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Chapter 3 – Estuaries and The Sea

Background Estuaries and the sea includes the coastal zone as defined by the NSW Coastal Policy and includes those areas three nautical miles seaward of the mainland and offshore islands, one kilometre landward of the open coast high water mark, and a distance of one kilometre around all bays, estuaries, coastal lakes, lagoons, islands, and tidal waters of coastal rivers, to the limit of mangroves, (NSW Coastal Council 1997). The land and estuary component of this area has been mapped by DIPNR, refer to figure 3.3, and comprises an area of 9658ha within the Richmond Valley LGA.

Figure 3.1 – Evans Head Village and the Evans River Estuary (Source: DLWC, 2003)

Estuaries are semi-enclosed water bodies at the border of marine and fresh water ecosystems and include river mouths, deltas and barrier lagoons that may be occasionally or permanently open to the sea. They are influenced by tides, are typically marine or brackish, but are occasionally dominated by fresh water from the land. Estuaries are ecologically important habitats, which usually contain naturally high concentrations of nutrients, high productivity and biological diversity. The high concentration of the region’s population in the coastal zone creates significant pressures on coastal and estuarine ecosystems from urban, agricultural, industrial, tourist and recreational development. Land reclamation, habitat modification, stormwater discharge and other point sources of pollution are some of the pressures placed upon the estuaries and the sea in the region. Coastal

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engineering structures such as breakwaters, river training walls, ports, harbours, canal estates also have an impact. Shoreline erosion is an increasing problem in some areas. Beach dunes have been subject to urban encroachment because of demand for seafront housing. Dunes are also threatened by accelerated erosion due to loss of protective dune vegetation, or by pedestrians, off-road vehicles and introduced weeds. Saltmarshes, seagrasses and mangroves are important estuarine and coastal habitats, providing habitat for birds, fish and other aquatic species. Saltmarshes are intertidal salt water wetland habitats comprised of low herbaceous shrubs and grasses, on mainly low energy shores, often behind mangroves. Mangroves tend to be found in the intertidal areas of estuaries and tidal creeks, although they can also occur on sheltered marine shores. Seagrasses are intertidal and sub-tidal flowering plants mainly found within the shallow waters of protected estuaries and bays.

Figure 3.2 – Jerusalem Creek, Bundjalung National Park (Source: DLWC, 2003)

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General Features of Estuaries & the Sea Richmond Valley Council contains and lies adjacent to a range of waterbody types, from upland head-water streams to estuaries and ocean waters. In all 23 subcatchments are located within the Richmond River Catchment. Issues in relation to inland waters have been dealt with in Chapter 2. This chapter has its focus on the coastal and estuarine areas of Richmond Valley Council which include:

the coastal zone Evans River Parts of the Richmond River

Most of Richmond Valley’s coastal fringe (75.7%) comprises National Park, namely being Bundjalung National Park (approximately 16km) and Broadwater National Park (approximately 10.5km) with the remainder of the coastline covered by a combination of Freehold and Crown lands.

Figure 3.3 - Coastal Zone as defined by the NSW Coastal Policy (and State Environmental

Planning Policy No. 71 – Coastal Protection) including SEPP 14 – Coastal Wetlands

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Figure 3.4 – Sea Temperatures around Australia (Source: Bureau of Meteorology 2006)

PRESSURE

Coastal Zone Use Issues Population Growth Rates Population growth is a major pressure on the coastal zone. An assessment of future population projections is contained with Chapter 7 – Human Settlement. It is estimated that 85% of the more than 20 Million Australians live within 1% of the continent and that 80% are living within 50km of the coast. Therefore, population pressures are a major driver of environmental change in the estuaries and coastal waters of Australia. This has effects as diverse as loss of important coastal and nearshore habitat, loss of open space and natural landscape, increased nutrient loads to estuaries, and increased stormwater runoff into coastal waters. The provision of infrastructure to support industrial activities, shipping, tourism ventures and expanding human settlements has both environmental and physical effects. As the predictions of population growth in coastal areas of Australia are for an increasing trend, the quality of our coastal and marine environments will continue to be placed under pressure.

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Figure 3.5 – Distribution of the Australian population in 2000 (Source: ABS, 2000)

Coastal Development The ‘coastal zone’, as defined by the NSW Coastal Policy, totals some 9658ha or 3.2% of the total Richmond Valley LGA. This ‘coastal zone’ has also been described as one of the least disturbed on the Far North Coast of NSW as most of it is contained within National Park. Of the LGA’s coastline approximately 75.7% is within Broadwater and Bundjalung National Parks. The remainder of the coastline is covered by a combination of Freehold and Crown Lands. Although the remaining portions of coastal land lie outside the boundaries of National Parks they still remain protected by the Richmond River LEP 1992, under Environmental Protection zones:

7(c) - Environmental Protection (Flora & Fauna) Zone, or 7(f) - Environmental Protection (Coastal Land) Zone

The Evans River catchment has also been described as being largely undisturbed. Approximately 84% of its catchment remains in its natural state and urban development has only occurred at the ocean entrance to the estuary. No sewage or industrial waste is discharged into the river, and no commercial fishing is permitted. However, the river is under stress from siltation, bank instability, and acid discharges.

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Major development in the LGA’s Coastal Zone NSW Sugar Milling Co-operative Biomass Co-generation

Project Development application No. 2002.0292 was lodged by Pacific Energy on 14 February 2002 to develop a biomass cogeneration plant at the NSW Sugar Milling Cooperative Pty Ltd’s Broadwater Sugar Mill. The proposal involves the installation of additional boilers and plant for to generate a total of 38 megawatts of electrical power, an additional 30 megawatts, from the burning of cane trash and bagasse. The new boilers would also be operated 24/7 rather than just during the crushing season. The residual woody cane husk is known as bagasse and is a by product of the sugar cane crushing process. This along with leaf matter will be stockpiled during the crushing season and then returned to the plant off season to generate power. Additional leaf litter fuel will be collected at the mill with the advent of green harvesting, thus enabling the harnessing of this wasted energy, elimination of black ash that is currently dispersed across the region, and remove a load of organic matter that collects in drains creating monosulphidic black ooze (MBO) (an organic sediment formed in drains by bacteria in the presence of organic matter, water, iron and nutrients).

Returned Servicemen’s Retirement Village Evans Head A 120 unit retirement village with 60 bed nursing home and a 40 bed hostel was proposed to be erected on vacant Crown land in Carrabeen Street, Evans Head is proposed on the surplus airfield land at the corner of Currajong and Woodburn Streets, Evans Head. Investigations into contaminated land and a heritage management plan are underway on the State Heritage listed airfield.

Tourism The fundamental economic base of Evans Head, consistent with many North Coast regions is tourism. With the township of Evans Head swelling to some 10,000 visitors in peak holiday season, tourism is a fundamental aspect of Evans Head economic environment. As a result, the continued growth of Evans Head economic base is vital for growth and future development and employment. This continued development of the tourist industry has and will continue to impact heavily on the natural environment with tourists and visitors alike virtually ‘loving the area to death’. Such impacts on the coastal area include:

Additional pressure on local water and sewer infrastructure Increased recreational fishing (Fishing Classic) and thus depleted fish stocks Increased recreational use of natural areas including 4WD on Airforce Beach Increased safety issues Increased litter, vandalism

Development strategies must therefore be focused at the assistance of growth in the economic sectors of tourism and commerce as well as protection of the coastal zones natural areas.

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Water Quality Indicator 1 - Point source discharges - a) No., location and type of point source

discharges – type and volume of discharge and any prosecutions, b) Area of urban collection catchment, percentage of this area with discharge point sources (predominantly stormwater outlets) and percentage of this area treated to primary, secondary and tertiary stormwater treatment levels

Fish Kills Refer to Chapter 2 – Inland Waters for details.

Sewerage Treatment Plants Richmond Valley Council currently operates four (4) sewerage schemes, additional information is available on these systems in Chapter 2. Systems operating in the Coastal Zone are located at Evans Head (and Woodburn), and a small package plant at Rileys Hill.

Evans Head Sewerage System The Evans Head/Woodburn treatment works was initially constructed in 1942 and consisted of an Imhoff tank and Digestion tank. In 1970 these units were augmented by a conventional trickling filter plant. The treatment works was designed to operate under the variable biological and hydraulic loading which seasonally occur in Evans Head. This adaptability is achieved through the operation of the two biological filters in either the high rate or low rate modes. The high rate mode involves operation of the recirculation pumps and is used under the higher hydraulic and BOD loading which occurs during the peak tourist season. Secondary effluent is currently discharged to the east of the treatment works into marsh lands which drain into Salty Lake Lagoon in Broadwater National Park. There have been studies undertaken to determine whether the discharge is having a detrimental effect on the wetlands. Interpretations of the results have drawn mixed conclusions as to whether there is an impact on the ecosystem. Council is actively investigating it’s options for wet weather releases and dry weather re-use. A wet weather release option is currently being investigated which will involve release of tertiary treated effluent to a point 800m east of the Evans River bar during ebb-tides. An options report is also being prepared to allow for dry weather re-use of tertiary treated effluent onto sporting fiels, a golf course, and school grounds within Evans Head and Woodburn. Construction of the new STP is currently underway and will be completed in April 2007. Stage 1 of the new plant has been designed to cater for 5500 EP with Stage 2 to bring the ultimate capacity up to 11,000EP. Stage 1 is being constructed by Reed Constructions. There are a range of “projects” being progressed by Council in relation to the Woodburn-Evans Head Sewerage System. These are summarised as follows:

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Sewerage Treatment Plant Augmentation Reeds Construction have commenced work on this project (i.e. Stage 1 of the augmentation of the Plant at a contract price of $11,649,786.50). These works are expected to be completed in mid 2007. Upgrade of Sewerage Reticulation System Work is progressing with the design and documentation for the augmentation of the sewage pump stations and rising mains. It is anticipated that this part of the project will be completed in December 2006, with construction works to commence during 2007. In addition, a tender for the relining of sewer mains in Evans Head has been awarded. This work is due to commence prior to the end of 2006 and will address infiltration and ageing pipe issues. Interim Effluent Re-Use As part of the Department of Environment and Conservation licence conditions, Council has been required to pursue interim effluent re-use proposal options to reduce discharge to Salty Lagoon. To meet this requirement a proposal was developed to install a trial irrigation scheme on the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome. The proposal is for a 4 hectare triangular section of the aerodrome between the runways. The progression and implementation of this project has been delayed due to approval requirements of the NSW Heritage Office. Whilst the Heritage Office supports the proposal in principle, community objection to the proposal has prompted the Heritage Office to require further reports on the impact of the proposed development on aviation operations, including the potential for increased birdlife and its impact on aviation uses. Unfortunately these delays increase the cost on Council and the community. Salty Lagoon Rehabilitation and Management Strategy As part of requirements by the Department of Environment and Conservation, Council was required to adopt a preferred option for the rehabilitation and management of Salty Lagoon. Following the consideration of community input, Council resolved at its August 2006 Meeting to adopt a rehabilitation option that consists of the following: 1. Implement dry weather re-use, to reduce hydraulic and nutrient loads to Salty Lagoon; 2. Develop and implement an ecosystem monitoring program; 3. Implement STP augmentation, to further reduce the nutrient load to Salty Lagoon; 4. Consider, in association with NPWS, implementing reed harvesting, to promote nutrient cycling; 5. Consider, in association with NPWS, implementing revegetation;

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6. Develop and implement the preferred wet weather release option, to remove all artificial hydraulic and nutrient loads from Salty Lagoon; 7. Review the monitoring program, to ensure the anticipated benefits are being realised; 8. Consider, in association with NPWS, closure of the artificial channel, to restore the natural hydraulic regime; 9. Conduct an assessment after 5 years of monitoring, to determine if further action is warranted. The details of the rehabilitation and management strategy will be developed in conjunction with DEC – Environmental Protection Regulatory Division, DEC – National Parks and Wildlife Service, relevant Aboriginal representatives, and will be consistent with the Broadwater National Park’s Plan of Management. Wet Weather Release Strategy The processes and systems that Council has been addressing to deal with sewerage treatment and effluent at Evans Head has included the need to have a process to dispose of excess effluent that cannot be re-used. There has been an extensive process over a number of years in regard to this issue; that process involved Council, government agencies, a committee with community membership and the community in general. The following options were investigated and assessed at various times: ▪ Ocean Outfall ▪ Deep Well Injection ▪ Release into Richmond River ▪ Ebb Tide Release to Evans River ▪ Sand Fluidisation. The final report on wet weather release (completed earlier this year) identified five sites within the Evans River for consideration for ebb tide discharge (with sand fluidisation considered as an option at one of the sites). In response to strong community opposition to discharge of effluent at all the nomination sites, the Department of Environment and Conservation responded by requiring Council to embark on a more detailed study based on Site 1 (at the estuary mouth) as the preferred location and an extension of Site 1 into deeper water found east of the estuary mouth. The study was based on comprehensive field data, using calibrated models and optimised diffuser structures. The Department of Environment and Conservation worked closely with Council to provide detailed advice on how to design and conduct these studies. The studies were conducted by GHD, in co-operation with Griffith University and GeoLink. The aim of this study was to confirm the most suitable location of Site 1 for ebb tide release. The outcome of these investigations and assessment is that Council resolved to: 1. adopt, as its preferred option for the release of excess effluent from the augmented Evans Head STP, a deep water ebb tide discharge north east of the estuary mouth. 2. the location of the deep water ebb tide discharge be in the vicinity of Site C, approximately 800 metres north east of the estuary mouth, east of the existing 4WD track.

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3. apply to Department of Environment and Conservation for approval for a deep water ebb tide discharge in the vicinity of Site C, with the precise location to be determined in negotiation with the Department. Council will now move forward with the preparation of final technical studies, environmental impact assessment and design documentation.

Rileys Hill Sewerage Treatment Plant A small package treatment plant was established at Rileys Hill in 2003 to service this small Village. The plant provides tertiary (chlorination) treatment and discharges into the Richmond River. Indicator 2 – Total No. of new septic approvals per year and percentage of population

serviced by septics or sewer

On-site Effluent Disposal Septic tanks are a common feature of rural residential development and have been identified as a potential contributor to water pollution in the region. The Local Government (Approvals) Amendment (Sewage Management) Regulation 1998 requires registration and inspection of on-site sewage management systems such as septic tanks, aerated waste water treatment systems, composting toilets and cesspits. Refer to Chapter 2 – Inland Waters for further details.

Broadwater Village On-site effluent Disposal Housing in Broadwater Village is serviced by individual on-site sewerage management systems (or septics) as there is no reticulated sewerage scheme. There is estimated to be about 199 properties in Broadwater (based on number of water connections) connected to septic, plus 2 caravan parks, a public hall, motel, bowling club, and a pub. The average house block is about 1200m2. Much of the Village front the Richmond River and all but those on the River Street hill, are on highly permeable sandy soils with a high watertable. This situation is a recipe for disaster, with contaminated water flowing into open table drains throughout the Village and discharging, untreated, directly into the river, thus raising health and pollution fears. An investigation into sewering the Village has concluded that the establishment of a scheme is viable and warranted, however, financial resources have yet to be realised to commence the project. The project has been placed on the NSW Government’s waiting list which could see funding being available in another 10 years. In the mean time, the NSW Government have cut back funding towards regional water and sewer projects thus making this waiting time longer. In March 2006 Council resolved to commit to the implementation of a sewerage augmentation at Broadwater.

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In recent months Council have considered reports relating to the stages/timeframes involved in the project and also options for the collation and transport of the waste water that will be generated as part of the sewer connection. In that regard Council has adopted as the preferred option, the useage of a low pressure pumping system. Council staff are now developing draft policies that will define how the system will be managed, maintained and operated. An information meeting relating to the sewerage augmentation at Broadwater is being scheduled for November 2006 (and will be separately advertised by Council).

Licensed Premises There are a number DEC licensed premises that both directly and indirectly discharge by-product into receiving inland waters. A list of all licensed premises is contained within Appendix A.

Urban Stormwater Runoff Urban stormwater contains a number of contaminants from nutrients to oils, organic matter, litter, and is also a source of disease. Stormwater Management Plans have been prepared for urban stormwater catchments in accordance with a Direction issued to all NSW councils by the EPA. The aims of the Plan are to co-ordinate the management of urban Stormwater and improve water quality discharging from urban areas into adjoining waterbodies.

Floodgates Floodgates prevent tidal water moving upstream and only allow upstream water to be drained to the level of the floodgate base. This creates a range of problems including:

drying out of wetlands that result in the changing of plant species. Often important fish habitat such as mangroves, seagrasses and salt marsh have been replaced by exotic weeds that thrive in the freshwater conditions behind the floodgate.

floodgates restrict the passage of native fish and therefore hinder breeding, feeding and other important life cycle functions.

soils are exposed to air due to the lowered water table and absence of tidal inundation. This can result in the exposure of acid sulfate soils and can cause many biological problems such as fish kills and the mobilising of heavy metals. In a flood event acid affected water from behind floodgates is released into downstream waters in one big dose making assimilation more difficult.

stagnant waters with low dissolved oxygen levels behind floodgates can be released in flood events and can result in fish kills.

In many cases, these impacts can be minimised. Making changes to the operation of floodgates that may be as simple as periodic opening during non-flood periods which would improve both downstream and drainage environmental conditions.

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Acid Sulfate Soil Hotspots Potential Acid Sulfate Soils (PASS) become acidic (mature) if exposed to oxygen when drained or excavated, forming actual acid sulfate soils (AASS). This acid degrades the soils and when it is leached or flushed into surrounding water bodies, it can stress or kill fish and degrade estuarine habitats. The release of sulphuric acid can mobilise aluminum or iron from sediment that can also have adverse effects on the environment. A number of recognised Acid Sulfate Soil hotspots have been identified within the Richmond Valley LGA that require careful management to avoid leaching or flushing into surrounding waterbodies and possibly resulting in major fish kills. These include areas at:

Rocky Mouth Creek Sandy Creek – Bungawalbin Creek

The Sandy Creek hot spot is likely to be extended to incorporate parts of the Swan Bay area. ASS has been dealt with in more detail in Chapter 3 - Land.

Algal Blooms During early March 1998 (and intermittently thereafter), blooms of Trichodesmium sp., a marine blue green algae, occurred in the coastal waters adjoining the Region’s coastline. The algae were identified by both field and laboratory microscopy. These blooms are commonly known as ‘coral spawn', ‘red tides' or ‘sea sawdust'. During March 1998 the blooms were carried by the currents, tides and winds into the Evans River estuary causing oily paint like slicks in the lower estuary areas and beaches. The decaying algae gave off a strong rotting vegetation type odour. The cause of the bloom appears to have been a natural occurrence and most likely related to the higher sea surface temperatures, that is some 2.0-2.5 degrees Celsius higher than usual for the time of year. Similar blooms were reported from the Great Barrier Reef to the South of Coffs Harbour. Whilst Trichodesmium is generally regarded as a tropical species its presence in NSW waters is not uncommon and under favourable conditions is readily transported south by the Eastern Australia current. The algal bloom was reported to the North Coast Regional Algal Coordination Committee in accordance with established protocols. There were no recorded algal blooms within the 2004-05 or 2005-06 reporting years.

Tuckombil Canal The Tuckombil Canal was constructed at the turn of the 20th Century to divert additional flood flows from the Richmond River into the Evans River via Rocky Mouth Creek. A flagstone set just above the high tide level prevented tidal interflow between the systems. In 1965 the canal was deepened and widened to take up to 25% of the

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Richmond River flood flows. A fabridam, an inflatable rubber barrage, was installed to both prevent salt-water intrusion into Rocky Mouth Creek (when inflated) and maximising the waterway area during flood (when deflated). Salt water intrusion from the Evans River into the Richmond River occurs without the fabridam due to variations between tidal peak height between the Richmond and Evans Rivers relating to the distance of the structure to the respective river mouths. The flood relief benefits are most notable for the Village of Woodburn, properties along Rocky Mouth Creek, and in the Swan Bay area as far reaching as Reardons Lane, (WBM 2001). By 1983 the fabridam had deteriorated beyond repair and was replaced in 1985 with a fixed crest coffer dam, with a crest height of 1.0m AHD, and two control gates. It was believed that the coffer dam had exacerbated flooding in March 1987 so approximately one-third of the structure was removed. The remainder of the sheet piling was removed following three major floods in 13 months, however, this allowed salinity intrusion within Rocky Mouth Creek. Due to overwhelming support from local landholders for the reinstatement of the fabridam, a replacement was installed in 1993. The fabridam was constructed with a 30-year warranty, however, in July 2001 the dam suffered its second major failure since being installed. The first failure resulted from vandalism and, after a costly repair, the fabridam was left with weak seams that prevented it from being fully inflated. The second failure was much worse with several seams completely splitting. As an interim measure a static 1.8 metre modular concrete weir was installed with construction being undertaken by Richmond Valley Council. The weir is designed to prevent the passage of saline water from the Evans River into the Richmond while enabling it to be overtopped by floodwaters. The Richmond River County Council has been investigating its long-term management options for the canal through a community consultation committee. The committee has varying concerns from a desire to have the fabridam reinstalled, to no device installed, to the canal completely filled, to a permanent weir structure erected, to flood gates installed etc. An options paper has been prepared by the committee in September 2006, recommending a fully opening/closing structure. this option will be put to the community before a final option is adopted by Richmond River County Council.

Habitat Losses Seagrass The extent of seagrass beds in the Evans River have been illustrated in figures 3.09 and 3.10. These beds are under great stress from terrestrial based siltation in the lower Evans River. Observations of seagrass beds in 2000 noted that they were expanding in distribution, however, the floods of February-March 2001 buried most of the beds in considerable fine silts. Thus the distribution was dramatically reduced.

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Littoral Rainforests The NSW Scientific Committee listed Littoral Rainforest in the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregion as an endangered ecological community on 4 June 2004. The listing under Part 3 of Schedule 1 to the Threatened Species Conservation Act. It describes Littoral Rainforest as generally being a closed forest, the structure and composition of which is strongly influenced by proximity to the ocean. The plant species in this ecological community are predominantly rainforest species with evergreen mesic or coriaceous leaves. Several species have compound leaves, and vines may be a major component of the canopy. These features differentiate littoral rainforest from sclerophyll forest or scrub, but while the canopy is dominated by rainforest species, scattered emergent individuals of sclerophyll species, such as Angophora costata, Banksia integrifolia, Eucalyptus botryoides and E. tereticornis occur in many stands. Littoral Rainforest in NSW is found at locations along the entire NSW Coast in the NSW North Coast Bioregion, Sydney Basin Bioregion and South East Corner Bioregion. The areas mapped for inclusion in State Environmental Planning Policy 26 Littoral Rainforest are examples of the Littoral Rainforest ecological communities, but the mapping for SEPP 26 is not exhaustive and stands of the Littoral Rainforest ecological community occur at locations not mapped under SEPP 26. Some stands may be regrowth or in the process of regenerating. Most stands of Littoral Rainforest occur within 2 km of the sea, but may occasionally be found further inland, but within reach of maritime influence. Weed species that threaten the integrity of particular stands include Ambrosia artemisifolia, Anredera cordifolia, Arecastrum romanzoffianum, Asparagus spp., Cardiospermum grandiflorum, Chrysanthemoides monilifera, Coprosma repens, Ehrharta spp., Gloriosa superba, Ipomoea spp; Impatiens walleriana, Lantana camara, Macfadyena unguis-cati, Rivina humilis, Pennisetum clandestinim, Schefflera actinophylla, Senna septemtrionalis, Solanum mauritianum Thunbergia alata and Tradescantia fluminensis. Other threats include loss of canopy integrity arising from salt and wind damage as a result of clearing or damage to stand margins; clearing of understorey (including for firewood collection); grazing and physical disturbance of understorey including by feral deer; inappropriate collection of a range of plant species (including, but not restricted to, epiphytes); fire, particularly fire incursion along boundaries: visitor disturbance including soil compaction, soil disturbance, erosion from foot, cycle, trail bike and 4 wheel drive tracks, introduction of pathogens, and disturbance from creation of new planned and unplanned tracks; increased visitation and resulting increased demand for and use of, visitor facilities such as walking tracks, viewing platforms, toilet blocks, picnic areas etc; dumping of garden waste causing weed infestation; car and other rubbish dumping. Loss of fauna due to predation by feral animals, road kill, loss of habitat and feeding resources, disturbance from human visitation (faunal elements are essential to the ecological functioning of littoral rainforest and loss, or reduction, in pollinators and seed dispersal agents will adversely affect long term vegetation health); fragmentation resulting in loss of connectivity and possibly reduced genetic exchange between populations. For stands not protected by State Environmental Planning Policy 26, clearing and development remains a possibility. (Adam 1987, 1992; Floyd 1990; Mills 1996).

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In view of the above the Scientific Committee is of the opinion that Littoral Rainforest in the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregions is likely to become extinct in nature in New South Wales unless the circumstances and factors threatening its survival or evolutionary development cease to operate.

Marine Pests Marine pests have been introduced into Australian waters in various ways, including in ballast waters, attached to the hulls of international ships, or imported deliberately as aquarium or aquaculture species. An estimated 250 exotic marine species have been introduced into Australian waters in these ways. Not all marine pest species in NSW come from outside Australia. Some are native to other parts of Australia and are transported here, for example, through domestic shipping or the aquarium trade. Marine pests can have severe ecological and economic impacts. For example, they can take over large areas of habitat to the detriment of the native species. Some prey directly on native species or compete with them for food. Pest species can also cause considerable economic damage. Infestations of marine pests can impact on marine industries, such as aquaculture, commercial and recreational fishing and boating, tourism and even international and domestic shipping. Some marine pests, such as toxic dinoflagellates, can threaten public health. A list of marine weeds and pests is unavailable for the Richmond Valley LGA.

Weeds A number of weeds particularly bitou bush and lantana have been responsible to loss of extensive areas of coastal vegetation. Bitou bush was planted in the 1960s and 70s as a quick vegetative replacement for disturbed coastal sand mining sites. However, its vigor has overwhelmed native species to their detriment. Furthermore, the weed doesn’t tolerate salt spray dies back to expose sand dunes to wind erosion. As a result large resources are being used to control this weed and strategies such as the NSW North Coast Bitou Bush Management Strategies (2001) have been prepared. The NSW North Coast Bitou Bush Strategy is an initiative of the North Coast Weed Advisory Committee (NCWAC) who have recognised that the bitou bush problem is of such magnitude that a regional strategic approach is required in order to reduce the impacts of the plant.

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Bitou bush poses a serious threat to biodiversity, aesthetic values, community access and coastal infrastructure within the region. It currently infests approximately 90% of the region’s coastline and was predicted by Love (1984) to infest almost all of the region’s natural coastal areas by 2010. There are a number of stakeholders involved in the control of bitou bush including many community groups. The strategies have been developed to improve co-ordination between them and promote the use of best management practices. The strategies expand and compliment the Regional Weed Control Plan produced by the North Coast Weed Advisory Committee. Use of appropriate control techniques, restoration of native habitats and regular follow up is vital to ensure that bitou bush is not replaced by other weeds. The production of maps highlighting the distribution and abundance of bitou bush are an important component of the plan so that appropriate strategies can be utilised in each area. To achieve the aims of the project, strategies have been developed to:

Coordinate management between stakeholders and compile all relevant information;

Raise community awareness and involvement, and; Implement on-ground integrated management.

The key outcomes of the project are:

Production of bitou bush distribution and abundance maps for the region; Establishment of a regional framework and co-ordinated approach, overseen

by the Bitou bush Taskforce; Strategies which encourage community groups and seek involvement from

the wider community; Lists of priorities to which management should be targeted; Strategies to ensure that control is targeted to priority areas; Strategies to improve co-ordination at the local level including the compilation

of information to ensure that benefits of control are maximised; A framework for the update and review of the strategies; Lists and contact details of key stakeholders, and; Lists of relevant publications.

Dune erosion and coastal recession Coastal dunes are the first line of defence against high seas and beach erosion. The dunes are eroded to form a sand bar off-shore thus buffering the coast from wave energy.

Global Warming and Sea Rise It is generally agreed by the scientific community that the emission of greenhouse gases will result in global warming and climatic changes. One of the greatest concerns from the ‘greenhouse effect’ is that sea level will rise by between 20 and

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40cm (CSIRO) by 2025. As a result many Australian coastal communities are investigating the impacts of such a sea level rise and the predicted increases in extreme weather patterns, such as cyclones, rainfall, flooding, coastal erosion etc.

STATE

Water Quality Indicator 3 – Percentage exceedances of ANZECC water quality guidelines, or locally

derived trigger values for recreation; aquatic ecosystem protection; irrigation and stock watering detected during routine monitoring programs (not one off/incident/pollution events or issue identification).

No data is available on exceedances of ANZECC guidelines.

Habitat Extent Evans River Riparian and Marine Habitat Indicator 19 – Presence or absence of riparian zone vegetation (if possible length or

percentage of stream with vegetation)

A study was undertaken by Adam Kiss (2002) as part of his integrated project at Southern Cross University. Kiss undertook this study at the request of the Evans River Coastline and Estuary Management Committee. Riparian vegetation had been mapped along the Evans River by Patterson Britton & Partners (1999) within the Evans River Estuary Processes Study. Kiss as part of his study undertook more thorough mapping and assessment of the riparian vegetation and has been reproduced as Figures 3.6 to 3.9.

Figure 3.6 – Evans River Riparian Vegetation Communities – Not to Scale. (Source: Kiss

2002)

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Figure 3.7 – Evans River Riparian Vegetation Communities – Not to Scale. (Source: Kiss

2002)

Figure 3.8 – Evans River Riparian Vegetation Communities - Not to scale. (Source: Kiss

2002)

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Figure 3.9 - Evans River Riparian Vegetation Communities – Not to Scale. (Source: Kiss

2002)

Indicator 20 – Extent and degree of change of marine habitat types (mangroves,

saltmarshes, and seagrasses)

In 1999 Angus Martin undertook an evaluation of seagrass meadows in the Evans River as his integrated project at Southern Cross University. Angus reported that Evans River seagrass meadows are consistent with most similar habitats worldwide and have been disappearing over the past few decades. This loss may be as a result of natural events (eg ‘wasting disease’ or high-energy storms) but most seagrass loss has resulted from human activities. The general hypothesis for seagrass decline is a decrease in light penetration thus a reduction in photosysnthesis. A small reduction in light will reduce the depth range of seagrass meadows while particulate on leaves could eliminate meadows over extensive areas of shallower water. Another major problem in marine environments globally is nutrient enrichment leading to enhanced phytoplankton growth and macroscopic algae growth on leaves. The Evans River Estuary and Coastline Management Committee has identified the disappearance of seagrass over the past few decades as a major concern and requested the study by Martin to be carried out to identify the extent of the loss. Martin undertook a historic evaluation of seagrass habitat by aerial photo interpretation as well as field surveys. Table 3.01 documents the area of seagrass mapped within the Evans River. Figures 3.09 & 3.10 depicts the change in population size and distribution in seagrass colonies between 1943 and 1999.

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Figure 3.10 – Seagrass beds in the Evans River captured from 1943 Aerial Photography

(Source: Martin 1999)

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Table 3.1 shows a substantial decline in seagrass between 1943 and 1999. Table 3.2 relates to numbering of each individual patch of seagrass mapped during the 1999 field survey and depicted within Figure 3.10. Table 3.1 – Approximate area of seagrass from aerial photograph interpretation and field surveys (Source: Martin, 1999)

Year Area (Ha)

1943 aerial photograph 7.31

1953 aerial photograph 5.92

1980 aerial photograph 1.38

1986 aerial photograph 1.25

1998 aerial photograph 1.69

1999 field observation 0.33

Table 3.2 – Description of Evans River seagrass beds observed in field surveys in 1999 (Source: Martin, 1999)

Patch Number

Description Approx. Size (m2)

1 100% cover 22.5 2 6 patches, 100% cover 11.52 total 3 100% cover 6.75 4 100% cover 3 5 100% cover 0.8 6 100% cover 0.8 7 100% cover 1.1 8 100% cover 7 9 100% cover 6.5 10 3 patches, 100% cover 5.7 11 100% cover 1.95 12 100% cover 18 13 4 patches, 100% cover 320 14 100% cover 2019 15 1 patch 3 separate parts, (a) 20m x 4m 65% cover,

(b) 27m x 6m 80% cover, (c) 16mx 1m 30% cover 722

16 100% cover 21 17 100% cover 12.25 18 3 beds, 100% cover 6.25 19 100% cover 38.5 20 100% cover 28 21 60% cover 6 22 4 patches, 100% cover 6.5 23 100% cover 1.2 24 100% cover 70 25 100% cover 0.36 26 80% cover, Zoestra not posidonia 0.5 Total Area 3337.1

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The majority of seagrass patches were located around Mangrove Island and all were identified as Zostera capricorni. Changes in the distribution since 1943 is quite obvious from Martin’s interpretations. Patches on the eastern and western side of Mangrove Island were more prominent in 1943 than they were in 1953. Another trend that was observed is that particularly on the northern side of the lower estuary is the large amount of sediment deposition that has appeared over the years. This may have resulted in increased turbidity and smothering of established seagrass beds as well as preventing any new beds establishing. From 1980 the change in distribution of seagrass is particularly obvious. Water testing by Paterson Britton & Partners (1999), undertaken as part of the Evans River Estuary Processes Study and documented within Martin’s report, were compared to Environment Protection Authority water quality guidelines for the protection of aquatic ecosystems. The results determined that total suspended solids were at 16mm/L while the guidelines recommend <0.5mg/L. Total Phosporus and Nitrogen levels were recorded at levels below guideline recommendations. This means that algae growth and eutrophication are not contributing factors in the decline of seagrass populations within the Evans River and that suspended solids and sedimentation would appear to be major contributors.

Figure 3.11 – Seagrass beds in the Evans River captured from 1999 Field Survey (Source:

Martin, 1999)

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Water quality monitoring, just north of Mangrove Island, undertaken by Council had recorded the presence of seagrass patches along the northern shoreline of the Evans River. The distribution of these patches appeared to be expanding, however, observations made after the 2001 floods showed that most of these seagrass beds were buried beneath a blanket of fine silt. Table 3.3 – Declining seagrass areas within three Northern Rivers catchments (Source: Martin, 1999)

River Area (ha) Year Area (ha) Year % loss Clarence River 356 1942 158 1981 55%

Tweed River 110 1947 33 1981 70%

Evans River 7.31 1943 1.38 1980 At least 81%

Wetlands Figure 3.03 identifies the extent of State Environmental Planning Policy No. 14 – Coastal Wetlands in the Richmond Valley area. There is currently 3645ha of SEPP14 in the Richmond Valley LGA, adjusted for recent LGA boundary changes. These mapped wetland areas are protected under the SEPP from being cleared, filled, drained or having a levee constructed through them, unless a development consent with an environmental impact statement is obtained from Council and concurred by the Director-General of the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources. The Richmond River LEP 1992 has adapted the SEPP14 mapping to create Zone No. 7(a) – Environmental Protection (Wetlands).

Reserves and Wilderness National Parks

About 75.7% of the Richmond Valley LGA coastline contained within National Park. This equates to 26.5km of shoreline. A further 3km is contained within Dirrawong Reserve at Goanna Headland, Evans Head. The remaining shoreline comprises of freehold and Crown lands, of which are mostly covered by environmental protection zonings under the Richmond River LEP. For further on reserves refer to Chapter 5 – Biodiversity for details.

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Figure 3.12 – Extent of Coastal National Park and Nature Reserves in Richmond Valley LGA.

Dirrawong Reserve Dirrawong Reserve (R.140012) is located at South Evans Head and comprises of Crown land reserved for conservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage, preservation of fauna, preservation of native flora and public recreation. The Reserve is managed by the Dirrawong Reserve Trust primarily for its cultural heritage significance to the Aboriginal community but also for its habitat value. The land is further protected under Richmond River LEP 92 with a zoning of 7(c) – Environmental Protection (Flora & Fauna).

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Figure 3.13 – Locality plan for Dirrawong Reserve

RESPONSE

Coastal Zone Legislation Fisheries Management Act 1994 Management of aquatic biota is influenced by international agreements such as the convention on biodiversity, as well as the Fisheries Management Act 1994 and Fisheries Management Amendment Act 1997. These Acts place the responsibility for managing fishery resources and fish habitat, and the development of fish habitat protection plans with Department of Primary Industries (NSW Fisheries). There are fish habitat protection plans which could have an influence on Council management of inland waters and aquatic systems, for example, some of these plans relate to dredging and reclamation, fish passage, mangroves, other marine vegetation and snags, and seagrasses. Refer below for additional information regarding recovery plans for endangered fish species.

Threatened Species Conservation Act Management of terrestrial flora and fauna is influenced by international agreements such as RAMSAR, JAMBA, CAMBA etc, as well as the Threatened Species Conservation Act and a variety of other State Acts. The TSC Act places the responsibility for managing endangered and threatened species, and their habitat with the Department of Environment and Conservation (formerly this was with the NPWS).

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The Act provides for the identification, conservation and recovery of threatened species and their populations and communities. It also aims to reduce the threats faced by those species through a licence/permit system, threat abatement plans, recovery plans, identification of critical habitat, identification of threatened or endangered species, key threatened populations, and key threatening processes.

Native Vegetation Act 2003 The Native Vegetation Act 2003 has been created to replace the Native Vegetation Conservation Act. The new Act become effective upon implementation of new regulations, on publicly exhibition until 21 December 2004. This change in management of native vegetation is as a result of State Government reforms. In the interim the NVC Act will continue along with the current level of exemptions that were carried over from State Environmental Planning Policy No. 46 – Clearing of Native Vegetation. Amendment to the NVC Act in 2004 removed application of the 2ha per year exemption within the coastal zone.

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) The Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), came into force on 16 July 2000. It provides for certain actions – in particular, action which are likely to have significant impact on a matter of national environmental signficance – are subject to a rigorous assessment and approval process. The Commonwealth may, through bilateral agreements, delegate to the States the responsibility for conducting assessments and, in limited circumstances, the responsibility for deciding whether to grant approval. There are seven matters of national environmental significance (NES) that are triggers for Commonwealth assessment and approval. These are:

World Heritage properties; National Heritage places (from 1 January 2004); wetlands which are listed as Ramsar wetlands of international

importance; nationally threatened species and communities which are listed under the

EPBC Act (note that these species may not be the same as those listed under State legislation);

migratory species that are listed under the EPBC Act (these are migratory species protected under international agreements);

Nuclear actions, including uranium mining; and the Commonwealth marine environment (which is generally Australian

waters beyond the 3 nautical mile limit of State waters). Under the EPBC Act a person must not take an action that has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on any of these matters of NES without approval from the Commonwealth Environment Minister.

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Coastal Zone Policies & Strategies Managing Estuaries and Seas Government inquiries have identified the fragmented and often overlapping responsibilities in the coastal zone as impediments to effective planning and management. No single organisation is responsible for its management, and it is not defined administratively. Management of the coastal zone is subject to a range of government and non-government organisations with responsibilities that may be complementary at times, but can often be disparate and overlapping.

Figure 3.14 – Australia’s Maritime Zone

NSW Coastal Policy 1997 The Coastal Policy was released by the NSW Government in November 1997 and is the major policy guiding management and use of the coastal zone, intending to improve and co-ordinate management in the coastal zone. The policy focuses on the need to balance population growth and economic development against the conservation of valuable ecosystems as well as the cultural and heritage values of the coast. Prime responsibility to implement the policy rests with relevant State Government agencies and local councils. Councils involved in the implementation of this policy in the Northern Rivers region include Tweed, Ballina, Byron, Richmond Valley and Clarence Valley, and these councils are required to provide details of their implementation progress through SoE reporting.

SEPP71 – Coastal Protection State Environmental Planning Policy No. 71 – Coastal Protection is an off spin of the Coastal Policy. It was introduced in 2002 with the aim:

(a) to protect and manage the natural, cultural, recreational and economic attributes of the New South Wales coast, and

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(b) to protect and improve existing public access to and along coastal foreshores to the extent that this is compatible with the natural attributes of the coastal foreshore, and

(c) to ensure that new opportunities for public access to and along coastal foreshores are identified and realised to the extent that this is compatible with the natural attributes of the coastal foreshore, and

(d) to protect and preserve Aboriginal cultural heritage, and Aboriginal places, values, customs, beliefs and traditional knowledge, and

(e) to ensure that the visual amenity of the coast is protected, and (f) to protect and preserve beach environments and beach amenity, and (g) to protect and preserve native coastal vegetation, and (h) to protect and preserve the marine environment of New South Wales, and (i) to protect and preserve rock platforms, and (j) to manage the coastal zone in accordance with the principles of ecologically

sustainable development (within the meaning of section 6 (2) of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991 ), and

(k) to ensure that the type, bulk, scale and size of development is appropriate for the location and protects and improves the natural scenic quality of the surrounding area, and

(l) to encourage a strategic approach to coastal management. The Policy identifies State Significant development in the coastal zone whether certain types or scales of development in sensitive coastal locations must be referred to the Director-General for comment. Another requirement of the Policy is the preparation of master plans for certain development, with such being signed-off by the Minister.

SEPP14 – Coastal Wetlands State Environmental Planning Policy No. 14 – Coastal Wetlands was introduced in 1985 to map and protect sensitive coastal wetlands that were under threat from drainage and clearing. The Policy requires development consent to clear, drain, fill or construct a levee through mapped wetlands, along with the Concurrence of the Director-General. Such develop is considered to be designated development and therefore, requires an environmental impact statement to be prepared. Figure 3.03 identifies the extent of SEPP14 within Richmond Valley Council.

Acid Sulfate Soils Management Acid sulfate soils do not tend to occur more than one metre above high tide, and tend to be a predominant issue in coastal areas where there is disturbance of these soils. Soil disturbance is a result of land management practices, but impacts tend to be noticed in receiving waters, particularly in the coastal zone. Management of these issues is predominantly guided by ASSMAC (which includes representatives from DEC, DIPNR, DPI, local government and specific industries), in association with councils, land managers and industry sectors (such as the sugar industry). Planning is in place within the Richmond River Local Environmental Plan 1992 to require consent to disturb acid sulfate soils.

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The new CMA has also been allocated additional funding for the 2004-5 financial year. The Richmond will be receiving $90,000 to address acid sulfate soil management

Drainage Network Mapping Project The majority of drainage works on the coastal floodplains of northern NSW were constructed around the turn of the 20th century. Another period of drain expansion followed a decade of major flooding in the 1950s and, with the availability of heavy earthmoving equipment, drain construction and expansion for flood mitigation purposes accelerated during the 1960s and 1970s. The primary stated objective of these drains was flood mitigation, but the opportunity was taken to increase their land drainage function. Drains were extended, widened and deepened and hundreds of floodgates and other drain control structures were installed. The influence of drains on the management of acid sulfate soils is well documented. They lower local watertables and expose pyritic sediments to oxidation as well as forming a conduit that exports acid, low dissolved oxygen and other acid sulfate products to the estuaries. The former Department of Land and Water Conservation (now Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources) has mapped the location and dimensions of all drains and engineered waterways within the coastal floodplains of Northern NSW, from Tweed Heads to Nabiac. It also collated all available information (from NSW Fisheries, local councils and other local reports) on the drain control structures (such as weirs, culverts and other structures that significantly inhibit tidal flow or fish passage) into a comprehensive database that includes digital images, which accompany each map. The maps and data allow determination of drainage density, intensity, origin and degree of connectivity; location, number, size and condition of floodgates and other structures; floodgate and drain ownership; and the extent of drainage networks associated with known acid discharges. Data from this mapping has not been supplied to Council for preparation of this report, however, the mapping will be acquired by Council in the future.

NSW Waterways NSW Waterways has responsibility for the management of ports and harbours in coastal and marine waters. NPWS plays a role in managing marine park areas. NSW Lands has an important role in the management of coastal Crown Lands. There are also a range of State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs) which affect coastal areas, and these include SEPP 14 - Coastal Wetlands and SEPP71 – Coastal Protection. Community involvement may occur through programs such as catchment management (CMA), Coastcare, Fishcare, the Marine and Coastal Community

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Network, estuary and coastal management committees, conservation groups and resident action groups.

Evans River Estuary Management Plan/Study The Evans River Estuary & Coastal Management Study/Plan was prepared in accordance with the New South Wales Government Estuary Management Manual. to develop an integrated, balanced and ecologically sustainable use of the Evans River estuary and incorporating Rocky Mouth Creek. Both a Data Compilation Study and Evans River Estuary Processes Study were completed followed by the preparation and adoption of the Evans River Estuary Management Plan. The estuary management plan identified 34 specific management objectives which cover habitat conservation, water quality, river flow, sedimentation, cultural significance, recreational attributes, future development potential, and educational opportunities. Forty-three options were formulated to address the 34 objectives. Through an assessment process that considered cost, effectiveness, impacts and social acceptability, the best 24 options were identified, and have been incorporated into a long term management plan for the river.

Evans Head Coastal Crown Reserves Plan of Management Council has engaged GHD Consulting to undertake the preparation of a single plan of management that will incorporate all of the coastal Crown lands, that line the coast and foreshore at Evans Head, and address coastal hazards. The plan will address the Crown lands management under the Crown Lands Act and coastal hazards management under the NSW Government’s Coastline Management Manual. This plan is expected to be completed within 2006.

Recovery Plans Refer to Chapter 5 – Biodiversity for further information on recovery plans.

Floodgate Management The Richmond River County Council Flood Mitigation Authority have been implementing and monitoring floodgate management strategies for a number of years. Strategies include:

the opening of gates to flushing, particularly in tidal reaches, thus improving biodiversity of drains, minimise weed growth, neutralise acid

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discharges, and reduce the number of fish kill incidents from deoxygenated waters

empowerment of local land-owners to open and close gates the strategic opening of gates once floodwaters have receded monitoring of water quality particularly following incidents such as fish

kills, and researching best practice for managing acid sulfate soils drainage and

alternative floodgate designs. At Bagotville, the controlled tidal flushing program is reducing water acidification from acid sulfate soils runoff with the result of enhancing water quality, aquatic biodiversity, fish passage and the control of aquatic weed infestations. ASS management at Haughwoods Canal is using an in-drain weir to control ground water inflow and reduce acid entering the drain.

Figure 3.15 - Aerial view of the Bagotville Barrage, Tuckean Broadwater Swamp.

Photo: Richard Hagley (DIPNR)

Figure 3.16 - Opening of Bagotville Barrage to tidal flashing by John Aquilina, Minister for the

Department of Land and Water Conservation.

New Research Project in Lower Bungawalbyn

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A new research project is underway on a grazing property in the lower Bungawalbyn. Scott Henderson is a PhD student from Southern Cross University and is working with property manager, Shane Davies, to find ways of reducing the impacts of acid sulfate soils and enhance a healthy grass cover. Scott, together with representatives from DIP-Agriculture and Southern Cross University, is monitoring the groundwater, which is seen as a key management factor. Drain and groundwater levels, soil moisture content, acidity and metals (such as aluminium and iron) are also being monitored and tested. All these elements are found in the runoff from acid sulfate soils. The research team also inspected surface deposits of Schwertmanite, which is a iron mineral associated with acid runoff. The mineral forms in very acidic conditions and, as a surface deposit, is readily available source of acid that washes into waterways in rainfall periods. The project is also linking in with a controlled tidal flushing program to improve water quality which is being done in cooperation with Richmond River County Council’s floodplain committee.

Landholder Committees to Help With Water Quality Water quality is a major issue in the Richmond estuary. Richmond River County Council formed special committees of council were formed for landholders who are involved in the programs to improve water quality and provide fish passage. These committees assist by opening and closing the specially designed slide gates that are attached to the main floodgate. The slide gate allows a controlled amount of river water into tidal flush drains and canals which have poor water quality. In some systems flows have been reinstated into old creek channels, with the result of enhancing fish habitat and the creek system as a whole. Currently there are fourteen floodgated systems on the Richmond estuary, ranging from very large such as the Tuckean and Rocky Mouth Creek systems, to much smaller systems. The committees are set up under Section 355 of the 1993 Local Government Act which allows for certain activities to be undertaken with councils consent. Each floodgate has a management plan which details when the gate is opened or closed.

In-Drain Weirs Tested at Haughwoods Canal Monitoring continues at Haughwood Canal, where landowners have adopted a range of strategies to manage the areas acid sulfate soils. One key strategy is to impede acidic groundwater leaking into the drainage system by maintaining drain water levels with small weirs.

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Two in-drain weirs installed last August have had their first real trial after heavy rainfall early this year. Results show that they successfully impeded the drainage of acidic groundwater into the system with obvious iron flocking occurring below the weirs where water wasn’t held back and none present above. The permeability of local peat soils was once again evident with a perfect seal impossible to achieve with the weirs. The hydrologic conductivity of the local soils has been recorded as extreme with water able to move up to 100m a day towards the drain with the right head pressure and gradient. The Department of Primary Industries will continue to monitor water quality and investigate whether the weirs can be improved further.

Finetuning at Boggy Creek Monitoring by the Department of Primary Industries has shown that acid runoff enters Boggy Creek through two main pathways. The deep peat soils at Boggy Creek are very permeable and have high risk acid sulfate soils, this can allow acidic products to move freely through the soil. If surface water is left ponded after heavy rain, acidic products can accumulate at or near the soil surface as well as acidifying the standing water. Acidic products left on the soil surface can oxidise when water levels drop, creating scalds and stunting plant growth. Acidic runoff also enters Boggy Creek by groundwater leaking into drains. If the water level in the drain drops below that of the groundwater in the nearby paddock, acidic groundwater can easy leak into the system. Landowners and the Department of Primary Industries are designing strategies that will allow for the quick removal of surface water, but preventing the drainage of acidic groundwater. This is likely to include operating floodgates in conjunction with low tides after heavy rain and maintaining drain water levels afterwards with an in-drain weir and dropboards. Lower Dungarubba Creek Restoration Project There is a the restoration project at Dungarubba Creek. The Creek was floodgated from the river 30 years ago to protect agricultural lands and houses from main river flooding. Unfortunately the lower creek system started to infill and aquatic weeds choked the lower four kilometers of the creek channel. Local landholders began to flush river water through the floodgates in an attempt to clear the weeds. They had some success but lobbied state and local government for assistance. Through their persistence a project was developed with Richmond River County Council, the Natural Heritage Trust’s ‘Interim Bid’, CMA, DIPNR and NSWF. The project will see the reinstatement of tidal flows, improve water quality, reduce weeds and enhance aquatic biodiversity. DPIF will be undertaking a fish survey once the works are completed. The second stage of the project will seek funding for riparian restoration.

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(see Inland Waters section also).

Coastline Management Manual This Manual was introduced in 1990 regarding the management of coastline hazards. It introduced a range of planning and structural measures which provide for:

the establishment of a statewide management system which requires balanced management of the coastline,

control of potential losses in new development through the application of effective planning controls designed to ensure that the development is compatible with the hazards,

a reduction in the impact of hazards on existing developed areas through the construction of protective works and/or the voluntary purchase of property at equitable prices, and

the construction of beach improvements works to protect or enhance the recreational amenity of the State’s most heavily used beaches and their associated sand dune systems.

Other Policies Other policies which impact upon coastal areas include the State Rivers and Estuaries Policy, Estuary Management Policy, and NSW Wetlands Policy.

Water Quality Monitoring Stream watch Streamwatch is a dynamic environmental action network, educating and empowering communities to work together for healthy catchments. Primary schools, high schools and community groups participate in the Streamwatch program. Streamwatch encourages cooperation between schools, community groups, local government, Catchment Management Boards and Catchment Trusts, government agencies and non-government organisations to ensure that everyone plays a role in keeping our waterways clean and healthy.

Richmond River Salinity Richmond River County Council monitors weekly salinity levels in the mid Richmond River at Coraki, Swan Bay, Rocky Mouth Creek, Woodburn and Kilgin. Higher saltier periods are noteable during dry spells. Salinity levels can be seen in the Northern Star’s Rural section each Thursday. Refer to discussion of this program in Chapter 2 – Inland Waters

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Other Strategies ⇒ Holistic beach/dune management plans (DNREAP) ⇒ Management strategies dealing with opening of coastal lagoons and estuaries

(DNREAP) ⇒ Develop sustainable management plans for each fishery (DNREAP) ⇒ Identification of ‘no go’ zones for both recreational and commercial fishing

(DNREAP) ⇒ Audit of current/zoned coastal development used as a basis to initiate concepts on

absolute limit on land developed (DNREAP) ⇒ Inventory of the status of estuarine communities with management options

(DNREAP) ⇒ Rotational harvesting systems and fishing closures based on impacts of marine

harvesting (DNREAP) ⇒ Rehabilitation of wetlands, estuarine systems and other habitat (DNREAP) ⇒ Education on flood mitigation and structures; the breeding cycles, habitat and

ecology of aquatic species; riverine environment; wetland ecology; sustainable fishing practice; and bag and size limits (DNREAP, TCMS, RCMS, CCMV)

⇒ Dune stabilisation/erosion control works designed as far as possible using ‘soft’ engineering techniques (DNREAP)

⇒ Control human recreational impacts through fencing, signs, board and chain access, carparks etc (DNREAP)

⇒ Community education about coastal processes and hazards and their management (DNREAP)