Bendigo Residential Investigations Desktop assessment of environmental issues

Transcription

1 Bendigo Residential Investigations Desktop assessment of environmental issues Prepared for SED 20 September 2013

2 Biosis offices AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Document information Report to: SED Canberra Floor 1, Unit 3, 38 Essington Street Mitchell, ACT 2911 Phone: (02) Fax: (03) NEW SOUTH WALES Sydney Unit 14, Power Avenue Alexandria NSW 2015 Prepared by: Biosis project no.: Matthew Gibson File name: Bendigo.Desktop.DRA docx Citation: Biosis Bendigo Residential Investigations Desktop assessment of environmental issues. Report for SED. Author: Gibson, M. Biosis Pty Ltd, Ballarat Office. Project no Document control Phone: (02) Fax: (02) Version Internal reviewer Date issued Wollongong 8 Tate Street Wollongong NSW 2500 Draft version 01 JM 23/09/2013 Phone: (02) Fax: (02) wollongong@biosis.com.au QUEENSLAND Brisbane Suite 4 First Floor, 72 Wickham Street Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 Phone: (07) Fax: (07) brisbane@biosis.com.au Acknowledgements Biosis acknowledges the contribution of the following people and organisations in undertaking this study: Nick Byrne SED (Bendigo) VICTORIA Ballarat 506 Macarthur Street Ballarat VIC 3350 Phone: (03) Fax: (03) ballarat@biosis.com.au Melbourne (Head Office) 38 Bertie Street Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Phone: (03) Fax: (03) melbourne@biosis.com.au Wangaratta 16 Templeton Street Wangaratta VIC 3677 Phone: (03) Fax: (03) wangaratta@biosis.com.au Biosis Pty Ltd This document is and shall remain the property of Biosis Pty Ltd. The document may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of the Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited. Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting i

3 Contents 1 Introduction Policy Considerations Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Planning and Environment Act Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines Site specific notes Big Hill Simpsons Road Wicks Road Ravenswood...Error! Bookmark not defined. 1.3 References... 9 Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting ii

4 1 Introduction This report contains text to be combined with the overall report being compiled by SED Advisory. 1.1 Policy Considerations Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) applies to developments and associated activities that have the potential to significantly impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) protected under the Act. Matters of NES include World Heritage Properties, National Heritage Places, Wetlands of International Importance, threatened ecological communities, threatened species and migratory species. Any projects having the potential to impact upon matters of NES must be referred to the Department of the Environment for approval. Several options are available to the Minister, including approval not required, approval subject to conditions, declaration of the project as a 'Controlled Action' or rejection of the project. Key matters of NES potentially impacted by residential development within the Bendigo area are: Threatened communities: Buloke Woodlands of the Riverina and Murray Darling Depression Bioregions Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia White-Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland Threatened fauna species: Regent Honeyeater Swift Parrot Growling Grass Frog Golden Sun Moth Pink-tailed Worm-lizard Striped Legless Lizard Threatened flora species: River Swamp Wallaby Grass McIvor Spider-orchid, Greencomb Spider-orchid and Candy Spider-orchid Spiral Sun-orchid Spiny Rice-flower Clover Glycine Listed migratory species: Several terrestrial and marine migratory species, some of which are also listed as threatened. The majority of these species are wetland dependent, and are unlikely to be adversely affected by residential development if significant wetlands and drainage lines can be protected and enhanced. Terrestrial Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 1

5 migratory species move through the area, temporarily utilising habitat. Maintenance of linkages is particularly important for migratory species Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 The Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) is the key piece of Victorian legislation for the conservation of threatened species and communities and for the management of potentially threatening processes. Under the FFG Act a permit is required from DEPI to 'take' protected flora species from public land. A permit is generally not required for removal of protected flora from private land. Authorisation under the FFG Act is required to collect, kill, injure or disturb listed fish. The FFG Act applies primarily to public land including roadsides. Residential developments have potential to impact upon roadside vegetation due to road widening and construction or modification of intersections. Impacts of developments upon listed communities and protected flora species within roadsides must be considered in development applications. The focus sites potentially support three listed communities: Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community Creekline Grassy Woodland (Goldfields) Community Grey Box Buloke Grassy Woodland Community Key FFG listed fauna species potentially occurring with study areas includes: Brown Toadlet Brush-tailed Phascogale Hooded Robin Barking Owl Crested Bellbird Diamond Firetail Swift Parrot Powerful Owl Pink-tailed Worm-Lizard Grey-headed Flying Fox Key FFG listed flora species potentially occurring with study areas includes: Buloke McIvor Spider-orchid Bendigo Spider-orchid Dainty Phebalium Spiny Rice-flower Whipstick Westringia Planning and Environment Act 1987 The Planning and Environment Act 1987 controls the planning and development of land in Victoria, and provides for the development of planning schemes for all municipalities. As part of the planning process regard needs to be given to Action Statements that have been produced under the FFG Act. The Planning Scheme defines native vegetation as Plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses (Clause 72). Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 2

6 Clause of the State Planning Policy Framework Clause (Native Vegetation Management) requires that planning must consider as relevant Victoria s Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines. Clause requires a planning permit to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation including dead native vegetation. DEPI will generally be a referral authority, except in cases where vegetation clearance is very minor and assessed as 'low risk'. The need for a permit to remove native vegetation may also be triggered by overlays within the City of Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme. The provisions of the following overlays apply to one or more of the focus sites: Environmental Significance Overlay #1 (ESO1) - Watercourse protection Environmental Significance Overlay #2 (ESO2) - Groundwater recharge protection area Vegetation Protection Overlay #1 (VPO1) - Wildlife Corridor Protection Vegetation Protection Overlay #1 (VPO2) - Significant Vegetation Vegetation Protection Overlay #1 (VPO3) - Roadside Remnant Vegetation Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) Significant Landscape Overlay #1 (SLO1) Bush Garden and Semi-Bush Residential Areas Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines The Guidelines are incorporated into the Victoria Planning Provisions and all planning schemes in Victoria. (DEPI 2013). The purpose of the Guidelines is to guide how impacts to biodiversity should be considered when assessing a permit application to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation. Where a development seeks to remove native vegetation and as such an application will need to be made under clause of the City of Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation. Within the application proponents must state (Clause ) its response to the three step approach to No Net Loss that have been taken to: To avoid adverse impacts, particularly through the removal of native vegetation clearance, where possible. If impacts cannot be avoided, to minimise impacts of the removal of native vegetation through appropriate consideration in planning processes and expert input to project design and/or management. Identify appropriate offset options for the loss of native vegetation, if required. A detailed flora and fauna assessment to establish the extent, distribution and quality of native vegetation within the study areas would need to be undertaken. Determining the risk-based pathway To determine the risk based pathway for the permit application, two factors are considered: the location and the extent of the vegetation to be removed. For applications that propose to remove both remnant patch vegetation and scattered trees, the extent of scattered trees is calculated using the standard extent multiplier and added to the extent of remnant patch vegetation, to determine the overall extent to be considered when determining the risk-based pathway. Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 3

7 1.2 The current assessment and importance The current assessment is based entirely on a desktop assessment of each site and, where available, existing relevant assessments. The Biosis Research (2005) assessment was detailed but is now somewhat dated. The Ecology Consultants (2013) and Cheers and Cheers (2006) assessments are preliminary only and contain no detailed information. Based on the current assessment, all sites support native vegetation to varying degrees. However, the quality of the vegetation and the likely or actual presence of EPBC Act or FFG Act listed species or communities cannot be determined without field inspection. The potential for development of the respective sites is likely to be determined by the quality of the vegetation and habitat on each of the sites and, importantly, the significance of the site in a wider regional context. Sites that retain vegetation and habitat that is contiguous with surrounding areas, for example, will generally be more important than sites that retain isolated vegetation remnants as they probably provide fauna movement corridors within the regional context. The Wicks Road and, White Hills sites appear to meet this criteria while only portions of Simpsons Road, Big Hill and Ravenswood sites support native vegetation so are unlikely to be as important as fauna corridors. Sites that retain good quality vegetation will generally be more important than those that support low quality vegetation both as fauna habitat and as an intrinsic biodiversity value. However, sites that support EPBC listed species or communities may also be important even if the vegetation in which they are located is poor quality. The relative importance and limitations to development of each of the sites can only be fully determined following site inspections. The following sections detail the context, native vegetation and potential occurrence of significant species and communities at each of the study sites. This assessment is based on available desktop information, and field inspections are required to verify site conditions. 1.3 Site specific notes Big Hill Context The Big Hill site is a large and complex site located between Lockwood South and Big Hill. The site is to the south of a large section of Greater Bendigo National Park, and the area to the south is predominantly cleared farmland with scattered trees and patches of remnant vegetation. Previous assessments Biosis has undertaken a detailed assessment of the flora and fauna of the Big Hill site (Biosis Research 2005). It is noted, however, that the Biosis study is now approaching 10 years of age and that the currents site conditions are unknown. EVCs The site supports extensive areas of cleared land with scattered trees, mostly in the south, and remnant vegetation in the northern half. Ecological Vegetation Classes present include: Heathy dry forest Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 4

8 Hillcrest Herb-rich woodland Grassy dry forest Grassy woodland Aquatic features Several constructed dams exist within the property but no permanent named streams are present. EPBC and FFG implications EPBC species: Swift Parrot is likely to forage on winter flowering eucalypts within the site. The Regent Honeyeater is now considered a rare visitor to the Bendigo area. The Pink-tailed Worm-lizard was targeted by Biosis Research (2005) but not found, it is considered unlikely to be present this far south of the known population near Mandurang. Areas of Grassy Woodland EVC may correspond with the EPBC listed community White-Box Yellow Box Blakely's Red Gum grassy woodland. FFG species: Hooded Robin and Brush-tailed Phascogale are likely to utilise habitat within the area FFG communities: Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community; Creekline Grassy Woodland Planning scheme implications The whole is zoned: Farming Zone (FZ). Overlays: ESO1 (Watercourse Protection): Along several gullies within the site. VPO2 (Significant vegetation): Northern portions of the site, bordering the National Park. EMO (Erosion Management): Part Key ecological considerations The site contains extensive areas of remnant vegetation in the northern section. The site is located south of a large section of Greater Bendigo National Park, and potentially at risk from fires originating further north. Development of northern sections of the site may require increased fuel reduction burning within the National Park, which may impact upon biodiversity values Simpsons Road Context The site is mostly cleared site, with some areas of remnant vegetation. Extensive areas of Bendigo Regional Park and Greater Bendigo National Park are located to the North. To the south, there are a mixture of current land uses including remnant vegetation around Jackass Flat, a Golf Course and existing and new residential development. Previous assessments None known. EVCs Box Ironbark Forest; Alluvial Terraces Herb-rich Woodland / Creekline Grassy Woodland Mosaic. Aquatic features Eaglehawk Creek. White Horse Gully. One Eye Gully EPBC and FFG implications EPBC species: Very close to known population of pink-tailed worm lizard. Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 5

9 FFG communities: Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community Planning scheme implications The whole is zoned: Farming Zone (FZ). Overlays: BMO: Part ESO1 (Watercorse Protection): Eaglehawk Creek. EMO (Erosion Management): Part Key ecological considerations Potential habitat for Pink-tailed Worm-lizard. Increased residential development within the area may result in pressure to intensify control burning within adjacent areas of Bendigo Regional Park and Greater Bendigo National Park to the North, however this may already be required due to the existing residential developments around Jackass Flat Wicks Road Context Potentially an important corridor area allowing for movement of wildlife from north to south. Note wildlife would also need to cross the Calder Highway. Extensive remnant vegetation to the north between Maiden Gully and Long Gully (Bendigo Regional Park, Specimen Hill Bushland Reserve and several other small reserves/public land). Vegetation to the south and west links to a very extensive area of Bendigo Regional Park. High Density Development of this area would potentially close the gap between Maiden Gully and West Bendigo. Previous assessments Preliminary assessment by Cheers and Cheers (2006). Additional preliminary assessment of issues and options by Ecology Consultants (2013). EVCs Box Ironbark Forest covers most of the site. Aquatic features Several minor drainage lines and dams. EPBC and FFG implications EPBC species: Regent Honeyeater may be a rare visitor to the area. The Swift Parrot is likely to forage on winter flowering eucalypts during their annual winter migration to the mainland. The Greyheaded Flying Fox may forage on flowering eucalypts and nearby gardens. The Pink-tailed Wormlizard is considered unlikely to be present. EPBC communities: Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) grassy woodlands and derived native grasslands of south-eastern Australia FFG species: Brown Toadlet, Barking Owl, Brush-tailed Phascogale, Crested Bellbird FFG communities: Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community Other significant species: Ausfelds Wattle, Dwarf Cassinia Planning scheme implications The whole is zoned: Farming Zone (FZ). Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 6

10 Overlays: BMO (Bushfire Management) : Part ESO1 (Watercourse Protection): Small areas along drainage lines on western edge of site. ESO2 (Groundwater Recharge Protection Area): Entire site VPO1 (Wildlife Corridor Protection): Entire site VPO2 (Significant vegetation): Entire site Key ecological considerations The site supports extensive areas of remnant vegetation and potential habitat for several species, particularly Ausfelds Wattle, Swift Parrot and Brush-tailed Phascogale. The site is likely to function as a wildlife corridor, allowing movement between large blocks of remnant vegetation. High density residential development would impact upon the value of the area as a corridor. Some lower density development, allowing retention of some vegetation, may be suitable, however retention of native vegetation would be very difficult due to the requirement to manage vegetation for bushfire risk minimization Ravenswood Context The site is located south of Kangaroo Flat, in a semi-cleared landscape. It adjoins the Big Hill section of Greater Bendigo National Park to the North. It is mostly semi-cleared farmland to the south and some low density residential development to the west. Previous studies None known EVCs Grassy Woodland (potential EPBC listed White Box Yellow Box Blakely's Red Gum grassy woodland), Granitic Hills Woodland, Creekline Grassy Woodland. Aquatic features Buckeye Creek and Bullock Creek pass through the area. Several dams. EPBC and FFG implications FFG communities: Creekline Grassy Woodland, Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community. Planning scheme implications The whole is zoned: Farming Zone (FZ). Overlays: BMO (Bushfire Management): Not within site. Applies to NP area. ESO1 (Watercourse Protection): Occurs along several drainage lines. VPO2 (Significant Vegetation): Eastern section of the site, along the boundary of the national park. EMO (Erosion Management): Covers part of site to south and east. Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 7

11 Key ecological considerations The site is located south of a large section of Greater Bendigo National Park, and potentially at risk from fires originating further north. Development of northern sections of the site may require increased fuel reduction burning within the National Park, which may impact upon biodiversity values. Most of the site is cleared, however remnant vegetation and scattered trees within the area are likely to be used by the Swift Parrot. Development should aim to retain native vegetation where possible Lockwood Road Context The site is located on the interface between built up areas of Kangaroo Flat and bushland to the west. It is mostly cleared, with some areas of remnant native vegetation and scattered trees. Previous studies None known EVCs Box Ironbark Forest, Alluvial Terraces Herb Rich Woodland/Creekline Grassy Woodland Mosaic. Aquatic features At least two dams. Two minor drainage lines that appear to drain into Bendigo Creek. EPBC and FFG implications EPBC species: Swift Parrot FFG communities: Creekline Grassy Woodland, Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community Planning scheme implications The whole is zoned: Farming Zone (FZ). Overlays: BMO (Bushfire Management): South eastern property (214 Lockwood Road) only. ESO1 (Watercourse Protection): Occurs along several drainage lines. Key ecological considerations This is a relatively small site close to some existing high density residential development. Development should aim to provide for bushfire protection within the site, rather than requiring increased management of remnant vegetation surrounding the site White Hills Context Located in Northern Bendigo, in the interface between residential and bushland areas around Jackass Flat. Previous studies None known EVCs Grassy Woodland (potential EPBC listed White Box Yellow Box Blakely's Red Gum grassy woodland), Creekline Grassy Woodland near Bendigo Creek. Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 8

12 Aquatic features Bendigo creek borders the area to the east. Ironstone Reservoir near western boundary. Several small dams. EPBC and FFG implications FFG communities: Creekline Grassy Woodland, Victorian Temperate Woodland Bird Community Planning scheme implications The site is a mixture of zones: Low Density Residential Zone (LDRZ), Farming Zone (FZ) and Residential Zone 1 (R1Z). Overlays: ESO1 (Watercourse Protection): Occurs along gully. VPO2 (Wildlife Corridor Protection): Part of the area (western) SLO1 (Bush Garden and Semi-Bush Residential Areas): Western portion of site. Key ecological considerations The site supports appears to be relatively disturbed (cleared), but does support some remnant vegetation which may require management for bushfire protection. The level of existing development in the area would suggest that this site has less biodiversity constraints than some of the other sites considered in this assessment. 1.4 References Biosis Research Flora, fauna and Net Gain assessment of a proposed development at Belvoir Park Road, Bendigo, Victoria. Report for Contour Design Australia Pty Ltd. Author: Miller, J., Venosta, M. and Brown. L. Cheers and Cheers Ecological Assessment with Net Gain of a proposed development site Corner of Kronks Rd and Calder Hwy Maiden Gully. Report for Cahills Barristers & Solicitors. Ecology Consultants Greater Residential Development Strategy Review: Ecological Issues and Options for 7 Wicks road, Maiden Gully. Report for maiden Gully Nominees Pty Ltd. NCCMA Native Vegetation Plan Biosis 2013 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 9