage to Environment been completed rehabilitated to the pre-clearing condition in consultation with the vegetation, landforms or habitats Officer Environment Officer. occurred during construction.  One compliance inspection will occur  Burning of cleared vegetative materials or burning within the road Project within two weeks once clearing has Within two weeks reserve will not be permitted under any circumstances. Manager / been completed. The project area will once clearing has  Cleared vegetation will be used during any rehabilitation activities Environment be driven to ensure the extent of been completed and mulched & respread. Officer clearing was not exceeded.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 32 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN Project Responsible Completion Management Action Monitoring/Maintenance Program Component Person Timeframe  One compliance inspection will occur within one week of the Project  Clearing activities must be completed in accordance with Main Within two weeks commencement of clearing. The Manager / Roads Specifications: 204 (Environment), 301 (Clearing), 302 once clearing has project area will be examined to Environment (Earthworks). Specifications are available from iRoads link. been completed ensure clearing activities comply with Officer MRWA specifications.  Commence clearing in such a way as to allow fauna to move out of the clearing area if possible Management  Conduct inspection of potential cockatoo breeding trees prior to Action - Project  Monitoring will be undertaken through Avoid and clearing Manager the corporate audit process and manage impacts  Ensure habitat trees to be protected are marked Project lifespan/ remedial actions managed through to fauna.  No pets, traps or firearms are allowed within the project area. Monitoring ongoing Main Roads internal incident Program –  Fauna are not to be fed or intentionally harmed or killed. management process.  In the event that sick, injured or orphaned native wildlife are Environment located on the project site, the WILDCARE Helpline ((08) 9474 Branch 9055) will be contacted for assistance. Compliance inspection during clearing Environment Clearing & Dieback  Conform with Dieback Management Plan actions and requirements and construction Officer construction  Ensure no weed affected soil; mulch; fill or other material is brought into the area cleared.  Prior to clearing  Restrict movement of machines and other vehicles to the limits of  EO to undertake compliance audit  Within five Weed the areas cleared.  One annual compliance inspection Project years from Management  Remove or kill any serious environmental weeds growing in project undertaken to manage spread of Manager commencement area that are likely to spread and result in environmental harm to weeds. of clearing adjacent areas of native vegetation that are in good or better condition. Standard Record Keeping Management Maintain the following records for the areas cleared: Records maintained  Monitoring will be undertaken through  a map and an ESRI Shapefile showing the location of the areas during construction the corporate audit process and Record Keeping cleared ; Environment and finalised within remedial actions managed through - Clearing  the size of the area cleared (in hectares); and Officer 4 weeks of the Main Roads internal incident the dates on which the clearing was done in day/month/year completion of  management process. format. clearing. Records maintained Maintain the following records for the project area: during vegetation  the location of the area to which the VMP has had action applied;  Monitoring will be undertaken through management  an ESRI Shapefile showing the locations of the areas of clearing the corporate audit process and activities and Record Keeping Environment for project activities; remedial actions managed through finalised within 4 – VMP Officer  a description of the management actions implemented; and Main Roads internal incident weeks of all  the size of the area to which the management actions were applied management process. management plan (in hectares). actions being completed.

MAIN ROADS Western Australia 33 of 35 SCH Widening 8.2-14.16 SLK-Assessment Report &VMP 13 June 2017 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PLAN Project Responsible Completion Management Action Monitoring/Maintenance Program Component Person Timeframe Standard Monitoring Actions Within 4 weeks of  Monitoring will be undertaken through revegetation plan the corporate audit process and Monitor compliance with the ECD Environment and/or offset Monitoring remedial actions managed through Officer proposals Main Roads internal incident successful management process. completion.  Where possible avoid and limit the amount of clearing within the  1 compliance inspection will occur post Project Completion of project area. clearing. Monitoring will consist of Manager construction. Principle (a) - driving/walking the project area to Biodiversity  An Environment Officer will remain on site when clearing activities are undertaken. ensure that the amount of clearing is minimised.  Environment Officer to be on site during clearing  One compliance inspection to check Environment Within 4 weeks of all Principle (b) –  Important habitat trees to be retained will be accordingly marked installation of artificial hollows. Officer artificial hollow Fauna  Possum Management Plan will be implemented and adhered to. installation being completed Principle (d) –  Environment Officer to be on site during clearing in TEC or TEC  1 compliance inspection will occur Project Prior to clearing Threatened buffer. when clearing is complete. Monitoring Manager / commencing Ecological will consist of driving/walking the Environment Communities project area to ensure that the amount Officer (TEC) of clearing is minimised.  Environment Officer to be on site during clearing in  One compliance inspection will Project Prior to clearing watercourse/wetland areas. occur prior to clearing. The project Manager commencing. site will be driven to ensure all areas of riparian vegetation have been fenced. Principle (f) – Project Monitoring - within Wetland /  All damage caused (beyond the extent of approvals) during the  One compliance inspection will Manager three months of watercourses construction to riparian vegetation habitat shall be rehabilitated occur prior to clearing. The project to the pre-clearing condition. site will be driven to ensure all project completion. areas of riparian vegetation have been demarcated and ready for clearing to commence.

 Include project area in annual weed hygiene and control  1 compliance inspection of weed Project Project lifespan measures to prevent new weed infestations from occurring infestations will occur after works Manager Principle (h) – within the project area and the spread of existing weeds. are complete. Conservation  Ongoing monitoring will occur as estate part of Main Roads surveillance programs.

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Appendix E Survey Report

See D17#236498

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