Download vegetation survey summary 2008/075

DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT ENERGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TRANSPORT SERVICES DIVISION
VE 102
MINUTES forming ENCLOSURE to
TSD 2008/11397/01
VEGETATION SURVEY SUMMARY
2008/075
PROJECT:
Naracoorte Rail Siding
Between Doolans Road and Gumpoint Road
TRANSPORT SERVICES DIVISION (TSD) INTERNAL CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
Does this site contain vegetation requiring approval under TSD Vegetation
Removal Policy? (tick relevant box)
YES
NO
Number of trees/shrubs requiring approval under TSD Vegetation Removal Policy.
10
2
650m2
m of vegetation requiring approval under the TSD Vegetation Removal Policy.
DEVELOPMENT ACT, 1993
Does this site contain vegetation which is covered by the Development Act?
(tick relevant box)
Council Name :
YES
NO
District Council of Naracoorte Lucindale
Number of trees requiring approval under the Development Act (excluding those which are also
covered by the Native Vegetation Act, 1991)
NATIVE VEGETATION ACT, 1991
Does this site contain vegetation which is covered by the Native Vegetation Act?
(tick relevant box)
YES
NO
Number of trees/shrubs requiring approval under the Native Vegetation Act (including those which
13
are also covered by the Development Act, 1993)
m2 of vegetation requiring approval under the Native Vegetation Act
650m2
Vegetation clearance at this site is likely to be considered at serious variance with the following Principles of
Clearance under the Native Vegetation Act.
‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if in the opinion of the Council [tick relevant box(es)]:
a)
it comprises a high level of diversity of plant species;
b)
it has significance as a habitat for wildlife;
c)
it includes plants of a rare, vulnerable or endangered species;
d)
the vegetation comprises the whole, or part, of a plant community that is rare, vulnerable or
endangered;
e)
it is significant as a remnant of vegetation in an area which has been extensively cleared;
f)
it is growing in, or in association with, a wetland environment;
g)
it contributes significantly to the amenity of the area in which it is growing or is situated;’
Other variance issues are likely to be highlighted by the Soil Board or the local council. See Main Report
COMMONWEALTH ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION ACT, 1999
Is this site within, near or contain a declared Ramsar Wetland or any other
threatened environment; and/or contains, or is likely to contain, species (flora &
fauna) which is/are covered by the Commonwealth Environment Protection &
Biodiversity Conservation Act? (tick relevant box). See Main Report
YES
NO
BROOM RAPE
PHYTOPHTHORA
Is this site situated within the designated
Branched broomrape (Orobanche ramosa) area?
The site is situated within the following
Phytophthora Risk Area (tick relevant box)
Nil or very Low Risk
Moderate Risk
High Risk
(tick relevant box)
YES
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NO
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DEPARTMENT FOR TRANSPORT ENERGY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TRANSPORT SERVICES DIVISION
VE 102
VEGETATION SURVEY MAIN REPORT
2008/075
PROJECT:
Naracoorte Rail Siding
Between Doolans Road and Gumpoint Road
1.
GENERAL
The following report indicates the state of the existing vegetation as surveyed and its landscape and/or
ecological significance. The survey was undertaken in accordance with Transport Services Division
(TSD) Guideline, VE 101, Vegetation Survey Guidelines.
2.
DEVELOPMENT ACT, 1993
This site is situated in the District Council of Naracoorte Lucindale, Current Development Act 1993
requirements in regard to ‘Significant Trees’ do not apply for this council area.
3.
GENERAL SITE DESCRIPTION
The survey area is located approximately 2km south west of Naracoorte and consists of a disused rail
line. The survey area started at Doolans Road and finished at Gumpoint Road. The survey area was
approximately 2.2km in length whilst the width of the survey area varied between 40m and 60m from
fenceline to fenceline. The surrounding land use was predominantly sheep grazing and viticulture with
little visible native vegetation present other than the occasional scattered tree.
The survey site is located within the Naracoorte Coastal Plain (NCP) IBRA Region and within the
Lucindale (NCP3) IBRA Sub-region. The survey site is located within the Hundred of Naracoorte and the
Naracoorte Environmental Association (1.4.10). The Glenroy Environmental Association (1.4.11) is very
close to the western side of the project area. The Hundred of Naracoorte has approximately 5.6% native
vegetation remaining, the Naracoorte Environmental Association (1.4.10) has 18.2% remaining and the
Glenroy Environmental Association (1.4.11) has 0.2% remaining (DEH 2002). These remnancy figures
are considered to be low and reflect the large amount of vegetation clearance that has occurred in the
area predominantly for agriculture and more recently viticulture.
Results from a 10 km by 10 km database (Biological Databases of SA) search of the survey area reveal
a total of 60 flora species that have been previously recorded within close proximity to the survey area
(Appendix 3). Fifty-two of the species were native species except for eight exotic species (Appendix 3).
No flora species of national conservation significance have been previously recorded in the area,
however, one species of state significance, Thelymitra malvina (Mauve-tufted Sun-orchid), has been
previously recorded in the area. This species is listed as endangered under the National Parks and
Wildlife Act 1972 (Appendix 3).
Two vegetation associations were recorded within the survey area, an Exotic Grassland with emergent
trees and shrubs including Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Banksia marginata (Silver
Banksia), Meleleuca lanceolata (Dryland Tea-Tree) and Acacia spp (Wattles) and a small area of
Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland over exotic grasses. A total of 58 flora species were recorded within
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the project area. This included 28 native species and 30 exotic species (see attached species list). It is
considered that the number of species within this area has been under-estimated as a number of plants
located were not identifiable due to a lack of distinguishable material. It is likely that additional exotic
grasses and herbs would be identified if the survey was undertaken later in the year (once species had a
chance to flower and set seed).
The area also appears to be regularly grazed as evidenced by sheep footprints and manure. Additionally
the southern end of the western rail reserve appeared to have been scarified or ploughed at some stage.
Very few native species were present in this area and slight furrows were still visible.
The dominant species onsite were exotic species including Dactylis glomerata (Cocksfoot), Phalaris
aquatica (Phalaris) and Avena barbata (Bearded Oat). Other exotic species which were common within
the Exotic Grassland association included Romulea rosea var. australis (Common Onion-grass),
Scabiosa atropurpurea (Pincushion) and Trifolium sp. (Clover). The native species recorded within the
Exotic Grassland included Drosera peltata (Pale Sundew), Austrostipa sp. (Spear-grass) and Hypoxis
glabella var. glabella (Tiny Star). No species recorded in this association are considered to be of national
or state conservation significance; however, two species of regional significance (South East Botanic
Region) were recorded within the survey area. Calocephalus citreus (Lemon Beauty-heads) is listed as
being regionally Vulnerable while Lomandra sororia (Sword Mat-rush) is listed as being regionally
uncommon. The sample of the later species collected for identification had been grazed and was
regrowing. As the sample was poor the identification is not confident. The other species which it could
be is Lomandra nana (Small Mat-rush) which is not listed as being of significance.
The condition of the Exotic Grassland varied between poor (Condition Rating 4) and very poor condition
(Condition Rating 5) with very few native species present and a low cover of native species (refer to
attached plan for location details). High rabbit activity was observed in the area, with a number of
warrens present as well as a number of individuals sighted during the field survey.
The condition of the Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) Woodland is considered to be poor
(Condition Rating 4).
4.
FAUNA ASSESSMENT
A Fauna Assessment of the survey area was conducted utilising the Transport SA Fauna Impact
Assessment Guidelines (TSA 2002). Results from the 10 km by 10 km database search of the survey
area (Appendix 3) reveal a total of 123 fauna species that have been previously recorded within close
proximity to the survey area: Five of the 123 fauna species previously recorded in the area are exotic
species (Appendix 3). Three species previously recorded within the area are considered to be of national
conservation significance, Calyptorhynchus banksii graptogyne (South-Eastern Red-tailed BlackCockatoo) is nationally endangered and Litoria raniformis (Golden Bell Frog) and Isodon obesulus
obesulus (Southern Brown Bandicoot) which are nationally vulnerable. A further 19 species of state
conservation significance have been recorded within close proximity to the project area (Appendix 3).
The project area, which is dominated by an Exotic Grassland, is considered to offer poor quality fauna
habitat which would be utilised by a low number of species. Surface limestone was present within the
survey area with a number of limestone rocks offering refuges primarily for reptile species. The likely
diversity of bird species utilising the area is expected to be low, with a higher frequency of use in the
groups of Allocasuarina verticillata within the site.
A total of nine bird species were observed within the survey area with a total of 28 individuals recorded
(Appendix 1). Two introduced mammal species were observed within the survey area whilst no native
mammal species were recorded. Extensive rabbit activity was observed within the project area between
Trees 6 and 9 on both sides of the rail line. Other rabbit warrens were also observed outside of this area.
One reptile species was recorded on 11 occasions within the survey area. This species, Ctenotus
robustus, was recorded whilst searching for Delma impar and every individual was found refuging under
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limestone surface rock. No fauna species of conservation significance were recorded within the project
area.
Fauna species of conservation significance
The following fauna species of conservation significance are known to occur within the South East
region. A brief description of the species requirements, any past records close to the project site and
whether they are likely to occur within the project site is given.
Delma impar (Striped Legless Lizard) – Vulnerable AUS
In South Australia, the Striped Legless Lizard is restricted to south east region of the state (which is the
western limit of their distribution), however, populations also occur in Victoria, southern NSW and the
ACT. In South Australia, there are currently four known sites (all validated recently) with several sites
near Lake Ormerod (west of Naracoorte) and a site north of Naracoorte (Harley et al 2005).
The Striped Legless Lizard is a cryptic species which grows to a total length of between 240-310mm, with
tail accounting for two thirds of the length (Harley et al 2005). Generally, lizards have been found in
grasslands which contain tussock-forming grasses and cracking clay soils. Most sites lack any tree or
shrub cover with dominant grass species being Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra), Wallaby Grass
(Austrodanthonia species), Tussock Grasses (Poa species) and Spear Grasses (Austrostipa species).
The species has also been found in exotic grasslands dominated by some of the larger tussock forming
exotic grasses such as Cocksfoot Grass (Dactylis glomerata) and Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica) (Harley et
al 2005).
No Striped Legless Lizards were found within the survey area. Extensive active searching was
undertaken within the project area with all possible refuges within the project area, which could be lifted,
checked for this species. A known site for this species, near Lake Ormerod (approximately 6km west of
the project site) was visited to gain a better understanding of the possible habitat requirements for the
species. The site that was briefly inspected contained similar exotic grassland to the project site. The
known site for this species had not been grazed or mown and the tussock grasses were mature large
tussocks. The other difference between the two sites was that the project area contained surface
limestone in the form of large solid sheets as well as smaller rocks. The known site for the Striped
Legless Lizard did not appear to contain any surface limestone. The other difference is possibly the soil
type and structure; the project area did not appear to contain the deep cracking soils of the known site for
the species. It is considered likely that some of the areas within the project site would contain cracking
clay, particularly the lower lying areas, but it is unlikely to be as extensive as the project site.
Due to the known site being within 6km of the project site and the fact that the known site and project site
are similar in flora species composition, the presence of the Striped Legless Lizard within the project area
cannot be ruled out. The species is very cryptic and hard to find with large survey efforts uncovering few
individuals (Harley et al 2005).
To confirm the presence of the species further survey work should be undertaken. One survey method
which has been used for the species in the past is placing roof tiles out and coming back to check them
several months later (Milne, S. pers. comm.). If additional surveys were to be undertaken for the species,
a systematic grid of roofing tiles should be laid out across the site and occasionally checked every 4-6
weeks for the species. If this was to occur, it would need to occur soon to ensure sampling was
undertaken at the most appropriate time of year. A referral under the EPBC Act 1999 may be required as
the potential impact on the species is unclear.
Calyptorhynchus banksii graptogyne (South-Eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo) - Endangered
AUS
This sub-species of the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo is restricted to the eastern part of the south east of
South Australia and neighbouring areas of western Victoria and is listed as endangered under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Both the breeding and feeding habitat
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of the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo have been significantly reduced due to intensive logging and land
clearance in the south east in the early 1900’s for agriculture and more recently viticulture.
The Red-tailed Black Cockatoo nest in large old Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum), Eucalyptus
leucoxylon (South Australia Blue Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis (Manna Gum), Eucalyptus ovata (Swamp
Gum), Eucalyptus arenacea (Sand Stringy Bark) and Eucalyptus baxteri (Brown Stringy Bark) with hollow
entrances greater than 15cm. During a breeding season the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo is restricted to
feeding areas within a 12km radius from the nest. The Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo feed in woodlands of
Eucalyptus arenacea / Eucalyptus baxteri and Allocasuarina luehmanii (Oakbush) with an area greater
than 5 hectares. Penola forest has been predicted as being a suitable feeding ground for the Red-tailed
Black-Cockatoo (Croft, T., et al 1999), this predicted feeding ground is approximately 2km east from the
survey area and therefore the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo may be using suitable nesting habitat within
close proximity to the survey area.
It is unlikely that the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo would utilise the project area. The species may feed on
the Allocasuarina verticillata in the area, however the number of trees is quite low and therefore food
resources are considered to be low. It is considered that the clearance of vegetation within the survey
area would not significantly impact on the species in the region.
Calyptorhynchus funereus (Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo) - Vulnerable SA
The Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo is listed as vulnerable under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.
The South East population inhabits stringybark and planted pine forests and is continuous with the
population in Victoria. The decline and fragmentation of breeding and feeding habitat in the South East is
the major threat to the Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo population.
It is unlikely that the Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo would utilise the project area. The species may feed
on the Allocasuarina verticillata in the area, however the number of trees is quite low and therefore food
resources are considered to be low. It is considered that the clearance of vegetation within the survey
area would not significantly impact on the species in the region.
Litoria raniformis (Golden Bell Frog) - Vulnerable AUS
The Golden Bell Frog is listed as nationally vulnerable under the Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Only three recorded groups within South Australia occur for the
species, one recorded group occurs within the far south east which adjoins with Victorian populations.
The Golden Bell Frog occurs mostly in emergent vegetation, edges of still water bodies such as lagoons,
swamps, lakes, ponds and farm dams. Additionally the species has been recorded occurring in open
grassland, open forest, ephemeral and permanent non-saline marshes and swamps, ditches and drains,
well watered soils and gently graded edges containing fringing plants (Department of the Environment
and Water Resources 2007).
Factors influencing the decline of the Green and Golden Bell Frog include:





Inappropriate catchment management, including degraded water quality
Exotic predators (e.g. trout, Gambusia)
Herbicides, insecticides, eutrophication due to excessive nutrients
Disease/pathogens (e.g. chytrid fungus, viruses)
Habitat modification (e.g. vegetation clearing, invasive weeds)
The survey area contained several low lying areas where water would accumulate when conditions were
right. The species has been previously recorded in the region previously; however the records are further
to the west near Lake Ormerod. It is possible that the species occurs within the project area, however, it
is considered highly unlikely that the removal of vegetation within the survey area would have a
significant impact on the species.
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Pseudophryne bibronii (Brown Toadlet) - Rare SA
The Brown Toadlet has a rare rating within South Australia. This frog lives in forests, heathlands and
grasslands. Individuals are often found under rocks and logs.
Factors influencing the decline of the species are:



Inappropriate catchment management, including degraded water quality;
Herbicides, insecticides, eutrophication due to excessive nutrients;
Habitat modification (e.g.) vegetation clearing, invasive weeds.
It is considered possible that this species occurs within the survey area and it has been recorded within
close proximity to the project area previously. However, it is considered that, if present, the removal of
vegetation within the survey area is unlikely to have a significant impact on the species.
5.
NATIVE VEGETATION
Data, complying with the Native Vegetation Act, 1991 was collected for the Exotic Grassland with
emergent Allocasuarina verticillata vegetation association and for a total of 82 individual trees or trees in
small groups. The Exotic Grassland area is dominated by exotic species and the vegetation community
is not a native one. However, native flora species were recorded in the area and therefore, these are
covered by the Native Vegetation Act 1991.
4.1
Assessment of the plant associations as surveyed (including some individual trees and
shrubs. Further details as per attached data sheets), using the relevant Principles of
Clearance under the Native Vegetation Act, 1991
Native vegetation should not be cleared if in the opinion of the Native Vegetation Council –
a)
It comprises a high level of diversity of plants;
A total of 28 indigenous plant species were recorded within the surevy area. The Exotic Grassland
had 26 species wihile the Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland has 7 species (refer to the attached
species list for details). This is considered to represent low species diversity in the region.
Therefore the vegetation clearance is not considered to be seriously at variance with Principle (a).
b)
It has significance as a habitat for wildlife;
The survey site supports areas of Exotic Grassland and a small area of Allocasuarina verticillata
Woodland. The size, density, floristic combination and proximity to other vegetation links/corridors
are considered sufficient to provide a suitable habitat for the following fauna species:
Fauna Type
Name
Conservation
status*
AUS
Reptile
Delma impar
(Striped Legless
Lizard)
VU
SA
E
Plant
Association
Observed?
Yes/No
Comments
SE
E
Exotic
Grassland
No
Possibly utilise the area,
has been found in similar
habitat approx. 6km west of
the project site.
*AUS = Australia; SA = South Australia; SE = South East;
U = Uncommon; R = Rare; V = Vulnerable; E = Endangered;
VU = Vulnerable; EN = Endangered
Note if species is/are listed on the Commonwealth Environmental Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC)
then that Act will apply
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Therefore, although dominated by introduced species, the Exotic Grassland potentially offers
habitat to a nationally vulnerable species, Delma impar and several state significant frog species.
As the association is dominated by introduced species and is highly degraded, it is considered that
the clearance of the native vegetation within the area is not at variance with Principle (b).
Using the Points Scoring System developed by the Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity
Conservation (DWLBC), 82 trees were also assessed individually or within small groups. A total of
38 of these individual trees or trees in small groups, scored above the cut-off point and have
significant habitat value for wildlife (refer to the attached data sheets for further details). Note this
included all trees/small groups of trees within the total area surveyed and as the rail loop will be
located only of the western side of the existing rail line only 13 individual or small groups of trees
and 650m2 of Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland will be significantly impacted.
The clearance of 13 individual trees or trees in small group’s and 650m2 of Allocasuarina verticillata
Woodland (see attached data sheets and plans) is therefore considered to be seriously at
variance with Principle (b).
c)
It includes plants of a rare, vulnerable or endangered species;
Two species of regional conservation significance, the uncommon Lomandra sororia (Sword Matrush) and the Vulnerable Calocephalus citreus (Lemon Beauty-heads), was recorded within the
project area.
It should be noted that the sample of Lomandra sororia collected for identification had been grazed
and was regrowing. As the sample was poor the identification is not confident. The other species
which it could be is Lomandra nana (Small Mat-rush) which is not listed as being of significance.
However, no species that are listed as being rare, vulnerable or endangered at a national or state
level were recorded within the project site.
The clearance/disturbance of vegetation within the project site is therefore not considered to be
seriously at variance with Principle (c).
d)
The vegetation comprises the whole, or a part, of a plant community that is rare, vulnerable
or endangered;
Neither the Exotic Grassland community nor the small area of Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland is
listed as a rare, vulnerable or endangered plant community in the “Provisonal list of Threatened
Ecosystems of South Australia” (DEH, unpublished).
Therefore the vegetation clearance within the Exotic Grassland and the Allocasuarina verticillata
Woodland is not considered to be seriously at variance with Principle (d).
e)
It is significant as a remnant of vegetation in an area which has been extensively cleared;
While the surrounding area has been extensively cleared and vegetation remnancy in the hundred
and environmental association is low to moderate, the area of Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland
within the project site is small and in a degraded state and is therefore not considered to be a
significant remnant.
As the Exotic Grassland community is dominated by exotic species and does not support any state
or nationally listed species of conservation significance it is not considered a significant remnant in
the area.
Therefore the clearance of the Exotic Grassland and Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland is not
considered to be seriously at variance with Principle (e).
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f)
VE 102
It is growing in, or in association with, a wetland environment;
The project area is not considered to be a wetland environment or adjacent to a wetland
environment.
Clearance of vegetation within the survey area is therefore not considered to be seriously at
variance with Principle (e).
g)
It contributes significantly to the amenity of the area in which it is growing or is situated;
The Exotic Grassland community is dominated by exotic grasses of generally low stature that
provide minimal amenity for users of the area. While the small area of Woodland and the scattered
trees in the survey area provide some visual variety the small amount of clearance associated with
the project on the western side of the track will have little impact on the area’s amenity.
Therefore the vegetation clearance within the Exotic Grassland and Allocasuarina verticillata
Woodland is not considered to be seriously at variance with Principle (g).
h)
Other variance issues which are likely to be highlighted by the NRM Board and/or local
council
It is considered unlikely that additional variance issues will be highlighted by the NRM Board or the
local council.
6.
OTHER INFORMATION
6.1 Declared1 and/or Environmental Weeds2
The dominant declared and/or environmental weeds (see attached species list for complete list)
noted within the survey site are as follows
Species
1
2
Common Name
Comments
**
*Arctotheca calendula
Cape Weed
Scattered within northern 100m of the site, on
and adjacent to rail line
**
*Asphodelus fistulosus
Onion Weed
Scattered plants on or next to rail line within
100m of Doolans Road
**
*Avena barbata
Bearded Oat
Dominant species across the vegetation
community
**
*Cirsium vulgare
Spear Thistle
Isolated plants scattered throughout survey
area
**
*Dactylis glomerata
Cocksfoot
Dominant species across the vegetation
community
**
*Dittrichia graveolens
Stinkweed
Several plants recorded adjacent to rail line,
northern end
**
*Ehrharta calycina
Perennial Veldt Grass
Scattered within the Exotic Grassland
association
**
*Lactuca serriola
**
*Malva parviflora
Prickly Lettuce
Small-flower
Marshmallow
Isolated plants scattered throughout survey
area
Isolated plants scattered throughout survey
area
Natural Resources Management Act 2004
TSD Environmental Weeds List
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Species
Common Name
VE 102
Comments
Dominant species across the vegetation
community
*Phalaris aquatica
*Plantago lanceolata var.
lanceolata
*Romulea rosea var. australis
*Salvia verbenaca var.
verbenaca
Phalaris
+
*Scabiosa atropurpurea
*Asparagus asparagoides
Pincushion
Bridal Creeper
+
*Echium plantagineum
Salvation Jane
Isolated plants occasionally occurring within
survey area
+
*Lycium ferocissimum
African Boxthorn
Two plants one at 476638; 5906953 and
476611; 5907091
+
*Marrubium vulgare
Horehound
Scattered patches throughout survey area,
often associated with rabbit warrens
+
*Moraea flaccida
One-leaf Cape Tulip
One patch, approx 5m x 5m located at 476831;
5905474
+
*Silybum marianum
Variegated Thistle
One plant near patch of Gahnia filum (refer to
attached plans)
**
**
**
**
**
+
**
Ribwort
Common Onion-grass
Wild Sage
Isolated plants scattered throughout survey
area
Abundant across majority of project area
Scattered within the Exotic Grassland
association
Scattered within the Exotic Grassland
association
One small patch identified at 476645; 5906933
Plants which are declared species under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004
Plants which are considered environmental weeds (TSD Environmental Weeds List)
A reduction, using various control techniques, of these species within the remaining vegetation will
provide a substantial benefit to both the under and middle storey stratums. An eradication program
may be considered as part mitigation under the Native Vegetation Act 1991.
6.2
Branched Broomrape
This project site is not located within the designated Branched Broomrape (Orobanche ramosa)
quarantine area.
6.3
Phytophthora
This site is located in a Moderate Phytophthora risk area. While the site contained an indicator
species Banksia marginata no indications of its presence were noted at the time of the survey. If
works are carried out in the drier months the implementation of general hygiene practices during
construction should be sufficient to minimise the risk of the pathogen entering the site or spreading
within and offsite site. If works is to be carried out in the wetter months, controls according to TSD
Operational Instruction 21.3 [Phytophthora (Dieback) Control] may be required.
6.4
Possible Stockpiling Sites
Areas considered suitable for stockpiling material or storage sites were noted as part of the survey.
The most appropriate location for stockpile sites close to the project are either within the Doolans
Road road reserve at the start of the project area or within the project site on the western side of the
rail line at the southern end where the area has been previously disturbed (scarified or ploughed).
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6.5
VE 102
Possible Seed/Vegetative Material (for propagation) Collection Sites
Little native vegetation occurs within close proximity to the project area. It is unclear what the
dominant vegetation type within the project area would have been due to the extensive vegetation
clearance within the site as well as across the surrounding areas, including roadsides. The
Naracoorte Caves Conservation Park is the closest reserve to the project area and could possible
be utilised as a seed source.
7.
IMPACT OF RAILWORKS
Direct Impacts
The direct impacts of the project may include:
Native vegetation
 Minor clearance pruning of a 8 x Melaleuca lanceolata (photo 24)
 Removal of 1 x Acacia mearnsii (Photo 32)
 Removal of 2 x Acacia pycnantha (Photo 36)
 Removal of 9 x Allocasuarina verticillata (Photo 35)
 Removal of 1 x Allocasuarina verticillata (Photo 37)
 Removal of 650m2 of Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland (Photos 38 and 39)
 Possible impact on Delma impar.
Indirect Impacts
The indirect impacts of the project may include:
 Possible damage to adjacent trees due to root disturbance as a result of earth works;
 Reduction in quality of habitat for native fauna species;
 Introduction and/or spread of declared and environmental weed species;
 Introduction of plant pathogens into the survey area (Phytophthora).
8.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Approvals
The quantity of vegetation removal required to accommodate the proposed rail siding is expected to
be no more than 650m2 (0.065ha) and up to 13 trees. This is categorised as a Level 1 Impact
however the removals are also at serious variance with clearance Principle (b) which elevates the
Impact Category to Level 2. Therefore joint approval for clearance and significant environmental
benefit is required from the Director Projects and the Native Vegetation Secretariat (as per the
Standard Operating Procedure endorsed by the Native Vegetation Act).
Set-aside
The set-aside has been calculated using the ‘area’ and scattered tree’ methods (as per the Native
Vegetation Guidelines).
The vegetation impacted is comprised of;
Area
650m2 of Allocasuarina verticillata Woodland (Photos 38 and 39) with ‘mostly intact overstorey
with considerable weed infestation amongst the understorey flora’ requiring an off-set of 4:1.
Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) required to off-set clearance = 0.260ha
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Scattered trees
Minor clearance pruning of a 8 x Melaleuca lanceolata (photo 24) = 0.00ha
Removal of 1 x Acacia mearnsii (Photo 32) = 0.096ha
Removal of 2 x Acacia pycnantha (Photo 36) = 0.453ha
Removal of 9 x Allocasuarina verticillata (Photo 35) = 0.258ha
Removal of 1 x Allocasuarina verticillata (Photo 37) = 0.500ha
Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) required to off-set clearance = 1.307ha
The total Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) required to off-set clearance for the rail siding
project = 1.567ha
The following recommendations have been made to reduce the possible impacts of any works to be
undertaken on the native flora and fauna within the area. The recommendations are:
 Undertake further investigations into the possible presence of Delma impar, possibly proceed
with the project assuming that it is present and therefore submit an EPBC referral and develop
specific management strategies to manage potential impacts on the species. Further surveys
would be required to confirm the presence of the species in the area;
 If possible, utilise the western side of the rail corridor as there are less trees in the area and the
vegetation is in poorer overall condition;
 Avoid the patch of Gahnia filum (refer to attached plans for location); if unavoidable lift and
relocate the few clumps affected to the nearest appropriate locations within the rail reserve;
 Keep the impact and removal on all remnant trees to a minimum throughout the project area;
 Keep construction footprint to an absolute minimum and exhaust all design avenues to ensure
the smallest possible impact on vegetation;
 Every effort should be made to minimise the overall disturbance to vegetation outside the extent
of works;
 Prepare and implement a suitable off set to compensate for the removal of any native
vegetation;
 Implement appropriate hygiene methods to minimise the risks of spreading weeds and plant
pathogens;
 A suitable landscape remediation/concept plan should be implemented to offset the loss of any
vegetation from proposed works.
Specialist Services staff are available for further assistance and advice if required.
Dr Travis How
Checked by
EBS
Heinz Froehlingsdorf
01/10/2008
9 / 10 / 2008
Coordinator Vegetation Services
CONTRACTS & STANDARDS SECTION
9 / 10 / 2008
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9.
VE 102
REFERENCES
Croft, T., Carruthers, S., Possingham, H. and Inns, B. (1999). Biodiversity Plan for the South East of
South Australia. Department for Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs.
DEH Threatened Fauna of the South East – Striped Legless Lizard Delma impar. Fact Sheet
produced by the South Australian Department for Environment and Heritage.
DEH (in progress) Provisional List of Threatened Ecosystems of South Australia, unpublished and
provisional list.
DEH (2002). Remnancy Figures for Hundreds and Environmental Associations in South Australia.
Unpublished.
Department of the Environment and Water Resources (2007). Litoria raniformis in Species Profile
and Threats Database, Department of the Environment and Water Resources, Canberra. [URL:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1828.
Frogs Australia Network (2005) Geocrinia laevis (Smooth Frog) in Australia Frog Database, URL:
http://www.frogsaustralia.net.au/frogs/display.cfm?frog_id=20
Hanold, D., Stukely, M., Randles J.W. (2002) Mundulla Yellows- a new tree-dieback threat.
Landscape.
Harley, D., Bachmann, M., Green, R., and Stratman, B. (2005) Regional Action Plans for the
Recovery of Threatened Fauna in the South East of South Australia. South Australian Department
for Environment and Heritage, Mount Gambier.
Neagle, N. (1995) An update of the conservation status of the major plant associations of South
Australia. Native Vegetation Conservation Section, Department of Environment and Natural
Resources South Australia.
Slater, P., Slater, P., Slater, R. (1989), The Slater Field Guide to Australian Birds. Weldon
Publishing, Australia.
TSA (2002) Fauna Impact Assessment Guidelines, Transport SA, Government of South Australia
Stokes, A., Heard, L.M.B., Carruthers, S., & Reynolds, T. (1998) Guide to the Roadside Vegetation
Survey Methodology for South Australia (Draft). Geographic Analysis and Research Unit, Planning
SA and Environment Unit, Transport SA, Department for Transport Urban Planning and the Arts.
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10.
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1. Fauna observations recorded during the survey within or in close proximity to the survey
area at the Naracoorte Siding project site, September 2008.
Class
Species Name
Common Name
Conservation Status
AUS
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Aves
Mammalia
Mammalia
Reptilia
Acanthiza chrysorrhoa
Anthochaera carunculata
Cacatua roseicapilla
Cacatua tenuirostris
Corvus coronoides
Gymnorhina tibicen
Lichenostomus penicillatus
Rhipidura leucophrys
Tadorna tadornoides
*Oryctolagus cuninculus
*Lepus capensis
Ctenotis robusta
SA
Yellow-rumped Thornbill
Red Wattlebird
Galah
Long-billed Corella
Australian Raven
Australian Magpie
White-plumed Honeyeater
Willie Wagtail
Australian Shelduck
Rabbit
Hare
Eastern Striped Ctenotus
Sightings
SE
2
4
8
4
1
4
2
1
2
9
1
11
*Denotes exotic species
Key
Regions: AUS = Australia, SA = South Australia, SE = South East
Conservation ratings:
E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare,
Appendix 2. Vegetation Condition Rating Table (Stokes et al.1998)
Condition
Rating
Overview
Condition
Description
1
Excellent
Very little or no sign of alien vegetation in the understorey*; resembles probable
pre-European condition.
2
Good
High proportion of native species and native cover in the understorey*;
reasonable representation of probable pre-European vegetation.
3
Moderate
Substantial invasion of aliens but native understorey* persists; for example, may
be a low proportion of native species and a high native cover, or a high
proportion of native species and low native cover.
4
Poor
The understorey* consists predominately of alien species, although a small
number of natives persist.
5
Very Poor
The understorey* consists only of alien species.
*Or all strata if the upper and lower strata are difficult to distinguish
(Adapted from ‘Guide to Roadside Vegetation Survey Methodology for South Australia’, Stokes et al 1998).
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Appendix 3. Database search results for flora species previously recorded within close proximity to the Naracoorte
Siding survey area (Source: Biogical Databases of South Australia)
Species Name
Common Name
Conservation
Status
AUS
Acacia pycnantha
Acaena echinata var. (NC)
Acrotriche affinis
Astroloma conostephioides
Astroloma humifusum
Austrodanthonia geniculata
Austrostipa mollis group
Banksia marginata
Burchardia umbellata
Caladenia sp.
Calytrix tetragona
Cassytha pubescens
Chamaescilla corymbosa var. corymbosa
Cyperus difformis
Cyrtostylis reniformis
Daucus glochidiatus
Dianella revoluta var. revoluta
Dichelachne crinita
Dodonaea viscosa ssp.
Drosera macrantha ssp. planchonii
Drosera whittakeri (NC)
Epacris impressa
Eucalyptus arenacea/baxteri
Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp.
Glossodia major
Goodia medicaginea
Hibbertia sericea var. sericea (NC)
Hydrocotyle laxiflora
Isopogon ceratophyllus
Kunzea pomifera
Laxmannia orientalis
Lepidosperma carphoides
Leporella fimbriata
Leptospermum myrsinoides
Leucopogon ericoides
Lichen sp.
Lomandra nana
Microseris lanceolata
Millotia tenuifolia var.
Moss sp.
Oxalis perennans (NC)
Pelargonium rodneyanum
Pimelea humilis
Pteridium esculentum
Schoenoplectus validus
Schoenus apogon
Senecio tenuiflorus (NC)
Thelymitra malvina
Thomasia petalocalyx
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SA
Golden Wattle
Sheep's Burr
Ridged Ground-berry
Flame Heath
Cranberry Heath
Kneed Wallaby-grass
Soft Spear-grass
Silver Banksia
Milkmaids
Spider-orchid
Common Fringe-myrtle
Downy Dodder-laurel
Blue Squill
Variable Flat-sedge
Small Gnat-orchid
Native Carrot
Black-anther Flax-lily
Long-hair Plume-grass
Sticky Hop-bush
Climbing Sundew
Scented Sundew
Common Heath
Brown Stringybark
South Australian Blue Gum
Purple Cockatoo
Western Golden-tip
Silky Guinea-flower
Stinking Pennywort
Horny Cone-bush
Muntries
Dwarf Wire-lily
Black Rapier-sedge
Fringed Hare-orchid
Heath Tea-tree
Pink Beard-heath
Small Mat-rush
Yam Daisy
Soft Millotia
Native Sorrel
Magenta Pelargonium
Low Riceflower
Bracken Fern
River Club-rush
Common Bog-rush
Woodland Groundsel
Mauve-tufted Sun-orchid
Paper-flower
E
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Species Name
Common Name
VE 102
Conservation
Status
AUS
Thysanotus patersonii
Typha domingensis
Wahlenbergia sp.
*Ambrosia psilostachya
*Hypochaeris glabra
*Hypochaeris radicata
*Lagurus ovatus
*Myrtus communis
*Polypogon monspeliensis
*Sisymbrium orientale
*Trifolium glomeratum
SA
Twining Fringe-lily
Narrow-leaf Bulrush
Native Bluebell
Perennial Ragweed
Smooth Cat's Ear
Rough Cat's Ear
Hare's Tail Grass
Common Myrtle
Annual Beard-grass
Indian Hedge Mustard
Cluster Clover
*Denotes exotic species
Conservation ratings:
AUS = EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable
SA = V = Vulnerable, R = Rare, K = Unknown
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Appendix 4. Database search results for fauna species previously recorded within close proximity to Naracoorte
Siding survey area (source: Biological Databases of South Australia)
Class
Species Name
Common Name
Conservation
Status
AUS
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AMPHIBIA
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
Crinia signifera
Limnodynastes dumerilii
Limnodynastes peronii
Limnodynastes tasmaniensis
Litoria ewingii
Litoria raniformis
Neobatrachus pictus
Neobatrachus sudelli
Pseudophryne bibronii
Acanthiza chrysorrhoa
Acanthiza lineata
Acanthiza pusilla
Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris
Acrocephalus australis
Anas gracilis
Anas rhynchotis
Anas superciliosa
Anthochaera carunculata
Anthochaera chrysoptera
Artamus cyanopterus
Aythya australis
Biziura lobata
Cacatua roseicapilla
Calidris acuminata
Calyptorhynchus banksii
Calyptorhynchus funereus
*Carduelis carduelis
Charadrius bicinctus
Chlidonias hybridus
Chrysococcyx basalis
Cincloramphus cruralis
Cincloramphus mathewsi
Circus assimilis
Cladorhynchus leucocephalus
Colluricincla harmonica
Coracina papuensis
Cormobates leucophaeus
Corvus mellori
Corvus sp.
Corvus tasmanicus
Cygnus atratus
Dacelo novaeguineae
Dicaeum hirundinaceum
Elanus axillaris
Eopsaltria australis
Erythrogonys cinctus
Fulica atra
Gallinago hardwickii
Gallinula ventralis
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Common Froglet
Banjo Frog
Striped Marsh Frog
Spotted Marsh Frog
Brown Tree Frog
Southern Bell Frog
Burrowing frog
Sudell's Frog
Brown Toadlet
Yellow-rumped Thornbill
Striated Thornbill
Brown Thornbill
Eastern Spinebill
Australian Reed Warbler
Grey Teal
Australasian Shoveler
Pacific Black Duck
Red Wattlebird
Little Wattlebird
Dusky Woodswallow
Hardhead (White-eyed Duck)
Musk Duck
Galah
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo
Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo
European Goldfinch
Double-banded Plover
Whiskered Tern
Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo
Brown Songlark
Rufous Songlark
Spotted Harrier
Banded Stilt
Grey Shrike-thrush
White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike
White-throated Treecreeper
Little Raven
Forest Raven
Black Swan
Laughing Kookaburra
Mistletoebird
Black-shouldered Kite
Eastern Yellow Robin
Red-kneed Dotterel
Eurasian Coot
Latham's Snipe
Black-tailed Native-hen
VU
SA
V
R
R
R
EN
E
V
V
R
R
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Class
Species Name
Common Name
VE 102
Conservation
Status
AUS
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
AVES
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
Glossopsitta concinna
Grallina cyanoleuca
Gymnorhina tibicen
Himantopus himantopus
Hirundo neoxena
Larus novaehollandiae
Lichenostomus chrysops
Lichenostomus leucotis
Lichenostomus melanops
Malacorhynchus membranaceus
Malurus cyaneus
Melithreptus brevirostris
Melithreptus lunatus
Myiagra cyanoleuca
Neochmia temporalis
Neochmia temporalis
Neophema chrysostoma
Oxyura australis
Pachycephala pectoralis
Pachycephala rufiventris
Pardalotus striatus
*Passer domesticus
Petrochelidon nigricans
Petroica phoenicea
Phaps chalcoptera
Phylidonyris novaehollandiae
Platycercus elegans
Poliocephalus poliocephalus
Recurvirostra novaehollandiae
Rhipidura albiscapa
Rhipidura leucophrys
Sericornis frontalis
Smicrornis brevirostris
Strepera versicolor
*Sturnus vulgaris
Tadorna tadornoides
Trichoglossus haematodus
*Turdus merula
Turnix pyrrhothorax
Vanellus miles
Vanellus tricolor
Zosterops lateralis
Acrobates pygmaeus
Antechinus flavipes
Cercartetus nanus
Chalinolobus gouldii
Isoodon obesulus
Macropus fuliginosus
Miniopterus schreibersii bassanii
Petaurus breviceps
Pseudomys apodemoides
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Musk Lorikeet
Magpie-lark
Australian Magpie
Black-winged Stilt
Welcome Swallow
Silver Gull
Yellow-faced Honeyeater
White-eared Honeyeater
Yellow-tufted Honeyeater
Pink-eared Duck
Superb Fairy-wren
Brown-headed Honeyeater
White-naped Honeyeater
Satin Flycatcher
Red-browed Finch
Red-browed Finch
Blue-winged Parrot
Blue-billed Duck
Golden Whistler
Rufous Whistler
Striated Pardalote
House Sparrow
Tree Martin
Flame Robin
Common Bronzewing
New Holland Honeyeater
Crimson Rosella
Hoary-headed Grebe
Red-necked Avocet
Grey Fantail
Willie Wagtail
White-browed Scrubwren
Weebill
Grey Currawong
Common Starling
Australian Shelduck
Rainbow Lorikeet
Eurasian Blackbird
Red-chested Button-quail
Masked Lapwing
Banded Lapwing
Silvereye
Feathertail Glider
Yellow-footed Antechinus
Eastern Pygmy-possum
Gould's Wattled Bat
Southern Brown Bandicoot
Western Grey Kangaroo
Large Bentwing-Bat
Sugar Glider
Silky Mouse
SA
E
V
R
V
R
E
V
V
VU
V
R
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Class
Species Name
Common Name
VE 102
Conservation
Status
AUS
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
MAMMALIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
REPTILIA
Rattus fuscipes
Rattus lutreolus
*Rattus rattus
Sminthopsis crassicaudata
Trichosurus vulpecula
Amphibolurus muricatus
Amphibolurus norrisi
Aprasia striolata
Bassiana duperreyi
Christinus marmoratus
Ctenotus robustus
Drysdalia mastersii
Hemiergis decresiensis
Lampropholis delicata
Lampropholis guichenoti
Morethia obscura
Notechis scutatus
Pogona barbata
Pseudonaja textilis
Pygopus lepidopodus
Tiliqua rugosa
Tympanocryptis lineata
Bush Rat
Swamp Rat
Black Rat
Fat-tailed Dunnart
Common Brushtail Possum
Jacky Lizard
Mallee Tree-Dragon
Lined Worm-lizard
Eastern Three-lined Skink
Marbled Gecko
Eastern Striped Ctenotus
Master's Snake
Three-toed Earless Skink
Delicate Skink
Garden Skink
Mallee Snake-eye
Eastern Tiger Snake
Eastern Bearded Dragon
Eastern Brown Snake
Common Scaly-foot
Sleepy Lizard
Five-lined Earless Dragon
SA
R
R
R
*denotes introduced species
Conservation ratings:
AUS = EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable
SA = E Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R = Rare
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