Appendix E Flora Survey and Fauna Habitat …...32/14625/46637 South Hercules Mine Development Proposal and Environmental Management Plan Appendix E Flora Survey and Fauna Habitat

32/14625/46637 South Hercules MineDevelopment Proposal and Environmental Management Plan

Appendix E

Flora Survey and Fauna HabitatAssessment

Minerals and MetalsGroup

Report for South HerculesBotanical Survey and Fauna

Habitat Assessment

August 2009

32/146250/7/47367 South HerculesBotanical Survey and Fauna Habitat Assessment

Contents

Acknowledgements 1

Executive Summary 2

1. Introduction 3

1.1 Background 3

1.2 Purpose of the Study 3

1.3 Study Area 3

2. Methodology 4

2.1 Background Research 4

2.2 Field Assessment 4

2.3 Nomenclature and Assessment of Significance 4

3. Biological Values 5

3.1 Flora Species 5

3.2 Introduced Plants 7

3.3 Vegetation Communities and Condition 8

3.4 Fauna Habitat Values 17

3.5 Plant Pathogens 19

4. Potential Impacts and Management Recommendations 21

4.1 Native Vegetation 21

4.2 Threatened Flora 22

4.3 Fauna Habitat 22

4.4 Introduced Plants, Pests and Pathogens 23

5. Limitations 25

References 26

Table IndexTable 1 Threatened flora previously recorded within 500m

or 5 km of the study area 5Table 2 Threatened fauna predicted to occur within 500m

and/or 5km of the study area 17


Figure IndexFigure 1 (AJ) Vegetation Community Maps 16

AppendicesA Flora Species ListB Threatened Flora Data


Acknowledgements

The Department of Primary Industries and Water is acknowledged for access to its Natural Values Atlas.

Plant identification was aided by Alex Buchanan, at the Tasmanian Herbarium.


Executive Summary

GHD has been engaged by Minerals and Metals Group (MMG) to undertake a botanical survey andfauna habitat assessment of a proposed new mine site, adjacent to the old Hercules Mine on Mt Read, inwestern Tasmania. The proposed South Hercules mine is located at the southern end of the disturbancecreated by the old Hercules Mine Site.

A field survey was undertaken to identify flora species and fauna habitat in March 2009. The key findingsof the survey are summarised as follows:

» Two threatened plant species (both listed as rare under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation Act2002) were recorded in high numbers within the alpine zone of the study area, and appeared to belocally common. These were:

o Planocarpa sulcata (grooved cheeseberry); and

o Orites milliganii (toothed orites).

» Fifteen native vegetation communities were recorded, including one threatened vegetationcommunity (Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest; RKF) listed under theTasmanian Nature Conservation Act 2002.

» Seven threatened fauna species have been predicted to occur within the study area according to theNatural Values Atlas. However, due to the absence of large, hollowbearing trees and the relativelysmall scale of suitable habitat proposed for clearance, the proposed development is unlikely tosignificantly impact on these species populations.

Approvals and/or permits currently anticipated for this project, and further recommendations are:

» The threatened community, RKF, may be impacted by the construction of the 4WD haul road and aForest Practices Plan may be required for approval from the Forest Practices Authority (FPA) beforeany works can commence.

» If more than 1 ha of any native vegetation is to be cleared, approval must be sought from the FPAunder the Tasmanian Forest Practices Act 1985.

» For the two threatened plant species, approval for disturbance of these species will be required fromthe Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE). This will involve anapplication for a ‘Permit to Take Native Flora’.

» Impacts to threatened fauna are not anticipated to be significant, however approval must be soughtfrom the FPA regarding the clearing of any threatened fauna habitat. This will include clearance forthe upgrading of Mt. Read Road, but will mostly likely exclude the alpine zone of Mt Read, which isunlikely to provide core habitat these threatened species.

» Three offset areas are recommended to compensate for the loss of the threatened plant species.These areas have been identified as suitable for this purpose, and are shown in Figure 1.


1. Introduction

1.1 BackgroundGHD has been engaged by the Minerals and Metals Group (MMG) to undertake a botanical survey andfauna habitat assessment of a proposed new mine, adjacent to the old Hercules Mine on Mt Read. Theproposed South Hercules mine is located at the southern end of the disturbance created by the HerculesMine Site, southeast of Rosebery.

The current proposal (Phase 1) is to mine an 18,000 tonne open pit to win ore for large scalemetallurgical testing and also to expose the structure of the resource to allow refinement of thegeological and geochemical model.

Subsequent Phases (2 & 3) of mining may include an expansion of the open cut and underground miningdepending the success of Phase 1. This survey has covered the full area that may be impacted bysubsequent phases, but impact and mitigation measures focus on phase 1 only.

The proposal is to establish the South Hercules mine and undertake road rehabilitation and upgrade ofthe Mt Read road. Further road rehabilitation will be required to upgrade the resource access road andpart of this road will be diverted so as to avoid potential disturbance of a threatened vegetation typeAthrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest. A stockpile area has been proposed at thejunction of the access road and Mount Read road where ore will be transferred form 4WD haul trucksinto road trucks. Ore processing is to be undertaken at the existing MMG Rosebery mill.

This botanical survey and fauna habitat assessment forms part of the environmental assessmentsrequired to obtain approval for this project.

1.2 Purpose of the StudyThe purpose of this study was to:

» Describe the flora and fauna of the study area;

» Identify threatened ecological values within the study area;

» Evaluate the proposed mine and associated road upgrades and construction against relevant floraand fauna government legislation and policy;

» Outline potential impacts of the proposed mine and roads on ecological values;

» Outline mitigation measures to minimise potential impacts; and

» Provide recommendations on permits or processes required.

1.3 Study AreaThe proposed mine site is approximately 500 m to the south of the old Hercules Mine, west of Rosebery(see Figure 1). It includes some currently regenerating areas, previously used as part of the HerculesMine operations. The study area also includes the existing Mt Read Road and a proposed new 4WDhaulage road and stockpile area (refer to Figure 1). The study area ranges from lowland to alpine alongthe Mt Read Road.


2. Methodology

2.1 Background ResearchThe primary data sources accessed during the background research include:

» Natural Values Atlas1 a natural values report that identifies threatened fauna and flora records within500 m and 5000 m of the centre of the study area. It also identifies the wilderness values of the areaand any known geoconservation areas within 1000 m;

» The Threatened Fauna Manual2, which was consulted for threatened species recorded from theRosebery map sheet (Tasmap 3637, Tasmania 1:25,000 series);

» The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (EPBCA) ‘Protected Matters Search Tool3’,which identifies any matters listed under the EPBCA within a 5 km buffer around the study area;

» The List information database provides information on the location of vegetation communitiesaccording to the TASVEG 2005 mapping data and the location of threatened nonforest vegetation;and

» WorleyParsons Komex (2007), Zinifex Rosebery Mine Flora and Fauna Survey4.

2.2 Field AssessmentA botanical survey and fauna habitat assessment of the proposed mine site was conducted on 0306March 2009 by a GHD Senior Botanist and Zoologist.

The study area was surveyed on foot, noting and collecting plant species for identification as needed. Allspecies observed were recorded along with fauna habitat values, native vegetation communities andweed infestations.

An additional survey for understanding the local range of Orites milliganii was undertaken by a GHDecologist on the 2nd of June, 2009. Areas near to known populations of Orites milliganii and outside of thedevelopment footprint were surveyed for additional stronghold sites of this species.

2.3 Nomenclature and Assessment of SignificanceAll plants were identified in accordance with “A Census of Vascular Plants of Tasmania” (Buchanan2008). Flora and fauna conservation significance was determined in accordance with the TasmanianThreatened Species Protection Act 1995 (TSPA) and the Commonwealth Environment Protection andBiodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBCA).

Conservation significance of vegetation communities was assessed in accordance with the TASVEG2004 and Regional Forestry Agreement (RFA) classification and associated criteria.

1 Biodiversity Conservation Branch, DPIW2 Bryant & Jackson, 19993 Commonwealth Government, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, www.environment.gov.au4 WorleyParsons Komex, 2007

http://www.environment.gov.au


3. Biological Values

3.1 Flora SpeciesA total of 155 native and 10 introduced species were recorded during the site assessment (see AppendixA). Two of these species are threatened in Tasmania, as outlined in Section 3.1.2.

3.1.1 Potential threatened flora identified by desktop research

The Natural Values Report produced using the Natural Values Atlas5 and the study conducted byWorleyParsons Komex (2007) revealed that two threatened plant species listed under the TSPA havepreviously been recorded in or within 500 metres of the study area. A number of other flora specieslisted under the TSPA and the EPBCA have been recorded or could potentially occur within 5 km of thestudy area. These species and their likelihood of occurrence are listed in Table 1.

Habitat descriptions for species below are sourced from the Threatened Flora of Tasmania Note Sheets(DPIW) and Jones et al. 1999.

Table 1 Threatened flora previously recorded within 500m or 5 km of the study area

Species Tasmanian TSPAStatus

Commonwealth EPBCAct Status

Likelihood of occurrence instudy area

Corunastylis nuda

Tiny midgeorchid

Rare Not listed Occurs in scrub, subalpinegrassland and heathy openeucalypt forest, usually onsandy soils and clay loams –Unlikely, lack of suitablehabitat.

Orites milliganii

Toothed orites

Rare Not listed Occurs as a component ofalpine, coniferous and deciduousheath on some of the far westernmountains –Present. Recordedduring current survey.

Orthoceras strictum

Horned orchid

Rare Not listed Uncommon and localised incoastal and near coastal areas.Occurs in buttongrass moorland,scrubby heathland, sedgyeucalypt shrubland and openforest – Unlikely, lack ofsuitable habitat.

Planocarpa sulcata

Grooved cheeseberry

Rare Not listed Found in exposed alpine,coniferous and deciduous heathon shallow soils in westernmountains, above 950m altitude–Present. Recorded duringcurrent survey.

Pterostylis ziegeleri

Grassland greenhood

Vulnerable Endangered Known from lowland coastalregions and in the Midlands to300m altitude. Found on sanddunes, and in native grassland orgrassy woodland –Unlikely,outside of known range and

5 Biodiversity Conservation Branch, DPIW, accessed 21 April 2009


lack of suitable habitat.

Note: Likelihood of occurrence is assessed on a 3tier scale:

1. Present (individuals previously recorded or detected during current survey within study site)

2. Possible (suitable habitat occurs or may occur within the study site)

3. Unlikely (suitable habitat unlikely to occur within the study site; or suitable habitat potentially present but species notrecorded within 5 km of the site and suitable habitat substantially modified)

3.1.2 Threatened flora recorded within the study area

Two threatened plant species were recorded during this survey (including 2nd site visit to determine theextent of the local population):

» Planocarpa sulcata (grooved cheeseberry), 801 individuals recorded; and

» Orites milliganii (toothed orites), 867 individuals recorded.

Both of the above species are listed as Rare under the State TSPA and are not listed under the FederalEPBCA. They were recorded in high numbers at various locations within the alpine zone of the studyarea, as indicated in Figure 1. It is noted that Figure 1 indicates the location of populations only, anddoes not illustrate the number of individuals at each site. A list of the coordinates for these records andthe number of individuals at each site can be found in Appendix B.

It should be noted that the original site survey focused on the proposed development footprint, andthreatened flora surveys were not conducted over the entire study area. The follow up survey wascompleted to gain a contextual understanding of broader populations of orites milliganii. Hence thissecond assessment focused on possible stronghold areas to identify key populations, but also did notcover the entire area. In this regard it is possible, and likely, that further individuals of these twothreatened species may occur in the broader study area, outside of the development footprint.

The study area was assessed in early autumn, which is generally a suitable time for conducting florasurveys for the vegetation types recorded. It is considered unlikely that any threatened species wouldhave been overlooked. As such, a spring survey is unlikely to be required.


Plate 1 Planocarpa sulcata (grooved cheeseberry), listed as Rare under the TSPA

Plate 2 Orites millganii (toothed orites), also listed as Rare under the TSPA

3.2 Introduced PlantsThe study site is dominated by native plant species, however a small number of introduced species arepresent. One declared weed, Ulex europaeus (gorse), was recorded beside the Mt Read access road(E377967 N5371657, GDA 94). This weed is listed under the Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999.


Also of particular weed concern is the introduced heath rush, Juncus squarrosus which is widespread inthe alpine area of the study site. Although this is not a declared weed it is recommended this species iseither controlled and/or removed as part of the ongoing management of the site.

MMG currently undertakes weed eradication within their lease, and it is recommended this be employedon Mt Read Road, in particular for the declared weed listed above. The study area includes sensitivealpine environment with a high number of Tasmanian endemic species. Prevention of weed introductionand/or spread should be a priority in the management of this area.

Plate 3 The invasive heath rush, Juncus squarrosus, in foreground of photo, near the oldHercules Mine site

3.3 Vegetation Communities and ConditionThe field assessment identified 15 vegetation types within the study area, one of which is a threatenedvegetation community.

Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest (RKF) is listed as threatened under theTasmanian Nature Conservation Act 2002. Further information about this community is provided below.

The vegetation within the study area is predominantly native communities, with floristic compositionvarying markedly with altitude, aspect and drainage. The proposed mine site is within high quality alpinevegetation, while the Mt Read Road leading to this site passes through a diverse range of nativecommunities as it passes from low altitude to alpine sites. Very few introduced species were recorded.

The vegetation communities are described below as defined by the document, From Forest toFjaeldmark, Descriptions of Tasmania’s Vegetation (2005), along with their locations within the studyarea (refer Figure 1).


Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest (RKF) Threatened

This is a threatened vegetation community, listed under the Nature Conservation Act 2002. It is presenton protected slopes and drainage lines near the old Hercules Mine disturbance area and along the 4WDaccess road.

This community is dominated by Nothofagus gunnii <5m tall, with emergent Athrotaxis selaginoides andthe hybrid taxa, Athrotaxis Xlaxifolia, also present.

Plate 4 Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest (RKF) is a threatenedcommunity.

Buttongrass moorland with emergent shrubs (MBS)

Buttongrass moorland occurs along a relatively short section of Mt Read Road, and is dominated byGymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus, with emergent shrubs of Leptospermum scoparium, Leptospermumnitidum and occasional Eucalyptus nitida present.


Plate 5 Buttongrass moorland with emergent shrubs (MBS) along Mt Read Road withRosebery in the background.

Eucalyptus delegatensis wet forest (undifferentiated) (WDU)

This community contains E. delegatensis up to 15m in height, over a dense midstorey of Nematolepissquamea, Nothofagus cunninghamii, Acacia mucronata and Leptospermum nitidum. Understoreyspecies include Blechnum wattsii and occasional Gahnia grandis.

Eucalyptus nitida forest over Leptospermum (WNL)

This native vegetation community contains an overstorey of Eucalyptus nitida up to 25m in height, withoccasional Eucalyptus obliqua also present. Understorey species include Leptospermum scoparium,Pomaderris apetala, Bauera rubioides, Acacia mucronata and Prostanthera lasianthos. Ground coverspecies include Blechnum wattsii, particularly on more protected slopes.

This community was present at the start of Mt Read Road, at the lowest altitude of the study area(approximately 300m asl).


Plate 6 Eucalyptus nitida forest over Leptospermum (WNL) on low altitude slopes near thestart of Mt Read Road

Eucalyptus obliqua wet forest (WOU)

This community is present along Mt Read Road. The canopy is dominated by E. obliqua up to 30m highover an understorey of Pomaderris apetala, Nematolepis squamea, Leptospermum scoparium and aground cover of Blechnum wattsii.

Extraurban miscellaneous (FUM)

These areas of miscellaneous disturbance represent bare ground associated with human activities on MtRead, such as tracks, roads and turning bays.

Highland low rainforest and scrub (RSH)

This vegetation mapping unit is regrowth rainforest. It is present along small sections of the Mt ReadRoad and at the site of the old Hercules Mine. Along Mt Read Road the overstorey is dominated byNothofagus cunninghamii to a height of 1215m, with occasional Richea pandanifolia and Athrotaxisselaginoides. The understorey is depauperate, with dense leaf litter and occasional Polystichumproliferum and Gahnia grandis. Senecio linearifolius is also present, colonising the sides of the road.

At the Hercules mine site, the overstorey is dominated by Nothofagus cunninghamii up to 4m in height,while other species present include Richea pandanifolia, Histiopteris incisa, Trochocarpa cunninghamiiand Trochocarpa gunnii. The understorey is depauperate.

Highland rainforest scrub with dead Athrotaxis selaginoides (RKX)


Within the study area this community occurs at higher altitudes, and is characterised by the presence ofdead Athrotaxis selaginoides trees (stags). These stags are a result of fire that has previously passedthrough the area. Also present are Leptospermum nitidum (<2m tall), Bauera rubioides, Empodismaminus and Astelia alpina. Other species occasionally present are Diselma archeri, Gahnia grandis,Richea scoparia and Richea pandanifolia.

Plate 7 Highland rainforest scrub with dead Athrotaxis selaginoides (RKX) near the summitof Mt Read

Leptospermum scopariumAcacia mucronata forest (NLA)

This native scrub community is dominated by Leptospermum scoparium and Acacia mucronata up to aheight of 8m, over Bauera rubioides and Gahnia grandis. Occasional emergent E. nitida are alsopresent. In general the understorey is depauperate, however in protected areas rainforest species suchas Nothofagus cunninghamii may be present.

NothofagusPhyllocladus short rainforest (RMS)

This rainforest community is dominated by Nothofagus cunninghamii, Eucryphia lucida and Phyllocladusaspleniifolius to a height of approximately 12m. The dense understorey contains Anodopetalumbiglandulosum and Trochocarpa cunninghamii. Occasional seedlings of Athrotaxis selaginoides are alsopresent.


Plate 8 NothofagusPhyllocladus short rainforest (RMS) on Mt Read Road

Permanent easement (FPE)

This vegetation mapping unit encompasses permanent easements derived from recurrent disturbanceevents (e.g. slashing) associated with linear infrastructure such as powerlines, railways, highways andpipelines. Regularly slashed areas such as firebreaks are also included within this mapping unit.

Owing to the regular slashing regime, trees are usually absent from this vegetation type. Vegetationcommunities within this mapping unit are sometimes species diverse, owing to the regular disturbanceand high light levels reaching the ground layer. In addition, the regular disturbance facilitates theoccurrence of disturbance dependent/tolerant threatened species such as the lilies, orchids and grasses.

Within the study area this mapping unit is present along a small section of Mt Read Road, where powerlines run adjacent to the road. Regrowth/emergent Leptospermum scoparium is present to a height of 34m, while the easement also contains Gahnia grandis, Bauera rubioides, Acacia mucronata and areas ofbare ground. These areas should be used for road widening where possible to minimise clearance ofintact native vegetation.


Plate 9 Permanent easement (FPE) along Mt Read Road.

Regenerating cleared land (FRG)

At the old Hercules mine site, recolonisation by native species is evident. Common species includeLeptospermum scoparium and L. nitidum, as well as Bauera rubioides, Juncus sp., and various mosses.


Plate 10 Regenerating cleared land (FRG) at the old Hercules Mine site.

Western alpine sedgeland/herbland (HSW)

This community is present within the proposed route of a new fourwheel drive haul road. The canopy isdominated by Leptospermum nitidum <2m in height, over a sedgy ground cover of Carpha curvata,Empodisma minus, Sprengelia incarnata and Gleichenia dicarpa. Other species occasionally presentare Gahnia grandis and Persoonia gunnii.

Western alpine heathland (HHW)

This alpine community occurs on stony, shallow soils, near the old Hercules mine site. It is dominated byLeptospermum nitidum but often includes shrubs such as Persoonia gunnii, Orites diversifolia,Anodopetalum biglandulosum and Planocarpa sulcata. Other species often present include Agastachysodorata, Leptecophylla juniperina subsp. juniperina and Blandfordia punicea.

Water, sea (OAQ)

This mapping unit encompasses areas of fresh or saline water. Within the study area it includes smalldams and ponds of freshwater.

Plate 11 A small dam (OAQ) within the study area, near the old Hercules Mine.

HHW

RKF

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© 2009. While GHD has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, GHD and DATA SUPPLIER(S) make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose.GHD and DATA SUPPLIER(S) cannot accept liability of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred as aresult of the product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason.

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0 200 400 600 800100

MetresMap Projection: Transverse Mercator

Horizontal Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia (GDA)Grid: Map Grid of Australia 1994, Zone 55

oMMG RoseberyProposed South Hercules Mine

Figure 1

Job NumberRevision F

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Vegetation Communities& Threatened Species

Date

Data source: from 'theLIST' & GHD field survey. Created by: I Balzer

2 Salamanca Square Hobart TAS 7000 Australia T 61 3 6210 0600 F 61 3 6210 0601 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au

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South Hercules Access PlanHaul Road Route (New)Haul Road Route (Upgrade)Mount Read Road (Upgrade)Boundary Of Mining Lease 28M/1993

Lake Johnson Nature ReserveMount Dundas Regional Reserve

South Hercules Site LocationsETPAmenitiesOpen Cut Mine (Extents)NAF Borrow Pit LocationOre Transfer Pad

Flora Locations

#* Gorse (Introduced Woody Weed)

!( Orites milliganii (Rare & Tasmania Endemic - Points)

") Planocarpa sulcata (Rare & Tasmania Endemic - Points)

Orites milliganii (Rare & Tasmania Endemic - Areas)Planocarpa sulcata (Rare & Tasmania Endemic - Areas)

Vegetation (Using TASVEG Key Mappings)Wet Eucalypt forest and woodland

WDU Eucalyptus delegatensis wet forest (undifferentiated)WOU Eucalyptus obliqua wet forest (undifferentiated)WNL Eucalyptus nitida forest over Leptospermum

Rainforest and related scrubRKF Athrotaxis selaginoides - Nothofagus gunnii short rainforest (Threatened)RKX Highland rainforest scrub with dead Athrotaxis selaginoides

RMS Nothofagus / Phyllocladus short rainforestRSH Highland low rainforest and scrub

Non-Eucalypt Forest and WoodlandNLA Leptospermum scoparium-Acacia mucronata forest

Highland treeless vegetationHSW Western alpine sedgeland/herblandHHW Western alpine heathland

Moorland, Sedgeland, Rushland and PeatlandMBS Buttongrass moorland with emergent shrubs

Agricultural, Urban and Exotic VegetationFRG Regenerating cleared landFPE Permanent easementsFUM Extra-urban miscellaneous

Other Natural EnvironmentsOAQ Water, sea Area

$+ OAQ (Water, sea) Point Location

Open Cut Mine (Extents)

NAF Borrow Pit Location

HHW

RKX

FUM

RSH

OAQ

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3.4 Fauna Habitat Values

3.4.1 Potential threatened fauna identified by desktop research

A number of threatened fauna species are predicted to occur within 500m of the study area6 and havebeen recorded and/or are predicted to occur within 5km of the site78. These species (except listed marine species) and their likelihood for occurrence within the study site are shown in Table 2.

Table 2 Threatened fauna predicted to occur within 500m and/or 5km of the study area

Species TasmanianTSPA Status

CommonwealthEPBC Act Status

Likelihood of occurrence in study area

Mammals

Dasyurus maculatus maculatusSpottedtailed quoll

Rare Vulnerable Forest dwelling species, most abundant in areas ofhigh rainfall containing rainforest, wet forest andblackwood swamp forest –May occur, somepotential habitat, and previously recordedwithin 5 km of the site.

Sarcophilus harrisiiTasmanian devil

Endangered Endangered Occur in various habitats, including coastal heath,open dry sclerophyll forest and mixed sclerophyllrainforest –May occur, some potential habitat,and previously recorded within 5 km of the site.

Birds

Accipiter novaehollandiae

Grey goshawk

Endangered Not listed Wet forest including rainforest, mixed forest andblackwood swamps, especially those with oldgrowth trees. Nest sites tend to be along or nearwatercourses –Possible, however there is a lackof preferred blackwood habitat within the studyarea.

Alcedo azurea diemensis

Azure kingfisher

Endangered Not listed Occurs in western Tasmania in moderate to highrainfall areas. Habitat includes treelined rivers,creeks, lakes, ponds and wetlands with densestreamside vegetation –Unlikely, lack of suitablehabitat.

Apus pacificus

Forktailed swift

Not listed Migratory Habitat is varied, possible tendency to more aridareas, also over coastal and urban areas9–Mayoverfly the study area, however does not breedin the southern hemisphere.

Aquila audax fleayiWedgetailed eagle

Endangered Endangered Most common in areas with mosaic of forest,farmland, grassland, wetlands and rivers. Nest inold growth trees in native forest, well away fromdisturbance –Possible, may overfly and/orforage within study area. Unlikely to nest due tolack of suitably sized nesting trees.

Ardea alba

Great egret

Not listed Migratory Occurs in floodwaters, rivers, shallows of wetlands,intertidal mudflats –Unlikely to occur, lack of

6 Natural Values Atlas, Biodiversity Conservation Branch, DPIW, accessed 21 April 2009.7 EPBC ‘Protected Matters Search Tool’ Commonwealth Government, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the

Arts, www.environment.gov.au8 Bryant & Jackson, 1999, Threatened Fauna Manual, Rosebery Map Sheet (TASMAP 3637)9 Simpson and Day, 2004, Field Guide to the Birds of Australia

http://www.environment.gov.au


suitable habitat.

Ardea ibis

Cattle egret

Not listed Migratory Commonly found in pastureland and the shallowsof freshwater wetlands –Unlikely to occur, lack ofsuitable habitat.

Gallinago hardwickiiLatham’s (Japanese) snipe

Not listed Migratory Occurs in fresh wetlands and saltmarsh – Unlikelyto occur, lack of suitable habitat.

Lathamus discolourSwift parrot

Endangered Endangered Feed on E.ovata and E.globulus, predominantlyalong the east coast, within 5km of the coast –Unlikely to occur, lack of suitable habitat andoutside of known range.

Haliaeetus leucogasterWhitebellied seaeagle

Vulnerable Migratory Nest and forage near the coast, occasional movingto large inland lakes and rivers on a seasonal basis–Possible, may overfly the site. Unlikely to nestdue to lack of suitable nesting habitat.

Hirundapus caudacutusWhitethroated needletail

Not listed Migratory Usually over forested coastal and mountainregions, also farmlands and orchards –Mayoverfly the area, and/or roost in the forestwithin the study site.

Tyto novaehollandiae subsp.castanops

Masked owl (Tasmanian)

Endangered Not listed Usually found in lowland dry sclerophyll forest,however can occur in wet sclerophyll forest, noneucalypt dominated forest, scrub and urbanenvironments –Possible, some potentialforaging habitat at lower altitudes, unlikely tonest due to a lack of suitably sized treehollows.

Fish

Prototroctes maraenaAustralian grayling

Vulnerable Vulnerable Middle and lower reaches of rivers and streams –Unlikely to occur, lack of suitable habitat inproximity to coastal waterways.

3.4.2 Fauna habitat recorded within the study area

General Habitat Values

The study area contains a large range of fauna habitat, due to the great range of altitude within the studyarea. Along Mt Read Rd there is eucalypt forest at the lower altitudes, grading into buttongrassmoorland, then rainforest, and finally alpine sedgeland/heathland toward the summit of Mt Read. Theproposed site of the mine and associated 4WD haul road, is within alpine vegetation.

The wet eucalypt forest, rainforest and scrub provides potential habitat for large and small mammals.Some direct physical evidence of mammals was observed at the study site, including scats of wallabiesand wombats. At lower altitudes, the study area provides some suitable habitat for animals such asdevils and quolls. The thick, wet understorey of the eucalypt forest provides good shelter for mammals.There were some small hollow bearing trees within the study area, which provide potential nestsites/hollows for small arboreal mammals and birds.

The study site provides good quality bird habitat, with the blue wren and sulphurcrested cockatoo seenin the area. The absence of large, hollow bearing trees suitable for nesting provides little potential forlarge birds, such as eagles and owls, to use the site for nesting.

The site provides some potential amphibian habitat, in drainage lines and small dams/ponds associatedwith the old Hercules Mine and Mt Read Road. The common froglet (Crinia signifera) and smooth frog(Geocrinia laevis) were both heard calling during the field assessment. There is no potential habitat for


fish species such as the Australian grayling (Prototroctes maraena) due to the absence of rivers andcreeks flowing to the coast.

The site provides some habitat for burrowing crayfish. There are burrowing crayfish holes present inpoorly drained areas in the alpine sedgeland (on lower slopes and flats) and also along the proposed4WD haul road route. It is noted however that these are likely to be a common species of burrowingcrayfish, as there are no known records of threatened burrowing crayfish species in the Rosebery region.

There is some reptile habitat within the site, particularly at high altitude where the exposed alpine habitatnear the summit of Mt Read, in open rocky areas, provides good basking habitat. Alpine species ofskinks may occur in these areas.

Threatened Fauna Habitat

During the field assessment no direct evidence was found of the presence of threatened fauna speciesidentified in Table 2.

The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) and spottedtailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus maculatus) mayoccur within the study area. The spottedtailed quoll is listed as Rare under the TSPA and Vulnerableunder the EPBCA, while the Tasmanian devil is listed as Endangered under the TSPA and EPBCA. Theeucalypt and rainforest at lower altitudes of Mt Read Road provide potential denning and foraging habitatfor both of these species.

The grey goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae) is listed as Endangered under the TSPA and prefers wetforest for nesting, generally along watercourses and preferring Acacia melanoxlyon (blackwoods). Thestudy site contains only minor watercourses such as small creeks and contains limited blackwood trees.It is possible the grey goshawk may utilise parts of the site for nesting and/or foraging, however it is notconsidered to be prime habitat for this species.

The wedgetailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) (listed as Endangered under both the TSPA and theEPBCA) and whitebellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) (listed as Vulnerable under the TSPA andMigratory under the EPBCA) are predicted to occur within 500m of the site. The site does not containtrees of a suitable size for nesting, however it is possible these species may overfly and forage within thestudy area. It is noted that a search of the Natural Values Atlas, using the observations tool, wasconducted to search for records of eagle nests within a 5km radius of the study site. This searchrevealed there are no nest records within 5km of the site.

The masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. castanops) may utilise parts of the site for foraging, andthere are some hollow bearing trees within the site, however these do not provide hollows of a suitablesize for masked owl nest sites.

The whitethroated needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) is an EPBC listed migratory species, which mayoverfly the area, and/or roost within the site. This species does not breed in the Southern Hemisphere,however it seasonally utilises forests in mountainous and coastal regions for feeding and roosting.

Other species identified in Table 2 are considered unlikely to occur due to lack of suitable habitat. Thisincludes a lack of suitable watercourses, and the absence of Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus ovata.

3.5 Plant PathogensThe plant pathogen commonly known as dieback or rootrot fungus, Phytophthora cinnamomi, is a soilborne fungal pathogen that invades the roots of plants and starves them of nutrients and water. Heathcommunities are the most susceptible to infection due to their location in areas of low nutrient soils, high


rainfall (above 600 mm per annum) and altitude (below 800 m). These conditions are conducive to thegrowth and spread of the pathogen with subsequent loss of species abundance and diversity. Themovement of soil on vehicles, construction machinery and walking boots generally spreads thepathogen. The pathogen is distributed extensively on the west coast of Tasmania, however no directevidence of P. cinnamomi was observed at the study site.

Myrtle wilt is a plant disease that results in the death of Nothofagus cunninghamii, the dominant treespecies in many rainforest communities. The disease is caused by the fungus Chalara australis andactivities such as logging, thinning and roading of myrtle dominated rainforest can lead to the introductionand/or spread of the disease (Resource Planning and Development Commission, 2003). No directevidence of myrtle wilt was found at the study site.

It is noted that MMG already has in place vehicle washdown facilities and automatic tyre washes formachinery and vehicles working at their Rosebery site. If this control is also utilised during the proposedworks in the south Hercules area, along with ensuring any material brought onto the site is clean fill,these measures are considered sufficient to minimise the potential for further weed spread or invasion asa result of the proposed works.


4. Potential Impacts and ManagementRecommendations

A number of direct and indirect impacts may occur as a result of the proposed mining works, whichinclude:

» Upgrade and installation of passing bays on the existing Mt Read Rd;

» Construction of a new 4WD haul road to link the mine site to Mt Read Rd and to avoid impactingknown areas of threatened King Billy forest (Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii shortrainforest);

» Establishment of an open cut pit; and

» Establishment of a stockpile area for transfer of material from the 4WD trucks to 2WD trucks that willtransport material down Mt Read Rd to the processing facility at Rosebery.

The following section outlines proposed mitigation measures, and overall project recommendations, inorder to manage these impacts.

4.1 Native VegetationDuring the field assessment, 15 vegetation mapping units were recorded, 12 of which are nativevegetation communities, and one of which is listed as threatened under the Nature Conservation Act2002. Most of the vegetation communities within the study area are of high quality, with little or no weedinvasion. The alpine area around Mt. Read presently includes disturbed areas due to the old workings ofthe Hercules Mine Site.

4.1.1 Potential impacts

The design of the proposed haul road has been constructed to largely avoid the threatened vegetationcommunity Athrotaxis selaginoidesNothofagus gunnii short rainforest (RKF). However, the proposed4WD haul road crosses a small creek which is surrounded by the threatened vegetation community,RKF, and construction of the haul road over this creek may impact on the threatened vegetationsurrounding it.

Other areas of nonthreatened native vegetation, including alpine heathland, rainforest and eucalyptforest, will be impacted to some degree through establishment of the open cut pit, upgrading of the MtRead Rd, and construction of the 4WD haul road, however the overall extent of clearance is minimal.

4.1.2 Recommendations

The following recommendations and approvals apply:

» Approval from the FPA in the form of a Forest Practices Plan or salvage plan is likely to be requiredfor a number of reasons, including:

o Impacts to a listed threatened community;

o Possible clearance of >1ha of forest vegetation;

o Clearance of habitat of threatened species; and


o Clearance of vegetation adjacent to a waterway.

» Where the proposed 4WD haul road crosses a small creek surrounded by RKF, it is recommendedthat a bridge is built over the creek, rather than a culvert, as this will minimise the impacts to thethreatened vegetation community that grows along the creek.

» Concentrate track widening activities in areas of cleared vegetation and/or leptospermum scrubwhere possible.

» Avoid the storage of materials and machinery in areas of native vegetation. Utilise the existing tracksand cleared areas; and

» Minimise the clearance of native vegetation to the area absolutely necessary for the purposes of theproposed works.

4.2 Threatened Flora


Two threatened plant species were located within the study area, Planocarpa sulcata (groovedcheeseberry) and Orites milliganii (toothed orites). Both of these species are listed as Rare under theTasmanian TSPA and are not listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act1999.

The proposed haul road and mine development have the potential to impact up to a maximum of 401individuals of Planocarpa sulcata and 167 Orites milliganii. Current planning for the mine hasendeavoured to minimise impacts to these species through measures such as careful planning ofinfrastructure locations (site offices and facilities etc.). In particular, a stronghold area (approximately400 individuals) of Planocarpa sulcata (on the ridgeline behind the open cut pit location) will be retainedand protected from disturbance. In addition two nearby areas of Orites milliganii, with populationstotalling approximately 700 individuals will be avoided during the proposed work (refer Areas 2 and 3 inFigure 1).


Where possible it is recommended that the proposed works be designed to avoid these threatenedspecies. Where this is not possible, an application for a ‘permit to take’ should be lodged with theConservation Assessment Branch of the Department of Primary Industries and Water regarding the lossof these individuals.

It is also recommended that the strong hold areas of Orites milliganii and Planocarpa sulcata outside thefootprint be marked on MMG maps (as well as the Natural Values Atlas) and protected from futureimpacts associated with the mine development.

4.3 Fauna HabitatNo evidence of the threatened fauna species identified in Table 2 was observed during the fieldassessment, however the area provides potential habitat for a number of threatened fauna species.



The areas of eucalypt forest and rainforest along the lower parts of the Mt. Read road provide goodquality habitat for the Tasmanian devil and the spotted tailed quoll. It is anticipated that the impacts tothis area will be limited as the clearing required for the upgrading (resealing) of the road and constructionof passing bays is anticipated to be minimal.

The grey goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae), wedgetailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi), whitebelliedsea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae subsp. castanops), and whitethroated needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) are all species which may occur within the study area.However the study site does not provide suitable nesting habitat for eagles and owls, and there is limitedsuitable habitat for the kingfisher, grey goshawk and whitethroated needletail. Considering the size ofvegetation clearance proposed within the potential habitat areas for these species it is unlikely thisproject will have a measurable impact on significant habitat.


As mentioned in section 4.1.2, approval may be required from the Forest Practices Authority regardingthe clearing of any threatened fauna habitat. This will include clearance for the upgrading of Mt. Readroad (construction of passing bays).

Further approvals under the Tasmanian TSPA or Federal EPBCA for impacts to threatened faunaspecies are not likely to be required for this project, as the majority of vegetation clearance will be in thealpine zone of Mt Read, which is unlikely to provide core habitat for the fauna species listed above. Inaddition the small scale of vegetation clearance proposed is unlikely to have a measureable effect onthese species.

4.4 Introduced Plants, Pests and PathogensThe study area is dominated by native species, however some introduced species were located duringthe field assessment. One introduced species present on site, Ulex europaeus (gorse), is a declaredweed under the Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999 and was recorded as an isolated occurrenceon the lower altitude slopes of Mt Read Road.


Gorse is a declared weed in Tasmania under the Weed Management Act 1999. It has the potential to outcompete native vegetation and form dense monospecific stands.

No evidence of P. cinnamomi was observed during the field assessment. Although the high altitude sitesof the study area are in the lower risk category, the lower altitude vegetation communities may bevulnerable to P. cinnamomi.

No evidence of Chalara australis was observed during the field assessment, however the vegetationcommunities within the study area are vulnerable to this fungus.


Land managers have an obligation under the Weed Management Act 1999 to remove declared weeds. Itis also an offence to knowingly spread declared weeds.


In order to control weeds and prevent the spread of other exotic plant species and plant pathogens, thefollowing recommendations are made:

» Remove the known occurrence of gorse (refer Section 3.2) from Mt Read Road prior to constructionand monitor this site to check the species does not reestablish in this area;

» Detailed weed control measures should be included in a Construction Environmental ManagementPlan. In general, machinery should be cleaned of large clods of dirt and vegetative material beforemoving from an existing works area to a new works zone; and

» Any material bought on site should be clean fill to ensure that no other weed species or plantpathogens are inadvertently bought onto the site.

If these recommendations are followed, it is anticipated that MMG obligations under the WeedManagement Act 1999 will be fulfilled.


5. Limitations

This ecological investigation report of the proposed South Hercules Mine at Mt Read:

(a) Has been prepared pursuant to a contract with MMG;

(b) Has been prepared based on information provided up to 24 August 2009;

(c) Is for the sole use of MMG for the sole purpose of understanding the ecologicalattributes applicable to the site;

(d) Must not be used (1) by any other person/entity other than MMG or (2) for a purposeother than for understanding the ecological attributes applicable to the site; and

(e) Must not be copied without the prior written permission of GHD.

Neither GHD, its servants, employees or officers accepts responsibility for any person/entity other thanMMG in connection with this document. GHD has prepared the report on the basis of informationprovided by MMG and provided by people identified in the acknowledgements and consultation sectionsof this report, which GHD has not independently verified or checked.

This ecological assessment covers vascular plant species (ferns, conifers and flowering plants)freshwater, terrestrial and migratory vertebrate fauna and listed crustacean habitat.

Nonvascular flora (e.g. mosses, liverworts, lichens, fungi), and invertebrate habitat, with the exception oflisted crustaceans, were not surveyed as part of this assessment, and are not commonly requiredassessments for developments within Tasmania.

The study area was assessed in early March and it is considered unlikely that threatened species wouldhave been overlooked due to the appropriate timing of the survey and also due to the types of habitatrecorded. Another limitation of the study is that the survey was an isolated event, which can notguarantee that all vascular plants were recorded due to the limitations of the sampling technique,seasonal and annual variation in abundance (e.g. seasonal dormancy in some orchids, lilies and annualspecies), and the absence of fertile material for identification.

Some specimens were only identified to genus level due to insufficient material for identification.

No detailed fauna field survey was undertaken (i.e. trapping, spotlighting) at the study area. The faunainvestigation instead focused on fauna habitat, and evidence of animals (e.g. scats, tracks, feathers).


References

Australian Government, Department of Environment and Heritage (2006). EPBC Act Policy Statement2001, Significant Impact Guidelines, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra.

Bryant, S. & Jackson, J. (1999). Tasmania’s Threatened Fauna Handbook: what, where and how toprotect. Threatened Species Unit, Parks & Wildlife, Hobart.

Buchanan, A.M. (2008). A Census of the Vascular Plants of Tasmania & Index to The Student’s Flora ofTasmania. Web Edition. Tasmanian Herbarium Occasional Publication No. 6, Hobart.

Curtis W.M and Morris D.I (1993). The Students Flora of Tasmania – Part 1, Gymnospermae,Angiospermae: Ranunculaceae to Myrtaceae, 2nd Edition, St David’s Park Publishing, Hobart,Tasmania.

Curtis W.M and Morris D.I (1994). The Students Flora of Tasmania – Part 4B, Angiospermae:Alismataceae to Burmanniaceae, St David’s Park Publishing, Hobart, Tasmania.

Curtis W.M. (1963). The Students Flora of Tasmania – Part 2, Angiospermae: Lythraceae toEpacridaceae, St David’s Park Publishing, Hobart, Tasmania.

Curtis W.M. (1967). The Students Flora of Tasmania – Part 3, Angiospermae: Plumbaginaceae toSalincaceae, St David’s Park Publishing, Hobart, Tasmania.

Harris S and Kitchener A (2005). From Forest to Fjaeldmark Descriptions of Tasmania’s Vegetation,Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment, Tasmania.

Jones, D., Wapstra, H., Tonelli, P. and Harris, S. (1999). The Orchids of Tasmania, Melbourne UniversityPress, Victoria.

Resource Planning and Development Commission (2003). State of the Environment Tasmania 2003, lastmodified 14 December 2006, http//www.rpdc.tas.gov.au/soer, accessed 11 July 2008.

Simpson, K. and Day, N. (2004). Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, seventh edition, Penguin Group,Australia.

WorleyParsons Komex (2007). Zinifex Rosebery Mine Flora and Fauna Survey, Hobart, Tasmania.


Appendix A

Flora Species List


Job Number: 32 1462507

Site: South Hercules, Mt Read, western Tasmania

Surveyed By: John Davies, Senior Botanist, GHD Hobart and Willow McMinn, Zoologist, GHD Hobart

Date of Survey: 03 – 06 March 2009

Grid Reference: E 376825 N 5365699

DPIW Permit to take threatened plants for scientific purposes: TFL08109

Expiry Date: 01/07/2009

Vascular Flora Recorded Within the Study Area (Mt Read Western Tasmania)

Key

e endemic to Tasmania

i introduced

R Rare (Tasmanian TSPA)

D declared weed (Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999)

t Within Australia only present in TasmaniaSpecies name Common name

Indigenous Species

Acacia dealbata subsp. dealbata silver wattle

Acacia melanoxylon blackwood

Acacia mucronata caterpillar wattle

Acacia verticillata subsp. verticillata prickly moses

Acaena novaezelandiae common buzzy

e Actinotus moorei splitleaf flannelflower

e Agastachys odorata fragrant candlebush

Agrostis parviflora smallflower bent

e Allocasuarina monilifera necklace sheoak

e Androstoma verticillata clustered beardheath

e Anemone crassifolia mountain anemone

e Anodopetalum biglandulosum horizontal

e Anopterus glandulosus native laurel

e Archeria hirtella smooth rainforestheath

e Astelia alpina var. alpina pineapple grass


Species name Common name

Atherosperma moschatum sassafras

e Athrotaxis selaginoides king billy pine

e Athrotaxis Xlaxifolia hybrid pencil pine

Austrodanthonia tenuior purplish wallabygrass

Baloskion tetraphyllum tassel cordrush

Banksia marginata silver banksia

Bauera rubioides wiry bauera

Baumea tetragona square twigsedge

e Billardiera longiflora purple appleberry

e Blandfordia punicea christmas bells

Blechnum nudum fishbone waterfern

Blechnum pennamarina subsp. alpina alpine waterfern

Blechnum wattsii hard waterfern

Bossiaea cinerea showy bossia

Calorophus elongatus long roperush

e Campynema lineare green mountainlily

Carpha alpina alpine strawsedge

e Carpha curvata curly strawsedge

Cassinia aculeata dollybush

e Cenarrhenes nitida native plum

e Centrolepis monogyna subsp. monogyna western cushionbristlewort

e Chionogentias diemensis subsp. diemensis Tasmanian snowgentain

Comesperma retusum mountain milkwort

Coprosma nitida mountain currant

Cotula alpina alpine buttons

Deyeuxia monticola mountain bentgrass

Deyeuxia quadriseta reed bentgrass

Dianella tasmanica forest flaxlily

Dicksonia antarctica soft treefern

e Diselma archeri dwarf pine

Drosera arcturi alpine sundew

e Ehrharta tasmanica var. tasmanica Tasmanian ricegrass

Empodisma minus spreading roperush



Epacris impressa common heath

Epacris lanuginosa swamp heath

Epacris obtusifolia bluntleaf heath

e Epacris serpyllifolia alpine heath

Eucalyptus nitida western peppermint

Eucalyptus obliqua stringybark

Euchiton collinus common cottonleaf

e Eucryphia lucida leatherwood

Euphrasia sp. eyebright

Eurychorda complanata flat cordrush

e Ewartia meredithiae rusty cushionherb

e Exocarpos humifusus mountain nativecherry

Gahnia grandis cutting grass

Gaultheria hispida copperleaf snowberry

e Gentianella diemensis subsp. diemensis Tasmanian snowgentain

Gleichenia dicarpa pouched coralfern

Gleichenia microphylla scrambling coralfern

Gonocarpus micranthus subsp. micranthus creeping raspwort

Goodenia ovata hop nativeprimrose

Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus buttongrass

e Hakea epiglottis beaked needlebush

e Helichrysum milliganii snow everlasting

Histiopteris incisa batswing fern

Huperzia australiana mother clubmoss

Juncus bassianus forest rush

Juncus gregiflorus green rush

Juncus planifolius broadleaf rush

Lagenophora montana mountain bottledaisy

e Lepidosperma inops fan sedge

Lepidosperma filiforme common rapiersedge



Leptecophylla juniperina subsp. juniperina common pinkberry

e Leptecophylla juniperina subsp. parvifolia mountain pinkberry

Leptocarpus tenax slender twinerush

Leptinella filicula ferny buttons

e Leptospermum glaucescens smoky teatree

Leptospermum lanigerum woolly teatree

e Leptospermum nitidum shiny teatree

Leptospermum scoparium common teatree

Libertia pulchella var. pulchella pretty grassflag

Lobelia gibbosa lobelia

e Lomatia tinctoria guitarplant

t Lycopodiella diffusa buttongrass clubmoss

Lycopodium deuterodensum conifer clubmoss

Lycopodium fastigiatum mountain clubmoss

Mitrasacme pilosa hairy mitrewort

Melaleuca squarrosa scented paperbark

e Microcachrys tetragona creeping pine

Monotoca glauca goldey wood

Monotoca scoparia prickly broomheath

e Monotoca submutica var. submutica mountain broomheath

Nematolepis squamea subsp. squamea satinwood

Nothofagus cunninghamii myrtle beech

e Nothofagus gunnii deciduous beech

Notodanthonia gracilis graceful wallabygrass

Notodanthonia semiannularis marsh wallabygrass

Olearia algida alpine daisybush

e Olearia ledifolia rock daisybush

e Olearia persoonioides geebung daisybush

Olearia stellulata sawleaf daisybush

e Olearia tasmanica Tasmanian daisybush

e Oreobolus acutifolius bloodstain cushionsedge

Oreobolus pumilio subsp. pumilio dwarf cushionsedge

Oreomyrrhis eriopoda Australian caraway



e, R Orites milliganii toothed orites

Oxalis magellanica snowdrop woodsorrel

e Ozothamnus rodwayi alpine everlastingbush

Patersonia fragilis short purpleflag

Pentachondra pumila carpet frillyheath

e Persoonia gunnii var. gunnii mountain geebung

Persoonia juniperina var. juniperina prickly geebung

Philotheca virgata twiggy waxflower

e Phyllocladus aspleniifolius celerytop pine

e, R Planocarpa sulcata grooved cheeseberry

e Plantago tasmanica Tasmanian plantain

Polystichum proliferum mother shieldfern

Pomaderris apetala subsp. apetala common dogwood

ePrionotes cerinthoides

climbing heath

ePrasophyllum alpinum

alpine leekorchid

Prostanthera lasianthos var. lasianthoschristmas mintbush

Pteridium esculentum bracken

Pultenaea juniperina prickly beauty

e Richea pandanifolia subsp. pandanifolia pandani

e Richea scoparia scoparia

e Richea X curtisiae hybrid candleheath

e Rubus gunnianus alpine raspberry

Schizaea fistulosanarrow combfern

Schoenus lepidosperma subsp. lepidospermaslender bogsedge

Selaginella uliginosa swamp spikemoss

Senecio linearifolius fireweed groundsel

e Senecio pectinatus var. pectinatus yellow alpine groundsel

Sprengelia incarnata pink swampheath

Sprengelia montana alpine swampheath



Sticherus tener silky fanfern

Stylidium graminifolium narrowleaf triggerplant

Tasmannia lanceolata mountain pepper

e Telopea truncata Tasmanian waratah

e Tetracarpaea tasmanica delicate laurel

Thelymitra sp. sunorchid

e Trochocarpa cunninghamii straggling purpleberry

e Trochocarpa gunnii fragrant purpleberry

Uncinia compacta compact hooksedge

Utricularia dichotoma fairies aprons

Xanthosia dissecta cutleaf crossherb

e Xyris muelleri roundhead yelloweye

Xyris operculata tall yelloweye

Introduced Species

i Agrostis capillaris var. capillaris browntop bent

i Aira caryophyllea silvery hairgrass

i Cerastium sp. mouseear

i Holcus lanatus yorkshire fog

i Hypochoeris radicata rough catsear

i Juncus bulbosus bulbous rush

i Juncus squarrosus heath rush

iSagina procumbens

spreading pearwort

i, D Ulex europaeus gorse

i Veronica serpyllifolia thyme speedwell


Appendix B

Threatened Flora Data

GHD www.ghd.com.auTel. (03) 6210 0600 Fax. (03)621006012 Salamanca Square Hobart Tas 7000

Minerals and Metals GroupSouth Hercules Threatened Flora Data

Waypoint number Easting Northing Species Number of individuals Area (m)377246 5366568 Orites milliganii 1377120 5366360 Orites milliganii 12 2x10376816 5365648 Planocarpa sulcata 2 5x5376815 5365664 Orites milliganii 2 1x1376825 5365699 Orites milliganii 2 2x1

288 376911 5366581 Planocarpa sulcata 1290 376858 5366210 Orites milliganii 3 5x5291 376841 5366191 Planocarpa sulcata 1292 376874 5366188 Orites milliganii 10 20x10as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 100 20x10293 376858 5366150 Planocarpa sulcata 10 10x10294 376783 5365818 Planocarpa sulcata 15 10x5295 376797 5365744 Planocarpa sulcata 2 10x2296 376802 5365721 Planocarpa sulcata 5 10x10297 376800 5365712 Planocarpa sulcata 4 10x10298 376808 5365689 Planocarpa sulcata 20 10x10as above as above as above Orites milliganii 5 10x20299 376811 5365663 Orites milliganii 3 10x10as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 4 1x1300 376722 5366006 Planocarpa sulcata 3 5x5301 376733 5366013 Planocarpa sulcata 2 1x1302 377248 5366599 Orites milliganii 3 10x1303 377234 5366618 Orites milliganii 15 10x10304 377205 5366645 Orites milliganii 16 15x10as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 4 as above305 377189 5366689 Orites milliganii 4 10x10306 377189 5366710 Orites milliganii 3 5x5as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 3 as above307 377187 5366749 Orites milliganii 6 20x10308 377197 5366795 Orites milliganii 5 10x10309 377197 5366860 Orites milliganii 5 10x10

27/08/20092:18 PMSheet1

F&F Waypoint Data.xls Page 1 of 3

http://www.ghd.com.au


310 377192 5366894 Orites milliganii 5 10x10311 377179 5366928 Orites milliganii 20as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 40312 377219 5366918 Orites milliganii 12 10x10313 377271 5366929 Planocarpa sulcata 1314 377322 5366926 Planocarpa sulcata 1315 377345 5366918 Orites milliganii 1316 377396 5366905 Orites milliganii 5 10x20317 377498 5366984 Planocarpa sulcata 40 20x20as above as above as above Orites milliganii 2 10x10318 377631 5367008 Planocarpa sulcata 60 20x20as above as above as above Orites milliganii 1319 377634 5367010 Orites milliganii 1as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 3 10x10320 377648 5367036 Planocarpa sulcata 50 20x20321 377676 5367058 Planocarpa sulcata 63 20x20as above as above as above Orites milliganii 1322 377731 5367058 Planocarpa sulcata 1323 377761 5367010 Planocarpa sulcata 30 10x15324 377718 5366970 Planocarpa sulcata 24 20x20325 377707 5367004 Planocarpa sulcata 40 20x10326 377690 5367023 Planocarpa sulcata 70 20x10331 377720 5367098 Planocarpa sulcata 3 10x10332 377696 5367163 Planocarpa sulcata 4 2x3333 377687 5367193 Orites milliganii 1335 377671 5367173 Orites milliganii 22 20x10as above as above as above Planocarpa sulcata 80 as above336 377663 5367147 Planocarpa sulcata 15 10x10337 377685 5367115 Planocarpa sulcata 40 20x10338 377667 5367078 Planocarpa sulcata 19 10x10as above as above as above Orites milliganii 1339 377682 5367078 Planocarpa sulcata 30 10x10340 377647 5367079 Planocarpa sulcata 10 10x10341 377706 5367080 Planocarpa sulcata 159 377679 5366947 Orites milliganii60 377707 5366939 Orites milliganii

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63 377589 5366969 Orites milliganii64 377638 5366899 Orites milliganii65 377269 5366417 Orites milliganii66 377280 5366516 Orites milliganii

300

400

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Document Status

Reviewer Approved for IssueRevNo. Author

Name Signature Name Signature Date

DRAFT0

W. McMinn J. Davies On File A. Jungalwalla On File 30/06/09

V0 W. McMinn J. Davies On File A. Jungalwalla On File 27/08/09

V2 W.Mcminn J.Davies On File A. Jungalwalla On File 11/11/09

*Denotes signature on file

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