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10-Mar-2015 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 922 315 Indra Australia Pty Ltd 10-Mar-2015 Species Management Plan Hann Tableland Transportable Radar Project

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Page 1: Species Management Plan - Department of the … Species Management Plan 10-Mar-2015 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 922 315 Species Management Plan Hann Tableland

10-Mar-2015Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 922 315

Indra Australia Pty Ltd10-Mar-2015

Species ManagementPlanHann Tableland Transportable Radar Project

Page 2: Species Management Plan - Department of the … Species Management Plan 10-Mar-2015 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 922 315 Species Management Plan Hann Tableland

AECOM Species Management Plan

10-Mar-2015Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 922 315

Species Management PlanHann Tableland Transportable Radar Project

Client: Indra Australia Pty Ltd

ABN: 28 091 922 315

Prepared byAECOM Australia Pty LtdLevel 8, 540 Wickham Street, PO Box 1307, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, AustraliaT +61 7 3553 2000 F +61 7 3553 2050 www.aecom.comABN 20 093 846 925

10-Mar-2015

Job No.: 60318570

AECOM in Australia and New Zealand is certified to the latest version of ISO9001, ISO14001, AS/NZS4801 and OHSAS18001.

© AECOM Australia Pty Ltd (AECOM). All rights reserved.

AECOM has prepared this document for the sole use of the Client and for a specific purpose, each as expressly stated in the document. No otherparty should rely on this document without the prior written consent of AECOM. AECOM undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to anythird party who may rely upon or use this document. This document has been prepared based on the Client’s description of its requirements andAECOM’s experience, having regard to assumptions that AECOM can reasonably be expected to make in accordance with sound professionalprinciples. AECOM may also have relied upon information provided by the Client and other third parties to prepare this document, some of whichmay not have been verified. Subject to the above conditions, this document may be transmitted, reproduced or disseminated only in its entirety.

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AECOM Species Management Plan

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Quality InformationDocument Species Management Plan

Ref

60318570

p:\603x\60318570\8. issued docs\8.1 reports\hanntableland\transportable\cemp\60318570_species management plan_10 april2015.docx

Date 10-Mar-2015

Prepared by Mark Barnett

Reviewed by Gillian Turner

Revision History

Revision RevisionDate Details

Authorised

Name/Position Signature

A 09-Feb-2015 Draft Mark BarnettProject Manager

-

B 25-Mar-2015 Client Comments Addressed Mark BarnettProject Manager

-

C 10-Apr-2015 Project Timeframes Edited Mark BarnettProject Manager

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AECOM Species Management Plan

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Table of ContentsCross Reference: Department of Environment and Heritage Protection Species Management Plan Guideline ii1.0 Introduction 1

1.1 Objective and Performance Indicators 11.2 Proponent and Project Description 2

2.0 Legislation and Regulatory Framework 32.1 Commonwealth and State Legislation 32.2 Non-statutory Listings 3

3.0 Species Information 44.0 Project Activities 115.0 Management and Control Strategies 126.0 Compliance Management 21

6.1 Roles and Responsibilities 216.1.1 Construction Phase 216.1.2 Operational Phase 21

6.2 Training 216.3 Inspections and Monitoring 22

6.3.1 Establishing Pre-clearing Condition 226.3.2 Post-clearing Monitoring 226.3.3 Inspections 22

6.4 Reporting 226.5 Corrective Actions 22

7.0 Resourcing 237.1 Specialist Resources 23

8.0 References 24

Attachment AIdentifying Cane Toads A

Attachment BApproved Methods of Cane Toad Euthanasia B

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Glossary

Abbreviation Description

AQF Australian Qualifications Framework

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

dB(A) A-weighted decibels

DoE Department of Environment (Commonwealth)

EAR Environmental Assessment Report

EHP Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (Queensland)

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

EVNT Endangered, Vulnerable and Near Threatened

FIA Flora Impact Assessment

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature

MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance

NC Act Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Queensland)

SMP Species Management Plan

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Cross Reference: Department of Environment and HeritageProtection Species Management Plan GuidelineThis Species Management Plan has been prepared to meet the requirements of the Department of Environmentand Heritage Protection’s Guideline: Developing a species management program (the Guideline). The Guidelinedescribes the minimum requirements for the development of a species management program to meetrequirements of an ‘approved species management program’ under the Nature Conservation (WildlifeManagement) Regulation 2006. This Species Management Plan has been prepared voluntarily, enabling theproponent to demonstrate a level of management commensurate with the potential risks to fauna speciesprotected by the Commonwealth and State of Queensland.

The following table is a cross reference between the requirements of the Guideline and the content of this SpeciesManagement Plan.

Item Information Required Document Section

Scope

1. Applicant Provide applicant’s legal name, ACN/ABN ifapplicable, registered address, contact details.

Refer to Table 2

2. Organisational Summary Provide a summary of the applicant organisation,including its objectives and scope of activities.

Refer to Table 2

3. Activity Outline the activities that will occur for which thisapproval is required, including, if applicable, theauthority by which the activities are undertaken.

Refer to Table 2

4. Applicable Species Describe the species or classes of wildlife to whichthe program applies.

Refer to Table 2 andSection 3.0

Terms

1. Term of Approval State for what period you wish the SMP to remainvalid.

Refer to Table 2

2. Approved Parties List the parties that are to be approved to operateunder the program.

Refer to Table 2

Impacts

1. Impacts Describe how the activity may impact on animalbreeding places, including how particular species ofconcern may be impacted.

Refer to Section 4.0and Table 5

2. Assessment Outline the methods of assessment and analysisand research undertaken to evaluate the potentialimpacts of activities on animal breeding places.

Refer to Section 4.0

Management

1. Management Actions Outline the proposed actions to be taken to managethe impacts of activities on animal breeding places.

Refer to Section 5.0

2. Responsibilities Identify who in the organisation is responsible forensuring that each action is carried out inaccordance with the program.

Refer to Section 6.1

3. Qualified Persons Identify areas of the program that will requirespecialist or qualified people to undertake activities.

Refer to Section 7.1

4. Contingency Planning Outline a process to be followed in the event ofunexpected impacts on other protected wildlife.

Refer to Section 6.5

Monitoring

1. Establishing Pre-ClearingCondition

Detail how baseline data was/will be collected toallow assessment of success of SMP.

Refer to Section 5.0

2. Post-Clearing Monitoring Detail proposed monitoring to evaluate success of Refer to Section 6.3

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Item Information Required Document Section

management strategies. Specify the period overwhich monitoring is to occur.

Reporting

1. Reporting Outline the proposed reporting regime that will allowEHP to evaluate impacts on species and success orotherwise of management strategies.

Refer to Section 6.4

Miscellaneous

1. Legislative Framework Detail any legislation relevant to the operation of theSMP.

Refer to Section 2.0

2. Definitions/Glossary Descriptions of meanings within the document Refer to Glossary

3. Contact Details Provide contact details, including at a local/regionallevel if applicable. EHP will provide relevant contactdetails for EHP officers.

Refer to Table 2

4. References List references used in development of SMP,including consultation with experts.

Refer to Section 8.0

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1.0 IntroductionThis Species Management Plan (SMP) has been prepared for the Hann Tableland Transportable Radar Project(the Project) in response to the potential presence of the Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) within andadjacent to the Project site. Desktop and field habitat assessments conducted as part of the EnvironmentalAssessment Report (EAR, AECOM 2014a) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA, AECOM 2014b)identified suitable microhabitat for the Northern Quoll in the vicinity of the site, as well as confirmed records withinthe broader region. Through these assessments, the Northern Quoll has been identified as potentially beingimpacted by the works.

A number of additional threatened fauna species (Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threatened) with the potentialto occur in the Hann Tableland region have also been identified through the EAR and EIA assessments (Table 1).These species have not been identified as being impacted by the works, however this SMP will be used tomanage any potential adverse impacts that may arise on these fauna species as a result of the Project.

The intention of this SMP is to be used by the contractor, in combination with the Construction EnvironmentalManagement Plan (CEMP), to minimise the likelihood of the Project impacting on the Northern Quoll and otherthreatened fauna species. This SMP should be treated as a living document, to be revised and/or amended asrequired to accurately reflect changing on-ground conditions and fauna management measures.

Table 1 Threatened fauna species that have potential to occur in proximity of the Project

Common Name Scientific Name Commonwealth Status1 State Status2

Australian swiftlet Aerodramus terraereginae - NT

Red goshawk Erythrotriorchis radiatus V E

Masked owl (northern) Tyto novaehollandiae kimberli V V

Northern Quoll Dasyurus hallucatus E -

Diadem leaf-nosed bat Hipposideros diadema reginae - NT

Robust burrowing snake Antaioserpens warro - NT

White-bellied sea eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster Ma, Mi -

White-throated needletail Hirundapus caudacutus Ma, Mi -

Rainbow bee-eater Merops ornatus Ma, Mi -

Black-faced monarch Monarcha melanopsis Ma, Mi -

Spectacled monarch Symposiachrus trivirgatus Ma, Mi -

Satin flycatcher Myiagra cyanoleuca Ma, Mi -

Rufous fantail Rhipidura rufifrons Ma, Mi -

Fork-tailed swift Apus pacificus Ma, Mi -Notes: E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, NT = Near Threatened, Ma = Marine, Mi = Migratory

1. Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1992.

2. Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.

1.1 Objective and Performance IndicatorsThe objective of this SMP is to maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of theNorthern Quoll in the Hann Tableland region through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts. Theintention of this SMP is to guide the management and undertaking of the Project in a manner that will result in nolong-term detrimental impact to Northern Quoll or its habitat.

The following performance indicators have been set for the management of impacts on terrestrial fauna during thelife of the Project:- No loss of threatened species (individuals or populations) as a consequence of Project works.

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- Successful translocation of threatened species prior to and during construction.

- Minimise impacts to non-threatened species within the wider Project site.

- The identification and assessment of all fauna habitat features (e.g. hollow bearing trees) prior to clearingwith appropriate mitigation measures implemented.

- No infringements or non-compliances of regulatory or legislative requirements relevant to terrestrial fauna forthe Project.

1.2 Proponent and Project DescriptionSummarised details of the proponent (applicant), planned activity and timeframes of the works are provided in Table 2,in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection’s Guideline: Developinga species management program.

Table 2 Proponent and project description

Applicant / Proponent

Airservices Australia

ABN: 59 698 720 886

Alan Woods Building25 Constitution AvenueCanberra ACT 2600GPO Box 367Canberra ACT 2601

OrganisationalSummary

Airservices is a corporate Commonwealth entity providing safe, secure,efficient and environmentally responsible services to the aviation industry.

Activity This SMP covers the design, construction, operation, maintenance,decommissioning and rehabilitation phases of a new transportablenavigational radar located on the Hann Tableland, Mareeba, Queensland.

Applicable Species Refer to Section 3.0.

Term of Approval This SMP will apply for the whole life cycle of the Hann TablelandTransportable Radar, which is expected to be an approximate 18 monthperiod starting in April 2015.

Approved Parties ERRP Delivery Manager: Indra Australia Pty Ltd

Principal Contractor: TBC

Sub-contractors: TBC

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2.0 Legislation and Regulatory Framework

2.1 Commonwealth and State LegislationIndra is obliged to comply with all relevant environmental Commonwealth and State legislation. Legislationpertaining to fauna management in Queensland and of relevance to this Project is summarised in Table 3.Table 3 Commonwealth and State Legislation relating to threatened fauna species

Legislation Application

Environment Protection and BiodiversityConservation Act 1999

Protection of matters of national environmental significance(MNES).

In its unmitigated form, the Project has the potential to impact onsuitable habitat for the Northern Quoll. However, withimplementation of appropriate design considerations and suitablemitigation measures, impacts on Northern Quoll and its habitat arenot expected to be significant and the Project would likely bedeemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’ by the Department of Environment(DoE). Therefore the Project, with mitigation measuresimplemented, does not warrant referral under the EPBC Act.

The proposed works are unlikely to significantly impact otherpopulations of Commonwealth-listed EVNT within the region oradjacent to the site and access track.

Nature Conservation Act 1992

AND

Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulations2006

The Northern Quoll is not listed as a threatened species(Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threated) under the QueenslandNature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006. However, all nativeanimals are protected in Queensland regardless of their threatenedstatus. Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act), it isunlawful to kill, injure or otherwise take protected wildlife withoutapproval, unless the taking is accidental.

2.2 Non-statutory ListingsThe Northern Quoll is ranked as a medium priority species under the Queensland Department of Environment andHeritage Protection (EHP) ‘Back on Track’ species prioritisation framework. Back on Track species prioritisationframework is designed to prioritise all species, regardless of their current classification under the NC Act or theEPBC Act. Species are prioritised using multiple criteria, to allow the identification of species that are in trouble,and those which have the greatest chance of recovery. Listing of the Northern Quoll as a Back on Track specieshas no statutory consequence for this Project.

The Northern Quoll is also listed as ‘Endangered’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature andNatural Resources (IUCN) Red List of threatened species. A species’ listing on the IUCN Red List has nostatutory consequence in Australia.

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3.0 Species InformationFourteen threated species have been identified in the EAR (AECOM 2014a) as having potential to occur inproximity to the Project. However, only one of these species, the Northern Quoll, is considered susceptible toimpacts by the Project. This section provides a brief summary to the Northern Quoll and its characteristics. Apictorial guide to the other thirteen threatened species which may be encountered in close proximity to the Projectsite has also been provided.Table 4 Species information for the Northern Quoll

Scientific Name Dasyurus hallucatus

Common Name Northern Quoll

Other CommonNames

Little Northern Native Cat, Satanellus, North Australian Native Cat

Status EPBC Act (Commonwealth): Endangered

NC Act (Queensland): Least Concern

Description The Northern Quoll is the smallest of the four Australian quoll species. It has a pointy snoutand reddish brown fur, with a cream underside. It has white spots on its back and rump anda long, sparsely-furred, unspotted tail (Oakwood 2008). The tail length ranges between 202and 345 mm. The hindfeet have striated pads and five toes (Oakwood 2008). NorthernQuolls can weigh up to 1.2 kg, with the males (usually between 400 to 900g) (Braithwaite &Begg 1995) being larger than the females (usually 300 to 500g) (Braithwaite & Begg 1995,TSSC 2005). It is the most arboreal and aggressive of the four quoll species, and its faecesand body smell strongly (Braithwaite & Begg 1995).

Figure 1 Northern Quoll. Photo – Craig Ward (Hill & Ward, 2010)

Habitat The Northern Quoll occupies a diversity of habitats across its range which includes rockyareas, eucalypt forest and woodlands, rainforests, sandy lowlands and beaches,shrubland, grasslands and desert (Oakwood 2008). Rocky habitats are usually of highrelief, often rugged and dissected. Eucalypt forest or woodland habitats usually have a highstructural diversity containing large diameter trees, termite mounds or hollow logs fordenning purposes. Dens are made in rock crevices, tree holes or occasionally termitemounds (TSSC 2005). Northern Quolls appear to be most abundant in habitats within 150km of the coast (Braithwaite & Begg 1995).

Recent surveys throughout Queensland have suggested Northern Quolls are more likely tobe present in high relief areas that have shallower soils, greater cover of boulders, less fireimpact and were closer to permanent water (Woinarski et al. 2008).

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Figure 2 Indicative distribution map for the Northern Quoll (DoE, 2015)

Feeding Northern Quolls are opportunistic omnivores, consuming a wide range of prey includingbeetles, grasshoppers, spiders, scorpions and centipedes. They also eat fruit, nectar, andare known to feed on carrion and human refuse.

Vertebrates eaten include 11 species of mammal (e.g. bandicoots, sugar gliders, brush-tailpossums and rats), eight species of birds (e.g. Brown Quail), reptiles (skinks and snakes)and seven species of frog. They also eat bird eggs and nectar of eucalypt and grevilleaflowers (Oakwood 2008). Northern Quolls will also scavenge from road kills and garbagebins (Oakwood 2008).

Frogs are eaten regularly in the wet season with at least seven species taken, includinglarge native frogs such as the Green Tree Frog (Litoria caerulea) and the Giant Frog(Cyclorana australis). As Cane Toads have moved into the Northern Quoll's range, theyhave also been added to the diet of the Northern Quoll (Threatened Species ScientificCommittee 2005aq).

Life Cycle Northern Quolls have short life spans, with males living for approximately one year and theoldest recorded female in the wild being three years of age (TSSC 2005).

Northern Quolls breed once each year, bearing on average seven young which are bornafter a gestation of 21–26 days (Oakwood 2008). Females wean two to three young whichbecome reproductively mature at 11 months (Oakwood 2008).

The breeding season occurs in mid-dry season, from late May to early June. Young are leftin the den when they are eight to nine weeks old, in late August or September (Braithwaite& Begg 1995), whilst the mother forages at night (Oakwood 1997 in Oakwood 2000).Juveniles are weaned at 6 months old, in November to early December.

The majority of male Northern Quolls die after their first breeding season. This male die-offin combination with the fact females usually breed only once makes local populationshighly vulnerable to extinction.

Key Threats · Lethal toxic ingestion caused by Cane Toads (Rhinella marina)

· Removal, degradation and fragmentation of habitat

· Inappropriate fire regimes

· Weeds, particularly Gamba Grass (Andropogon gayanus)

· Feral predators (i.e. Feral Cat, European Red Fox etc.)

· Parasitism

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Australian Swiftlet(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Near Threatened (NC Act)

Red Goshawk(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Endangered (NC Act), Vulnerable (EPBC Act)

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Masked Owl (northern)(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Vulnerable (EPBC Act)

Diadem Leaf-nosed Bat(Churchill 2008)

Status: Near Threatened (NC Act)

Robust BurrowingSnake

(Wilson 2010)

Status: Near Threatened (NC Act)

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White-bellied Sea Eagle(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

White-throatedNeedletail

(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

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Rainbow Bee-eater(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

Black-faced Monarch(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

Spectacled Monarch(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

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Satin Flycatcher(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

Rufous Fantail(Pizzey 2010)

Fork-tailed Swift(Pizzey 2010)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

Status: Least Concern (NC Act), Migratory (EPBC Act)

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4.0 Project ActivitiesThere are a number of risks or threats associated with the Design, Clearing, Construction, Operation andDecommissioning of the Project, which are of particular importance to the Northern Quoll, but also apply to allfauna species. Specifically for the Northern Quoll, the key threats are:

- cane toads

- habitat loss and fragmentation

- fire

- weeds (specifically gamba grass)

As part of each stage of the Project, these risks or threats are identified as well as their potential impact on theNorthern Quoll (Table 5). Management measures for each of these threats are then provided in Section 5.0.

Table 5 Project activities, risks and potential impacts to threatened species

Project Activity Risk/threat Potential Impacts

Design Habitat loss - Reduced extent and quality of suitablehabitat.

Habitat fragmentation

Exacerbated cane toad invasion

Site Clearing andEstablishment

Habitat loss (inhabited and uninhabited) - Injury or death to individuals.- Reduced extent and quality of suitable

habitat.- Increased rates of illness or mortality

amongst the local Northern Quollpopulation.

Habitat fragmentation

Weed introduction

Weed spread (specifically gamba grass)

Exacerbated pest species invasion (canetoads, feral cats, foxes, rats etc.)

Construction Works Dust generation - Decline in population health.- Disturbance of life cycle (breeding,

weaning etc.)- Reduced extent and quality of suitable

habitat.- Reduction in population abundance.

Noise and vibration generation

Fuel and chemical spills

Loss of waste materials (inert, putrescibleand hazardous)Bushfire - Loss of denning habitat

- Increased risk of predationVehicular Movements Vehicular strike - Injury or death to individuals.

- Reduced extent and quality of suitablehabitat.Weed introduction

Weed spread

Operation Weed spread - Reduced extent and quality of suitablehabitat.

Decommissioning Weed introduction - Reduced extent and quality of suitablehabitat.

Weed spread

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5.0 Management and Control StrategiesTable 6 Management actions for the avoidance of impacts to threatened species

Risk Project Phase Management Action(s)

Habitat loss and fragmentation Design Reduce habitat loss and fragmentation by consolidation of project infrastructure to minimisefootprint of development and extent of reductive pruning.

Pre-construction Clearly mark out the extent of clearing with orange paint or flagging tape.

Clearing is to be restricted to the footprint of the radar compound and immediate surroundingbuffer area. All other vegetation is to be pruned only.

Identify stockpile locations for retaining soil and vegetation for rehabilitation purposes. Ideallythese should be previously cleared areas, so that no additional vegetation is disturbed.

Location of stockpiles should not alter, or be placed in, natural drainage areas.

Designated stockpile areas should be identified and communicated to all site personnel.

A pre-clearing survey is to be conducted by a suitably qualified ecologist to identify fauna andhabitat features (e.g. tree hollows or logs) that may be impacted by clearing and earthworks.

Habitat values must be identified in advance of clearing commencing, to enable habitatfeatures to be relocated.

Construction Tree hollows are to be retained in situ wherever possible. If not possible, tree hollows are tobe cut out of the cleared tree and relocated as follows:

a) A natural tree hollow shall need no modification prior to relocation, i.e. the saw cutshall be made after the extent of the hollow. The length of the hollow shall be aminimum of 400 mm and a maximum of 1,000 mm long.

b) The Contractor, in liaison with a qualified ecologist, shall select suitable host treesfor the relocation of hollows. The host trees shall be mature, in good health, and willbe part of the same area of vegetation.

c) Hollows shall be mounted vertically or as close as possible to their originalorientation. Hollows shall be mounted a minimum of 5 m from ground level or at asimilar height and angle to where it was in the original tree. The aperture shall befaced away from prevailing weather to reduce entry of rain.

d) The hollow shall be attached to the host tree at bifurcations of a suitable height. Thehollow shall be attached by means of two 6.3 mm galvanized chains bolted to theeither side of the log with 7.6 x 90 mm galvanized coach bolts and washers. Thechains shall be wrapped around the host tree above the bifurcation and joined using

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Risk Project Phase Management Action(s)

a galvanized "D" shackle.e) The hollow shall be attached to the host tree at bifurcations of a suitable height. The

hollow shall be attached by means of two 6.3 mm galvanized chains bolted to theeither side of the log with 7.6 x 90 mm galvanized coach bolts and washers. Thechains shall be wrapped around the host tree above the bifurcation and joined usinga galvanized "D" shackle.

f) The location of installed hollows shall be recorded using approved GPS equipment.

Restrict clearing of canopy trees to the minimum required to establish the transportable radarsite and surrounding buffer area. Clearing of canopy trees must be undertaken in accordancewith the methods specified in the CEMP.

Selected logs and branches from the cleared trees are to be stockpiled in designatedstockpile areas for use in rehabilitation.Groundcover vegetation (grasses, shrubs etc.), if free of weeds, is to be push-cleared byexcavator bucket or equivalent into stockpiles in designated stockpile areas for use inrehabilitation.Rock, topsoil and subsoil should be stockpiled separately in designated stockpile areas.

Weed hygiene and erosion control must be maintained for soil stockpiles (e.g. appropriatelycovered with weighted tarp).Pruning of canopy trees is to be undertaken in preference to clearing, where appropriate.

Reductive pruning is not to proceed until a pre-clearance survey of trees to be pruned hasbeen conducted by an ecologist.Reductive pruning to provide a clear radar critical zone is to be conducted after the radartower has been constructed to verify the height that trees are to be reduced to. Pruning is tobe undertaken by a suitably qualified arborist.Reductive pruning may only occur in September-October or January-April to minimisepossible impacts to Northern Quoll.Stockpiled vegetation will provide temporary habitat to herpetofauna (reptiles) and ground-dwelling mammals whilst the radar is in operation. Vegetative material (if free from weeds)will be pulled back across the site during rehabilitation works.If material is required to be imported to site (i.e. for use as road base etc.), the material must

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be obtained from an appropriately licensed source and be accompanied with a WeedHygiene Declaration (refer to Weed Management Plan in Appendix D of the CEMP).

Reinstatement The period of time between removal of infrastructure from the site and restoration of the sitearea will be minimised to prevent loss of soils and weed incursion.All disturbed land will be rehabilitated to achieve stable and sustainable conditions of soilcover and vegetation.A decision is to be made prior to the reinstatement phase on the fate of the transportableradar’s concrete foundations. Option analysis must consider the environmental risks to thesite and surrounding area. The preferred option must not require heavy machinery orgeneration of excessive noise and vibration. The option of leaving and burying the concreteslab with native material should be considered.

Original stockpiled materials will be re-spread across the site in the following order:

1. Subsoil2. Topsoil3. Rock4. Vegetation

The construction area will be re-profiled to original or stable contours, re-establishing surfacedrainage lines and other land features. Site specific stabilisation measures may be necessaryto prevent slumping or erosion.Where possible, temporary erosion control measures will be left in place until bare soil hasstabilised, i.e. rock and other natural material dragged over as cover, vegetation cover hasre-established etc.

Fauna fatalities and encounters Pre-construction All site personnel to be introduced, through the site induction, to protected fauna that havepotential to be encountered across the site (refer to Section 3.0).Site induction shall include training in the following:

a) Impairment or killing of native fauna may incur penalties.

b) Information will be provided in relation to protected and/or dangerous fauna which maybe encountered on site, i.e. venomous snakes.

c) Only designated and trained personnel are allowed to handle and remove fauna.

Construction A pre-clearance survey, by an ecologist, of the footprint of vegetation clearing is to be

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conducted prior to clearing commencing.

Site clearing works are not to be undertaken immediately after heavy rainfall.

All clearing will be undertaken in the presence of a spotter-catcher.

Clearing will be undertaken in a sequential manner to allow any Northern Quoll, or otherfauna species present, sufficient time and space to move out of the area of their own accord,rather than being forcefully moved.Any animal requiring care or treatment will be immediately transported to a veterinarian orlicenced wildlife carer.If any threatened fauna species are spotted during construction, work will cease in theimmediate vicinity of the sighting until they have moved off or a suitable qualified spotter-catcher called in to remove them. The fauna spotter-catcher will provide a suitable record tothe Site Supervisor.Any impacts to fauna are to be reported to Airservices within 24 hours of occurrence.

Operation, Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Any animal requiring care or treatment will be immediately transported to a veterinarian orlicenced wildlife carer. The fauna spotter-catcher will provide a suitable record to the SiteSupervisor.Any impacts to fauna are to be reported to Airservices within 24 hours of occurrence.

Exacerbated pest species invasion (canetoads, feral cats, foxes, rats etc.)

Design Avoid, where possible, inclusion of any water retaining voids or pits in the design. Where pitsand voids are required, include appropriate cover to prevent water retention in these spacesand/or subsequent breeding opportunities for cane toads.

Where covering of pits and voids is not practicable, fencing to exclude access by cane toadsshould be incorporated into the design. Sediment fencing, free standing or attached to thebase of other fencing material, has proven to be effective.Wash down and laydown areas should be designed to include cane toad traps whereexclusion from areas of potential water retention is not practicable.

Cane toad traps can be easily constructed using designs available athttp://cart.frogwatch.org.au/index.cfm?attributes.fuseaction=shop&goto=trap.Design of the compound fence should consider the need to exclude feral pigs from the radarsite. Since feral pigs are large, robust animals reaching up to 115 kg in size, fences must beequally robust to exclude them.

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Pigs are known to pass through plain wire fences, usually between the wires at snout level.Increased resistance can be achieved by using prefabricated fences with small mesh sizese.g. 150 mm vertical wire spacing or wire netting.

Although pigs will preferentially pass through fences, they will also push under them usingexisting holes or rooting out soft earth beneath the fence if necessary. Consequently, thereshould be little or no gap between the base of the fence and the ground.Design is to be reviewed by Airservices’ Environmental Specialist to ensure appropriateconsideration has been given for cane toad mitigation and exclusion of other pest species.

Construction, Operation,Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Prior to delivery to site, all equipment and materials are to be deemed free of pests (rodents,toads etc.). As a minimum, this requires 48hrs quarantine in a designated ‘weed free’ area.To avoid establishing a quarantine area close to site, staged delivery and double handling ofequipment and materials, the regional depot (i.e. Cairns) should be considered for use as the‘quarantine area’ in the first instance. Alternative arrangements must be agreed byAirservices prior to implementation.Any suspected cane toads encountered or captured on site should be confirmed as beingcane toads. Methods of identifying cane toads are detailed in Attachment A of this SMP.Any live cane toads encountered on site or captured in traps should be killed humanely. TheRSPCA acknowledges two methods of humanely killing Cane Toads which are appropriatefor use on this Project (Sharp et al., 2011). Accepted methods are detailed in Attachment Bof this SMP.Any shallow depressions left in substrate as a result of clearing, construction or rehabilitationworks to be immediately levelled so as not to encourage water retention and breeding ofcane toads.No alterations to landform, or refuse left exposed, which will specifically assist breedingopportunities for cane toads, feral cats or house mice on site.To reduce the presence of feral animals or other pests, all food scraps must be placed intodesignated waste bins, and their lids securely closed.Bins containing food waste are to be emptied at the end of each day, with contents removedfrom site for disposal in an off-site bin or at an appropriate waste facility.No feeding of fauna on site.

Weed introduction All Implement the Weed Management Plan, included as Appendix D of the CEMP.

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Weed spread All Implement the Weed Management Plan, included as Appendix D of the CEMP.

Dust generation Construction, Operation,Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Secure an off-site, appropriately licensed water source for dust suppression during theconstruction phase.Progressively rehabilitate and / or stabilise disturbed areas.

Immediately clean up material spilt on traffic areas before vehicle movement can disturb it.

Use construction water cart to suppress dust during earthworks.

Where watering is used, monitor the procedure to ensure that there is no surfaceponding/pooling of water.Enforce a maximum speed limit of 40 km/hr along all sealed roads and 20 km/hr on unsealedroads. Personnel will be informed of this requirement during induction.Restrict vehicles to approved access tracks and only those vehicles required for the safe,efficient and essential construction activities will be allowed in the work area.Cover all loose loads for transport to and from the work site.

Maintain stockpiles, for example stripped topsoil, in a condition which prevents windblowndust generation, especially during dry or windy conditions. This may include watering orcovering of stockpiles with a weighed-down tarp.Limit bare earth exposure to that essential to the efficient and effective construction of theasset. Using vegetation cover, mulch covers or other suitable methods will be adopted wherepossible.Rehabilitate or allow natural regeneration of bare areas as soon as the area is no longerneeded for construction.

Noise and vibration generation Construction, Operationand Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Limit construction activities which generate excessive noise to standard working hours fromapproximately 0700 to 1800 (local time) whenever possible. Some limited stages of the workmay require work during non-daylight hours.All construction techniques to minimise vibration at all times. The use of smaller equipmentand minimal excavation is recommended. Equipment that results in significant vibration, e.g.rock drills, rock hammers and vibrators are not be used.

Design and construction of foundations must consider type of machinery and level ofdisturbance for installation and must ensure construction techniques minimise the extent ofexcavation and do not require use of heavy machinery.

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Construction methodologies are to be reviewed following completion of the pre-clearancesurvey, and in accordance with recommendations made by the nominated ecologist.Noise emissions from plant and equipment will be limited to 85 dB(A), where practicable.

Construction activities expected to generate noise levels in excess of 30 dB(A) LAeq,adj,1hr,recorded indoors at the nearest dwelling, must not be conducted between the hours of 10pmand 7am, in accordance with the Environmental Protection (Noise) Policy 2008.Regularly maintain all equipment and vehicles and attend promptly to any loose parts, rattlingcovers, worn bearings and broken components.Ensure all equipment complies with appropriate Australian Standards.

Shut down any equipment generating loud, extraneous (unusual) noise until the source of thenoise can be identified and rectified.

Fuel and chemical spills Construction, Operationand Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Introduce all construction personnel to spill management procedures and use of the spill kitduring the site induction.All hazardous chemicals will be stored and used in line with relevant Australian Standardsand containers will not be handled or stored in a manner that may rupture the drum or causeit to leak.A central spill kit is to be located on site and all workers are to be trained in itsimplementation to control spills.All vehicles and machinery containing or carrying hazardous materials are to be equippedwith spill kits at all times.All drums, which are kept in a horizontal position for the purpose of filling other containers,will have a drip pan or bucket under the discharge point in order to catch small leaks. Allfaulty valves used on dispensing drums will be replaced immediately. All valves will haveautomatic shut-off capabilities.Refuelling and maintenance activities are performed in designated bunded areas, if required.

Spills of hydrocarbons and chemicals will be immediately cleaned up and contaminatedmaterial appropriately disposed of, in accordance with the CEMP.

Loss of waste materials (inert, putrescibleand hazardous)

Construction, Operation,Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

A recycling skip and general waste skips are to be provided at this site.

All waste storage areas shall be located in accordance with Airservices agreed drawings.

All wastes and other potential polluting items must be removed from the site at projectcompletion and the site shall be left in a clean and tidy state.

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The site is to be kept in a neat and tidy condition at all times through good house-keepingpractices so as to promote site safety and minimise pollution. This shall include use of wastebins (including recycling bins) and regular waste removal to prevent overfilling of bins,promptly clean up after spills, regular tidy up of the site.Bins containing food waste are to be emptied at the end of each day, with contents removedfrom site for disposal in an off-site bin or at an appropriate waste facility. This is particularlyimportant to avoid attracting pigs, and other pest species to the site.All bins and skips are to be covered to prevent rubbish from blowing away or rainwater andpests entering the waste receptacle.

Bushfire Design Include appropriate internal setback of radar equipment from the compound fenceline toprevent any outbreak of fire within the radar compound from jumping to surrounding remnantvegetation.Ensure sufficient cleared parking spaces are available to avoid vehicles parking in longgrass.

Construction, Operation,Maintenance,Decommissioning andReinstatement.

Fires are not permitted on site.

Hot works have potential to start fires, with safety and environmental implications. Hot worksare to only be conducted under a Hot Work Permit, or similar, issued by the ConstructionManager (or their delegate).Adequate firefighting resources, including 2 x firefighting knapsacks filled with water, are tobe available on site at all times during construction works.All vehicles must contain spark arresters on diesel engines. Fire-fighting equipment andpersonnel trained in firefighting are to be on-hand during hot works to minimise damagecaused by accidental fires.To minimise the risk of fires, vehicles must only be parked in designated areas. Vehiclesmust not be parked under the drip line of trees or in areas that have not been identified in theContractor’s Traffic Management Plan.Fire hazard warnings associated with weather patterns and fire risk are issued both by theBureau of Meteorology and the Queensland Rural Fire Service. Fire hazard warnings mustbe checked daily and construction crews must be aware of the fire warnings.

Vehicular strike Pre-construction Preparation of Project-specific Traffic Management Plan.

All Implementation of Project-specific Traffic Management Plan.

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Vehicle speed restrictions of 40 km/hr on sealed surfaces and 20 km/hr on unsealed surfacesimplemented.Many animals become more active at dawn and dusk. As far as practicable, avoid vehicularmovements to/from site outside of daylight hours.

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6.0 Compliance Management

6.1 Roles and Responsibilities6.1.1 Construction Phase

During the construction period, the Site Supervisor will be the Responsible Person and will undertake thefollowing:

- Ensure that the requirements of this SMP are satisfied.

- Ensure that contractors and any sub-contractors engaged in the construction of the Project are advised oftheir responsibilities to undertake their activities required by this SMP.

- Ensure that the auditing/monitoring program is implemented properly.

- Prepare incident reports and implement corrective actions.

- Ensure appropriate records are kept and maintained on-site.

- Retain a copy of this SMP on-site for reference by appropriate personnel and provide copy of plan tocontractors, if requested.

- Recommend additions or changes to this SMP based upon experience gained from implementation of theplan.

6.1.2 Operational Phase

During the operational phase and subsequent de-commissioning period, Airservices’ EnvironmentalRepresentative will be the Responsible Person and will undertake the following:

- Ensure that the requirements of this SMP are satisfied.

- Ensure that the auditing/monitoring program is implemented properly.

- Prepare incident reports and implement corrective actions.

- Ensure appropriate records are kept and maintained on-site.

- Retain a copy of this SMP for reference by appropriate personnel.

- Recommend additions or changes to this SMP based upon experience gained from implementation of theplan.

6.2 TrainingAll employees, contractors and sub-contractors working on site will undergo site induction training, includingmatters relating to fauna management. The induction training will address elements related to fauna managementincluding:

- Existence and requirements of this SMP.

- Relevant legislation.

- Specific species likely to be affected by the construction works and how these species can be recognised(refer to Section 4).

- Fauna rescue requirements.

- General fauna management measures.

- Specific responsibilities for the protection of fauna.

Further details regarding staff induction and training are outlined in the CEMP.

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6.3 Inspections and Monitoring6.3.1 Establishing Pre-clearing Condition

Prior to the commencement of clearing, the Site Supervisor will provide Airservices with a report specifying (as aminimum):

- The number and location of canopy trees to be identified for removal.

- The number and location of trees identified for lopping.

- The total area of disturbance required for the Project works.

- The location and type of habitat features within the development footprint identified by the ecologist duringpre-clearing inspection.

- A summary of any relocation of habitat features undertaken prior to the commencement of clearing,including location of re-located features.

- The location of designated stockpile areas for soil and vegetation management.

6.3.2 Post-clearing Monitoring

Following the completion of site preparation works, the Site Supervisor will provide Airservices with a reportspecifying (as a minimum):

- The number and location of canopy trees removal.

- The number and location of trees lopped.

- The total area of disturbance.

- The location of designated stockpile areas and details on how they are being managed e.g. soil erosion andweed prevention controls.

- A register of all fauna species observed and/or relocated by the spotter-catcher during site preparationworks.

6.3.3 Inspections

Formal site inspections are to be conducted on a weekly basis during the Project implementation by the SiteSupervisor, based on the Site Inspection Checklist provided in Appendix G of the CEMP. Site inspections must bedone to monitor if the environmental controls mentioned in the CEMP and this SMP are being appropriatelyimplemented and if there are any environmental impacts from the construction works.

The records of inspections are to be maintained on project files and copies provided to Airservices’ ProjectManager.

6.4 ReportingGeneral reporting requirements for the Project are specified in Section 8.3 of the CEMP.

Any activity resulting in the unlawful / unauthorised removal of native vegetation or causing death or injury tonative fauna during site activities shall be reported to the Site Manager immediately.

Any impacts to native fauna are to be reported to Airservices within 24 hours of occurrence.

Injured fauna can be reported to Far North Queensland Wildlife Rescue (4053 4467).

6.5 Corrective ActionsAll incidents and non-conformances with this SMP will be reviewed by Airservices’ Project Manager,Environmental Representative and the Site Supervisor. Where appropriate, management and control actions willbe identified and implemented to prevent future occurrence of the incident/con-conformance.

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7.0 Resourcing

7.1 Specialist ResourcesThe following specialist resources are required to support specific construction activities:

Table 7 Specialised resources required to implement obligations of this SMP

Role Minimum Qualifications Construction Activities

Ecologist � Minimum of 5 years’ experience as apractising botany professional.

� Tertiary qualification in ecology, orsimilar.

� Pre-clearing site demarcation

� Mark-out of protected flora

� Trunk protection of trees

� Protective fencing of protected flora

Spotter-Catcher � Must hold a current RehabilitationPermit, licensed under the NC Act.

� Tree clearing

� Other vegetation clearing

� Tree pruning

Arborist � Australian Qualifications Framework(AQF) Level 3 qualification inarboriculture, as a minimum.

� Tree clearing

� Tree pruning

It may be possible for more than one of the above-mentioned roles to be filled by a single person, on the conditionthat they hold the minimum qualifications for each.

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8.0 ReferencesAECOM (2014a). Environmental Assessment Report, Hann Tablelands Transportable Radar Site. Unpublishedreport written by AECOM Australia Pty Ltd for Indra Australia Pty Ltd.

AECOM (2014b). Environmental Impact Assessment, Hann Tablelands Transportable Radar Site. Unpublishedreport written by AECOM Australia Pty Ltd for Indra Australia Pty Ltd.

American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA)(2007). The American Veterinary Medicine AssociationGuidelines on Euthanasia. Available at: http://www.avma.org/issues/animal_welfare/euthanasia.pdf

Braithwaite, R. W. & R.J. Begg (1995). Northern quoll Dasyurus hallucatus Gould, 1842. In: Strahan, R., ed. TheMammals of Australia: National Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife. Page(s) 65-66. Sydney: Reed Books.

Churchill, S. (2008). Australian Bats, Second edition.

Close, B. et al. (1996). Recommendations for euthanasia of experimental animals: Part 1. DGXI of the EuropeanCommission. Laboratory Animals 30, 293-316

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland Government. Guideline: Developing a speciesmanagement program.

Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Australian Government.Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 referral guidelines for the endangered northernquoll, Dasyurus hallucatus. EPBC Act policy statement 3.25.

Hill B.M. and Ward S.J. (2010). National Recovery Plan for the Northern Quoll Dasyurus hallucatus. Departmentof Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport, Darwin.

Long, K and Robley, A (2004). Cost Effective Feral Animal Exclusion Fencing for Areas of High ConservationValue in Australia.Oakwood, M. (2008). Northern quoll Dasyurus hallucatus. In: Van Dyck, S. & R. Strahan, eds. The Mammals ofAustralia (3rd ed). Page(s) 57-59. Sydney, NSW: Reed New Holland.

Oakwood, M. (1997). The ecology of the northern quoll, Dasyurus hallucatus. PhD Thesis, Australian NationalUniversity. Ph.D. Thesis.

Pizzey, G (2010). The field guide to the birds of Australia, 8th edition.

Sharp T, Lothian A, Munn A and Saunders G (2011). CAN001 Methods for the field euthanasia of cane toads.Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, Industry & Investment NSW and School of Biological Sciences, University ofWollongong.

Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2005aq). NON-APPROVED Conservation Advice on Northern Quoll(Dasyurus hallucatus). [Online]. Available from:http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/dasyurus-hallucatus.html#conservation.

Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2005x). Commonwealth Listing Advice on Northern Quoll (Dasyurushallucatus). [Online]. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/dasyurus-hallucatus.html.

Wilson, S. (2010). A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia, Third edition.

Woinarski, J.C.Z., M. Oakwood, J. Winter, S. Burnett, D. Milne, P. Foster, H. Myles & B. Holmes (2008). Survivingthe toads: patterns of persistence of the northern quoll Dasyurus hallucatus in Queensland. Report submitted tothe Natural Heritage Trust Strategic Reserve Program.

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AAttachment A

Identifying Cane Toads

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Attachment A Identifying Cane Toads

Male Cane Toad

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Female Cane Toad

Juvenile Cane Toad

Cane Toad Metamorph

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Cane Toad Metamorph

Cane Toad Tadpole

Cane Toad Eggs

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BAttachment B

Approved Methods ofCane Toad Euthanasia

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Attachment B Approved Methods of Cane Toad Euthanasia

1. Stunning Followed by Decapitation

This method is considered CONDITIONALLY ACCEPTABLE for the euthanasia of small numbers ofcane toads when:

§ it is carried out by experienced and skilled persons;

§ the animal is held by the back legs against a solid surface;

§ a large headed hammer is used for stunning;

§ correct stun placement and stun force is used; and

§ the toad is promptly decapitated with a sharp knife or cleaver.

Introduction

� Stunning (blunt trauma or cranial concussion) followed by decapitation is an effective and humane methodthat is recommended for the euthanasia of amphibians (AVMA, 2007). When performed correctly, stunningis sufficient to render the animal insensible (Close et al. 1996). Decapitation, which involves severing theneck of the animal close to the head using a sharp instrument, is then used to ensure death of the stunnedanimal.

� Animals must always be stunned or rendered insensible prior to decapitation. Decapitation on its own isNOT an acceptable euthanasia technique since cold-blooded vertebrates are very tolerant to hypoxic andhypotensive conditions and time to insensibility and death may be prolonged (Close et al. 1996; AVMA,2007).

� Operators using this method must be skilled in its use and confident enough to deliver a blow of sufficientforce and accuracy to render the animal immediately insensible.

� Stunning must be conducted so that the cane toad is securely held against a solid surface that will notmove or compress during the stun impact (e.g. a chopping board on a table or the tray of a utility vehicle).If conducted against a softer surface (e.g. on the ground) the animal may not be rendered immediatelyinsensible.

� Stunning followed by decapitation can also be used as a secondary killing method in the event that anothermethod fails to kill the animal. Animals should always be checked to confirm death (see above) beforebeing disposed of, and equipment to perform stunning and decapitation should be on hand for such use.

� Although it is a relatively simple method, with very little outlay for equipment, stunning followed bydecapitation may not be cost-effective for killing large numbers of toads if there are only one or twooperators. It can be time-consuming and labour intensive, taking 1 to 2 minutes to kill each animal andoperators may become fatigued.

Specific health and safety considerations

� When toads are stunned with a blow to the head, the toxin glands (situated just behind the head) mayrupture and spray toxin. Operators should use a full face mask/visor to avoid getting toxins in their eyes,mouth and nose.

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� Care must be taken when stunning toads with a hammer as there is a risk that operators may strike athumb or fingers.

� Working with sharp knives can be dangerous. Operators should use a chainmail glove to protect the handthat is restraining the toad.

Equipment required

Stunning equipment

� A large hammer with a flat, metal head, or equivalent should be used for stunning. The face of the hammerhead should be at least 2.0cm in diameter. Rubber mallets are not acceptable as they may absorb theimpact.

� A rigid wooden or plastic chopping board (approximately 30 x 20 x 2.5 cm), or equivalent.

Decapitation equipment

� A large, sharp knife or cleaver, with a blade at least 15cm long, should be used for decapitation. The knifeshould be sharpened regularly.

Other equipment:

� Personal protective equipment including gloves and appropriate eye/face protection.

� Chainmail glove

� First-aid kit

Procedures

� Whilst wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, restrain the cane toad by firmly holding theback legs.

� Gently press the belly of the cane toad onto a chopping board that is on a stable and solid surface.

� Using a hammer, apply a forceful blow to the middle of the head just behind the eyes (see diagram inAppendix).

� Immediately after delivering the stun, use the knife to decapitate the head. Cut in a line just behind theskull and lower jaw bones (see Figure 3). These can be felt by following back along the jaw line until thebone turns inwards. Caution must be taken as this line runs through the toxin glands and toxin may beforced out during cutting (especially if the knife is not sharp).

� Dispose of dead cane toads by deep burial or other approved method (i.e. double bagged and disposed ofas waste). Note that dead cane toads are still considered to be toxic.

Figure 3 Point of aim for stunning and line of cut for decapitation (Sharp et al., 2011)

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2. Spraying with Hopstop®

This method is considered CONDITIONALLY ACCEPTABLE for the field euthanasia of cane toadswhen:

§ The toad is treated with sufficient spray to anaesthetise and then kill them quickly andeffectively, therefore two sprays are recommended for all animals; and

§ Toads are confirmed as dead prior to disposal.

Introduction

Hopstop® is an aerosol spray specifically developed by Pestat Pty. Ltd. for the euthanasia of cane toads. Itcontains 4% chloroxylenol and 67% ethanol, as well as isopropanol, citral and alkanes which act as a propellant.(U.S. Patent Application No. 12/312,500, Publication No. 2010/0069506, 2010; Pestat Pty. Ltd., 2008).Chloroxylenol (which is also the active ingredient in Dettol®) acts as the pesticidal or toad killing agent in thespray and the ethanol is used as an anaesthetising agent. The isopropanol is used as a carrier for thechloroxylenol. Hopstop has achieved registration with the Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authority.

Specific health and safety considerations

� Users must read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Hopstop® which can be obtained from the supplier at:http://www.pestat.com.au/extras/HopStop-MSDS.pdf.

� Do not puncture or incinerate the can even once it is empty. Keep the product out of the reach of children.Deliberately concentrating and/or inhaling the contents could be harmful or fatal.

� HopStop® should only be used outdoors. Do not use it inside buildings or other enclosed areas, and do notinhale the spray. Do not spray it towards yourself, other people or animals, and avoid direct application toplant foliage. Do not spray it into or over dams or fishponds. Chloroxylenol is toxic to aquatic animals andshould not be applied where it could contaminate water bodies.

� HopStop® is supplied in a pressurised dispenser, and should be treated like any other aerosol product. Thecontents of the can are highly flammable and the product should not be stored or used near any sources ofignition, naked flames or any incandescent material. Do not smoke while using HopStop®. Store the can ina cool place away from direct sunlight.

� Avoid contact of HopStop® with your skin, eyes and clothes. Wear suitable clothing, and wear gloves whenusing the product or handling toads. In case of accidental skin contact, wash the affected area immediatelywith soap and water. In case of eye contact, wash eyes immediately with water.

� If poisoning occurs, contact a doctor or the Poisons Information Centre (Tel: 131 126).

Equipment required

� Can of Hopstop®

� Other equipment:

o Personal protective equipment including gloves and appropriate eye/face protection.

o First aid kit

Procedures

The following instructions include directions for use from the manufacturer available at:http://www.pestat.com.au/html/products.htm.

Full directions for use are also provided on the label of each can and include:

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� Identify cane toads. Only amphibians identified as cane toads should euthanased. Native frogs must notbe sprayed.

� Shake the can of Hopstop® briefly and gently before use.

� Hold the can upright about 20-30cm from the toad and spray the toad on the back for 2-3 seconds. Thetoad will hop for a short time, then stop moving and flatten into a ‘hunched’ position. If you spray the toadwhere it can move towards a barrier such as a wall, fence or rock, it will then stop and settle down. Do notchase the toad as this is likely to alarm it and cause it to panic and try to hop further and faster. Once thetoad has stopped moving apply a second spray.

� Always watch where the toad hops to and then leave it undisturbed until it dies. After 2 hours check eachtoad for signs of death (see above). Do not directly handle toads, always wear gloves. If any toads are notdead they must either be re-treated with Hopstop® or stunned and decapitated. All toads must beconfirmed as dead prior to disposal of carcasses.

� Dispose of dead cane toads by deep burial or other approved method (i.e. double bagged and disposed ofas waste). Note that dead cane toads are still considered to be toxic.