Schofields DHA site

Schofields DHA site

Vegetation Management Plan

Prepared for

Defence Housing Australia

February 2016

S c h o f i e l ds S i t e – V e g e ta t i o n M a n a g em e nt P l a n

© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D i

DOCUMENT TRACKING

Item Detail

Project Name Schofields Site – Vegetation Management Plan

Project Number 13SYDECO-0052

Project Manager

David Bonjer

8536 8668

PO Box 20529

World Square, NSW 2002

Prepared by Belinda Failes

Reviewed by Andrew Whitford

Approved by David Bonjer

Status Final

Version Number 7

Last saved on 9 February 2016

Cover photo

Top Left: Infestation of Balloon Vine. Top Right: Threatened flora Grevillea juniperina subsp.

juniperina. Bottom Left: Rusa Deer in VMP areas. Bottom Right: Riparian corridor along

Eastern Creek

This report should be cited as ‘Eco Logical Australia 2015. Schofields site – Vegetation Management

Plan. Prepared for Defence Housing Australia.’

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This document has been prepared by Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd with support from Defence Housing

Australia.

Disclaimer

This document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the contract between Eco

Logical Australia Pty Ltd and Defence Housing Australia. The scope of services was defined in consultation with Defence Housing

Australia, by time and budgetary constraints imposed by the client, and the availability of reports and other data on the subject

area. Changes to available information, legislation and schedules are made on an ongoing basis and readers should obtain up to

date information.

Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this

report and its supporting material by any third party. Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for site specific

assessment or legal advice in relation to any matter. Unauthorised use of this report in any form is prohibited.


© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D ii

Contents

1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Background................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Objectives of the vegetation management plan ........................................................................... 1

1.3 Key terms ...................................................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Timeframe for management ......................................................................................................... 2

2 Existing Environment ................................................................................................................. 4

2.1 Location ........................................................................................................................................ 4

2.2 Land use ....................................................................................................................................... 4

2.3 Hydrology ...................................................................................................................................... 4

2.4 Soils and geology ......................................................................................................................... 4

2.5 Vegetation Communities .............................................................................................................. 4

2.6 Alluvial Woodland ......................................................................................................................... 5

2.7 Riparian Woodland ....................................................................................................................... 5

2.8 Disturbed Grassland ..................................................................................................................... 5

2.9 Exotic Weeds ................................................................................................................................ 5

2.10 Flora species ................................................................................................................................ 5

2.11 Fauna species and habitat ........................................................................................................... 6

3 Management Zones .................................................................................................................. 10

3.1 Management overview ............................................................................................................... 10

3.2 Preliminary works ....................................................................................................................... 10

3.2.1 Fencing ....................................................................................................................................... 10

3.2.2 Seed collection ........................................................................................................................... 11

3.2.3 Fauna habitat enhancement ....................................................................................................... 11

3.2.4 Management of Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina .............................................................. 11

3.2.5 Erosion Control ........................................................................................................................... 12

3.2.6 Soil translocation ........................................................................................................................ 12

3.3 Contractor qualifications and NPWS licence requirements ........................................................ 12

3.4 Treatment zones ......................................................................................................................... 13

3.4.1 Management zone 1 – High native resilience ............................................................................ 13

3.4.2 Management zone 2 – Threatened flora and edge effects ........................................................ 13

3.4.3 Management zone 3 – Riparian corridor .................................................................................... 14

3.4.4 Management zone 4 – Revegetate native grassland ................................................................. 16

4 Planting ...................................................................................................................................... 19


© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D iii

5 Implementation ......................................................................................................................... 21

5.1 Proposed timeline ....................................................................................................................... 21

5.2 Management beyond life of VMP ............................................................................................... 21

6 Estimated cost .......................................................................................................................... 24

7 Monitoring and Reporting ........................................................................................................ 26

7.1 Photo monitoring points .............................................................................................................. 26

7.2 Plot- based Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 26

7.3 Quarterly reports ......................................................................................................................... 27

7.4 Annual reports and performance criteria .................................................................................... 27

7.5 Review of the Vegetation Management Plan ............................................................................. 29

7.6 On-going VMP management ...................................................................................................... 29

References ............................................................................................................................................. 30

Appendix A – Flora species list ........................................................................................................... 31

Appendix B – Fauna species list ......................................................................................................... 35

Appendix C - Recommended planting list .......................................................................................... 37

Appendix D - Management Zone photos ............................................................................................ 40

Appendix E - Weed Management Techniques .................................................................................... 44

Appendix F - Weed Control Techniques ............................................................................................. 54


© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D iv

List of figures Figure 1: VMP area and Extent of Works associated with Development Application ................................ 3

Figure 2: Top of Bank mapping and tributaries within the VMP area ......................................................... 8

Figure 3: Vegetation communities, threatened flora and fauna ................................................................. 9

Figure 4: Management zones ................................................................................................................... 18

Figure 5: Plot layout for BioMetric assessment (DECCW 2011) .............................................................. 27

List of tables

Table 1: Summary of the VMP objectives .................................................................................................. 2

Table 2: Noxious and WoNS recorded in the VMP area ............................................................................ 6

Table 3: Threatened fauna likely to occur within the VMP area ................................................................. 7

Table 4: Management zones and the condition mapped within the VMP area. ....................................... 10

Table 5: Example of mosaic weed removal pattern as adopted from Recovering Bushland on the

Cumberland Plain (DEC 2005) ................................................................................................................. 16

Table 6: Recommended densities per management zone according to vegetation community ............. 19

Table 7: Proposed timeline for management zones................................................................................. 22

Table 8: Indicative costs per tasks for each management zone. ............................................................. 24

Table 9: indicative costs for management zones over five years ............................................................ 25

Table 10: Weed vectors ........................................................................................................................... 54


© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D v

Abbreviations

Abbreviation Description

AW Alluvial Woodland

BCC Blacktown City Council

CEEC Critically endangered ecological community

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

CPW Cumberland Plain Woodland

DHA Defence Housing Australia

DNG Derived Native Grassland

EEC Endangered Ecological Community

ELA Eco Logical Australia

ESCP Erosion and Sediment Control Plan

LGA Local Government Area

MZ Management zone

NW Act Noxious Weeds Act 1993

RFS NSW Rural Fire Service

RW Riparian Woodland

TEC Threatened Ecological Community

TOB Top of Bank

TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

VMP Vegetation Management Plan

WM Act Water Management Act 2000


© E CO LO G ICA L A U S T RA L IA P T Y LT D 1

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

The Defence Housing Australia (DHA) intends to lodge a Development Application (DA) to Blacktown

City Council (BCC) for earthworks associated with a haul road, drainage and stormwater basins on the

Department of Defence landholding at Schofields. The site is located within the Sydney Growth

Centres and therefore impacts to certified lands have been accounted for. The proposed works involve

disturbance to waterfront land and removal of existing native vegetation within non-certified lands.

Therefore, a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) is required for works within the E2 lands as specified

in the State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Region Growth Centres) 2006 Appendix 7

Schofields Precinct Plan Clause 6.6 (2).

This VMP has been prepared for two purposes:

1. To ensure stabilisation of watercourses where earthworks are undertaken on waterfront

land; and

2. To achieve the objectives of the Schofields Precinct Plan which include the need to protect

and rehabilitate the riparian zone of Eastern Creek in accordance with the Growth Centres

Development Control Plan 2010.

Eco Logical Australia (ELA) has prepared a Flora and Fauna Assessment for non-certified lands (2015).

A small parcel of Nirimba Education Precinct will be impacted as part of the proposed haul road;

however, this area will not be included in this VMP. This VMP covers the vegetation to be retained

along Eastern Creek in the E2 zone (Figure 1).

Additionally, ELA completed the Schofields Precinct Biodiversity Assessment (2011) including mapping

of Top of Bank (TOB) and riparian category based on the Riparian Corridor Management Study (DIPNR

2004) (Figure 2). The stream category and the required riparian buffer identified in the report have

been used as a guide for revegetation along watercourse located in this VMP area.

1.2 Object ives of the vegetation management plan

The DHA Schofields site contains significant biodiversity, including threatened ecological communities

(TEC) and threatened flora and fauna species. The vegetation in the riparian zone of Eastern Creek

provides an essential corridor for biodiversity with adjacent conservation areas. The following

objectives for the VMP are consistent with the Objectives of the E2 Environmental Conservation Zone in

the State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Region Growth Centres) 2006:

To protect, manage and restore areas of high ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic

values.

To prevent development that could destroy, damage or otherwise have an adverse effect

on those values

The plan addresses the following matters in clause 6.6(2) of the Growth Centres SEPP:

The environmental values of the land

Methods to revegetate ad rehabilitate

Weed control



Monitoring and ongoing management

Other measures to control threats, increase species diversity and improve the lands resistance

to future weed colonisation

The objectives for this VMP can be summarised as the following:

Table 1: Summary of the VMP objectives

Objectives Approach

Increase the quality and

extent of TEC

control woody weeds, vines and exotic ground cover

revegetation of low resilience areas

reduce grazing/ trampling by control of introduced fauna

increase connectivity through assisted and natural regeneration

Protect and maintain

threatened flora

reduce grazing/ trampling by control of introduced fauna

control weed infestations (Blackberry and African Lovegrass)

Stabilise active erosion

areas of Eastern Creek

revegetate creek bank to 40 m width

stabilise slope

control woody weeds, vines and exotic ground cover

improve aquatic fauna habitat through revegetation, stabilisation works and

water quality

Enhance native fauna

habitat and connectivity

reduce competition from introduced fauna

improve water quality through revegetation

increase connectivity with patchy vegetation through revegetation

increase fauna habitat features through

1.3 Key terms

For the purpose of this VMP the following terminology has been adopted:

VMP area: the area included for management under this VMP, including where bush regeneration and

revegetation works will be undertaken (Figure 1).

1.4 Timeframe for management

The VMP has an implementation period of 5 years as described in Section 5. This includes a works

period of two years and a maintenance period of three years, which is consistent with the Office of

Water Guidelines for Vegetation Management Plans on Waterfront Land. The implementation of the

VMP and its first management actions (i.e. seed collection and log relocation) should coincide with the

vegetation clearance within the development area.

At the end of the 5 year period, the landholder may choose to update the VMP for another period.

Regardless of whether the VMP is updated, the landholder will have the legal obligations for

management of noxious weeds under the Noxious Weed Act 1993 (NW Act). More information on the

on-going management of the VMP after the 5 years is provided in Section 7.6.



Figure 1: VMP area and Extent of Works associated with Development Application



2 Existing Environment

2.1 Location

The VMP area is located within Schofield Precinct, in the Blacktown Local Government Area (LGA)

approximately 45 km north-west of the Sydney Central Business District. The VMP area is bounded by

Eastern Creek to the west, Nirimba Education Precinct and Quakers Rd to the south-east and certified

lands for the remaining boundaries.

2.2 Land use

Schofields is located on the Cumberland Plain of western Sydney. The flat topography and fertile soils

have resulted in extensive clearing of native vegetation for grazing and horticultural practices for

generation. In recent years an explosion of urban development has led to intense pressure on the

remaining vegetation of the Cumberland Plain. The DHA site has been used as part of the Defence

aerodrome during World War II and other defence uses. This area is listed under the Registered of the

National Estate as an Indicative Place (Godden Mackay Logan Pty Ltd 2011).

2.3 Hydrology

Eastern Creek flows along the western boundary of the VMP area (Figure 2). Eastern Creek is located

within the South Creek catchment area which includes most of the Cumberland Plain region (620 km2).

The creek meanders along the western border of the VMP area from south to north. In the north the

creek splits to form vegetative islands. Here the bank is steep and slumping has occurred due to

erosion. Several disconnected pools lie adjacent to the creek indicating the extent of the water flow

following high rainfall events.

Eastern Creek is mapped as a category 1 stream (ELA 2011) according to the Strahler & Horton stream

morphology system. Two minor category 2 drainage lines converge from the east to join Eastern Creek

within the VMP area (Figure 2). Both drainage lines are highly disturbed but may provide habitat for

riparian and terrestrial fauna species.

2.4 Soils and geology

Eastern Creek, along the western boundary of the VMP area, occurs within South Creek (sc) soil

landscape (Bannerman and Hazelton 1990). The soils are typically alluvial deposits derived from

Wianamatta Group shales and Hawkesbury Sandstone (Bannerman and Hazelton 1990). The

topography is generally gentle rolling hills with meandering creek lines along floodplains and drainage

lines of the Cumberland Plain (Bannerman and Hazelton 1990). At higher elevations, outside the VMP

area, are found the Blacktown (bt) soil landscape. This soil landscape is associated with the vegetation

community Cumberland Plain Woodland.

2.5 Vegetat ion Communit ies

The vegetation along the banks of Eastern Creek consists of small pockets of native vegetation of

moderate to high resilience and large tracts of mixed native and exotic vegetation with low resilience

due to past land use (Figure 3).

Two native vegetation communities have been mapped within the VMP area. The vegetation

communities include:



Alluvial Woodland (listed as River-flat Eucalypt Forest under the TSC Act)

Riparian Woodland (listed as Swamp Oak Forest under the TSC Act)

Cleared areas which now contain exotic grasslands are also present within the VMP area; however,

these communities do not contribute towards a native vegetation community.

2.6 Alluvial Woodland

Alluvial Woodland (AW) is widely dispersed along Eastern Creek and condition varies. The community

is characterised by Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak), Angophora floribunda (Rough-barked Apple),

Eucalyptus moluccana (Grey Box) and Melaleuca styphelioides (Prickly-leaved Tea Tree) at lower

densities. The ground cover and midstorey varies according to the disturbance level. Erosion, soil

compaction and weed infestation are key issues within this vegetation community. In the north, high

densities of woody weeds occur in AW, namely Ligustrum sinense (Small-leaved Privet) and Lycium

ferocissimum (African Boxthorn). Both species are declared as noxious in Blacktown LGA under the

Noxious Weeds Act 1993, while African Boxthorn is also listed as a Weed of National Significance

(WoNS). Exotic ground cover species also occur in abundance throughout the AW, species include

Tradescantia fluminensis (Trad) and Ehrharta erecta (Panic Veldtgrass).

2.7 Riparian Woodland

Riparian Woodland (RW) vegetation has been mapped as two patches in the north and one patch in the

south. The two patches in the north are separated by a narrow band of exotic pastoral grasses. This

community predominately occurs adjacent to AW in lower elevations and permanently waterlogged

soils. This vegetation was represented by a single canopy species, Casuarina glauca, and mixed

ground layer of native and exotic species. In the north RW is in good condition with a dense carpet of

Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides in the south patches are small and impacted by exotic species

including Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Balloon Vine) which has spread into the canopy and

suppressed native species regeneration.

2.8 Disturbed Grassland

There are areas of mixed exotic / native open grassland which contain a high percentage of pastoral

exotic grasses and herbs; Axonopus fissifolius (Narrow-leafed Carpet Grass), Cynodon dactylon

(Couch), Eragrostis curvula (African Lovegrass) and occasional herbs Senecio madagascariensis

(Fireweed) and Hypochaeris radicata (Catsear). In lesser extent native herbs and grasses are also

present such as Bothriochloa macra (Red Grass) and Imperata cylindrica (Blady Grass).

2.9 Exotic Weeds

Some areas, previously identified as native vegetation communities, are actually dominated by exotic

vegetation while the native vegetation has been highly modified and the soil seedbank has been

disturbed. The canopy is absent and high weed densities occur within the midstorey and groundcover

layers. Exotic species present include Small-leaved Privet, Rubus fruticosus agg. spp. (Blackberry) and

perennial grass Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu). This area also contains concrete roads and

pavement.

2.10 Flora species

A total of 97 flora species were recorded within the VMP area, of which a high proportion were exotic

species. 38 native species were recorded, including Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina which is



listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act. This species had been recorded in other locations within the

DHA site but a new population was identified during the recent survey (Figure 3).

A total of 59 exotic species have been identified in the VMP area including nine species declared as

noxious under the Noxious Weeds Act (NW Act) 1993 in Blacktown LGA. Six exotic species were also

listed under the Weeds of National Significance (WoNS). These species are detailed in Table 2 and a

full weed list is available in Appendix A.

Table 2: Noxious and WoNS recorded in the VMP area

Common Name Scientific Name Noxious Class WoNS

Alligator Weed Alternanthera philoxeroides 3 Yes

Bridal Creeper Asparagus asparagoides 4 Yes

Green Cestrum Cestrum parqui 3

Large-leaved Privet Ligustrum lucidum 4

Small-leaved Privet Ligustrum sinense 4

African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum 4 Yes

African Olive Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata 4 Yes

Castor Oil Plant Ricinus communis 4

Blackberry Rubus fruticosus agg.spp. 4 Yes

Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis 4 Yes

Class 3: The plant must be fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed

Class 4: The growth of the plant must be managed in a manner that reduces its numbers spread and incidence and continuously inhibits its reproduction

2.11 Fauna species and habitat

A significant number of small birds including transient or partial migratory species were observed

foraging within the vegetation along Eastern Creek. The high percentage of noxious woody weeds,

namely Small-leaved Privet and Blackberry, provide protection for small birds from predators and a

reliable food source.

Amphibians were actively calling from fringing vegetation and in moist depressions across the exotic

grassland and in the AW and RW. There is an abundance of suitable habitat for common urban

amphibians within the non-certified lands.

Microchiropterans (microbats) have been identified from previous surveys conducted along Eastern

Creek north of the VMP area. Species include a number of cave-roosting species which are known to

roost in man-made structures such as culverts which are present in and adjacent to the VMP area. It is

likely that these species would forage within the vegetation and watercourses.

Domestic or escapee fauna species are widely distributed throughout the VMP area. Large herbivores

Dama dama (Fallow Deer) and Bos taurus (Domestic Cattle) were observed grazing in exotic grassland

and moving through native vegetation and Canis lupus familiaris (Domestic Dog) was also sighted.

Indirect evidence such as scats and diggings of Vulpes vulpes (European Red Fox) and Oryctolagus



cuniculus (European Rabbit) and potentially a second deer species Cervus timorensis (Rusa Deer) was

also noted.

Vegetation along Eastern Creek facilitates movement of fauna species across the urbanised landscape.

It has the potential to link conservation areas such as Colebee Nature Reserve located west of Eastern

Creek with Nurragingy Reserve to the south and scattered smaller reserves in the north. Species with

large home range such as Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) may utilise the vegetation

for foraging, roosting or dispersal. The movement of fauna species and flora propagules is important for

the long-term protection of native species and healthy TEC’s.

A list of threatened fauna species likely to occur within the VMP area is available in Table 3.

Table 3: Threatened fauna likely to occur within the VMP area

Scientific Name Common Name

Conservation Status

TSC Act EPBC Act

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret - M

Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied Bat V V

Falsistrellus tasmaniensis Eastern False Pipistrelle V -

Miniopterus australis Little Bentwing Bat V -

Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis Eastern Bent-wing Bat V -

Myotis macropus Southern Myotis V

Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-Fox V V

(E = Endangered, M = Migratory, V = Vulnerable, EEC = Endangered Ecological Community)

A full list of fauna species recorded within the VMP area is available in Appendix B.



Figure 2: Top of Bank mapping and tributaries within the VMP area



Figure 3: Vegetation communities, threatened flora and fauna



3 Management Zones

3.1 Management overview

The VMP area has been divided into management zones based on vegetation type, natural resilience

and the type of work to be carried out. The management zones are illustrated in (Figure 4).

Table 4: Management zones and the condition mapped within the VMP area.

Management

Zone Description Size (ha) Condition

1 High resilience vegetation 2.73 Very High

2 Threatened flora and edge effects 1.80 High

3 Riparian corridor 12.73 Moderate - Poor

4 Revegetation grassland 1.09 Poor

Subsequent sections of this VMP outline the treatments applied to each of these zones. Prior to works

undertaken for the treatment zones, site preparation is required. Preliminary works are required to

assist in the objectives outlined in Section 1.2. A planting list has been provided in Appendix C.

Preliminary works include:

fencing

seed collection

habitat enhancement

threatened species management

erosion control

feral animal control

3.2 Preliminary works

3.2.1 Fencing

In the vicinity of construction works and vehicular movement the VMP area is to be fenced using

temporary construction fencing to prevent encroachment of civil machinery and compaction of soil

during the construction period. Fencing must be erected prior to construction works and signage

erected to distinguish areas of vegetation that must be retained. Temporary construction fencing

should consist of star pickets with highly visible plastic mesh or similar.

Fencing may be removed once construction has been completed, although it is recommended that

fencing is retained to prevent pest animals from impacting on the revegetation works. Fencing to

exclude feral animals must be strong enough to prevent deer movement and small enough to exclude

rabbits.

Additional fencing and signage is required around the patch of Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina

prior to construction works to prevent further accidental damage. A tree preservation zone is required

for all vegetation to be retained outside of the subject site. This may include fencing around the trees to

prevent root damage or armouring the trunk to prevent accidental damage.



3.2.2 Seed collection

Collection of seeds is required to achieve the revegetation works outlined in the treatments in the

section below. It may take up to 9 months for seeds to germinate so this should be conducted prior to

on-ground works. Collection of native seeds should be taken from within the development footprint

where possible.

Revegetation must use local provenance species. Groundcovers, shrubs and trees should be collected

from within a 5 km radius of the site. Should seed not be available within 5 km, this radius can be

extended to a maximum of 10 km. Seed may be collected from within the direct impacted subject site

and adjacent vegetation. Permission may be required to collect provenance seeds within conservation

areas. Native grasses typically have much larger dispersal ranges and are to be collected from within a

10 km radius of the site. Where the species identified in this VMP cannot be sourced, they may be

substituted for other local endemic species as identified in Tozer (2003). Trees must be substituted with

trees, shrubs with shrubs etc. Horticultural varieties are not acceptable for use in revegetation under

any circumstances. Where plantings are required within the subject sites’ landscaping and gardens,

native provenance species are strongly recommended. Record keeping of seed collection and planting

locations is to be as per the Flora Bank Guidelines (Mortlock 2000). The bush regeneration contractor

is responsible for recording this information and providing it to BCC if requested. A Section 132C

licence under the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) will be required to undertake

seed collection works.

3.2.3 Fauna habitat enhancement

The dense layer of woody weeds within the VMP area is ideal sheltering and foraging habitat for small

birds. The removal of these woody weeds may displace small birds, however, if woody weeds were to

remain these will ultimately cause further decline in the health of the TEC’s. It is recommended that

large cut woody weeds remain as temporary sheltering habitat for small birds provided that fruit and

vegetative matter are removed. Mosaic pattern of weed removal may also assist in the transition for

small birds. Following successful weed removal, areas may require revegetation and should include

native shrubs such as Bursaria spinosa (Blackthorn) within the upper banks of AW.

Planting of native eucalypt species will also provide long-term foraging and sheltering habitat for fauna

species: including birds, amphibians and arboreal mammals. Where native woody material will be

cleared from the subject site, this material will be used as micro-habitat for fauna. Large woody material

should be relocated into the AW to assist in bank stabilisation or mulch. Branches with a diameter of

10-20 cm and 1-4 metres in length will be spread randomly throughout the site at low density; no two

branches will be closer than 10 metres.

Accumulated leaf litter is important habitat for invertebrates such as the endangered Meridolum

corneovirens (Cumberland Plain Land Snail). This is highly specialist feeder. It forages on fungi which

grows on the roots of Eucalyptus species namely, E. tereticornis and E. moluccana. These trees were

limited in the VMP area. However, revegetation works will be conducted and will include planting of

these species. It is recommended that accumulated leaf litter which is free of weed propagules is

translocated from the development footprint into the VMP area.

3.2.4 Management of Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina

A population of Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina requires specific management specifications to

protect this species from weed invasion and any indirect impacts associated with the proposed bulk

earthworks. A large patch of Blackberry and exotic grasses Chloris gayana (Rhodes Grass) currently

threaten the regeneration potential in adjacent vegetation. Large introduced herbivores were also

recorded within this patch. While the adult leaves are protected from herbivory, the juvenile saplings



are palatable and vulnerable to herbivory and trampling (NPWS 2002). Fencing of the population is

required during construction phase.

3.2.5 Erosion Control

An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP), preferably as part of a Construction Environmental

Management Plan (CEMP), must be developed and implemented prior to any on-ground works. These

should be in accordance with best management practices as described in Landcom’s Blue Book (2004).

Erosion and silt control structures must be visually inspected every week and immediately after rainfall.

Accumulated sediments must be removed from silt traps to prevent leaching into Eastern Creek or

impacting TECs or threatened flora.

Erosion control structures are also required to stabilise creek banks. Rip rap structures should be

installed at the mouth of the proposed drainage line into Eastern Creek in consultation with a qualified

ecologist or bush regenerator. This area should be monitored during the lifetime of the VMP for signs of

erosion.

Jute matting or coil logs are suitable biodegradable structures which may assist in the stabilisation of

creek banks in erosion prone areas. Large logs may also be used to stabilise areas. Revegetation of

creek banks will assist in the long-term improvement of creek lines and water quality.

3.2.6 Soil translocation

Re-use of top soil from within the development footprint (i.e. the ‘donor site’) has been proposed as a

suitable method to revegetate areas of low native resilience. This task must be conducted prior to on-

ground works within the development footprint and under the direct supervision of a qualified bush

regenerator or restoration ecologist.

The donor site should be free of weed propagules prior to translocation. Additionally, the vegetation

type of the donor site must be the same community as the recipient site.

Site preparation for the recipient site is also required. This involves the primary and secondary

treatment of weeds. Soil translocation has been recommended in revegetation areas within

management zone 3 or zone 2.

Soil translocation of threatened ecological communities requires approval from OEH and a NSW

Scientific license. The Recovering bushland on the Cumberland Plain (DEC 2005a) recommends soil

translocation is conducted in accordance with the Guidelines for Translocation of Threatened Plants in

Australia (Vallee et al 2004).

3.3 Contractor qual if ications and NPWS licence requirements

A suitably qualified and experienced bush regeneration contractor is required to implement this VMP.

They should be a member of the Australian Association of Bush Regenerators (AABR) or should

possess the required qualifications and experience for membership. In addition to this, team leaders

should have, as a minimum, a Certificate III in Conservation & Land Management or equivalent. The

contractor will need to carry out best practice bush regeneration techniques as described by Buchanan

(2009). A flexible approach to this site is recommended since techniques may need to be changed or

modified to suit site conditions. This approach is consistent with adaptive management and allows the

contractor to develop and build on site knowledge whilst implementing this VMP. Monitoring will assist

in the development of the VMP actions in subsequent years. Under the NPW Act a section 132C

license is required to work within threatened communities and to collect seed from threatened

communities and species.



3.4 Treatment zones

3.4.1 Management zone 1 – High native resilience

This management zone represents vegetation with high native species diversity, low weed densities

and very high resilience (2.73 ha). There are two vegetation communities within this management

zone, AW and RW (Figure 3). Both communities require similar management techniques and effort.

This site may provide a minor source of native seed collection for direct seeding used in other

management zones.

This zone consists of two patches, separated by the proposed extent of works (Figure 4). The northern

patch consists of RW, while the southern patch consists of AW. The main management objectives of

this zone are to:

remove exotic weeds to promote native regeneration

provide a stable base from which to improve the overall connectivity of the VMP area.

RW has been mapped along the minor tributary before it converges with Eastern Creek. The canopy is

dominated by a single species Casuarina glauca (Appendix D - Plate 1). The ground cover varies from

dense patch of Microlaena stipoides to very sparse groundcovers. Native shrubs are absent from the

vegetation community. Exotic weeds include edge effect of Blackberry and African Lovegrass. The

interior includes patches of Small-leave Privet and Trad.

The AW portion of this zone is mapped south of the RW. It occurs adjacent to patch of Grevillea

juniperina subsp. juniperina. The vegetation has a sparse canopy of Angophora floribunda and

Melaleuca styphelioides (Appendix D - Plate 2). Native species dominate the groundcover, including

Microlaena stipoides, although exotic species have also established. Hand weeding of small herbs and

grasses and cut and paint for woody weeds is recommended within this patch.

This area is a high priority as it will yield long-term cost effective returns. Native regeneration within the

management zone relies on the high native resilience and species diversity throughout the zone. Soil

disturbance should be kept to a minimum where possible. Manual weed control techniques and

selective herbicide use will be used to assist in the removal of weeds.

Primary weed control in this zone will include:

spot-spray large patches of Blackberry

skirt and spot-spray Balloon Vine

stem-scrap Green Cestrum

cut & paint Privet.

Small herbs, Bridal Creeper and grasses may be hand removed. Secondary and follow-up application

may be required for all these weeds. Revegetation works are not required. Removal of accumulated

litter from stormwater flows is also required from within this zone.

3.4.2 Management zone 2 – Threatened flora and edge effects

This management zone represents vegetation with high resilience which have potential to regenerate

following the target removal of exotic weeds but are located along a current or future site edge (1.80

ha). These areas are subject to “edge effects” or the transition between areas of high resilience

vegetation and disturbed grasslands. This zone also includes high priority management areas such as

the threatened species Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina (Figure 3).



This management zone is divided into three main patches, two in the central portion and one in the

south, consisting mostly of AW and Disturbed Grassland with small areas of RW (Figure 4).

The main management objectives of this zone are to:

protect and enhance the population of Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina within the

VMP area (Appendix D – Plate 3).

encourage native regeneration and improve the connectivity of vegetation.

The vegetation within this management zone contains regenerating native shrubs and scattered canopy

species and exotic pastoral grasses, with few woody weeds. The regeneration potential of native

species is high, although weed densities are also significant within the understorey layer and need to be

managed. As such, revegetation has not been included in this management zone.

The population G. juniperina subsp. juniperina is located at the outer edge of AW vegetation in the

central patch of this zone. There is evidence that the soil profile has been previously disturbed, possibly

during the construction of vehicle access tracks. The population contains a number of adults and

regenerating individuals. There is potential for this population to increase, however a number of

potential issues must be managed. These include:

competition from woody weed species

encroachment by Casuarina glauca seedlings.

herbivory of juvenile G. juniperina subsp. juniperina by domestic and feral species

changes to hydrology, soil nutrients and overshading from the adjacent detention basin

It is recommended that a pest control plan, developed in conjunction with other local landowners be

developed. Further, as per the specifications of Section 3.2.1, fences should be installed to prevent

both unauthorised access and herbivory. Finally, an ESCP or CEMP should be developed

incorporating the management recommendations of the flora and fauna assessment (ELA 2013) and

this document should be developed to prevent impacts during construction.

Removal of all noxious weeds is a high priority within this management zone, especially Blackberry.

This will be addressed during primary weed control. Follow-up secondary and maintenance weed

control will target new or regenerating noxious weeds and exotic herbs and grasses including; African

Lovegrass and Rhodes Grass. Weed control methods will use minimal disturbance where possible and

limit the use of herbicides. Hand removal techniques will be used for most weeds and stem scrape

method for Blackberry (See Appendix E). Herbicide use within a five metre buffer of the G. juniperina

subsp. juniperina is not permitted due to the high risk of spray drift on non-target species.

This management zone is also suitable location for fauna habitat enhancement. Large woody debris

and leaf litter may be used to improve fauna habitat. This may also provide suitable habitat

enhancement for the Cumberland Plain Land Snail.

3.4.3 Management zone 3 – Riparian corridor

This management zone encompasses riparian vegetation of moderate to poor resilience along Eastern

Creek (12.73 ha). This zone is comprised mainly of AW (Appendix D – Plates 4 - 6) with small areas of

RW, Disturbed Grassland and Exotic Weeds as well (Figure 3). This zone is subject to repeated and

ongoing impacts from stormwater drainage, which will increase as the area is urbanised.

This management zone is one continuous patch along the eastern bank of Eastern Creek and the

western/southern bank of the northern-most tributary (Figure 4).



The main management objectives of this zone are to:

alleviate the pressure of the intense infestation of exotic species on the native vegetation

through intensive weed removal

increase the width of the riparian corridor along Eastern Creek (to 40 m where possible)

maintain and establish native habitat for small bird species

improve water quality

stabilise creek banks.

Canopy comprises of Casuarina glauca and Angophora floribunda. Native shrubs are limited to one

species, Acacia parramattensis (Parramatta Wattle), on the upper slope of the riparian corridor.

Occasionally small patches of Microlaena stipoides are located in this management zone.

Weed densities are high throughout the zone. In some areas native species are absent from all strata.

In the south, Balloon Vine has entered the canopy and has placed considerable stress on the native

canopy. In the north woody weeds, including Small-leaved Privet, are prevalent. Trad occurs as thick

layers in the northern half of this zone, often over lapping with areas of Privet. Overall the native

resilience has been significantly impacted by previous disturbances and suppression by exotic weeds.

Management of this area should utilise these areas of resilience as a focal point before attempting weed

removal in higher density areas. Primary weed control should target Balloon Vine in the canopy and

Privet.

An isolated patch of Alternanthera philoxeroides (Alligator Weed) was located where the second order

tributary converges with Eastern Creek. Removal of this weed is a high priority as it has the potential to

spread downstream and have significant ecological impacts if not controlled. Weed control techniques

are available in Appendix E.

There are areas along Eastern Creek which contain very few, if any, native species. One of the main

objectives of this zone is to increase the width of the riparian corridor. This is also a requirement

according to the riparian corridor management guidelines outlined in the Growth Centres Development

Code (DIPNR, 2004). Eastern Creek is a level 1 stream and categorised as Environmental Corridor

(ELA 2011). As such a core riparian buffer of 40 metres and 10 metre vegetative buffer are required,

measured from the TOB (DIPNR, 2004). In areas where the native vegetation does not achieve the

desired buffer, revegetation works are required. These have been marked in Figure 4. CPW species

should only be used more than 50 metres from the TOB, though there will be overlap between AW, RW

and CPW species. Appendix C provides an example of what types of species should be planted in

each vegetation community. Revegetation should include canopy, shrub and ground cover species.

Planting densities are available in Section 4 of this report.

Revegetation works will be undertaken as part of the management objectives. Revegetation accounts

for 2.91 ha of management zone 3. Planting specifications are outlined in Section 4. Revegetation

may use either hiko or tube-stock. This has been recommended as the most cost effective and long-

term viable strategy for this management zone. Recommended planting list is available in Appendix C.

Regular maintenance work to control weeds and maintain revegetation will be required.

Besides high weed infestation there are also issues with erosion, slumping of creek banks and

compaction of soils from large introduced herbivores. Jute matting should be placed in areas of high

erosion potential following the removal of Trad and Privet near the edge of Eastern Creek. Large

woody logs can be supplemented for erosion structures along the contours of the bank. Revegetation

works are required following completion of primary and secondary weed removal. Minimal soil

disturbance methods and non-selective herbicide formulated for use around water (e.g. Roundup© Bi-



active™) should be used along the creek bank. Where possible large woody weeds will be cut &

painted and roots will remain in-situ to add stabilisation.

Concrete was noted in the southern section of this management zone in areas with no native species.

Concrete should be removed and the soil surface tilled to reduce soil compaction. Herbicide application

is required to control exotic grasses and woody weeds.

To avoid the displacement of small birds during weed control treatments it is recommended that weed

removal is staggered. A mosaic pattern for weed removal has been recommended as best

management practices for the Cumberland Plain Woodland (see Table 5) and should be adopted for

this management zone. It is further recommended that burn piles remain in the management zone to

supplement roosting habitat for small birds. Planting of native shrubs such as Bursaria spinosa

(Blackthorn) will provide habitat for small birds.

Table 5: Example of mosaic weed removal pattern as adopted from Recovering Bushland on the Cumberland Plain (DEC 2005)

Upslope 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2

Downslope 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4

Choose upslope sites to begin weeding; weed in number 1 areas and allow for regeneration/revegetation to develop in these

areas to a height of no less than 1 to 2 metres, or a density similar to the previous weed cover, before commencing on number 2

areas and so on.

3.4.4 Management zone 4 – Revegetate native grassland

This management zone encompasses a large area of Disturbed Grassland in the north of the VMP area

with poor resilience (1.09 ha) (Figure 3). This zone will be revegetated as Derived Native Grassland

(DNG), a sub-community of the CEEC CPW. DNG occurs in areas where native canopy has been

removed and only a native grasses remain. Native grasslands provide important foraging habitats for

native fauna species such as birds, macropods and microbats.

This management zone consists of one patch near the north of the VMP area (Figure 4) (Appendix D –

Plate 7).

The main management objective of this zone is to:

maintain diverse habitat for the range of species found in the VMP area, including

migratory species, by preserving some areas of open grassland.

The open grassland is dominated by exotic species Cynodon dactylon (Couch) and Senecio

madagascariensis (Fireweed). Native grasses are present in low densities, Bothriochloa macra (Red

Grass) and Themeda australis and Microlaena stipoides. Native sedges (Ficinia, Gahnia and Carex

species) are also present within depressions on the outer edge of the grasslands. These species will

assist in the revegetation of this grassland. An integrated management technique will be incorporated

as part of the management strategy for the recovery of this zone.

Direct seeding of native herbs, grasses and sedges will be used to revegetate the grassland. Direct

seeding should include a slurry of seed, mulch and fertilizer. The timing of the direct seeding will



influence the success rate. Optimal conditions for direct seeding are moist conditions during shoulder

seasons (spring and autumn). A planting list is available in Appendix C for DNG communities.

Maintenance weed control is required to control the establishment of exotic weeds. Treatment may

include use of hand tools, brush cutter or spot spray provided no impact to seedlings occur.

Native densities should achieve an overall coverage of 70% native grasses such as Themeda australis

and remaining 30% combination of native herbs and forbs including: Cheilanthes sieberi, Asperula

conferta and Dichondra repens.

Grazing by herbivores is a threat to the establishment of seeds and young plants. It is recommended

that exclusion fencing is installed around the perimeter.



Figure 4: Management zones



4 Planting

Revegetation of native species is required as part of the management actions outlined in the

Section 3.4 and summarised in the following table.

Table 6: Recommended densities per management zone according to vegetation community

Management

Zone

Vegetation

community

Area

(m2)

Revegetation

Area (m2)

Planting densities (m2) Total

Plants

Required Tree Shrub Ground Direct

seeding

1 RW and

AW 27,300 - Not required -

2 AW 18,000 - Not required -

3 AW 127,300 29,700 1

/25m2 1 /10m2 4 /m2 - 122,958

4 DNG 10,900 10,900 - - - ~100gm /m2 -

Totals 183,500 40,600 1

/25m2 1 /10m2 4 /m2 ~100gm /m2 122,958

Where revegetation is required the following guidelines apply:

planting location densities and species selection will follow the specifications detailed in

Section 3.4

plantings may be either tube stock or hiko cells.

herbaceous species will be planted in clumps of 4-6 of the same species.

biodegradable tree guards will be installed to protect saplings from predation and extreme

climatic conditions;

plants will be watered after planting, additional watering is required in the first month after

planting; Irrigation system or a watering schedule is required in hot, dry conditions until

plants have established; and

monitoring of the success rate is required; if success rate is below the performance criteria

(Section 7.4) replacement plantings are required.

Recommended direct seeding and tubestock planting list and densities is available in Appendix C.

Diagnostic species of the AW, RW, DNG and CPW have been used to compile species list.

Tubestock

Tubestock planting densities in woodland revegetation areas should achieve:

trees – 1 per 25m2,

shrubs - 1 per 10 – 15m2

groundcover / Grass species - 4 per 1m2



Lower planting densities are required in existing vegetative areas. If success rate is less than 80%

replacement planting is necessary.

Indicative costs of tubestock (based on pricing in 2015)

trees – $4 / plant includes plant, installation and biodegradable bag

shrubs - $4 / plant includes plant, installation and biodegradable bag

groundcover species - $3 / plant includes plant, installation and biodegradable bag

grass species - $2 / plant includes plant and installation

Direct seeding

Direct seeding seed mixes may contain either a mix of native ground cover species, primarily grass

species or contain a mix of species relating more to a woodland outcome. The grassland mix relates to

potential DNG restoration area in Management zone 4. Woodland mix is appropriate for AW, RW and

CPW at a ratio of approximately 10:30:60 for canopy:shrub:groundcover species. Direct seeding in

woodland is an alternative method if tube-stock planting is not conducted.

Indicative costs of cleaned seed (based on pricing in 2015)

trees - $200-800 / kg

shrubs - $100-400 / kg

groundcover species - $100-500 / kg

grass species - $300-1,000 / kg

Indicative costs of direct seeding installation and site preparation

soil preparation works including ripping and application of gypsum - $1-2 / m2

spreading of native seed - $0.75-2 / m2

application of imported native mulch to a depth of 75-100mm - $4-5 / m2



5 Implementation

5.1 Proposed t imeline

This VMP is to be implemented over a five (5) year program to achieve the performance criteria: This

includes an initial weed control phase of two years and a maintenance phase of three years.

Woody weeds - site preparation and weed control of woody weeds may take up to 2 years

to reduce weed density to less than 10%.

Exotic pasture grass control – Eliminating exotic pasture grasses is notoriously difficult

given their ability to regenerate from seed and vegetatively. This is exacerbated in mixed

grasslands where both native and exotic species occur. Also, the soil seed bank is likely to

contain an overwhelming abundance of exotic species. While the majority of removal of

these species is expected to take place in the first two years, ongoing maintenance will be

required over the entire VMP timeline.

Direct seeding -The success of direct seeding will depend, to a large extent, on the ability

to control the exotic pasture grasses prior to and following seeding, additionally, the site

preparation and season seeds are sown. Only one year has been allocated to carry out

both primary and secondary weed control. In addition to this, the ability to carry out direct

seeding will also be dependent on the weather, which can be variable and unpredictable at

times. Much of the grassland areas are located on a floodplain and this could also hamper

progress if flooding or poor drainage delays revegetation works or results in extensive seed

and tubestock loss.

Propagation - The time required to collect and propagate seeds has not been included in

the timeframe for this VMP

Maintenance of revegetation - There is limited time for maintenance of the tubestock

plantings in the riparian corridor reintroduction.

A summary of the actions required prior to construction within the subject site is illustrated in Table 6.

5.2 Management beyond life of VMP

This VMP has an operational life of 5 years. Beyond that period it is recommended that the final bush

regenerator provides suitable management actions to guide further work if required and ensure the

quality of the environmental conservation zone is maintained. The land holder will have ongoing

responsibilities for the management of weeds listed under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. The final

report for the VMP will include on-going weed treatment and suitable management objectives (see

Section 7.6). These should be met in accordance with SEPP Appendix 7 s6.6(3) (d).



Table 7: Proposed timeline for management zones

Management Zones Year 1 Year 2 Years 3-5

Development footprint

(prior to construction)

Prior to construction the following actions are required:

Collection of native provenance seeds

including canopy, shrub and ground cover

species

Felled native trees to be retained for habitat

use in the MZ 1-4.

Accumulated leaf litter to be used in MZ 3

Soil translocation from development footprint

to be used in MZ 4

Installation of nest boxes

1 – High native

resilience

Primary control all weeds

Monitoring and reporting

Secondary weed control


Maintenance weed control


2 – Threatened flora

and edge effects

Install exclusion fence and erosion control

Implement pest control plan (if required)

not costed in this VMP

Primary treatment of Blackberry and exotic grasses

(Rhodes Grass and African Lovegrass)

Relocate leaf litter and woody debris from development

footprint for habitat enhancement in this zone

Monitor health and population of Grevillea juniperina

subsp. juniperina


Secondary treatment of Blackberry and exotic

grasses

Monitor health and population of G. juniperina

subsp. juniperina and herbivore populations


Maintenance all weed species

Monitor health and population of

Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina




Management Zones Year 1 Year 2 Years 3-5

3 – Riparian corridor

Bank stabilisation works – jute matting, coil logs and

woody debris

Rip-rap structures in high erosion prone areas –

not costed in this VMP

Removal of Alligator Weed (high priority)

Primary and secondary control of Privet and Balloon

Vine using mosaic pattern

Site preparation - tilling soil -

assumes concrete pathways have been removed

Provide burn piles for small bird habitat

Revegetation as per Figure 4


Primary and secondary control of Trad

Maintenance of all other weeds

Revegetation (tube-stock)


Revegetation (tube-stock) - Year 3

Replacement planting if required –

Year 4-5


Establish a 40 metre buffer from top

of bank


4 – Revegetate

grassland (DNG)

Slash exotic grasses prior to setting seed in warmer

months


Secondary weed control (spot spraying and

hand removal)


Direct seed with native grasses,

herbs and sedges – Year 3

Second direct seed application if

required – Year 4





6 Estimated cost

The cost of implementing This VMP over a three year period is approximately $ 1,282,568 over five

years (Table 8). Costs may vary significantly over consecutive years of management according to the

response of the management zones to the weed control techniques. On-going maintenance costs

(labour and materials) may also increase over time with inflation. Additional costs are itemised,

including revegetation using hiko, tubestock or direct seeding, and the installation of mulch and jute

matting. It is expected that the revegetation expenses are largely incurred within the first three years,

and subject to the success of site preparation and plant survival, ongoing costs can be relatively minor.

Costs to conduct revegetation and weed control works are based on commercial rates for qualified bush

regenerators, estimated at $95/hr for the site manager and $53/hr for senior bush regenerators.

Indicative costings have been included for the preparation of reporting and monitoring works. Costs to

conduct the annual reporting are based on commercial rates for qualified ecologists, estimated to be

$120/hr.

Installation of next boxes is not included in the table but is expected to cost $3,000 - $5,000.

A detailed breakdown of the costing estimates is provided in Table 8 and Table 9.

Table 8: Indicative costs per tasks for each management zone.

Treatment

Management zones

Total 1 2 3 4

Area (m2) 27,300 18,000 127,300 10,900 183,500

Primary weed control $ 20,475 $ 18,000 $ 148,650 $ 10,900 198,025

Secondary weed control $ 13,650 $ 13,500 $ 127,300 $ 8,175 162,625

Maintenance weed control $ 20,475 $ 13,500 $ 190,950 $ 16,350 241,275

Preparation Work $ - $ 18,000 $ 56,400 $ 21,800 96,200

Jute Matting / Mulch and Installation $ - $ - $ 126,900 $ 24,525 151,425

Tubestock and installation $ - $ - $ 254,232 $ - 254,232

Replacement costs (10%) $ - $ - $ 25,423 $ - 25,423

Direct seeding $ - $ - $ - $ 109,000 109,000

Replacement Direct seeding (if required) $ - $ - $ - $ 10,900 10,900

Monitoring & Reporting $ 4,778 $ 4,500 $ 22,278 $ 1,908 33,463

TOTAL $59,378 $67,500 $952,133 $203,558 $1,282,568



Table 9: indicative costs for management zones over five years

Management Zones

Area (m2) Year

Totals 1 2 3 4 5

1- High resilience vegetation

27,300 $21,431 $14,606 $7,781 $7,781 $7,781 $59,378

2 - Threatened flora and edge effects

18,000 $18,900 $14,400 $23,400 $5,400 $5,400 $67,500

3 - Riparian corridor

127,300 $336,406 $258,872 $195,222 $93,529 $68,106 $952,133

4 - Revegetation grassland

10,900 $11,282 $30,357 $139,357 $16,732 $5,832 $203,558

Totals 183,500 $388,018 $318,234 $365,759 $123,441 $87,118 $1,282,568



7 Monitoring and Reporting

The bush regeneration contractor will need to monitor the vegetation for changes through time. The

aim of this is to record changes to the vegetation as a result of implementing this VMP. The bush

regeneration contractor will need to establish photo monitoring points and prepare regular reports that

describe their progress and demonstrate compliance with this VMP. This will include brief quarterly

reports and a larger annual report. An audit will be carried out on a yearly basis to assess the work in

terms of complying with the performance criteria listed below.

7.1 Photo monitoring points

Photo monitoring points will be established across the VMP area to highlight changes in the vegetation

through time; it is important that areas which will be directly affected by bush regeneration activities or

revegetation are the focus of these points. Ten monitoring points are required to adequately represent

changes across the entire VMP area. The exact location of the monitoring points will be selected under

the discretion of the bush regenerator. However, the number of monitoring points within each zone

should be consistent with the following:

Zone 1 – two monitoring points

Zone 2 – three monitoring points located in the north, south and in Grevillea juniperina subsp.

juniperina patch.

Zone 3 – four monitoring points scatted throughout zone

Zone 4 – one monitoring point.

The initial photos must be taken prior to works commencing (i.e. the before shot) with subsequent

photos being taken in warmer months of each year. To do this, the bush regeneration contractor needs

to:

set up one photo monitoring points in each of the management zones

place two six foot star pickets 10 m apart

record the location (eastings and northings) of the first star picket with a GPS

as well as the bearing to the second star picket

take a digital photo from the first star picket looking towards the second star picket, the

entire length of this star picket should be visible in the photo to act as a reference point

label each digital image with a unique reference number that indicates where the photo

was taken (i.e. the photo monitoring point) and the date it was taken (e.g. 01_150830 for a

photo taken at the first photo monitoring point on the 30th August 2015).

7.2 Plot- based Monitoring

Monitoring is to be conducted annually by a qualified ecologist. Monitoring plots should adequately

represent the condition of the management zone, i.e. zone 4 should include areas of revegetated

grassland.

The BioMetric methodology as recommended by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH)

Native Vegetation Interim Type Standard (Sivertsen 2009) and detailed in the Operational Manual for

BioMetric 3.1 (DECCW 2011) is the best survey design for plot based monitoring of revegetation and

weed control programs as it includes both structural and species data. This methodology records a list

of full floristic species within a 20 m x 20 m plot nested in a 50 m transect and cover and abundance

scores for native and weed species over the 50 m transect (Figure 5).



A recording system including standard field recording sheets should be established for the collection of

monitoring data. Template field sheets are provided in the Operational Manual for BioMetric 3.1

(DECCW 2011). Reporting within a single system of all works carried out within a conservation zone is

necessary to maintain continuity of works and to correlate with monitoring of weed control and

rehabilitation success. Contractors should provide this information to the managing organisation on a

monthly basis.

Monitoring is to also include recording the extent and density of the Grevillea juniperina subsp

juniperina population shown on Figure 3.

Figure 5: Plot layout for BioMetric assessment (DECCW 2011)

7.3 Quarterly reports

The quarterly reports will need to be submitted to DHA and BCC (if required by a Condition of Consent)

and will include the following information:

a summary of works carried out for the last three months

an approximation of the time spent on each task

a map (in a GIS compatible format) of where works have taken place

a description of any problems encountered and how they were overcome

summary of seeds collection activities; including list of species, weight and locations

summary of any seed propagation from seeds collected on site, include species, amount of

seeds uses, germination success and planting success rate

opportunistic fauna observations during monitoring and bush regeneration works

any observations such as the occurrence of new species, rates of regeneration, problems

relating to the VMP area that aren’t addressed in this VMP and future recommendations.

7.4 Annual reports and performance criteria

Progress and compliance with this VMP will be monitored and reviewed annually. This process will

involve the bush regeneration contractor, DHA and BCC. A report will be prepared by the bush

regeneration contractor, which will address the performance criteria listed below. This will be followed

by a site visit by the above-mentioned parties to discuss progress and compliance with this VMP. Each

annual report will be provided to BCC.



At the completion of the five year VMP implementation period a final report will be submitted to DHA

and BCC which will then be followed by a site inspection with the bush regenerator contractor. The final

report will include additional information such as the success of the VMP over five year period and

recommendations for further improvements. The final report will also include management objectives

for the E2 zone and recommended treatments for the on-going management of the site. More

information on the requirements for the on-going management of the site at the end of the 5 years is

provided in Section 7.6.

The performance criteria for reporting are listed below.

Commencement of all tasks outlined in the VMP or evidence of planning for their

implementation;

Across all zones, a demonstrated increase in native cover and diversity and a

demonstrated decrease in exotic cover and diversity by the end of Year 5.

Control of noxious and larger woody weeds including Privet, African Olive, African

Boxthorn and Green Cestrum across all zones;

o Year 1 – All adult seeding individuals to be controlled

o Years 2 – no plants allowed to set seed

o Years 3 - 5 – less than 1 % of noxious weeds remaining in the VMP area

o All years – no establishment of new noxious species

Control of agricultural weeds (Sida, cobblers pegs, etc) across all zones:

o Year 1 – 100% treatment of dense clumps (>5 plants/m², >25m2)

o Year 2 – No more than 20 % of agricultural weeds remaining

o Year 3 – No more than 10 % of agricultural weeds remaining

o Years 4 - 5 – Less than 5 % of agricultural weeds remaining within the VMP area.

Control of exotic pasture grasses across all zones

o Year 1 – No greater than 50% cover





For bush regeneration and revegetation works, native ground cover is required to achieve the NSW

biometric benchmark of 50% by the end of the maintenance period, with the following annual criteria:

o Year 1 – Minimum coverage of 10%





At the end of each year, a minimum of 85% survival rate of all revegetation is required;

Any localised plant failure within planting areas are addressed with no area larger than 2 m

x 2 metres without surviving plants;



Maintenance replating is to replace plants by the same species, or where that species is

not available, with the same growth form (i.e. tree for tree etc) and must not decrease

species diversity. Any new species must be from the community being emulated and of

local provenance;

The annual report is to include data on the % increase in native species cover and diversity

from the baseline year at the monitoring points.

Where non-performance occurs and is not immediately rectified a ‘stop the clock‘ notice on

the maintenance period will be issued by BCC until the non-performance is rectified.

7.5 Review of the Vegetation Management Plan

This implementation of this VMP will be reviewed at the end of each year following the completion of the

annual monitoring report for the life of this VMP. A review of this VMP should evaluate the

effectiveness of the current management strategy and consider appropriate recommendations to

achieve the performance criteria for each management zone.

7.6 On-going VMP management

It is a requirement that the current / future land holder provides for ongoing management of the land,

including control of noxious weeds, Weeds of national Significance and pest species. The production of

a new VMP is not required for the on-going management of the site and monitoring reports to Blacktown

City Council will no longer be required on completion of this VMP.

The bush regenerators report at the end of the 5 year implementation period will be submitted to the

BCC and the land holder. A site inspection will be required to discuss the success of the VMP and

future recommendations. The final report will include an ‘Ongoing Management Plan’ that will include:

Problem areas for action and monitoring

Suitable treatments for problem areas

Ongoing management actions table, including timeframes,

Weed control techniques.



References

Buchanan R. 2009. Restoring natural areas in Australia. Department of Industry and Investment (NSW).

Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC). 2008. Sydney Region Pest Management

Strategy 2008 -2011. DECC, Sydney, NSW.

Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (DECCW). 2011. Operational Manual for

BioMetric 3.1. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, NSW Sydney.

Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). 2005a. Recovering Bushland on the Cumberland

Plain: Best practice guidelines for the management and restoration of bushland. Department of

Environment and Conservation (NSW), Sydney

Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). 2005b. Eastern Creek demonstration site –

Western Sydney Parklands, Doonside. Sydney.

DIPNR, 2004. Riparian Corridor Management Study. Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural

Resources

Department of Primary Industries. 2013. Noxious Weed Declarations for Hawkesbury River Country

Council. Available online: http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/pests-weeds/weeds/ (Accessed 26 July

2013).

Eco Logical Australia (ELA) 2011. Schofields Precinct Biodiversity Assessment. Prepared for the NSW

Department of Planning.

Eco Logical Australia (ELA). 2013. Schofields Site – Flora and Fauna Assessment Report. Prepared for

the Defence Housing Australia.

Godden Mackay Logan Pty Ltd. 2011. Schofields Precinct – non-indigenous heritage assessment –

draft report. Heritage consultants. Prepared for Department of Planning.

Landcom. 2004. Managing Urban Stormwater – Volume 1 Soils and construction (4th ed). Blue Book

Office of Environment and Heritage. 2012. Herbivory and environmental degradation caused by feral

deer – profile. [online] Available

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20012 (Accessed 26 July

2013)

Mortlock. W. 2000. Florabank Guidelines 10 – Seed collection ranges for revegetation. Hawkesbury-

Nepean Catchment Management Trust.

Sivertsen, D 2009 Native Vegetation Interim Type Standard, Department of Environment, Climate

Change and Water NSW, Sydney

Tozer M. 2003. The native vegetation of the Cumberland Plain, western Sydney: a systematic

classification and field identification of communities. Cunninghamia 8, 1-75

Vallee L., Hogbin T., Monks L., Makinson B., Matthes M. & Rossetto M. 2004. Guidelines for the

Translocation of Threatened Plants in Australia. 2nd Edition. Australian Network for Plant Conservation,

Canberra.

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20012



Appendix A – Flora species list

Scientific Name Common Name Native/

Exotic

Noxious

Class WoNS

Acacia parramattensis Parramatta Wattle N

Acetosa sagittata Turkey Rhubarb E

Alternanthera philoxeroides Alligator Weed E 3 Yes

Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel E

Araujia sericifera Moth Vine E

Arundo donax Giant Reed E

Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern E Yes

Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper E 4 Yes

Austrostipa ramosissima Stout Bamboo Grass N

Axonopus fissifolius Narrow-leafed Carpet Grass E

Bidens pilosa Cobblers Pegs E

Briza minor Shivery Grass E

Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass E

Brunoniella australis Blue Trumpet N

Bursaria spinosa Blackthorn N

Cardiospermum grandiflorum Balloon Vine E

Carex sp. N

Casuarina cunninghamiana River Oak N

Casuarina glauca Swamp Oak N

Centella asiatica Pennywort N

Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum E 3

Cheilanthes sieberi N

Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass E

Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle E

Clematis aristata Old Man's Beard N

Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane E

Cynodon dactylon Couch E

Desmodium varians N




Exotic

Noxious

Class WoNS

Dianella longifolia Blueberry Lily N

Dichelachne micrantha Shorthair Plumegrass N

Dichondra repens Kidney Weed N

Ehrharta erecta Panic Veldtgrass E

Einadia nutans Climbing Saltbush N

Eragrostis brownii Brown's Lovegrass N

Eragrostis curvula African Lovegrass E

Erythrina x sykesii Coral Tree E

Eucalyptus moluccana Grey Box N

Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum N

Foeniculum vulgare Fennel E

Gahnia sp. N

Galium aparine Goosegrass E

Glycine clandestina N

Glycine tabacina N

Gomphocarpus physocarpus Balloon Cotton Plant E

Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina N

Grevillea robusta Silky Oak E

Hypochaeris radicata Catsear E

Imperata cylindrical Blady Grass N

Juncus usitatus N

Kunzea ambigua Tick Bush N

Ligustrum lucidum Large-leaved Privet E 4

Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet E 4

Lomandra longifolia N

Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora Many-flowered Mat-rush N

Lycium ferocissimum African Boxthorn E 4 Yes

Malva parviflora Small-flowered Mallow E

Medicago sp. E

Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Tea Tree N

Melinis repens Red Natal Grass E

Microlaena stipoides Weeping Grass N




Exotic

Noxious

Class WoNS

Modiola caroliniana Red-flowered Mallow E

Nothoscordum gracile Onion Weed E

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata African Olive E

Oplismenus aemulus Australian Basket Grass N

Oxalis sp. E

Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower N

Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum E

Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu E

Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed N

Phragmites australis Common Reed E

Phragmites australis Common Reed N

Phytolacca octandra Inkweed E

Plantago lanceolata Lamb's Tongues E

Plectranthus parviflorus Cockspur Flower N

Pteridium esculentum Common Bracken N

Pultenaea microphylla N

Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant E 4

Rubus fruticous agg. Blackberry E 4 Yes

Rumex sp. E

Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed E Yes

Senecio sp. E

Setaria parviflora E

Setaria pumila Slender Pigeon Grass E

Sida rhombifolia Paddy's Lucerne E

Sigesbeckia orientalis N

Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco Bush E

Solanum nigrum Black-berry Nightshade E

Solanum pseudocapsicum Madeira Winter E

Solanum sp. E

Sonchus oleraceus Common Sowthistle E

Stellaria media Common Chickweed E

Swainsona sp. E




Exotic

Noxious

Class WoNS

Themeda australis Kanagaroo Grass N

Tradescantia fluminensis Trad E

Triadica sebifera Chinese Tallow Tree E

Trifolium repens White Clover E

Verbena bonariensis Purpletop E

Vinca major Blue Perriwinkle E



Appendix B – Fauna species list

Common Name Scientific Name Observation

Amphibians

Common Eastern Froglet Crinia signifera W

Spotted Marsh Frog Limnodynastes tasmaniensis W

Smooth Toadlet Uperoleia laevigata W

Aves

Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acamtjoza chrysorrhoa O

Eastern Spinebill Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris W

Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata W

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita W

Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis W

Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica W

Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae O

Australian Raven Corvus coronoides O

Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus W

Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae W

Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris O

Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca O

Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen O

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena O

Yellow-faced Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops W

Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus W

Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala W

Bell Miner Manorina melanophrys W

Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta W

Red-browed Finch Neochmia temporalis O

Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis W

Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus W

Australian Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus O

Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius O



Common Name Scientific Name Observation

Noisy Friarbird Philemon corniculatus W

Red-whiskered Bulbul* Pycnonotus jocosus O

Grey Fantail Rhipidura albiscapa O

Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris W

Spotted Dove Spilopelia chinensis O

Common Myna* Sturnis tristis W

Double-barred Finch Taeniopygia bichenovii O

Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus O

Silvereye Zosterops lateralis O

MAMMALS

Domestic Dog* Canis lupus familiaris O

Domestic Cattle* Bos taurus O

Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus O

European Rabbit* Oryctolagus cuniculus Scats

European Red Fox* Vulpes vulpes Bird kill

Rusa Deer* Rusa timorensis O

REPTILE

Red-bellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacus O

* denotes introduced species



Appendix C - Recommended planting list

Life form Scientific Name Common Name AW RW DNG CPW

Trees

1 per 25m2

Angophora floribunda Rough-barked Apple x

Casuarina glauca Swamp Oak x x

Eucalyptus amplifolia Cabbage Gum x

Eucalyptus crebra x

Eucalyptus eugenioides x

Eucalyptus moluccana Grey Box x x

Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum x x

Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree x

Syzygium smithii Lilly Pilly x

Shrub

1 per 10 m2 for

CPW

1 per 15m2 for

AW

Acacia implexa x

Acacia parramattensis Parramatta Wattle x

Breynia oblongifolia Coffee Bush x

Bursaria spinosa Blackthorn x x

Callistemon salignus Willow Bottlebrush x

Daviesia ulicifolia x

Dillwynia sieberi x

Dodonaea viscosa

subsp. cuneata x

Indigofera australis x

Melaleuca decora x

Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved paperbark x x

Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower x

Solanum prinophyllum Forest Nightshade x x

Trema aspera Native Peach x

Grass

4 per m2

Aristida ramosa Purple Wiregrass x x

Aristida vagans Threeawn Speargrass x x




Austrodanthonia tenuior Wallaby Grass x x

Bothriochloa macra Red Grass x x

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass x x

Dichelachne micrantha Shorthair Plumegrass x x x

Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus

Tufted Hedgehog Grass x x x

Echinopogon ovatus Forest Hedgehog Grass x x x

Entolasia marginate Bordered Panic x x x

Imperata cylindrica var. major

Blady Grass x x x x

Microlaena stipoides var.

stipoides Weeping Grass x x x

Oplismenus imbecillis Creeping Beard Grass x x

Paspalidium distans x

Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass x x x

Sedges

4 per m2

Carex appressa x

Dianella caerulea x

Isolepis inundata x

Gahnia clarkei x

Juncus kraussii subsp.

australiensis x

Lomandra filiformis x x x

Lomandra longifolia x x

Lomandra multiflora

subsp. multiflora x x x

Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed x

Vines

1 per 10 m2

Desmodium varians Slender Tick-trefoil x x

Parsonsia straminea Common Silkpod x

Glycine clandestine - x x

Glycine microphylla Small-leaf Glycine x x




Glycine tabacina - x x

Hardenbergia violacea Purple Coral Pea x x

Other

4 per m2

Asperula conferta x x

Brunoniella australis Blue Trumpet x x

Cheilanthes sieberi

subsp. sieberi x x x

Centella asiatica x x x x

Commelina cyanea Native Wandering Jew x x

Dichondra repens Kidney Weed x x

Hypolepis muelleri Harsh Ground Fern x

Geranium solanderi Native Geranium x x

Plectranthus parviflorus Cockspur Flower x x



Appendix D - Management Zone photos

Plate 1: Management Zone 1 - high resilience native RW



Plate 2: Management Zone 1 – high resilience native AW

Plate 3: Management Zone 2 – threatened flora habitat Grevillea juniperina subsp. juniperina



Plate 4: Management Zone 3: riparian corridor with high woody weeds

Plate 5: Management Zone 3 – riparian corridor with high exotic groundcover species



Plate 6: Management Zone 3 - riparian corridor with vine thickets

Plate 7: Management Zone 4: open grassland



Appendix E - Weed Management Techniques

Weed control techniques is available in Appendix F.

African Boxthorn - Lycium ferocissimum Noxious Weed/WoNS

Description Much branched shrub with rigid spiny branches to 4 m high. Leaves fleshy, elliptic to 4 cm long. Berry to 1 cm wide on short drooping stalk. Seeds 2.5 mm long, dull yellow (Weeds Australia).

Distribution Scattered in the northern section in Management zone 3

Management Priority High

Chemical Cut and Paint of large plants. Cut stems as close to ground as possible. Foliar spray only suitable for plants up to 2m high with good leaf cover.

Mechanical Small Plants may be hand pulled. Large plants may be pulled out in winter however follow up spray of regrowth required

Biological None available.



African Lovegrass - Eragrostis curvula Environmental Weed

Description Perennial grass 30 – 120 cm tall. Flowers are grey-green and occur throughout the year in this area. Leaf tips are curly, seeds are blackish. Reproduces by seed. Commonly mistaken as a native species (Blood, 2003). This species has the ability to form dense monocultures that prevent other species from germinating.

Distribution Widespread in disturbed grassland


Chemical This species flowers opportunistically after rain. Weed control works must be able to respond to the flowering of this species to control it effectively when residual herbicide control is not used Intergrated management is required for this species - slashing prior to seed production in spring or summer (depending on climatic conditions)followed herbicide application to regrowth approx. 2-3 weeks later when it is actively growing and approx. 10 cm in length. Treated with a monocot- specific herbicide (e.g. Flupropanate).

Mechanical Small individual plants can also be dug out, but this will result in soil disturbance, which has the potential to promote weed germination.


Repeated burning to reduce seed bank and promote competitive growth in native species - hot burn in late spring or summer

African Olive - Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata Noxious Weed

Description Evergreen tree or shrub with opposite simple leaves. The upper surface of the leaves is grey-green and glossy while the lower surface has a dense covering of green or brown scales. The small black fruits are consumed by birds and spread into bushland areas.

Distribution Widespread


Chemical Small plants can be controlled by the cut and paint method using a non-specific herbicide (e.g. Glyphosate). Larger trees that are difficult to control by basal bark application.

Mechanical Mulching of large plants using a tritter machine


Burn after control to limit regrowth and germination from seed bank. Follow up may be required.



Alligator Weed - Alternanthera philoxeroides Noxious Weed/WoNS

Description A summer growing perennial herb which is rooted at the water’s edge and spreads out as a floating mat over the water surface, and over the adjacent moist ground. Spreading stems may be green, yellow or red and are hollow. Leaves are in opposite pairs, narrow slightly fleshy and with a waxy surface. Flowers are small, white, papery, on short stalks in the leaf axils. (NSW DPI 2009)

Distribution Localised in one section at junction of Eastern Creek and tributary (MZ 3)


Chemical An intergrated approach is necessary to control this infestation. An initial herbicide application followed by deep manualbdigging to remove all plant material (above and below ground). Refer to the Alligator Weed Control Manual (2007) for detailed instructions which are required when removing this species

Mechanical

Biological

Not suitable for current location

Asparagus Fern - Asparagus aethiopicus WoNS

Description Asparagus Fern produces bright red berries, thick tuberous roots and sharp spikes along the stem.

Distribution Localised in north of VMP


Chemical Spot spraying with a non-selective (e.g. Glyphosate and surfactant) or dicot selective herbicide (e.g. Metsulfuron-methyl) in the autumn is an appropriate method of control for the Asparagus Fern.

Mechanical Asparagus Fern will need to be crowned but roots may be left in the soil. All vegetative material with reproductive potential, including rhizomes and berries should be bagged and disposed of to reduce the potential for spread.

Biological

Burn in summer to autumn. Follow up may be required.



Blackberry - Rubus fruticosus agg. Noxious Weed/WoNS

Description Sprawling shrub capable of producing dense thickets in both open areas and gullies. Sharp thorns are found along the woody branches (canes). The dark green leaves are divided into 3 or 5 leaflets in a palm- like arrangement. The fruit is edible although not recommended due to the risk of herbicide exposure. “Blackberry” refers to a complex of species found in the group referred to as Rubus fruticosus agg. spp. Fourteen different closely related species are present in Australia.

Distribution Scattered throughout VMP but most significant is adjacent to threatened flora species (MZ2)


Chemical Blackberry may be controlled by spot spraying using a specific herbicide. A single application is generally ineffective and a repeat application will be required the following years. Ongoing monitoring will be required for no less than three years. Small infestations or plants within sensitive environments may be controlled using the cut and paste method (where the blackberry crown is scraped and herbicide applied to the scrape).

Mechanical Small individual plants can be dug out, but this will result in soil disturbance, which has the potential to promote weed germination and, therefore, is not recommended.

Biological A biological control agent is available for European varieties of Blackberry.

Balloon Vine - Cardiospermum grandiflorum Environmental Weed

Description Herbaceous climber with stems with rusty hairy stems. Fruit capsule in paper-like cover. Leaves divided into 3 which may be toothed. Dispersal by wind and water. Very common along riparian areas. Seeds have short viability

Distribution Widespread throughout VMP


Chemical Cut and paint large plants use herbicide suitable near waterways such as Round-Up Bi-active.

Mechanical Hand remove or dig small plants. Or larger individuals cut at base and dig out dig roots. Bag capsule

Biological N/A

Not suitable as it is located in riparian corridor



Bridal Creeper - Asparagus asparagoides Noxious Weed/WoNS

Description Smothering climber with branching, wiry twining stems to 3m. Cladodes alternately arranged and are shiny green, oval with pointed tips. Berries are globular and red at maturity (Richardson et al, 2007). Foliage dies off in summer. Bridal creeper may form dense monocultures, and is regarded as a very serious threat to biodiversity.

Distribution Widespread throughout VMP


Chemical Herbicide use is also used for control of Bridal Creeper however, only small isolated individuals have been identified and should consider non-herbicide methods such as hand removal. Spot spray Glyphosate during August to September or Metsulfuron-methyl in June to August.

Mechanical Physical removal is suitable for isolated patches of Bridal Creeper. Removal of rhizomes and tubers is required to effectively remove these species. All vegetative material with reproductive potential, including rhizomes and berries should be bagged and disposed of to reduce the potential for spread.

Biological There are several biological treatment options for Bridal Creeper. Zygina sp. (Bridal Creeper Leafhopper) and Puccinia myrsiphylli (Bridal Creeper Rust Fungus) have been used in high weed densities in southern Australia with some positive results. These methods are more appropriate in significant infestations rather than small isolated patches.

.

Castor Oil Plant - Ricinus communis Noxious Weed

Description Perennial shrub to 6m with large palmate leaves.

Distribution Localised in southern portion of VMP area


Chemical Basal spray or cut and paint with a dicot selective herbicide (e.g. Triclopyr). Herbicides may be used with a wetting agent to improve saturation and uptake by the plant. Where Castor Oil is located in or in proximity to standing water, use only a herbicide formulated for use around water (e.g. RoundUp© Biactive™).

Mechanical Manual removal immature plants (< 1 m in height). Physical removal of larger individuals is discouraged as this will result in disturbance to the soil profile. Use herbicide application for management of mature individuals (see Chemical control above).

Biological Not applicable.



Fireweed - Senecio madagascariensis Environmental Weed/WoNS

Description Small erect perennial herb with bright yellow daisy-like flowers, commonly found growing amongst grass. This species is scattered across disturbed areas. Hand weeding when the plant is in flower is possible at this site as plants are scattered.

Distribution Widespread in north and in disturbed grasslands


Chemical Herbicide application should occur prior to establishment of buds (i.e. autumn). Spot spray small patches using a dicot selective herbicide (e.g. Metsulfuron-methyl).

Mechanical Cut and bag plants. Disposal of the entire plants is required as cut plants with flowers still may develop seeds.

Biological Some native larvae species may use Fireweed as a host; however, this is not a sufficient control treatment.

Green Cestrum - Cestrum parqui Noxious Weed

Description Straggling shrub with dark green leaves which when crushed produce a burnt rubber smell. Green Cestrum is a moderate sized woody shrub with colourful flowers. Seeds are dispersed by birds. Green Cestrum is toxic to livestock, domestic animals and humans.

Distribution Widespread in riparian corridor


Chemical Stem scrap and subsequent application of a non-selective herbicide (e.g. Glyphosate) should be undertaken. This is the preferred management technique. Fruiting bodies should be removed, bagged and disposed of off-site.

Mechanical Regular slashing or mechanical digging of root system in large infestations. Green Cestrum may regrow from roots so herbicide application is still required. Small immature seedlings may be carefully removed by hand, provided that all the roots system is removed and the soil remains intact.

Biological Not applicable



Kikuyu - Pennisetum clandestinum Environmental Weed

Description Kikuyu is a perennial ground-hugging grass which spreads by runners. It is cultivated for pastures, lawns and playing fields and is a common weed of gardens, roadsides and disturbed sites (Weeds Australia).

Distribution Widespread in disturbed grasslands


Chemical Spray with registered herbicide

Mechanical Topspoil scalping required for mechanical control

Biological

Privet Large-leafed- Ligustrum lucidum Noxious Weed

Description Photo sourced from Weeds Australia. Harless shrub or tree to 12 metres with fleshy purple black fruits. Leaves entire with paler lower surface

Distribution Scattered in low densities


Chemical Small plants can be controlled by the cut and paint method using a non-specific herbicide (e.g. Glyphosate). Larger trees which are difficult to control by the cut and paint method can be controlled by the drill and fill method using a non-specific herbicide.

Mechanical Large machinery has been used for large strands of Privets in areas away from sensitive sites such as waterways.

Biological Not applicable.



Privet Small-leafed - Ligustrum sinense Noxious Weed

Description Bushy perennial shrub with small bright green leaves. Produces long hanging bunches of dark blue, small berries which are spread by birds. This species occurs along creek lines at the site.

Distribution Widespread along Riparian corridor


Chemical Large plants may be treated using cut-and-paint techniques, and smaller plants either spot sprayed or manually removed. Treated areas will require monitoring for regrowth of cut stumps with regrowth treated accordingly, likely by spot spraying.

Mechanical Small plants and seedlings may be pulled.

Biological Not applicable

Paspalum - Paspalum dilatatum Environmental Weed

Description Photo sourced from PlantNet. Densely tufted perennials to c. 2 m tall, often forming a tough 'crown' with leafy shoots from a knotted base of very short rhizomes; nodes glabrous, or the lower sparsely pubescent (PlantNet).


Management Priority moderate

Chemical An integrated approach is required for this species involving herbicide spraying and competitive planting. Spot spraying with a selective herbicide is suitable for small infestations or scattered plants. Providing a competitive cover is also important. Mechanical

Biological N/A



Rhodes Grass - Chloris gayana Environmental Weed

Description Rhodes grass is a clumping perrenial grass which runners that rapidly cover the ground surface. Inflourescences consist of one-sided spikes clustered at the end of a stem


Management Priority Moderate

Chemical An integrated approach is required for this species involving, herbicide spraying and competitive planting. Spot spraying with a selective or non selective herbicide dependant on other species present is suitable for small infestations or scattered plants. Providing a competitive cover is also important.

Mechanical

Biological

Spear Thistle - Cirsium vulgare Environmental Weed

Description This species is widespread but tends to form dense patches, especially around trees and infrastructure, which are more easily treated.

Distribution Scattered in disturbed grassland

Management Priority Moderate

Chemical In woodland this species is best managed by spot spraying individual plants with a broad-leaf specific herbicide (e.g. Triclopyr + picloram + Aminopyralid) as the rosettes form until flowers form. In pasture areas, boom and high volume sprayers may be used during the same period.

Mechanical Mechanical control can occur up until early flowering. After this stage, plants can be slashed, in woodland plants should be chipped out if slashing will damage native species to prevent seeding. After slashing, follow up chemical treatments may be required should plants reshoot.

Biological Not available.



Trad - Tradescantia fluminensis Environmental Weed

Description Scrambling perennial with succulent stems that root at nodes to form large clumps. Leaves ovate to lanceolate, 2.5–5.5 cm long, blade with minute hairs on margins, narrowing toward base and then expanding to a broad sheath around the stem. (Weeds Australia).

Distribution Widespread in north in Management zone 3


Chemical Spray with non selective herbicide suitable for use near water

Mechanical May be removed by hand to reduce biomass. Chemical follow up treatment required

Biological



Appendix F - Weed Control Techniques

Various weed control techniques are required to control weed infestations in natural areas. Weed

infestations usually consists of a number of different weed species, densities and weed forms.

Weed control techniques are summarised below. These techniques are guidelines only and over time

weed control techniques may change and evolve. An adaptive weed management program should

include a combination of different weed control techniques and involves consideration of monitoring and

reporting outcomes and potential changes to the weed management program based on those result.

Depending on the area, density and priority, objectives of weed control may change. For example, it

may be more cost-effective to contain zones with a high weed infestation but with a low risk of

spreading into adjacent habitats or impacting on threatened species or communities, rather than

attempting to eradicate all weeds. Alternatively, it is cost effective in the long-term to eradicate weeds

in small infestations before they become larger and more widespread.

To effectively manage the issue of weed invasion an understanding of the types of vectors responsible

is important. The movement of wind and water is often considered the greatest mode of weed dispersal

into new habitats. Water is commonly responsible for the transport of weed propagules along the

riparian corridors and contributes to weeds establishing downstream watercourses. However, there are

many options for weed dispersal by vectors other than wind or water. A list of some of the potential

weed vectors and examples of weeds species is shown in Table 10, below.

Table 10: Weed vectors

VECTOR WEED EXAMPLES

DESCRIPTION ECOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS

Watercourse Trad Fleshy stems can be transported along watercourse

Widely dispersed into native and disturbed environments

Drain Balloon Vine Light paper capsules float on water Widely distributed along

creeklines and into downstream habitats

Wind Thistles, Catsear Very light seeds are windborne over long distances

Readily invades disturbed open habitats, particularly along road verges

Track Cobbler’s Pegs Burrs stick to animals and humans Invades disturbed bushland

along tracks and is carried into adjacent habitats

Birds Privet, Blackberry, African Olive

Edible fruits are dispersed over large areas

Birds increase weed dispersal into new habitats

Mammals Blackberry, Tiger Pear

Eat fruit or transport burrs on fur Mammals spread seeds or burrs into new habitats

Humans Cobbler’s Pegs, African Lovegrass

Transport propagules on clothes and shoes

Humans spread seeds or burrs into new habitats

Humans Kikuyu

Illegal dumping of garden waste

Movement of soil containing weed propagules

Introduction of weed species into new areas

Vehicles African Lovegrass, Paddy’s Lucerne

Facilitate movement of light weight propagules along roads or transport seeds in soil. Also burrs can stick to tyres.

Transport seeds into new habitats



Hygiene protocols

A strict hygiene protocol must be implemented to control the spread of weed propagules between

habitats and the accidental introduction of invasive species into sensitive areas. Best management

practices recommend work from should target areas of high native resilience to areas then move

towards high weed infestation. Weed propagules may be spread on the clothes or boots of humans or

in the soil on vehicles. It is important that all vehicles, especially earth movement, are thoroughly

washed down before moving to a new site. This also applies to humans. Clothes must be free of weed

propagules before entering into a new site.

Invasive aquatic pests such as Gambusia (Gambusia holbrooki), may seriously impact the survival of

amphibian species located in Eastern Creek and adjacent pools. No observations were made of this

species, however, these guidelines are recommended as preventative measure. Gambusia is known

as a predatory fish which preys on amphibian eggs and tadpoles. It is spread on mud carried between

pools. It may remain out of the water for up to an hour. All equipment used within aquatic

environments should be thoroughly washed with bleach prior to entering a new area. Again, the

principle applies that areas where Gambusia are known to occur are addressed last. A strict hygiene is

also needed to protect amphibians from the Chytrid (Chytridiomycosis) fungus. For best management

practices consult the NPWS Hygiene protocol for the control of disease in frogs (DECC 2008).

Principles of weed control within natural areas

Weed control programmes within natural areas follow the principles of bush regeneration including the

Bradley Method and use other techniques to promote natural regeneration as described in Buchanan

(2000). These are summarised below:

Where available, refer to best practice guidelines for individual weed species which may

need to be adapted to a natural setting and ecological outcome

Ensure correct plant identification – many weed species are difficult to identify because

they resemble native species or typically occur in a vegetative (i.e. non-flowering) form.

Limit the creation of bare patches of soil and soil disturbance in general, since this will

encourage weeds to establish and grow – do not create unnecessary tracks with vehicles

or other machinery;

As a first option for weed control, consider methods that do not use herbicide (e.g. hand

pulling and crowning) and which create very little soil disturbance;

When using herbicides, use the least toxic chemical whenever possible and always follow

the instructions;

When working on or near drainage lines, use an approved herbicide for this environment;

Refer to Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) website

(www.apvma.gov.au) for information on off-label permits;

Apply herbicides when the plants are actively growing and prior to seed set to achieve the

best results;

Regularly monitor for new infestations

Where woody weeds are providing habitat for native birds and animals, use the drill and fill

technique to enable the some structure to remain in situ while the tree or shrub dies – this

will enable the plant to provide shelter for a period of time, while giving the birds and

animals a chance to move on of their own accord. Where this is not practical considering

the size of an infestation consider a mosaic approach to control.



Integrated weed management

Integrated weed management may use a combination of any of the following techniques; mechanical,

chemical, manual handling and biological methods. According to the Department of Primary Industries’

(DPI) Noxious and environmental weed control handbook the best management practices considers a

long-term perspective and does not rely solely on herbicide application (DPI 2010).

Weed control can be broken down into three main categories:

Primary Treatment: the first weeding of the site.

Secondary Treatment: the second weeding of the site which may be very intensive as all

regrowing/germinating weeds should be removed before they seed and out-compete native

plants.

Maintenance/Follow-up Treatment: every re-weeding of the site after the secondary

phase

The first time an area is weeded (primary treatment) can be labour intensive and time consuming and

depending on the target species and site conditions. It may take over several months to complete for

one species (Buchanan 2009). In areas of high weed infestation and with no native resilience and/or

native plants present, primary weeding may be accelerated as preparatory works for revegetation.

However, in areas where native plants may occur, primary weeding should be undertaken at a pace that

assists with the natural regeneration of the site.

Secondary treatment of an areas can take longer than primary treatment as new species can be

present that more difficult to treat than the original weed (Buchanan 2009). Secondary treatment needs

to be carefully timed to:

Prevent weeds from setting seed

Suppress vegetative regrowth while plants are still small

Allow native plants to recruit without being smothered or out-competed by weeds

However, secondary treatment should allow enough time for the soil profile to recover following primary

treatment and the establishment of weed growth from the soil seed bank.

Maintenance treatment refers to weed control that is carried out after the secondary treatment

(Buchanan 2009). The goal of follow-up treatments l is to remove weedy recruits so that native species

can re-colonise the area; frequent visits are likely to be needed at first, although the amount of time and

resources used should gradually decrease through time.

Chemical Weed Control – Herbicide Application

Herbicide Selection

Any herbicide used in weed management activities must be registered for use in the appropriate

situation for the species being treated. It is the responsibility of the weed control operator to check that

the herbicide intended for use is registered at the time of control. Where herbicide application is used,

many hardy species may require re-treatment between six and twelve months after the initial treatment

to ensure mortality of individual plants.



Spot Spray Application

Hand operated spray gun connected to a knap-sack or vehicle (e.g. truck, ATV, etc.) mounted herbicide

storage tank is used to direct diluted herbicide spray to defined areas. When applied under correct

conditions, individual plants or parts of plants may be treated using this method with minimal risk of

overspray and non-target damage. Spot spraying is an effective and targeted way of treating weeds on

a landscape level, though non-target damage is possible on an individual plant level. This can be

mitigated in some situations through the use of selective herbicides.

This method is most suitable for low growing or juvenile grasses, herbs, and woody weeds that have

copious, but compact, foliage. In most cases, spot spraying should be undertaken after new growth is

produced but before flowering. Because the plant is left in situ after spraying, there is potential of seed

to mature on the plant if spraying is left to late. In some cases the target plant may also take weeks or

months to die off.

Spot spray application - examples

Boom spray application

A nozzle spray apparatus is connected to the rear of a vehicle-mounted herbicide storage tank to apply

a diluted herbicide application. Where terrain is suitable for vehicle access, large areas are typically

treated using this technique (e.g. open paddock situation). Boom spraying is a fast and economical way

of treating large areas of weeds on a landscape scale. However, boom spraying does not allow the

operator to avoid individual plants and so has a high potential for non-target damage. This can be

mitigated in some situations through the use of selective herbicides.

This method is most suitable for large areas of weed infestation without any native regeneration

potential. Alternately, where applicable selective herbicides can also be utilised in areas of some native

resilience to reduce the incidence of non-target damage (e.g. using a dicot-selective herbicide in a

grassland). This technique with the use of a boom-less spray nozzle attached to an ATV is also well

suited to weed infestations adjacent to access tracks



Boomless Spray Nozzle attached to a truck

Carpet Roller or Wick Wiper

Weed wiping is based on the principle of wiping a non-selective herbicide directly onto unwanted tall

weeds that stand above other vegetation. Generally called weed wipers or wick wipers, most provide

accurate regulation of the herbicide placement and application rate, and are available in working widths.

The wipers have the following advantages:

efficient use of herbicide

can be used under windy conditions

provide a viable Integrated Weed Management option to reduce the amount of pesticides

being introduced into the environment

Weed wipers are most effective when being used to treat one weed species in amongst a native

species (e.g. Paspalum amongst Microlaena). This requires minimal height adjustment and increases

efficiency. As with all herbicide use, this method is more effective the more coverage that can be

achieved. Thus, the greater the difference between the height of the target and non-target species the

more effective this method will be.

Splatter Gun Application

Individually operated splatter or gas guns are connected to a 5L backpack which may be equipped with

a canister of LPG. The hand gun applicator is charged with a dose of herbicide and a splatter of low

volume-high concentration herbicide solution is applied. The LPG forces the herbicide out of the pack

up to several meters distance; however, instead of a fine spray mist, as in the case of spot spray

application, the herbicide is applied in a large droplet form leaving a line of herbicide on the plant.

“Stripes” of herbicide are applied across large plants instead of coating all parts of the plant in a fine

mist.

Splatter guns are very effective as the application of the herbicide is more directed and produces limited

off target damage. This treatment provides a good alternative to spot-spraying where access is difficult

or materials have to be carried in, as they use much less water. Splatter guns can also provide an

alternative to mechanical removal or herbicide treatments requiring access to the stem of the plant (e.g.

cut and paint, drill and frill, etc.) amongst dense, low growing woody weeds such as Bitou and Lantana.

This treatment is not effective on vegetation with sparse foliage cover.



Cut and Paint

In the cut and paint treatment, the stem of the plant is cut all the way through and herbicide applied to

the stump. The plant should be cut as close to the base as possible, below any branches and the cut

should be horizontal. The remaining stump should not exceed 10mm in height. The tools required to

make the cut may be a handsaw, secateurs or chainsaw. Any dirt on the stump needs to be removed

and the herbicide needs to be directly applied within 30seconds to the stump using a dabber bottle.

Some plant species re-sprout after this treatment and follow up work may be required to kill the plant

effectively. A non-specific herbicide should be used for the cut and paint method.

The cut and paint method is suitable for the control of woody weeds, large herbaceous weeds and

vines/climbers. When done with vines/climbers it is referred to as ‘skirting’. This treatment is

commonly used when the biomass is to be removed from the site following the primary weed control. It

is most suitable for plants with a small diameter at the base and a single stem or trunk. Given that to be

effective the herbicide has to be applied as soon as possible after cutting, this method is not effective

where extensive cutting is required.

The cut and paint method (Muyt 2001, Sydney Weeds Committee 2013)

Drill and fill

The drill and fill method involves drilling a hole into the base of a tree below any branches with a hand

drill using a 9 or 10mm drill bit at an angle of 40-600. The hole should only penetrate through the sap

wood and not through to the heart wood. The hole should then be filled immediately with the

appropriate herbicide. An eye dropper or a squeeze bottle with a narrow nozzle can be used to fill the

hole. If the plant re-sprouts follow up work will be required to kill the plant. A non-specific herbicide

should be used for this treatment method.

The drill and fill method is suitable for woody weeds with a large diameter at ground height or for plants

with multiple stems at the base. This control method is useful where dead trees are intended to be left

standing as habitat trees and would be a suitable method for the eradication of large Camphor Laurels

or Broad-leaved Privet trees, providing the dead trees do not present a hazard to the public at a later

stage.



Drill and fill method for large woody trees (Muyt 2001)

Stem scrape

The stem scrape method involves using a sharp knife to scrape back the top layer of bark from the vine

20-30cm long. An appropriately mixed herbicide needs to be applied immediately (within 30 seconds)

using a dabber bottle. The root system of the plant should not be disturbed until the plant has died as

this may reduce the effectiveness of the herbicide. Skirting method may be used in conjunction with

stem scrape. This method is especially important to remove large infestations of vines within the

canopy layer. Skirting involves cutting the vines within the canopy at chest height. This will allow an

increase in the amount of light and resources to the canopy trees through the reduction of vine biomass

The stem scrape method is most useful when used to treat species that need greater herbicide

coverage than can be provided by the cut and pain method (e.g. Green Cestrum, Ochna), or a species

that has reproductive material (e.g. tubers) that must be poisoned as well (e.g. Madeira Vine). For the

latter, this is especially important if it is not possible to collect the reproductive material. However, for

most woody weeds and vines, this method is not necessary.

. Stem Scrape (Sydney Weeds Committee 2013)

Manual and Mechanical Weed Control



This technique physically removes plants from the soil and depending on the weed species may require

special conditions for disposal (e.g. some noxious weeds must not be transported off-site and must be

disposed of by deep burial). Manual treatment effectively removes the entire plant using hand tools

such as shovels or the use of heavy machinery. This technique is most productive when treating small

area infestations and successfully removes the entire plant effectively preventing future seed set.

Certain parts of plants may also be targeted for removal to prevent flowering or seed set (i.e. post

flowering but prior to mature seed being released from the fruit or seed head). Re-treatment may be

required if mature plants have previously released viable seed into the soil which may germinate post

soil disturbance.

To reduce the risk of localised increased fuel load no debris should stockpiled on site.

Hand Removal / manual methods

Hand removal of weeds involves pulling the plant as close to the base as possible and ensuring the

entire tap root is pulled out of the soil. This usually results in soil disturbance and the soil should be

replaced and compressed to prevent further weed invasion.

The successful hand removal of some other weeds may require the removal of the plant’s roots, bulbs

or tubers. This method includes digging and crowning with the use of a hand mattock, knife or trowel.

Crowning involves using a knife to cut the roots around the crown of the plant.

The hand removal or pulling of weeds is suitable for many species of weeds as long as they have a

shallow root system. This includes woody weeds, grasses and herbaceous species. It is useful for

follow up work on woody weeds to control seedlings.

Hand Pull Crown Cut Rhizome / Tuber Trace

(Sydney Weeds Committee 2013)

Mechanical Removal

This technique physically removes or destroys individual plants via a process utilising large machinery

or chainsaws. The use of large scale machinery can be extremely successful for the localised

eradication of dense infestations of woody weed species such as African Olive and Blackberry.

Weeds may be grubbed or raked out, and then removed from site or mulched in situ. Species such as

African Olive will resprout and will require follow up treatment with herbicide.



Mechanical removal is most effective with areas of high weed density, especially with woody weeds

where herbicide spray is not practical. Where machinery access is possible, this is preferred as it has

the added benefit of being able to mulch the woody weeds in situ. However, in creeklines or other

steep sites chainsaws can be used to cut down woody weeds. When using chainsaws in this way it is

recommended that only the outer layer of woody weeds and the smaller woody weeds in the interior be

completely cut down. This will provide access into the interior. The larger woody weeds in the interior

of the area should be treated by drill and frill and left standing. This allows for access through the

creekline for follow up treatments. It is recommended to leave woody debris in situ or spread out

loosely. The creation of large piles of woody debris is not recommended as it can impede follow up.

Generally, work sites where this technique is used requires a maintenance component to monitor and

control the potential reshooting root material, the germination of residual seed of the weed species and

the colonisation of the site by other weed species. In some circumstances the control program requires

follow up erosion, weed control, and revegetation programs to mitigate the risk of the aforementioned

issues.

Tritter Machine mulching African Olive Skidsteer loader raking out blackberry canes.

Slashing

Slashing involves removing some or all of the vegetative portion of a plant using mechanical blades.

The use of machine drawn slashers or on a smaller scale individually operated brush cutters can prove

extremely successful in reducing the seed load of key species.

The success of this technique is dependent on the timing of the slashing coinciding with the early

flowering of the key species, in turn removing the flower heads prior to seed set. The timely use of

slashing when combined with the use of herbicide application can provide an extremely cost effective

and environmental favourable program of weed control. Slashing reduces the vegetative material of a

plant, encourages new growth and removes dead thatch. All these factors make herbicide spraying

after slashing more efficient, effective and economical. It should be noted that as slashing is

indiscriminate it can result in non-target damage. However, unlike herbicide which kills the entire plant

slashing only removes the top portion and so can be used around native grasses especially with less

risk. This can be further mitigated through setting of the slashing height and timing of the slashing to

avoid native seed set.



Slashing Paspalum amongst native grasses

Biological Control

Biological control agents may be used for the management of some weed species. These control

agents may have limited effectiveness due to their sensitivity to environmental conditions, and so the

efficacy of this control technique depends on the ability of the control agent to establish self-

perpetuating populations.

Biological control agents are generally best applied to high density weed infestations and the control

agents (eg, Blackberry Rust) may need to be actively bred and reapplied regularly to counter natural

mortality and periods of dormancy in target species.

Release of biological controls is particularly effective in treating weed populations in areas of high

environmental sensitivity or to assist in the management of the identified weeds as part of a larger scale

control program. These agents need to demonstrate high host specificity and pose little or no threat to

other desirable plant species. If so, this is an ideal option for use in areas of threatened species or

within sensitive habitats such as along water courses. The use of biological controls is strongly

regulated to prevent the introduction of pests or diseases which impact on non-target species.



Herbicide Information

Herbicides

Herbicide application often forms an important component of an integrated weed management

approach and can be the most appropriate method to control some weed species. Many herbicides are

harmful not only to plants, but also fauna, particularly fish and amphibians.

Any herbicide used in weed management activities must be registered for use in the appropriate

situation for the species being treated. These registration requirements are provided on the product

label or an ‘Off-label Permit’. Some species which are known to be difficult to control may be treated

using combinations of herbicides registered for use in ‘Off-label Permits’ which are issued by the

Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). It is the responsibility of the weed

control operator to check that the herbicide intended for use is registered at the time of control.

The situation of control should be carefully considered to ensure correct herbicide usage. In all cases

the application technique must be aligned to the registration requirements of the individual herbicides

selected for the weed control program. Where a sensitive environment coincides with weed infestation

only herbicides suitable for use in sensitive areas (as dictated by the product registration) should be

used. For example, to target a weed infestation in close proximity to water courses such as a creek line,

a product such as Roundup® Biactive® could be used as it is registered for use in this type of situation.

Residual herbicides can be present in the soil profile for several months post application to reduce the

incidence of regrowth of the target weed species. A residual selective herbicide would not, however, be

appropriate if plans for the area involved revegetation, particularly with species intolerant to the

herbicide. This would pose a serious threat to rehabilitation maintenance works where the area was to

be revegetated with species which are susceptible to herbicide impact. Application of a residual

herbicide may reduce recruitment of these species, further compounding the maintenance issues. In

this situation a non-residual herbicide would be recommended to reduce the impact on establishing

vegetation.

Herbicides fall into two main categories with regard to their impact on particular plants

Non-selective herbicides which will, at appropriate rates, kill all plants. Glyphosate is a

non-selective herbicide.

Selective herbicides which will target either grass (monocot) species or broad-leaf (dicot)

species.

Herbicide use should occur during the active growing season for plants to encourage the chemical

uptake into the plant. Where herbicide application is used, many hardy species may require re-

treatment between six and twelve months after the initial treatment to ensure mortality of individual

plants. Off target damage is common with herbicide use and consideration should be given to the

following factors to avoid this damage.

Correct identification of target species

Spray drift in high winds

Environmental conditions at time of application



A number of selective herbicides have been approved for grasses and for broad-leaf species in the

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Noxious and environmental weed control handbook.

These selective herbicides represent a range of environmental toxicities and the Material Safety Data

Sheets (MSDS) should be referred to in each instance. For instance, Metsulfuron-methyl poses a low

risk to the environment, while Triclopyr is considered to be relatively toxic and has the potential to pose

a moderate risk to the environment. Dimethylamine salt is in the same category as triclopyr, but is

moderated by mixing it with metsulfuron-methyl.

Registration and records of any herbicide use must be kept in accordance with the NSW Pesticide

Regulation 2009.

Herbicides impact on ecosystem

The correct training and appropriate application of herbicides must be followed at all times. There is a

high risk of ecological impacts associated with use of herbicides. These risks include accidental death

of plants due to spray-drift or due to incorrect handling technique or sensitive plants. Grevillea

juniperina subsp. juniperina is sensitive to spray drift. Also there is evidence that there are indirect

impacts on microbats due to herbicide poisoning and reduced numbers of prey items for microbat

species. Where possible consider alternative methods to herbicide use.

Staff Training

All weed control operators must be properly trained and hold required certification e.g. ChemCERT®

and comply with requirements of the Pesticides Regulation 2009 (NSW) and Pesticides Act 1999

(NSW).



HEAD OFFICE

Suite 4, Level 1

2-4 Merton Street

Sutherland NSW 2232

T 02 8536 8600

F 02 9542 5622

SYDNEY

Level 6

299 Sussex Street

Sydney NSW 2000

T 02 8536 8650

F 02 9264 0717

ST GEORGES BASIN

8/128 Island Point Road

St Georges Basin NSW 2540

T 02 4443 5555

F 02 4443 6655

CANBERRA

Level 2

11 London Circuit

Canberra ACT 2601

T 02 6103 0145

F 02 6103 0148

NEWCASTLE

Suites 28 & 29, Level 7

19 Bolton Street

Newcastle NSW 2300

T 02 4910 0125

F 02 4910 0126

NAROOMA

5/20 Canty Street

Narooma NSW 2546

T 02 4476 1151

F 02 4476 1161

COFFS HARBOUR

35 Orlando Street

Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450

T 02 6651 5484

F 02 6651 6890

ARMIDALE

92 Taylor Street

Armidale NSW 2350

T 02 8081 2681

F 02 6772 1279

MUDGEE

Unit 1, Level 1

79 Market Street

Mudgee NSW 2850

T 02 4302 1230

F 02 6372 9230

PERTH

Suite 1 & 2

49 Ord Street

West Perth WA 6005

T 08 9227 1070

F 08 9322 1358

WOLLONGONG

Suite 204, Level 2

62 Moore Street

Austinmer NSW 2515

T 02 4201 2200

F 02 4268 4361

GOSFORD

Suite 5, Baker One

1-5 Baker Street

Gosford NSW 2250

T 02 4302 1220

F 02 4322 2897

DARWIN

16/56 Marina Boulevard

Cullen Bay NT 0820

T 08 8989 5601

BRISBANE

PO Box 1422

Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 T 07 3503 7193

1300 646 131 www.ecoaus.com.au

http://www.ecoaus.com.au/

Schofields DHA site

Documents

Transcript of Schofields DHA site