contract no. 10.2544.1628 devils pulpit – pacific highway ... · pdf fileprocedure for...

of 43 Uncontrolled when Printed

CLEARING AND GRUBBING PLAN

Rev Date Version Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by

A 18/8/2011 draft S.Gleeson-Willey G.Bolton P. Mouton

B 21/09/2011 draft RTA, PES A. Boyd

C 11/10/2011 draft DP&I A. Boyd

D 28/10/2011 draft OEH A. Boyd

E 16/11/11 draft DSEWPAC A. Boyd

F 20/01/12 draft DP&I A. Boyd

0 10/02/2012 Approved for use

All of the above Director General of DP&I

Minister of DSEWPAC

Contract No. 10.2544.1628 Devils Pulpit – Pacific Highway Upgrade


CONTENTS

1. SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................. 3

1.1 References ................................................................................................................................................... 4

1.2 Glossary ....................................................................................................................................................... 5

2. SITE CHARACTERISTICS .............................................................................................................................. 5

3. CLEARING REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................................ 5

4. OBJECTIVES AND GOALS ............................................................................................................................ 8

5. SPECIALISED ROLES ASSOCIATED WITH CLEARING OPERATIONS .................................................... 9

6. HOLD POINTS FOR CLEARING AND GRUBBING ACTIVITIES ................................................................ 10

7. PROCEDURE FOR CLEARING AND GRUBBING ...................................................................................... 10

7.1 Prior to commencement of clearing works: ................................................................................................ 10

7.2 Ecologists assigned work tasks for the clearing and grubbing procedure ................................................. 11

7.3 Sequence of Clearing ................................................................................................................................. 12

7.4 For removal of vegetation without fauna habitat structures ....................................................................... 13

7.5 For removal of vegetation with fauna habitat structures ............................................................................ 14

8. CLEARING AND GRUBBING PERMIT ........................................................................................................ 16

9. APPENDIX 1 – PLAN SHOWING PREVIOUSLY SURVEYED HOLLOW BEARING TREES AND CLEARING BOUNDARIES FOR THE PERMANENT ROAD FORMATION ................................................ 21


1. SCOPE This plan details the requirements and specification for clearing and grubbing of flora to minimise harm to flora and fauna throughout construction. Where harm cannot be avoided mitigation measures will be implemented to off-set any disturbance or destruction. There are a number of threatened or endangered flora and fauna identified within the construction area. The clearing of native vegetation should be minimised with the objective of reducing impacts to threatened species and Endangered Ecological Communities (EEC) to the greatest extent practicable. There are interrelationships with other CEMP sub-plans that provide additional information on environmental management relating to clearing and grubbing works. These plans include:

Soil and Water Management Plan – details stockpiling methods for topsoil and mulch. Flora and Fauna Plan – details the project requirements to ensure there is minimum disturbance to native vegetation and minimal impact

on existing fauna and fauna habitat during the construction phase of the project Biodiversity Offset Strategy - Developed by the RTA to meet the requirements of MCoA B4. This report details the methods to guarantee long-term

protection and management of the surrounding environment to minimise impacts to the endangered ecological communities and habitat for threatened species.

Weed and Pathogen Management Plan – Includes Mitigation measures to be implemented to avoid the introduction of, suppress and control the spread of existing weeds, plant pathogens and invasive species and to measure other indirect impacts that may result from the proposal during and after construction

Ecological Monitoring Program – Developed by the RTA to meet the requirements of MCoA B6. This plan focuses on post completion monitoring covering fauna structure usage and aquatic habitat. This Program includes monitoring of clearing procedures and the details on the monitoring of clearing procedures have been assessed and included in John Holland’s Clearing and Grubbing Plan.


1.1 References

1.1 References

Federal Legislation

State legislation Local

Government Laws

Standards / Codes Other Documentation

1. Environmental Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

1. Protection of the Environment and Operations Act 1997

2. Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

3. Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

4. National parks and Wildlife Act 1974

5. Native Vegetation Act 2003 6. Fisheries Management Act

1994

1. NA Best Practise Erosion & Sediment Control, International Erosion Control Association (IECA) (2008)

Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality, Australia and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council (ANZECC) (2000)

Why do Fish Need to Cross the Road? Fish Passage Requirements for Waterway Crossings (NSW Fisheries, 2003)

Guidelines for Controlled Activities Watercourse Crossings (DWE, 2008)

Guidelines for Controlled Activities: In-stream Works (OWE, 2008)

1. Construction Environmental Management Plan 2. Flora and Fauna Plan 3. Part 3A Project Approval S9/01954 4. Hyder, Environmental Assessment for Devils Pulpit

Upgrade, May 2010 5. OEH, Environmental Protection Licence (NOT YET

RECEIVED) 6. RTA, specifications G36, G38, G40. 7. Review of Environmental Factors (REF) Sept 2010 8. Part 5 self determination and commitments 9. (EPBC 2010/5586) Pacific Highway Upgrade – Iluka

road to Woodburn


1.2 Glossary

ECP – Environmental Control Plan PM – Project Manager PER – Project Environmental Representative WRA – Workplace Risk Assessment AMS – Activity Method Statement SEP – Site Environmental Plan EPA – Environmental Protection Authority REM – Regional Environmental Manager OEH - Office of Environment and Heritage DP&I - Department of Planning and Infrastructure RTA - Roads and Traffic Authority DSEWPAC - Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities Fisheries - Primary Industries Fishing and Aquaculture

2. SITE CHARACTERISTICS

The Devils Pulpit Upgrade is part of the Pacific Highway, the project is divided into two sections, the first being Iluka Road to Woodburn and the second being Devil’s Pulpit to Glencoe Road. Though assessed through different planning pathways, both sections will be addressed in this management plan. The section of the project between Iluka Rd and Woodburn is approximately 7.36 kilometers in length, located between 66 and 72.4 kilometers north of Grafton. The second section of the project is Devil’s Pulpit to Glencoe Road which involves road widening for approximately 3km.

The area falls within the North Coast Bioregion and is located in the Macleay/Macpherson Overlap, an area of high biodiversity where tropical and temperate ecosystems overlap. This project is located to the east of the existing highway and adjoins the Devils Pulpit State Forest. Bundjalung National Park adjoins the existing highway to the west.

3. CLEARING REQUIREMENTS

The major upgrade works to the south have a maximum clearing allocation of 58 hectares of native vegetation. This native vegetation comprises Dry Sclerophyll Forests(40.17 hectares) and grassy woodlands(17.53 hectares). The presence of certain plants within the grassy woodlands communities accord with the definition of the Subtropical Coastal Floodplain Forest of the NSW North Coast Bioregion, an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the TSC Act. The Environmental Assessment concluded that the project is not likely to have a significant impact on Subtropical Coastal Floodplain Forest. The northern widening 3km section that extends to Glencoe Rd was self - determined under the Part 5 process and the clearing impacts for this section of works is approximately 6.5Ha of native vegetation along the western side of the highway. This includes 2.23 of swamp sclerophyll forest which is an EEC, this area of clearing only makes up for 0.29% of all swamp sclerophyll forest occuring in the locality. The biodiversity survey carried out by Hyder Consulting for the Environmental Assessment identified the presence of two vegetation formations, Dry Sclerophyll forests and grassy woodlands.


The Dry Sclerophyll forests formation comprises three vegetation communities (Blackbutt Dry Sclerophyll Forest, Scribbly Gum Dry Sclerophyll Forest and Spotted Gum Dry Sclerophyll Forest) and the Grassy Woodlands comprise two vegetation communities (Forest Red Gum Floodplain Forest and Narrow-leaved (eastern) Red Gum Floodplain Forest). In terms of clearing for permanant design the allowable clearing limits beyond the formation are 2m from the toe of batters or top of cuts where the land slopes away from the formation and 4m from the toe of batters or top of cuts where the land slopes towards the formation. According to the RTA G40 specifications only 12 Ha is allowed for ancillary facilities. The Ancillary facilties will include stockpile areas, haul and access roads, site compound areas and batch plant. The clearing of these areas involve a hold point where the RTA are to be informed prior with the following information;

Surveyed location Intended use Reasons why the land is to be cleared Construction techniques and materials Alternative areas Area of land and dimensions Period of proposed use Erosion and sediment controls Rehabilitation techniques Compliance with the conditions of approval Compliance with G40 2.2

It is paramount that the proposed locations of ancillary facilities are compliant with MCoA B16. The criteria for this condition is outlined later in this section. The planning for establishment of ancillary area locations should also consider the proposed areas from the environmental assessment (fig 4-10a,b c). Ancillary areas would include stockpile areas, site compounds, laydowns, haul roads and access roads. See yellow areas below. There should be no clearing of EECs, threatened species habitat for temporary works.

To address MCoA A8 and C1 John Holland has commenced consultation with the OEH to devise planning strategies for connectivity in the vegetated medians and will continue the consultation throughout construction for locating of construction ancillary services. Any proposed location for ancillary facilities will consider the ecological significance of the area in regards to fauna connectivity in addition to any potential impacts on individual flora and fauna species. This is explained in more detail in the section on Habitat fragmentation and fauna connectivity in the Flora and Fauna Management Plan.


Environmental Assessment Volume 1 - Figures 4-10a, b, c. possible locations for ancillary areas (initial staging)


The items that are to be complied with from the RTA G40 section 2.2 for ancillary areas include;

Site compound and storage areas to be covered with hardstand Chemicals and hydrocarbons to be in a bunded facility. Bund capacity to be at

least 120% capacity of the largest volume container. Refuelling of vehicles within site compound, or storage area to be within a

designated area that is bunded and impervious ESCP must include site compounds, stockpile areas and other storage areas Toe of stockpiled material not to be within 5m of fence, drain, or existing trees to be

retained. Perimeter fencing to include a screening fabric where necessary to screen the site

from passers by Parking of vehicles not allowed under the drip line of retained trees and is to be

designated and marked. Noise and vibration effects of site compound on sensitive receivers to be

considered. Noise shielding against community is to be implemented where necessary.

Restrict onsite truck movements to designated routes

The Project Approval MCoA B16 criteria that site facilities must comply with;

be located more than 100 metres from a waterway have ready access to the road network be located in areas of low ecological significance and will not require any

significant clearing of native vegetation beyond that already required by the project be located on relatively level land be separated from the nearest residences by at least 200 metres (or at least 250

metres for a temporary batching plant and stockpiling sites be above the 20 ARI flood level unless a contingency plan to manage flooding is

prepared and implemented; not unreasonably affect the land use of adjacent properties provide sufficient area for the storage of raw materials to minimise, to the greatest

extent practical, the number of deliveries required outside standard construction hours

be located in areas of low heritage conservation significance (including identified Aboriginal cultural value) and not impact on heritage sites beyond those already impacted by the project

4. OBJECTIVES AND GOALS

The key Objectives and goals for the Clearing and Grubbing plan are the same as the Flora and Fauna Plan, they include;

No indirect impacts to surrounding vegetation Do not exceed the clearing limits of 58Ha for the project Minimise all impacts to the aquatic ecosystems Minimise injury/mortality to all fauna Minimise all erosion and sedimentation during clearing operations


Minimise clearing for ancillary facilities. e.g. haul roads, stockpile areas, site compounds No clearing of EEC’s for ancillary facilities Retention of fauna connectivity throughout the project area No impact on Fauna Habitats outside of approved work zone.

Specific targets relating to ecological restoration, weed and pathogen management are with these relevant plans.

5. SPECIALISED ROLES ASSOCIATED WITH CLEARING OPERATIONS

Ecologist - A suitabley qualified Ecologist has been engaged to represent John Holland during the Clearing and Grubbing Process. The role of the ecologist is to carry out initial surveys of the land to be cleared and to be present during clearing of sensitive areas and when felling habitat trees (stage 2 as per sections 8 and 9 of this plan). The survey includes identification of vegetation types, ecological communities including Endangered Ecological Communities, fauna including significant species (threatened or other), weeds that have not been identified during the weed survey, habitat trees and other habitat features. As detailed in the Flora and Fauna Plan there are several species on the commonweath threatened species list that have the potential to occur in the project area. The ecologist will pay particular attention to identify any of these species and their habitat. These include the spotted tail quoll, grey headed flying fox, regent honeyeater and swift parrot. Structures that could provide potential habitat include existing bridges and culverts and these must be included in any ecological surveys.

Prior to clearing the ecologist is to map all the environmental constraints surveyed and to flag these items in the field. All these environmental constraints are to be surveyed as well as marked in the field. No –Go zones are to be identified and demarcated in the field. Any fauna that area able to be relocated prior to clearing are to be relocated in accordance with the procedure for fauna relocation in the Flora and Fauna Management Plan.

During clearing operations that involve the clearing of habitat trees the ecologist is to be present to supervise the operations and ensure that any fauna are rescued and relocated in accordance with the clearing and grubbing procedure below and the fauna relocation procedure.

Survey team – The surveyors are to set out the clearing boundaries for both permanant and temporary (ancillary) works as detailed in section 4 of this plan. They are to flag the boundary clearly with fluorescant tape so that the work teams can easily identify to erect bunting along the boundary. They are also to assist marking out any of the environmental constraints and no-go zones identified by the ecologist. Important cadastral boundries like National Parks, State Forest, and Private Property should also be marked in the field if land aquisition has not yet occured or there are special condtions surrounding these lands.

Clearing contractors – The clearing contractor will need to be inducted into this procedure and the Flora and Fauna Management Plan as well as all relevant ESCPs for clearing activities. A detailed activity method statement (AMS) will be developed with the clearing contractor, the PER, engineers, Foreman and Project Manager. This will cover all of the environmental risks and controls. The inputs will include the mapped ecological constraints and clearing boundaries, the Flora and Fauna Menagement Plan, Weed and pathogen Management Plan and this Plan.


6. HOLD POINTS FOR CLEARING AND GRUBBING ACTIVITIES

HOLD POINT

Prior to the commencement of vegetation clearing works a copy of the

Clearing and Grubbing Plan in accordance with G40 that clearly

identifies the limits of clearing and measures adopted to prevent

damage to flora and fauna outside the identified limits. The ecologist

report is to be included showing weed infestation areas.

Required 21 days prior to clearing.

HOLD POINT Clearing of any area of work will first require a clearing and grubbing

plan to be approved. At least 21 days before the start of any clearing.

HOLD POINT

Clearing of any areas outside of the formation will require the

submission of a clearing and grubbing plan with details on weed

infestation areas and unsound trees. This must be received at least 7

days before any clearing.

7. PROCEDURE FOR CLEARING AND GRUBBING

7.1 Prior to commencement of clearing works:

1. All personnel taking part in construction activities shall be instructed through the site specific induction process with regards to the importance of clearing limits and retention of remnant/individual trees of significant value. The induction will cover details on;

Potential and actual significant flora species within the project area, including commonwealth and state listed threatened species.

Potential and actual significant fauna species within the project area, including commonwealth and state listed threatened species.

EECs that occur within the project area Clearing procedure and boundary marking Habitat trees and the two stage clearing process Procedure for encountering native fauna onsite including injured fauna Reporting of environmental incidents involving fauna Potential and actual weed species that occur within the project area Other pests that occur within the project area and the management of these. Includes

fauna, flora and pathogens. A progressive ESCP is to be developed for the stage and area of clearing. The

necessary field controls are to be implemented prior to clearing. 2. A progressive ESCP is to be developed to cover each area of clearing. The Progressive ESCP is

to be developed in consultation with the Project Soil Conservation consultant in accordance with the framework outlined in the Soil and Water Management Plan section on Primary Erosion Sediment Control Plan. As per the RTA hold point referenced in the Soil and Water Management Plan the Progressive ESCPs must be submitted for approval to the RTA a minimum of 10 days prior to the disturbance of the surface in the particular section of work.

3. A detailed activity method statement (AMS) will be developed with the clearing contractor, the PER, engineers, Foreman and Project Manager. This will cover all of the environmental risks and controls. The inputs will include the mapped ecological constraints and clearing boundaries, the Flora and Fauna Management Plan, Weed and pathogen Management Plan and this Plan.


4. All relevant personnel would be subject to a prestart with regards to the identification of known/potentially occurring threatened species and EECs; and the locations of significant habitat features within and adjacent to the construction areas.

5. The NO GO zones and clearing boundaries will be clearly marked on the SEP. On site the NO GO zones will be marked with Blue and White bunting the clearing boundaries will be marked with orange bunting. The SEP displaying these details must be provided to the relevant clearing personnel.

6. The clearing boundaries will be surveyed and marked with orange bunting in the field and this bunting is to require for the duration of the construction project.

7. Clearing boundaries will be demarcated with orange bunting. The buffer to design will be as expressed in G40. Clearing will be a maximum of 4 m beyond formations. 2m where the ground falls away from the formation and 4m where it slopes back towards the formation for clearing to design. Clearing for ancillary facilites is to be in accordance with section 3 of this plan.

8. If the clearing is within the state forest contact NSW Forests to discuss and agree on the methods of clearing and final use of timber.

9. The local ranger must be consulted before clearing any vegetation directly adjacent to Bundjalung NP and the JH project team in consultation with the ecologist must verify, fence, ground truth areas to ensure that they do not encroach on Bundjalung NP.

10. All infestations of noxious weeds identified during the pre clearing survey are to be eradicated prior to clearing and grubbing. There are varying methods of eradication detailed in weed and pathogen management plan and these will depend on the weed species, the size of the infestation and its location.

11. A suitabily qualified Ecologist will undertake pre clearing surveys and associated clearing tasks as detailed in section 7.2 below

12. The RTA will be informed of all ancillary clearing with a report as detailed in section 3. This is an RTA hold point.

13. The clearing and grubbing permit is be used for all forms of clearing associated with the project. The checklist is to be completed by the work team and signed off by the PER and RTA .

7.2 Ecologists assigned work tasks for the clearing and grubbing procedure

The assigned work tasks and methodology for Ecologist during clearing and grubbing is summarised in the table below.

Task Work Components Comments Regarding Methodology

Pre-clearing tasks for Ecologist

Preliminary ground-truthing surveys, field marking and mapping of environmentally sensitive areas, fauna habitat structures and weeds. Pre-clearing survey report.

Exhaustive preliminary ground-truthing surveys to identify, mark in the field and map all environmentally sensitive areas, significant species, fauna habitat structures and weeds during the initial stage of the project, to maximise efficiency in the field and allow for comprehensive planning of clearing.

Fauna Habitat Structures include, hollow bearing trees, foraging trees, nesting trees, roosting trees, high use fauna trees, ground habitat features including hollow logs, boulders, drainage depressions for frog species.

Detailed GIS maps and layers would be developed and provided to the Contractor to assist with the development of SEPs for the clearing activities.

Surveys would involve identification of fauna/significant fauna habitats and subsequent protection measures and/or removal of fauna identified. opportunistic surveys could consist of;

Call playback for threatened frog species in areas of potential frog habitat


Task Work Components Comments Regarding Methodology During Clearing for the ecologist

Assist in determining locations of “no-go” fencing. Walk clearing area with Clearing Contractor on first day of clearing a new area. Supervision of 2nd stage clearing works (clearing of habitat trees, feed trees, nesting trees)

Stag watch and spotlighting for threatened hollow dependant nocturnal fauna

Ana bat survey for threatened micro bats

Search and analysis of scats around prominent habitat features

Timing of survey for specific species in regards to weather and time of day/night Significant species include a number of threatened species and the surveys must target;

den sites potentially being used by phascologales and gliders. Nesting sites for threatened bird species, threatened frog species habitat. Searches for Koala scats, and evidence of repeated feed tree usage, previously recorded threatened flora species.

Surveys include structures that could provide potential bat roosting sites including existing bridges and culverts and other potential sites.

Surveys must target EECs and significant Flora Species including state and commonwealth listed threatened species. This includes a targeted survey for Koala Bells and Cyperus aquatilis. Any discoveries are to be temporarily fenced to avoid disturbance and damage

Surveys must identify any areas of weed infestation Verification of no-go fencing within relevant clearing zone. Liaison regarding the location of environmentally sensitive and “no-go” areas. Assist with preparation of “procedure of entry” if access to the “no-go” zone is required.

Technical advice on flora/fauna related matters and the clearing process. Indicate to the clearing contractor all the sensitive areas as per the SEP and explain the demarcation in the field as per the SEP.

Assist with sign off of clearing permit (section 8 of this plan)

Clearing supervision during 2nd stage clearing and fauna rescue including liaison with the local Wildlife Care and Rescue group (WIRES Northern Rivers).

Searches during 2nd stage clearing include the inspection of felled trees for nests and all fauna, inspection of hollow logs and burrow, and inspection of hollow bearing trees after clearing.

7.3 Sequence of Clearing

Once all the items in section 7.1 have been completed the clearing and grubbing activities will follow the sequence below;

1. Boundary is walked on the day of clearing with PER, RTA, Ecologist, Plant operator and all other relevant personnel.

2. Boundary clearing will occur first to establish a clear delineation for the boundary with a spotter.

3. If necessary to clear certain areas for establishment of erosion and sediment controls this should be done early around the same time as boundary clearing. The Erosion and sediment controls must be installed in accordance with the progressive ESCP for the area.


4. The clearing will first involve the clear felling of large trees whilst avoiding all habitat trees, no go zones (delineated) and drainage lines. Considerations to ensure the trees fall within the boundary.

5. The trees will be stockpiled along the contours to act as sediment controls. 6. Seeds will be gathered to form a seed-bank, where feasible, for use in revegetation

works. 7. Depending on the surrounding environmental constraints the felled trees are then

mulched in the area they were felled or transported a short distance to an area more suitable.

8. The mulch is then transported to pre cleared stockpile areas above the 1 in 100 year ARI flood level or directly offsite as detailed in the tannin leachate procedure in the Soil and Water Management Plan.

9. If fauna habitat structures were present they cannot be cleared until 24hrs after the first pass and the ecologist is to be present during this second stage clearing for fauna relocation. Fauna habitat structures include but are not limited to; hollow bearing trees, foraging trees, nesting trees, roosting trees, high use fauna trees, ground habitat features including hollow logs, boulders, drainage depressions for frog species.

10. The trees in the drainage lines can be felled leaving a stump to retain stabilisation for the drainage channel. No ground cover is to be cleared in these areas until construction is required in these drainage lines, eg culvert installation

11. Once all the trees and shrubs are cleared and mulched, ground cover and topsoil stripping can occur.

12. Grubbing of any remaining tree stumps can occur and the holes left behind are to be backfilled and compacted to prevent erosion and ponding.

13. The depth of topsoil strip is to be agreed upon with the RTA environmental representative and the PER.

14. The topsoil stripping is to occur as a staged process and must observe any areas identified on the maps for weed infestation. Weed eradication is to occur prior to stripping these areas unless otherwise advised by the Council weed officer.

15. The topsoil is to be carted to the designated stockpile areas making sure that topsoil from areas where weed infestation occured is stored separately.

16. Identified fauna habitat features like hollow logs, stag trees etc should be taken to the stockpile location and stored separately for use in rehabilitation areas

7.4 For removal of vegetation without fauna habitat structures

NOTE : fauna habitat structures include but are not limited to; hollow bearing trees, foraging trees, nesting trees, roosting trees, high use fauna trees, ground habitat features including hollow logs, boulders, drainage depressions for frog species.

1. The Contractor would designate a supervisor and the plant operater for undertaking the pre-clearing inspections with the PER in accordance with the clearing and grubbing permit prior to any vegetation clearing events.

2. A suitably qualified ecologist would undertake the initial pre-clearing survey, mark out the environmental constraints in the field and provide the contractor and PER with the information for the SEP.

3. Erosion and sediment controls must be installed in accordance with the progressive ESCP for the area.

4. Completing the Pre- clearing Checklist and getting it approved by the PER


5. Stopping work and notifying the PER if any potential heritage discoveries occur during the clearing operations. The procedure that must be followed is the unexpected finds procedure in the heritage management plan.

6. Clearly marking clearing buffers when fauna or potential heritage items are detected. Buffers would be a minimum of 50 m for threatened fauna / flora species discoveries and 100 m for potential heritage finds.

7. Stop work and notify the PER any fauna detected in the clearing area. 8. On notification of the discovery of any fauna, previously undetected threatened fauna /

flora species the PER is to follow the Fauna Relocation Procedure in the Flora and Fauna Plan.

9. Buffers for fauna must be installed and maintained until the detected fauna voluntarily moves on, or until a suitably qualified and licensed person (e.g. Ecologist or WIRES member) captures and relocates the fauna in accordance with the Fauna Relocation Procedure

10. If threatened species are discovered the PER must notify the OEH (threatened species unit) and consult with OEH on proposed Management strategies for the species. SEWPaC must be also notified if EPBC Act listed threatened species that were not previously identified are found.

11. Record all fauna losses, relocations or injuries during clearing.

7.5 For removal of vegetation with fauna habitat structures

NOTE : fauna habitat features include but are not limited to; hollow bearing trees, foraging trees, nesting trees, roosting trees, high use fauna trees, ground habitat features including hollow logs, boulders, drainage depressions for frog species.

1. Fauna habitat structures are to be identified and marked in the field by the Ecologist, there are also to appear on the SEP. Hollow bearing trees have already been surveyed by Hyder and appear in appendix 1 of this plan. These must reidentified and clearly marked by the ecologist in the pre clearing survey as with any previously unidentified habitat trees (including hollow bearing).

2. Fauna Habitat Structures may be removed no less than 24 hours after the removal of adjacent non-habitat trees and structures.

3. Fauna Habitat Structures may only be removed when a suitably qualified ecologist is present. They are to be cleared using the following procedures where possible and in accordance with all Occupational Health and Safety requirements.

4. The subject habitat tree should be gently “bumped ” three times over a minium 5 minute period (minimum 1 minute pause between bumps). The aim of this procedure is to encourage nesting/denning/roosting hollow dependant fauna to disperse.

5. At least 1 minute after the final bump, the subject tree may be felled. Where possible the tree should be felled using an excavator with a “claw” attachment to gently lower the tree.

6. Once fallen the suitably qualified ecologist would inspect the hollows and capture and relocate any detected fauna in accordance with the Fauna Relocation Procedure. All fauna relocations as well as any detected fauna mortality or injury are to be recorded.

7. If threatened species are discovered the PER must notify the OEH (threatened species unit) and consult with OEH on proposed Management strategies for the species. SEWPaC must be also notified if EPBC Act listed threatened species that were not previously identified are found.

8. The tree would be left at the felled site for at least 24 hours prior to relocating. 9. The Pre-Clearing Checklist is part of the Clearing and Grubbing Permit and should be

completed and approved by the PER prior to all clearing.


10. Hollow bearing trees and hollow logs removed will be recycled as a habitat logs for restoration works. The project ecologist and PER will determine the valuable hollow bearing trees and logs to be retained for ground fauna habitat. They are to be carefully relocated via earthmoving machinery to adjacent stockpile areas and later established in revegetation areas.


8. CLEARING AND GRUBBING PERMIT

Clearing Permit Number:

Permission is requested to disturb the following area: (Site, Description, Position)

Drawings Indicating Area to be disturbed/cleared:

Site Environmental Plan (SEP) number:

Does this clearing area fall outside of the design road formation?

If yes RTA sign off is required for this permit

Is it ancillary clearing (stockpiles, access roads, laydown areas, compounds) in the vegetated medians?

If yes RTA sign off is required for this permit after consultation with the OEH

Expiry Date:

Purpose of clearing: (Clear description)

Dimension of area to be cleared for ancillary areas: (m2)

Chainage and surveyed location:

Date clearing is to commence:

How long Is it expected that the area will remain un-rehabilitated?

Method and machinery to be used :

NO WORK OUTSIDE THIS SCOPE MAY BE PERFORMED UNDER THIS APPROVAL

A tick () should be placed in the Yes/No box. If an item is not applicable, write N/A.

If an action is identified and fixed immediately, details are to be recorded in the Comments and Actions column.

If an item cannot be actioned immediately, then it will be recorded in the Action Plan, to be signed off and dated once actions are complete.

All actions should be addressed prior to any pre-clearing works commencing, unless otherwise approved by the Environmental Representative.

The Site Environmental Plan & Activity Method Statement (AMS) should be referred to confirm environmental constraints and controls required in the area.

No Control Measure Yes No Comments & Actions Close Out Date

1st Stage Clearing

1 Have the limits of clearing been delineated by orange bunting?

2 Are the clearing limits pegged no more than 4 metres from the edge of permanent design of road formation?

3 If the clearing is outside of the formation has the RTA released the Hold Point for Clearing outside of formation


areas?

4 Has a pre-clearance survey been completed by an experienced ecologist in the area to be cleared?

5 Has the ecologist identified; weeds threatened flora species, and any trees outside of clearing limits that are likely to fall on roadway or private property?

6 Has the ecologist provided a map of the environmentally sensitive areas and does this information appear in the SEP ?

7 Have all habitat trees been identifed and flagged off with a buffer of at least 5 m

8

Have EECs and threated flora species been fenced off with NO GO bunting clear of the canopy line to prevent; Clearing, parking, stockpiling, excavation near the tree dripline?

9 For boundary clearing has a spotter been appointed?

10

If the clearing is within the state forest has NSW Forest been contacted and both the methods of clearing and final use of timber been agreed on?

11 Has the SEP and ESCP for area been developed and with the operator?

12 Have trees (eg EECs) to be avoided been appropriately marked with blue and white bunting?

13

No clearing of vegetation in the road reserve for the new northbound carriageway between Ch 66000 – Ch 68200 and Ch 6900 – Ch 70900, prior to commencement of construction of those sections. Expect Ancillary facilities approved by RTA and in consultation with the OEH

14 Have machinery operators read and understood the clearing and grubbing procedure?

15 Are the drainage lines from culverts to be left with vegetation and only cleared immediately prior to construction in that area

16 Have protocols to prevent introduction or spread of weeds been prepared and followed?

17

Has existing trees, grasses and ground cover been retained within 15 metres of watercourses until immediately before clearing/ construction begins in the area?

18 Has weed eradication been completed?

19

Are there effective sediment and erosion control measures in place in accoradance with the ESCP to prevent sediment-laden water discharging from site (e.g. clean water diversions, sediment fence, sediment basins, hay bales etc).

If all the above are Yes then 1st stage clearing can proceed with sign off from the PER, Plant Operator and supervisor below (RTA sign off required for clearing outside of formation). If any are any No’s then put a corrective action in the action plan to do prior to clearing


Plant Operator to sign in the presence with the PER.

I understand and accept all conditions stated in this permit. I have completed the following pre-clearing checklist on the 1st day of and before commencing the clearing task: Tick □ Over clearing has been included on the TRA and discussed with plant operator(s)

□ SEP and ESCP with the plant operator and supervisor

□ All required flagging of the clearing boundaries and No – Go Zones are in place

□ Physical walk around of the clearing boundary has been conducted with each plant operator (and spotter if required)

□ Alll RTA hold points and other special conditions have been identified and discussed with the plant operator(s)

□ Current drawings of the approved SEP showing ecologically sensitive areas has been given to the plant operator

I have walked the clearing boundary with my Supervisor on the 1st day of and before commencing the clearing task. I clearly understand the limits of the approved clearing and any other special conditions before commencing work Plant Operator Signature: ......................................................Name................................................... Date: ...........................

Contractor Supervisor Signature: .......................................... Name................................................... Date: ...........................

PER Signiture:………………………………………………………… Name................................................... Date: ...........................

Sign off for clearing outside Road formation RTA nominated representative signiture:………………………Name......................................................Date.................................... 2nd Stage of Clearing No Control Measure Yes No Comments & Actions Close

Out Date

1 Have the habitat trees been left for a minimum of 24 hrs prior to the first stage of clearing

2 Is the Ecologist present for the felling of the habitat trees?

3 Has trees marked as containing hollows or nests been checked for the presence of any fauna by the wildlife handler?

4 Have trees containing fauna been carefully nudged to encourage fauna to vacate the tree before removal (pushing over) of the tree?

5

Has any fauna identified been appropriately relocated with assistance from the wildlife handler or WIRES (if required) in accordance with the Fauna Relocation Procedure?

If all the above are answered Yes then 2nd stage clearing can proceed with sign off from the PER and Plant Operator. If any are any No’s then put a corrective action in the action plan to do prior to clearing

Plant Operator to sign in the presence with the PER.

I understand and accept all conditions stated in this permit. I have completed the following pre-clearing checklist on the 1st day of and before commencing the clearing task: Tick □ Over clearing has been included on the TRA and discussed with plant operator(s)


□ SEP and ESCP with the plant operator and supervisor

□ All required flagging of the clearing boundaries and No – Go Zones are in place

□ Physical walk around of the clearing boundary has been conducted with each plant operator (and spotter if required)

□ Alll RTA hold points and other special conditions have been identified and discussed with the plant operator(s)

□ Current drawings of the approved SEP showing ecologically sensitive areas has been given to the plant operator

I have walked the clearing boundary with my Supervisor on the 1st day of and before commencing the clearing task. I clearly understand the limits of the approved clearing and any other special conditions before commencing work Plant Operator Signature: ......................................................Name................................................... Date: ...........................

Contractor Supervisor Signature: .......................................... Name................................................... Date: ...........................

PER Signature:………………………………………………………… Name................................................... Date: ........................... Post clearing No Control Measure Yes No Comments & Actions Close

Out Date

1 Have habitat trees been stockpiled in an approved area and have seeds been added to the seed bank as neccessary for reuse in rehabilitation?

2 Have habitat elements i.e. logs or branches been stockpiled for later use in rehabilitation?

3 Has all trees and stumps on or within the limits of clearing been removed by grubbing and holes backfilled and compacted?

Action Plan

Date: ………………

Inspected by: ………………………

Item No. Required Corrective Action Person Responsible

Completed – Date / Initials

9. Appendix 1 – Plan showing previously surveyed hollow bearing trees and clearing boundaries for the permanent road formation

contract no. 10.2544.1628 devils pulpit – pacific highway ... · pdf fileprocedure for...

Documents