rma assessment of environmental effects template · [rma aee template - docdm-96227 – change...

RMA AEE form Version 3

Assessment of Environmental Effects for [name of pest(s)]

Control in the [name of treatment area] Treatment Area

[month, year of proposed operation]

Prepared by: [writers name and contact details] [Date written]


[RMA AEE template - DOCDM-96227 – change footer to match your document] i

Contents Chapter 1 Introduction

Section 1.1: Introducing the environmental assessment process ........................... Section 1.2: Objective of this Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) ...........

Chapter 2 Overview of the proposed operation

Section 2.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 2.2: Description of the proposed operation ................................................ Section 2.3: Objectives of the proposed operation .................................................. Section 2.4: Adverse impacts of [animal pest] and reasons for control .................. Section 2.5: Legal requirement to control [animal pest] ........................................ Section 2.6: Other consents required ......................................................................

Chapter 3 Description of the treatment area

Section 3.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 3.2: Description of the receiving environment ........................................... Section 3.3: Flora and fauna .................................................................................... Section 3.4: Other animals present .......................................................................... Section 3.5: Significance of the treatment area to tangata whenua ........................ Section 3.6: Archaeological sites .............................................................................. Section 3.7: Recreational and commercial interests ...............................................

Chapter 4 Options for pest control

Section 4.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 4.2: Project decision criteria ....................................................................... Section 4.3: Alternative options for pest control ..................................................... Section 4.4: Evaluation of methods ......................................................................... Section 4.5: Rate of application and pre-feeding .................................................... Section 4.6: Timing of the operation ....................................................................... Section 4.7: Conclusion ............................................................................................

Chapter 5 Environmental Effects of [Name of pesticide] use and

proposed consent conditions Section 5.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 5.2: Effects of proposed operation on soil and water quality ..................... Section 5.3: Effects of proposed operation on non-target native species ............... Section 5.4: Effects of proposed operation on non-target domestic animals ......... Section 5.5: Effects of proposed operation on human health & community well-

being ..................................................................................................... Section 5.6: Effects of proposed operation on cultural and spiritual values .......... Section 5.7: Effects of proposed operation on ecosystems ..................................... Section 5.8: Other adverse effects ............................................................................ Section 5.9: Conclusion ............................................................................................


[RMA AEE template - DOCDM-96227 – change footer to match your document] ii

Chapter 6 Public consultation

Section 6.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 6.2: Public consultation process ................................................................. Section 6.3: RMA Section 95E approvals ................................................................

Chapter 7 Environmental monitoring and proposed monitoring

standards Section 7.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 7.2: Outcome and result monitoring .......................................................... Section 7.3: Monitoring the effect on non-target species........................................

Chapter 8 Relevant planning documents Section 8.1: Introduction ......................................................................................... Section 8.2:Resource Management Act 1991 .......................................................... Section 8.3:Provisions of Conservation Management Strategy & management plans Section 8.4:Other guidelines, plans and/or strategies ........................................... Section 8.5: Conclusion ............................................................................................

Chapter 9 Conclusion ......................................................................................... Appendices

Appendix 1: Maps .................................................................................................... Appendix 2: Review of [name of pesticide] ............................................................ Appendix 3: Communication Record ...................................................................... Appendix 4: References ........................................................................................... Appendix.5: Operations and/or other plans relevant to the application ..............


[RMA AEE template - DOCDM-96227 – change footer to match your document] 1

Chapter 1 Introduction Section 1.1 Introducing the environmental assessment process Introduction

This document assesses the actual and potential environmental effects of [controlling/eradicating] [name of pest] in [name of treatment area]. It is proposed that the operation be undertaken by [describe pesticide use]. [Pesticide use] can present risks to public health, non-target native species, domestic stock and dogs. This AEE outlines the significance of these effects and the means by which these risks will be managed to ensure that adverse effects are avoided, remedied or mitigated. This assessment of effects has been undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Section 88 and the fourth schedule of the Resource Management Act 1991.

Section 1.2 Objective of this Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) AEE objective

The Department of Conservation has prepared this Assessment of Environmental Effects to: · Consider the reasons for [controlling/eradicating] [name

animal pest]; · Consider options and methods for

[controlling/eradicating] [name animal pest]; · Describe the proposed operation; · Describe the receiving environment; · Assess the impact of the proposed operation on the

environment; · Identify the actual and potential effects of the proposed

operation and outline appropriate management of these effects;

· Enable adequate public consultation concerning the proposed operation; and

· Propose a programme for monitoring



Chapter 2 Overview of the proposed operation Section 2.1 Introduction Overview

This section provides an overview of the proposed operation by briefly describing: · Previous control efforts; · The objectives of the operation; · The method, poison and bait proposed; · The adverse impacts of [name animal pest] and reasons

for their control; and · The legal requirement to control [name animal pest]

Section 2.2 Description of the proposed operation Name of treatment area:

[See docdm-51708 for definition of term treatment area]

Size of area:

[Total size of area proposed for treatment using methods covered in this AEE. Use flat plan area measurement uncorrected for slope]

Target animal pest[s]:

[List only those target pests actually being legally targeted by proposed pesticide use. See Status List docdm-22655 for guidance]

Purpose of control:

[Summarise outcome from Section 2.3. Align with Section 2.4.]

Proposed method and pesticide:

[State pesticide use(s)]

Proposed timing:

[State start and end date for operation. Put dates in context with resource consent application]

Baits:

[Give detail of bait type, size and mean weight]



Toxic loading:

[See Status List docdm-22655 for guidance]

Lure:

[Include lure and strength as a percentage]

Bait application rate:

[State average rate based on quantity of bait divided by size of treatment area. Also provide intended sowing rate where relevant.]

Pre-feed:

[State rate where relevant.]

Nature of receiving environment:

[Summarise information from Pestlink treatment block details if available.]

Project proposer:

[Name of Office], Department of Conservation

Section 2.3 Objectives of the proposed operation Priority of the [name of treatment area] operation

[Describe how this operation has been prioritised. For example, quote national and/or regional control plans for that animal pest, Draft Islands Strategy, Conservation Management Strategy, etc.]

Conservation outcomes(s)

[Describe the longer term ‘end state’ for the treatment area or protected species targeted by this operation. Where possible write SMART1 outcomes. Cross reference this section to Chapter 7: Environmental Monitoring and Proposed Monitoring Standards.]

Operational target(s)

[State result and outcome targets from workplan or other sources (e.g., < 5% RTC for possums by 30 June 2011). Targets will be SMART1.

1 SMART (1) SPECIFIC—not long, waffly or vague.

(2) MEASURABLE—you can monitor and report on it—it has a statistical base. (3) ACHIEVABLE—challenging, but realistic. (4) RESULT-ORIENTATED—describes the end, not the means. (5) TIME-BOUND—have a target completion date.



Provide a background to this target, and where relevant, discuss why this target has been chosen. Contrast with alternatives such as doing nothing and complete eradication. Cross reference this section to Chapter 7: Environmental Monitoring and Proposed Monitoring Standards.]

Section 2.4 Adverse impacts of [animal pest] and reasons for control The adverse impact of [animal pest]

[Outline the adverse impacts of the animal pest on flora and/or fauna within the treatment area. Use information from vegetation surveys, assessment of canopy condition, and/or effect on other fauna.]

History of previous control operations

[Where available insert summary of Management History from previous Pestlink reports. Briefly state the history of previous control operations seeking to control the same animal pest in this treatment area. Provide information on results and outcomes of this work. Use previous Pestlink reports for information if available. If applicable, describe results of other animal pest control measures in the same treatment area. Has this effort been worthwhile and does it support ongoing measures? What consents were obtained at the time (quote previous Resource Management Act consent numbers if resource consent was required).]

Summary of reason for [animal pest] control

[Summarise the above details into a reason for control of this animal pest. This reason should align with ‘Purpose of Control’ in Section 2.2]

Section 2.5 Legal requirement to control [animal pest] Introduction

The Department of Conservation is legally responsible for the protection of the flora and fauna that occur on lands that it administers. This responsibility stems from the provisions of the Conservation Act 1987, Reserves Act 1977 and the National Parks Act 1980. The Conservation Act 1987 defines the purpose and functions of the Department of Conservation. One of the Department’s primary functions is to preserve and protect plants, animals and ecosystems.



The Department of Conservation is vested with a statutory responsibility to control the adverse effects of animal pests on protected flora and fauna on lands it administers. This responsibility must be exercised with regard to the potential adverse effects of control measures. This issue is directly addressed in this AEE.

National Parks Act 1980

The treatment area is within [name national park] National Park, and management is therefore guided by the National Parks Act 1980. This Act seeks to preserve, in perpetuity, national parks in a natural state and specifies that all; “introduced plants and animals shall as far as possible be exterminated” (Section 4). The Department of Conservation is required to manage national parks so as to secure the protection and well-being of their native plants and animals (Section 43). While eradication of [name of target pest] is not considered possible, the Department seeks to control [name of target pest] in priority areas. The adequate protection of the ecological values of the [name of treatment area] area is directly threatened by [name of target pest].

Reserves Act 1977

The [name of reserve, including type] Reserve is managed as a scenic reserve pursuant to the requirements of the Reserves Act 1977. This Act requires that the flora and fauna within a reserve must be managed and protected to the extent compatible with the principle or primary purpose of the reserve. Under the Reserves Act 1977, the purpose of a [type of reserve] reserve is [state purpose]. Any animal pest operation must therefore comply with this requirement, as well as the requirement of the relevant Conservation Management Strategy and management plans.

Wild Animal Control Act 1977

The Wild Animal Control Act 1977 is administered by the Department of Conservation and provides the legislative mandate to controlling specified wild animals on lands of all tenure. Section 4 of the Act states that: “This Act shall apply to all land …. and shall be for the purposes of controlling wild animals generally, and of eradicating wild animals locally where necessary and practicable, as dictated by proper land use” “This Act shall be administered… so as to— (a) Ensure

FOR TEMPLATE USERS: Delete those sections below that do not apply. Delete this instruction box.



concerted action against the damaging effects of wild animals on vegetation, soils, waters, and wildlife…”.

Section 2.6 Other consents required Other consents required

[Describe what other consents are required for the proposed operation (e.g., public health permission and Wildlife Act 1953 and Marine Reserves Act 1971 permits). Use docdm-1475279 to identify which consents are required. Describe the progress made in getting these consents. Update this progress report through the life of the AEE.]

Chapter 3 Description of the treatment area Section 3.1 Introduction Overview

This section describes the treatment area, including: · The physical characteristics of the area; · Ecology of the area; · Significance to tangata whenua; · Recreational and commercial values; and · Other animal pests present The ecological description of the area includes an assessment of the ecological significance of values and habitat at the location. This assessment makes reference to accepted ecological ranking systems, including: · Species rankings used by the NZ Botanical Society; · Established methods for biological ranking for nature

conservation (Shaw, 1994); · The classification of species according to threat of

extinction (Townsend et al 2008); and · Special Sites of Wildlife Interest (SSWI) Information on the significance of the area to tangata whenua has been obtained through consultation with iwi.



Section 3.2 Description of the receiving environment Area and location

[Describe size (hectares), and legal description. Attach a map(s) clearly showing the treatment area and relevant features described below, in Appendix 1 of the AEE. Standards for map preparation are described in Appendix 1.]

Adjacent land tenure and uses

[Describe the nature of the land tenure and uses within the vicinity of the treatment area. Note the location of houses, communities, schools, etc.]

Topography and geology

[Describe the topography and geology of the area including; general nature of the terrain, altitudinal range, the nature of affected catchments (e.g., steep), and soil type(s).]

Significant water bodies

[Describe water bodies in or directly adjoining treatment area, including wetlands, streams, rivers and coast. Clearly identify water supply areas. Make sure all water bodies are clearly shown on the map(s) contained in Appendix 1.]

Climate

[Describe the climate in the treatment area, including average rainfall and temperature.]

Section 3.3 Flora and fauna Vegetation types and their extent

[Briefly describe the type and extent of the vegetation found within the treatment area. Outline the significance of this vegetation in terms of established criteria. Note potential for restoration and/or special haven, e.g., is the

FOR TEMPLATE USERS: In this section describe key features of the treatment area. Use Treatment Area description from past Pestlink reports for information or Background/ Rationale from operational plan. Delete this instruction box.



area an island? Note the history of the flora within the treatment area. For example, has the area’s flora been modified in any way e.g., through logging or burning. Where appropriate include map(s) showing distribution of vegetation types in Appendix 1. List threatened plants present by threat classification. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Native bird species

[Summarise what is known about the native bird species present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of native bird populations in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Invertebrate fauna

[Summarise what is known about indigenous invertebrate species present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of known invertebrate populations in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Bat species

[Summarise what is known about the bat species present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of known bat populations in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Aquatic fauna

[Summarise what is known about aquatic fauna present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of aquatic fauna in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Native amphibians

[Summarise what is known about native amphibians present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of amphibians in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Native reptiles

[Summarise what is known about native reptiles and tuatara present within the treatment area.



Outline the significance of reptile populations in terms of established criteria. Use spreadsheet docdm-101687 or Hitchmough et al 2007 for guidance.]

Section 3.4 Other animals present Introduced bird species

[Summarise what is known about introduced bird species present within the treatment area. Outline the significance of these bird species if relevant.]

Animal pests present

[Summarise what is known about the other animal pests present within the treatment area and their impacts on that area. Consider possums, goats, wild pigs, deer, cattle, mustelids, rats, feral cats, wallabies, hedgehogs, and mice. Use previous Pestlink reports for guidance if available.]

Section 3.5 Significance of the treatment area to tangata whenua Iwi associations

[Identify the iwi and/or hapū associated with the treatment area. Use your Conservation Partnerships team and consult your Pou Tairangahau for this information.]

Significance of treatment area to tangata whenua

[Summarise the significance of values within the treatment area to tangata whenua. This information must be obtained in consultation with the relevant iwi. Note that the process and results of consultation with tangata whenua is described in Chapter 6: Public Consultation of this AEE.]

Section 3.6 Archaeological sites Summary of known sites

[Has there been an archaeological survey of the area? Are there any reported Māori sites and what is their significance. Are there any reported historic sites (e.g., kauri logging, mining, settlement, farming, gold digging etc.)? Use your Conservation Partnerships team and consult your Pou Tairangahau and Archaeologist for this information. Note that this information is only relevant where soil



disturbance is required as part of the operation, for example vehicle access tracks.]

Section 3.7 Recreational and commercial interests Recreational values and public access

[Briefly describe the recreational values of the treatment area. Is the area open to public access, and how often is it used? E.g., tramping, hunting, fishing, botanising, picnicking etc. Use your Conservation Partnerships team for this information.]

Commercial values

[Are there any commercial activities in the treatment area? Adventure tourism, grazing leases, forestry, farming, beekeeping etc? Use your Conservation Partnerships team for this information. Consult with Departmental Concessions staff for this information. Use Permissions database where appropriate.]

Chapter 4 Options for pest control Section 4.1 Introduction Overview

This chapter assesses the options available for the control of [name of target pest], before recommending a preferred option. This decision relies on the project decision criteria described in Section 4.2 of this AEE. Pesticides used to control vertebrate pests must be approved under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 and registered under the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Act 1997. Methods of application for registered pesticide formulations must also have DOC approval.



Section 4.2 Project decision criteria Criteria to guide the selection of method and pesticide

Project decision criteria can help assess and select an appropriate possum control method from the options available. This AEE uses the following criteria to assess the alternatives available: · Must be effective at killing target species; · May be effective in killing other animal pest species; · Must be cost effective; · Adverse effects on species of non-target wildlife, livestock

and dogs must be known to be minor and/or can be avoided, remedied or mitigated; and

· Any risks to human health and community well-being can be avoided, remedied or mitigated.

Section 4.3 Alternative options for pest control Alternative options

[Briefly describe the implications of doing nothing and/or the feasibility of eradication within the treatment area.]

Section 4.4 Evaluation of methods

Introduction to the methods available

This section describes the advantages and disadvantages of the range of methods available to [control/eradicate] [name animal pest(s)] within the treatment area. The methods assessed include: [list methods from Current Agreed Best Practice—Choose your control method for your target pest]. Each method is assessed against the project decision criteria.

[Method 1]: an introduction

[Briefly introduce and define the first method under consideration. Use Current Agreed Best Practice—Choose your control method where available. Copy and paste the first paragraph from the Choose your control method document applicable to this control method.]

Advantages of [method 1]

[Copy and paste from Current Agreed Best Practice—Choose your control method for your target pest. Copy all the points under ‘When’ and ‘Method best practice’ headings from the



Choose your control method document applicable to this control method. Edit the copied list of bullet points and/or add additional points.]

Disadvantages of [method 1]

[Copy and paste from Current Agreed Best Practice— Choose your control method for your target pest. Copy all the points under the ‘Potential Issues’ heading from the Choose your control method document applicable to this control method. Edit the copied list of bullet points and/or add additional points.]

Assessment of [method 1] at this location

[Evaluate the method against the operation’s decision criteria, and discuss whether this method is appropriate for the treatment area —explain why/why not. You must describe and evaluate the risk of this method to the public; non-target native species; and domestic animals including stock and dogs. Go to the PAG Risk Assessment for the relevant pesticide uses for assistance with this assessment.]


[Briefly introduce and define as for the first method under consideration.]


[Copy and paste from Current Agreed Best Practice—Choose your control method for your target pest. Copy all the points under ‘When’ and ‘Method best practice’ headings from the Choose your control method document applicable to this control method. Edit the copied list of bullet points and/or add additional points.]




[Evaluate the method against the operation’s decision criteria, and discuss whether this method is appropriate for the treatment area—explain why/why not. You must describe and evaluate the risk of this method to the public; non-target native species; and domestic animals including stock and dogs. Go to the PAG Risk Assessment for the relevant



pesticide uses for assistance with this assessment.]








[Evaluate the method against the operation’s decision criteria, and discuss whether this method is appropriate for the treatment area—explain why/why not. You must describe and evaluate the risk of this method to: the public; non-target native species; and domestic animals including stock and dogs. Go to the PAG Risk Assessment for the relevant pesticide uses for assistance with this assessment.]






[Copy and paste from Current Agreed Best Practice— Choose your control method for your target pest. Copy all the points under the ‘Potential Issues’ heading from the Choose your



control method document applicable to this control method. Edit the copied list of bullet points and/or add additional points.]


[Evaluate the method against the operation’s decision criteria, and discuss whether this method is appropriate for the treatment area—explain why / why not. You must describe and evaluate the risk of this method to the public; non-target native species; and domestic animals including stock and dogs. Go to the PAG Risk Assessment for the relevant pesticide uses for assistance with this assessment.]

Section 4.5 Conclusion Preferred option

This chapter has selected the [pesticide use] as the preferred option for the [name treatment area]. Further evaluation is required to assess the environmental effects of this type of operation at this location, and to determine whether these effects can be adequately avoided, remedied or mitigated. This assessment is contained in Chapter 5: Environmental Effects of [name of pesticide] Use and Proposed Performance Standards.

Chapter 5 Environmental effects of [name of pesticide] use and proposed consent conditions Section 5.1 Introduction Overview

This chapter: 1. Summarises the known risks of actual and/or potential effects of this operation on: [add to or delete these as required] · Soil and water quality · Non-target native species · Non-target domestic animals · Human health and community well-being · Cultural and spiritual values



· Ecosystems 2. Assesses the significance of the risks for each of the above at this particular site; 3. Discusses options to manage the risks; and 4. Identifies proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate the risk of actual or potential adverse effects. Appendix 2 contains a more detailed review of the effects of [name of pesticide].

Section 5.2 Effects of proposed operation on soil and water quality Soil and water quality

[Identify and assess what is known actual and potential effects of operation on soil and water values within the treatment area. It is important to note the latest in research findings so use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information.]

Section 5.2.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects of proposed operation on soil and water quality Consent conditions for soil and water quality

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on soil and water, including wetlands, streams, rivers, lakes and the coastal marine area. Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Section 5.3 Effects of proposed operation on non-target native species Effect on native birds

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on native birds. Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information. Copy relevant summary text and provide detail text for threatened fauna listed in section 3.3 of this AEE.]



Effect on Invertebrates

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on invertebrates. Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information. Copy relevant summary text and provide detail text for threatened fauna listed in section 3.3 of this AEE.]

Effect on reptiles

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on reptiles. Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information. Copy relevant summary text and provide detail text for threatened fauna listed in section 3.3 of this AEE.]

Effect on fish and other aquatic fauna

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on fish and other aquatic fauna. Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information. Copy relevant summary text and provide detail text for threatened fauna listed in section 3.3 of this AEE.]

Section 5.3.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects on non-target native species Consent conditions for non-target native species

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on non-target wildlife. Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Section 5.4 Effects of proposed operation on non-target domestic animals Effect on livestock

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on livestock. It is important to note the latest in research findings so use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information, copying relevant text.]



Effect on dogs

[Identify and assess what is known about the actual and potential effects of operation on dogs. It is important to note the latest in research findings so use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information, copying relevant text.]

Section 5.4.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects on non-target domestic animals Consent conditions for livestock

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on livestock. Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Consent conditions to protect dogs

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on dogs. Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Section 5.5 Effects of proposed operation on human health and community well-being Effects on human health and community well-being

[Discuss the actual and potential effects of operation on human health and community well-being. This discussion should include: · a brief summary of what is known about the risk of using

the preferred pesticide; · an assessment of the risk from your proposed operation

(include both real and/or perceived risk, and risk to drinking water supplies and catchments, townships/communities, or where the operation is adjacent to public areas); and

· options available to manage the risk to people.] Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information, copying relevant text.]



Section 5.5.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects on human health and community well-being Consent conditions for human health

[State what measures will be taken to manage the risk to people. Consider: · Bait type, toxic loading, rate of application and area of

distribution; · Areas where no baits will be laid; · Confining the application to the operational area; · Timing of the operation; · Restrictions on public access Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Operational Planning for Animal Pest Operations SOP

The Operational Planning for Animal Pest Operations SOP shall be followed in this operation. This SOP includes standards and procedures to minimise the public risks from pesticide use on lands managed by DOC to adequately inform the public about pesticide operations and to meet legal requirements relating to consultation and notification. It includes standards and procedures for communicating with the public: · Before bait application (e.g., communication planning); · During the operation (e.g., warning sign standards); · After the operation (e.g., post operational updates) This SOP also provides standards and procedures for:

· Defining and confirming operation boundaries, including exclusion zones and sensitive areas, when planning a pesticide operation; and

· Ensuring operators are fully briefed before an operation commences

Safe Handling of Pesticides SOP

The Safe Handling of Pesticides SOP shall be followed in this operation. This SOP aims to ensure pesticides used in animal pest operations are handled, transported and disposed of as safely as possible and contains standards to minimise worker exposure and meet legal requirements relating to the field use of pesticides. These include:



· Standard for safety planning and briefings · Standards to be met at all times (e.g., label compliance,

supervision, tracking, storage and transport); · Operational standards and procedures covering bait

preparation, use, clean-up and disposal; · Minimum specifications for personal protective

equipment; and · Procedures for accidents, spills, loss of pesticides and

poisoning

Disposal standards include: · Surplus pesticide is stored in its original packaging

with the manufacturer’s label attached and MSDS available.

· Used or redundant pesticide scheduled for disposal must be: - Securely contained with the manufacturers label, and - Taken to a disposal facility approved by a local

authority, and - Delivered with the product MSDS to disposal

personnel who are approved handlers (where required under HSNO e.g., 1080, pindone); or where transport to disposal facility impractical/unsafe, follow the label regarding disposal

· Contaminated packaging and equipment for disposal must be sealed in clearly labelled containers, which identify contents and are taken to a disposal facility approved by a local authority; or where transport to disposal facility impractical/unsafe, follow the label regarding disposal.

· Regional Council and Local Authority disposal requirements for pesticides, containers, equipment, carcasses must be met at all times (e.g., discharge consent to air/water).

· Contaminated safety equipment, machinery and any other equipment that has been in contact with the pesticide are thoroughly washed at a location where runoff is unlikely to enter any natural water body.

Section 5.6 Effects of proposed operation on cultural and spiritual values Cultural and spiritual values

[Outline the outcome of consultation with tangata whenua in identifying and assessing the actual and potential effects of proposed operation on cultural and spiritual values. Be sure to include both positive and negative effects.



Discuss options to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects with tangata whenua and state outcome of this discussion.]

Section 5.6.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects of proposed operation on cultural and spiritual values Consent conditions

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on cultural and spiritual values.]

Section 5.7 Effects of proposed operation on ecosystems Effects on ecosystems

[Identify and assess actual and potential effects of operation on ecosystems. Do not repeat previous assessments of effects on soil and water values and non-target species. Ecosystem effects include both primary and secondary effects of pesticide use on the plant and animal communities within the treatment area. Use the online version of the DOC Pesticide Information Reviews for this information, copying relevant text.]

Section 5.7.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects on effects on ecosystems Consent conditions for effects on ecosystems

[State what measures will be taken to avoid adverse effects on ecosystems. Include all relevant compulsory performance standards from the DOC Performance Standards sheets for the pesticide use(s) involved, as well as the additional performance standards you intend to apply. When the same performance standard mitigates more than one risk, repeat this standard using the number you assigned to it the first time.]

Section 5.8 Other adverse effects Other adverse effects

[Would the operation result in any other adverse effects? What are these other effects? What are the options to avoid, remedy or mitigate these effects?]



Section 5.8.1 Proposed consent conditions to avoid, remedy or mitigate other adverse effects Consent conditions for other adverse effects

[State what measures considered necessary to avoid, remedy or mitigate the other adverse effects identified.]

Section 5.9 Conclusion Conclusion on effects and performance standards

[Reach a conclusion about the assessment of environmental effects and whether these adverse effects can be avoided, remedied or mitigated.]

Chapter 6 Public consultation Section 6.1 Introduction Introduction

Public consultation is necessary to inform the public of the proposed operation, to discover the significant issues, and to constructively discuss the means by which any concerns may be addressed. This chapter outlines: · Information made available to the public about the

proposed operation; · Who has been consulted about the proposed operation; · How people have responded to the proposal; · Measures adopted to mitigate the concerns, if any, raised

through the public consultation process; and · Where a notified resource consent is required, what



approvals have been obtained from adversely affected parties in accordance with section 94 of the resource management act 1991

Relevant documentation, including correspondence, is attached in Appendix 3 of this AEE.

Section 6.2 Public consultation process Public consultation process

[Describe the level of consultation and the method[s] used in the preparation of this AEE. List who is being consulted over this operation. When did this consultation occur? What did you do with the results? Where is any relevant correspondence sent and/or received? You must consider the need to canvass the views of recreational users, adjoining landowners, iwi and NGOs and show you have considered ways of addressing any concerns raised. The method of communication must be appropriate to the particular group. The results of consultation are to be recorded in the section overleaf.]

Tangata whenua

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with tangata whenua. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

[Relevant local authority]

[Describe the consultation undertaken with staff from the territorial authority and/or regional council in establishing the information requirements for this AEE. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they? Also describe what contact has been or will be made with other local authorities in the area.]

Adjoining landowners/ occupiers

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with adjoining landowners and occupiers. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

Public, recreational users and

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with the public that may be affected by the operation, including people that directly use the area such as trampers, interest



concession-aires

groups, hunters and concessionaires. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

Fish and Game Council

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with your local Fish and Game Council. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

Conservation Board

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with the Conservation Board. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

Other interest groups

[Describe the method, timing and results of consultation with other interest groups. Do you propose any measures to address concerns raised? If so, what are they?]

Section 6.3 RMA Section 95E approvals RMA Section 95E approvals

[List the affected persons and other relevant persons and describe their response to the proposal. Append all the original and completed Section 95E approval forms in Appendix 3. Seek specialist legal and planning advice from the Conservancy Office for assistance in completing this section.]

Chapter 7 Environmental monitoring and proposed monitoring standards Section 7.1 Introduction Introduction

[Describe the importance of monitoring, including the need to determine: · The achievement of the conservation outcome and/or

operational targets; and · Whether adverse environmental effects have been

avoided, remedied or mitigated.]

Section 7.2 Outcome and result monitoring



Result monitoring

[Describe how you will measure whether the operation has achieved the operational target(s). Look at the Inventory and Monitoring Toolbox for result monitoring options.]

Outcome monitoring

[Discuss the need to monitor the success of the operation on conservation outcomes, including: a) to monitor whether the operation meets the conservation

outcomes set in the operational plan; and b) to monitor the effect on species at risk from the operation. Consider what standards are appropriate.]

Section 7.3 Monitoring the effect on non-target species Fauna monitoring

[Non-target monitoring aims to assess the before and after effect of the operation on non-target species. Describe what monitoring if any of the effect of the operation on non-target species is proposed for the treatment area. Where possible, refer to known monitoring techniques. Options to consider include: · Radio tagging birds; · Invertebrate traps; and · Ground searches for non-target kills Consider both primary and secondary effects.]

Chapter 8 Relevant planning documents Section 8.1 Introduction Introduction

This section assesses whether the proposed operation is consistent with relevant guidelines, plans and/or strategies.

Section 8.2 Resource Management Act 1991 RMA

[Outline the relevant Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA)



requirements considerations. Seek legal and planning advice from DOC specialists to complete this section.]

Assessment of operation against RMA, policies and plans

[Assess the application against the RMA requirements identified above. A range of documents need to be considered for their relevance, including the NZ Coastal Policy Statement; and relevant regional policy statement, regional coastal plan, regional discharge plan, and district plan. Do the plans provide any performance measures and/or assessment criteria relevant to the operation? Do the operations require land use consent? If so, is this consent requirement exempt under RMA Section 4?]

Section 8.3 Conservation Management Strategy and management plans Conservation Management Strategy (CMS)

[Introduce the Region’s CMS. Describe those parts of the Conservation Management Strategy that are relevant to the proposed operation.]

Conservation /National Park management plans

[Introduce relevant conservation or national park management plans. Describe those parts of the plan(s) that are relevant to the proposed operation. For operations within national parks, also refer to relevant provisions of the National Parks General Policy.]

Section 8.4 Other guidelines, plans and/or strategies Other management guidelines, plans and/or strategies

[Describe those parts of any departmental guidelines, plans and/or strategies that are relevant to the operation, such as a national plan for the control of the animal pest, or conservation guidelines specific to the area.]

FOR TEMPLATE USERS: Detailed analysis is NOT required to complete this section Seek specialist legal and planning advice from DOC specialists. Delete this instruction box.



Section 8.5 Conclusion Consistency with guidelines, plans and/or strategies

[Is the proposed operation consistent with the guidelines, plans and/or strategies relevant to this operation and/or treatment area? Why?]

Chapter 9 Conclusion Conclusion

[Provide a summary assessment of the method(s) and pesticide(s) proposed for use in this operation. What are the reasons for and against approving the operation? Reach a final conclusion about the compatibility of the operation with the requirements of the approving bodies (i.e., DOC, public health, and Resource Management Act 1991, as necessary). ]



Appendix 1: Maps [Maps are needed to provide a clear picture of the location of the operation, and associated details. Your map(s) must show the following as a minimum: · NZTM Topo50 Map reference (e.g., BN34) · The external boundary of the treatment area or those treatment blocks

included in this operation · Legal boundaries of land managed by the department · Name of treatment area · Financial year of operation · Land tenure and adjacent owners, including leased land · Any areas excluded from the treatment area (such as around public water

supplies, pa sites) · Location of any warning signs and public information signs · Location of normal points of entry where warning signs must be a minimum

size of A3 · Any water catchments or bodies of water (include rivers, streams, lakes,

reservoirs, wetlands, coastal marine areas) · Recreational facilities (tracks, huts, road ends, roads, picnic sites) · Date map prepared NOTE: 1:50,000 is the preferred scale. Use more than one map if the amount of detail becomes to visually cluttered to be clearly understood.] [List of maps attached with brief description of what they show] Map 1: [Description] Map 2: [Description] Map 3: [Description] Map 4: [Description]



Appendix 2: Review of [name pesticide proposed for use] This review describes and evaluates the pesticide(s) proposed for use in this operation.

FOR TEMPLATE USERS: Insert a copy of the current versions of the DOC Pesticide Information Review(s) applicable to this AEE. Delete this instruction box.



Appendix 3: Communication Record Communica-tion Record

[This records every individual or group who has been consulted about the proposed operation. For example, insert the Communication Record you create as part of the Operational Planning for Animal Pest Operations SOP. The required contents are the following pages of the Communication Plan/Record template:

- Introduction - Consultation on options (if applicable) - Consultation on effects (if applicable) - Toolbox

Correspond-ence

[Append copies of correspondence relevant to this AEE, and referenced in the text.]

Section 95E approvals received

[Append Section 95E approval forms in this appendix. Original forms must go to the council. Retain copies for file and consultations purposes.]



Appendix 4: References List of published references

The following published references were used in developing this AEE. [The references below are cited in the template. You must add to and/or delete from this list if you use further references, or remove sections of the template.]

· [Authors] [Year]: [Pesticide] Pesticide Information Review. Version [No]. Unpublished report docdm-[No], Department of Conservation, Hamilton, NZ. [No]p.

· Shaw, W.B. 1994: Botanical Ranking for Native Conservation DOC Science and Research Series No 72.

· Townsend, A.J., de Lange P.J., Duffy, C.A.J., Miskelly C.M., Molloy J. and Norton D.A. New Zealand Threat Classification System Manual. Dept. of Conservation, Science & Technical Publishing 2008.

· Hitchmough R., Bull L, and Cromarty P. New Zealand Threat Classification Lists 2005. Dept of Conservation, Science & Technical Publishing 2007.

· [Add additional references as needed – including source/author, year, document name, publisher name and location (where applicable).]



Appendix 5: Operations and/or other plans relevant to the application

rma assessment of environmental effects template · [rma aee template - docdm-96227 – change...

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