Native Vegetation Clearance Long Valley Road Overtaking ...

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Native Vegetation Clearance

Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane

Data Report

Clearance under the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017

6 August 2021

Prepared by Hayley Merigot & Stuart Collard (NVC Accredited Consultants) – EBS Ecology

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Native Vegetation Clearance Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane Data

Report

6 August 2021

Final

Prepared by EBS Ecology for GHD Pty Ltd

Document Control

Revision No. Date issued Authors Reviewed by Date Reviewed Revision type

1 05/11/2020 Stuart Collard, Mark Laws (NVC Accredited

Consultant) Alison Derry 04/11/2020 Draft

2 23/11/2020 Stuart Collard, Mark Laws Alison Derry 22/11/2020 Draft

3 7/01/2021 Hayley Merigot (NVC Accredited Consultant) Chris Gibson 7/01/2021 Draft

4 2/06/2021 Hayley Merigot - - Draft

5 15/07/2021 EBS Ecology Dr Marina Louter 16/07/2021 Draft

6 6/08/2021 EBS Ecology - - Final

Distribution of Copies

Revision No. Date issued Media Issued to

1 05/11/2020 Electronic Mac Aird, GHD Pty Ltd






EBS Ecology Project Number: EX200202B

COPYRIGHT: Use or copying of this document in whole or in part (including photographs) without the written permission of EBS

Ecology’s client and EBS Ecology constitutes an infringement of copyright.

LIMITATION: This report has been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of EBS Ecology’s client, and is subject to and

issued in connection with the provisions of the agreement between EBS Ecology and its client. EBS Ecology accepts no liability or

responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any third party.

CITATION: EBS Ecology (2021) Native Vegetation Clearance Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane Data Report. Report to GHD Pty Ltd.

EBS Ecology, Adelaide.

Cover photograph: Long Valley Road Vegetation Association 1A within the Project Area.

EBS Ecology

112 Hayward Avenue

Torrensville, South Australia 5031

t: 08 7127 5607

http://www.ebsecology.com.au

email: [email protected]

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Glossary and abbreviations BAM Bushland Assessment Method

BDBSA Biological Database of South Australia (maintained by DEW)

DAWE Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (Commonwealth)

DEW Department for Environment and Water (South Australia)

DIT Department for Infrastructure and Transport

EBS Environment and Biodiversity Services Pty Ltd (trading as EBS Ecology)

EPBC Act Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

GHD GHD Pty Ltd

ha Hectare(s)

IBRA Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation of Australia

km Kilometre(s)

NatureMaps Initiative of DEW that provides a common access point to maps and geographic information about

South Australia's natural resources in an interactive online mapping format

NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972

NV Act Native Vegetation Act 1991

NVC Native Vegetation Council

PMST Protected Matters Search Tool (under the EPBC Act; maintained by DAWE)

Project Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane

Project Area Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane on Long Valley Road, Gemmells

SA South Australia(n)

Search Area 5 km buffer of the Project Area considered in the desktop assessment database searches

SEB Significant Environmental Benefit

sp. Species

spp. Species (plural)

ssp. Sub-species

STAM Scattered Tree Assessment Method

TEC Threatened Ecological Community

var. Variety (a taxonomic rank below that of species and subspecies, but above that of form)

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Table of contents

Glossary and abbreviations .................................................................................................................................................3

Table of contents ..................................................................................................................................................................4

1. Application information ...............................................................................................................................................6

2. Purpose of clearance ....................................................................................................................................................9

2.1. Description................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9

2.2. Background ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

2.3. General location map ......................................................................................................................................................................... 11

2.4. Details of the proposal ...................................................................................................................................................................... 12

2.5. Approvals required or obtained ..................................................................................................................................................... 12

Native Vegetation Act 1991 .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 ................................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) ..................................................................................... 12

Landscape South Australia Act 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Amenity vegetation .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

2.6. Native Vegetation Regulation ......................................................................................................................................................... 13

3. Method ........................................................................................................................................................................ 14

3.1. Desktop assessment ........................................................................................................................................................................... 14

3.1.1. PMST report ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14

3.1.2. BDBSA data extract ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14

3.1.3. Likelihood of occurrence ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 14

3.2. Flora assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................. 15

3.2.1. Bushland Assessment Method ............................................................................................................................................................................ 15

3.2.2. Scattered Tree Assessment Method.................................................................................................................................................................. 15

3.3. Fauna assessment ................................................................................................................................................................................ 16

4. Assessment outcomes ............................................................................................................................................... 16

4.1. Vegetation assessment ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16

4.1.1. General description of the vegetation, the site and matters of significance ................................................................................... 16

4.1.2. Details of the vegetation associates/scattered trees proposed to be impacted ............................................................................ 18

4.1.3. Site map showing areas of proposed impact ................................................................................................................................................ 21

4.2. Threatened species assessment ..................................................................................................................................................... 27

4.2.1. Matters of National Environmental Significance .................................................................................................................................. 27

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4.2.2. Threatened Flora and Fauna ............................................................................................................................................................................. 27

4.3. Cumulative impacts ............................................................................................................................................................................. 30

4.4. Addressing the Mitigation Hierarchy ........................................................................................................................................... 31

4.5. Principles of Clearance (Schedule 1, Native Vegetation Act 1991) ................................................................................... 32

4.6. Risk assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 33

5. Clearance summary .................................................................................................................................................... 34

6. Significant Environmental Benefit ........................................................................................................................... 36

7. References ................................................................................................................................................................... 37

8. Appendices .................................................................................................................................................................. 39

List of Tables

Table 1. Application details. .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Table 2. Summary of the proposed clearance. ................................................................................................................................................ 6

Table 3. Criteria for the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species within the Project Area. .......................................... 14

Table 4. Summary of VA1. ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 18

Table 5. Details of the scattered trees proposed to be impacted. ....................................................................................................... 19

Table 6. Likelihood of occurrence of threatened fauna species identified in the desktop assessment. The data source

and threat levels are described in the table footer. .................................................................................................................................... 28

Table 7. Likelihood of occurrence of threatened flora species identified in the desktop assessment. The data source

and threat levels are described in the table footer. .................................................................................................................................... 30

Table 8. Assessment against the Principles of Clearance. ........................................................................................................................ 32

Table 9. Summary of the level of risk associated with the application. .............................................................................................. 33

List of Figures

Figure 1. Location of the Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane Project Area. ..................................................................................... 11

Figure 2. Native Vegetation Associations, Scattered trees, amenity vegetation and weeds along Long Valley Road in

the Project Area (Map 1 of 6). ............................................................................................................................................................................. 21











Attachments:

Attachment 1. Site A1 - Bushland Assessment Site.

Attachment 2. Scattered tree Assessment scoresheet.

Attachment 3. Long Valley Rd Vegetation Assessment Photo File.

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1. Application information Table 1. Application details.

Applicant: Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) South Australia

Key contact:

Ms Catherine Gray

Senior Environmental Advisor

Transport Planning and Program Development

Department for Infrastructure and Transport

T: 8402 1874 • M: 0419 851 548 • E: [email protected]

Landowner: The Crown

Site Address: Long Valley Rd, Gemmells

Local Government

Area:

Alexandrina Hundred:

Strathalbyn

Title ID: N/A – Road reserve Parcel ID N/A – Road reserve

Table 2. Summary of the proposed clearance.

Purpose of clearance:

Clearance is required for the construction of an overtaking lane along Long Valley

Road to facilitate safer traffic movement.

Native Vegetation

Regulation:

Regulation 12, Schedule 1: Clause 32 – Works on behalf of Commissioner of

Highways

Description of the

vegetation under

application:

0.11 ha of Grassy woodlands and 79 trees of four species (14 Eucalyptus

fasciculosa, 4 Acacia pycnantha, 55 Eucalyptus camaldulensis and 6 Allocasuarina

verticillata)

Total proposed clearance –

area (ha) and/or number of

trees:

0.11 ha of native vegetation and 79 scattered trees are proposed to be cleared.

Level of clearance: Level 4 (Escalating from Level 3)

Overlay (Planning and

Design Code):

Native Vegetation Overlay

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Map of proposed clearance

area:

Mitigation Hierarchy:

Avoidance - It is unlikely that clearance associated with the proposed overtaking

lane can be avoided or located elsewhere. Four alternative options were

considered for the location of the overtaking lane, with vegetation clearance a key

consideration in determining the preferred location. Two sub-options were

considered at the preferred location: widening on the eastern side (the Project

Area) and alternately widening on the western side. Although the eastern side is a

larger clearance area, much of this additional clearance area is exotic grassland or

herb land. Additionally, the eastern side has more planted vegetation and a large

patch of woody exotic plants. For these reasons, the eastern side was selected as

the best option to reduce the impacts on native vegetation.

Moving the overtaking lane to another section of the road is not practically

feasible and is unlikely to substantially reduce the vegetation clearance impact.

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Minimisation - Road Design parameters have been reduced as much as

practically possible to reduce the width of the proposed works and reduce

vegetation removal (i.e. steeping of batters and reducing shoulder widths). Where

possible, vegetation removal may be minimised by pruning rather than removing

some of the trees on the edge of the Project Area, subject to arborist assessment.

Tree 201 has been included for removal as the area around the tree is being sealed

which may impact on the stability and health of the tree. Where possible, this tree

will be retained, however this will be subject to arborist assessment.

Rehabilitation or restoration - No onsite rehabilitation will occur with this

clearance as roadsides are not secure locations for replanting due to the potential

for future construction and maintenance activities. To ensure the surrounding

vegetation quality is maintained, it is recommended that Declared and

Environmental weed species (e.g. Olive, Bridal Creeper, etc.) are controlled.

Offset - Any adverse impact on native vegetation or ecosystems that cannot be

avoided or minimised should be offset by implementing an SEB that outweighs

that impact. Biodiversity offsets address any residual impacts after prevention and

mitigation measures have been implemented.

The NVC will only approve clearances if these steps have been fulfilled. Offsetting

is only considered by the NVC when a proponent has identified and documented

appropriate measures to avoid and minimise negative impacts (direct or indirect)

on biodiversity. Biodiversity offsets are only appropriate for projects that have

rigorously applied the Mitigation Hierarchy to the fullest extent. Offsets must

never be used to circumvent responsibilities to avoid and minimise damage to

biodiversity and the NVC will consider this when determining whether the

clearance can proceed.

SEB Offset proposal Payment of $117,482.80 which includes an administration fee of $6,124.69

(including GST).

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2. Purpose of clearance

2.1. Description

EBS Ecology were engaged by GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) to assess an area of vegetation proposed for clearance on the eastern

side of Long Valley Road, Gemmells (Figure 1). The Project Area extends from south of the railway track intersection to

the Gemmells Road intersection (inclusive). Clearance is required for the construction of an overtaking lane to facilitate

safer traffic movement.

Long Valley Road is an important road that connects Strathalbyn to Mount Barker and the South Eastern Freeway to

Adelaide. The existing road is winding and undulating and has limited opportunities for safe overtaking along the 13

km between the towns of Wistow and Strathalbyn. Currently, only two northbound overtaking lanes (acting as climbing

lanes) are present, both are towards the southern end of the road. Two fatal crashes on this road in 2019-2020 have

put a sharper focus on identifying opportunities to improve safety for all road users.

Accordingly, the Department of identified the need for a new southbound overtaking lane within this section. The new

overtaking lane will provide safe and convenient overtaking opportunities and reduce the potential for head-on

collisions due to driver frustration. The works will include additional separation between the northbound and

southbound carriageways in the vicinity of the new overtaking lane to reduce the potential for head-on collisions with

errant vehicles, audio tactile line marking (ATLM) and a central wire rope safety barrier (WRSB). It will also include

improved protection is to be provided from roadside hazards.

Objectives

The objectives of the project are to:

Undertake a desktop assessment of the likelihood of occurrence and status of threatened flora and fauna

protected under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

and State National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 (NPW Act);

Undertake a survey of the vegetation and identify and include vegetation that will require removal and/or

major prune approval as a result of the works; and

Prepare a Vegetation Survey Report, including recommendations to avoid and/or minimise impacts to

vegetation, calculation of the required SEB offset and preparation of the appropriate Vegetation Removal

Approval Documents to accompany the impacts identified in the vegetation survey.

This report presents findings of the desktop assessment; in addition to results of the Bushland Assessment Method

(BAM) and Scattered Tree Assessment Method (STAM) required for assessing trees proposed for clearance under the

Native Vegetation Regulations.

2.2. Background

Current and surrounding land use

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The Long Valley Rd Project Area is located in South Australia approximately 5 kilometres (km) to the east of

Macclesfield. The Project Area includes roadside vegetation to the east from 35°10'33.0"S 138°53'25.3"E to 35°11'17.5"S

138°53'37.8"E, as well as small patches of planted amenity vegetation surrounding the Gemmell Rd intersection (Figure

1).

The Project Area (Block 1) comprised two small areas of native vegetation and 79 scattered trees with largely exotic

understorey vegetation distributed along the roadside. Small areas of planted amenity vegetation were present on

either side of the Gemmell Rd intersection. The site occurs completely within a Department for Infrastructure and

Transport (DIT) road reserve and is bounded to the east by private farming properties.

The nearest reserved area is Monarto Conservation Park which is 18 km to the East. The closest Heritage Area is HA

1459, which lies approximately 2 km to the east of the Project Area.

Administrative Boundaries

The Project Area occurs within the South Australian Murray Darling Basin (SAMDB) Natural Resources Management

(NRM) Region, Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Management Region and the Alexandrina Local Government Area.

Bioregions

The Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) identifies geographically distinct bioregions based on

common climate, geology, landform, native vegetation and species information. The bioregions are further refined into

subregions and environmental associations. The Project Area is located in the Kanmantoo IBRA Bioregion, Fleurieu

IBRA Subregion and Scotts Hill IBRA Environmental Association.

Approximately 12% (45,372 ha) of the Fleurieu IBRA Subregion and approximately 10% (9673 ha) of the Scotts Hill IBRA

Environmental Association is mapped as remnant vegetation. Of this, 24% (10,865 ha) and 5% (464 ha) is formerly

conserved and protected, respectively.

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2.3. General location map

Figure 1. Location of the Long Valley Road Overtaking Lane Project Area.

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2.4. Details of the proposal

The proposed clearance area for the overtaking lane upgrades include the removal 0.11 ha of native vegetation and

79 scattered trees along Long Valley Road.

2.5. Approvals required or obtained

Native Vegetation Act 1991

The Native Vegetation Act 1991 (NV Act) applies in the Project Area. Therefore, native vegetation must not be cleared

unless approval is granted by the Native Vegetation Council (NVC) in accordance with Section 29 of the Act or it is

permitted under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017.

It is proposed that the area to be cleared on the eastern side of Long Valley Road is assessed under Regulation 12(32)

of the Native Vegetation Regulations: Works on behalf of the Commissioner of Highways. This regulation requires

assessment against the Mitigation Hierarchy and achievement of a Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB), which will

be determined and calculated at a later stage when DIT have their final clearance footprint.

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972

Native plants and animals in South Australia are protected under the NPW Act. It is an offence to take a native plant

or protected animal without approval. Threatened plant and animal species are listed in Schedules 7 (Endangered

species), 8 (Vulnerable species) and 9 (Rare species) of the Act. Persons must not:

Take a native plant on a reserve, wilderness protection area, wilderness protection zone, land reserved for

public purposes, a forest reserve or any other Crown land;

Take a native plant of a prescribed species on private land;

Take a native plant on private land without the consent of the owner (such plants may also be covered by the

NV Act);

Take a protected animal or the eggs of a protected animal without approval;

Keep protected animals unless authorised to do so; and

Use poison to kill a protected animal without approval.

Conservation rated flora and fauna species listed on Schedules 7, 8, or 9 of the NPW Act are known to or may occur

within the Project Area. Persons must comply with the conditions imposed upon permits and approvals.

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth)

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and the Environment Protection and

Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000 provide a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and

internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places – defined in the Act as ‘matters of

national environmental significance’. Any action that has, will have, or is likely to have a significant impact on matters

of national environmental significance (MNES) requires referral under the EPBC Act.

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Landscape South Australia Act 2019

The Landscape South Australia Act 2019 (LSA Act) recently replaced the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 (NRM

Act). Under the LSA Act, new regional landscape boards have been established. The aim is to deliver NRM related

services to regional communities, including effective water management, pest plant and animal control, soil and land

management and support for broader sustainable primary production programs. Under the LSA Act, landholders have

a legal responsibility to manage declared pest plants and animals and prevent land and water degradation.

Amenity vegetation

Planted vegetation plays important functional and aesthetic roles in urban and rural environments, improving the visual

amenity of our landscapes. Amenity plantings provide screening between transport corridors and adjacent properties.

Some planted vegetation is not protected under the Native Vegetation Act, but is instead assessable as amenity

vegetation under DIT vegetation clearance guidelines. (DIT 2020) and must be offset to avoid a “net loss” of amenity

vegetation.

Amenity vegetation does not include declared plants or environmental weeds (with the exception of environmental

weeds that are planted and have amenity value). Amenity value is “a measure of how highly the community values the

contribution of the vegetation to the pleasantness and attractiveness of the local landscape. If a tree is at a location

readily viewed by the public (e.g. along transport corridors, or accessible by the community via other means including

walking, horse riding, mountain bike riding and off-road vehicles), then its amenity value must be considered” (DIT

2020).

2.6. Native Vegetation Regulation

The Project is considered to be permitted under the following regulation:

Regulation 12(32)—Works on behalf of Commissioner of Highways

Clearance of vegetation incidental to work being undertaken by or on behalf of the Commissioner of Highways

(other than repair or maintenance work of a kind referred to in Part 1 clause 2).

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3. Method

3.1. Desktop assessment

A desktop assessment was undertaken to determine the potential for any threatened flora and fauna species, and

Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) (both Commonwealth and State listed) to occur within the Project Area.

This was achieved by undertaking database searches using a 5 km buffer of the Project Area (Search Area).

3.1.1. PMST report

A Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) report was generated on 7 July 2021 to identify nationally threatened flora

and fauna, migratory fauna and TECs under the EPBC Act relevant to the Project Area (DAWE 2020). Only species and

TECs identified in the PMST report that are likely or known to occur within the Search Area were assessed for their

likelihood of occurrence within the Project Area.

3.1.2. BDBSA data extract

A data extract from the Biological Database of South Australia (BDBSA) was obtained from NatureMaps to identify

flora and fauna species that have been recorded within 5 km of the Project Area (data extracted 7 July 2021; DEW

2020). The BDBSA is comprised of an integrated collection of species records from the South Australian Museum,

conservation organisations, private consultancies, Birds SA, Birdlife Australia and the Australasian Wader Study

Group, which meet the Department for Environment and Water’s (DEW) standards for data quality, integrity and

maintenance. Only species with records since 1995 and a spatial reliability of less than 1 km were assessed for their

likelihood of occurrence.

3.1.3. Likelihood of occurrence

The criteria for the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species within the Project Area are described in Table 3.

Table 3. Criteria for the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species within the Project Area.

Likelihood Criteria

Highly

Likely/Known

Recorded in the last 10 years, the species does not have highly specific niche requirements, the habitat is

present and falls within the known range of the species distribution or;

The species was recorded as part of field surveys.

Likely Recorded within the previous 20 years, the area falls within the known distribution of the species and the

area provides habitat or feeding resources for the species.

Possible

Recorded within the previous 20 years, the area falls inside the known distribution of the species, but the

area provide limited habitat or feeding resources for the species.

Recorded within 20 -40 years, survey effort is considered adequate, habitat and feeding resources present,

and species of similar habitat needs have been recorded in the area.

Unlikely

Recorded within the previous 20 years, but the area provide no habitat or feeding resources for the species,

including perching, roosting or nesting opportunities, corridor for movement or shelter.

Recorded within 20 -40 years; however, suitable habitat does not occur, and species of similar habitat

requirements have not been recorded in the area.

No records despite adequate survey effort.

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3.2. Flora assessment

The flora assessment was undertaken by NVC Accredited Consultants Stuart Collard from 4th – 6th March 2020 and

Mark Laws on 30th September 2020 in accordance with the Bushland and Scattered Tree Assessment Methods (BAM

and STAM (NVC 2020a, 2020c).

3.2.1. Bushland Assessment Method

The BAM is derived from the Nature Conservation Society of South Australia’s Bushland Condition Monitoring

methodology (Croft et al. 2007, 2008a, 2008b, 2009; Milne and Croft 2012; Milne and McCallum 2012). The BAM used

to assess areas of native vegetation requiring clearance and calculate the SEB requirements.

Details of site selection/stratification and assessment protocols, and the biodiversity value components assessed and

the factors that influence these components are outlined in the Bushland Assessment Manual (NVC 2020a).

The Conservation Significance Scores were calculated from direct observations of flora and direct and historical

observations of fauna species of conservation significance. All fauna identified as known to occur in the PMST, and

fauna with BDBSA records since 1995 and with a spatial reliability of less than 1 km, within 5 km of the Project Area,

were included in the BAM scoresheets. Species determined as unlikely to occur within the Project Area will be

removed by the Native Vegetation Branch if the finding is supported. Marine and/or wetland species were omitted

from the scoresheets given the Project Area is terrestrial.

3.2.2. Scattered Tree Assessment Method

The STAM is derived from the Scattered Tree Clearance Assessment in South Australia: Streamlining, Guidelines for

Assessment and Rural Industry Extension report (Cutten and Hodder 2002). The STAM is suitable for assessing

scattered trees in the following instances:

Individual scattered trees (i.e. canopy does not overlap). The spatial distribution of trees may vary from

approaching what would be considered their original distribution (pre-European) through to single isolated

trees in the middle of a paddock; or

Dead trees (when a dead tree is considered native vegetation); or

Clumps of trees (contiguous overlapping canopies) if the clump is small (approximately <0.1 ha); and

For both scattered trees and clumps:

- The ground layer comprises wholly or largely of introduced species;

- Some scattered colonising native species may be present, but represent <5% of the ground

cover; and

- The area around the trees consists of introduced pasture or crops.

Details of the scattered tree Point Scoring System are outlined in the Scattered Tree Assessment Manual (NVC 2020c).

The numbers of uncommon and threatened scattered tree using fauna species entered into the Scattered Tree

Scoresheet were calculated by cross-referring the BDBSA data extract (see Section 3.1.2) and the lists of scattered

tree using fauna in the Scattered Tree Assessment Manual (NVC 2020). The resource use of each species identified was

considered when determining each tree’s suitability for threatened fauna species (e.g. species that only use hollows in

scattered trees were only assigned to scattered trees containing hollows).

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3.3. Fauna assessment

Fauna surveys were conducted in conjunction with the flora assessments along the site. All native and exotic fauna

species opportunistically encountered (directly observed, or tracks, scats, burrows, nests and other signs of presence)

during the native vegetation assessment were recorded. Potential fauna refuge sites, such as hollows, were noted as

an indication of availability of suitable habitat. Particular attention was paid to identifying habitat for threatened

species. For each opportunistic fauna observation, the species, number of individuals, GPS location, detection

methodology (sight, sound or sign) and habitat were recorded.

4. Assessment outcomes

4.1. Vegetation assessment

4.1.1. General description of the vegetation, the site and matters of significance

The vegetation within the Project Area was mapped as a result of the field survey at the site (Figure 2 - Figure 7).

One native vegetation association (VA) was present within the Project Area:

VA1: Regenerating Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland +/- Acacia pycnantha understorey over native and exotic

groundcover.

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4.1.2. VA1 occurred across two patches near the northern extent of the Project Area, covering a total of 0.11

ha (Site map showing areas of proposed impact

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Figure 2. Native Vegetation Associations, Scattered trees, amenity vegetation and weeds along Long Valley Road in the

Project Area (Map 1 of 6).

& Figure 3). A Summary of VA1 is presented in Table 4.

The remainder of the Project Area consisted of planted native vegetation (Amenity), Exotic grassland / herbland and

scattered trees (Figure 4 - Figure 7).

Seventy-nine (79) scattered trees, consisting of four different native species were assessed using STAM (Table 5). The

Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis) was the most abundant tree species, with a smaller number of

Pink Gums restricted to the northern section of the Project Area (Figure 2). Small numbers of Golden Wattle (Acacia

pycnantha) and Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) were scattered across the Project Area. Larger trees

containing hollows were considered to provide suitable habitat for the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus

funerea whiteae) and Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). Photographs of all scattered trees are

provided in Attachment 3. Although Tree 201 has been proposed for removal, the impact to this tree will be on the

tree root zone. Where possible, this tree will be retained, unless deemed to be detrimentally impacted by the

construction.

Only seven native and sixteen exotic plant species were observed across both the BAM site, reflecting the small and

highly disturbed nature of the site. The presence of the State rare Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) contributed to a

higher conservation significance score for the site.

4.1.3. Details of the vegetation associates/scattered trees proposed to be impacted

Table 4. Summary of VA1.

Vegetation

Association

A1; Regenerating Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland +/- Acacia pycnantha understorey over

native and exotic groundcover

General

description Predominantly weedy understorey with some native trees, grasses and small shrubs.

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Threatened

species or

community

A desktop survey found several state listed fauna species which are likely to have preferred

habitat within this vegetation association:

EPBC Act

- Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) VU

NPW Act

- Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) R

- Carpet Python (Morelia spilota) R

- Eastern Shriketit (Falcunculus frontatus frontatus) R

- Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans) R

- Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) R

- Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) R

- White-winged Chough (Corcorax melanorhamphos) R

- Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus) V

No threatened ecological communities were observe in the Project Area

Landscape

context score 1.14

Vegetation

Condition

Score

18.98

Conservation

significance

score

1.12

Unit biodiversity

Score 24.23 Area (ha) 0.11

Total

biodiversity

Score

2.67

Table 5. Details of the scattered trees proposed to be impacted.

Tree

# Tree spp.

No. of

trees

Height

(m) Hollows

Diameter

(cm)

Canopy

dieback (%)

Biodiversity

Score

Photo

#

1 Eucalyptus fasciulosa 1 10.4 99 10 6.95 1

2 Acacia pycnantha 1 4 37 20 1.22 2

3 A. pycnantha 1 3.5 12 0 0.48 3

4 E. fasciulosa 1 10.5 33 20 2.59 4

5 E. fasciulosa 1 4.5 20 10 0.50 5

6 E. fasciulosa 1 22 10 0.25 6

7 E. fasciulosa 1 3.5 8 0 0.34 7

8 A. pycnantha 1 2.5 5 0 0.31 8

9 A. pycnantha 1 2.5 6 0 0.32 9

10 E. fasciulosa 1 12.0 12 20 4.43 10

11 E. fasciulosa 1 11.0 50 10 4.34 11

12 E. fasciulosa 1 12.0 65 10 5.88 12

13 E. fasciulosa 1 6.5 28 20 1.10 13

14 E. fasciulosa 1 9.0 58 10 4.29 14

15 E. fasciulosa 1 10.0 40 10 3.73 15

16 Eucalyptus camaldulenis

var camaldulenis

1 13 73 10 2.25 16

17 E. c. var camaldulenis 1 10 46 0 1.20 17




21 E. c. var camaldulenis 1 3.5 8 10 0.18 21








Page 20 of 41

Tree

# Tree spp.

No. of

trees

Height

(m) Hollows

Diameter

(cm)

Canopy

dieback (%)

Biodiversity

Score

Photo

#







35 E. fasciulosa 1 4.5 10 0 0.43 35

36 E. fasciulosa 1 11.0 50 20 4.08 36














50 Allocasuarina verticillata 1 2.0 3 0 0.20 50

51 A. verticillata 1 9.0 35 10 2.28 51

52 A. verticillata 1 2 4 0 0.21 52

53 A. verticillata 1 9 37 60 1.38 53

54 A. verticillata 1 8 30 70 0.56 54

55 E. fasciulosa 1 9 29 10 2.19 55






61 E. c. var camaldulenis 1 22 30 180 20 9.06 61


















201 E. c. var camaldulenis 1 17 2 142 5 6.46 201

Page 21 of 41

4.1.4. Site map showing areas of proposed impact



Page 22 of 41



Page 23 of 41



Page 24 of 41



Page 25 of 41



Page 26 of 41



Page 27 of 41

4.2. Threatened species assessment

4.2.1. Matters of National Environmental Significance

There are two matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) relevant to the Project Area:

The Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland (EPBC Act, Ramsar Convention).

Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland (PBGW) of South Australia (Critically Endangered).

The Project Area is approximately 10 km upstream of a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Wetland): The

Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland. A 'declared Ramsar wetland' is an area that has been designated

under Article 2 of the Ramsar Convention or declared by the Minister to be a declared Ramsar wetland under the EPBC

Act (DoTEE 2019a). The EPBC Act enhances the management and protection of Australia’s Ramsar Wetlands. However,

the proposed impact area is outside of the Ramsar Wetland boundary and largely outside riparian areas - it is therefore

not considered to have a significant impact on the listed Ramsar wetland.

The PMST report suggests that the PBGW threatened ecological community (TEC) is “likely to occur” within 5 km of the

Project Area. This community was listed as critically endangered under the EPBC Act in 2007, due to a severe decline

in distribution and ongoing degradation. The dominant tree species is Eucalyptus odorata, however, other species of

Eucalypt commonly co-occur. A grassy understorey is most often present, although some shrubs may exist such as

Bursaria spinosa (Sweet Bursaria) and Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle). The majority of remnants of this community

occur between Victor Harbor and Port Augusta (SA), spanning the mid-north and Adelaide regions, Mount Lofty Ranges

and parts of Yorke Peninsula. To qualify as the EPBC-listed community, patches must be at least 0.1 ha in size and meet

native species diversity criteria (DEWNR 2007). The vegetation community is not present in areas adjacent to the Project

Area as indicated by the SA vegetation mapping (NatureMaps 2020) and therefore, based on a desktop assessment,

the project is unlikely to impact on this community.

4.2.2. Threatened Flora and Fauna

Fauna

The desktop assessment identified one species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act known as likely to occur within

5 km the Project Area (Table 6):

Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying-fox) (Nationally VU, SA: R).

The Project Area is located approximately 40 km from the nearest Grey-headed Flying-fox (GHFF) camp, which is

located in the Adelaide Parklands, in Adelaide CBD. Therefore, the vegetation within the Project Area is unlikely to

constitute important breeding habitat as usage of trees by GHFFs decreases with distance from camps (DEW 2019).

However, GHFF may fly over the Project Area or briefly utilise large trees for foraging, feeding or related behaviour.

An additional 5 fauna species listed as threatened under the NPW Act were assessed as potentially occurring in the Project Area, consisting of 4 birds and one mammal (Table 6):

Zanda funerea whiteae (Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo) (SA: V);

Corcorax melanorhamphos (White-winged Chough) (SA: R);

Falco peregrinus (Peregrine Falcon) (SA: R);

Page 28 of 41

Falcunculus frontatus frontatus (Eastern Shriketit) (SA: R);

Neophema elegans elegans (Elegant Parrot) (SA: R); and

Trichosurus vulpecula (Common Brushtail Possum) (SA: R).

Table 6. Likelihood of occurrence of threatened fauna species identified in the desktop assessment. The data source and

threat levels are described in the table footer.

Species (common

name)

Conservation status

Data

source

Date

of last

record

Species known habitat

preferences

Likelihood of use

for habitat –

Comments NP&W

Act EPBC Act

Zanda funerea

whiteae

(Yellow-tailed Black

Cockatoo)

V 3 2017 Inhabits a variety of habitat

types, but favours eucalypt

woodland and pine

plantations. Small to large

flocks can be seen in these

areas (BirdLife Australia 2021).

Likely - suitable

habitat in Project

Area, species

observed flying over

Project Area during

field assessment,

recent records

within 5 km.

Corcorax

melanorhamphos

(White-winged

Chough)

R 3 2016 Found in open forests and

woodlands. They tend to

prefer the wetter areas, with

lots of leaf-litter, for feeding,

and available mud for nest

building (BirdLife Australia

2021)

Highly likely -

suitable habitat in

Project Area, recent

records within 5 km.

Falco peregrinus

(Peregrine Falcon)

R 3 2017 Habitats include rainforests to

the arid zone, and at most

altitudes, from the coast to

alpine areas. It requires

abundant prey and secure

nest sites, and prefers coastal

and inland cliffs or open

woodlands near water, and

may even be found nesting

on high city buildings

(BirdLife Australia 2021).

Possible - possibly

occurring

Falcunculus frontatus

frontatus

(Eastern Shriketit)

R 3 2017 Found in eucalypt forests and

woodlands, forested gullies

and along rivers in drier

areas. It can also be found in

rainforests. It is sometimes

seen in parks and gardens, on

farms with scattered trees,

and on pine plantations


Highly likely -

suitable habitat in



Morelia spilota

(Carpet Python)

R 3 2015 Prefers riparian vegetation

groups, and dry sclerophyll

forest with ground cover and

logs. Lives in hollows of large

River Red Gums and north-

Unlikely - no

preferred habitat

within Project Area.

Page 29 of 41

Species (common

name)

Conservation status

Data

source

Date

of last

record

Species known habitat

preferences

Likelihood of use

for habitat –

Comments NP&W

Act EPBC Act

facing cliffs along the Murray

River (DEH, 2008).

Neophema elegans

elegans

(Elegant Parrot)

R 3 2018 Inhabiting a wide variety of

habitats, including grasslands,

shrublands, mallee,

woodlands and thickets,

bluebush plains, heathlands,

saltmarsh and farmland


Highly likely -

suitable habitat in



Pteropus

poliocephalus

(Grey-headed Flying-

fox)

R VU 3 2020 Forests and woodlands

Likely – foraging,

feeding or related

behaviour likely to

occur within area

Trichosurus vulpecula

(Common Brushtail

Possum)

R 3 2020 Anywhere where trees with

suitable hollows occur,

including open forests and

woodlands but also urban

areas and cities. The species

can be common in urban

areas (Strahan, 1995).

Highly likely - as

there were hollows

present within the

Project Area

Source; 1- BDBSA, 2 - AoLA, 3 – NatueMaps 4 – Observed/recorded in the field, 5 - Protected matters search tool, 6 – others

NP&W Act; E= Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R= Rare

EPBC Act; Ex = Extinct, CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered; VU = Vulnerable

Flora

The desktop assessment identified five flora species listed as threatened under the NPW Act as potentially occurring

in the Project Area (Table 7):

Austrostipa densiflora (Fox-tail Spear-grass) (SA: R)

Bothriochloa macra (Red-leg Grass) (SA: R)

Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) (SA: R)

Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. viminalis (Manna Gum) (SA: R)

Mentha satureioides (Native Pennyroyal) (SA: R)

Of these, the Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) was deemed likely to occur and the Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis

ssp. viminalis) was deemed to possibly occur. The other three threatened flora species were deemed unlikely to occur

within the Project Area due to its highly degraded roadside location. The PMST search indicated that no additional

species are “known to occur” within 5 km of the Project Area (Table 7).

Page 30 of 41

Table 7. Likelihood of occurrence of threatened flora species identified in the desktop assessment. The data source and

threat levels are described in the table footer.

Species (common name)

Conservation

status Data

source

Date

of last

record

Species known

habitat

preferences

Likelihood of use

for habitat –

Comments NP&W

Act

EPBC

Act

Austrostipa densiflora

(Fox-tail Spear-grass)

R 3 2010 Temperate regions. Unlikely - species

not observed in

Project Area during

field assessment

Bothriochloa macra

(Red-leg Grass)

R 3 2002 Grows on a variety

of soil types in

humid areas but in

drier areas is

restricted to run-on

areas on clay or

loamy soils.

Unlikely - species

not observed in

Project Area during

field assessment

Eucalyptus fasciculosa

(Pink Gum)

R 3 2003 Grows in woodland

or as an emergent

low shrubland on

soil of low fertility.

Likely – species

observed in Project

Area during field

assessment.

Eucalyptus viminalis ssp.

viminalis

(Manna Gum)

R 3 2003 Widely distributed

and abundant in

the well-watered

areas of south-

eastern Australia.

Possible – species

could possibly

occur in Project

Area.

Mentha satureioides

(Native Pennyroyal)

R 3 2001 Banks of rivers and

creeks, open forests

and pastures,

especially on shale.

Unlikely - species

not observed in

Project Area during

field assessment

Source; 1- BDBSA, 2 - AoLA, 3 – NatureMaps 4 – Observed/recorded in the field, 5 - Protected matters search tool, 6 – others

NP&W Act; E= Endangered, V = Vulnerable, R= Rare

EPBC Act; Ex = Extinct, CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered; VU = Vulnerable

4.3. Cumulative impacts

When exercising a power or making a decision under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017, the NVC

must consider the potential cumulative impact, both direct and indirect, that is reasonably likely to result from a

proposed clearance activity.

The direct impact of the Project is the removal of 0.11 ha of native vegetation and 79 scattered trees.

Potential indirect impacts of the Project include:

Dust generation, which may impact surrounding vegetation; and

Noise generation, which may impact fauna species in the area.

Page 31 of 41

There is a potential that the Project will alter the hydrology (e.g. raised or lowered water table, flooding, impounding

water or reduced water supply) and impact of the condition or health of the native vegetation being retained in

surrounding areas.

4.4. Addressing the Mitigation Hierarchy

When exercising a power or making a decision under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation Regulations 2017, the NVC must

have regard to the mitigation hierarchy. The NVC will also consider, with the aim to minimize, impacts on biological

diversity, soil, water and other natural resources, threatened species or ecological communities under the EPBC Act or

listed species under the NP&W Act.

a) Avoidance – outline measures taken to avoid clearance of native vegetation

It is unlikely that clearance associated with the proposed overtaking lane can be avoided or located elsewhere. Four

alternative options were considered for the location of the overtaking lane, with vegetation clearance a key

consideration in determining the preferred location. Two sub-options were considered at the preferred location:

widening on the eastern side (the Project Area) and alternately widening on the western side. Although the eastern

side is a larger clearance area, much of this additional clearance area is exotic grassland or herb land. Additionally, the

eastern side has more planted vegetation and a large patch of woody exotic plants. For these reasons, the eastern side

was selected as the best option to reduce the impacts on native vegetation.

Moving the overtaking lane to another section of the road is not practically feasible and is unlikely to substantially

reduce the vegetation clearance impact.

b) Minimization – if clearance cannot be avoided, outline measures taken to minimize the extent, duration

and intensity of impacts of the clearance on biodiversity to the fullest possible extent (whether the impact

is direct, indirect or cumulative).

Road Design parameters have been reduced as much as practically possible to reduce the width of the proposed works

and reduce vegetation removal (i.e. steeping of batters and reducing shoulder widths). Where possible, vegetation

removal may be minimised by pruning rather than removing some of the trees on the edge of the Project Area, subject

to arborist assessment. Tree 201 has been included for removal as the area around the tree is being sealed which may

impact on the stability and health of the tree. Where possible, this tree will be retained, however this will be subject to

arborist assessment.

c) Rehabilitation or restoration – outline measures taken to rehabilitate ecosystems that have been

degraded, and to restore ecosystems that have been degraded, or destroyed by the impact of clearance

that cannot be avoided or further minimized, such as allowing for the re-establishment of the vegetation.

No onsite rehabilitation will occur with this clearance as roadsides are not secure locations for replanting due to the

potential for future construction and maintenance activities. To ensure the surrounding vegetation quality is

maintained, it is recommended that Declared and Environmental weed species (e.g. Olive, Bridal Creeper, etc.) are

controlled.

d) Offset – any adverse impact on native vegetation that cannot be avoided or further minimized should be

offset by the achievement of a significant environmental benefit that outweighs that impact.

Page 32 of 41

Any adverse impact on native vegetation or ecosystems that cannot be avoided or minimised should be offset by

implementing an SEB that outweighs that impact. Biodiversity offsets address any residual impacts after prevention

and mitigation measures have been implemented.

The NVC will only approve clearances if these steps have been fulfilled. Offsetting is only considered by the NVC when

a proponent has identified and documented appropriate measures to avoid and minimise negative impacts (direct or

indirect) on biodiversity. Biodiversity offsets are only appropriate for projects that have rigorously applied the

Mitigation Hierarchy to the fullest extent. Offsets must never be used to circumvent responsibilities to avoid and

minimise damage to biodiversity and the NVC will consider this when determining whether the clearance can proceed.

4.5. Principles of Clearance (Schedule 1, Native Vegetation Act

1991)

The Native Vegetation Council will consider Principles 1(b), 1(c) and 1(d) when assigning a level of Risk under Regulation

16 of the Native Vegetation Regulations. The Native Vegetation Council will consider all the Principles of clearance of

the Act as relevant, when considering an application referred under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act

2016.

Table 8. Assessment against the Principles of Clearance.

Principle of

clearance Considerations

Principle 1(b)

– significance

as a habitat

for wildlife

Relevant information

A total of 9 native bird species were recorded in the Project Area during the fauna assessment.

Only one species observed Zanda funerea whiteae (Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo) was a State listed

threatened fauna species. One invasive fauna species was also recorded, Oryctolagus cuniculus

(European Rabbit).

One EPBC listed threatened species was identified as likely occurring in the Project Area: Pteropus

poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying-fox).

Six State threatened fauna species were also assessed as possibly occurring within the Project Area

as they had recorded observations since 1995 within 5 km of the Project Area.

Patches;

Threatened Fauna Score – 0.08

Unit biodiversity Score – 24.23

Trees;

Fauna Habitat Score – 1.4

Biodiversity Score – various across 79 trees (between 0.12 - 9.06)

Assessment against the principles

Seriously at Variance

- All

Page 33 of 41

Moderating factors that may be considered by the NVC

Is the clearance likely to:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population;

Reduce the area of occupancy of the species;

Fragment an existing population into two or more populations;

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species;

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent

that the species is likely to decline;

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a threatened species becoming established in

the threatened species habitat; and Interfere with the recovery of the species.

Principle 1(c)

– plants of a

rare,

vulnerable or

endangered

species


There was one State threatened flora species recorded for the site, Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink

Gum).

Threatened Flora Score – 0.04


Seriously at Variance

- All


Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population;

Reduce the area of occupancy of the species;

Fragment an existing population into two or more populations;

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species;

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent

that the species is likely to decline, or;

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a threatened species becoming established in

the threatened species habitat; and

Interfere with the recovery of the species

Principle 1(d)

– the

vegetation

comprises the

whole or

part of a

plant

community

that is Rare,

Vulnerable or

endangered


No threatened communities under the EPBC Act or threatened ecosystems under the DEW

Provisional list of threatened ecosystems are present within the clearance area.

Threatened Community Score – n/a


Not at variance


Principles of Clearance (h-m) will be considered by comments provided by the local NRM Board or relevant Minister.

The Data Report should contain information on these principles where relevant and where sufficient information or

expertise is available.

4.6. Risk assessment

The level of risk associated with the application

Table 9. Summary of the level of risk associated with the application.

No. of trees 79

https://www.legislation.sa.gov.au/LZ/C/A/NATIVE%20VEGETATION%20ACT%201991/CURRENT/1991.16.UN.PDF

Page 34 of 41

Total

clearance

Area (ha) 0.11

Total biodiversity Score 132.06

Seriously at variance with principle

1(b), 1(c) or 1 (d) 1(b) and 1(c)

Risk assessment outcome Level 4

5. Clearance summary Clearance Area(s) Summary table

Blo

ck

Site

Spe

cie

s

div

ers

ity

sco

re

Thre

ate

ne

d

Eco

logi

cal

com

mu

nit

y

Sco

re

Thre

ate

ne

d

pla

nt

sco

re

Thre

ate

ne

d

fau

na

sco

re

UB

S

Are

a (h

a)

Tota

l

Bio

div

ers

ity

sco

re

Loss

fac

tor

Load

ings

Re

du

ctio

ns

SEB

Po

ints

req

uir

ed

SEB

pay

me

nt

Ad

min

Fe

e

A 1 6 1 0.4 0.8 24.23 0.11 2.67 1 2.80 $2,288.35 $125.86

Total 0.11 2.67 2.80 $2,288.35 $125.86

Scattered trees Summary table

Tree or Cluster ID

Number of trees

Fauna Habitat score

Threatened flora score

Biodiversity score

Loss factor

SEB Points required

SEB Payment (inc. admin)

1 1 1.4 0.3 6.95 1 7.29 $6,262.89

2 1 1.4 0 1.22 1 1.28 $1,095.51

3 1 1.4 0 0.48 1 0.51 $435.23

4 1 1.4 0.3 2.59 1 2.72 $2,338.31

5 1 1.4 0.3 0.50 1 0.53 $452.69

6 1 1.4 0.3 0.25 1 0.27 $228.20

7 1 1.4 0.3 0.34 1 0.36 $310.39

8 1 1.4 0 0.31 1 0.32 $277.80

9 1 1.4 0 0.32 1 0.33 $286.10

10 1 1.4 0.3 4.43 1 4.65 $3,994.89

11 1 1.4 0.3 4.34 1 4.56 $3,913.03

12 1 1.4 0.3 5.88 1 6.18 $5,305.63

13 1 1.4 0.3 1.10 1 1.15 $989.63

14 1 1.4 0.3 3.94 1 4.13 $3,549.91

15 1 1.4 0.3 3.73 1 3.92 $3,361.91

16 1 1.4 0 2.25 1 2.36 $2,029.42

17 1 1.4 0 1.20 1 1.26 $1,082.36

18 1 1.4 0 1.28 1 1.34 $1,153.74

19 1 1.4 0 0.50 1 0.53 $453.49

20 1 1.4 0 0.31 1 0.33 $280.12

Page 35 of 41

Tree or Cluster ID

Number of trees

Fauna Habitat score


Biodiversity score

Loss factor

SEB Points required


21 1 1.4 0 0.18 1 0.19 $166.08

22 1 1.4 0 2.45 1 2.57 $2,208.61

23 1 1.4 0 0.37 1 0.39 $336.89

24 1 1.4 0 0.12 1 0.13 $108.68

25 1 1.4 0 0.13 1 0.14 $119.89

26 1 1.4 0 2.04 1 2.14 $1,835.03

27 1 1.4 0 0.19 1 0.20 $170.59

28 1 1.4 0 0.33 1 0.35 $297.91

29 1 1.4 0 0.12 1 0.13 $109.43

30 1 1.4 0 0.51 1 0.53 $456.34

31 1 1.4 0 0.48 1 0.51 $433.84

32 1 1.4 0 0.55 1 0.58 $498.50

33 1 1.4 0 0.63 1 0.67 $571.78

34 1 1.4 0 1.06 1 1.11 $953.91

35 1 1.4 0.3 0.43 1 0.45 $385.24

36 1 1.4 0.3 4.08 1 4.28 $3,674.18

37 1 1.4 0 0.51 1 0.54 $461.00

38 1 1.4 0 0.30 1 0.32 $271.94

39 1 1.4 0 1.16 1 1.22 $1,044.25

40 1 1.4 0 0.32 1 0.34 $287.94

41 1 1.4 0 1.42 1 1.49 $1,277.92

42 1 1.4 0 0.32 1 0.33 $285.05

43 1 1.4 0 0.22 1 0.23 $200.36

44 1 1.4 0 1.00 1 1.05 $898.17

45 1 1.4 0 0.61 1 0.64 $550.95

46 1 1.4 0 0.25 1 0.26 $227.30

47 1 1.4 0 1.09 1 1.14 $982.96

48 1 1.4 0 0.24 1 0.25 $212.15

49 1 1.4 0 0.14 1 0.15 $128.83

50 1 1.4 0 0.20 1 0.21 $179.65

51 1 1.4 0 2.28 1 2.40 $2,059.40

52 1 1.4 0 0.21 1 0.22 $185.86

53 1 1.4 0 1.38 1 1.45 $1,244.88

54 1 1.4 0 0.56 1 0.59 $502.88

55 1 1.4 0.3 2.19 1 2.30 $1,972.12

56 1 1.4 0 1.13 1 1.19 $1,018.18

57 1 1.4 0 3.95 1 4.14 $3,558.49

58 1 1.4 0 0.15 1 0.15 $131.30

59 1 1.4 0 0.26 1 0.28 $236.52

60 1 1.4 0 0.19 1 0.20 $173.01

61 1 1.4 0 9.06 1 9.51 $8,166.16

62 1 1.4 0 0.25 1 0.27 $229.21

63 1 1.4 0 0.25 1 0.26 $226.29

64 1 1.4 0 0.33 1 0.35 $296.43

65 1 1.4 0 4.05 1 4.26 $3,654.73

66 1 1.4 0 3.61 1 3.79 $3,256.50

67 1 1.4 0 3.30 1 3.47 $2,977.18

68 1 1.4 0 1.35 1 1.42 $1,219.49

Page 36 of 41

Tree or Cluster ID

Number of trees

Fauna Habitat score


Biodiversity score

Loss factor

SEB Points required


69 1 1.4 0 3.72 1 3.90 $3,352.74

70 1 1.4 0 1.26 1 1.33 $1,138.61

71 1 1.4 0 1.07 1 1.13 $968.70

72 1 1.4 0 1.37 1 1.44 $1,235.72

73 1 1.4 0 1.92 1 2.02 $1,731.14

74 1 1.4 0 0.45 1 3.74 $3,212.04

75 1 1.4 0 0.99 1 1.04 $894.32

76 1 1.4 0 0.98 1 1.03 $881.88

77 1 1.4 0 4.13 1 4.34 $3,723.12

78 1 1.4 0 3.67 1 3.86 $3,312.56

201 1 1.4 0 6.46 1 6.79 $5,827.18

Total 79 127.02 133.38 $115,068.59

Totals summary table

Total Biodiversity score

Total SEB points required SEB Payment Admin Fee Total Payment

Application 132.06 132.19 $111,358.11 $6,124.69 $117,482.80

Economies of Scale Factor 0.5

Rainfall (mm) 620

6. Significant Environmental

Benefit A Significant Environmental Benefit (SEB) is required for approval to clear under Division 5 of the Native Vegetation

Regulations 2017. The NVC must be satisfied that as a result of the loss of vegetation from the clearance that an SEB

will result in a positive impact on the environment that is over and above the negative impact of the clearance.

ACHIEVING AN SEB

Indicate how the SEB will be achieved by ticking the appropriate box and providing the associated information:

Establish a new SEB Area on land owned by the proponent.

Use SEB Credit that the proponent has established.

Apply to have SEB Credit assigned from another person or body.

Apply to have an SEB to be delivered by a Third Party.

Page 37 of 41

Pay into the Native Vegetation Fund.

PAYMENT SEB

If a proponent proposes to achieve the SEB by paying into the Native Vegetation Fund, summary information must be

provided on the amount required to be paid and the manner of payment:

GHD proposes to achieve the SEB by paying into the Native Vegetation Fund. The total SEB payment required for the

clearance of 0.11 ha of native vegetation and 79 scattered trees is $117,482.80, which includes an administration fee

of $6,124.69 including GST.

7. References Birdlife Australia (2020). Online resource. Retrieved from: http://birdlife.org.au/bird-profile/hooded-robin [Verified 17

August 2020].

Croft SJ, Pedler JA, Milne TI (2007) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Northern Agricultural & Yorke Peninsula

Regions. Nature Conservation Society of South Australia, Adelaide.

Croft SJ, Pedler JA, Milne TI (2008a) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Eyre Peninsula Region. Nature

Conservation Society of South Australia, Adelaide.

Croft SJ, Pedler JA, Milne TI (2008b) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Southern Mt Lofty Ranges Region.

Nature Conservation Society of South Australia, Adelaide.

Croft SJ, Pedler JA, Milne TI (2009) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Murray Darling Basin Region. Nature


Cutten JL, Hodder MW (2002) Scattered tree clearance assessment in South Australia: streamlining, guidelines for

assessment and rural industry extension. Biodiversity Assessment Services, Department of Water, Land and

Biodiversity Conservation, Adelaide.

DEH (in progress 2005) Provisional List of Threatened Ecosystems of South Australia, Department for Environment and

Heritage, now Department for Environment and Water.

Department for Environment and Water (DEW) (2019). Grey-headed Flying-foxes in South Australia. Natural Resources

Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges, Government of South Australia. Accessed at:

https://www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges/plants-and-animals/native-plants-animals-

and-biodiversity/native-animals/mammals/grey-headed-flying-fox/grey-headed-flying-foxes-south-aust

Department for Environment and Water (DEW) (2020) NatureMaps. Available at:

http://data.environment.as.gov.au/NatureMaps/Pages/default.aspx [Accessed 7 July 2021].

Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) (2020) Protected Matters Search Tool. Available at:

https://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected-matters-search-tool [Accessed 7 July 2021].

DEW (2017) Guide for calculating a Significant Environmental Benefit Under the Native Vegetation Act 1991 and Native

Vegetation Regulations 2017, Department for Environment and Water

http://birdlife.org.au/bird-profile/hooded-robin

https://www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges/plants-and-animals/native-plants-animals-and-biodiversity/native-animals/mammals/grey-headed-flying-fox/grey-headed-flying-foxes-south-aust

https://www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges/plants-and-animals/native-plants-animals-and-biodiversity/native-animals/mammals/grey-headed-flying-fox/grey-headed-flying-foxes-south-aust

http://data.environment.as.gov.au/NatureMaps/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected-matters-search-tool

Page 38 of 41

DIT (formerly DPTI) (2020). Vegetation Removal Policy. Standard Operating Procedure under the Native vegetation Act

1991. Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure. Adelaide.

DotEE (2019a) Retrieved from https://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/what-is-protected/wetlands, Department of the

Environment and Energy, Government of Australia.

DotEE (2019b) Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) (s266B) Conservation

Advice for Subtropical and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh, Department of the Environment and Energy,

Government of Australia.

Milne TI, Croft T (2012) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Benchmark Communities of the South East. Nature


Milne TI, McCallum B (2012) Bushland Condition Monitoring Manual – Benchmark Communities of Kangaroo Island.

Nature Conservation Society of South Australia, Adelaide.

Native Vegetation Council (NVC) (2020a) Bushland Assessment Manual July 2020. Native Vegetation Council,

Adelaide. Available at: https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/native-vegetation/clearing/vegetation-

assessments.

Native Vegetation Council (NVC) (2020b) Rangelands Assessment Manual July 2020. Native Vegetation Council,


assessments.

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assessments.

https://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/what-is-protected/wetlands

https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/native-vegetation/clearing/vegetation-assessments






Page 39 of 41

8. Appendices Appendix 1. Fauna Species List recorded in the Project Area.

Species name Common name

Conservation status Introduced

species Aus SA

Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Zanda funerea whiteae Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo V

Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike

Corvus mellori Little Raven

Eolophus roseicapilla Galah

Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater

Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit (European Rabbit) Y

Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater

Platycercus elegans Crimson Rosella

Zosterops lateralis Silvereye

Appendix 2. Flora Species List recorded in the Project Area, including those recorded in BAM site A1.


Conservation status Weed

species Site A1

Project Area

Aus SA

Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood

Acacia paradoxa Kangaroo Thorn

Acacia pycnantha Golden Wattle

Acaena echinata Sheep's Burr

Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak

Asparagus asparagoides f. Bridal Creeper Y

Asphodelus fistulosus Onion Weed Y

Astroloma humifusum Native Cranberry

Austrostipa sp. Spear-grass

Avena barbata Bearded Oat Y

Brassica sp. Brassica weed Y

Bromus diandrus Great Brome Y

Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu Y

Cynodon dactylon var. Couch Y

Cytisus proliferus Tree Lucerne/ Tagasaste Y

Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot Y

Enneapogon nigricans Black-head Grass

Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. River Red Gum

Eucalyptus fasciculosa Pink Gum R

Eucalyptus grandis #N/A Y

Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. South Australian Blue Gum

Foeniculum vulgare Fennel Y

Page 40 of 41


Conservation status Weed

species Site A1

Project Area

Aus SA

Fraxinus angustifolia ssp. angustifolia Desert Ash

Y

Fumaria capreolata White-flower Fumitory Y

Gomphocarpus cancellatus Broad-leaf Cotton-bush Y

Lepidium africanum Common Peppercress Y

Limonium sp. Sea-lavender Y

Malva parviflora Small-flower Marshmallow Y

Melaleuca armillaris ssp. armillaris Bracelet Honey-myrtle

Y

Olea europaea ssp. Olive Y

Piptatherum miliaceum Rice Millet Y

Plantago lanceolata Plantain Y

Polygonum sp. Wireweed Y

Populus alba White Poplar Y

Pteridium esculentum ssp. esculentum Bracken Fern

Rosa sp. Wild Rose/Briar Y

Rubus fruticosus aggregate Blackberry Y

Rumex brownii Slender Dock

Rytidosperma sp. Wallaby-grass

Scabiosa atropurpurea Pincushion Y

Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle Y

Trifolium angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover Y

Ulex europaeus Gorse Y

Page 41 of 41

EBS Ecology

112 Hayward Avenue

Torrensville, SA 5031

www.ebsecology.com.au

t. 08 7127 5607

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