Construction Biodiversity Management Plan€¦ · CAQMP Construction Air Quality Management Plan CBMP Construction Biodiversity Management Plan CCAMP Construction Compound and Ancillary

Construction Biodiversity Management Plan Bodangora Wind Farm

16-415 Final 1

Construction Biodiversity Management Plan

Bodangora Wind Farm

JUNE 2017


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Document Verification

Project Title: Bodangora Wind Farm

Construction Biodiversity Management Plan

Project Contractor: CATCON Project Number: 16-415 Project File Name: Bodangora Wind Farm CBMP Revision Date Prepared by (name) Reviewed by (name) Approved by (name)

Draft v1 23/01/2017 J Murphy Erwin Budde Draft v1.1 7/4/2017 M Sutherland Nick Graham-Higgs Nick Graham-Higgs Draft v1.2 4/06/2017 J Murphy M Sutherland Nick Graham-Higgs Draft v2 4/06/2017 J Murphy M Sutherland Nick Graham-Higgs Draft v3 19/06/2017 M Sutherland Nick Graham-Higgs Nick Graham-Higgs

Final v1.0 28/06/2017 M Sutherland Nick Graham-Higgs Nick Graham-Higgs

Plan Control

The latest version of this plan will be available on the electronic database for the Project for all Project personnel. Distribution of the plan will be to those detailed in the distribution listing below. This distribution will be by ‘hard copy’ or electronically via email.

Copy Number Issued To Date Name 1 Department of Planning and Environment 2 CATCON Project Manager 3 Infigen Project Manager 4 Environmental Representative 5 Site Environmental Manager 6 TransGrid Project Manager

Change No. Text Change Date 1.

Record each change to the Final document in the table above.

NGH Environmental prints all documents on environmentally sustainable paper including paper made from bagasse (a by-product of sugar production) or recycled paper.

NGH Environmental is a registered trading name of NGH Environmental Pty Ltd; ACN: 124 444 622. ABN: 31 124 444 622


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CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 CONTEXT ..............................................................................................................................................1

1.2 BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................................................2

1.3 CONSULTATION ....................................................................................................................................2

1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS OVERVIEW .....................................................................2

2 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 3

2.1 PURPOSE OF THIS CBMP ......................................................................................................................3

2.2 OBJECTIVES ..........................................................................................................................................3

2.3 TARGETS ...............................................................................................................................................3

3 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................... 4

3.1 RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES ..........................................................................................4

4 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS AND IMPACTS .............................................................................. 10

4.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT .............................................................................................. 10

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS ............................................................................................................... 12

4.3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES .............................................................................................................. 15

4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE CLEARING ............................................................................................................ 15

4.5 ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS ...................................................................................................................... 16

5 REHABILITATION AND REVEGETATION .................................................................................... 16

5.1 RIPPING AND TOPSOILING ................................................................................................................ 17

5.2 DRY SOWING ..................................................................................................................................... 17

5.3 HYDROMULCHING AND HYDROSEEDING.......................................................................................... 17

5.4 OPEN DRAINS AND BATTERS’ STEEPER THAN 2:1 ............................................................................. 18

5.5 MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................................. 18

5.6 SOWING AND FERTILISER RATE ......................................................................................................... 18

5.7 REUSE OF ROCK AND COARSE WORDY DEBRIS (CWD) ..................................................................... 19

6 FLORA AND FAUNA MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES ........................................... 20

6.1 CONSTRAINTS MAPS ......................................................................................................................... 26

7 COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................. 26

7.1 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................... 26

7.2 TRAINING .......................................................................................................................................... 26

7.3 INSPECTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 26

7.4 AUDITING .......................................................................................................................................... 27


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7.5 REPORTING ........................................................................................................................................ 27

8 REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT ................................................................................................. 27

8.1 CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT .......................................................................................................... 27

8.2 CBMP UPDATE AND AMENDMENT ................................................................................................... 27

APPENDIX A PRE-CLEARING CHECKLIST ....................................................................................... A-1

APPENDIX B TREE CLEARING PROCEDURE ................................................................................... B-3

APPENDIX C VEGETATION CLEARANCE PROCEDURE .................................................................... C-6

APPENDIX D VEGETATION CLEARANCE REGISTER ........................................................................ D-1

APPENDIX E FAUNA HANDLING PROCEDURE .............................................................................. E-1

APPENDIX F UNEXPECTED THREATENED SPECIES FIND PROCEDURE ............................................ F-1

APPENDIX G REMOVAL OF REPTILE HABITAT PROCEDURE ........................................................... G-2

APPENDIX H WEED MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE ......................................................................... H-3

APPENDIX I PESTICIDE APPLICATION RECORD ............................................................................ H-8

APPENDIX J WORKING CLOSE TO BOUNDARY PROCEDURE .......................................................... J-9

APPENDIX K CONSTRAINTS MAPPING ......................................................................................... K-1

APPENDIX L CBMP AGENCY CONSULTATION ...............................................................................L-1

Tables

Table 3-1 Location of information in this plan addressing the requirements of Conditions of Approval. ..... 4

Table 3-2 Location of information in this plan addressing the commitments listed in the EA. ...................... 8

Table 4-1 Identified Plant Community Types (PCTs) recorded in project area. ............................................ 11

Table 4-2 Indicative vegetation removal by vegetation class, based on design as of May 2017. ................ 16

Table 6-1: Suggested Introduced pasture species and rates for rehabilitation. ........................................... 18

Table 5-2: Suggested native pasture species and rates for rehabilitation.................................................... 18

Table 6-1 Biodiversity management and mitigation measures. ................................................................... 20


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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS AHIMS Aboriginal Heritage Management Information System

ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council

API Aerial Photo Interpretation

ARA Appropriate regulatory authority

ARI Average recurrence interval

ARR Australian rainfall and runoff

AS Australian Standard

BBAMP Bird and Bat Adaptive Management Program

BWFPL Bodangora Wind Farm Pty Ltd (Proponent)

CATCON CATCON Civil & Allied Technical Construction Pty Ltd

CAQMP Construction Air Quality Management Plan

CBMP Construction Biodiversity Management Plan

CCAMP Construction Compound and Ancillary Facility Management Plan

CCC Community Consultation Committee

CO Carbon monoxide

CoA Consolidated Conditions of Approval, Modification 2

CCR Construction Compliance Report

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

CHMP Construction Heritage Management Plan

CNVMP Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan

CTAMP Construction Traffic and Access Management Plan

CLM Act Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 (NSW)

Consortium EPC Contract Partnership between CATCON and GE, where both parties are signatories to the EPC Contract. CATCON assumes Lead Contractor role. GE are responsible for supply of towers and turbines. CATCON are responsible for the remainder of works including civil, electrical, substation and installation of towers and turbines.

CSWMP Construction Soil and Water Management Plan

CWD Coarse woody debris

dB(A) decibels “A” weighted

DECC NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (Now EPA)

DRC Dubbo Regional Council (incorporating Wellington Council)

DPE (NSW) Department of Planning and Environment

EEC Endangered ecological community EA Environmental Assessment, and Modification Reports EIAR Environmental Impact Audit Report EMS Environmental Management System Environmental Auditor

A person with tertiary qualifications, relevant specialist knowledge and experience, and training and experience in verification and/or auditing.

EPA Environment Protection Authority (Previously DECCW and/or OEH)


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EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW)

EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwth)

EPL Environment Protection Licence

ER Environmental Representative, reporting to DPE (CoA – E19)

ERSED Erosion and Sediment

EWMS Environmental Work Methods Statement (or Safe Work Method Statement)

ESCP Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (aka PESCP)

FM Act Fisheries Management Act 1994 (NSW)

GE GE General Electric International Inc

GEDO Greenhouse and Energy Data Officer

GHG Greenhouse gas

GWh Gigawatt hours

ha Hectares

HSE Advisor Health, Safety, and Environment Advisor

ICNG NSW EPA Interim Construction Noise Guideline

ISEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (NSW)

km Kilometres

kV Kilovolts

m Metres

m3 Cubic metres

ML Megalitre

MW Megawatts

NEPC National Environment Protection Council

NML Noise Management Level

NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW)

NSW New South Wales

NGER Act National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007

NOW NSW Office of Water

NOx Nitrogen oxides

NTSCORP Native Title Services Corporation Limited

NV Act Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NSW)

NW Act Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW)

OOHW Out of hours work

PAH Aromatic hydrocarbons

PCCR Pre-construction Compliance Report

PCT Plant Community Type

PESCP Progressive Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (aka ESCP)


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PMP Project Management Plan

POCR Pre-operation Compliance Report

POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW)

QSE Manager Quality, Safety, and Environment Manager

RAV restricted access vehicles

RBL Rating Background Level

RET Scheme Renewable Energy Target Scheme

RFD Rock Filter Dam

RMS Roads and Maritime Services

R[x] Sensitive receiver [number]

SoC Statement of Commitments in Environmental Assessment

SOx Sulphur oxides

Sp./spp. Species/species (plural)

TCP Traffic Control Plans

TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW)

The Principal Bodangora Wind Farm Pty Ltd (Infigen Energy Development Pty Ltd subsidiary)

The Project Bodangora Wind Farm The Proponent Bodangora Wind Farm Pty Ltd

VOC Volatile organic compounds

WTG [xx] Wind turbine generator [unit number]


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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 CONTEXT

This Construction Biodiversity Management Plan (CBMP) forms part of the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) for Bodangora Wind Farm (the Project).

This CBMP has been prepared to address the requirements of:

• New South Wales (NSW) Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) consolidated Conditions of Approval (CoA) Modification 2 (December 2016)

• All applicable legislation, during the construction of the Project • Mitigation and management measures listed in the Statement of Commitments (SoC) in the

Bodangora Wind Farm Environmental Assessment (EA) and Modification Reports

CoA E21 states:

As part of the Construction Environmental Management Plan for the Project required under condition E20, the Proponent shall prepare and implement:

(f) a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan to detail how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed. This plan must be prepared in consultation with OEH and must:

i. Include baseline mapping of the vegetation communities and key fauna habitat on the site, including detailed maps of the transmission line corridor;

ii. Clearly identify the areas on site that would be disturbed;

iii. Include a description of the measures that would be implemented for:

• Minimising the amount of native vegetation clearing within the approved development footprint;

• Minimising the impacts on fauna on site, including minimising impacts on tree hollows, undertaking pre-clearance surveys and maintaining a vegetation clearance register;

• Managing potential indirect impacts on threatened flora and fauna species;

• Rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas;

• Protecting vegetation and fauna habitat outside the approved disturbance area;

• Maximising the salvage of resources within the approved disturbance area – including vegetative and soil resources – for beneficial reuse (including fauna habitat enhancement) during the rehabilitation and revegetation of the site;

• Controlling weeds and feral pests;

• Controlling erosion;

• Controlling access; and

• Bushfire management; and

iv. Include a detailed program to monitor and report on the effectiveness of the above measures.


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1.2 BACKGROUND

Bodangora Wind Farm Pty Ltd (BWFPL), a subsidiary of Infigen Energy Development Pty Ltd, received planning approval for the construction and operation of a wind farm and ancillary infrastructure at Bodangora, in central west NSW. Bodangora Wind Farm is a State Significant Development project and environmental initiative that represents an important contribution to renewable energy generation in NSW. It is expected that Bodangora Wind Farm will significantly assist in reducing the greenhouse gas emission of NSW’s electricity generation.

The EA for Bodangora Wind Farm summarised the key findings of the assessment the impacts of the construction and operation of the Project on biodiversity. It identified the potential for minor impacts on biodiversity during construction associated with removal of vegetation, weed invasion, and erosion. The EA proposed the implementation of mitigation and management measures to minimise these impacts.

A Consortium has been awarded the contract to construct the Project. The Consortium comprises an EPC Contract Partnership between CATCON and GE, where both parties are signatories to the EPC Contract, with CATCON being the Lead Contractor. GE are responsible for supply of towers and turbines, while CATCON are responsible for the remainder or works including civil, electrical, substation, and installation of towers and turbines. The switchyards and overhead powerlines will be constructed by TransGrid. All TransGrid staff and contractors will be inducted into and operate under this CEMP.

This CBMP describes the environmental management measures CATCON will implement during the construction work.

1.3 CONSULTATION

Preliminary drafts of the CBMP was sent to various government agencies. Details of consultation are provided in Appendix L.

1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS OVERVIEW

The overall Environmental Management System for construction of the Project is described in the CEMP. This CBMP is part of the environmental management framework for the Project. Mitigation and management measures identified in this CBMP will be incorporated into site or activity specific Environmental Work Method Statements (EWMS) (or Safe Work Method Statements) and Activity Procedures, with reference to relevant guidelines such as RTA’s (2011) Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects.

Used together, the CEMP, CBMP, strategies, procedures and EWMS form management guides that clearly identify required environmental management actions for reference by personnel and contractors. Specific actions to manage the impacts of construction on birds and bats are described in the Bird and Bat Adaptive Management Program (BBAMP).

The review and document control processes for this CBMP are described in the CEMP.


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2 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

2.1 PURPOSE OF THIS CBMP

The purpose of this plan is to describe how impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed during construction of the Project.

2.2 OBJECTIVES

The key objective of the CBMP is to ensure that impacts to biodiversity are minimised and are within the scope permitted by the planning approval. To achieve this objective, the following will be undertaken:

• Ensure controls and procedures are implemented during site establishment, construction, and road work activities to avoid, minimise or manage potential adverse impacts to biodiversity within and adjacent to the project area

• Ensure appropriate measures are implemented to address the mitigation measures detailed in the CoA and EA

• Ensure measures are implemented to comply with all relevant legislation and other requirements as described in Section 3.1 of this plan

2.3 TARGETS

The following targets have been established for the management of biodiversity impacts during the Project:

• Full compliance with the relevant legislative requirements • Full compliance with relevant requirements of the CoA and EA • No disturbance to biodiversity outside the construction footprint and associated access

tracks and site compounds • Minimisation of disturbance to biodiversity within the project area • Clearing limit of 1.32 ha checked on a monthly basis and is not exceeded • No increase in distribution of weeds currently existing within the project area • No new weeds introduced to the project area • No fauna mortality during clearing and construction • No pollution or siltation of aquatic ecosystems, wetlands, endangered ecological

communities or threatened species habitat • Rehabilitate all disturbed areas not required for the operation of the wind farm • Active erosion will be managed and minimised • Revegetation of disturbed areas will have 70% ground cover over 90% of disturbed areas

o Failed vegetation patches greater than 1 m2 will be revegetated o Weed populations greater than 10% of revegetation will be controlled o Ground cover will achieve seed set across at least 80% of area o At least 80% survival of trees and shrubs will be achieved in 12 months o Native species will be used in areas of native vegetation removal


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3 ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 RELEVANT LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES

3.1.1 Legislation

Legislation relevant to biodiversity management includes:

• Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) • National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) • Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) • Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) • Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NV Act) • Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) • Pesticides Act 1999 • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

Relevant provisions of the above legislation are explained in the register of legal and other requirements included in Appendix A of the CEMP.

3.1.2 Guidelines

The main guidelines, specifications and policy documents relevant to this plan include:

• NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. 2001. Policy for the Translocation of Threatened Fauna in NSW: Policy and Procedure Statement No. 9 Threatened Species Unit, Hurstville NSW

• NSW RTA Environment Branch. 2011. Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects

• Relevant recovery plans, priority action statements and best practice guidelines

3.1.3 Conditions of approval

CoA E21 requires the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CoA E20) to have a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan to detail how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed. There are also a number of other CoAs which detail specific requirements for mitigation and management measures. The requirements of these CoAs are addressed in this plan (Table 3-1).

Table 3-1 Location of information in this plan addressing the requirements of Conditions of Approval.

Condition of Approval

Condition requirement Location

C1(a) The Proponent must ensure that no more than 1.32 hectares (ha) of native vegetation is cleared for the Project, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise

Table 4.4 Section 6 Section 7.3

C1(b) The Proponent must minimise: - Impacts on hollow-bearing trees; - Impacts on threatened bird and bat populations; and - The clearing of native woodland vegetation and fauna habitat.

Section 6, Appendices A-G, BBAMP

C2 Tree trunks and major branches from cleared trees should be used, to the fullest extent practicable, to enhance habitat (coarse woody debris) in

Section 6


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rehabilitated areas or in derived native grassland (either in offset areas or areas adjoining impact areas) and details included in the Construction Biodiversity Management Plan required by condition E21(f)

Appendix B (B.4)

C3 All feasible and reasonable effort shall be made to locate wind turbines at least 30 m from adjacent hollow-bearing trees which have the potential to provide roost or nesting habitat for bird and bat species identified to be at risk of rotor collision during turbine operation.

Section 6,

C4 Where micro-siting is proposed, the proponent shall identify the proposed turbine locations in the CEMP, and demonstrate how those locations will not give rise to increased landscape, vegetation, cultural heritage, visual amenity, shadow flicker, noise, fire risk or aviation impacts when compared with the approved locations.

Section 6 CEMP Appendix L

C5 All feasible and reasonable effort shall be made to avoid native vegetation disturbance (including clearing of hollow-bearing trees) during micro-siting and construction of the Project so as to reduce as far as possible the extent of vegetation disturbance required for the Project.

Section 6, Appendix C

C7 Following final design, and prior to commencement of construction in areas requiring native vegetation clearing, or as otherwise agreed to by the Secretary, the Proponent shall develop and submit a Biodiversity Offset Package for the approval of the Secretary. The Package shall detail how the ecological values lost as a result of the Project will be offset. The Biodiversity Offset Package shall be developed in consultation with the OEH and shall (unless otherwise agreed by the Secretary) include, but not necessarily be limited to: (a) the identification of the extent and types of habitat that would be lost or

degraded as a result of the final design of the Project; (b) the objectives and biodiversity outcomes to be achieved (including

‘improve or maintain’ biodiversity values’), and the adequacy of the proposed offset considered;

(c) the final suite of the biodiversity offset measures selected and secured, including but not necessarily limited to:

i. an offset proposal which is supported by a suitable metric method (such as the Biobanking Assessment Methodology);

ii. details of the relative condition and values of communities on the offset site in comparison to those to be impacted, including all areas of derived native grassland in moderate to good condition; and

iii. proposed management actions and expected gains; (d) the monitoring requirements for compensatory habitat works and other

biodiversity offset measures proposed to ensure the outcomes of the package are achieved, including:

i. the monitoring of the condition of species and ecological communities at offset locations;

ii. the methodology for the monitoring program(s), including the number and location of offset monitoring sites, and the sampling frequency at these sites; and

iii. provisions for the annual reporting of the monitoring results for a set period of time as determined in consultation with the OEH;

Section 6, Biodiversity Offset Package


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(e) timing and responsibilities for the implementation of the provisions of the Package;

(f) evidence that the offset(s) has been acquired and / or is permanent and secure prior to the commencement of construction;

(g) how securing the site addresses the residual impacts of the action on threatened species;

(h) proposed long term funding for management actions as well as roles and responsibilities; and

(i) key milestones, performance indicators, corrective actions and timeframes for the completion of all actions outlined in the Package.

Land offsets shall be consistent with the Principles for the use of Biodiversity Offsets in NSW (OEH, 2011) and the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 – Environmental Offset Policy. Any land offset shall be enduring and be secured by a conservation mechanism which protects and manages the land in perpetuity. Where land offsets cannot solely achieve compensation for the loss of habitat, additional measures shall be provided to collectively deliver an improved or maintained biodiversity outcome for the region. Where monitoring indicates that biodiversity outcomes are not being achieved, feasible and reasonable remedial actions shall be undertaken to ensure that the objectives of the Biodiversity Offset Package are achieved.

C16 The Proponent shall ensure that all Project components on site are designed, constructed and operated to minimise ignition risks, provide for asset protection consistent with relevant RFS design guidelines (Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006 and Standards for Asset Protection) and provide for necessary emergency management including appropriate fire-fighting equipment and water supplies on site to respond to a bushfire.

Section 6

C17 Throughout the operational life of the Project, the Proponent shall regularly consult with the local RFS about details of the Project, including the construction timetable and the final location of all infrastructure on the site. The Proponent shall comply with any reasonable request of the local RFS to reduce the risk of bushfire and to enable fast access in emergencies.

Section 6

E21(f) a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan to detail how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed. This plan must be prepared in consultation with OEH and must:

This plan

E21(f)(i) Include baseline mapping of the vegetation communities and key fauna habitat on the site, including detailed maps of the transmission line corridor

Section 4.1,

E21(f)(ii) Clearly identify the areas on site that would be disturbed Section 4.4 E21(f)(iii) Include a description of the measures that would be implemented for:

• Minimising the amount of native vegetation clearing within the approved development footprint;

• Minimising the impacts on fauna on site, including minimising impacts on tree hollows, undertaking pre-clearance surveys and maintaining a vegetation clearance register;

• Managing potential indirect impacts on threatened flora and fauna species; • Rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas • Protecting vegetation and fauna habitat outside the approved disturbance

area; • Maximising the salvage of resources within the approved disturbance area

– including vegetative and soil resources – for beneficial reuse (including fauna habitat enhancement) during the rehabilitation and revegetation of the site;

• Controlling weeds and feral pests;

Section 6, Appendices A - J


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• Controlling erosion; • Controlling access; and • Bushfire management.

E21(f)(iv) Include a detailed program to monitor and report on the effectiveness of the above measures

Sections 7.3, 7.5

F5 Disturbance to watercourses and/or associated riparian vegetation shall be rehabilitated to a standard equal to or better than the existing condition in consultation with the DPI - Water and DPI (Fisheries) within six months of the cessation of construction activities at the relevant area. Any revegetation measures undertaken shall be monitored and maintained consistent with the requirements of condition F6.

Sections 5, 6.3, 6.5

F6 The Proponent shall implement a revegetation and rehabilitation program for all areas of the Project footprint which are disturbed during the construction of the Project, which are not required for the ongoing operation of the Project, including temporary construction facility sites and sections of construction access roads. The Proponent shall ensure that all revegetation measures are implemented progressively where possible and in all cases within six months of the cessation of construction activities at the relevant area. Unless otherwise agreed to by the Secretary, the Proponent shall monitor and maintain the health of all revegetated areas until such time that the plantings have been verified by an independent and suitably qualified expert (whose appointment has been agreed to by the Secretary) as being well established, in good health and self-sustaining.

Sections 5, 6.3, 6.5, Appendix B (B.4)


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3.1.4 Commitments

The SoC also detailed how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed. The commitments relating to biodiversity are addressed in this plan (Table 3-2).

Table 3-2 Location of information in this plan addressing the commitments listed in the EA.

Commitment table

Commitment requirement Location

Table 20.5 Tree clearing should be avoided wherever practical. Micro-siting of turbines and infrastructure to avoid areas of woodland and native trees will occur:

Section 6, CEMP Appendix L

Table 20.5 An ecologist will assist in determining the best possible routing of access tracks and cables to assist in avoiding hollow-bearing trees, creeks, woodland, and rocky outcrops in cleared areas.

Section 6

Table 20.5 Where turbines are proposed to be located among rocky outcrops which cannot be avoided, the excavated rock should be deposited nearby in a ‘natural’ formation to re-create rocky habitat.

Section 6, Appendix G

Table 20.5 Where tree clearing cannot be avoided: • an ecologist will be engaged to develop an appropriate tree

clearance protocol; and • a vegetation clearance register be maintained, including tree

locations, type, size and numbers.

Section 6, Appendix B, Appendix C, Appendix D

Table 20.5 In order to minimise the likelihood of impact to birds of prey: • No turbine will have perching places; • Dead animals within 200 metres of a turbine will be removed as

soon as possible, including road kill on wind farm access tracks; • No night lighting on turbines; and • Buildings, poles or other structures should not be constructed within

200 metres of turbines as they may provide perching opportunities for birds of prey

Section 6

Table 20.5 Weed control measures will be implemented to ensure invasive weed problems are not exacerbated, particularly in the avoidance of the spreading of invasive weeds as previously listed

Section 6, Appendix H, Appendix I

Table 20.5 Measures to be taken to ensure construction of tracks, cable routes and hardstands should not cause excessive erosion. Construction should be monitored by a qualified environmental auditor to ensure the following:

• permanent tracks should be stabilised as soon as practical; • temporary tracks and buried cable routes will be rehabilitated as soon

as practical following back-filling of trench; • care taken on steep slopes to ensure that erosion does not occur, with

any problems being rectified as soon as practical; • on-site maintenance crew will be responsible for regularly checking

the cable routes for erosion until the routes have been stabilised and satisfactorily revegetated;

• the property owners and/or Government authority will be contacted to identify a suitable cover crop for sites requiring seeding to accelerate revegetation;

• advice on micro-siting of wind farm components; and • creation of rocky habitat where rock is excavated.

Section 6, CSWMP, Appendix G

Table 20.5 If trees and other plants are planted around buildings and other facilities, these should be locally indigenous species.

Section 2.3, Section 6


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Table 20.5 If required, a vegetation off-set strategy will be developed in consultation with DECCW. Final figures for clearance will be determined when the final project design is available. The off-set locations will be determined in consultation with a Biobanking accredited ecologist. The determination of a suitable metric for off-set will be according to the requirements of the Office of Environment and Heritage. The quantum of vegetation to be preserved is likely to be in the order of four times the area of vegetation removed.

Section 6

Table 20.4 The potential fire risk associated with electrical failure will be managed by the following measures:

• Use of fully enclosed electrical equipment on turbine structures and pad-mount transformers;

• Extensive use of underground cabling between turbines; • Design of any overhead lines in accordance with industry standards; • Exclusion of vegetation from within the substation enclosure; and • Use of circuit breakers and fuses to interrupt any electrical fault.

Section 6


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4 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS AND IMPACTS

4.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

The majority of the project area comprises exotic pasture used for cropping or grazing, where little native ground cover or native shrubs occur. This is typical of the rural landscape associated with the tablelands and western slopes of NSW.

The project area supports some stands of modified woodland and scattered paddock trees. The understorey and groundcover of most woodland areas is exotic grassland or a mix of native and exotic plants, except of some areas including along roadsides and on poorer soils where pasture has not established.

In higher elevation areas where sedimentary rocks and granite are evident, the woodland contains:

• A high proportion of White Cypress Callitris glaucophylla in addition to associated trees and shrubs, with a mix of native and exotic species, in the central and southern regions of the project area

• White Box Woodland, comprising White Box Eucalyptus albens, Blakely’s Red Gum Eucalyptus blakelyi, and Yellow Box Eucalyptus melliodora in low-lying areas extending into higher elevation areas except where poor soils are evident

• Tussocky native grasses on the ridges, while there is almost no native grassland understorey remaining, it is sometimes dominated by species of Speargrass Austrostipa spp. and/or Redleg Grass Bothriochloa macra

• Red Stringybark Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Tumbledown Gum Eucalyptus dealbata, Long-leaved Box Eucalyptus nortonii, and Red Box Eucalyptus polyanthemos where poor, stony soils are located on sedimentary rocks. This is the most common vegetation community to the north of Mount Bodangora

Site surveys and Aerial Photo Interpretation (API) for the baseline mapping assessment were used to identify and validate the Plant Community Type (PCT) of vegetation in the project area. Nine PCTs were identified on site, which are described in Table 4-1. High resolution maps are shown in Appendix K. Shape files mapping the extent of each PCT has be sent to the project designer teams. The designers will use this information to identify clearing boundaries and exclusion zones on detailed design drawings.

Groundcover identified within the baseline vegetation maps are as per the definitions included in Kevin Mills & Associates (2011). Areas identified as open woodland and/or woodland PCTs contain a mix of exotic and native understorey species. Within the PCTs, three (3) categories for identifying groundcover type and condition where defined and included in the baseline map;

• Exotic - where >75% of species and cover are composed of exotic plants. • Poor (Exotic) - where native and exotic species are present however, where exotic

species occupy >50%, but <75% of both cover and species present • Native moderate/good - >50% of species and cover are composed of native plants

In addition, large areas of the site are highly modified (e.g. cropped paddocks) and contain no native vegetation. These areas are mapped as “Exotic”.


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Table 4-1 Identified Plant Community Types (PCTs) recorded in project area.

PCT number PCT Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) 266 White Box grassy woodland in the upper slopes sub-

region of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland (TSC Act)

461 Tumbledown Gum woodland on hills in the northern NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and southern Brigalow Belt South Bioregion

Not an EEC

78 River Red Gum riparian tall woodland / open forest wetland in the Nandewar Bioregion and Brigalow Belt South Bioregion

Not an EEC

279 Blakely's Red Gum - White Cypress Pine woodland on footslopes of hills in central part of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion

White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland (TSC Act)

358 Mugga Ironbark - Red Box - White Box - Black Cypress Pine tall woodland on rises and hills in the northern NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion

Not an EEC

345 Red Box - Tumbledown Gum - Red Stringybark - Long-leaved Box dry woodland, upper NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion

Not an EEC

274 White Box - Rough-barked Apple alluvial woodland of the NSW central western slopes including in the Mudgee region

Not an EEC

281 Rough-Barked Apple - red gum - Yellow Box woodland on alluvial clay to loam soils on valley flats in the northern NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and Brigalow Belt South Bioregion

White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland (TSC Act)

619 Derived Wire Grass grassland of the NSW Brigalow Belt South Bioregion and Nandewar Bioregion

Not an EEC

0 Exotic Grassland Not an EEC


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In total, 11 native mammals, 104 birds, 16 reptiles, and three frogs have been previously recorded in the wider locality, with 87 of these species (76 native, 11 introduced) being recorded during investigations for the Project.

The Bat Fauna Assessment identified a total of 6184 identifiable echolocation calls over the nine nights of survey. The highest level of activity was recorded along creeks. Bat species recorded included the White-striped Freetail-bat, Gould’s Wattled Bat, Chocolate Wattle Bat, Southern Freetail Bat, Long-eared Bats, Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat, Large Forest Bat, Southern Forest Bat, and Inland Forest Bat.

The following sections summarise existing threatened flora and fauna within and adjacent to the project area including species, communities and habitats.

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS

4.2.1 Endangered Ecological Communities (EEC)

Almost all the remnant trees, patches of trees, and the occasional patches of native grassland in the lower areas of the site are part of the White Box – Yellow Box – Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland (listed as endangered under the EPBC Act and TSC Act), which is found extensively across central-western NSW.

4.2.2 Threatened Flora

No threatened plant species or endangered populations were recorded during the surveys for the EA within the project area or within 20 kilometres of the project area.

Although targeted searches for the Bluegrass Dichanthium setosum were not required, a number of plants were recorded in Yellow Box dominated woodland within the proposed transmission line easement and impact area, approximately 600 m southeast of Goolma Road (Figure 4-1, at coordinates E 700127 N 6409582 GDA94 Z55). An estimated 20 plants were recorded in an area of about 15 x 15 m. This species is listed as vulnerable under both the TSC Act and the EPBC Act, and was not recorded in searches during biometric plots through other areas of the project area. This area should be identified and demarcated to minimise the likelihood of any impacts.

4.2.3 Fauna habitats

As most of the understorey across the project area is dominated by exotic species, the most important habitat feature across the site are trees, which provide foraging, roosting, and breeding resources for fauna. Tree hollows are particularly important. Of 361 trees that were surveyed as part of the field investigations, 17% of trees had at least one hollow, which is considered not common in the landscape. Of those hollow-bearing trees, large hollows are rare, and large old trees are even rarer.

Areas of rocky outcrops have also been identified, as they provide important habitat for reptiles and other animal groups including bats and possums within the study area. Rocky outcrops are especially evident in the central and southern parts of the project area.

Low-lying flats and riparian zones along watercourses provide some wetland habitat, although all wetlands in the area are rare and ephemeral in nature. Farm dams within the project area provide relatively small areas of open water with little fringing wetland vegetation, only useful for low numbers of a few species.


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International migratory species listed under the EPBC Act occur in the locality, including diurnal birds of prey (such as Nankeen Kestrel) and waterfowl (such as native ducks). These species are not threatened in Australia, and are in some cases abundant. No important habitat for such species has been identified within the project area.

Sensitive habitat areas are shown in the constraints map in Figure 4-1. High resolution images of the constraints mapping (A1 format) will be forwarded separately to designers and site staff. Close ups of the constraints map are presented in Appendix K. High resolution constraint maps are provided electronically as PDFs and shape files to design and construction teams.


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Figure 4-1: Constraints map of project area, inset maps in Appendix K.


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4.2.4 Threatened fauna

Threatened fauna species identified during the surveys (known) and those which have been previously recorded in the area and with suitable habitat in the study area (possible) are listed in Table 4-1. From habitat assessments, it was found that four threatened species under the EPBC Act and/or TSC Act have the potential to occur within the study area.

Table 4-1 Threatened fauna species.

Common name Scientific name EPBC Act TSC Act Occurrence

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat

Saccolaimus flaviventris - Vulnerable Known

Superb Parrot Polytelis swainsonii Vulnerable Vulnerable Known

Grey-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus temporalis - Vulnerable Known

Spotted-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus Vulnerable Vulnerable Possible

4.3 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

The Project will involve the construction of 33 wind turbines, including footings and hardstand areas, as well as the following ancillary items:

• Substation switchyard adjacent to turbine 27 and a 132 kV transmission line connection to the existing TransGrid 132 kV Wellington-Beryl transmission line

• An operation and maintenance centre in the south-west of the project area • 39 kilometres (km) of new and upgraded access tracks • Around 37 km of underground (or overhead) 33 kV cabling to provide connections between the

wind turbines within the project area, located along tracks as far as possible • Around 8.2 km overhead (or underground) 33 kV transmission line, providing connection between

the wind arm and the proposed substation • Temporary and permanent wind monitoring masts

Key aspects of the Project that could result in impacts to biodiversity include:

• Clearing of native vegetation (including habitat) • Works around waterbodies • Noise impacts • Disturbance of soils, consequential erosion and the mobilisation of sediment • Use of chemicals / fuels (potential for spills)

4.4 INFRASTRUCTURE CLEARING

Clearing estimates are based on the typical footprint expected for each activity including:

Turbine Foundation 900 m2 Crane Hard stand 1500 m2 Blade storage 1000 m2 Compound and laydown 2.4 ha Batch plant 1 ha Access tracks 15m wide Transmission line 1.16ha, native and exotic


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4.5 ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS

Likely and/or potential impacts on flora and fauna associated with the Project are discussed in Section 9 of the EA and include:

• Removal of up to 1.32 hectares (ha) of native vegetation • Direct and indirect impacts to fauna • Loss of and disturbance to vegetation and fauna habitat • Spread of weeds and feral pests • Erosion • Access impacts • Bushfire

Mitigation and management measures provided in Table 6-1 aim to minimise the above likely and potential impacts on flora and fauna.

Calculations of vegetation impacts based on the project design of May 2017 (Table 4-2) demonstrates an estimated 1.17 ha of native vegetation would be removed, subject to final calculations determined during clearance on site. This complies with the requirement of CoA C1(a) to ensure that no more than 1.32 ha of native vegetation is cleared for the project.

Table 4-2 Indicative vegetation removal by vegetation class, based on design as of May 2017.

Indicative removal amount Turbines, access tracks, laydown areas, cabling, etc

Transmission line and substation Total

Native, moderate/good quality 0.036 ha 1.134 ha 1.17 ha

Exotic, Low quality 3.987 ha 0.004 ha 3.99 ha

Exotic 70.787 ha 0.023 ha 70.81 ha

This is reported in the Approach to Compliance with Conditions of Approval C1, E21 (Draft).

CoA C3 requires all feasible and reasonable effort be made to locate wind turbines at least 30 m from adjacent hollow-bearing trees. The design process has reduced the amount of native vegetation impacted by the turbine locations. Constraints mapping air photo information and field inspections have been used to inform the design process and move turbine locations away from trees. Micro-siting of final turbine locations has also been able to further move reduce the impact of turbines on hollow bearing trees. Based on the current designs CATCON have been able to minimize and largely eliminate turbines located within 30m of hollow bearing vegetation.

5 REHABILITATION AND REVEGETATION Areas temporarily disturbed for the project will need to be rehabilitated and revegetated. Temporarily disturbed areas include; batters for permanent tracks and temporary tracks, hardstands and laydown areas turbine footings and buried cable routes. The aim of the rehabilitation and revegetation is to stabilise the disturbed area and to return it to a condition that is similar to its pre-disturbance state. Rehabilitated disturbed areas will not be identical to the pre-disturbance state. Targets for the rehabilitation are described in section 2.3. Inspection of rehabilitated areas is described in section 6.3.


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5.1 RIPPING AND TOPSOILING

All disturbed areas to be rehabilitated will be topsoiled. Prior to the application of topsoils compacted areas will be tined or ripped to a depth of 150mm to loosen the surface. Over the tined surface place 50-80mm of topsoils. Ensure the topsoil is free of rocks and sticks greater than 100mm in diameter or 500mm in length. Harrow the topsoil prior to sowing seed if the surface has set hard following rain. Apply lime and gypsum to the soil at the rate of 2500kg/ha.

Spray any undesirable grass/weed growth occurring on topsoil stockpiles with herbicide before spreading the topsoil. More than one application of herbicide may be required. Apply the last application of herbicide not less than 4 weeks before spreading the topsoil or longer as is recommended by the manufacturer.

Due the climatic conditions (evaporation rates) pasture establishment is best attempted over late autumn, winter or early spring. Wet summers are also able to maintain established perennial pasture growth in summer active species. Summer rainfall is less reliable than summer evaporation and as such revegetation is also less reliable. As such rehabilitation and revegetation should commence in late summer/early autumn as temperatures decrease and evaporation rates fall. Unless it is proposed to irrigate the rehabilitated area avoid topsoiling and revegetation late spring and summer.

5.2 DRY SOWING

Undertake dry sowing using either:

(a) a tractor drawn seed drill to place seed at a depth of 5 mm or less; or

(b) a spreader followed immediately by a single pass with an unweighted diamond harrow.

Where safe to do so tractor passes with the seed drill or harrow will follow the finished surface contours. Distribute seed and fertiliser evenly over the areas to be sown at the rates specified below. Apply fertiliser concurrently with the seeding operation.

Calibrate the drill and monitor the seed and fertiliser application rates to ensure an even distribution over the areas sown, in accordance with the rates nominated. Maintain records of measurements and calculations to determine actual distribution rates for areas treated.

5.3 HYDROMULCHING AND HYDROSEEDING

Carry out hydromulching / hydroseeding within 5 -10 days of completed soil preparation or, if delayed by the weather conditions as soon as conditions permit.

Agitate continuously the slurry of seed, fertiliser, binder (60kg/ha Guar gum) (and mulch) and water (35 kl/ha) to maintain a uniform consistency during application. Apply it the sprayed slurry uniformly over the whole surface ensuring that all surfaces are sprayed from two directions to ensure complete coverage. The sprayed hydromulch layer within 48 hours of application must have a minimum thickness at any location of 5 mm when using sugar cane mulch, or 2 mm when using wood fibre or shredded paper.

Where straw (5t/ha) is used for mulch apply the straw mulch uniformly using a purpose-made blower unit. Incorporate the emulsion (bitumen) as a spray into the air stream of the mulch blower or apply it in a separate operation within 12 hours from the application of straw mulch. The straw mulch layer within 48 hours of application must have a minimum thickness at any location of 25 mm.

Do not apply hydroseeding / hydromulching and straw mulching if winds exceed 15 km/hr, temperatures exceed 37C, the surface is water logged; or during rain periods or when rain appears imminent.


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5.4 OPEN DRAINS AND BATTERS’ STEEPER THAN 2:1

Lay the runs of the organic fibre mesh (Jute Mesh) along the direction of water flow or down the steep batter. In drains slot the upstream end of the mesh into a trench 150 mm wide by 150 mm deep and pin the mesh to the base of the trench at 200 mm centres. Backfill the trench with soil and compact by foot. Lay the mesh taut and evenly over the soil surface without any air pockets but do not stretch it. Overlap adjacent runs of mesh by 100 mm with the higher run lapped over the lower.

Pin the mesh along the sides of each run at 500 mm centres and along the middle of each run at 1 m centres. End overlaps must be 150 mm wide with the higher run end lapped over the start of the lower and pinned at 200 mm centres.

Hydroseed or hand seed areas prior to jut matting. Spray a slow setting anionic bitumen emulsion over the meshed surface at a rate of 0.8 to 1.0 litre of undiluted residual bitumen emulsion per square metre.

5.5 MAINTENANCE

Maintain all revegetated areas for 6 months after all sowing is complete or until Contract Completion, whichever occurs first. Water areas where and when directed by the Principal. Water by means of a fine spray which causes minimal disturbance to seeded areas.

Clear dead vegetation from areas showing poor growth or damage and replace all lost topsoil. Then recultivate and reseed the area. Control weeds where required with herbicide or hand removal.

5.6 SOWING AND FERTILISER RATE

Apply pelletised poultry manure to be applied at a rate of 250 kg/hectare. Or apply Granulock® S (or similar: 16% nitrogen, 16.7% phosphorus, 12% sulphur) at 150kg/ha. Consult with the district agronomist and landowner to determine pasture type and fertiliser rates suitable for each site. Where required a mixture of native and introduced pasture species may be used. Care should be taken to ensure sufficient plant densities.

Table 5-1: Suggested Introduced pasture species and rates for rehabilitation.

Plant type Seeding Rate (kg/ha)

Cocksfoot 4

Tall fescue 4

Sub clover 5

Perennial Ryegrass 3

Phalaris 2

Table 5-2: Suggested native pasture species and rates for rehabilitation.

Plant type Seeding Rate (kg/ha)

Wallaby grass (Austrodanthonia spp.) 2

Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra) 2

Spear grass (Austrostipa spp.) 2

Red grass (Bothriochloa macra) 2

Cover crop of sterile rye-corn 25


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5.7 REUSE OF ROCK AND COARSE WORDY DEBRIS (CWD)

In areas where rehabilitation is to occur some opportunity exists for the creation of habitat. Rock that has been excavated or relocated and CWD from tree removal can be used discreetly to provide a habitat for terrestrial fauna. The landowner will be consulted regarding the reuse of rock and CWD as part of any rehabilitation.

Where rock is used it would be placed so as to resemble other rock outcrops in the immediate area. Collections of rock would be placed to provide habitat at discreet locations adjacent standing timber and possibly water. Rock would be handled and placed to retain any lichen and moss on the upper surface of the rock. Rock may also be used to stabilise the toe of steep batters. Small crushed rock would be used to stabilise the inlets and outlets of culverts.

Course woody debris were available would be placed as discrete logs within rehabilitated areas adjacent to standing native vegetation. CWD must not be placed in piles. Piles of CWD can be a fire hazard and habitat for feral animals. CWD should be placed at a rate of about 30 lineal metres per 20x50 quadrant. Where possible large branches and root balls with or without hollows would be used.


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6 FLORA AND FAUNA MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES A range of environmental requirements and control measures are identified in the various environmental documents, including the EA and CoA. Specific measures and requirements to address impacts on flora and fauna are outlined in Table 6-1 (Note: blue text = CoA, green text = SoC).

Table 6-1 Biodiversity management and mitigation measures.

Measure / Requirement Resources needed Stage Responsible Party Reference

GENERAL

Training will be provided to all Project personnel, including relevant sub-contractors on biodiversity requirements from this plan through inductions, toolboxes and targeted training.

Induction package

Toolbox training material

Targeted training material

Pre-construction Construction

Operation

CATCON

HSE Advisor

CEMP Section 6

DESIGN

All feasible and reasonable effort shall be made to locate wind turbines at least 30 metres from adjacent hollow-bearing trees which have the potential to provide roost or nesting habitat for bird and bat species identified to be at risk of rotor collision during turbine operation.

Constraints mapping

Micro-siting

Design CATCON Design drawings

Constraints maps

Micro-siting

The Proponent must: b) Ensure that no more than 1.32 hectares (ha) of native vegetation is cleared for the

Project, unless the Secretary agrees otherwise; c) Minimise:

- Impacts on hollow-bearing trees; - Impacts on threatened bird and bat populations; and - The clearing of native woodland vegetation and fauna habitat.

Baseline vegetation mapping

Supply vegetation shapefiles to design teams

Constraints mapping

Micro-siting

Compliance reporting

Clearing limits and exclusion zones on design drawings

Design BWFPL

CATCON

Design drawings

CBMP

BBAMP

Constraints maps

Approach to Compliance With Conditions of Approval C1, E21 (Draft)


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The routing of access tracks will take into account the following considerations: • minimisation of the length of tracks; • location along the routes of existing tracks where possible; • location where clearing of vegetation is minimised; • construction with due regard to safety, erosion, sediment control and drainage; and • position and design, as far as possible, to reduce visual impacts.

Baseline vegetation mapping

Constraints mapping

Micro-siting


Design BWFPL

CATCON

Design drawings

Constraints maps

In order to minimise the likelihood of impact to birds of prey: • No turbine will have perching places; • Dead animals within 200 metres of a turbine will be removed as soon as possible,

including road kill on wind farm access tracks; • No night lighting on turbines; and • Buildings, poles or other structures should not be constructed within 200 metres of

turbines as they may provide perching opportunities for birds of prey.

Turbine design review

Daily inspections for dead animals during construction

Ancillary facility design review

Design

Construction

BWFPL

CATCON

Design drawings

CBMP Section 6

Relevant EWMS

Waterway crossings shall be designed and constructed in consultation with DPI – Water and DPI (Fisheries) guidelines, Policy and Guidelines for Fish Friendly Waterway Crossings (2004) and Why Do Fish Need to Cross the Road? Fish Passage Re

Detailed designs of waterway crossings

Design

Construction

CATCON Design drawings

Constraints maps

CBMP Section 6

The Proponent shall ensure that all Project components on site are designed, constructed and operated to minimise ignition risks, provide for asset protection consistent with relevant RFS design guidelines (Planning for Bushfire Protection 2006 and Standards for Asset Protection) and provide for necessary emergency management including appropriate fire-fighting equipment and water supplies on site to respond to a bushfire.

Turbine design review

Bushfire Management Plan

Design

Construction

Operation

BWFPL

CATCON

Design drawings

CBMP Section 6

Throughout the operational life of the Project, the Proponent shall regularly consult with the local RFS about details of the Project, including the construction timetable and the final location of all infrastructure on the site. The Proponent shall comply with any reasonable request of the local RFS to reduce the risk of bushfire and to enable fast access in emergencies.

Include RFS in CCC

Forward construction timetable to RFS

Design

Construction

Operation

BWFPL

CATCON

Design drawings

CBMP Section 6

The potential fire risk associated with electrical failure will be managed by the following measures: • Use of fully enclosed electrical equipment on turbine structures and pad-mount

transformers; • Extensive use of underground cabling between turbines; • Design of any overhead lines in accordance with industry standards; • Exclusion of vegetation from within the substation enclosure; and • Use of circuit breakers and fuses to interrupt any electrical fault.

Design review for cable connections between turbines and substation

Design review for overhead transmission line

Design

Construction

BWFPL

CATCON

Design Drawings

CBMP Section 6

PRE-CONSTRUCTION


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As part of the Construction Environmental Management Plan for the Project required under condition E20 the Proponent shall prepare and implement a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan to detail how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed.

This report Pre-construction CATCON

CBMP

Where micro-siting is proposed, the proponent shall identify the proposed turbine locations in the CEMP, and demonstrate how those locations will not give rise to increased landscape, vegetation, cultural heritage, visual amenity, shadow flicker, noise, fire risk or aviation impacts when compared with the approved locations.

Constraints mapping

Micro-siting assessment table in CEMP

Pre-construction CATCON CEMP Appendix L

Tree clearing should be avoided wherever practical. Micro-siting of turbines and infrastructure to avoid areas of woodland and native trees will occur:

• An ecologist will assist in determining the best possible routing of access tracks and cables to assist in avoiding hollow-bearing trees, creeks, woodland, and rocky outcrops in cleared areas.

• Where turbines are proposed to be located among rocky outcrops which cannot be avoided, the excavated rock should be deposited nearby in a ‘natural’ formation to re-create rocky habitat.

Where tree clearing cannot be avoided: • an ecologist will be engaged to develop an appropriate tree clearance protocol (Tree

Clearing Procedure); and • a vegetation clearance register be maintained, including tree locations, type, size and

numbers.

Constraints mapping

NGH Ecologist input to micro-siting


Pre-clearing procedure

Removal of reptile habitat procedure

Site rehabilitation

Pre-construction CATCON

ER

Project Ecologist

Design drawings

Constraints maps

CBMP Appendix B, C, D, G

CEMP Appendix L

Final rehabilitation and landscaping

Following final design, and prior to commencement of construction in areas requiring native vegetation clearing, or as otherwise agreed to by the Secretary, the Proponent shall develop and submit a Biodiversity Offset Package for the approval of the Secretary. The Package shall detail how the ecological values lost as a result of the Project will be offset. The Biodiversity Offset Package shall be developed in consultation with the OEH and shall (unless otherwise agreed by the Secretary) include, but not necessarily be limited to: (j) the identification of the extent and types of habitat that would be lost or degraded as a result

of the final design of the Project; (k) the objectives and biodiversity outcomes to be achieved (including ‘improve or maintain’

biodiversity values’), and the adequacy of the proposed offset considered; (l) the final suite of the biodiversity offset measures selected and secured, including but not

necessarily limited to: iv. an offset proposal which is supported by a suitable metric method (such as the

Biobanking Assessment Methodology);

Consultation with OEH

Standalone Biodiversity Offset Package

Pre-construction BWFPL CBMP Section 6



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v. details of the relative condition and values of communities on the offset site in comparison to those to be impacted, including all areas of derived native grassland in moderate to good condition; and

vi. proposed management actions and expected gains; (m) the monitoring requirements for compensatory habitat works and other biodiversity offset

measures proposed to ensure the outcomes of the package are achieved, including: iv. the monitoring of the condition of species and ecological communities at offset

locations; v. the methodology for the monitoring program(s), including the number and

location of offset monitoring sites, and the sampling frequency at these sites; and vi. provisions for the annual reporting of the monitoring results for a set period of

time as determined in consultation with the OEH; (n) timing and responsibilities for the implementation of the provisions of the Package; (o) evidence that the offset(s) has been acquired and / or is permanent and secure prior to the

commencement of construction; (p) how securing the site addresses the residual impacts of the action on threatened species; (q) proposed long term funding for management actions as well as roles and responsibilities; and (r) key milestones, performance indicators, corrective actions and timeframes for the completion

of all actions outlined in the Package. Land offsets shall be consistent with the Principles for the use of Biodiversity Offsets in NSW (OEH, 2011) and the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 – Environmental Offset Policy. Any land offset shall be enduring and be secured by a conservation mechanism which protects and manages the land in perpetuity. Where land offsets cannot solely achieve compensation for the loss of habitat, additional measures shall be provided to collectively deliver an improved or maintained biodiversity outcome for the region. Where monitoring indicates that biodiversity outcomes are not being achieved, feasible and reasonable remedial actions shall be undertaken to ensure that the objectives of the Biodiversity Offset Package are achieved. If required, a vegetation off-set strategy will be developed in consultation with OEH. Final figures for clearance will be determined when the final project design is available. The off-set locations will be determined in consultation with a Biobanking accredited ecologist. The determination of a suitable metric for off-set will be according to the requirements of the Office of Environment and Heritage. The quantum of vegetation to be preserved is likely to be in the order of four times the area of vegetation removed.

Consultation with OEH

Standalone Biodiversity Offset Package Compliance reporting

Pre-construction BWFPL

CATCON



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All feasible and reasonable effort shall be made to avoid native vegetation disturbance (including clearing of hollow-bearing trees) during micro-siting and construction of the Project so as to reduce as far as possible the extent of vegetation disturbance required for the Project.

Constraints mapping

Micro-siting

Detailed design plans

Exclusion fencing and signage

Pre-construction

Construction

CATCON CBMP Section 6

CEMP Appendix L

CONSTRUCTION

Measures to be taken to ensure construction of tracks, cable routes and hardstands should not cause excessive erosion. Construction should be monitored by a qualified environmental auditor to ensure the following:

• permanent tracks should be stabilised as soon as practical; • temporary tracks and buried cable routes will be rehabilitated as soon as practical

following, with back-filling of trench; • care taken on steep slopes to ensure that erosion does not occur, with any problems

rectified as soon as practical; • on-site maintenance crew will be responsible for regularly checking the cable routes for

erosion until the routes have been stabilised and satisfactorily revegetated; • the property owners and/or Government authority will be contacted to identify a suitable

cover crop for sites requiring seeding to accelerate revegetation; • advice on micro-siting of wind farm components; and • creation of rocky habitat where rock is excavated.

Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ERSED)

ERSED resources e.g. silt fence, geotextile

Hydromulching for revegetation and site stabilisation

Re-use of Coarse Woody Debris (CWD) and bushrock in rehabilitation areas

Construction

Post-construction

CATCON SWMP Section 7

Relevant EWMS

If trees and other plants are planted around buildings and other facilities, these should be locally indigenous species.

List of native tree and shrub species

Construction CATCON Relevant EWMS

Weed control measures will be implemented to ensure invasive weed problems are not exacerbated, particularly in the avoidance of the spreading of invasive weeds as previously listed.

An ecologist will inspect revegetated areas to identify weed populations. Measures will be employed to suppress noxious and other weeds like Saffron and Variegated Thistles.


CBMP Appendix G


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Disturbance to watercourses and/or associated riparian vegetation shall be rehabilitated to a standard equal to or better than the existing condition in consultation with the DPI - Water and DPI (Fisheries) within six months of the cessation of construction activities at the relevant area. Any revegetation measures undertaken shall be monitored and maintained consistent with the requirements of condition F6.

Waterway crossing designs

Rock scour protection

Riparian vegetation as required


The Proponent shall implement a revegetation and rehabilitation program for all areas of the Project footprint which are disturbed during the construction of the Project, which are not required for the ongoing operation of the Project, including temporary construction facility sites and sections of construction access roads. The Proponent shall ensure that all revegetation measures are implemented progressively where possible and in all cases within six months of the cessation of construction activities at the relevant area. Unless otherwise agreed to by the Secretary, the Proponent shall monitor and maintain the health of all revegetated areas until such time that the plantings have been verified by an independent and suitably qualified expert (whose appointment has been agreed to by the Secretary) as being well established, in good health and self-sustaining.

Revegetation and rehabilitation plan

Hydromulching and direct seeding



Tree trunks and major branches from cleared trees should be used, to the fullest extent practicable, to enhance habitat (coarse woody debris) in rehabilitated areas or in derived native grassland (either in offset areas or areas adjoining impacted areas) and details included in the Construction Biodiversity Management Plan required by condition E21(f).



Appendix B (section B.4)


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6.1 CONSTRAINTS MAPS

Constraints maps identify sensitive environments which may constrain activities on site. They also identify the conceptual location of infrastructure to be delivered for and by the project. As a result, interactions between sensitive environmental areas (constraints) and infrastructure can be readily identified. This will assist the project in a number of ways:

• Identifying areas to be avoided as part of the micro-siting process • Identifying areas to be protected or avoided during the detailed design phase for roads, laydown

areas, turbines, etc. • Identifying areas suitable for compounds and ancillary facilities • Identifying noise and dust sensitive receptors • Highlighting to staff on site where additional actions are required during construction • Prompt site staff to consider the use of management procedures during construction • Highlight to staff during construction the location of constraints

High resolution constraints mapping suitable for reproduction in A1 format have been produced, documenting all constraints including existing vegetation. These maps allow the relationship between disturbance areas and native vegetation to be understood. These maps will be provided electronically to design staff working on access roads, compounds, laydown areas, etc. In addition, the maps will be provided electronically and as hard copies to staff on site for use in conjunction with this plan. The issues and constraints identified on these constraints maps will be transferred to detailed design plans for the works as part of the design process.

7 COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT

7.1 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Project Team’s organisational structure and overall roles and responsibilities are outlined in Section 4.2 of the CEMP.

7.2 TRAINING

All employees, contractors and utility staff working on site will undergo site induction training relating to biodiversity management issues, including clearing and fauna handling procedures, locations of environmentally sensitive areas, and weed identification. Further details regarding staff induction and training are outlined in the CEMP.

7.3 INSPECTIONS

Inspections of sensitive areas and activities with the potential to impact biodiversity will occur for the duration of the Project. Requirements and responsibilities in relation to inspections are documented in the CEMP. Trigger points for Corrective Action Requests include:

• Scours greater than 25 mm deep and 500 m long


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• Failed vegetation patches greater than 1 m2 • Weed populations greater than 10% of revegetation • Ground cover achieves seed set across less than 80% of area • Trees and shrubs achieve less than 80% survival in 12 months

General monitoring requirements include:

• Clearing limit of 1.32 ha, checked monthly • Number of fauna killed or injured, recorded if required • Number of fauna relocated, recorded on a monthly basis • Area of noxious weeds controlled, recorded on a 6-monthly basis • Details of CWD placement, recorded on a monthly basis

7.4 AUDITING

Audits (both internal and external) will be undertaken to assess the effectiveness of environmental controls, compliance with this sub-plan, and compliance with other relevant approvals, licenses and guidelines. Audit requirements are detailed in the CEMP.

7.5 REPORTING

Reporting requirements and responsibilities are documented in Section 8 of the CEMP.

BWFPL will document the outcomes of pre-construction surveys required by the CoAs and SoCs.

CATCON will progressively monitor the clearing of native vegetation, and provide a Compliance Report and mapping to ensure compliance with CoA C1(a) and C1(b).

Any additional mitigation or management measures will be incorporated into Chapter 5 of this plan as required.

8 REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT

8.1 CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Continuous improvement of this CBMP will be achieved by the ongoing evaluation of environmental management performance against environmental policies, objectives and targets for the purpose of identifying opportunities for improvement, as detailed in Section 9.1 of the CEMP.

8.2 CBMP UPDATE AND AMENDMENT

This CBMP will need to be revised whenever the construction program, scope of work, or work methods change, whenever the work methods and control structures are found to be ineffective, or if so directed by the Principal. This will occur as needed and in accordance with the process outlined in Section 9.2 of the CEMP.


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APPENDIX A PRE-CLEARING CHECKLIST Project: BODANGORA WIND FARM Project No:

Requested By:

Habitat Clearing Start Date: Expected Completion Date:

HABITAT CLEARING LOCATIONS – ATTACH DRAWINGS / SKETCHES IF NECESSARY

Location Comments

This section to be completed by Ecologist and HSE Advisor for clearing of trees, logs, rocky features, and other habitat features, with reference to constraints mapping.

Has the limit of clearing been clearly delineated? Yes No

All trees / vegetation / habitat to be retained identified and No-Go Areas fenced off?

Yes No

State how identified:

Have habitat trees been identified and appropriately marked? Yes No N/A

State how identified:

Are specific targeted surveys required? Yes No

State how survey was completed, including results:

Is there a risk of weed infestation or spread? Yes No

Are any animals present? (If Yes, relocation required) Yes No

Are any active nests/burrows present? (If Yes, relocation required) Yes No

If soil disturbance is to occur, has an ERSED Plan been created and have these controls been installed?

Yes No

Have relevant workers been given toolbox talks on limit of clearing, fauna handling procedures and any other SHE Controls?

Yes No

Can habitat features be re-used for habitat enhancement? Yes No


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APPROVALS

Inspection completed by Ecologist:

Ecologist Signature Required

Date:

Approval by HSE Advisor:

HSE Advisor Signature Required

Date:

* Stockpiles must be placed in accordance with the CCAMP.

Can the habitat feature be re-used immediately? Yes No

If not re-used immediately, where will it be stockpiled*?

Comments:


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APPENDIX B TREE CLEARING PROCEDURE

B.1 LOPPING, PRUNING AND TRIMMING PROCEDURE

Heavy machinery should not be used for pruning or trimming. Appropriate tools to use are loppers, chain saws and vehicle mounted saws.

In the first instance, hollow bearing limbs should be retained. If this is not possible the hollow bearing limb should be inspected by the Project Ecologist / suitably qualified expert and placed in adjacent un-disturbed vegetation to provide fauna habitat.

Tree limbs are to be removed using the three cut method as shown below in Figure 1. 1.

Figure 1 – Three cut method

B.2 HOLLOW-BEARING TREE REMOVAL PROCEDURE Hollow-bearing trees are important habitat feature for a variety of native animals such as possums, gliders, birds and bats. Before clearing any hollow-bearing trees, it is important to consider if animals are present. The following procedure is a guide to give animals an opportunity to escape a hollow-bearing tree prior to it being removed.


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B.3 REMOVAL OF TREES OUTSIDE THE APPROVED CLEARING LIMITS

The approved clearing limit is the line between the vegetation to be removed and the vegetation to be retained. It will be shown on all design plans as required. Some construction activities will require tree removal or trimming that has not been included in the design. This is to be avoided where at all possible.

Where additional impacts to trees are proposed, the following process should be followed:

1. The Supervisor should notify the HSE Advisor of the location and need for the tree impact 2. In consultation with the Project Ecologist, the HSE Advisor should confirm that the tree (or other

vegetation type) is not heritage listed, a habitat tree, nominated for retention or protected under relevant legislation and is legally able to be removed and/or trimmed. Alternatives to removing the tree should also be investigated at this stage

3. The HSE Advisor should notify the ER of the works which may require a site visit 4. The Supervisor should await written confirmation from the HSE Advisor prior to re-commencing

works around the tree(s).

Clear other surrounding native vegetation first and allow hollow-bearing trees to

remain standing overnight. After at least one night, hollow-bearing vegetation can be

removed in accordance with the following steps.

Prior to removal, organise a spotter who will look for signs of animal movement in the vegetation to be cleared. Ensure that the

spotter can locate all hollows and that the spotter has direct radio and/or visual

communication with the plant or chainsaw operator.

Before felling the tree, use an excavator or loader to nudge the trunk of the tree as high

as possible several times. Wait at least 30 seconds then repeat the process. This is to allow any animals an opportunity to escape prior to felling the tree. If using a chainsaw, remove some non-hollow-bearing branches first to allow any fauna the opportunity to

escape.

If removing the tree in stages, remove non-hollow-bearing branches first, allowing an

opportunity for animals to escape.

Once the hollow-bearing branches of hollow-bearing tree are on the ground, the spotter must check each hollow for signs of animals

before the next branch/tree is removed.

Keep a record of any animals that manage to escape.

If any injured animals are found, refer to animal handling procedure.


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B.4 RE-USE OF WOODY DEBRIS FOR HABITAT ENHANCEMENT

Felled timber greater than 200 mm and less than 600 mm will be used as Coarse Woody Debris (CWD) for habitat enhancement and to maximize the salvage of resources within the disturbance area for beneficial reuse. CWD can be used to enhance habitat values in existing vegetation and rehabilitated areas including derived native grassland (either in offset areas or areas adjoining impacted areas). CWD can provide:

• Habitat for microinvertebrates • Habitat for macroinvertebrates • Habitat for vertebrates using fallen timber for shelter, e.g. skinks, geckoes, dunnarts • Habitat for vertebrates using fallen timber for foraging, e.g. treecreepers, robins • A source of nutrients for native vegetation • Increased habitat complexity

CWD will be placed as discrete logs rather than in piles to reduce fire risk and potential for use as shelter by feral animals such as foxes and rabbits. CWD will be placed at discrete intervals at densities to ensure that the CWD Benchmark for the receiving PCT is not exceeded. The density of CWD must take into account existing fallen timber. Removal, transportation, and placement of CWD will be carried out in a manner that minimises disturbance to native vegetation, including the canopy, trees, shrubs, standing dead timber, fallen timber, and groundcover, as well as topsoil.

Felled timber greater than 600 mm (primarily tree trunks) will be used as CWD where practicable, or left on site where it is too large to transport.

Woody debris between 10 and 200 mm in diameter will be chipped and used for disturbed area rehabilitation.


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APPENDIX C VEGETATION CLEARANCE PROCEDURE When undertaking vegetation clearing, the following process must be followed to minimise the area of disturbance and the amount of vegetation to be cleared.

* The term vegetation in this procedure means any native trees, shrubs or grassland.

** The term sensitive vegetation refers to native vegetation that is adjacent to and outside of any designed clearing area. Sensitive vegetation will be protected in the field by exclusion fencing and signage (Figure 7-1, Figure 7-2. Exclusion fencing will define the boundary between vegetation to be removed and vegetation to be retained.

Is the vegetation* to be cleared adjacent to vegetation that is not to be disturbed?

Demarcate the sensitive

vegetation** using fencing, flags, guide rope and/or signage.

Does the non-sensitive vegetation

to be removed comprise trees with

hollows?

Refer to the Hollow-bearing tree removal

procedure. Is pruning sufficient?

Prune the minimal amount of branches

and foliage.

Clear removed vegetation to a disturbed area.

Remove the vegetation.

Stockpile removed vegetation in an approved area.

YES

NO

NO

NO

YES

YES


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Figure 7-1 Example of exclusion zone signage.

Figure 7-2 Example of exclusion zone fencing.


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APPENDIX D VEGETATION CLEARANCE REGISTER Location Vegetation

Community Area cleared (ha)

Number of habitat trees removed

Tree coordinates Tree species Tree sizes (DBH, m)

Hollow details (size, shape, height, evidence of fauna)


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APPENDIX E FAUNA HANDLING PROCEDURE The following procedure is derived from information provided by the NSW Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) and the RTA’s Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects.

Any nests found in habitat features to be removed should be inspected by the Ecologist to determine whether fauna are using the nest, and whether relocation of the fauna and the nest to an adjacent area is viable.

As a general principle, any native animals found with the construction area should be avoided. Fauna should only be handled by a qualified ecologist or wildlife carer with relevant skills and experience (e.g. snake handling), and only when absolutely necessary.

Any onsite protected fauna found within a habitat feature to be removed should be captured and relocated according to the following steps. Any onsite protected fauna injured during a construction activity should be captured and a wildlife handler (WIRES) or vet contacted.

Step 1

Remove any threat to the animal that could cause or exacerbate an injury.

Step 2

Use appropriate equipment to capture the animal. This may include:

• Frogs: disposable gloves, disinfectant on hands and equipment between animals, disposable plastic bags (one per animal, one use only)

• Mammals: gloves, cloth bags/cotton pillow slips, up-to-date Australian Bat Lyssavirus vaccinations

Step 3

Contain the animal to minimise stress. Gently place the animal in a holding box specifically designed for holding animals. Cotton pillowslips may be used to cover mammals, or mammals may be placed inside them. Boxes should be placed in a quiet, safe, dark location (not in a vehicle unless temperature is constantly monitored). Do not give the animal food or water.

Step 5

Call WIRES on 1300 556 686, who will provide advice on what to do until a trained WIRES rescuer can come to take the animal away. If you cannot contact WIRES, contact Wellington Veterinary Hospital on 02 6845 2872.

Step 6

Release fauna into similar habitats, as near as possible to their capture location. Diurnal (day-active) fauna should be released during the day of capture. Nocturnal (night-active) fauna should be released at or after dusk. Arboreal fauna should be slowly released from their bag onto the trunk of a tree, with bats and gliders placed on a tree with rough or peeling bark and hollows.

Step 7

Details of fauna captured and relocated should be recorded in the following register. Any injury or death of a threatened species should be reported to the HSE Advisor.


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Date Species Location and time captured

Location and time released

Behaviour and condition on release

Details of any injuries/ death

Contact details of vet/wildlife handler if transferred to their care


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APPENDIX F UNEXPECTED THREATENED SPECIES FIND PROCEDURE

Threatened flora or fauna species unexpectedly encountered

Stop WorkNotify the HSE Advisor

HSE Advisor to arrange for ecologist to conduct

assessment of significance of the likely impact, develop management options, and notify OEH, DPI and DEE as

necessary

Is an impact likely to occur?

Recommence works and maintain regular

inspections

Consult with OEH, DPI and DEE as

appropriate

Obtain approvals, licences or permits as

required

Recommence works once advise is sought

and necessary approvals, licences or permits are obtained

Include species in subsequent induction,

toolbox talks and update the CEMP

YES NO


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APPENDIX G REMOVAL OF REPTILE HABITAT PROCEDURE

The following procedure outlines the activities to be undertaken prior to stripping the ground (removing tussocky grassland and surface rocks) in areas considered to have a high potential for threatened reptiles.

Prior to stripping, check the relevant drawing to see if the

works are to occur in areas with potential habitat for threatened

reptiles.

If works are to occur in potential habitat for threatened

species, then arrange for an ecologist to visit the area.

Have the ecologist walk through the area to check for the

presence of threatened reptiles species prior to stripping.

Have the ecologist remove and relocate any threatened reptile species that are found in the

tussocky grass or under surface rocks.

Have the ecologist remain on site during the stripping operation, just in case a

threatened reptile is found.


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APPENDIX H WEED MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE

H.1 NOXIOUS WEEDS Seven noxious weeds were identified within the project area which are declared under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. All of these weeds are listed as Class 4 weeds within the Western Plains Local Control Authority Area, which requires that their growth and spread be controlled. The EA lists the implementation of weed control measures to ensure invasive weed problems are not exacerbated in the Statement of Commitments. A brief identification and management guide based on NSW WeedWise profiles for these species is provided below. Once these weeds are identified within the construction area, they should be marked up on relevant drawings.

African Boxthorn Lycium ferrocissimum

African Boxthorn is an erect perennial shrub growing up to 5 m high, with woody, thorny growth, white flowers and orange-red berries. The effective, long-term control of this species generally requires the integration of a number of techniques, including mechanical removal, cultivation, and herbicide application. Control is more effective and economical if done when plants are young. Removal of roots is more effective when the soil is moist. Foliar spray is the most commonly used control method, and basal bark or cut stump treatments are appropriate in environmentally sensitive areas.

Bathurst Burr Xanthium spinosum

African Boxthorn is a compact annual herb, with dark green leaves, three-pronged, yellowish spines at the base of each leaf or branch, and burrs up to 1.5 cm with hooked spines. Cultivation is an effective method of controlling seedlings. Foliar herbicides are most effective if plants are young and actively growing. Follow-up control of small areas can be achieved with slashing or chipping.


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Blackberry Rubus fruticosus

Blackberry is a scrambling shrub with tangled, prickly stems than form impenetrable thickets several metres high, and white or pink flowers and black fruit. Herbicides are the most reliable method of achieving local eradication of blackberry. The optimal time for treatment is during the active growth stage (December to March) on days when the temperature is less than 30 °C. This can be used in combination with physical control of small infestations, biological control using the leaf rust fungus Phragmidium violaceum, pasture control, and grazing, particularly by goats.

Noogoora Burr Xanthium occidentale

Noogoora Burr is a stout, erect plant, with large leaves similar to grape leaves, mottled and hairy purple/green leaves, and hard, woody egg-shaped burrs with hooked spines. Prevention of seed set is the most important part of managing this weed, with six years of preventing seed set leading to a 99% population decline in trials. Large populations can be treated with herbicides (most effective when plants are young and actively growing), cultivation or slashing, with follow-up control of regrowth treated with spot spraying or chipping.

Prickly Pear Opuntia stricta

Prickly Pear is an erect succulent shrub, with fleshy bluish-green segments covered in tufts of short, fine bristles, yellow flowers, and reddish-purple fruit. This weed is primarily managed with biological controls, cactoblastis Cactoblastis cactorum and cochineal Dactylopius opuntiae, and is also controlled by physical removal and herbicides.


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Sweet Briar Rosa rubiginosa

Sweet Briar is an erect perennial shrub growing up to 3 m high, with woody stems, numerous flat, backward-curving thorns, pinnate leaves with an apple-like scent, pink or white flowers, and orange-red fruit. The effective, long-term control of this species generally requires the integration of a number of techniques, including mechanical removal, pasture management, grazing management, and herbicide application. Control is more effective and economical if done when plants are young. Foliar spray is the most commonly used control method, and is most effective when soil moisture is adequate and the plant is actively growing, and a systematic approach is used, spraying from the top to the base of the bush. In environmentally sensitive areas, basal bark or cut stump treatments with an appropriate herbicide mixed with diesel.

Tree-of-heaven Ailanthus altissima

Tree-of-heaven is a deciduous tree or shrub growing up to 20 m high, with greyish bark, small white or yellow-green flowers in clusters, and dark green leaves that turn yellow in autumn. Control of this species is difficult, requiring removal of seeds, roots, and stumps, and poisoning of every stem with an appropriate herbicide. Repeat treatments will be required for regrowth for several years. Mechanical removal of mature trees, unless wet, will cause suckering from the broken roots, even using the cut-and-paint method.

H.2 EXCLUSION ZONES

Prior to any clearing/grubbing the HSE Advisor will undertake a joint inspection with the Project Ecologist to establish clearing exclusion zones focusing on areas of threatened ecological communities as identified on the most current set of project Sensitive Area Plans. This can be carried out concurrently with the joint inspection for weeds.

H.3 WEED INSPECTION

The HSE Advisor will undertake a ‘joint inspection’ with the Project Ecologist to inspect the area for noxious weeds and other weeds as required:


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• Prior to clearing and grubbing • When a potential weed infestation has been identified • Before spring (around August) to identify weeds before they go to flower and seed.

Infestations of noxious weeds and WONS will be mapped with GPS by the Project Ecologist during the joint inspection including noting the specie(s) degree of infestation and capturing an image for monitoring purposes.

H.4 WEED TREATMENT

A general guide to weed control and management is presented above. More detailed information, including herbicide types and application rates, can be sought from the Project Ecologist or from the WeedWise website (http://weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/). .

H.5 PESTICIDE APPLICATION RECORD

Pesticide application is to be administered by authorised personnel only (i.e. ChemCert Accreditation – AQF 3), in accordance with SafeWork requirements.

Pesticides will only be applied in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for that product.

A Pesticide Application Record will be completed and public notifications made in accordance with relevant legislation, where pesticides are to be used in areas that could be accessed by members of the public.

Only pesticides registered for use near water may be used near any waterways.

H.6 FOLLOW-UP INSPECTION

The HSE Advisor will ensure that a follow-up inspection is undertaken of identified weed infestation sites to ensure treatment was successful.

Where weeds cannot be effectively destroyed prior to topsoil stripping, weed contaminated topsoil will be isolated and either encapsulated by deep burying, or disposed of at an approved offsite licensed facility as directed by the HSE Advisor.

H.7 VEHICLE, PLANT & EQUIPMENT MOVEMENT

To prevent the spread of weeds through the construction site and surrounding areas, the movement of weed-contaminated plant and equipment will be monitored by the Supervisor. The Supervisor will ensure that all plant and machinery that enter the site is inspected and free of weeds. Plant and equipment will be checked and cleaned before leaving a worksite that contains noxious weeds. Plant and equipment leaving the site will be cleaned so as to be free of soil and vegetation. This will occur in the plant washdown area in the main compound. Any water from this washdown area will be directed to compound water quality pond.

Records of all construction plant screen checks will be recorded on a Mobile Plant Inspection Checklist and monitored by the Supervisor.

http://weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/


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H.8 WEED DISPOSAL

Where noxious weed areas are disturbed by construction activities, weeds and topsoil potentially containing weed propagules will be removed and disposed of, as required by the Waste Management Protocol (Appendix H). Any weeds physically removed (particularly those bearing seeds) will be disposed of appropriately at a licenced facility in accordance with the Noxious Weeds Act 1993.

H.9 ONGOING MANAGEMENT & MONITORING

Monitoring or weed infestations will occur as part of the routine weekly inspections to determine effectiveness of management controls. The presence of any weeds and the necessary management actions will be noted on the Environmental Inspection Checklist (refer to the CEMP).


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APPENDIX I PESTICIDE APPLICATION RECORD


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APPENDIX J WORKING CLOSE TO BOUNDARY PROCEDURE

The following procedure outlines some mitigation measures to be applied when working in close proximity to the boundary of the wind farm construction footprint.

Prior to the construction of each section of work, check

the relevant drawing to determine if the access road

or hardstand is in close proximity to the development

boundary.

If the access road or hardstand is within 50m of the development boundary,

check and mark out the development boundary.

Erect temporary NO ENTRY signs every 20m along the

marked development boundary.

During pre-start meetings, remind site personnel of the NO ENTRY rule when working

close to the development boundary.

If work outside of the development boundary is

required in order to prevent harm to the environment,

such work must be approved by the Site Manager.


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APPENDIX K CONSTRAINTS MAPPING High resolution constraint maps are provided electronically as PDFs and shape files to design and construction teams.


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Figure 7-3: Constraints map of sector 1, south-western project area (draft map).


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Figure 7-4: Constraints map of sector 2, north-western project area (draft map).


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Figure 7-5: Constraints map of sector 3, central project area.


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Figure 7-6: Constraints map of sector 4, south-eastern project area (draft map).


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APPENDIX L CBMP AGENCY CONSULTATION Draft plan sent to the Office of Environment and Heritage 22 February 2017.

A response was received from the Office of Environment and Heritage on 30 May 2017.

Issue ID

Council Comment/Issue Response Where addressed

1 The CBMP must specifically address each individual requirement under Condition E21(f).

Each of the requirements have been addressed in the plan and they are detailed throughout the plan.

Section 3.1.3

2 The CBMP should detail the procedures that will be implemented during construction, to demonstrate how the commitments made in the EA and the requirements of the Approval Conditions are addressed.

Additional details have been inserted to table 5.1 Section 6

3 Section 5 of the CBMP should be revised to include detail of the actions taken/or to be taken to meet each requirement of the project approval. Where the detail is contained in another document, that document should be referenced by name and be available for review.

Table 5.1 has been updated to include details of measures to be implemented.

Section 6

4 To satisfy condition C4 and condition E21(f)(ii), the final CEMP must clearly identify the areas to be disturbed (and the final turbine locations specifically) and demonstrate how the final turbine locations will not give rise to increased vegetation impacts. This could be achieved by

The constraints mapping now shows the location, coordinates and distance moved of turbines prior to and post micro-siting.

The CEMP at appendix L provides an assessment of micro-siting impacts. The Approach to Compliance With Conditions of Approval C1, E21 (Draft) details the calculated clearing impact.

Constraints mapping

CEMP at appendix L

Approach to Compliance With Conditions of Approval C1, E21 (Draft)


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a Utilising the vegetation data gathered by the proponent to:

i Demonstrate that the project will clear no more than 1.32 hectares of native vegetation (as required by Condition C1)

Limit of clearing added to section with targets. Included reference to calculated vegetation removal based on May 2017 design at 1.17 ha (from Approach to Compliance With Conditions of Approval C1, E21 (Draft)). Requirement for monthly monitoring of clearing against clearing limit specified.

Sections 2.3, 4.4, 6.3

ii Summarise the area of each PCT (with corresponding condition state) that will be impacted.

Area of each condition state and area to be impacted based on May 2017 design summarised.

Section 4.4 (Table 4.2).

b Supply of a list of infrastructure identifying which items have been moved and whether this represents an increase or decrease in native vegetation or other habitat impacts. This should be supported by fine scale maps depicting the location changes.

Information included as part of micro-siting table in Appendix L of CEMP.

CEMP Appendix L

c Including larger scale maps where proposed infrastructure will impact on native vegetation, such that the relationship between the disturbance area and the native vegetation can be understood.

High resolution constraints mapping has been produced in A1 format. It will be supplied to design teams an site staff.

The high res mapping is to large for inclusion in the CBMP and will be forwarded separately.

Section 6.1, Constraints Mapping

d Specifying the maximum clearing distances applied for various infrastructure. It should also be clear whether any asset protection zones related to bushfire management have been included in micro-siting considerations and clearing calculations.

Clearing distances have been added to section 4.4 Section 4.4

5 All Environmental Work Method Statements (EWMS) documents should be thoroughly checked for inconsistencies

Noted.


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and procedural gaps. Regarding those EWMS supplied with the current CBMP specifically:

a The Pre-clearing Checklist should reference the ‘constraints map’ as necessary.

Added need for Ecologist and HSE Advisor to reference constraints mapping.

Appendix A

b The clearing related procedures require clarification in relation to how, and under what circumstances, fauna or nests would be handled and potentially relocated.

Fauna found in habitat features to be removed or injured during a construction activity should be captured and relocated. Nests found in habitat features to be removed should be assessed by the Ecologist to determine potential for relocation.

Appendix E

d The Fauna Handling Procedure should: N/A

i Describe the procedure for the capture and relocation of animals that emerge from felled trees or other habitat features and are captured and released in surrounding habitat areas. This should include specific release procedures for nocturnal versus diurnal species.

Discussed in Fauna handling procedure, including diurnal animals released on same day as capture and nocturnal animals released at or after dusk on same day.

Appendix E

ii Require captured animals (injured or not) to be held in a holding box specifically designed for holding animals.

Discussed in Fauna handling procedure. Appendix E

iii Specify that cotton pillowslips may be used to cover animals or animals may be placed inside them.


iv Specify that boxes with animals in them should be placed in a safe, quiet, cool location and not in a vehicle unless the temperate in the vehicle is constantly monitored.



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e The Vegetation Clearance Procedure should specifically define what is meant by ‘sensitive vegetation’ and ‘important vegetation that must be retained’.

Sensitive vegetation identified as native vegetation that is adjacent to and outside of any designed clearing area. Reference to important vegetation removed.

Appendix C

f The Noxious Weeds Procedure should be renamed and include the management of both noxious and other potentially occurring non-noxious weed species.

Procedure updated to include other weeds but the focus of the procedure is the legal requirement to control noxious weeds. Opening the procedure to all weeds is to open ended.

See Appendix H3

g The Tree Clearing Procedure should include a definition of ‘approved clearing limit’.

Approved clearing limit defined as the line between the vegetation to be removed and the vegetation to be retained.

Appendix B (B.3)

6 The proponent should consider the content of the ‘Biodiversity Guidelines – Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects’1 when developing and amending the EWMS documents.

Biodiversity Guideline added to guidelines section and used to inform Procedures.

3.1.2

Procedures

8 The constraints map should be referenced within Section 5 of the CBMP. The CBMP should clearly articulate how the constraints maps have been used in micro-siting and how they will be used during construction. Any interaction between the constraints map and the procedures in the EWMS documents should be clearly demonstrated.

Section on constraints mapping and use added to Section 6. 5.1

9 To address Condition C2, the CBMP must detail how tree trunks and major branches from cleared trees will be used to enhance habitat in rehabilitated areas or in derived native grassland.

Section added on use of woody debris in rehabilitation. Appendix B (B.4)


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10 To address Condition E21(f)(iii) the CBMP must include a description of the measures that would be implemented for rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas and maximising the salvage of resources within the disturbance area for beneficial reuse.

Section added on use of woody debris in rehabilitation.

Targets and monitoring requirements for revegetation listed.

Appendix B (B.4)

2.3, 6.3

11 The CBMP should specify the quantitative performance targets and measures, completion criteria, and trigger points for corrective action that will be implemented in rehabilitating the disturbance areas.

Specific targets and triggers for Corrective Action Requests defined.

2.3, 6.3

12 To support the monitoring and reporting proposed, the proponent should consider defining specific, measurable performance criteria and targets within the CBMP where ever possible. These should be linked to associated trigger points for corrective actions as necessary.

Specific targets and triggers for Corrective Action Requests defined, including:

• Scours greater than 25 mm deep and 500 m long • Failed vegetation patches greater than 1 m2 • Weed populations greater than 10% of revegetation • Ground cover achieves seed set across less than 80%

of area • Trees and shrubs achieve less than 80% survival in 12

months • Clearing limit of 1.32 ha, checked monthly • Number of fauna killed or injured, recorded if required • Number of fauna relocated, recorded on a monthly

basis • Area of noxious weeds controlled, recorded on a 6-

monthly basis • Details of CWD placement, recorded on a monthly

basis

2.3, 6.3


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Department of Planning and Environment Review 14 June 2017 Response to recommended action recorded in Green

Construction Biodiversity Management Plan Condition E21(f), Schedule E Satisfactory

(Yes/No) Comment

Recommended Action

(f) a Construction Biodiversity Management Plan to detail how construction impacts on biodiversity will be minimised and managed. This plan must be prepared in consultation with OEH and must:

Yes Construction Biodiversity Management Plan (CBMP) (Draft Version 2) submitted on 6 June 2017. Evidence of consultation with OEH provided in Appendix L. Appendix L also includes a table, which discusses how the matters raised by OEH have been addressed in CBMP. The majority of the matters raised appear to have been adequately addressed in the updated CBMP (refer to comments below for residual issues).

Nil

i. include baseline mapping of the vegetation communities and key fauna habitat on the site, including detailed maps of the transmission line corridor;

Yes Baseline and constraints maps provided at Figure 4-1 and in Appendix K. The maps do not indicate the location of key fauna habitat on site (refer to same comment made by OEH).

• Revise Figure 4-1 and constraints maps in Appendix K to identify the location of key fauna habitat on site.

Maps updated Kevin Mills identifies the following as key fauna habitat: Remnant trees and stands of woodland (which includes hbt’s) extensive rock outcrops associated with the granite country in the central and southern parts of the study area, particularly on Glen Oak, dam on Glen Oak. Maps also provided as PDFs and shape files to design and construction teams.

ii. clearly identify the areas on site that would be disturbed;

No Vegetation clearing defined in Folder 1, Sub-section 3 of the CEMP and Section 4.5 of the CBMP (estimated at 1.17 ha, which is less than the approved limit of 1.32 ha). Vegetation clearance procedure provided in Appendix C. Constraints maps do not define the clearing limits.

• Define the clearing limits and exclusion zones on a series of figures.

Clearing limits will be detailed on design drawings as they are prepared. Any other scales not readable. Survey teams use these files and GPS to mark exclusion zones on the ground. CATCON have committed to: a) Identifying/mapping clearing limits on

the construction drawings


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b) keeping a working document that details progressive clearing of the area of native vegetation (this is already in BMP)

c) clearly identify the areas of native vegetation on site that would be disturbed via a combination of detailed construction drawings and where necessary site marking (eg. para-webbing). This meets the intent of the condition (this is already in BMP).

CATCON can provide progressive updates to OEH and/or DP&E in relation to impacts on native vegetation.

iii. include a description of the measures that would be implemented for: minimising the amount of native

vegetation clearing within the approved development footprint;

minimising the impacts on fauna on site, including minimising impacts on tree hollows, undertaking pre-clearance surveys and maintaining a vegetation clearance register;

managing potential indirect impacts on threatened flora and fauna species;

rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas;

protecting vegetation and fauna habitat outside the approved disturbance area;

maximising the salvage of resources within the approved disturbance area – including vegetative and soil resources – for beneficial reuse (including fauna habitat enhancement) during the rehabilitation and revegetation of the site;

controlling weeds and feral pests; controlling erosion; controlling access; and bushfire management; and

No Management measures for flora and fauna are provided in Table 6-1. Rehabilitation and revegetation Appendix A to J include a range of procedures and registers to minimise impacts on fauna and fauna, The CBMP does not include a description of the measures that would be implemented for rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas (refer to same comment made by OEH).

• Include greater detail of the measures that would be implemented for rehabilitating and revegetating temporary disturbance areas. New Section 5 added to CBMP and includes details for rehabilitation and revegetation including: Topsoiling Seeding with the same pasture species as occurs in the areas disturbed. List native seed mix for area List non native seed mix Use of mulch to stabilise areas after seeding. Use of jute matting in steep terrain or concentrated flow lines. Use of fertiliser as required Use of watering by exception Follow up weed control.

iv. include a detailed program to monitor and report on the effectiveness of the above

Yes Review and improvement of plan described in Section 7. Nil


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measures. General comments Section 1.3 – incorrect reference to the SWMP. Correction Made Tables 3-1and 5-1 – indicate that the Biodiversity Offset Package is provided in Section 5 of the CBMP, which is not the case. A standalone Offset Package is being

prepared for submission to both OEH and DPE. Table 3-1 – source reference error on page 6. Corrected Section 4.1 – source reference error 4th para. Corrected


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Documents

Construction Biodiversity Management Plan€¦ · CAQMP Construction Air Quality Management Plan CBMP Construction Biodiversity Management Plan CCAMP Construction Compound and Ancillary