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26.04.2016 ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA
EAC1 APRIL 2016
AGENDA
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
26 APRIL 2016
The purpose of this Committee Meeting is to discuss and make recommendations to Council about items appearing on the agenda and other matters for which the Committee is responsible. The Committee has no power to make any decisions which are binding on the Council or the Shire of Mundaring unless specific delegation of authority has been granted by Council. No person should rely on or act on the basis of any advice or information provided by a Member or employee, or on the content of any discussion occurring, during the course of the Committee Meeting. The Shire of Mundaring expressly disclaims liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of relying on or acting on the basis of any advice or information provided by a Member or employee, or the content of any discussion occurring during the course of the Committee Meeting.
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EAC2 APRIL 2016
CONTENTS
1.0 OPENING PROCEDURES 3
1.1 ANNOUNCEMENTS OF VISITORS ........................................................................... 3 1.2 RECORD OF ATTENDANCE/APOLOGIES/APPROVED LEAVE OF ABSENCE .................. 3
2.0 ANNOUNCEMENTS BY PRESIDING MEMBER WITHOUT DISCUSSION 3
3.0 DECLARATION OF INTEREST 3
3.1 DECLARATION OF FINANCIAL INTEREST AND PROXIMITY INTERESTS ....................... 3 3.2 DECLARATION OF INTEREST AFFECTING IMPARTIALITY .......................................... 3
4.0 RESPONSE TO PREVIOUS PUBLIC QUESTIONS TAKEN ON NOTICE 3
5.0 PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 3
6.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS 4
7.0 PRESENTATIONS ........................................................................................... 4 7.1 DEPUTATIONS .................................................................................................... 4 7.2 PETITIONS .......................................................................................................... 4 7.3 PRESENTATIONS ................................................................................................. 5 8.0 REPORTS OF EMPLOYEES ........................................................................... 6 8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS PRIORITISATION IN THE CORPORATE BUSINESS
PLAN ................................................................................................................. 6 8.2 NOTICE OF MOTION – COMPULSORY WEED CONTROL ON VERGES NEAR
RESERVES ....................................................................................................... 10 8.3 NOTICE OF MOTION – PROHIBITING THE SALE OF FLINDERS RANGE WATTLE IN
THE SHIRE OF MUNDARING ................................................................................ 13 8.4 GLYPHOSATE USE IN THE SHIRE OF MUNDARING ................................................. 16
9.0 ELECTED MEMBERS MOTIONS OF WHICH PREVIOUS NOTICE HAS BEEN GIVEN 20
10.0 URGENT BUSINESS (LATE REPORTS) 20
11.0 CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS 20
12.0 CLOSING PROCEDURES ............................................................................. 20 12.1 DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF THE NEXT MEETING .................................................. 20 12.0 CLOSURE OF THE MEETING ............................................................................... 20
13.0 ATTACHMENTS 20
26.04.2016 ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA
EAC3 APRIL 2016
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING 6.00PM
OPENING PROCEDURES 1.0
1.1 Announcements of Visitors 1.2 Record of Attendance/Apologies/Approved Leave of Absence
Members Staff Ruth Broz Minute Secretary Apologies Guests Members of the Public
2.0 ANNOUNCEMENTS BY PRESIDING MEMBER WITHOUT
DISCUSSION 3.0 DECLARATION OF INTEREST 3.1 Declaration of Financial Interest and Proximity Interests
Members must declare the nature of their interest in matters to be discussed at the meeting (Part 5 Division 6 of the Local Government Act 1995). Employees must declare the nature of their interest in reports or advice when giving the report or advice to the meeting (Sections 5.70 and 5.71 of the Local Government Act 1995).
3.2 Declaration of Interest Affecting Impartiality Members and staff must declare their interest in matters to be discussed at the meeting in respect of which the member or employee has given or will give advice (Shire of Mundaring Code of Conduct, Local Government (Admin) Reg. 34C).
4.0 RESPONSE TO PREVIOUS PUBLIC QUESTIONS TAKEN ON
NOTICE
Nil 5.0 PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
15 minutes (with a possible extension of two extra 15 minute periods) are set aside at the beginning of each Committee meeting to allow members of the public to ask questions of the Committee.
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EAC4 APRIL 2016
Public Question Time is to be conducted in accordance with Shire of Mundaring Meeting Procedures Local Law 2015.
6.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
RECOMMENDATION
That the minutes of the meeting of the Environmental Advisory Committee held Wednesday 17 February 2016 be confirmed.
7.0 PRESENTATIONS 7.1 Deputations
(1) Members of the public may, during the deputations segment of the order of business and with the consent of the Presiding Member, make a public statement on any matter that appears on the agenda for that meeting provided that –
a) the deputation is limited to a maximum of three minutes, unless otherwise determined by the Presiding member;
b) the deputation is not offensive or defamatory in nature, providing that the Presiding Member has taken all reasonable steps to assist the member of the public to phrase the statement in a manner that is not offensive or defamatory; and
c) no discussion or questions relating to the deputation are permitted, unless otherwise determined by the Presiding Member.
(2) Fifteen minutes is to be allocated for deputations. (3) Once all statements have been made, nothing prevents the unused part of
the deputation time period from being used for other matters. (4) If the 15 minute period set aside for deputations is reached, Council may
resolve by resolution that statement time be extended for no more than two 15 minute extensions.
7.2 Petitions
(1) A petition is to – a) be addressed to the President; b) be made by electors of the district; c) state the request on each page of the petition; d) contain the legible names, addresses and signatures of the electors
making the request; e) contain a summary of the reasons for the request; f) state the name of the person to whom, and an address at which, notice
to the petitioners can be given; and g) not contain offensive or insulting language.
(2) On the presentation of a petition – a) the member presenting it or the CEO is confined to reading the
petition; and b) the only motion that is in order is that the petition be received and that
it be referred to the CEO for action.
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EAC5 APRIL 2016
(3) At any meeting, the Council is not to vote on any matter that is the subject of a petition presented to that meeting, unless –
a) The matter is the subject of a report included in the agenda; and b) The Council has considered the issues raised in the petition.
7.3 Presentations
Stan Kocian, Manager Finance & Governance will provide an overview of meeting procedures.
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EAC6 APRIL 2016
8.0 REPORTS OF EMPLOYEES 8.1 Environmental Projects Prioritisation in the Corporate Business Plan
File Code EV.PRG Author Toni Burbidge, Co-ordinator Environment and
Sustainability Senior Employee Mark Luzi, Director Statutory Services Disclosure of Any Interest
Nil
SUMMARY EAC members are requested to advise Council of their prioritisation of environmental projects as listed in the Shire’s Corporate Business Plan (CBP). This will ensure the EAC’s priorities in relation to strategic environment issues are detailed via projects within the Corporate Business Planning Process. BACKGROUND The Shire’s recent Corporate Business Plan review identified that not all projects listed in the plan may be able to be undertaken due to resource constraints or competing projects from other directorates. The corporate business plan previously identified the following projects:
2016/2017 2017/2018 2018/2019 State of the Environment Report – scope and consultation
State of the Environment Report – Final
Carbon Reduction Strategy
Sustainable and Environment Education Program
Dams Policy Dieback policy
Reserves Assessment Strategy – Local natural Reserves Management Program
Road Reserve weed management program
Fauna Awareness Strategy
Roadside Conservation Strategy – adopt and implement
Weed Strategy Review
Wildlife Corridor Strategy
Shire staff have provided information on the 2016/2017 projects to the Executive Leadership Team. The following are results from the CBP review.
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EAC7 APRIL 2016
• The Sustainable and Environment Education (SEE) Program will be undertaken for this year only, then subject to Council consideration and decision the Shire will withdraw from the Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council’s (EMRC) SEE program
• It is proposed that Environmental Services receive $25,000 a year to undertake strategic environmental projects pending the Shire’s budget approval process.
The allocation of a $25,000 a year budget for strategic environmental projects means that not all environmental projects proposed in the Corporate Business Plan can be undertaken during the years specified. Therefore EAC members are requested to identify the priority projects for the Shire to progress. Often due to staffing resources, projects of this nature would be outsourced to external contractors to complete. STATUTORY / LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Nil POLICY IMPLICATIONS Nil FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The draft Corporate Business Plan has allocated $25,000 per year to complete environmental projects prioritised in the Corporate Business Planning Process which has yet to be adopted by Council. STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS The Corporate Business plan identifies Valued Natural Environment as a strategic theme. This includes parks, reserves and open spaces, environmental management and links to elements of the community vision of retained natural environment and sustainable living. SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS Careful planning, implementation and review of environmental strategies will provide positive sustainability outcomes for the Shire, both in environmental and financial benefits. RISK IMPLICATIONS The reduction in projects per year will delay the Shire’s ability to address environmental issues and concerns within the Community. EXTERNAL CONSULTATION Nil
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EAC8 APRIL 2016
COMMENT The EAC are requested to advise Council of its priority for environmental projects to be undertaken within the Corporate Business Plan. The following information may assist the EAC with their prioritisation. The State of the Environment report has not been commenced, nor a quotation sought from consultants. The Sustainable and Environment Education Program requires enacting the EMRC’s withdrawal procedure under their Establishment Agreement and as such this program is required to be continued until Council determines to withdraw from the program, therefore this program will continue in 2016/2017. The Reserves Assessment Strategy – Local Natural Reserves Management Program commenced in March 2008. In February 2012 the Committee discussed the contents of the draft Reserves Assessment Strategy and decided as follows (decision DEAC3.02.12):
Subject to the amendments as discussed in the preamble:- 1. The EAC accept the Draft Reserves Assessment Strategy (2012) and
present this strategy to Council for its endorsement.
2. The EAC request Council to consider in its 2012-2013 Financial Budget monies for implementation of management actions within the Strategy.
A Reserve Strategy document is being drafted and will be presented back to EAC for comment. The question with the Reserves Assessment remains: should the data which has already been collated become the premise for reserve management or should up to date data be collated and amendments changed to the Draft Reserves Assessment Strategy prior to Council endorsement? The Roadside Conservation Strategy is planned for completion this year. The adopt and implement section of the strategy was proposed for 2016/2017 in the Corporate Business Plan. Implementation activities include brochure design and print, up to date mapping and resources for dieback treatment and weed control. The following years’ projects include:
• Completion of the State of the Environment Report • Dams Policy review • Road Reserve weed management program • Carbon Reduction Strategy • Dieback Policy Review • Fauna Awareness Strategy • Weed Strategy review • Wildlife Corridor Strategy review.
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EAC9 APRIL 2016
The EAC is required to consider the priority order of completion of the above. Shire staff suggest the following priority for consideration:
• Sustainable and Environmental Education Program – will need to commence as per EMRC agreement
• Reserves Assessment Strategy – complete with the current data for council to consider
• Roadside Conservation Strategy – consider external funding to implement with minimal funding from Shire budget
• State of the Environment Report – obtain quotations to enable budget assessment
• Completion of the State of the Environment Report • Weed Strategy review – could also include road reserves to inform a weed
removal program on road verges • Road Reserve weed management program • Dams Policy review • Wildlife Corridor Strategy review – this might also include the Fauna
Awareness Strategy. • Fauna Awareness Strategy (see above) • Dieback Policy Review • Carbon Reduction Strategy.
VOTING REQUIREMENT Simple majority
RECOMMENDATION
That Council prioritises the following projects, in the order that they appear, within the Shire’s Corporate Business Plan:
1. Sustainable and Environmental Education Program 2. Reserves Assessment Strategy 3. Roadside Conservation Strategy 4. State of Environment Report 5. Completion of the State of Environment Report 6. Weed Strategy review 7. Road Reserve weed management program 8. Dams Policy review 9. Wildlife Corridor Strategy review 10. Fauna Awareness Strategy 11. Dieback Policy Review 12. Carbon Reduction Strategy.
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EAC10 APRIL 2016
8.2 Notice of Motion – Compulsory Weed Control on Verges near Reserves
File Code EV.PVN Location / Address N/A Applicant N/A Author Toni Burbidge, Co-ordinator Environment and
Sustainability Senior Employee Mark Luzi, Director Statutory Services Disclosure of Any Interest
Nil
SUMMARY
EAC member Mrs Emmanuelle Daw has requested that the following motion regarding compulsory weed control on verges near reserves be presented to the Committee.
That Council:
1. Makes it compulsory for land owners living within 500 metres from reserves to have their road verges systematically cleaned of all invasive weeds by themselves, with or without the Shire employees and/or friends of reserves help, or only by the Shire employees with or without help of local friends of reserves.
2. Notifies landowners by letter prior to weeding, with information on concerned weeds to encourage them to clean their properties from those weeds; and
3. Requires that revegetation or systematic revegetation whenever and if needed to be accomplished as soon as and when possible following weeding.
BACKGROUND
Mrs Daw has provided the following background to the motion:
“The Shire spends money to control the weeds. It will be cheaper in the long run to have a stricter approach to weeding regarding land owners. Weeds breeding on road verges infest private properties and reserves. Weeding the reserves but not the verges nearby ensure that spread of weeds will be continuous. Spread also occurs on private properties which in turn reinfects verges, so an early control of verges is absolutely necessary for ultimate control of weeds. It is a duty for landowners living near a reserve to ensure the good health of “their” reserve, as it is “their” backyard, often used for recreation. The fire risk increases with weed infestation, especially grasses and gladiolas. The speed of the fire travelling through grass is greater than fire travelling
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EAC11 APRIL 2016
through normal bush, as seen in the recent Esperance fires. Some trees such as tagasaste or wattles increases nitrogen in the soil which in turn increases grass The suggested weeds to be looked for are listed in the book: “Environmental weeds” produced by Wooroloo Brook LCDC, however Tagasaste, Flinders Range wattle, Veldt grass, Love grass, Gladiolas and Watsonias and genista seem to be the fastest spreading weeds in our shire. Included are pictures on weeds spreading on verges (Refer ATTACHMENT 1) with other comments. *The distance in metres of imposed weeding has to be discussed before being established. 500 metres is only a suggestion. Weeds are known to travel by seeds for up to 3km in some species, more or less for others. May be if it proves successful, then the distance can be increased in the years to come.” STATUTORY / LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Nil POLICY IMPLICATIONS Nil FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Weed control in the Shire is a large proportion of the Environmental Services budget. Staff time is provided to send property owners educational letters on weed control where it is considered a local environmental issue. STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS Weed control in the Shire is aligned with the Strategic Documents Natural Environment theme and the protection and enhancement of this environment. SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS By reducing weeds in the Shire we increase biodiversity and encourage native vegetation RISK IMPLICATIONS Residents adjacent to reserves can voluntarily decide to control the weeds on their verges. Therefore there is a risk that weeds continue to thrive in the Shire. EXTERNAL CONSULTATION Nil
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EAC12 APRIL 2016
STAFF COMMENT Whilst Shire verges are a shared responsibility for management there is no authority, local law or legislation for the Shire to require the landowner adjacent to a verge to conduct weed control. The Shire whilst vested to manage verges cannot in its capacity, provide the resources to manage all verges for a variety of threats, including weeds. Environmental Services however do request property owners where appropriate to consider the removal of weeds where they are deemed to be causing an environmental issue. This request is provided via an educational letter with additional information on how to remove the weed. Further, successful grants have focussed on the removal of weeds on road verges where they have aligned with grant applications and the data collated through the Roadside Conservation Strategy survey undertaken a few years ago. The Shire currently does not have a strategic Reserves Assessment which outlines priorities in weed management on conservation assets across the Shire. Shire staff are currently drafting a Roadside Conservation Strategy as part of the Corporate Business Plan process. This strategy will address the issue of weeds on verges and provide recommendations for their management and control. CONCLUSION EAC is advised that there is no legal requirement for residents to control weeds on their verges, however the management of verges is a shared responsibility between the resident and Council. VOTING REQUIREMENT Simple majority
MOTION
That Council:
1. Makes it compulsory for land owners living within 500 metres from reserves to have their road verges systematically cleaned of all invasive weeds by themselves, with or without the Shire employees and/or friends of reserves help, or only by the Shire employees with or without help of local friends of reserves;
2. Notifies landowners by letter prior to weeding, with information on concerned weeds and encourages them to clean their properties from those weeds; and
3. Requires that revegetation or systematic revegetation whenever and if needed be accomplished as and when possible following weeding.
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EAC13 APRIL 2016
8.3 Notice of Motion – Prohibiting the sale of Flinders Range Wattle in the Shire of Mundaring
File Code EV.PVN Author Toni Burbidge, Co-ordinator Environment and
Sustainability Senior Employee Mark Luzi, Director Statutory Services Disclosure of Any Interest
Nil
SUMMARY
EAC member Mrs Emmanuelle Daw has provided the following motion regarding prohibiting the sale of Flinders Range wattle in the Shire of Mundaring.
1. That the sale of Flinders Range wattle be forbidden within the Shire of Mundaring; and
2. That the Shire liaise with neighbouring local governments to address this issue.
BACKGROUND
Mrs Daw has provided the following background to the motion:
“The sale of Flinders Range wattle is still happening (Bunnings, Gidgy nursery…). A lot of volunteers and shire employees’ time is used attempting to control the Flinders Range wattle in the Hills. It has proved to be very harmful for the local flora, as just one plant can smother up to 20sqm of native bush, and produce an infinite quantity of offspring. It is easier to prevent its sale than to control it.”
STATUTORY / LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Flinders Range wattle is not a declared weed in the Shire of Mundaring. POLICY IMPLICATIONS Nil FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There is a cost associated with the control of Flinders Range Wattle’s on Shire land. It is difficult to determine what cost is spent every year on wattle removal alone given the input by volunteers and the process that the wattle is generally removed with other weed species on reserve activities.
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EAC14 APRIL 2016
There is a cost associated with the Flinders Range Wattle Replacement Program proposal as the Shire provides free seedlings to residents through its tree canopy and understorey program. STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS Weed control in the Shire is aligned with the Strategic Documents Natural Environment theme and the protection and enhancement of this environment. SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS By reducing weeds in the Shire we increase biodiversity and encourage native vegetation. RISK IMPLICATIONS The Shire is not able to suggest a stop of the sale of Flinders Range Wattle in neighbouring local governments, the nursery industry and retail outlets. Therefore there is a risk that the weed continues to thrive in the Shire. EXTERNAL CONSULTATION Nil
STAFF COMMENT
The Flinders Range Wattle is not a declared plant or pest plant in Western Australia and therefore there is no state legislation to stop its production, sale or distribution across WA. It does however invade WA’s native bushlands. The Department of Agriculture and Food WA website describes plants that invade bushland. They state: Cootamundra wattle (Acacia baileyana), Sydney golden wattle (A. longifolia) and Flinders Range wattle (A. iteaphylla) are not a problem in their own natural geographic locations where local seed-eating insects keep them in check. But this natural control does not occur in Western Australia where these wattles reproduce prolifically by seed. If fire sweeps through bushland that they have invaded, it promotes faster germination of their seeds. The resource “Grow me Instead” recommends plants to grow instead of the Flinders Range Wattle and their publication states; There are a number of highly recommended hybrid grevilleas that will develop into small trees. Masses of spring and summer flowers, including pink and white 'Pink Surprise', or 'Pink Flush', or cream 'Moonlight' and orange/gold 'Honey gem' provide nectar for native birds. Grevilleas are fast-growing and require light pruning after flowering to encourage dense growth. They can be planted as either a screen or feature specimen and require well drained soils.
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EAC15 APRIL 2016
Most unlike Raspberry Jam in appearance, this wattle has spikes of golden-yellow blooms along its stems from July to October. Varies in habit from a large shrub to a small tree, it will grow from 2 – 10 m high by 3 – 5 m wide depending on the local soil and growing conditions. It tolerates gravely, sandy and clay soils, and is lime and moderately salt tolerant. Prefers semi-shade to full-sun The Shire’s Environmental Services staff have in the past encouraged the community through educational opportunities to take part in a Flinders Range Wattle Replacement Program. This program is voluntary and the Shire has provided replacement seedlings through its Tree Canopy and Understorey Program. The brochure (Refer ATTACHMENT 2) requires updating with current information and redesign to conform with the Shire’s style guidelines. Environmental Services staff have met to discuss possibilities for future external funding applications for the continuation and improvement of the Flinders Range Removal and Replacement Program. CONCLUSION EAC is advised that it is not considered possible for the Shire to prohibit the sale of Flinders Range Wattle. However Environmental Services staff have recently met to discuss the continuation of the Flinders Range Replacement Program and how this could be externally funded and improved. VOTING REQUIREMENT Simple majority
MOTION
That Council:
1. forbid the sale of Flinders Range Wattle within the Shire of Mundaring; and
2. liaise with neighbouring local governments to address this issue.
26.04.2016 ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA
EAC16 APRIL 2016
8.4 Glyphosate use in the Shire of Mundaring
File Code EV.PVN Author Toni Burbidge, Co-ordinator Environment and
Sustainability Shane Purdy, Director Infrastructure Services
Senior Employee Mark Luzi, Director Statutory Services Disclosure of Any Interest
Nil
SUMMARY
EAC member Mr Jim Thom has provided the following motion regarding the concern of glyphosate use in the Shire of Mundaring.
That Council:
a) Reduces its reliance on glyphosate by ceasing its use on suburban road verges, in parks, recreation grounds and other areas of high public traffic;
b) Continues to use the product for weed control in bushland areas of high conservation value and for bush regeneration using appropriate signage to warn of its use;
c) Undertakes an independent assessment of the overall effectiveness and cost of herbicide use within the Shire including comparative testing of alternative weed control methods; and
d) Reassesses the use of glyphosate within the Shire following release of the Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) findings.
BACKGROUND
Mr Thom has provided the following background to the motion:
The Shire of Mundaring relies heavily on the herbicide glyphosate for weed eradication (1). There is growing community concern, both within Australia and internationally, about the use glyphosate due to its reported effect on human health and the environment. This compound has been banned or restricted in many places overseas particularly Europe and South America (2,3). The cities of Fremantle and Nedlands (4) have already significantly reduced their use of glyphosate due to health concerns. The APVMA is currently reviewing the issue but their recommendation is not due for several months. Alternative methods of weed control are available. These include:
• Removal using a steam weeder (soon to be available from EMRC). • Biological removal using selected pathogens • Overlaying with weed mats • Manual and mechanical removal • Acceptance of the weed infiltration when it is of minor importance
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EAC17 APRIL 2016
• Intensive planting of native plants • Other chemical weed killers • A new Australian product (LocalSafe) which claims to be effective and
non toxic
EMRC have produced a book that promotes nontoxic alternative weed control methods called “The bush is a garden – chemical free weeding strategies.”
None of these are as effective or as convenient as glyphosate. Some may be more expensive, more energy intensive and even more toxic. The evidence for the detrimental effects of glyphosate is not yet conclusive, but strong enough to justify the major community concern which has been highlighted recently in the media.
Further scientific research is provided in ATTACHMENT 3.
STATUTORY / LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Nil POLICY IMPLICATIONS A restriction in weed control techniques requires a policy position of Council. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Significant extra costs could be incurred to achieve similar quantities of weed control work should less efficient weed control techniques be used. STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS The non-use of chemical weed products would make control of weeds in natural areas and built environments difficult in a large shire such as Mundaring given our financial limitations. SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS The impacts on the health and habitat of native vegetation and fauna for each weed control technique requires examination. RISK IMPLICATIONS By not using cost efficient and effective weed control may result in an increase of weeds. The health of the public and contractors are paramount and the use of chemical products and strict adherence to health and product usage information is therefore very important. EXTERNAL CONSULTATION Nil
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EAC18 APRIL 2016
COMMENT The APVMA has updated the glyphosate page on its website in response to a report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The APVMA’s current assessment is that, provided products containing glyphosate are used as per the label instructions, they are safe to use. Glyphosate is an important tool for the nursery industry, used in the on-farm management of weeds. The website explains the processes underway, both in Australia and internationally, to assess the findings of the IARC report. Results of these assessments are expected in mid-2016.
In March 2015, the World Health Organization - International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A). This was based on “limited” evidence of cancer in humans (from real-world exposures that actually occurred) and “sufficient” evidence of cancer in experimental animals (from studies of “pure” glyphosate). This Group 2A category is used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. Limited evidence means that a positive association has been observed between exposure to the agent and cancer but that other explanations for the observations (called chance, bias, or confounding) could not be ruled out. This category is also used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and strong data on how the agent causes cancer. It is important to understand the context of the IARC items listed as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A) which includes for example red meat as probably carcinogenic to humans, with possible risks for colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer. The IARC advise the probability of developing a cancer will depend on factors such as the type and extent of exposure and the strength of the effect of the agent. The use of all chemicals in public places is carefully applied with warning signage and exclusion zones when applied to eliminate any direct air spray and allow drying before any contact. Glyphosate continues to be approved by the Health Department of WA and indeed all Australian State Health Departments and in other countries around the world. It is a commonly used chemical for effective total control of broadleaf weeds. It is for this reason it is still widely used for domestic and commercial use and purchased from any common supermarket, hardware or garden centre shop. In the absence of detailed information to the contrary glyphosate based on current information is one of the safest and best means to obtain effective total broadleaf weed control and therefore will continue to be one of the weed chemicals used by the Shire until better broad area alternative effective measures are found. The Shire is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our community, employees and contractors. Should the advice regarding the use
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EAC19 APRIL 2016
of glyphosate or other chemicals used change from their current approved status by the Department of Health, the Shire will undertake appropriate changes. Glyphosate is a commonly used domestic weed killer which can be bought from retail outlets and is found in many residential sheds and garages. The Shire where practical will do manual weed removal and has tried other measures such as high pressure steam but none of these are as effective as traditional measures in controlling weeds in broad area applications. High pressure steam is problematic in natural environmental areas as they can significantly harm frogs, lizards and other fauna if contact is made whereas Roundup Biactive for example has been specifically formulated for use in environmentally sensitive areas. This formulation is for use in sensitive areas such as around streams, creeks, dams, channels and drains yet controls a broad spectrum of annual, perennial and aquatic weeds
VOTING REQUIREMENT Simple majority
MOTION
That Council:
a) Reduces its reliance on glyphosate by ceasing its use on suburban road verges, in parks, recreation grounds and other areas of high public traffic;
b) Continues to use the product for weed control in bushland areas of high conservation value and for bush regeneration using appropriate signage to warn of its use;
c) Undertakes an independent assessment of the overall effectiveness and cost of herbicide use within the Shire including comparative testing of alternative weed control methods; and
d) Reassesses the use of glyphosate within the Shire following release of the APVMA findings.
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EAC20 APRIL 2016
9.0 ELECTED MEMBERS MOTIONS OF WHICH PREVIOUS NOTICE HAS BEEN GIVEN Nil
10.0 URGENT BUSINESS (LATE REPORTS) 11.0 CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS Nil 12.0 CLOSING PROCEDURES 12.1 Date, Time and Place of the Next Meeting
The next Environmental Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday 21 June 2016 at 6.00pm in the Committee Room at the Administration Building. The Environmental Advisory Committee meetings for the remainder of the year are as follows: Tuesday 16 August 2016 Tuesday 15 November 2016
12.0 Closure of the Meeting 13.0 ATTACHMENTS
ATTACHMENT NO.
ITEM NO.
SUBJECT
1 8.2 Weed Invasion on Verge Photographs
2 8.3 Photographs of Flinders Range Wattle and Flinders Range Wattle Replacement Program Brochure
3 8.4 Glyphosate Information
4 Budget Items 2015-2016
5 Community Education Strategy - February 2016
6 Schedule of Current Activities
ATTACHMENT 1 Detail of gladiola dry material from last year leaves. More this year and so on, this is in Chidlow town site, near the playgroup building and water corporation bush reserve. Gladiola destroys native plants by taking their place, and creates a greater fire danger than just natives. They need to be eradicated and are an easy target but need perseverance, like all other weeds. However they are easy compared to Flinders Range or grasses.
Those are pictures of the road reserves where the Stoneville fire has burnt through 2 years ago; you can see a very healthy bush with veldt grass starting to invade it. On this photo, the veldt grass has totally infested the area, creating a fire danger greater than native bush for the speed of spread. It has no more character, it could be anywhere in the world. The Hills beauty is lost to an impersonal look. And more to it, this becomes a breeding site for the weed to spread. Native fauna gets no support from this flora, except for snakes and mice.
Fire danger, loss of biodiversity touristic attraction: love grass, gladiola and Flinders Range wattle, in Chidlow, corner of Liberton Road and Old Northam Road.
Below, fire danger in the shape of wild oats and veldt grass, possibly love grass. Not as pretty as native plants. Will eventually kill natives and create thick undergrowth of dried up grass, as veldt thickens up and straw from the oats accumulates.
ATTACHMENT 2
Flinders range, on the way from Mount Helena to Chidlow. Soon it will be ONLY this bush as you can see from the little ones above ready to grow and swallow anything else in the process. They will even kill grass trees, and smother any little plant by shading it to death. Nurseries should be forbidden to sell it and removal of all existing bushes compulsory. It is not too late, but will take a few years of perseverance and education.
ATTACHMENT 3
Glyphosate
Glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine) is a broad-spectrum systemic herbicide and an organophosphorus compound. It is used to kill weeds, especially annual broadleaf weeds and grasses that compete with crops. It was discovered 1970 and brought to market in 1974 under the trade name Roundup.
Farmers quickly adopted glyphosate, especially after the introduction of genetically engineered, glyphosate-resistant Roundup Ready crops, enabling farmers to kill weeds without killing their crops. Glyphosate is now the most commonly used herbicide in agricultural sector, the home and garden, government and industry and commerce. It is effective and relatively inexpensive and therefore its use is seductive.
Glyphosate is absorbed through foliage and transported to growing points. It inhibits a plant enzyme involved in the synthesis of three aromatic amino acids: tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine. Therefore, it is only effective on actively growing plants. The development of glyphosate resistance in weed species is emerging as a costly problem. While glyphosate and formulations such as Roundup have been approved by regulatory bodies worldwide, concerns about their effects on humans and the environment persist.
Although many claims have been made about its adverse effects to human health most have been unproven. However in March 2015 the International research agency in cancer research (a branch of WHO) classified glyphosate as a group 2A probable carcinogen in humans* (5). This has been disputed by the manufacturer.
Other reported detrimental effects include:
• Frogs are particularly sensitive to this chemical (6) • It can be harmful to soil bacteria and slow plant growth (7) • It can be toxic to insects and earthworms (8) • It has been linked to the reduction in the population of bees due to the
reduction in populations of flowering weeds such as dandelions (9) • The development of populations of glyphosate resistant weeds (10)
*Group 2A means that the agent is probably carcinogenic to humans. This category is used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. Limited evidence means that a positive association has been observed between exposure to the agent and cancer but that other explanations for the observations (called chance, bias, or confounding) could not be ruled out. This category is also used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and strong data on how the agent causes cancer.
1) Mundaring Shire weed control action plan. www.mundaring.wa.gov.au/.../Documents/strategy_weedccontrrol_2002.pdf 2) Sustainable Pulse. Apr 4 2014 Dutch Parliament Bans Glyphosate Herbicides for Non-
Commercial Use 3) BBC news http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-32677411
4) City of Nedlands pest and weed control. www.nedlands.wa.gov.au/pest-and-weed-control
5) Guyton KZ, Loomis D, Grosse Y, El Ghissassi F, Benbrahim-Tallaa L, Guha N, Scoccianti C, Mattock H, Straif K (May 2015). "Carcinogenicity of tetrachlorvinphos, parathion, malathion, diazinon, and glyphosate". The Lancet. Oncology 16 (5): 490–1. doi:10.1016/S1470-2045(15)70134-8. PMID 25801782.
6) Mann RM, Hyne RV, Choung CB, Wilson SP (2009). "Amphibians and agricultural chemicals: Review of the risks in a complex environment". Environmental Pollution 157 (11): 2903–2927. doi:10.1016/j.envpol.2009.05.015
7) Duke SO, Wedge DE, Cerdeira AL, Matallo MB (2007). "Interactions of Synthetic Herbicides with Plant Disease and Microbial Herbicides". In Vurro M, Gressel J. Novel Biotechnologies for Biocontrol Agent Enhancement and Management. NATO Security through Science Series. pp. 277–96. doi:10.1007/978-1-4020-5799-1_15. ISBN 978-1-4020-5797-7.
8) Springett JA, Gray RA (1992). "Effect of repeated low doses of biocides on the earthworm Aporrectodea caliginosa in laboratory culture". Soil Biology and Biochemistry 24 (12): 1739–1744. doi:10.1016/0038-0717(92)90180-6.
9) Herbert LT, Vázquez DE, Arenas A, Farina WM J Exp Biol. 2014 Oct 1;217(Pt 19):3457-64. doi: 10.1242/jeb.109520. Epub 2014 Jul 25.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25063858
10) Heap I. "Resistance by Active Ingredient (select "glyphosate" from the pulldown menu)". The International Survey of Herbicide Resistant Weeds. Retrieved 13 April 2014.
The following information has been sourced from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Authority (APVMA) website. The report released last year by the International Agency for research in cancer (IARC), an agency part of the World Health Organisation, classified glyphosate as ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’.
The IARC assessment looked at the intrinsic toxicity potential or ‘hazard’ of the chemical glyphosate as a cancer-causing agent only. Indoor emissions from burning wood and high temperature frying, some shift work, and consumption of red meat are also classified as probably carcinogenic to humans and are in the same category as glyphosate. Agents classified by IARC in the highest category (carcinogenic to humans) include all alcoholic beverages, consumption of processed meat, solar and ultraviolet radiation (ie sunlight), engine exhaust (diesel), post-menopausal oestrogen and oestrogen-progestogen therapy, outdoor air pollution, occupational exposure as a painter, and soot and wood dust.
When making an assessment of the risk of these substances or lifestyles they did not consider how the risks can be managed in actual use situations and they did not assess the risk of glyphosate causing cancer when used according to the label instructions in a registered chemical product.
As part of the regulatory process undertaken by the APMVA and pesticide regulators in other countries, a hazard assessment is just one part of the overall risk assessment required to determine the risks for people using a formulated chemical product.
It is not the role of the IARC to consider how a formulated chemical product is used, or how human exposure can be minimised by following safety directions on a product label. In this regard, the findings of IARC cannot be directly compared to assessments conducted by regulatory authorities for the purposes of approval
or registration of a pesticide product, in which are included appropriate risk mitigation measures to allow safe use.
The APVMA approach to chemical risk assessment is broader
All glyphosate products registered for use in Australia have been through a robust chemical risk assessment process and are safe to use, provided they are used as per the label instructions.
As Australia’s agvet chemical regulator, it is the role of the APVMA to consider all relevant scientific material when determining the likely impacts on human health and worker safety—including long and short term exposure to users and residues in food before registering a product.
We consider the full range of risks—which include studies of cancer risks—and how human exposure can be minimised through instructions for use and safety directions.
Chemical risk assessment = hazard assessment + exposure assessment Hazard assessment: an assessment of the data related to the intrinsic toxicity potential of an active constituent and/or formulated product Exposure assessment: an assessment of the likely exposure of humans and environmental organisms that takes into account how the chemical product is to be used, the type and formulation of the product, and the crops or animals to be treated
APVMA action
The APVMA takes all findings by international agencies very seriously and, as a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) expert group on this matter, will be directly involved in assessing consideration of all studies and data.
The current assessment by the APVMA is that provided products containing glyphosate are used as per the label instructions, they are safe to use.
No significant changes are expected to come out of the re-evaluation by the JMPR because currently studies and data do not suggest any substantial changes are required.
Once the re-evaluation by JMPR is complete the APVMA will decide what regulatory action, if any, is required for glyphosate products registered for use in Australia.
Previous regulatory action
The APVMA has published international activity on glyphosate previously and has also considered the recent findings of the 2014 review of glyphosate (link is external) completed by the German risk assessment authority.
Previously published material:
• Chemicals in the News: Glyphosate – 6 August 2013 • Glyphosate is being reviewed in the United States and Canada. Is it still safe
to use? – 31 August 2010.
International review of diazinon, glyphosate and malathion
A joint expert taskforce (link is external) comprising scientists from the WHO (link is external), national governments and universities has reviewed the information considered by IARC to determine whether there is a need to update previous assessments on glyphosate undertaken by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (or JMPR) done in 2011, 2006 and 2003. The APVMA was represented on this expert taskforce by the Director of its Chemical Review program, Dr Matthew O'Mullane.
The taskforce recommended that the JMPR undertake a full re-evaluation of diazinon, glyphosate and malathion. This re-evaluation will consider all adverse human health effects, including carcinogenicity and will be completed by mid 2016 following a meeting of the JMPR will be convened in Geneva, Switzerland, at WHO headquarters. The APVMA will continue to participate in these international assessments and to carefully consider assessments released by pesticide regulators in other counties such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).
JMPR (link is external) is an international expert scientific group administered jointly by the United Nations FAO and the WHO, which undertakes pesticide risk assessments for the purpose of establishing safe limits of pesticide residues in food important for international trade.
Glyphosate is unlikely to be carcinogenic—EFSA
EFSA has completed a reassessment of glyphosate (link is external) as part of the European Union (EU) pesticide renewal process, which included a consideration of the IARC assessment.
EFSA considered an extensive body of scientific evidence, including a number of studies not assessed by the IARC, to reach the conclusion that glyphosate does not cause cancer in humans.
Using glyphosate products
All chemical products have instructions for safety and use on the label. The labels on glyphosate products are there for your safety and provide practical information on how to use each product. Always read the label instructions and use only as directed.
Based on current risk assessment the label instructions on all glyphosate products—when followed—provides adequate protection for users.
People should follow the use and safety instructions on all chemical product labels as these are designed to reduce human exposure to the chemical product. If the label has been removed or damaged, you can search the APVMA’s chemical database to find the safety information about registered products and permits.
Any supplementary advice proposed by any other jurisdiction does not replace or override the directions for use on the product label—these directions are based on a scientific risk assessment and are legally enforceable.
ATTACHMENT 4
Budget Items 2015-2016
SUMMARY: This attachment presents an update of expenditure on the Environmental Services budget items.
The budget for 2015 – 2016 is provided below:
No A/c No. Budget Item Budget
($) Committed
($) Expend
($) Balance
($) 1 020391 Schools Environmental
Art Competition 3500 3500 0
2 020392 Schools Environmental Education
1,000 1,000
3 020649 Environmental Engagement
1,000 1,000
4 020684 Environmental Information Pack
500 500 0
5 020687 EAC Consultation/Promotion
6000 5322 678
6 020859 Website Updates 0 0 0
7 021082 Friends Group Strategy Volunteer Recognition
Event 2500 2500 0
Friends Group Networking Event
500 500 0
Other Friends Group Materials
1000 1,000
TOTAL
16,000
12,322
3,678
EAC members may provide input to staff on the items for expenditure.
ATTACHMENT 5
COMMUNITY EDUCATION STRATEGY February 2016
Background: The community education strategy is developed by the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) through a workshop process. The Strategy consolidates existing environmental education and communication activities and identifies new activities in accordance with the EAC’s Terms of Reference. The Community Education Strategy links strongly with the Shire’s Strategic Community Plan and will assist in fulfilling its vision Connecting community and environment. Objectives: 1. To educate, raise awareness and inform the community of the Shire’s Policies
and Strategies as well as the Mundaring Environment. 2. To encourage community participation and involvement in environmental
activities. 3. To consult and gain feedback from the community and environmental issues. No. Activity Progress/Implementation 1 Environmental Art
Competition 2016 theme is water.
2 Environmental Education in schools
New budget for this financial year $1,000
3 Environmental Articles Continuing with the Shire’s communication’s team. Ideas from EAC on articles welcomed.
4 Environmental Brochures Short term goal is to create a register of existing brochures and capture the gaps. Low priority at present. Next brochure will consider educating residents about Local Natural Areas
5 EAC consultation Short term goals are to promote EAC, invite community comment to EAC. Provide a mechanism that community can contact EAC. Create media article on the EAC its role and function.
6 Environmental conference
Short term goal is for a subcommittee to work on topics, timing, costing and speakers.
7 Councillor engagement EAC has spoken at Council Information Meeting February 2014. Given a new Council, another information session at a future Council Forum may be appropriate.
8 Environmental Information Pack
Council has produced an electronic and hard copy of the information pack for new residents incorporating all services within the Shire, including environmental services.
ATTACHMENT 6
Schedule of Current Activities SUMMARY:
This attachment includes a range of actions currently being undertaken by the EAC. It will also capture any future actions of the EAC.
BACKGROUND:
Current Activities are discussed at each meeting following the close of the formal meeting and relate mainly to Council resolutions on EAC Recommendations. These actions also cover various EAC sub-committee reports. COMMENT:
Reference Activity Action Responsibility 20.6.2006 Connection to Fauna
Project Create a Fauna Awareness Strategy incorporating Green Spot Program, Connection to Fauna Sculpture and Glovebox Injured Wildlife Guide (CBP 2018/2019)
Sub-committee and Shire Staff (Mark, Darren, Jane, Toni)
3.8.2004 Roadside Conservation Strategy
Creation of a Roadside conservation strategy. This is on the Corporate Business Plan for (2015/16 and 2016/17)
Sub-committee (Darren, Tom, Rob, Heidi/Justine)
21.2.2012 Reserves Strategy Create a smaller document of the Management Actions and one overall Reserves Strategy Document. Present to Council for endorsement. This is on the Corporate Business Plan for 2016/17)
Shire staff
21/4/2015 State of the Environment Report
Review to be undertaken 2016-2017 as per Corporate Business Plan
Shire staff
Oct 2014 History of the EAC Capture history of the EAC and document
Tom Hogarth
Connection to Fauna – A presentation on the Green Spot Program was conducted at the Perth Region NRM AGM. Also signage has been installed in the new locations for 2016. Roadside Conservation Strategy – internal meetings are being held on the content of the draft that EAC members had an opportunity to comment on. Reserves Strategy – Item in this agenda requires EAC to prioritise Corporate Business Plan projects. State of the Environment Report - Item in this agenda requires EAC to prioritise Corporate Business Plan projects.
History of the EAC – Shire staff are working with EAC member Tom Hogarth on this project and have provided information as requested.
