Download victor harbor environmental management plan 2010-2014

VICTOR HARBOR
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
PLAN 2010-2014
Sustaining Victor Harbor’s Natural Environment
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
2010-2014
CONTENTS
Page No.
BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................................................ 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................................................... 3
STRATEGIC DIRECTION..................................................................................................................................... 4
THE ENVIRONMENTAL VISION BECOMES A PLAN ........................................................................................ 5
LINKS TO OUR OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................................................. 6
™ WATER................................................................................................................................................... 7
™ COAST AND MARINE .......................................................................................................................... 11
™ BIODIVERSITY........................................................................................................................................ 14
™ SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ............................................................................................................. 19
™ WASTE .................................................................................................................................................. 22
™ TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE .......................................................................................................... 25
IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REVIEW ........................................................................................... 28
GLOSSARY OF TERMS....................................................................................................................................... 29
ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................................................................ 31
REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................................... 32
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
BACKGROUND
The City of Victor Harbor’s Environment Management Plan guides Council’s management and protection of the
natural environment, and is underpinned by the City’s Ecological Sustainable Development Policy.
The City of Victor Harbor is required under the Local
Government Act 1999 to take into account the
principles of ecological sustainable development
across all of its activities. The Local
(ESD)
Government Act 1999 also provides the statutory
powers for the Council to operate in a manner to
achieve ecologically sustainable development (ESD).
The
development
of
the
Environmental
Management Plan is seen as a key step toward
implementing a range of environmental initiatives
which will help to achieve continuous improvement
towards
practicing
ecological
sustainable
development.
The Environmental Management Plan has been
developed to guide Council’s direction in
management of the natural environment.
The City’s ESD Policy defines “Environment” the
same as in s528 of the Local Government Act to be:
a Ecosystems and their constituent parts,
including people and communities;
b
Natural and physical resources;
c
The qualities and characteristics of locations,
places and areas; and
d
The social, economic and cultural aspects of a
thing mentioned in (a), (b) or (c)
This definition allows for the natural environment to
be considered as a ‘sub-set’ of environmental
management. This plan considers issues, challenges
and actions associated with the natural
environment.
In April 2009 the Victor Harbor Urban Growth
Management Strategy (UGMS) was endorsed by
Council and is the City of Victor Harbor's long-term
strategic document, providing a set of targeted
strategies and implementation measures to
achieve Council's vision, and direct the sustainable
growth of Victor Harbor to the year 2030.
The UGMS is now one of Councils’ principal governing
documents, providing a strategic framework that
investigates ways of balancing the pressures of a high
level of growth by safeguarding the environment,
lifestyle and prosperity.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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BACKGROUND cont.
The City of Victor Harbor covers a geographical
area of approximately 35,000 hectares on the
Southern Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia and
shares boundaries with Yankalilla and Alexandrina
Councils. The City is located 80 kilometres south of
Adelaide on the shores of Encounter Bay.
Local natural attractions include Granite Island,
Rosetta Head (The Bluff), surf beaches, whale
watching and penguin colonies. Victor Harbor is
nestled between the hills and the coast and
bisected by the City’s two rivers the Hindmarsh and
Inman. This together with its estuaries and wetlands,
significant remnant vegetation, coastal beaches,
cliffs and islands all play an important part in
defining the character and identity of the town,
providing a lifestyle which is highly valued by
residents and a significant attraction for visitors. The
residential and visitor populations place a high
value on these natural resources as a major feature
of the beauty and lifestyle of Victor Harbor.
Council is, undertaking a range of Environmental
Management projects and programs, both in its
own right and in partnership with various agencies
and the community. The community involvement is
both as individuals and groups, carrying out onground works and providing management advice
to Council. Council recognises the importance of
this work as a valuable asset to the community. It is
very important for the City to support such people
and groups, both financially, through assistance
programs and through fostering strong long-term
partnerships.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Victor Harbor Environmental Management Plan
acknowledges the responsibility of Council to
manage its natural environment in a sustainable
manner and demonstrate that to our local
community. Council provides a wide range of
services and interacts with the environment in a
number of ways. The Plan establishes the City’s
environmental vision, objectives and actions that
the Victor Harbor Council has adopted in order to
guide the progress toward sustainability for the next
5 years and beyond. The core areas of
environmental initiatives are encapsulated in the
plan, and include:
ACTION PLANS
To ensure our natural environment is protected and
sustained, the Environmental Management Plan
directs and provides guidance to the following
Action Plans:
•
•
WATER
•
Protect and enhance the water quality in our
watercourses, estuaries, lakes and the marine
environment
Conserve our valuable water resources to protect
potable water supplies and environmental flows
•
•
COAST AND MARINE
Victor Harbor Water Quality and Conservation
Action Plan (under development)
Victor Harbor Biodiversity Action Plan (to be
developed)
Victor Harbor Roadside Vegetation Action Plan
( to be developed)
Victor Harbor Coastal Action Plan (to be
developed)
Victor Harbor Climate Change Action Plan (to
be developed)
There are also a number of other Council Plans
which are linked to the Environmental
Management Plan. These include:
Protect and enhance our coast and marine
environment
BIODIVERSITY
Actively protect and rehabilitate areas of
significant biodiversity value and improve the
integrity of ecosystems upon which all life depends,
so that the quality of life is not diminished now or in
the future.
•
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
•
•
•
•
Plan for and manage orderly urban growth, which
enhances and sustains the natural heritage of the
region
WASTE
Encourage the reduction of waste generation and
disposal and the associated increase in reuse and
recycling resources
TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE
Be proactive in the management of the potential
risks of climate change impacts on the regions
inland, coastal and estuarine areas.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Victor Harbor Recreation & Open Space
Strategy, 2007
Victor Harbor Stormwater Masterplan
Victor Harbor Waste Management Plan, 2006
Victor Harbor Foreshore Coastal Park Open
Space Plan, 2004
Encounter Lakes Management and
Maintenance Plan, 2001
STRATEGIC DIRECTION The Victor Harbor Environmental Management Plan is part of Council’s overall vision:
State NRM Plan
AMLR NRM Plan (Creating a
Sustainable Future)
Other Plans & Strategies
City of Victor Harbor Strategic Plan
2011 - 2021
AMLR NRM Plan (Creating a
Sustainable Future)
Other Regional Plans &
Strategies
STRATEGIC
Southern Fleurieu
Roadside Vegetation
Management Plan
2010
Victor Harbor
Environmental Management Plan
2010 - 2014
Southern Fleurieu
Coastal Action Plan,
2007
Victor Harbor
Coast & Estuarine
Action Plan *
State Strategic Plan
30 Year Plan for Greater
Adelaide
VH Urban Growth
Management Strategy
Victor Harbor
Biodiversity
Action Plan *
Victor Harbor
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan *
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan *
Victor Harbor
Roadside Vegetation
Management Plan *
STRATEGIC
PROJECTS & ACTIONS
VH Asset
Management Plan
PROJECTS & ACTIONS
Business Plan (4 Years)
Annual Work Plans and Operational Plans
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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VH Long Term
Financial Plan
* Action Plans to be developed
THE ENVIRONMENTAL VISION BECOMES A PLAN
OUR VISION
NATURAL ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY
A sustainable city that protects and
enhances its natural resources so that
current and future generations will be able
to live and grow in a clean, healthy and
beautiful environment.
150 years of habitation by European settlers in the
Victor Harbor Region has seen significant changes
take place in the health of the Regions natural
environment. For the Region to be sustainable into
the
future,
careful
management
of
the
environment is needed. Management must take
into account all of the natural, social, economic
and organisational systems on which life depends.
OUR PLAN
The preparation of the Environmental Management
Plan has involved referral to a number of external
and internal plans and strategies. Where
appropriate aspects of these documents have
been incorporated to ensure consistency. There is a
legislative requirement under Section 122 of the
Local Government Act 1999 to ensure in the
preparation
of
any
management
plan
consideration is given to regional, state and
national objectives and strategies. In particular this
document has been guided by the objectives of
the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide (2010) and
Council’s Urban Growth Management Strategy
(2008). Future revisions of the Environmental
Management Plan will be strongly guided by the
CVH Strategic Directions 2010 – 2020.
Council recognises that we must protect our natural
assets if we are to assure their long term prosperity.
Our sustainability direction therefore focuses on one
part, our natural assets – water, biodiversity, land,
marine, flora and fauna, and how Victor Harbor
can achieve the balance between their use and
maintaining the ecosystem services they provide.
The Environmental Management Plan will assist
Council to lead by example through applying the
principles of sustainability into everyday practices,
while maintaining an economic, social, cultural and
environmental balance. The Plan also endeavors
to empower and inspire the Victor Harbor
community to incorporate sustainable actions into
their everyday lives.
The Victor Harbor Environmental Management Plan
provides a set of objectives, approaches and
actions that will be applied across Council’s
planning
and
operational
activities.
The
implementation of the Plan will provide a vital step
toward protecting and enhancing our natural
environment and sustainability for our community.
STRUCTURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Objectives for the Environmental Management Plan have been derived from the Victor Harbor Urban
Growth Management Strategy, with consideration of the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide (Policies and
Targets) and the AMLR Regional NRM Plan ‘Creating a Sustainable Future’ (20yr Targets). With the development
of the Strategic Directions Plan future revisions will be guided by this document. The table on the following
page illustrates the linkages between these plans and the Environmental Management Plan Objectives.
These objectives have given rise to the core areas of environmental initiatives encapsulated in the plan, and
include Water, Coast & Marine, Biodiversity, Sustainable Planning, Waste and Climate Change.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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LINKS TO OUR OBJECTIVES
VICTOR HARBOR
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010 - 2014
OBJECTIVES
1. To protect and enhance the water quality in our
watercourses, estuaries, lakes and the marine
environment.
VICTOR HARBOR
URBAN GROWTH MANAGEMENT
STRATEGY 2008 - 2030
ACTIONS
30 YEAR PLAN FOR GREATER
ADELAIDE
2009 – 2039
PRINCIPLES
ADELAIDE & MOUNT LOFTY RANGES
NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGMENT PLAN
20 YEAR TARGETS
2.9, 7.2, 7.3
12, 13, 14
T1, T2, T3, T 4, T10, T11, T12, T13
2.10
12, 14
T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, T13
4. Actively protect and rehabilitate areas of
significant biodiversity value and improve the
integrity of ecosystems upon which all life
depends, so that the quality of life is not
diminished now or in the future.
1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 2.2
12, 13, 14
T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, T13
5. Plan for and manage orderly urban growth
which enhances and sustains the natural
heritage of the region.
1.1, 2.8
13, 13, 14
T1, T3, T4, T5, T13
2. To Conserve our valuable water resources to
ensure future potable water supplies and
environmental flows.
3. Protect and enhance our coast and marine
environment
6. Encourage the reduction of waste generation
and disposal and the associated increase in
reuse and recycling resources.
7. Be proactive in the management of the
potential risks of climate change impacts on
the regions inland, coastal and estuarine
areas.
T2, T10, T13
4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4
11, 14
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12,
T13
WATER
Objective 1. To protect and enhance the water quality
in our watercourses, estuaries, lakes and
the marine environment.
Objective 2. To conserve our valuable water resources
to ensure future potable water supplies
and environmental flows.
Watercourse: natural channel through which water flows.
Lake: an inland body of fresh water or salt water
Marine: a general term for thing relating to the sea or ocean.
Potable: a term for water suitable for human consumption.
Environmental Flows: is the amount of water needed in a watercourse to maintain healthy ecosystems
Victor Harbor is blessed with unique and diverse
there is runoff from the catchment, whilst the salinity
levels recorded tend to have high values recorded
in summer months due to reduced flows. If left
unregulated, elevated turbidity and nutrient levels
are the most likely water quality problems this
watercourse will continue to encounter.
range of waterways. With its two major rivers, the
Inman and Hindmarsh of which their freshwater
streams flow south from the Southern Mount Lofty
Ranges into the Southern Ocean at Victor Harbor.
These rivers provide almost continuous corridors of
vegetation providing refuge for native wildlife. The
river estuaries serve an important ecological
function because they are the interface between
saline and fresh water and land and sea.
The City’s waterways experience significant
pressure from a range of threatening processes.
These include
• urban development
• elevated nutrient levels
• polluted stormwater runoff
• erosion and sedimentation
• loss of riparian and instream habitat
• environmental weeds
Land use in the Hindmarsh River catchment is
predominantly irrigated and non-irrigated grazing.
Other land uses include dairy farming, forestry,
conservation and horticulture. Results from water
quality monitoring undertaken by the EPA showed
continuous elevated nitrogen and phosphorus
levels caused by runoff from fertilisers and animal
wastes.
The poor water quality and condition of the Inman
River has been a community concern since the
1930's. There are also causes of water quality
decline from the urbanised areas of Victor Harbor.
These include stormwater runoff containing
hydrocarbons, sediments, organic matter and litter.
Until December 2005 the Old Victor Harbor Waste
Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) discharged treated
wastewater into the river.
The elevated nutrient and turbidity levels in the
Hindmarsh River tend to vary seasonally. The highest
values are recorded in the winter months when
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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WATER
The Victor Harbor Waste Water Treatment Facility
now treats sewage to a 'Class A' reuse standard.
'Class A' is the highest quality of recycled water;
safe for a number of uses including irrigation of
gardens and crops, livestock drinking water, toilet
flushing, car washing and other uses. This has
greatly reduced the discharge of harmful nutrients
into the local environment.
Achievements
The City of Victor Harbor:
Most of the treated waste water is now stored at
the old Hindmarsh Valley Reservoir for later use,
however there is still some release of water into the
Lower Inman during winter. However due to the
quality and these releases, they are unlikely to
impact on the water quality of the Lower Inman.
Encounter Lakes is a man made lake system, which
provides a passive recreation lake as a central
feature to a residential subdivision. The lake is used
for recreation purposes with 2 community and 4
landlocked beaches.
Under the Joint Venture Agreement, the City of
Victor Harbor agreed to accept responsibility to
maintain the lake, lake edge, tidal flushing pipe
and its entire ancillary works, the beach areas and
other reserves within the development after
completion of the maintenance period.
The City of Victor Harbor has recognised that there
is a need for adequate planning to manage runoff
from existing and future development As a result
environmental consultants Kellogg Brown & Root
(KBR) were commissioned to develop an Urban
Stormwater Master Plan (USMP) as a means of
ensuring this objective is achieved with
an
integrated and coordinated approach.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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•
Has established a partnership with (International
Council for Local Environmental Initiatives –
Water Campaign (ICLEI WC).
•
Supports water quality monitoring of the Inman
and Hindmarsh Rivers and Encounter Lakes.
•
Supports a partnership with Victor Harbor High
School for the Billabong Restoration Project.
•
Is actively involved in watercourse restoration
projects.
•
Supports the employment of NRM Officers with
the AMLR NRM Board.
•
Is working with SA Water to provide recycled
water for irrigation connection to sporting fields
and reserves in Victor Harbor.
•
Increases
the
requirements
for
new
developments to contain excess stormwater on
site.
•
Makes improvements and invest in stormwater
management infrastructure including wetlands,
silt traps and gross pollutant traps.
•
Continues a program of water conservation in
its parks & reserves.
WATER
Partnerships
There are a number of agencies, groups and
individuals committed to protecting our local
waterways.
Groups:
• Victor Harbor Coastcare
• Hindmarsh Tiers Biodiversity Group
• Inman River Catchment Group
• Victor Harbor High School
Agencies:
• SA Water
•
Environmental Protection Authority
• ALMR NRM Board
Supporting documents
• Southern Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan and
Conservation Priority Study, 2007
• Encounter
Lakes
Management
and
Maintenance Plan
• Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board
Regional NRM Plan ‘Creating a Sustainable
Future’, 2008
• Inman River Estuary Action Plan (Draft) 2010
• Hindmarsh River Estuary Action Plan (Draft) 2010
• The Watercourse Management Guidelines for
the Inman River Catchment
• Salinity and Water Quality Management in the
Inman River, Waitpinga, and Coolawang Creek
Catchments
• Urban Stormwater Master Plan Stages 1 & 2
• Floodplain Mapping and Floodplain
Management Plan (Draft) 2009
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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WATER
ACTIONS
1.1: Develop the Victor Harbor Water
Quality and Conservation Action Plan
RESPONSIBILTY
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
PARTNERS
MONITORING/INDICATORS
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Infrastructure
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMR NRM Board
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Infrastructure
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMR NRM Board
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
Encounter Lakes
Residents Group
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Operations
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMR NRM Board,
VHCC, IRCG
Maintain or improve number of
projects/ people involved in onground works
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMR NRM Board,
IRCG
Monitor outcomes of programs
against Council Environmental
objectives
1.6: In Partnership with the AMLR NRM
Board instigate actions from the
Estuary Management Plans for the
Inman and Hindmarsh rivers.
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
AMR NRM Board
Consider actions from the Estuary
Action Plans for implementation
1.7: Continue to support community
engagement programs that
encourage a sense of community
stewardship towards local water
environments.
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Coast & Estuarine
Action Plan
Water Quality and
Conservation
Action Plan
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMR NRM Board,
Local Schools,
Community,
Environmental
Groups
Maintain or increase community
involvement in programs
protecting local waterways
1.8 Integrate WSUD guiding principles to
promote better integrated water
management
Manager
Infrastructure
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Director Planning
and Regulatory
Services
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
Developers
Maintain or improve water quality
measurements.
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
SA Water
Uptake of water re-use initiatives
1.10 Continue to make improvements to
stormwater management identified in
the Council’s Urban Stormwater
Master Plan.
Manager
Infrastructure
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
AMLR NRM Board
Continued improvements in
stormwater management and
ultimately water quality
1.11 Implement strategies of the Victor
Harbor Flood Mapping Plan as they
relate to water conservation or water
quality
Manager
Infrastructure
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
State Govt.
Federal Govt.
AMLR NRM Board
Improved management of
stormwater and reuse options
1.2: Implement key priority actions within
the Victor Harbor Water Quality and
Conservation Action Plan
1.3: Continue to effectively implement the
Encounter Lakes Management and
Maintenance Plan
1.4: Support work of on-ground community
based organisations and projects
1.5: Maintain support to NRM Officers with
ALMR NRM Board, where this meets
the Council’s environmental
management objectives
1.9 Developing water conservation and
re-use initiatives
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Develop Plan by 2011
EPA
Maintain or improve water quality
measurements.
Reduction in water usage in
Council reserves and facilities.
Maintain water quality in Lakes
that allows for primary contact
recreational use
AMLR NRM Board
COAST AND MARINE
Objective 3. Protect and enhance our coast and
marine environment
Coast: The coast is defined as where the land meets the sea
Marine: a general term for things relating to the sea or ocean
and intertidal flats, some of which are important
nursery habitats for a range of marine fauna.
Victor
Harbor is renowned for it’s beautiful
coastline scenery which attracts visitors and
residents to the region. The 47 Kilometre coast
includes sandy beaches and dunes, underwater
reefs and spectacular cliff lines. This diverse
environment includes a variety of habitats with
significant flora, fauna and geological features.
The Marine Park is also home to a number of rare
and endangered species, including: Southern Right
Whales (amongst others); fish species such as the
Blue Groper and Leafy Sea Dragon; as well as
approximately 100 species of marine and coastal
water birds, some of which are listed on
international bird treaties and/or are considered
rare or vulnerable in South Australia.
The coast has great significance to the local
aboriginal peoples the Ramindjeri, and their
dreaming stories incorporate the creation of the
Bluff, the islands, the rivers and estuaries.
There are also numerous reefs and shallow rocky
outcrops that provide important habitats for a
range of marine fauna in the area north of the
causeway and south-west of Police Point.
The Inman and Hindmarsh Rivers and a number of
smaller waterways flow to the coast where they
enter the marine environment. Here there are
significant estuaries with both the Inman and
Hindmarsh estuaries listed on the Register of the
National Estate.
The coastal environment is under significant ongoing pressure from a range of threatening
processes. These include urban development, feral
plants and animals, increasing recreation use and
the impacts of rising sea levels and climate change.
The coast will also be the interface with the
Encounter Marine Park, which will provide other
opportunities and challenges for the community.
Encounter Marine Park is South Australia’s first
proposed representative Marine Protected Area.
The area covers 2,400m2 of coast and ocean
between the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo
Island. The Marine Park includes a variety of marine
habitats that are typical to southern Australia:
sandy beaches; rocky shores, kelp forests and other
algal habitats; and extensive seagrass meadows
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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COAST AND MARINE
Agencies
Achievements
The Agencies include:
• Department of Environment and Heritage
• Environmental Protection Agency
• AMLR NRM Board
The City of Victor Harbor:
•
Removes exotic weed species and
revegetated areas of the coast with local
indigenous species.
•
Supports the employment of a Coast, Estuarine
& Marine Officer with District Council of
Yankalilla, Alexandrina Council and the AMLR
NRM Board.
•
Supports the formation and development of
local community groups.
•
Develops boardwalks and fencing to protect
the fragile coastal environment.
•
Continues to upgrade and improve access to
beaches for residents and visitors, and protect
the fragile coastal environment.
•
Carries out Coastal protection works including
installation of sandbag groynes and rock
protection.
Supporting documents
Over recent years a number of strategic
documents which relate to the management
of the coast and marine environment have
been produced:
•
•
•
Partnerships
There are a number of committed groups and
agencies involved in the protection of the
coast.
Groups
The groups include:
• Victor Harbor Coastcare
• Friends of Wright Island
• Friends of Newland Head
• Friends of Granite Island
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Southern Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan,
2007
Victor Harbor Foreshore Coastal Park,
Open Space Plan, 2004
Victor Harbor Recreation & Open Space
Strategy, 2007
COAST AND MARINE
O
Objective 3. Protect and enhance our coast and marine environment
ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILTY
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
PARTNERS
MONITORING/INDICATORS
3.1 Continue the Coastal Protection Program in
partnership with the Coastal Protection
Branch of Department of Environment &
Natural Resources (DENR)
Manager
Infrastructure
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Coast &
Estuarine Action
Plan
AMLR NRM
Board, DENR
Coastal
Protection
Branch, EPA
Install 5 Photo points to monitor
Coastal Processes
3.2 Continue to work with neighbouring Councils
and other agencies to enact the Southern
Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Coast &
Estuarine
Action Plan
AMLR NRM
Board,
Alexandrina
Council, DC
Yankalilla,
DENR
Monitor progress of Regional
Actions
AMLR NRM
Board
Monitor success of regional
initiatives
Southern
Fleurieu Coastal
Action Plan
3.3 Continue to support regional coast and
marine initiatives, which have a local
benefit.
3.4 In Partnership with the AMLR NRM Board
instigate actions from the Estuary
Management Plans for the
Inman and Hindmarsh rivers.
3.5 Develop a Victor Harbor Coast and
Estuarine Action Plan
3.6 Implement priority actions from the Victor
Harbor Coast and Estuarine Action Plan
3.7 Continue to support the formation and
development of Coastal community groups
and provide assistance and guidance for
these groups
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Southern
Fleurieu Coastal
Action Plan
Coast &
Estuarine
Action Plan
Coast &
Estuarine Action
Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality
and Conservation
Action Plan
Southern
Fleurieu Coastal
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager Operations
Coast &
Estuarine
Action Plan
Coast &
Estuarine
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager Operations
Southern
Fleurieu Coastal
Action Plan
Coast &
Estuarine
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager Operations
Southern
Fleurieu Coastal
Action Plan
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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AMR NRM
Board
Consider actions from the
Estuary Action Plans for
implementation
AMLR NRM
Board
DEH, VH
Coastcare
Develop Plan by 2011
AMLR NRM
Board
DENR, VH
Coastcare
Monitor implementation progress
AMLR NRM
Board
Seek feedback from groups on
Council’s support
BIODIVERSITY
Objective 4. Actively protect and rehabilitate areas
of biodiversity value and improve the
integrity of ecosystems on which all life
depends.
Biodiversity:
•
•
•
Genetic diversity – sustain the variety of genetic information contained in organisms;
Species diversity – sustain the variety of species; and
Ecosystem diversity - sustain the variety of habitats and communities
Remnant Vegetation
(including Roadside Vegetation)
One
of the significant environmental issues
worldwide is the loss of biodiversity. Biological
diversity is the genetic, species and ecosystem
diversity that exist within a community or ecosystem
and is the variety of all forms and is usually referred
to at three levels, genetic diversity, species diversity
and ecosystem diversity.
The Victor Harbor area has significantly varying soils,
altitudes, rainfall and climatic zones.
These
variables give rise to many vegetation types,
ranging from tall Stringybark Woodland at higher
altitudes, to Coastal Dune associations and River
Estuaries.
A large portion of the earth’s terrestrial biodiversity
consists of the soil and soil organisms such as
bacteria, insects, worms and fungi. These organisms
play a crucial role in breaking down and recycling
wastes and dead organisms. The multitude of
different indigenous trees, shrub and grass species
that can be found within an area are a source of
food and shelter for many different organisms. All of
the species form a network and if this is disturbed by
the removal of one or more species of plant,
animal, fungi or bacteria there could be a negative
flow of effects in other species. This means it is
important for all significant areas of remnant, native
vegetation that still exist to be conserved.
Condition of roadside vegetation in the district
varies from intact remnants of high conservation
value to large tracts that contain very few or no
native species.
The Victor Harbor area has seen over 90% of its
original vegetation cleared for agricultural
purposes, with roadsides as some of the only
remaining areas of remnant vegetation. These
remnants are highly valued as a biological resource
with many also serving as important wildlife
corridors and habitat.
Although the Victor Harbor area retains less than
10% of its original vegetation cover, several large
areas of highly diverse remnant vegetation still exists
in Council reserves, private land under Heritage
Agreements,
roadside
vegetation
and
Conservation Parks.
The lack of native vegetation and increase in
exotic plants and animals in the Victor Harbor
region continues to have a devastating impact on
native flora and fauna. The remnant biodiversity of
our native habitats must be conserved to help
preserve our natural environment and the
ecological services that they provide.
The most significant areas in terms of size include
- Springmount Conservation Park
- Mount Billy Conservation Park
- Newland Head Conservation Park
- Hindmarsh Falls Reserve
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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BIODIVERSITY
Within National and State Acts and strategies that
address biodiversity there is a strong focus on
protecting remnant flora and fauna. The Council
can enhance these Acts, as well as strengthen its
Planning controls to ensure it preserves the
remaining primary conservation areas.
Council, in partnership with various environment
groups, manages a number of significant
biodiversity sites. These include terrestrial, riparian
and coastal reserves, roadside vegetation and
bushcare sites. These sites form essential
components to supporting future viability of the
local ecosystem, while also providing sites of
International, National, and State significance.
Species of Conservation Significance
A number of species in the district are of
conservation significance including:
• Hindmarsh Valley Greenhood (Pterostylis
bryophilla)
• Hooded Plover (Thinornis rubricollis rubricollis)
• Black Chinned Honeyeater (Melithreptus gularis
gularis
• Southern Emu Wren (Stipiturus malachurus
intermedius)
• Southern Brown Bandicoot (Isodon obeselus
obesulus)
• Southern Pygmy Perch (Nanoperca australis).
Council’s Bush for Life (Bushcare) program has
become a valuable part of its biodiversity
conservation program. The development and
review of the Southern Fleurieu Roadside
Vegetation Management Plan helps direct
Council’s efforts in terms of roadside vegetation
management and provides guidelines for Council
employees, contractors, service providers and
landholders to understand the Native Vegetation
Act and protect roadside vegetation.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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BIODIVERSITY
Reserves, Parks and Gardens
Achievements
Council provides a large number of parks, gardens
and reserves, currently numbering 315. With that
level of open space, Council’s aim is to provide an
efficient and effective parks and reserves
maintenance service that protects and enhances
the Councils natural and built environment.
The City of Victor Harbor:
The increasing number of reserves is tied directly to
the residential growth of the area. As residential
subdivisions are built, areas for reserves are setaside as open space for the benefit of the
residents.
These reserves have varying degrees of biodiversity
ranging from single species such as Kangaroo Grass
to pristine vegetation. Council has a program to
revegetate reserves which do not have recreation
potential to increase biodiversity and corridor
linkages.
•
Supports biodiversity enhancement works,
including the removal of environmental and
declared weed species, and revegetation of
areas of reserve and roadsides with local
indigenous species.
•
Supports the employment of NRM Officers with
the AMLR NRM Board.
•
Supports the development and maintenance of
‘Bush for Life’ sites in Victor Harbor in partnership
with Trees for Life.
•
Supports the Hooded Plover recovery project.
•
Supports the formation and development of
local community groups including:
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
ƒ
•
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Inman River Catchment Group
Hindmarsh Tiers Biodiversity Group
Friends of Nangawooka Flora Reserve
Victor Harbor Coastcare
Friends of Wright Island
Developed and maintains a system of Roadside
Vegetation Markers to identify those roadsides
with significant roadside vegetation and
biodiversity value.
BIODIVERSITY
Partnerships
Council values the commitment of local
groups, agencies, and individuals involved in
the protection of biodiversity in Victor Harbor.
Groups:
• Bush For Life
• Victor Harbor Coastcare
• Friends of Wright Island
• Australian Plant Society (Fleurieu Group)
• Friends of Nangawooka
• Friends of Newland Head
• Friends of Granite Island
Agencies:
• Department of Environment and Natural
Resources
• AMLR NRM Board
• Trees for Life
• National Trust of SA
Supporting Documents
Over recent years a number of strategic
documents which relate to the management
of the biodiversity in Victor Harbor have been
produced:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Southern Fleurieu Roadside Vegetation
Management Plan (revised 2010)
Southern Fleurieu Peninsula Local Action
Plan (2004)
Southern Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan
(revised 2007)
AMLR NRM Plan, Creating a Sustainable
Future (2008)
Bluff Reserve Management and
Revegetation Plan (2000)
Victor Harbor Foreshore Coastal Park,
Open Space Plan (2004)
Roadside Vegetation Survey (1997)
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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BIODIVERSITY
ACTIONS
4.1 Continue programs that support biodiversity
protection and enhancement
4.2 Continue to work with the AMLR NRM Board,
adjoining Councils and other agencies to
achieve local and regional biodiversity
outcomes
4.3 Maintain support to NRM Officers with ALMR
NRM Board, where this meets the Council’s
environmental management objectives
4.4 Continue to undertake biodiversity actions
from the Victor Harbor Recreation and
Open Space Strategy.
4.5 Continue to improve environmental
interpretation and signage in natural
reserves and walking trails where
opportunities exist.
4.6 Develop opportunities outlined in the Victor
Harbor Foreshore Coastal Park Open
Space Plan
4.7 Develop V H Biodiversity Action Plan.
4.8 Develop a Victor Harbor Roadside Vegetation
Action Plan for the district.
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
RESPONSIBILTY
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
VH Biodiversity
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
VH Biodiversity
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
VH Open Space
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Operations
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
MONITORING/INDICATORS
AMLR NRM Board
Develop baseline condition
for program sites and
commence 3 yearly
monitoring
AMLR NRM Board,
Alexandrina
Council, DC
Yankalilla, DENR
Continued liaison
AMR NRM Board,
IRCG
Monitor outcomes of
programs against Council
Environmental objectives
Office of
Recreation & Sport,
Planning SA
Monitor achievements against
Actions
VH Biodiversity
Action Plan
AMLR NRM Board
Planning SA
Increased number of
environmental interpretive
signs installed
VH Open Space
Action Plan
VH Coastal Action
Plan
AMLR NRM Board
DENR
VH Biodiversity
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
PARTNERS
VH Biodiversity
Action Plan
VH Roadside
Vegetation Action
Plan
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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AMLR NRM Board
AMLR NRM Board
DENR
Develop Plan by 2012
Develop Plan by 2012
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Objective 5. Plan for and manage orderly
urban growth, which enhances
and sustains the natural heritage
of the region.
Development Planning: any future development planning that impacts on the natural heritage.
Natural Heritage: ecosystems, biological diversity and geodiversity regarded as worthy of conservation/ preservation.
Victor
Harbor is characterised by a small,
regional/coastal feel which is highly valued by its
communities and visitors.
The town has an
impressive array of hills faces, trees, rivers and sea
view. There are key scenic components which
identify Victor Harbor and play an important part of
defining the character and identity of the town.
Development Plan Review
The Development Plan provides a legal framework
to guide future development within a Council area
by establishing planning objectives and zones.
In 2009 Council conducted a structured review of
the Development Plan to identify and prioritise
Development Plan Amendments (DPAs) needed to
achieve desired future development.
The steep topography and landscape setting
contain outward growth and provide rural and sea
views from within and on approach to the town
that contribute to its rural character. The rural
area/green belt between Victor Harbor and Port
Elliot maintains the individual character and identity
of these towns.
As a result of the review and extensive consultation,
simultaneously with Council’s Urban Growth
Management Strategy(UGMS), a series of future
environmental DPAs and planning studies were
recommended. These are included in the Actions
Table on the following page.
Protecting scenic views is an important part of
maintaining character. Inadequate management
of the expansion of urban areas has the potential
to negatively impact on the existing town setting
which is so highly valued by its residents and visitors.
Achievements
• The City of Victor Harbor has prioritised a list
of identified Development Plan
Amendments and studies to be actioned by
Council to the year 2014.
• Council has developed a series of
conditions and guidelines for developers to
guide sustainable development.
Growth
Victor Harbor is amongst the fastest growing
communities in the State. The city has been
experiencing unprecedented growth rates over
the past two decades at up to 6 times the
average growth rate for South Australia. This is
placing significant pressures on the urban growth
boundaries designated by Council. These urban
development pressures are having a direct
impact on the City’s fragile natural areas and the
flora and fauna that these sustain.
Supporting Documents
•
•
The ecological footprint of Victor Harbor
therefore needs to be carefully managed,
particularly if new areas of land are considered
for future urban growth.
•
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Victor Harbor Urban Growth Management
Strategy, 2009
Victor Harbor Section 30 Development Plan
Review, 2009
City of Victor Harbor Development Plan
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILTY
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
5.1 Increasing density, reducing sprawl and
designing new land divisions and buildings in
accordance with Ecologically Sustainable
Development (ESD) principles to reduce the
ecological footprint
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
Victor Harbor
Development
Plan
5.2 Urban Growth DPA – include a co-ordinated
staging plan identified with the UGMS and 30
Yr Plan for Greater Adelaide
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
5.3 Coastal & Recreational DPA – ensure coastal
areas are protected and recreational, open
space and biodiversity conservation areas
are recognised
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
N/A
5.4 Environmental DPA – introduce Water
Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles
and energy efficiency policies within the
Development Plan
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
5.5 Tourism DPA – Incorporate contemporary
tourism policies within Development Plan to
encourage appropriate ecotourism facilities
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
5.6 Climate Change – Undertake partnership
investigations to quantify potential effects of
climate change with recommended strategies
for ‘minimisation’ and ‘adaptation’
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
Manager Environment
& Recreation
5.7 Rural Areas – investigate growth in rural areas
and potential impact on agricultural industry
and the natural environment
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
5.8 Heritage – Review Local Heritage list
PARTNERS
MONITORING/INDICATORS
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
N/A
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
N/A
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
N/A
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Complete by 2014
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
N/A
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Complete by 2014
5.9 Develop Guidelines and Conditions for
developers to assist sustainable development
including Water Sensitive Urban Design
(WSUD) principles.
Principal Planner
Manager Infrastructure
Manager Environment
& Recreation
N/A
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Effective Conditions and
Guidelines continually developed
and improved.
5.10 Incorporate the findings of the Victor Harbor
Landscape Amenity Report in the Victor
Harbor Development Plan (as appropriate)
Director Planning &
Regulatory Services
Victor Harbor
Development
Plan
Department
Planning &
Local
Government
Heritage
Advisor
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
Environmental
DPAs
N/A
Climate Change
Action Plan
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
-20-
Ensure inclusion in Section 30
Development Plan Review in
2014
Complete by 2014
WASTE
Objective 6. Encourage the reduction of waste
generation and disposal and the
associated increase in reuse and
recycling resources.
Waste: Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) includes predominantly household waste (domestic waste) sometimes the addition of
waste generated from non-industrial commercial sources.
surface water. Council, as an interim step, has
negotiated a five year disposal contract for all
waste collected from domestic premises to the
Southern Region Waste Disposal Depot (SRWDD) at
Pedler Creek. While this current arrangement
provides temporary relief it may not be sustainable
over the long term, and Council will need to assess
alternative options for waste disposal.
Waste management is an area of core business
for councils. It encompasses all activities and
services that revolve around collecting, disposing
and reducing waste. In dealing with waste
management, Council seeks to use the most
effective technologies and methods available
while also striving to protect environmental and
public health.
The City of Victor Harbor is a member of the Fleurieu
Peninsula and Kangaroo Island Regional Waste
Management Strategy Committee. This also
comprises of the Alexandrina, Yankalilla and
Kangaroo Island Councils. The committee has
been working towards forming a ‘Fleurieu Regional
Waste Authority’ to implement the
recommendations on the Regional Waste
Management Plan. It is expected that the Authority
will achieve significant cost savings to the member
Councils through minimising the resources required
by each Council to administer waste collection
contracts.
Council aims to provide an environmentally
sustainable waste management system including:
• Strategic direction of waste management
services;
• Domestic, commercial and litter collection;
• Disposal and operation of landfill & transfer station
sites;
• Education and information.
Victor
Harbor’s
refuse
collection
services
approximately 5900 urban and rural properties on
average per week. Victor Harbor’s urban refuse
collection is collected by private contractor and
disposed of at the Southern Region Waste Disposal
Depot at Pedler Creek. Refuse collection in the rural
areas is undertaken by Council, and is disposed of
at the Victor Harbor Landfill and Recycling Depot.
The green organics collected are transported and
processed at the Goolwa Waste & Recycling
Depot, whilst the dry recycling collection is
transported daily to Wingfield during the collection
week for processing at a materials recovery facility.
The most urgent waste management issue for
Council is the imminent closure of the existing
landfill as a result of limited licensed airspace and
Environment Protection Authority (EPA) concerns
with leachate contamination of ground and
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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There has been an ongoing history of negotiations
between Council and the Environment Protection
Authority (EPA) in relation to the Landfill
Environmental Management Plan (LEMP). This
document will serve as the guiding document for
management of the landfill until landfill closure.
WASTE
Waste Management budgets have increased
significantly over recent years to meet compliance
obligations and community expectations with
regards to best practice waste service provision.
Council is meeting its environmental obligations
with regard to the landfill. Large budgets have and
will be required to meet these obligations to ensure
that the landfill complies with EPA landfill closure
guidelines.
Achievements
•
•
•
•
•
Council received a Keep South Australia
Beautiful Inc (KESAB) award for Waste
Management. The award was received for
“New services for Resource Recovery and
Waste Management”.
Mobile phone and printer cartridge recycling
deposit boxes are provided at Council
reception.
Construction of stormwater diversion drains on
both sides of the landfill.
Construction of the leachate evaporation pond
at the Landfill.
Stockpiling clay and cover material in
preparation for constructing the landfill cap.
Partnerships
•
Fleurieu Waste Management Authority
•
Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island
Regional Waste Management Strategy
Committee
•
Environmental Protection Agency
•
Alexandrina Council
•
District Council of Yankalilla
•
Kangaroo Island Council
Supporting documents
•
Victor Harbor Landfill Environmental
Management Plan, 2008
•
Victor Harbor Waste Management Plan, 2006
•
Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Regional Waste
Management Plan, 2007
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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WASTE
jective 6. Encourage the reduction of waste generation and disposal and the
associated increase in reuse and recycling resources.
ACTIONS
6.1 Implement the key recommendations
outlined in the Victor Harbor Waste
Management Plan in conjunction with the
Regional Waste Management Plan.
6.2 Continue to monitor Council’s landfill site to
meet EPA licence requirements for
proposed closure in 2012.
6.3 Implement necessary
actions/recommendations from the
revised Landfill Environmental
Management Plan to take account of the
legislative requirements for post closure
obligations.
6.4 Continue to implement an integrated and
sustainable Regional Waste
Management Strategy in partnership with
Alexandrina, Yankalilla and Kangaroo
Island Councils to rationalise waste
management infrastructure, minimise
waste, and support the recovery and
reuse of recyclable materials.
RESPONSIBILTY
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
PARTNERS
MONITORING/INDICATORS
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
V H Waste
Management
Plan
Fleurieu
Regional Waste
Authority
(FRWA)
Nil
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
V H Waste
Management
Plan
EPA
Groundwater and gas monitoring
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
V H Waste
Management
Plan
EPA
Improved landfill operations
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
V H Waste
Management
Plan
FRWA
Increased waste diversion and
environmental outcomes
V H Waste
Management
Plan
State and
Federal
Government
Increased waste diversion
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
6.5 Continue to participate in the waste oil
collection, Drum Muster and Household
Hazard Waste Collection programs with
continued support from State and
Commonwealth Governments.
Manager Operations
6.6 Continue a program of street sweeping to
reduce pollution entering the stormwater,
and impacting on the rivers and marine
environment.
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
V H Waste
Management
Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Water Quality &
Conservation
Action Plan
Manager
Environment &
Recreation
Zero Waste SA
Manager Operations
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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Nil
Improved stormwater quality
TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE
Objective 7. Be proactive in the management of the
potential risks of climate change
impacts on the region’s inland, coastal
and estuarine areas.
Climate Change: Climate change is a global issue that affects us all. Changes in climate patterns mean that extreme
weather events such as heat waves, floods, storms, droughts and bushfires will become more frequent, more widespread or
more intense.
under the Climate Change and Greenhouse
Emissions Reduction Act 2007. “Talking Climate
Change: South Australia’s Greenhouse Strategy
2007 – 2020” includes an Action Plan for State
Government Agencies to implement, up to 2012.
‘Climate
Change’ is the term often referred to
when explaining changes in the world’s climatic
atmosphere. Australia's climate is changing.
Temperatures have risen, seas are higher, and more
extreme weather events are expected. The South
Australian Natural Resource Management Plan
clearly identifies climate change as one of the most
important issues we are facing. Around the world,
climate change is impacting on Mediterranean
systems similar to ours in South Australia, in a
manner more than for most other climate types
(Bardsley, D 2006).
The City of Victor Harbor is significantly vulnerable
to climatic changes as this will have projected
impacts on sea level rise, due to increased high
temperatures. The increase in energy consumption
in the warmer months combined with extreme
rainfall events will increase the vulnerability of the
region’s low-lying coastal settlements. There is
potential
for
considerable
damage
to
infrastructure, particularly where populations,
tourism and capital investment are large and
growing, and to sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Climate change looms as one of the
greatest threats to the future of our
economic, social and environmental stability
and growth (LGA of SA Climate Change
Strategy 2008-2012).
In 2008 Council became a member of the LGA
Climate Change Technical Panel and in 2007 took
part in a LGA survey which revealed that most
council concerns where the localised impacts of
climate change and the need for requiring
information and assistance to manage and adapt
to the impacts.
A natural resources management study in the
Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges using the
methodology from a recent Australian Greenhouse
Office report found that there are potential areas
under significant threat due to the effects of
climate change including flood management;
surface water and groundwater resources; coastal
management; biodiversity; invasive species; and
bushfires to name a few.
Later in 2008 the Local Government Association
Mutual Liability Scheme (LGAMLS) began a
program of working with South Australian Local
Governments to identify potential risks associated
with climate change.
Planning and adaptation to climate change is
relatively a new concept. South Australia has been
the first State to legislate targets to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, with legal targets for
emission cuts and mandatory renewal targets
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
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TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE
In 2009 The City of Victor Harbor began this process
and workshops were held with LGAMLS risk
consultants and Council staff from all service areas.
During these workshops a detailed vulnerability
analysis of the potential impacts was undertaken
and potential adaptation measures and strategies
to treat unacceptable risks were developed. As a
result the City of Victor Harbor Climate Change
Adaptation Report was prepared to address
climate change risk management and adaptation
planning.
LGA Climate Change Strategy 2008-2012
The strategy encompasses a broader (but highly
consistent) focus than that covered within the
sector agreement. The strategy will focus LGA effort
on climate change across the following areas:
The Key Environmental Impact Areas for the City of
Victor Harbor are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Green building standards for developments
Open space/land use management
Maintaining reserves and infrastructure along
the coastal foreshore
Stormwater management
Biodiversity decline
Bushfire hazards
Key Recommendations from the Climate Change
Adaption Report are included in the Actions Table:
LGA Climate Change Strategy 2008-2012 – Executive Summary
Leadership from Council will play a vital role in
helping its community to better understand and
adapt to climate change.
Achievements
Council is represented on the LGA of SA Climate
Change Technical Panel.
Council has continued to focus on sustainable fleet
management outcomes through the reduction in
C02 emissions and fuel costs by integrating smaller
and lower emission vehicles into its fleet
Supporting Documents
Talking Climate Change:
• South Australia’s Greenhouse Strategy 2007 –
2020, 2006.
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
-25-
•
Local Government Association of SA Climate
Change Strategy 2008—2012, 2008
•
Victor Harbor Climate Change Adaption
Report, 2009.
TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE
ACTIONS
7.1
Develop Victor Harbor Climate Change Action
Plan
RESPONSIBILTY
LINK TO
ACTION PLAN
PARTNERS
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
LGA of SA
MONITORING/INDICATORS
Develop Plan by 2011
AMLR NRM
Board
7.2
Incorporate adaptation strategies and
measures identified in the Victor Harbor
Climate Change Adaptation Report.
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
LGA of SA
Monitor degree of uptake of
adaption strategies in Business
Plans
7.3
Support opportunities for energy efficient
urban design, water sensitive urban design
and sustainable energy generation
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
LGA of SA
Uptake of WSUD & SEG
initiatives , therefore reduced
wastewater run-off & carbon
emissions
7.4
Constrain capital development in low-lying
areas susceptible to sea level rise along the
coast or susceptible to increased flooding risk
adjacent watercourses
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
Developers
Minimal development in low lying
areas
Director Planning &
Regulatory Service
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
LGA of SA
Uptake of energy efficient public
lighting within built up areas &
improved energy efficiency within
public buildings
7.5
Investigate and seek opportunities to improve
energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions within the community & council
operations.
7.6
Raise awareness of climate change risks with
Council and the community to enhance
decision-making and build community
resilience as part of communication and
consultation
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
LGA of SA
Increase in level of community
interest and knowledge in issues
relating to climate change
Consider existing and possible new risks to the
Natural Environment as a result of climate
change. Incorporate risks into Council’s Risk
Management Database and relevant Action
Plans.
Director
Environment &
Infrastructure
Victor Harbor
Climate Change
Action Plan
DENR
AMLR NRM
LGA of SA
Risks to the natural environment
assessed and included in
Council’s Risk Management
Database and relevant Action
Plans.
.
7.7
CITY OF VICTOR HARBOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2010-2014
-26-
AMLR NRM
Board
IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REVIEW
IMPLEMENTATION
It is important the community has the opportunity to understand and be involved with the Council’s
implementation of the Environmental Management Plan.
In order to facilitate its on-going implementation over the next 5 years, the following actions are to be
undertaken:
•
Provide appropriate resources, both financial and staff, for the planning and delivery of the Actions within
the Plan.
•
Seek funding from external sources where available to fund the implementation of the Plan.
•
Establish an Environmental Management Plan Implementation Group, including key stakeholders to
oversee and advise the on-going implementation of the Plan.
•
The City’s Environment and Infrastructure Department will prepare a series of action plans designed to take
the Environmental Management Plan to an implementation level. The initial responsibility for coordinating
the development of these action plans rests with the Manager Environment & Recreation.
MONITORING
In order to monitor the implementation of the Plan, the City’s Environment and Infrastructure Department will
report to Council on the Implementation Program. This report will refer to the monitoring/indicators in each
section of the Environmental Management Plan, as well as broader strategic indicators contained within the
Council’s Community Plan.
REVIEW
The Plan covers the period from 2010 to 2014. A minor review will be undertaken in 2012. During this review time
Council will seek input from key stakeholders. This will enable a clear assessment of Council’s performance to
achieve the specified action targets within each section of the plan.
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Best Practice - Managing and implementing activities in ways that are designed to achieve agreed and
beneficial environmental outcomes and performance targets.
Biodiversity - Is the totality of the variety of living organisms, the genetic differences among them and the
communities and ecosystems in which they occur. It is the natural wealth of the earth, which supplies all of our
food and much of our shelter and raw materials.
Catchment - An area of land that drains naturally to its lowest point.
Chlorophyll - Is a green pigment found in plants. It absorbs sunlight and converts it to sugar during
photosynthesis. Chlorophyll a concentrations are an indicator of phytoplankton abundance and biomass in
coastal and estuarine waters. They can be an effective measure of trophic status, are potential indicators of
maximum photosynthetic rate and are a commonly used measure of water quality.
Climate Change - A change of climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the
composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over
comparable time periods.
Co-Mingled Materials - Materials all mixed together such as plastic bottles with paper, glass and metal
containers. Commingled recyclable materials require sorting after collection before they can be recycled.
Conservation - The protection, preservation and careful management of natural resources.
DrumMUSTER - Is the National program that has been set up for the collection and recycling of cleaned eligible
non returnable crop production and on-farm animal health chemical containers.
Ecological footprint - A concept that defines a theoretical area of land (hectares per person) needed to
provide products for human consumption as well as that required for waste disposal.
Ecologically Sustainable Development - Is development that aims to meet the needs of society today, while
conserving ecosystems for the benefit of future generations. To do this will require using environmental
resources in ways that maintain and, where possible, improves their range, variety and quality. Sustainability
also involves trying to balance social, economic and environmental goals.
Ecosystem - A community of organisms interacting with one another plus the environment in which they live
and with which they also interact.
Effluent – Is wastewater that has been treated in a wastewater treatment plant.
Endemic - Native to a country or locality – as in: “the gum tree is endemic to Australia”.
Environmental Weed – An exotic or Australian native flora growing beyond their natural range that have, or
have the potential to have, a detrimental effect on natural values.
Fauna - The collective name for the animals or animal life of any particular region.
Flora - The collective name for the plants or plant life of any particular region.
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Geodiversity - Is the variety of earth materials, forms and processes that constitute and shape the Earth, either
the whole or a specific part of it. Relevant materials include minerals, rocks, sediments, fossils, soils and water.
Forms may comprise folds, faults, landforms and other expressions of morphology or relations between units of
earth material
Green Belt - Is the term given to the area of undeveloped or agricultural land surrounding an urban
development.
Grey Water - Domestic wastewater from washing machines, showers, baths and dishwashing.
Gross Pollutant Trap - A structural device placed within the stormwater drainage system to collect litter and
debris washed into drains.
Habitat - The normal abode or locality of an animal or plant.
Indigenous - Native or original to an area, not introduced from outside the particular region or environment.
Microbial loads - The total number of bacteria and fungi in a given quantity of water
Natural Resources Management - The sustainable management of Victor Harbor’s natural resources (our land,
water, marine and biological systems) is vital if we are to ensure our ongoing social, economic and
environmental wellbeing.
Ngarrindjeri - (meaning The People) are a group of 18 clans (lakinyeri) with similar language dialects and family
connections of whom are the traditional Aboriginal people of the lower Murray River, western Fleurieu
Peninsula, and Coorong, Australia.
Ramindjeri - Aboriginal pre-European custodians of the land.
Remnant Vegetation - Any patch of native indigenous vegetation remaining in an area where most or all of the
original distribution has been removed.
Resource Recovery - The process of obtaining matter or energy from waste.
Riparian - The area adjacent to the edge of a waterway, including the banks.
Stormwater - Is runoff from hard surfaces like roads, roofs, pavements and car parks.
Sustainability - The simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, social equity and environmental quality.
Topography - The configuration of a surface and the relations among its man-made and natural features.
Turbidity - The amount of solid particles that are suspended in water and that cause light rays shining through
the water to scatter. Thus, turbidity makes the water cloudy or even opaque in extreme cases. Turbidity is
measured in nephelometric turbidity units (NTU).
Water Sensitive Urban Design - A philosophical approach to urban planning and design that aims to minimise
the hydrological effect of urban development on the surrounding environment.
Wetlands - Areas of either permanent or ephemeral (temporary) shallow flooding with water that can be fresh,
brackish or saline.
Wildlife Corridor - A vegetated strip of land linking wildlife habitat areas.
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ABBREVIATIONS
AMLR NRM Board - Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board
CVH - City of Victor Harbor
DC Yankalilla – District Council of Yankalilla
DEH - Department of Environment and Heritage
DTEI - Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure
DWLBC - Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation
EMP - Environment Management Plan
EPA - Environment Protection Authority
ESD - Ecologically Sustainable Development
FRWA - Fleurieu Regional Waste Authority
GPT - Gross Pollutant Trap
ICLEI WC - International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives Water Campaign
IRCG - Inman River Catchment Group
KBR - Kellogg Brown & Root Pty Ltd
KESAB - Keep South Australia Beautiful
LEMP – Landfill Environment Management Plan
LGA of SA - Local Government Association of South Australia
LGAMLS - Local Government Association Mutual Liability Scheme
NRM - Natural Resources Management
SEG - Sustainable Energy Generation
SF - Southern Fleurieu
SFCAP - Southern Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan
SRWDD - Southern Region Waste Disposal Depot
UGMS - Urban Growth Management Strategy
USMP – Urban Stormwater Master Plan
VH – Victor Harbor
WQMP - Water Quality Management Plan
WSUD - Water Sensitive Urban Design
WWTP - Waste Water Treatment Plant
VHCC - Victor Harbor Coastcare
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REFERENCES
•
30-year Plan for Greater Adelaide, 2009
•
City of Victor Harbor Climate Change Adaptation Report, 2009
•
Local Government Association of SA Climate Change Strategy, 2008 – 2012
•
South Australia’s State NRM Plan, 2006
•
Southern Fleurieu Coastal Action Plan and Conservation Priority Study, 2007
•
Talking Climate Change: South Australia’s Greenhouse Strategy 2007 – 2020 Bardsley, D 2006. There’s a
change on the way- initial integrated assessment of projected climate change impacts and adaptation
options for Natural Resource Management in Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges Region, DWLBC Report
2006/06, Government of South Australia, through Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity
Conservation, Adelaide.
•
The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board NRM Plan : Creating A
Sustainable Future An Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan For The Adelaide And Mount Lofty
Ranges Region, 2008
•
The Southern Fleurieu Peninsula Roadside Vegetation Management Plan, 2005 (currently under review)
•
Victor Harbor Ecologically Sustainable Development Policy Document, 2008 (Draft)
•
Victor Harbor Foreshore Coastal Park Open Space Plan, 2004
•
Victor Harbor Landfill Environment Management Plan, 2008
•
Victor Harbor Strategic Directions, 2006/2009
•
Victor Harbor Urban Growth Management strategy, 2008 -2030
•
Victor Harbor Urban Stormwater Master Plan, 2005
•
Victor Harbor Waste Management Plan, 2006
•
Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Regional Waste Management Plan, 2007
•
City of Victor Harbor Development Plan
•
Victor Harbor Section 30 Development Plan Review, 2009
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