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Aurecon 21 December 2011 Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli- guilielmi Wide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRF
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Aurecon

21 December 2011

Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRF

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Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiFalseWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRFFalse

Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRF

Prepared for

Aurecon

Prepared by

AECOM Australia Pty LtdLevel 8, 540 Wickham Street, PO Box 1307, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, AustraliaT +61 7 3553 2000 F +61 7 3553 2050 www.aecom.com20 093 846 92520 093 846 925

21 December 2011

60162199

AECOM in Australia and New Zealand is certified to the latest version of ISO9001 and ISO14001.AECOM in Australia and New Zealand is certified to the latest version of ISO9001 and ISO14001.

TrueAECOM Australia Pty LtdAECOMGeneralAECOMAECOMAECOMAECOMAECOMAECOM

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AECOM

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Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiFalseWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRFFalse

Quality InformationDocument Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi

Ref 60162199

Date 21 December 2011

Prepared by

Reviewed by Alan House

Revision History

Revision Revision Date

DetailsAuthorised

Name/Position Signature

0 13-Dec-201 Draft for commentTechnical Director

1 21-Dec-2011 Final Christina Bicksler - Project Director

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AECOM

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Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiFalseWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRFFalse

Table of ContentsGlossary of Terms i1.0 Introduction 12.0 Pineapple Zamia (Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi) 23.0 Relevant Legislation 3

3.1 Australian Government 33.2 State Government 4

4.0 Aims and Objectives 64.1 Consultation 6

5.0 Description of Impact and Translocation Sites 75.1 Impact Site 75.2 Translocation Sites 7

6.0 Translocation Methods 96.1 Relocation 96.2 Propagation 10

7.0 Maintenance 127.1 Site Preparation 127.2 Maintenance of Translocated Plants 127.3 Weed Management 12

7.3.1 Weed Hygiene 137.3.2 Weed Monitoring 137.3.3 Weed Control 14

7.4 Animal Management 147.5 Fire Management 14

8.0 Monitoring and Evaluation 168.1 Translocation Site Monitoring 168.2 Post-translocation Monitoring 168.3 Performance and Completion Criteria 17

9.0 Plan Implementation, Reporting and Review 199.1 Implementation 199.2 Schedule 199.3 Reporting 209.4 Review 20

10.0 Securing of Translocation Site 2111.0 Mitigation Measures for Adjacent Populations 2212.0 References 23

Appendix AFigures A

List of Tables

Table 1: Parameters for Monitoring of Translocation Site 16Table 2: Parameters for Monitoring of Translocated Plants and Reference Site Plants 16Table 3: Performance Criteria 17Table 4: Timing of Site Preparation / Maintenance Activities 19Table 5: Timing of Translocation Activities 19Table 6: Timing of Monitoring Activities 20

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Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiFalseWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRFFalse

Glossary of Terms

DEH Commonwealth Department of Environment and Heritage (now DSEWPC)

DERM Queensland Environment and Resource Management (previously the Departments of DNRW and EPA)

DEWR Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Water Resources (now DSEWPC)

DEWHA Commonwealth Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (previously DEWR and DEH)

DNRW Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Water (now part of DERM)

DSEWPC Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

EPA Queensland Environmental Protection Agency (now part of DERM)

EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

EVNT Endangered, Vulnerable and Near Threatened (threatened flora species)

GPS Global Positioning System

KP Kilometre Point

NC Act Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992

Propagation Production of plants from seeds or vegetative propagative material (e.g. cuttings, tissue culture)

RE Regional Ecosystem

Relocation Process of transferring existing plants from one location to another

ROW Right of Way

Translocation Process of transferring plants from one location to another (includes relocation and propagation)

VM Act Queensland Vegetation Management Act 1999

WBTA Wide Bay Training Area

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Translocation Program for Macrozamia pauli-guilielmiFalseWide Bay Training Area DEOS MIRFFalse

1.0 IntroductionDefence is undertaking a program of works at the Wide Bay Training Area (WBTA) as part of the ELF 2C initiative, including the proposed construction of a Defence Explosive Ordnance Minor Retail Facility (DEOS MIRF) in an area of remnant vegetation (Figure F1). Previous surveys of the site by AECOM identified two populations of pineapple zamia (Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi), which is listed as Endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act). The original development footprint contained approximately 250 individuals in two populations. The development was subsequently redesigned, so that the revised footprint is estimated to contain only about 50 individuals in about 200 m2 of habitat (Figure F2).

Defence has requested AECOM to prepare a permit under the EPBC Act to move a listed threatened species (pineapple zamia) in a Commonwealth area. This permit is required for activities which may kill, injure, take, trade, keep or move a member of a listed threatened species or ecological community, a member of a listed migratory species, or a member of a listed marine species in or on a Commonwealth area. This translocation program forms part of the permit application.

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2.0 Pineapple Zamia (Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi)Pineapple zamia is a small cycad, consisting of one to eight leaves up to 1 m long and an underground stem up to 25 cm long by 20 cm across (Jones, 1993, Forster and Holland, 2007). Adult plants can resprout from the underground stem after loss of above-ground foliage from fire. Reproduction is often linked to fire events, with many female plants producing cones two years after a fire. However, seedlings and unburied seeds are usually killed by fire. Pineapple zamia seeds generally ripen in March to April. Fresh seeds will not germinate for 12 months, due to a delayed fertilisation process (Norstog and Nicholls, 1997; in Forster and Holland, 2007).

The National Multi-species Recovery Plan for Cycads (Forster and Holland, 2007) estimated the total population of pineapple zamia to be at least 13,131 adult individuals with a total area of occupancy of at least 35 ha. Known populations cover an area of about 120 km by 40 km in at least 27 populations, ranging from a single adult to over 3,600 individuals. However, the ecology and distribution of pineapple zamia is poorly known, so population numbers quoted in the recovery plan are likely to underestimate the total numbers considerably. For example, no populations were recorded within the WBTA, which contains extensive areas of suitable habitat in relatively undisturbed condition. A threatened flora survey at WBTA by Parsons Brinckerhoff in 2003 (PB, 2003) identified over 800 pineapple zamias in 23 locations. This figure is also likely to be an underestimate as three of the four populations identified in surveys by AECOM (2010, 2011) were not detected in the 2003 survey. Known populations of pineapple zamia within WBTA are mapped in Figure F3. It is likely that other populations remain undiscovered in the training area. The total known population of pineapple zamias, including individuals recorded in WBTA, is 14,744.

Pineapple zamia is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act and the Queensland NC Act. It has a restricted distribution between Childers and Noosa in Southeast Queensland. Its habitat comprises areas of low relief on deep sandy soils or on low, gravelly or shaly ridges in open forest communities with dense heath or shrubby understoreys (Halford, 2001).

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3.0 Relevant Legislation

3.1 Australian GovernmentMacrozamia pauli-guilielmi is listed as an Endangered species under the Commonwealth EPBC Act. It is an offence to take an action that has or will have a significant impact on a threatened species, other than those exceptions listed under sections 19 and 197 of the EPBC Act. Chapter 5, Part 13, Division 5a outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Commonwealth in the development and implementation of recovery plans for threatened species. A national recovery plan had been prepared for the management of Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi and several other Endangered cycad species in northern Australia (Forster and Holland, 2007).

The Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPC) has released a consultation draft of an Environmental Offsets Policy that outlines the Australian Government’s framework on the use of environmental offsets under the EPBC Act. This policy will be finalised in the near future (the public comment period closed on 21 October 2011) and will replace the previous draft policy (DEWR, 2007). The policy focuses on the use of offsets under Part 9 (Approval of Actions) of the EPBC Act and aims to ensure that offsets deliver high-quality conservation outcomes for matters protected under the Act. Offsets are defined as measures to compensate for environmental impacts that cannot be adequately reduced through avoidance or mitigation (i.e. residual impacts).

Although some changes may occur following consideration of public submissions, the draft policy identifies that suitable offsets must:

- Deliver an outcome that improves or maintains the viability of the environmental aspect that is protected by the EPBC Act and that is impacted by the proposed activity;

- Be efficient, transparent, proportionate, scientifically robust and reasonable;

- Be built around direct offsets but may include indirect offsets;

- Be of a size and scale proportionate to the impacts being offset;

- Be in proportion to the level of statutory protection for the impacted species or community;

- Effectively manage the risks of the offset not succeeding; and

- Have transparent governance arrangements, including ability to be readily measured, monitored, audited and enforced.

DSEWPC is developing an offset assessment guide that will allow quantitative assessment of offset requirements, based on calculations of offset points.

Factors that will be used in calculations include:

- Conservation status of the protected species or community;

- Duration of the impact;

- Condition of the impacted habitat;

- Proximity of offset site to impact site;

- Contribution of the offset site to ecological connectivity;

- Time period between impact and offset that delivers an ecological benefit; and

- Incidental benefits to other species or communities that are not impacted by the proposed development.

The EPBC Act requires a permit for activities which may kill, injure, take, trade, keep or move an Endangered species in a Commonwealth area.

Permits will only be issued if:

1) The activity contributes significantly to the conservation of the species.

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2) The impact of the activity on the species is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the taking of the activity

The taking of the activity will not adversely affect the survival or recovery in nature of the species;

The taking of the activity is not inconsistent with a recovery plan that is in force for the species; and

The holder of the permit will take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of the activity on the species.

3) The specified activity is of particular significance to indigenous tradition, and will not adversely affect the survival or recovery in nature of the conservation status of the species; or

4) The specified activity is necessary in order to control pathogens, and is conducted in a way that will, so far as is practicable, keep to a minimum any impact on the species.

A permit is required in accordance with the second provision, as the proposed development will have an incidental impact on pineapple zamias on Commonwealth land. Impacts will be minimised by mitigation measures outlined in a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), including refinement of the development footprint to reduce clearing of pineapple zamia habitat, construction controls to minimise accidental and indirect impacts on adjacent habitat and inductions to ensure all construction personnel are aware of environmental constraints and comply with relevant controls. Residual impacts will be offset by the development and implementation of an offset plan that is consistent with the relevant recovery plan for Endangered cycads (Forster and Holland, 2007).

3.2 State GovernmentAs Defence is part of the Commonwealth, it is not bound by State legislation. However, under the Defence Instructions (General) ADMIN 40-2 Clause 17 “Defence aims to comply with State, Territory and Local Government environmental legislation and requirements to the extent that these do not conflict with Commonwealth legislative obligations”. Consequently, State legislation is considered in the development of the offset plan, although specific permits and management plans may not be required for actions in Defence land.

Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi is considered to be Endangered under the Queensland NC Act. Section 73 of the NC Act states that a protected species is to be managed for the conservation of the species and its values and any use of a protected species is to be ecologically sustainable. A conservation plan may be prepared for a protected species under Part 7 of the Act.

The Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) has prepared a biodiversity offsets policy (3 October 2011) as a specific-issue offsets policy, consistent with the Queensland Government Environmental Offsets Policy. This policy applies when a decision maker determines that development impacts on an area with State significant biodiversity values cannot be avoided or minimised.

The Queensland Government Environmental Offsets Policy identifies seven guiding principles for offsets:

1) Offsets will not replace or undermine existing environmental standards or regulatory requirements, or be used to allow development in areas otherwise prohibited through legislation or policy.

2) Environmental impacts must first be avoided, then minimised, before considering the use of offsets for any remaining impact.

3) Offsets must achieve an equivalent outcome (i.e. no net loss) or better environmental outcome (i.e. net gain).

4) Offsets must provide environmental values as similar as possible to those being lost (i.e. like for like).

5) Offset provision should minimise the time-lag between the impact and delivery of the offset.

6) Offsets must provide additional protection to environmental values at risk, or additional management actions to improve environmental values.

7) Offsets must be legally secured for the duration of the offset requirement.

A biodiversity offset is defined as “an action undertaken to counterbalance an impact that causes a loss of biodiversity values”.

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Offsets may be applied to a variety of biodiversity impacts, including impacts to threatened flora and fauna species, essential remnant and regrowth habitat for threatened species, significant wetlands, mapped watercourses, and significant Regional Ecosystem (RE) values (e.g. areas of remnant and regrowth Endangered and Of Concern REs, critically limited REs, threshold REs). DERM has developed a set of offset rules to determine appropriate offsets for impacts to biodiversity.

For Endangered flora, the offset must:

- Be within the known or historical distribution of the species being offset;

- Be in an area which contains the conditions necessary for the survival of the species being offset (e.g. sunlight, water availability, soil type, position in the landscape);

- Demonstrate like for like for the species being cleared (i.e. replacing the impacted species with the same species in the offset area);

- Achieve a net conservation gain for the species affected, using an offset ratio of at least 1:5 (i.e. replant 5 plants for each plant cleared);

- Be replaced in an area that is likely to be viable and display the inter-relationships the species needs to survive;

- Have a management plan that clearly identifies how the offset area will be managed to ensure a self-sustaining wild plant population is created; and

- Be consistent with the requirements of an approved recovery plan for the species, as well as the Nature Conservation (Protected Plants) Conservation Plan 2000.

A Clearing Permit under the NC Act is required to remove or translocate Endangered plants in the wild. A permit will be issued only if:

- The applicant is the landholder (or has the approval of the landholder);

- The removal will not adversely affect the survival of the species in the wild; and

- Measures to avoid, mitigate and offset impacts have been investigated and developed.

Sections 29 and 30 of the Nature Conservation (Protected Plants) Conservation Plan 2000 outline the restrictions and conditions on grant of clearing permits. The permit holder must complete a return of operations within 28 days after the clearing is completed or the permit expires. The return of operations should include an estimate of the number of protected plants destroyed, methods used to dispose of plants and the number of plants successfully transplanted.

The Code of Practice for the Taking and Use of Protected Plants (EPA, 2001) provides standards for the taking, keeping and use of protected plants in Queensland.

The code specifies standards for:

- Conduct of people involved in the taking and use of protected plants;

- Techniques for collection of plant parts and whole plants taken from the wild;

- Techniques for transporting and handling whole plants or plant parts to ensure maximum survival; and

- Meeting the legislative requirement that plant harvesting is ecologically sustainable.

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4.0 Aims and ObjectivesA translocation program involves the following steps:

- Translocation site selection;

- Translocation of plants from impacted area;

- Propagation of plants from collected seeds; and

- Maintenance and monitoring.

Objectives of the translocation (offset) management plan include:

- A net gain in numbers of the species (by following a 1:5 offset ratio – see 3.2 above);

- A net gain in the area of habitat for the species; and

- Improvement in the long-term protection and viability of the species in the wild.

4.1 ConsultationIndividuals who provided valuable advice and assistance during the preparation of this plan include:

- , Principal Botanist, Queensland Herbarium - co-author of the cycad recovery plan (Forster and Holland, 2007).

- , Australian Natives, Central Queensland - specialist in translocation, seed collection and propagation of cycads.

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5.0 Description of Impact and Translocation Sites5.1 Impact SiteThe proposed location of the DEOS MIRF site currently contains uncleared remnant vegetation. Sections of the proposed access road to the DEOS MIRF traverse cleared areas associated with roads, a quarry and an airstrip, while the remainder is uncleared. Mapped remnant vegetation includes:

- RE 12.3.13 - Closed heathland on seasonally waterlogged alluvial plains usually near coast (Least Concern);

- RE 12.5.4 – Eucalyptus spp., Corymbia spp., Melaleuca spp. woodland on complex of remnant Tertiary surface and Tertiary sedimentary rocks (Least Concern);

- RE 12.5.10 – Banksia aemula woodland on complex of remnant Tertiary surface and Tertiary sedimentary rocks (Least Concern); and

- RE 12.5.12 – Eucalyptus racemosa, E. latisinensis +/- Corymbia gummifera, C. intermedia, E. bancroftii woodland with heathy understorey on remnant Tertiary surfaces (Of Concern).

The vegetation at this site is undisturbed and in good condition.

5.2 Translocation SitesSuitable habitats for translocation are likely to be in close proximity to existing populations, or in similar regional ecosystems with appropriate soil and understory elements (Forster and Holland, 2007).

Populations of M. pauli-guilielmi were recorded in flat to gently undulating plains (AECOM, 2011). Soils were pale sands which were damp but not waterlogged at the time of survey.

All populations were recorded in Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus racemosa) open forest with a dense heathy understorey. The mid storey contained small trees and shrubs such as Wallum Banksia (Banksia aemula), Wild May (Leptospermum polygalifolium), L. trinervium and Hakea plurinervia. The ground storey included small shrubs, grasses and sedges such as Dwarf Banksia (Banksia oblongifolia), Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra), Queensland Wax Flower (Philotheca myoporoides), Forest Boronia (Boronia rosmarinifolia), Conesticks (Petrophile shirleyae), Curly Sedge (Caustis recurvata) and Leucopogon sp. Grasstrees (Xanthorrhoea fulva) were a common feature in all surveyed populations.

Recent fire scars were observed on tree trunks at some sites, indicating that populations can tolerate fire.

Previous surveys at WBTA have located numerous populations of pineapple zamia throughout the training area (PB, 2003; AECOM, 2010, 2011). These populations are mapped in Figure F3. It is proposed that a suitable offset site for relocation of existing pineapple zamias within the DEOS MIRF footprint and planting of propagated plants is located adjacent to an existing population within WBTA.

A suitable offset site should include the following characteristics:

- Immediately adjacent to an existing population, to maximise sustainability of the translocated and existing populations;

- Physical and biological habitat features as similar as possible to other known habitat for pineapple zamia;

- An area with no existing or future proposed uses that would impact on the viability of the translocated population;

- Sufficient size to support about 50 relocated individuals from the impact site and 250 propagated individuals (based on Queensland Government Environmental Offsets Policy) – see above; and

- Sufficient access to allow translocation work and site preparation, maintenance and monitoring.

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The location of the offset site will be identified in liaison with relevant Defence personnel and individuals / organisations with expertise in the propagation and translocation of pineapple zamia.

It would be desirable to demark the translocation site with fencing and / or signage to avoid accidental damage by Defence activities. However, this may not be possible due to training requirements.

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6.0 Translocation MethodsTranslocation will be undertaken according to established policies, codes and guidelines, including:

- Consultation Draft: Environmental Offsets Policy (DSEWPC, 2011);

- Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy, version 1 (DERM, 2011);

- Code of practice for the taking and use of protected plants (EPA, 2001);

- National Multi-species Recovery Plan for the cycads, Cycas megacarpa, Cycas ophiolitica, Macrozamia cranei, Macrozamia lomandroides, Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi and Macrozamia platyrhachis (Forster and Holland, 2007); and

- Guidelines for the Translocation of Threatened Plants in Australia (Vallee et al., 2004).

from Australian Natives is a recognised cycad specialist with experience in seed collection, propagation and translocation of native cycads, and has expressed his interest and availability to provide services to undertake the proposed relocation and propagation.Translocation methods will include relocation of existing pineapple zamias within the construction footprint of the DEOS MIRF. The translocation will be supplemented with propagation of pineapple zamias to replace existing plants that are impacted by the development. Five pineapple zamias will be propagated to replace each plant that is moved, as outlined in Section 4.

6.1 RelocationSeedlings and mature plants of most pineapple zamias, including M. pauli-guilielmi, are relatively easy to transplant (Jones, 1993). Special challenges for successful transplanting of M. pauli-guilielmi include:

- The sandy nature of the soil, which can lead to difficulty in retaining soil around the rootball during excavation; and

- The size of the underground stem, which must be carefully assessed before excavation to avoid damage.

The optimal time for translocation is before a new leaf flush, generally in the spring before the onset of the wet season. They are generally tolerant of some root damage, although better results are achieved with the retention of a solid root ball.

If the translocation is based on good landscape horticultural practices, it should have a high rate of success. Any translocation of threatened plants should follow the general guidelines proposed by Vallee et al. (2004). Large adult plants of M. pauli-guilielmi may be successfully transplanted by the following methodology outlined in Forster (2004), and discussed with (pers. comm):

1) Each plant should be marked on one side with marker paint or fluorescent dye. This is to ensure that the plants are replanted with a similar north-south orientation and to discourage poaching from the new locality.

2) The area around individuals should be cleaned by hand or with machinery (e.g. bobcat or front end loader).

3) All fronds should be trimmed back to where the rachis is attached to the stems.

4) An anti-transpirant (e.g., Envy®) should be applied to the foliage of each pineapple zamia.

5) Soil around each individual should be loosened using a trenching pattern (either by hand, or ideally with an excavator or backhoe). Care should be taken as the underground stem can be up to 20 cm in diameter.

6) Each individual should be removed whilst attempting to maintain a rootball of soil. This can either be done by hand (small plants) or with an excavator or backhoe bucket. Care should be taken in retaining as much of the soil around the rootball as possible as the weight of the soil falling off the rootball can damage the roots of the plant. In sandy soils this will be difficult. An assessment should be made for each plant as to whether excavation by hand or machine is appropriate: given the nature of the site, for safety reasons it may be better to use an excavator with added windscreen protection wherever possible ( pers. comm.). Large plants will be loaded onto machinery using a sling that is positioned on a backhoe or excavator bucket and wrapped by rolls of hessian sacking (or similar) to protect the underground stem.

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7) Although not absolutely necessary, the rootball and roots could be wrapped with hessian sacking, and sprayed with water so that the root ball remains moist while the plant is awaiting replanting.

8) Damaged roots should be trimmed with secateurs and a fungicide applied by spraying the roots with Banrot®. Damaged root ends should either be allowed to form a callus (by leaving plants in the shade for two weeks), or be painted with a standard arboricultural stem sealant. Formula20®, Vitamin B or Seaweed may also be applied to promote root growth.

9) Relocation and replanting of individual plants should occur as soon as possible from the time the plant is excavated, that is, the amount of time that the plant is out of the ground must be limited as far as practical.

10) During vehicle transport to translocation sites, care should be taken to minimise bruising of plant stems.

11) Holes at the translocation locality should be dug by hand or with an excavator or backhoe. The soil must be loosened, and the hole not much deeper than the rootball of the plants being transplanted.

12) Plants should be positioned in new holes to ensure that the north-south orientation from the old locality is maintained. Just prior to planting, the hessian will be removed and any further damaged roots will be trimmed.

13) Backfilling should use the original topsoil removed from the hole. Plants will be staked if necessary. Plants will be placed in a vertical alignment where possible.

14) The foliage will be sprayed a second time with an anti-transpirant (e.g., Envy®).

15) The foliage of each pineapple zamia will be sprayed with an insecticide (either Confidor® at a rate of application of 10 mL per 9 litres of water or application of Crown® at a rate of application of 5 mL per 9 litres of water) after transplantation.

16) Each plant will be watered thoroughly.

17) 5-9 litres of a systemic fungicide will be applied around each rootball.

18) Each plant will be watered about once a month (10-20 litres) depending on rainfall for 6 months after replanting or as appropriate and any new expanding leaves will be sprayed with an insecticide (as described in Step 16).

19) Plants will be monitored for new growth, death, insect attack, reproduction, gender, etc. for a period of two years. A report will be submitted to DSEWPC within three months of the completion of monitoring. Defence may contract the monitoring and report preparation to a third party.

6.2 PropagationSeed collection will be undertaken according to the Code of Practice for the Taking and Use of Protected Plants (EPA, 2001):

- Surveys of populations of pineapple zamia will be undertaken to determine likely availability of seeds for propagation (see below).

- Seeds will be harvested with the permission and following any specified conditions of the landholder.

- Strict hygiene protocols will be followed to avoid introducing and spreading weeds and pathogens (e.g. vehicle washdown, cleaning of shoes, clothing and equipment).

- Care will be taken to minimise damage to pineapple zamias and the environment (e.g. by vehicles, trampling).

- Harvesting will not be undertaken during or after heavy rain.

- Seeds will be collected from large populations that are more likely to be genetically diverse. Where possible, seeds will be collected from widely-spaced plants located in separate sub-populations.

- All harvested seed will be ripe and shed from the plant or be on the point of being shed.

- No more than 20 percent of the seeds from any one plant will be collected (unless the plant will be relocated in the translocation program).

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- All seed collections will be labelled with the species, date and place of collection, harvester’s name and address and permit number.

- Seed will be transported and stored in conditions that maximise its viability.

Seed propagation will be undertaken by a horticulturalist with experience in the cultivation of native cycads. Seedlings will be raised in a suitable nursery until large enough for planting at the translocation site. has advised the optimum time for seed collection is when the seed has naturally dropped from the fruit. This normally occurs 6 to 12 months after the fruiting season. Pineapple zamias are believed to fruit sporadically (every 4-6 years; probably in response to a combination of cues, including climate and fire). All mapped populations of pineapple zamia at WBTA should be monitored for fruiting as individual populations may respond independently to environmental cues. Populations in areas which have been burnt in the last 2 years should be targeted first.

The expected time for germination is approximately 12 months, and the propagated pineapple zamias would be ready to be planted at the relocation site after two years growing in a nursery.

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7.0 Maintenance7.1 Site PreparationA site assessment will be undertaken to determine the existing vegetation and landscape conditions within the translocation site. This assessment will include:

- Classification of vegetation communities;

- Identification of dominant flora species;

- Assessment of landscape features, such as slope, aspect and general soil characteristics;

- Assessment of disturbance, such as weeds, erosion, feral animals, fire scars and evidence of recent fire; and

- Targeted search for threatened species, especially existing pineapple zamia individuals.

The preparation for the translocated site would be dependent on the findings of the assessment. Based on the results of previous surveys at WBTA, preparation within the site may include:

- Control of existing weeds;

- Promotion of natural regeneration;

- Establishment of temporary fire management measures (e.g. firebreaks, fuel reduction zones) during pineapple zamia establishment; and

- Establishment of erosion control measures if required.

7.2 Maintenance of Translocated PlantsDuring and after the translocation of pineapple zamias to the nominated site, maintenance of the plants will be carried out to increase likelihood of survival. Maintenance measures may include:

- Weed management – Weeds within the translocated site will be monitored and controlled by following a weed management program (refer to Section 7.3).

- Watering – Each plant will be watered about once a month (10-20 litres) for 6 months after replanting or as appropriate depending on rainfall.

- Pathogens - During monthly watering, any plant with new expanding leaves or suffering from herbivory attack will be sprayed with insecticide (as described in Step 16 of the relocation procedure).

- Fire – Measures to reduce fire hazard risk will be developed and implemented if identified as necessary during the translocation site assessment (refer to Section 7.5).

- Grazing, trampling and digging up pineapple zamias – If monitoring detects damage from feral or native animals, appropriate control measures will be developed and implemented.

7.3 Weed ManagementDefence has an ongoing program for management of weeds within WBTA, including monitoring and control programs. The following section provides weed management recommendations specific to the proposed development.

Based on previous surveys, known weeds from the area are unlikely to pose a threat to the survival of pineapple zamia populations in the translocation site or in areas adjacent to impact sites.

However, introduction of new weed species (e.g. giant rat’s tail grass, lantana) could impact significantly on pineapple zamia populations and military activities.

Weed species that are considered to be of concern in this environment include:

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- Lantana (Lantana species);

- Giant rat’s tail grass (Sporobolus pyramidalis);

- Prickly pear (Opuntia species); and

- Mother of millions (Bryophyllum species).

Defence will implement weed hygiene measures and a weed monitoring and control program to manage the potential introduction and spread of weeds within the impacted sites and the translocation site.

7.3.1 Weed Hygiene

It is vital that existing weeds are not introduced and spread into new areas, especially the transfer of weeds from the impact site to the translocation site (and vice versa). Strict weed hygiene strategies to avoid the spread of seeds from infested areas will include:

- All vehicles and machinery are to be certified weed free before commencing work on site.

- All vehicles and machinery are to be washed down at an appropriate washdown facility regularly during works, especially when transferring between sites and when working in areas where weed infestations are known.

- All clothing, shoes and other equipment are to be cleaned regularly between activities, especially when leaving an area and starting work in a new area and before leaving known weed infested areas.

- Soil, gravel or fill from infected areas should not be moved to uncontaminated areas, unless absolutely necessary (e.g. root ball of relocated plants).

- Weed Hygiene Declarations should be requested when buying sand, gravel or fill for use in the translocation site or impact areas.

- Training and inductions are to be provided for contractors and workers about the importance of weed control, including a briefing on appropriate hygiene measures.

When relocating pineapple zamia individuals, it is important to transport the root ball and associated soil mass with the plant, so soil will be transported from the impact site to the translocation site. Therefore, it is not possible to completely avoid the risk of transporting weed seeds stored within the soil. Regular monitoring and control of weeds within the transplanted root ball will be undertaken to mitigate this risk.

7.3.2 Weed Monitoring

Monitoring is essential to monitor existing weed species and infestations and identify any new weed species and infestations. It is recommended that the presence and abundance of declared and environmental weeds is monitored during:

- Inspection of the impact sites before existing pineapple zamias are removed;

- Initial inspection of the translocation site;

- Site inspections scheduled during preparation and maintenance of the translocation site (one to two times during the wet season and once during the dry season per year, depending on results of the initial site investigation);

- Biannual weed inspections within impact areas during construction and for a period of two years following construction; and

- A minimum of annual weed inspections within impact areas during the operational phase.

Monitoring will be used to determine any required weed control works, assess the effectiveness of the current control program, and provide recommendations to improve the program.

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7.3.3 Weed Control

Depending on the weed species and extent of infestation recorded during monitoring, specific control measures would be developed and implemented to reduce the impacts of weeds within the translocated and impact sites. Some control measures that could be utilised include:

- Physical removal – manual removal by hand and slashing with a brush cutter (especially adjacent to translocated plants).

- Chemical control - application of approved herbicide by spraying, basal bark or cut stump.

- Fire - planned burns to control weeds, destroy and / or promote germination of weed seeds and reduce weed fuel loads.

- Integrated approach (two or more of the above controls).

7.4 Animal ManagementThroughout the project, animal activity will be monitored and managed to reduce the impacts on the translocated pineapple zamias. Animal management measures include:

- Insect defoliators – Insect herbivory has been observed in existing pineapple zamia populations within the area and could pose a significant threat to the translocated population. The extent of insect herbivory of leaves will be recorded during monthly watering and subsequent monitoring of translocated plants. If new leaf growth or leaves with greater than 25% insect damage are observed, foliage will be sprayed with a suitable insecticide (either Confidor® at a rate of application of 10 mL per 9 litres of water or application of Crown® at a rate of application of 5 mL per 9 litres of water).

- Feral vertebrate animals – Feral animals are unlikely to pose a significant threat to pineapple zamias, except for potential trampling or digging up of seedlings / young plants and knocking over adult plants. However, the presence of feral animals will be monitored during site inspections. Control measures will be developed and implemented if needed.

- Grazing by native vertebrates – Native vertebrates are unlikely to graze on pineapple zamias, but will be monitored during site inspections. Control measures will be developed and implemented if needed.

- Damage by native vertebrates – Native vertebrates could potentially trample or dig up pineapple zamia seedlings / young plants and larger animals could push over adult plants, but this is considered a low risk. If available, rocks will be placed around the base of the plant to provide protection against native vertebrates digging and uprooting pineapple zamia seedlings and young plants. Damage will be monitored during site inspections, and additional control measures will be developed and implemented if needed.

Ongoing monitoring will be conducted to determine if any animal management measures are required, assess the effectiveness of current control measures and provide recommendations to improve the program.

7.5 Fire ManagementAdult pineapple zamias can tolerate natural fire regimes, so relocated adult plants are unlikely to be threatened by fire. However, although low intensity fires may not kill pineapple zamia seedlings, fire may pose a risk to seedlings and young plants. Dependent on the site inspection, fire management measures may be required to reduce the severity of fire hazard, and may include:

- Choosing a recently burned site in which fuel loads are reduced;

- Establishment and maintenance of fire breaks;

- Fuel load reduction (e.g. brush cutting / slashing / herbicide application around cycad individuals); and

- Rocks placed around the base of the plants to provide protection from fires.

If fire breaks and / or fuel load reductions are needed to protect the planted pineapple zamias from potential fire hazard, they will need to be maintained annually, at the beginning of the dry season.

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Ongoing monitoring of the fire breaks and fuel loads would also be undertaken to identify maintenance requirements, assess the effectiveness of the current control program and provide recommendations to improve the program.

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8.0 Monitoring and EvaluationMonitoring will be undertaken from the commencement of the translocation until at least two years after final plantings are completed. Monitoring will assess conditions at the translocation site and the success of translocation works. This will include both existing pineapple zamias that are relocated and propagated seedlings that are planted. Monitoring will also include a reference site located adjacent to the translocation site. This will allow comparison of undisturbed plants with translocated plants to determine the success of translocation in relation to underlying population trends.

8.1 Translocation Site MonitoringSite monitoring will determine requirements for the development and implementation of vegetation management (e.g. erosion control, weed control, fire management, etc). Table 1 describes general parameters that may be monitored during translocation site inspections, and identifies frequency and responsibility of monitoring parameters.

Table 1: Parameters for Monitoring of Translocation Site

Monitoring Parameter Details Frequency Responsibilit

ySite Enclosure Examine the established fence and / or signage to

ensure the translocation site is adequately demarked (unless training requirements preclude site demarcation).

1 / yr Defence / contractor

Pest species Monitor the presence of domestic grazing animals 1 / yr Defence / contractor

Monitor the presence of feral animals 1 / yr Defence / contractor

Weeds Monitor the presence of declared and environmental weeds

2 / yr Defence / contractor

Fire Examine the established fire breaks (if required) to ensure the translocated plants are protected

1 / yr (start of dry season)

Defence / contractor

Monitor fuel loads around translocated pineapple zamias

1 / yr (start of dry season)

Defence / contractor

Erosion Monitor the condition of any established erosion and sediment control measures (if required)

1 / yr Defence / contractor

Monitor the presence and extent of erosion within the site

1 / yr Defence / contractor

8.2 Post-translocation MonitoringMonitoring will be undertaken to assess the success of translocation works, including the relocation of pineapple zamia individuals from the impact site and propagation and planting of seedlings. Table 2 identifies parameters to be monitored for translocated plants and a reference site containing undisturbed plants, including frequency and responsibility of monitoring parameters.

Table 2: Parameters for Monitoring of Translocated Plants and Reference Site Plants

Monitoring Parameter Details Frequency Responsibility

Survival / mortality Number of live and dead translocated cycads

2 / yr Defence / contractor

Reproduction and Gender

Presence of cycad reproductive structures ( male and female cones) and seeds

2 / yr Defence / contractor

New growth Presence of new leaf growth 2 / yr Defence / contractor

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Monitoring Parameter Details Frequency Responsibility

Predation Presence and extent of vertebrate damage and / or insect herbivory

2 / yr Defence / contractor

Monitoring of translocated pineapple zamias and reference plants will be conducted every six months for a period of two years following translocation (including planting of propagated seedlings).

8.3 Performance and Completion CriteriaTable 3 identifies auditable performance and completion criteria to manage and regulate the offset project. Each criterion stipulates the frequency of review as well as actions required if the criterion is not achieved.

Table 3: Performance Criteria

Criteria Frequency Action if non-compliant

Site Maintenance and Condition CriteriaFence established Start of project Establish fence around protected

translocation site (if feasible within constraints of training activities)

Fence intact 1 / yr Repair and maintain fence integrity

Presence of damage from feral animals 1 / yr Develop and implement control measures if required

Presence of declared and environmental weeds 2 / yr Conduct weed removal and control

Fire breaks established Start of project Establish fire breaks if required

Fire breaks intact 1 / yr (start of dry season)

Maintain fire breaks

Fuel load around plants (grass < 0.5 m high; cover < 50% extending at least 0.5 m from plants)

1 / yr (start of dry season)

Consider fuel reduction (e.g. hand removal, brush cutting, herbicide)

Erosion and sediment control measures established Start of project Establish erosion and sediment control measures (if required)

Erosion and sediment control measures intact (if required)

1 / yr Repair and maintain erosion and sediment control measures (if required)

Presence of erosion 1 / yr Develop and implement appropriate control measures if required

Translocation Population CriteriaSurvival / mortality 2 / yr Propagate and plant 5 seedlings

for each pineapple zamia killed by development

Reproduction (male and female cones and seeds present)

2 / yr None

Predation (vertebrate damage and insect herbivory – < 25%, 25 – 75 %, > 75% of leaf removed)

2 / yr Spray with insecticide if > 25% of leaf removed

Damage from domestic, feral or native vertebrates (plants dug up or pushed over)

1 / yr Develop and implement control measures if required

Presence of new growth 2 / yr Spray with insecticide to reduce potential insect damage to new leaves

Translocation Success CriteriaNumber of plants established > number expired post-translocation

2 / yr Additional propagation and planting of cycads

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Criteria Frequency Action if non-compliant

Protected translocation area greater than or equal to 5 x area impacted by the project

Start of project Extend the offset area

Maintenance criteriaRecords of watering, weed and insect control, fire management, fence maintenance, erosion control measures, etc.

As conducted Ensure reporting procedures established and followed

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9.0 Plan Implementation, Reporting and Review 9.1 ImplementationThe Defence Regional Environmental Officer or their nominated representative will be responsible for the implementation of this plan.

9.2 ScheduleIndicative schedules are given for site preparation / maintenance activities in Table 4, translocation activities in Table 5 and monitoring activities in Table 6.

Table 4: Timing of Site Preparation / Maintenance Activities

Activity Scheduled Date

Offset site identification January 2012

Site preparation for offset site February 2012

Weed control Once during the wet season and once during the dry season per year (February 2012 to February 2015)

Establishment of appropriate erosion and sediment control measures if required (e.g. sediment fences, berms, stormwater diversion drains)

February 2012 to August 2012

Maintenance and repair of erosion and sediment control measures

Maintenance in June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015; repair whenever requirement identified during site monitoring

Establishment of fire management measures February 2012 to August 2012

Maintenance of fire management measures June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015 (if required)

Fuel load reduction around cycads June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015 (if required)

Establishment of fencing February 2012 (if required)

Maintenance of fencing June 2012, June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015 (if required)

Table 5: Timing of Translocation Activities

Activity Scheduled Date

Collection of seeds for propagation January to August 2012

Propagation of seeds and raising in nursery August 2012 to August 2013

Relocation of existing pineapple zamias to offset site February 2012 (approximately)

Planting of propagated seedlings August 2013

Watering of relocated pineapple zamias Once a month from February 2012 to July 2012 (depending on rainfall)

Watering of propagated seedlings Once a month from August 2013 to January 2014 (depending on rainfall)

Insect herbivore control If new leaf growth or leaves with greater than 25% insect damage are recorded during monitoring (February 2012 to July 2015)

Feral vertebrate animal control If vertebrate damage is recorded during monitoring (February 2012 to July 2015)

Table 6: Timing of Monitoring Activities

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Activity Scheduled Date

Initial offset site investigation January 2012

Fire management June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Fuel load around translocated pineapple zamias June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Fence condition June 2012, June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Condition of erosion measures (if required) June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Presence of erosion June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Weeds Once during the wet season and once during the dry season per year (February 2012 to February 2015)

Feral animals June 2012, June 2013, June 2014 and June 2015

Number of live and dead pineapple zamias February and August 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015

Presence of reproductive structures February and August 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015

Presence of new leaf growth Concurrently with watering schedule, then twice yearly until July 2015

Predation (vertebrate damage and insect herbivory) Concurrently with watering schedule, then twice yearly until July 2015

9.3 ReportingAnnual reports on the progress of the translocation program will be prepared, documenting:

- Summary of maintenance and translocation activities;

- Results of monitoring;

- Progress towards achieving performance and success criteria; and

- Recommendations for actions to remedy any non-compliance with performance and success criteria.

Copies of the report will be prepared in October 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 and will be provided to regulatory agencies, including DSEWPC.

9.4 Review The plan will be reviewed annually or when monitoring and auditing identifies non-compliance with performance and completion criteria. Any alterations to the plan will be reported to DSEWPC.

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10.0 Securing of Translocation SiteWBTA is Commonwealth land, which supports one of the largest remaining areas of coastal heathlands in the Southeast Queensland region. Although subject to some disturbance from military activities, the majority of the property contains native vegetation in good condition, including numerous populations of pineapple zamia (Figure F3). Nevertheless, it is recommended that Defence investigates options with DSEWPC to provide long-term protection of the offset site.

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11.0 Mitigation Measures for Adjacent PopulationsThe revised footprint will directly impact on 50 pineapple zamias, but will be adjacent to approximately 200 other individuals. Measures to mitigate indirect impacts to these plants will be detailed in a Construction Environmental Management Plan for the development. These measures will include:

- Conduct pre-construction surveys to identify and tag all pineapple zamias adjacent to the development footprint.

- Clearly demark the boundary of the development footprint, access tracks and the no-go area containing pineapple zamias with appropriate fencing and signage.

- Install sediment and erosion control systems to ensure there is no increase in erosion or movement of runoff and sediments into the areas in which pineapple zamia occurs adjacent to the development. Design temporary and final drainage systems to minimise changes in local hydrology.

- Develop strategies and facilities to contain contaminants such as gross pollutants, weed seeds, fuels and oils, chemicals, etc. Dispose of waste materials and / or contaminants appropriately and away from adjacent native vegetation and waterways.

- Stabilise exposed soil surfaces (e.g. through sterile grass seeding, erosion control meshing, progressive stabilisation and revegetation of finished soil surfaces and / or mulching using vegetative material removed from the project area.

- Revegetate disturbed areas that are not required for operation with native species as soon as possible following construction.

- Fit spark-arrestors to all machinery and equipment operating in the site.

- Ensure fire fighting equipment is available when works are being undertaken (especially hot works).

- Implement a washdown and certification process to ensure that all vehicles and plant are weed-free before entering the site.

- Conduct weed management works and monitor for at least two years following construction.

- Ensure construction staff are aware of the pineapple zamia, particularly its appearance and location of the known populations.

- Ensure construction staff are aware of their responsibilities with regard to protection of the species.

- Monitor the pineapple zamia population adjacent to the development to detect any impacts and allow prompt corrective action if required.

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12.0 ReferencesAECOM (2010). Environmental Impact Assessment: Wide Bay Training Area. AECOM Australia Pty Ltd, Brisbane.

AECOM (2011). Threatened Species Surveys at Wide Bay Training Area for ELF 2C. AECOM Australia Pty Ltd, Brisbane.

DEWR (2007). Draft Policy Statement: Use of environmental offsets under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999. Commonwealth of Australia.

DSEWPC (2011). Consultation Draft: Environmental Offsets Policy. Commonwealth of Australia.

EPA (2001). Code of Practice for the Taking and Use of Protected Plants. Ecoaccess Environmental Licenses and Permits, Queensland Government.

DERM (2011). Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy (version 1). Queensland Government.

Forster, P.I. 2004. Recovery plan for the endangered cycad Cycas megacarpa (Cycadaceae). Report to Environment Australia, Canberra. Environmental Protection Agency, Brisbane.

Forster, P. and Holland, A. (2007). National Multi-species Recovery Plan for the cycads, Cycas megacarpa, Cycas ophiolitica, Macrozamia cranei, Macrozamia lomandroides, Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi and Macrozamia platyrhachis. Queensland Herbarium, Environmental Protection Agency.

Halford, D. (2001) Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi. Brisbane: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services, Forest Management.

Jones, D.L. 1993. Cycads of the World. Reed, Chatswood.

PB (2003). Wide Bay Training Area: Threatened Plant Survey. Parsons Brinckerhoff Pty Ltd, Brisbane. Unpublished report for Department of Defence.

Vallee, L., Hogbin, T., Monks, L., Makinson, B., Matthes, M. and Rossetto, M. (2004). Guidelines for the Translocation of Threatened Plants in Australia. 2nd edition. Australian Network for Plant Conservation, Canberra.

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AAppendix A

Figures

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