Biodiversity Assessment Method 2020 200438
Biodiversity Assessment Method 2020 200438
Biodiversity Assessment Method 2020 200438
Biodiversity
Assessment Method
environment.nsw.gov.au
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ISBN 978-1-922493-29-3
EES 2020/0468
October 2020
www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Contents
List of tables vi
List of figures vii
Acronyms and abbreviations viii
1 Overview of the Biodiversity Assessment Method 1
1.1 Legislation and policies underpinning the Biodiversity Assessment
Method 1
1.2 Biodiversity credits and classes 2
1.3 Accredited person (assessor) 2
1.4 Data and information used in the Biodiversity Assessment Method 2
1.5 Biodiversity values not assessed under the Biodiversity Assessment
Method 4
1.6 Structure of the Biodiversity Assessment Method 4
Stage 1: Biodiversity assessment 5
2 Introduction to Stage 1 5
2.1 Assessment of biodiversity values 5
2.2 Streamlined assessment modules 5
3 Establishing the site context 7
3.1 Identify landscape features 7
3.2 Assess native vegetation cover 9
4 Assessing native vegetation, threatened ecological communities
and vegetation integrity 10
4.1 Map native vegetation extent on the subject land 10
4.2 Identify and map plant community types and ecological communities 10
4.3 Map vegetation zones and assess vegetation integrity (vegetation
condition) 13
4.4 Determine the vegetation integrity score 18
5 Assessing the habitat suitability for threatened species 19
5.1 Ecosystem credit species, species credit species and dual credit
species 19
5.2 Assess habitat suitability for threatened species (ecosystem credit
species and species credit species) 20
5.3 Threatened species survey requirements 24
5.4 Identify the biodiversity risk weighting for the species (proposals for
development, activity, clearing and biodiversity certification) 26
6 Identifying prescribed additional biodiversity impacts 27
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Stage 2: Impact assessment (biodiversity values and prescribed
impacts) 29
7 Avoiding or minimising impacts on biodiversity values 29
7.1 Avoid or minimise direct and indirect impacts when planning the
proposal 29
7.2 Avoid or minimise prescribed impacts when planning the proposal 31
8 Assessing the impacts of the proposal on biodiversity values 33
8.1 Assess direct impacts on native vegetation, threatened ecological
communities, threatened species and their habitat 33
8.2 Assess indirect impacts on native vegetation, threatened ecological
communities, threatened species and their habitat 34
8.3 Assess prescribed biodiversity impacts 35
8.4 Mitigate and manage impacts on biodiversity values 37
8.5 Adaptive management for uncertain biodiversity impacts 39
8.6 Use of biodiversity credits to mitigate or offset indirect or prescribed
impacts 40
9 Thresholds for assessing and offsetting the impacts of
development 41
9.1 Assessment for serious and irreversible impacts on biodiversity
values 41
9.2 Determine an offset requirement for impacts 44
9.3 Impacts that do not need further assessment 45
10 Applying the no net loss standard 46
10.1 Calculate the offset requirement for direct impacts 46
10.2 Identify the credit class for ecosystem credits and species credits 49
10.3 Offset rules for biodiversity values 50
Stage 3: Improving biodiversity values 51
11 Calculating gain in biodiversity values at a biodiversity stewardship
site 51
11.1 Assess gain in biodiversity values at the biodiversity stewardship site 51
11.2 Prepare a management plan for the biodiversity stewardship site 51
11.3 Management actions that improve biodiversity values 52
11.4 Calculate the change (gain) in vegetation integrity score at a
biodiversity stewardship site 56
11.5 Calculate the security benefit score at a biodiversity stewardship site 59
11.6 Calculate the number of ecosystem credits created at a biodiversity
stewardship site 59
11.7 Calculate the number of species credits created at a biodiversity
stewardship site 60
11.8 Identify the credit class for biodiversity credits created at a
biodiversity stewardship site 61
11.9 Existing obligations and management actions 61
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12 Addressing the biodiversity impacts of biodiversity certification
applications 65
Appendix A: Guidelines for collecting benchmark data from local
reference sites or published sources 66
Appendix B: Streamlined assessment module – Scattered trees
assessment 69
Appendix C: Streamlined assessment module – Small area 73
Appendix D: Streamlined assessment module – Planted native
vegetation 76
Appendix E: Ordering of waterways and riparian buffer distances 79
Appendix F: Growth form definitions 81
Appendix G: Assessing the future value of attributes used to assess
composition, structure and function at a biodiversity stewardship
site 83
Appendix H: Determining the vegetation integrity score 92
Appendix I: Biodiversity risk weighting 103
Appendix J: Valuing land-based conservation measures for strategic
biodiversity certification 108
Appendix K: Requirements for a Biodiversity Development Assessment
Report and a Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report 115
Appendix L: Requirements for a Biodiversity Development Assessment
Report – Streamlined assessment modules 129
Appendix M: Requirements for a Biodiversity Stewardship Site
Assessment Report 150
Glossary 157
References 168
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List of tables
Table 1 Vegetation survey data collected on the subject land 12
Table 2 Growth form groups and attributes used to assess the
composition, structure and function components of vegetation
integrity 15
Table 3 Minimum number of plots required per zone area 15
Table 4 Offset trading groups for threatened ecological communities 50
Table 5 Offset trading groups for non-threatened plant community types 50
Table 6 Required management actions for improving vegetation integrity
and threatened species habitat at a biodiversity stewardship site 53
Table 7 Active restoration management actions that may be undertaken to
improve or manage native vegetation or threatened species
habitat at a biodiversity stewardship site 55
Table 8 Security benefit score 59
Table 9 Percentage reduction for ecosystem credits and species credits for
a biodiversity stewardship site on certain types of publicly owned
land 63
Table 10 Percentage reduction for ecosystem credits and species credits for
a biodiversity stewardship site with existing conservation
obligations 64
Table 11 Number of ecosystem credits required per scattered tree 71
Table 12 Area limits for application of the small area development module 73
Table 13 Steps to assess small areas 73
Table 14 Riparian buffer distances 80
Table 15 Growth form groups and growth form definitions 81
Table 16 Values for w (Equation 11) and c (Equation 12) 86
Table 17 Static weights that apply to the scoring of function attributes 95
Table 18 Tree stem size classes scores 95
Table 19 Application of the biodiversity risk weighting, ecosystem credits 103
Table 20 Application of the biodiversity risk weighting, species credits 104
Table 21 Sensitivity to loss class (threatened species, ecological
communities and plant community types) 105
Table 22 Sensitivity to gain class (threatened species) 106
Table 23 Weightings for land-based conservation measures 113
Table 24 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity
Development Assessment Report and the Biodiversity Certification
Assessment Report – Stage 1: Biodiversity assessment 116
Table 25 Minimum information requirements for the BDAR or BCAR – Stage
2: Impact assessment (biodiversity values) 124
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Table 26 Minimum information requirements for a Biodiversity Development
Assessment Report: Streamlined assessment module – Scattered
trees assessment 129
Table 27 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity
Development Assessment Report: Streamlined assessment
module – Small area 136
Table 28 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity
Development Assessment Report: Streamlined assessment
module – Planted native vegetation 145
Table 29 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity
Stewardship Site Assessment Report (application for a
biodiversity stewardship agreement), Stage 1: Biodiversity
assessment 150
Table 30 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity
Stewardship Site Assessment Report (application for a
biodiversity stewardship agreement), Stage 3: Improving
biodiversity values 156
List of figures
Figure 1 Strahler stream ordering system 79
Figure 2 Hypothetical curves illustrating how the probability of reaching
benchmark condition might vary for different vegetation attributes 83
Figure 3 Modifier for the intrinsic rate of increase in habitat attributes 85
Figure 4 Curve specified in Equation 11 to describe the effect of high threat
exotic plants on rates of gain in habitat attributes 86
Figure 5 Curve specified in Equation 12 to describe the effect of site
resilience on rates of gain in habitat attributes 88
Figure 6 Cumulative likelihood of a successful tree regeneration event,
P(R), over a 20-year management timeframe 89
Figure 7 Relationship between cover of high threat weed vegetation,
excluding those that are manageable high threat weeds, and
modifier used to calculate the maximum allowable active
restoration gains 91
Figure 8 Weibull distribution used for continuous unweighted scoring of
composition condition for each growth form group 92
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Acronyms and abbreviations
BAM Biodiversity Assessment Method
BAM-C Biodiversity Assessment Method Calculator
BAR Biodiversity Assessment Report
BC Act Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (NSW)
BCAR Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report
BC Regulation Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017 (NSW)
BCT Biodiversity Conservation Trust
BDAR Biodiversity Development Assessment Report
BSSAR Biodiversity Stewardship Site Assessment Report
BOS Biodiversity Offsets Scheme
CEEC Critically endangered ecological community
DBH Diameter at breast height over bark
EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth)
EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW)
EEC Endangered ecological community
HTW High threat weed
IBRA Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia
LLS Act Local Land Services Act 2013 (NSW)
NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW)
NSW New South Wales
PCT Plant community type
SAII Serious and irreversible impact
TBDC Threatened Biodiversity Data Collection
TEC Threatened ecological community
Vegetation State Environmental Planning Policy (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) 2017
SEPP
VEC Vulnerable ecological community
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2. The BOS is established under Part 6 of the BC Act. The LLS Act, the Vegetation SEPP
and the BC Regulation are also relevant to the BOS.
3. The Minister administering the BC Act enacts the BAM. The BAM is made by order of
the Minister under Section 6.7 of the BC Act and published on the NSW legislation
website.
4. The BAM is established for the purposes of assessing the impacts of a proposal on
threatened species, ecological communities, and their habitats including native
vegetation. The BAM is also used to assess additional (prescribed) biodiversity impacts.
‘Native vegetation’ has the same meaning as in Section 60B of the LLS Act.
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c. planted native vegetation, where the planted native vegetation was planted for
purposes such as street trees and other roadside plantings, windbreaks,
landscaping in parks and gardens, and revegetation for environmental rehabilitation
(Appendix D).
2. Appendices B, C and D set out the circumstances where each of the streamlined
assessment modules can be used to assess a proposal and the specific assessment
requirements.
3. The streamlined assessment modules for scattered trees and planted native vegetation
may be used in conjunction with the full BAM to assess particular parts of the subject
land under a single BDAR.
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Habitat connectivity
5. For all proposals (except biodiversity stewardship sites), the assessor must identify the
connectivity of different areas of habitat that may serve as movement corridors for
threatened species across their range.
6. For development proposing the construction of wind turbines, the flyways for
migratory species that pass over the subject land must be mapped and shown on the
Location Map.
Karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks and other geological features of significance
7. The assessor must identify and map areas containing karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks
or other geological features of significance.
Additional features
11. Additional features that are required to be assessed according to any applicable
Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements must be mapped.
12. For vegetation clearing proposals (that require approval under Part 5A of the LLS Act, or
a permit under the Vegetation SEPP), the assessor must identify and show:
a. all soil hazard features that occur on the subject land on the Site Map
b. any other soil hazard features that occur within the assessment area on the
Location Map.
13. The assessor must map and show all areas of native vegetation cover within the
assessment area on the Location Map, including all areas of planted native vegetation
identified in accordance with Appendix D.
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PCT identification
3. The PCT must be identified using the data collected in Section 4.1, Section 4.2 and
Subsection 4.2.1.
4. The map of PCTs used in the BAR must delineate the distribution of the PCTs on the
subject land based on the outcomes of the plot-based floristic vegetation survey.
5. The assessor must also record the estimated extent to which the PCT has been cleared,
using data from the BioNet Vegetation Classification. This is automatically populated in
the BAM-C.
6. Floristic vegetation survey plots may also be used to support the vegetation integrity
plots (see Subsection 4.3.3). When they are also used for vegetation integrity, the
assessor must assign each native plant species recorded in the plot to the growth form
group identified for that species published on the BAM-C webpage.
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3. The patch size class is used to assess habitat suitability on the subject land for
threatened species in Subsection 5.2.1.
4. The assessor may assign more than one patch size class to the vegetation zone if both
of the following apply:
a. a vegetation zone comprises two or more discontinuous areas of native vegetation,
and
b. the areas of discontinuous native vegetation have more than one patch size class.
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Table 2 Growth form groups and condition attributes used to assess the composition,
structure and function components of vegetation integrity
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4. Plot boundaries should not be established within 50 m of ecotones, vehicle tracks and
their edges, or other disturbed areas that are easily distinguishable from the broad
condition state of the vegetation zone.
5. The assessor must ensure that all function attributes relevant to the PCT, including the
presence of any hollow bearing trees, are captured within a minimum of one plot.
6. When combining discontinuous areas of vegetation into a single vegetation zone, the
assessor must not establish the survey plots within a single area. Survey plots should
sample across the separate areas.
7. The assessor must establish survey plots around a central 50 m midline as follows:
a. one 400 m2 plot (standard 20 m × 20 m), to assess all the composition and
structure attributes set out in Table 2
b. one 1000 m2 (standard 20 m × 50 m) plot, to assess the function attributes (number
of large trees, stem size classes, tree regeneration and length of logs)
c. five 1 m2 subplots, to assess average litter cover (and other optional ground cover
components) for the plot.
Assess composition
13. The assessor must assess composition within the 400 m2 plot.
14. To assess the composition, the assessor observes and records the number of native
plant species (richness) within a plot for each growth form group shown in Table 2.
15. The assessor must assign a native plant species to a growth form group as defined in
Appendix F. Allocation is based on the adult/mature growth form of the species. A list of
native species by growth form is published on the BAM-C webpage.
16. The composition data to be recorded for each 400 m2 condition plot are:
a. full species name (Genus species) for the three dominant native species within
each growth form group. Dominant native species are the native species that
contribute most to the total cover of the growth form group
b. genus name followed by species 1, species 2 and so on, or the full species name,
where practicable, for all other species. ‘Practicable’ means that sufficient plant
material is present to make a species-level identification, and the assessor has
sufficient skills and knowledge to identify the species in the field
c. whether each species is native, or high threat weed or non-high threat weed
d. the growth form group to which each native species has been allocated.
17. The assessor must count the number of different native plant species recorded for each
growth form group within each 400 m2 condition plot.
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The following methods for recording foliage cover are not acceptable and will result in
incorrect structure scores:
• Braun–Blanquet (or other) classes
• a transect point intercept method
• estimating projected foliage cover or canopy cover.
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25. The number of large trees is a count of all living stems with a DBH equal to or greater
than the large tree benchmark DBH for that PCT or vegetation class. For a multi-
stemmed tree, at least one living stem must be equal to or greater than the large tree
benchmark DBH.
26. The large tree benchmark sizes for a PCT or a vegetation class/IBRA are published in
the BioNet Vegetation Classification database.
27. Tree regeneration is the presence of living trees from the tree growth form group with a
maximum stem diameter of <5 cm regardless of height.
28. Stem size classes are the presence of living tree stems. Stem size classes identify the
presence of living stems in each size class that is ≥5 cm DBH and less than the large tree
benchmark size DBH for the PCT. The numbers of stem size classes for a PCT or a
vegetation class/IBRA are published in the BioNet Vegetation Classification database.
Fallen logs
29. The assessor must record the length of fallen logs within the 1000 m2 plot. The
combined length of fallen logs from native and exotic species are recorded for this
attribute.
30. The length of fallen logs is the total length in metres of all woody material greater than
10 cm in diameter that is dead and entirely or partly on the ground within the 1000 m2
plot. If logs extend outside the plot, the assessor must record only the length of fallen
logs within the plot.
Litter cover
31. Litter includes leaves, seeds, twigs, branchlets and branches (<10 cm in diameter).
Litter from native and exotic species (combined) are recorded for this attribute. Litter
cover is the average percentage ground cover of litter recorded from five 1 m × 1 m
plots evenly located parallel to the central 50 m midline.
32. The assessor must include all plant material that is detached from a plant and forms part
of the litter layer on the ground surface. Litter cover is the two-dimensional litter layer in
contact with the ground surface, including litter under the canopies of erect plants. Plant
material that is not detached should be assessed as growth form foliage cover,
regardless of whether it appears alive or dead.
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2. The assessor must identify the species assessed for species credits in conjunction with:
a. information about the site context of the subject land (Section 1)
b. information about PCTs and attributes (Chapter 4)
c. data from the TBDC.
3. Based on this information, the threatened species identified to be assessed for species
credits for a proposal are automatically populated in the BAM-C. In the BAM-C, these
species are referred to as candidate species.
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e. the patch size (associated with the relevant vegetation zone) is equal to, or greater
than, the minimum specified for that species (see Subsection 4.3.2)
f. the species is identified as being assessed for ecosystem credits or species credits
in the TBDC.
3. Not all of the criteria in (2.a–2.f.) are relevant to every species. A criterion is considered
to be not relevant if the species’ profile in the TBDC does not contain information for that
criterion. For example, native vegetation cover (criterion d) and patch size (criterion e)
are generally not relevant criteria for the assessment of threatened flora species.
Note: Geographic limitations are not reported in the TBDC and instead are located on the threatened
biodiversity profile webpage. Many threatened species do not have information on geographical
limitations.
4. A threatened species is identified as requiring assessment if all the criteria relevant for
the species in (2.a–2.f.) are met. Species that meet all the relevant criteria are
automatically populated in the BAM-C to be assessed either for ecosystem credits or
species credits.
5. If any one of the criteria (2.a–2.f) relevant to the threatened species is not met, the
subject land should be considered as unsuitable habitat for that species. No further
assessment is required for that species.
6. If any past surveys of the subject land have recorded the presence of a threatened
species or it has been incidentally observed on site, the species must be assessed in
accordance with Steps 2–6 below (Subsections 5.2.2–5.2.6), regardless of whether the
relevant criteria in (2.) have been met.
7. If a vegetation zone covers more than one IBRA subregion, the IBRA subregion in
which most of the proposal occurs must be used. For linear-shaped proposals, the
assessor must assess the habitat suitability for each IBRA subregion separately.
2. The assessor may consider that a threatened species is unlikely to occur on the subject
land or in a vegetation zone if:
a. the assessor determines that none of the habitat constraints for the species are
present in a vegetation zone. No further assessment is required for that species in
that vegetation zone. The assessor must record their reasoning for this
determination in the BAR, or
b. the assessor determines that none of the habitat constraints for the species are
present on the entire subject land. No further assessment is required for that
species. The assessor must record their reasoning for this determination in the
BAR, or
c. the species is a vagrant in the IBRA subregion. No further assessment is required.
The assessor must record their reasoning for this determination in the BAR.
3. If the assessor determines that one or more of the habitat constraints is present on the
subject land or in a vegetation zone, they must assess that threatened species further.
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4. All remaining threatened species identified for the proposal in the BAM-C as:
a. ecosystem credit species are considered likely to have suitable habitat on the
subject land and must be assessed for the impacts of the proposal in Stage 2
(unless it is a proposed biodiversity stewardship site), including measures taken to
avoid, minimise and mitigate impacts. These species are referred to as ‘predicted
species’ in the BAM-C and the assessor must calculate ecosystem credits to offset
any residual impacts
b. species credit species are likely to have suitable habitat on the subject land. They
are referred to as ‘candidate species credit species’ in the BAM-C and require
further assessment in accordance with Step 3 below (Subsection 5.2.3).
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Box 3 continued
The expert report
An expert report can only be used instead of survey for species credit species. An
expert report may be used to support the estimation of the area of suitable habitat or
number of individual flora where the species is assumed to be present on a
development site or in the biodiversity certification assessment area.
The expert report must document the information that was considered, and/or rejected
as unsuitable, to reach the determination made in the expert report. The BAR must
include the expert report.
An expert report must set out whether:
a. the species is unlikely to be present on or use habitat on the subject land, in which
case, no further assessment of the species is required, or
b. the species is likely to be present on or use habitat on the subject land.
If the species is likely to be present on or use the subject land, the expert report must:
a. identify the species or population
b. justify the use of an expert report
c. justify the likelihood of occurrence of the species or population and prepare a
species polygon as per Subsection 5.2.5
d. estimate the area of habitat (if the species is assessed by area) or the maximum
number of individuals (if the species is assessed by count of individuals) on the
subject land. Evidence such as a population estimate from a reference site could
be used to justify this estimation
e. include the information considered in making this determination
f. state the expert’s credentials.
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a. prepare a list of threatened entities that are likely to use or are a part of the
connectivity or corridor
b. describe the importance of the connectivity to threatened entities, particularly for
maintaining movement that is crucial to the species’ life cycle (based on published
literature and other reliable sources).
3. If relevant, these features must be identified on the Site Map and the Location Map
prepared in Chapter 3.
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4. Using the future value for each attribute, the assessor must use the BAM-C to apply
Equations 16–22 and Equations 25–26 in Appendix H to determine the future
vegetation integrity score for each vegetation zone and/or management zone.
5. The change (loss) in the vegetation integrity score is a measure of the direct impact on a
TEC/PCT and threatened species habitat. It is the difference between the current
vegetation integrity score determined before the development, activity, clearing or
biodiversity certification takes place and the future vegetation integrity score determined
after the assessor accounts for the impacts from the proposal. The assessor must use
the BAM-C to apply Equation 27 in Appendix H to determine the change in vegetation
integrity score for each vegetation zone.
6. For threatened species assessed by area, the assessor must use the change (loss) in
the vegetation integrity score of each vegetation zone in the species polygon to
measure the direct impact on the habitat condition for the species. The change in the
vegetation integrity score across the area of habitat within a species polygon is used in
Subsection 10.1.3 to determine the offset requirement for the species.
7. For threatened species assessed by count the assessor must measure the direct impact
on individual flora (defined by the species polygon as per Subsection 5.2.5), using the
number of individuals of the target species in the species polygon. The number of
individuals directly impacted within a species polygon is used in Subsection 10.1.3 to
determine the offset requirement for the species.
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m. increase in predators
n. increase in pest animal populations
o. changed fire regimes
p. disturbance to specialist breeding and foraging habitat (e.g. beach nesting for
shorebirds).
3. The assessment of indirect impacts must:
a. describe the nature, extent and duration of short-term and long-term impacts
b. identify the native vegetation, threatened species, TECs and their habitats likely to
be affected and the type of indirect impact that is likely to occur.
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2. Measures for mitigating impacts related to the displacement of resident fauna include:
a. timing works to avoid critical life cycle events, such as breeding or nursing
b. instigating clearing protocols, including pre-clearing surveys, daily surveys and
staged clearing, and using a trained ecologist or licensed wildlife handler during
clearing events
c. relocating habitat features (e.g. fallen timber, hollow logs) from the development or
clearing site or land to be biodiversity certified, to adjacent retained vegetation.
3. Measures for mitigating indirect impacts on native vegetation and habitat include, but
are not limited to:
a. adoption of clearing protocols that identify vegetation to be retained, prevent
inadvertent damage and reduce soil disturbance; for example, a chainsaw is
preferable to heavy machinery to remove native vegetation for partial clearing
b. using noise barriers, or daily/seasonal timing of construction and operational
activities to reduce impacts of noise
c. using light shields, or daily/seasonal timing of construction and operational activities
to reduce impacts of light spill
d. using adaptive dust management and monitoring programs to control air quality
e. scheduling the timing of construction activities to avoid impacts (e.g. timing the
construction for when migratory species are not at the site, or when particular species
known to, or likely to use the habitat on the site, are not breeding or nesting)
f. erecting temporary fencing to protect significant environmental features, such as
riparian zones
g. using hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of weeds or pathogens between
infected and uninfected areas
h. training staff and conducting site briefings to communicate environmental features
to be protected and measures to be implemented
i. preparing a vegetation management plan to regulate activity in vegetation and
habitats adjacent to residential developments. The plan may include controls on pet
ownership, rubbish disposal, wood collection, fire management, and disturbance to
nests and other niche habitats
j. providing for the ecological restoration, rehabilitation and/or ongoing maintenance
of retained native vegetation habitat on, or adjacent to, the development or clearing
site or land to be biodiversity certified.
4. To determine whether it is reasonable to apply a particular measure, the proponent
should consider:
a. industry best practice and standards
b. the proportion of the total cost of the proposal that is dedicated to biodiversity
protection
c. the risk that the measure could fail.
5. Measures that are proposed for mitigating impacts on native vegetation, threatened
species, TECs and their habitat must be set out in the BDAR or BCAR.
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c. retaining habitat features (e.g. fallen timber, hollow logs, rocks) within the subject
land, or relocating them to adjacent retained remnant vegetation
d. installing artificial connectivity measures (e.g. glider poles, rope crossings, habitat
bridges) to re-establish connections between habitat and favoured transport corridors
e. erecting temporary fencing to protect significant environmental features, such as
karst, caves, rock outcrops and water bodies
f. replacing habitat provided by human-made structures and non-native vegetation
with alternative habitat
g. using sediment barriers or sedimentation ponds to control the quality of water
released from the site into the receiving environment
h. training staff and conducting site briefings to communicate environmental features
to be protected and the measures implemented to protect them
i. ecological restoration, rehabilitation actions and/or maintenance of retained native
vegetation on, or adjacent to, the subject land
j. development control measures that regulate the types of activities that can occur in
native vegetation and habitat adjacent to residential development, including
prohibiting the collection of bush rocks.
2. To determine whether it is reasonable to apply a specific measure, the proponent should
consider:
a. industry best practice and standards
b. the proportion of the total cost of the proposal that is dedicated to biodiversity
protection
c. the risk that the measure could fail.
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b. extent of reduction in ecological function for the TEC using evidence that describes
the degree of environmental degradation or disruption to biotic processes (Principle
2, clause 6.7(2)(b) BC Regulation) indicated by:
i. change in community structure
ii. change in species composition
iii. disruption of ecological processes
iv. invasion and establishment of exotic species
v. degradation of habitat, and
vi. fragmentation of habitat
c. evidence of restricted geographic distribution (Principle 3, clause 6.7(2)(c) BC
Regulation), based on the TEC’s geographic range in NSW according to the:
i. extent of occurrence
ii. area of occupancy, and
iii. number of threat-defined locations
d. evidence that the TEC is unlikely to respond to management (Principle 4, clause
6.7(2)(d) BC Regulation).
3. Where the TBDC indicates data is ‘unknown’ or ‘data deficient’ for a TEC for a criterion
listed in Subsection 9.1.1(2.), the assessor must record this in the BDAR or BCAR.
4. In relation to the impacts from the proposal on the TEC at risk of an SAII, the assessor
must include data and information on:
a. the impact on the geographic extent of the TEC (Principles 1 and 3) by estimating
the total area of the TEC to be impacted by the proposal:
i. in hectares, and
ii. as a percentage of the current geographic extent of the TEC in NSW.
Data and information should include direct impacts (i.e. from clearing) and
indirect impacts where partial loss of the TEC is likely as a result of the
proposal. The assessor should consider for example, changes to fire regime
(frequency, severity), hydrology, pollutants, species interactions (increased
competition, changes to pollinators or dispersal), fragmentation, increased
edge effects and disease, pathogens and parasites, which are likely to
contribute to the loss of flora and/or fauna species characteristic of the TEC
b. the extent that the proposed impacts are likely to contribute to further environmental
degradation or the disruption of biotic processes (Principle 2) of the TEC by:
i. estimating the size of any remaining, but now isolated, areas of the TEC;
including areas of the TEC within 500 m of the development footprint or
equivalent area for other types of proposals
ii. describing the impacts on connectivity and fragmentation of the remaining
areas of TEC measured by:
• distance between isolated areas of the TEC, presented as the average
distance if the remnant is retained AND the average distance if the remnant
is removed as proposed, and
• estimated maximum dispersal distance for native flora species characteristic
of the TEC, and
• other information relevant to describing the impact on connectivity and
fragmentation, such as the area to perimeter ratio for remaining areas of the
TEC as a result of the development
iii. describing the condition of the TEC according to the vegetation integrity score
for the relevant vegetation zone(s) (Section 4.3). The assessor must also
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include the relevant composition, structure and function condition scores for
each vegetation zone.
5. The assessor may also provide new information that demonstrates that the principle
identifying that the TEC is at risk of an SAII is not accurate.
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
3. Where the TBDC indicates data is ‘unknown’ or ‘data deficient’ for a species for a
criterion listed in Subsection 9.1.2(2.), the assessor must record this in the BDAR or
BCAR.
4. In relation to the impacts from the proposal on the species at risk of an SAII, the
assessor must include data and information on:
a. the impact on the species’ population (Principles 1 and 2) presented by:
i. an estimate of the number of individuals (mature and immature) present in the
subpopulation on the subject land (the site may intersect or encompass the
subpopulation) and as a percentage of the total NSW population, and
ii. an estimate of the number of individuals (mature and immature) to be impacted
by the proposal and as a percentage of the total NSW population, or
iii. if the species’ unit of measure is area, provide data on the number of
individuals on the site, and the estimated number that will be impacted, along
with the area of habitat to be impacted by the proposal
b. impact on geographic range (Principles 1 and 3) presented by:
i. the area of the species’ geographic range to be impacted by the proposal in
hectares, and a percentage of the total AOO, or EOO within NSW
ii. the impact on the subpopulation as either: all individuals will be impacted
(subpopulation eliminated); OR impact will affect some individuals and habitat;
OR impact will affect some habitat, but no individuals of the species will be
directly impacted
iii. to determine if the persisting subpopulation that is fragmented will remain
viable, estimate (based on published and unpublished sources such as
scientific publications, technical reports, databases or documented field
observations) the habitat area required to support the remaining population,
and habitat available within dispersal distance, and distance over which genetic
exchange can occur (e.g. seed dispersal) and pollination distance for the
species
iv. to determine changes in threats affecting remaining subpopulations and habitat
if the proposed impact proceeds, estimate changes in environmental factors
including changes to fire regimes (frequency, severity); hydrology, pollutants;
species interactions (increased competition and effects on pollinators or
dispersal); fragmentation, increased edge effects, likelihood of disturbance; and
disease, pathogens and parasites. Where these factors have been considered
elsewhere in relation to the target species, the assessor may refer to the
relevant sections of the BDAR or BCAR.
5. The assessor may also provide new information that can be used to demonstrate that
the principle identifying the species as at risk of an SAII, is inaccurate.
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2. The method for determining offset requirements for impacts on native vegetation is
described in Chapter 10.
3. An offset is not needed for impacts on native vegetation if the vegetation integrity score
is below those listed in Subsection 9.2.1(1.); however, if the entity is at risk of an SAII
the assessor will need to address the relevant criteria in Section 9.1 and include this in
the BDAR or BCAR.
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3. For flora species assessed by a count of the number of individuals, the assessor must
use Equation 3, within the BAM-C, to calculate the number of species credits, according
to the number of individuals in the species polygon (Subsection 5.2.5).
Equation 3 Determine the required number of flora species credits for the impact of
development, activity, clearing or biodiversity certification
4. If the required number of species credits calculated is not a whole number, it should be
rounded to the nearest whole number using conventional rounding rules. If the number
being rounded is less than 1, the number of credits should be rounded to 1.
5. The BDAR or BCAR must include the number of required species credits for each
threatened species.
6. The assessor must use the BAM-C to produce a biodiversity credit report. This report
sets out the number and class of species credits that measure the direct impact of the
proposal on species credit species.
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Threat status group Offset trading group tiers for ecosystem credits
Very high threat status Tier 1: PCTs in the same vegetation class with a
percentage cleared value ≥90% (being the name of the
vegetation class – percentage cleared value ≥90%)
High threat status Tier 2: PCTs in the same vegetation class with a percent
cleared value ≥70% and <90% (being the name of the
vegetation class – percentage cleared value ≥70% and
<90%)
Moderate threat status Tier 3: PCTs in the same vegetation class with a
percentage cleared value ≥50% and <70% (being the
name of the vegetation class – percentage cleared value
≥50% and <70%)
Low threat status Tier 4: PCTs in the same vegetation class with a
percentage cleared value <50% (being the name of the
vegetation class – percentage cleared value <50%)
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e. performance measures for each of the required management actions and active
restoration management actions in each management zone
f. a map of the management zones that shows the location of the required
management actions and any active restoration management actions. Management
zones usually replicate the area of a vegetation zone, a group of vegetation zones
or a threatened species polygon. Management zones may also be formed as a
subset of a vegetation zone to indicate where a different suite of management
actions occurs compared to elsewhere in the vegetation zone
g. a vegetation map of the TECs and PCTs
h. a map of vegetation zones prepared as per Subsection 4.3.1
i. a map that shows the location of any threatened species polygons prepared as per
Subsection 5.2.5.
2. The Site Map must show the boundary of the biodiversity stewardship agreement
including the cadastre (e.g. Lot and DP details), any area of the biodiversity stewardship
site that is subject to a legal obligation, such as a covenant, asset protection zone or
easement on the land title, because some or all of the required management actions
may not be able to be implemented in these areas.
3. For land that is subject to an existing legal obligation, the ability to create biodiversity
credits may be reduced if:
a. any of the required management actions cannot be implemented, or
b. the legal impediment requires management activities that are not ‘permissible’
under the biodiversity stewardship agreement.
4. At the end of the 20-year management plan, the landowner may apply for a variation to
the biodiversity stewardship agreement to replace the section of the management plan
required for Section 11.2(1.d.) with a new 20-year management plan. The assessor
must do this using Stage 1 and Stage 3 of the BAM.
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3. The assessor must ensure that the required management actions to create ecosystem
credits are compatible with the required management actions to create species credits.
The assessor must also ensure that required management actions to create species
credits are compatible with the required management actions to create species credits
for other species. Where the required management actions for a vegetation zone and a
threatened species polygon are not compatible, the assessor must specify the primary
conservation objective for that area of the biodiversity stewardship site in the BSSAR.
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11. Active restoration management actions may be used to create species credits if:
a. it is feasible to restore the habitat of the fauna species that is the target of the
proposed active restoration activities, or
b. the proposed active restoration activities are likely to result in the target flora
species being present and self-sustaining on the stewardship site, and
c. the proposed active restoration activities will be applied to the area or location of the
threatened species habitat that the species polygon identifies, and
d. the proposed restoration management activities and performance measures are set
out in the management plan.
12. For flora species assessed as numbers of individuals, active restoration management
actions can only be used to create credits if the BSSAR shows that the additional
individual plants can be self-sustaining on the biodiversity stewardship site. The
requirements for a BSSAR are in Box 4.
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Determine the future condition score for function attributes with required
management actions
7. Litter cover, stem diversity, length of logs and large trees are expected to increase over
20 years at the rate set out in the Intrinsic rates of increase tables published in the
BAM-C.
8. The assessor must use Equation 28 and Equation 32 to determine the future value of:
a. litter cover
b. number of tree stem size classes
c. number of large trees
d. total length of fallen logs (this is only assessed if the biodiversity stewardship site
has trees of >5 cm DBH).
9. Where regeneration is present on the biodiversity stewardship site at the start of the
management period, the BAM assumes that the biodiversity stewardship site will
continue to regenerate over the 20-year management period.
10. Appendix G details the probability of regeneration occurring at a biodiversity
stewardship site that has no regeneration at the start of the management period. A
biodiversity stewardship site is predicted to have no regeneration in 20 years if the
subject land has no stems of >20 cm DBH at the start of the management period.
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11. The number of stem size classes expected to be present excludes tree regeneration
(where the maximum stem diameter is <5 cm regardless of height) and the large tree
class.
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Number of ecosystem credits = the number of ecosystem credits created for the vegetation zone or
part of a vegetation zone under a different management regime
VI gain = the change (gain) in the vegetation integrity score of a vegetation zone at the biodiversity
stewardship site from management and averted loss and security benefit if applicable
area = the area of the vegetation zone or part of a vegetation zone under a different management
regime
Number of species credits created for ith fauna/flora species = 𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝑖𝑖 𝑥𝑥 𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝑖𝑖 𝑥𝑥 0.25
where:
Hgi = the gain in condition of the ith fauna/flora species habitat for each vegetation zone in the species
polygon, taken as the ∆VI gain determined in Equation 4
Ha = the area of habitat determined using the area of each vegetation zone within the species
polygon for the biodiversity stewardship site, prepared in accordance with Box 2
HCi x HLi is summed for each vegetation zone (or portion thereof) which occurs within the ith species
polygon
3. For flora species where the unit of measurement is the number of individuals, the
assessor must use Equation 6 to calculate the number of species credits created at the
biodiversity stewardship site.
Equation 6 Determine the number of flora species credits created at the biodiversity
stewardship site
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Table 9 Percentage reduction for ecosystem credits and species credits for a
biodiversity stewardship site on certain types of publicly owned land
2. For privately owned land, and land not covered by Table 9, the number of credits as
determined in Subsection 11.9.1 for the proposed stewardship agreement is reduced as
per the:
a. management actions that the landholder is already obliged to perform under the
existing obligation
b. percentage reduction for each management action in Table 10.
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Table 10 Percentage reduction for ecosystem credits and species credits for a
biodiversity stewardship site with existing conservation obligations
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Meteorology weather station with the WET and DRY rainfall thresholds within BioNet (if
available).
A full 12 months of data must be used to calculate cumulative rainfall. Once the appropriate
rainfall class has been determined, the assessor should consider the wet or dry benchmarks
for this class/IBRA and determine whether these benchmark data better reflect the local
environmental conditions before collecting local data.
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Public land that contain examples of PCTs that may satisfy the conditions for having the
best-on-offer reference sites include:
• travelling stock routes and reserves
• national parks and nature reserves
• state forests (especially flora reserves)
• cemeteries
• roadsides
• commons.
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Equation 7 Calculate the number of ecosystem credits required for clearing scattered trees
in class 2 and class 3
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Attribute (1.g.) is assigned as per the IBRA subregion in which the clearing occurs or mostly
occurs.
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Table 12 Area clearing limits for application of the small area development module
Minimum lot size associated with the Maximum area clearing limit for application
property * of the small area development module
Less than 1 ha ≤1 ha
1000 ha or more ≤5 ha
*shown in the lot size maps made under the relevant local environmental plan (LEP), or actual lot
size (where there is no minimum lot size provided for the relevant land under the LEP
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ii. No...... Go to 4.
4. Was the planted native vegetation (including individuals of a threatened flora
species) undertaken voluntarily for revegetation, environmental rehabilitation or
restoration without a legal obligation to secure or provide for management of the
native vegetation?
i. Yes ...... Go to D.2 Assessment of planted native vegetation for threatened species
habitat (the use of Chapters 4 and 5 of the BAM are not required to be
applied).
ii. No....... Go to 5.
5. Is the native vegetation (including individuals of a threatened flora species)
planted for functional, aesthetic, horticultural or plantation forestry purposes?
This includes examples such as: windbreaks in agricultural landscapes, roadside
plantings (including street trees, median strips, roadside batters), landscaping in
parks, gardens and sport fields/complexes, macadamia plantations or teatree
farms?
i. Yes .... Go to D.2 Assessment of planted native vegetation for threatened species
habitat (the use of Chapters 4 and 5 of the BAM are not required to be
applied).
ii. No...... Go to 6.
6. Is the planted native vegetation a species listed as a widely cultivated native
species on a list approved by the Secretary of the Department (or an officer
authorised by the Secretary)?
i. Yes .... Go to D.2 Assessment of planted native vegetation for threatened species
habitat (the use of Chapters 4 and 5 of the BAM are not required to be
applied).
ii. No...... There may be other types of occurrences of planted native vegetation that do
not easily fit into the decision-making key above. Assessors should contact
the BAM Support mailbox at [email protected] for
further advice on using the BAM to assess other types of occurrences of
planted native vegetation.
Evidence demonstrating the application of the decision-making key to the areas of planted
native vegetation must be provided in the BDAR or BCAR.
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There may be unforeseen types of planted native vegetation that do not easily fit into the
decision-making key above. In those circumstances contact the BAM Support mailbox at
[email protected] for further advice.
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If the top of the bank is defined, riparian buffer distances are measured on both sides of the
stream. Otherwise, buffer distances are measured from the edge of the stream; they are only
measured from the centre of the stream if the edge is not defined. If a stream has more than
one bank on either side, the bank closest to the main channel is used, to protect vegetation
on and within the stream banks.
Table 14 shows the riparian buffer distances for various types of water bodies. Riparian
buffer distances do not include the width of the water body.
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Equation 8 Determine the intrinsic rate of increase for growth form groups used to assess
composition
Equation 9 Determine the intrinsic rate of increase for growth form groups from active
management
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Equation 10 Assess the impact of native vegetation cover on the intrinsic rate of increase
1
𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 = 𝑣𝑣
1 + 𝑒𝑒 𝛽𝛽−𝜀𝜀
where:
PE = probability that new plants will disperse to and establish at the biodiversity stewardship site at
the intrinsic rate of increase expected in a patch of native vegetation
β = a constant to describe threshold behaviour in response to habitat loss
v = native vegetation cover in the landscape determined in Section 3.2
ε = a constant that describes the slope or rate of decline probabilities of dispersal and establishment
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Equation 11 Determine the impact of high threat exotic vegetation cover on the intrinsic rate
of increase
1.7 ×− 𝑙𝑙𝑙𝑙 2)
𝐸𝐸𝐸𝐸 = 𝑒𝑒 ((𝑥𝑥/𝑤𝑤)
where:
ER = the effect of exotic vegetation on the intrinsic rate of increase ir
x = the average observed value for cover of high threat exotic vegetation in the vegetation zone at
time = 0
w = a constant that varies according to the vegetation attribute (see Table 16)
Figure 4 Curve specified in Equation 11 to describe the effect of high threat exotic plants
on rates of gain in habitat attributes
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
1
𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 = 𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉
1 + 𝑒𝑒 𝑐𝑐−10
where:
PR = probability of natural recovery from existing soil seed banks and locally dispersed seed based
on the underlying site resilience
VI = total geometric mean vegetation integrity score at t=0
C = a constant that varies according to the vegetation attribute (see Table 16)
Areas of vegetation with low vegetation integrity are more likely to be those with less
resilience (e.g. higher soil nutrients, greater weed seed bank, lower diversity of soil
mycorrhiza) and hence poorer establishment success. High threat exotic vegetation will also
reduce the likelihood of success. The shape of this modifier is shown in Figure 5.
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Figure 5 Curve specified in Equation 12 to describe the effect of site resilience on rates of
gain in habitat attributes
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Figure 6 Cumulative likelihood of a successful tree regeneration event, P(R), over a 20-year
management timeframe
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0.25
𝑆𝑆 = 𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉
1 + 𝑒𝑒 (6+6𝑥𝑥−𝛼𝛼+6𝑥𝑥)
where:
S = probability of successful tree regeneration in a successive 5-year period
VI = total geometric mean vegetation integrity score at t=0
x = proportional cover of high threat exotic vegetation
α = constant that varies dependent on whether seed-producing trees are present (α=6) or absent
(α=20)
𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 = 1 − (1 − 𝑆𝑆)16
where:
prR = the probability of at least one successful tree regeneration event in 20 years
S = the probability of a successful tree regeneration event in any successive 5-year period from
Equation 13
2.5 ×− 𝑙𝑙𝑙𝑙 2)
𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻 = 𝑒𝑒 ((𝑥𝑥1−𝑥𝑥2 )/60))
where:
HTWm = the effect of exotic vegetation on the risk multiplier
x1 = the average observed value for cover of high threat exotic vegetation in the vegetation zone at
time = 0
x2 = the average observed value for cover of manageable high threat exotic vegetation in the
vegetation zone at time = 0
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Figure 7 shows the relationship between cover of high threat exotic vegetation, excluding
manageable high threat weeds, and the modifier used to calculate the maximum allowable
active restoration gains. It is used as part of Equation 35 to calculate the final risk weighting
applied to the target attribute value from active restoration.
Figure 7 Relationship between cover of high threat weed vegetation, excluding those that
are manageable high threat weeds, and modifier used to calculate the maximum
allowable active restoration gains
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Equation 16 is calculated for each growth form group shown in Table 2 based on the inputs:
• mean species richness of the growth form group recorded (observed) from all the plots
in the vegetation zone, or
• mean species richness of the growth form group considering the impacts of
development, clearing or biodiversity certification in the vegetation zone, or
• mean species richness of the growth form group from estimating the future value of
vegetation integrity attributes without management in the vegetation zone, or
• mean species richness of the growth form group from estimating the future value of
vegetation integrity attributes with management in the vegetation zone, and
• benchmark richness for that growth form group drawn from the BioNet Vegetation
Classification.
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Equation 16 Calculate unweighted condition score for each growth form group or relevant
function attribute in a vegetation zone
𝑥𝑥𝑥 2.5
−5� 𝑖𝑖�𝐵𝐵 �
𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑖𝑖 = 100.68 × (1 − 𝑒𝑒 𝑖𝑖 )
where:
UCSi = unweighted condition score for the ith growth form group (composition) or function attribute in
the vegetation zone
x̄ i = mean of species richness of the ith growth form group (composition) or function attribute among
plots within the vegetation zone (observed or predicted future)
Bi = benchmark value for the ith growth form group for composition or function attribute (from BioNet
Vegetation Classification)
The assessor must apply dynamic weights to unweighted composition condition scores for
each growth form group based on the proportional contribution of each growth form group’s
benchmark richness to the benchmark total richness (sum of benchmark richness across all
growth form groups); see Equation 17.
Equation 17 Calculate dynamic weight for each composition growth form group
𝑛𝑛
The composition condition score for the zone is calculated as the sum of the products of
unweighted condition scores and their dynamic weights for each growth form group using
Equation 18.
𝑛𝑛
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Equation 19 is used to calculate the cover score of each structure growth form group shown
in Table 2 based on the inputs:
• mean cover for the growth form group recorded (observed) from all plots/transects in the
vegetation zone, or
• mean cover for the growth form group taking into account the impacts of development,
clearing or biodiversity certification in the vegetation zone, or
• mean cover for the growth form group from estimating the future value of vegetation
integrity attributes without management in the vegetation zone, or
• mean cover for the growth form group from estimating the future value of vegetation
integrity attributes with management in the vegetation zone, and
• benchmark cover for the growth form group drawn from the benchmarks database.
Equation 19 Calculate unweighted structure condition score for each growth form group in a
vegetation zone
2.5
−5�𝑥𝑥𝑥𝑖𝑖�𝐵𝐵 �
𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑈𝑖𝑖 = 100.68 × (1 − 𝑒𝑒 𝑖𝑖 )
where:
USSi = unweighted structure score for the ith growth form group or function attribute in the vegetation
zone
x̄ i = mean cover of the ith growth form group or function attribute among plots within the vegetation
zone (observed or predicted future cover)
Bi = benchmark value for the ith growth form group for structure or function attribute (from benchmarks
database)
Using Equation 20, the assessor must apply dynamic weights to unweighted structure
scores for each growth form group, based on the proportional contribution of each growth
form group’s benchmark cover, to the total benchmark cover (sum of benchmark cover
across all growth form groups).
Equation 20 Calculate dynamic weight for each structure growth form group
𝑛𝑛
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Number of stem size Large tree Large tree Large tree Large tree
classes present (not benchmark benchmark benchmark benchmark
including large trees or size size size size
regenerating trees) (≥80cm DBH) (≥50cm DBH) (≥30cm DBH) (≥20cm DBH)
None 0 0 0 0
One 9 15 28 59
Two 40 59 85 100
Three 76 92 100 n/a
Four 95 100 n/a n/a
Five 100 n/a n/a n/a
DBH = diameter at breast height over bark; n/a = not applicable
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The function condition score for the zone is calculated as the sum of the products of
unweighted condition scores and their static weights (Table 17) for each attribute, using
Equation 22.
3
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 𝑥𝑥 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹
where:
VI = current vegetation integrity score for the zone
CCS = composition condition score for the zone
SCS = structure condition score for the zone
FCS = function condition score for the zone
The assessor must use Equation 24 to determine the vegetation integrity score for PCTs
classified under:
• vegetation formations that are freshwater wetlands, saline wetlands, grasslands, alpine
complex or arid shrublands
• vegetation classes that are Southern Montane Heaths, South Coast Heaths or Coastal
Headland Heaths.
2
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆
where:
VI = current vegetation integrity score for the zone
CCS = composition condition score for the zone
SCS = structure condition score for the zone
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3
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 𝑥𝑥 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹
where:
VID = future vegetation integrity score taking into account the impacts of development, clearing or
conferral of biodiversity certification
CS = future composition condition score for the zone
SS = future structure condition score for the zone
FS = future function condition score for the zone
The assessor must use Equation 26 to determine the future vegetation integrity score for a
zone for PCTs classified under:
• vegetation formations that are freshwater wetlands, saline wetlands, grasslands, alpine
complex or arid shrublands
• vegetation classes that are Southern Montane Heaths, South Coast Heaths or Coastal
Headland Heaths.
2
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆
where:
VID = future vegetation integrity score taking into account the impacts of development, clearing or
conferral of biodiversity certification
CS = future composition condition score for the zone
SS = future structure condition score for the zone
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Equation 27 Calculate change in vegetation integrity score at the development site or land to
be biodiversity certified
Note: The loss in vegetation integrity for a vegetation zone or a species polygon is used in
Section 10.1 to determine the offset requirement.
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Once the assessor has determined the future value of the attribute without a biodiversity
stewardship agreement, they can use the future value of the attribute to determine the:
• composition condition score without management
• structure condition score without management
• function condition score without management.
Future attribute values, without a biodiversity stewardship agreement, are converted to
composition, structure and function condition scores using Equations 16–22.
The assessor must use Equation 29 to determine the future vegetation integrity score
without management for PCTs classified under:
• vegetation formations that are rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, dry sclerophyll
forests, forested wetlands, grassy woodlands or semi-arid woodlands
• vegetation classes that are Wallum Sand Heaths, Sydney Coastal Heaths, Northern
Montane Heaths or Sydney Montane Heaths.
Equation 29 Calculate vegetation integrity score for treed systems without management
3
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 𝑥𝑥 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹
where:
VIal = the vegetation integrity score with averted loss taking into account the decline in vegetation
integrity without management
CCS = composition condition score with averted loss for the zone taking into account the decline in
composition without management
SCS = structure condition score with averted loss for the zone taking into account the decline in
structure without management
FCS = function condition score with averted loss for the zone taking into account the decline in
function without management
The assessor must use Equation 30 to determine the vegetation integrity score for PCTs
classified under:
• vegetation formations that are freshwater wetlands, saline wetlands, grasslands, alpine
complex or arid shrublands
• vegetation classes that are Southern Montane Heaths, South Coast Heaths or Coastal
Headland Heaths.
Equation 30 Calculate vegetation integrity score for non-treed systems without management
2
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆
where:
VIal = the vegetation integrity score with averted loss taking into account the decline in vegetation
integrity without management
CCS = composition condition score with averted loss for the zone taking into account the decline in
composition without management
SCS = structure condition score with averted loss for the zone taking into account the decline in
structure without management
99
Biodiversity Assessment Method
𝐶𝐶
(𝐾𝐾𝑖𝑖 ) 𝑥𝑥 𝑒𝑒 𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟
𝑖𝑖
𝑃𝑃𝑖𝑖 =
𝐶𝐶
1 + �𝐾𝐾𝑖𝑖 � 𝑥𝑥 (𝑒𝑒 𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 − 1)
𝑖𝑖
where:
Pi = probability of specific attribute or growth form group reaching benchmark condition in the
vegetation zone at the end of the management timeframe
Ki = the benchmark value for the specific attribute or growth form group
Ci = the current value of an attribute in a vegetation zone determined using Equation 16 for functional
attributes, Equation 18 for composition attributes and Equation 21 for structure attributes at time = 0
r = intrinsic rate of increase for the attribute or growth form group
t = management timeframe (20 years)
Equation 32 Future value of attributes used to assess composition, structure and function
with management
FV1 = Pi x Ki
where:
FV1 = the future value of the attribute at t=20 years
Pi = the predicted probability of benchmark value at t=20 years
Ki = the estimated benchmark value for the ith attribute
Once the assessor has determined the future value of the attribute with management, the
future value of the attribute is used to determine the:
• composition condition score with management
• structure condition score with management
• function condition score with management.
Future attribute values, with management (required and/or active restoration), are converted
to composition, structure and function condition scores using Equations 16–22.
100
Biodiversity Assessment Method
3
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆 𝑥𝑥 𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹𝐹
2
𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉𝑉 = √𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 𝑥𝑥 𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆𝑆
where:
VIwm = future vegetation integrity score taking into account the gain in vegetation integrity from
required management or active restoration
CCS = composition condition score for the zone taking into account the gain in vegetation integrity
from required and any active restoration management actions
SCS = structure condition score for the zone taking into account the gain from required and any active
restoration management actions
FCS = function condition score for the zone taking into account the gain from required and any active
restoration management actions
101
Biodiversity Assessment Method
• the difference, after 20 years, between the predicted attribute value determined for the
required management actions and the target value for the attribute from undertaking the
active restoration management actions
• application of the final restoration risk weighting, determined using Equation 35, to the
target value to determine the maximum allowable gain for each condition attribute.
The maximum allowable gain for each condition attribute is then used in Equation 33 or
Equation 34 to determine the future vegetation integrity score with active restoration.
The final risk weighting that is applied to the target attribute value from active restoration is
calculated using Equation 35, which is based on the:
• initial restoration risk weighting of 0.3 for each target attribute
• high threat exotic vegetation modifier based on the cover of high threat exotic
vegetation present at the stewardship site, as determined using Equation 15 and
Figure 7.
Equation 36 Calculate the difference between future value with management and proposed
target with risk weighting
RG = Ri × (Tv – FV1)
where:
RG = restoration gain
Tv = proposed target active restoration value
FV1 is the future attribute value with management
102
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Sensitivity to gain
Ecosystem credit species (based on the species with the highest
Sensitivity to loss sensitivity impacted by the development, or biodiversity certification)
Ecological communities Very high High Medium Low
and PCTs (x 3) (x 2) (x 1.5) (x 1)
CEEC or a PCT
≥90% cleared; 3 2.5 2.25 2.0
very high sensitivity (x 3)
EEC or a PCT
≥70% – <90% cleared; 2.5 2.0 1.75 1.5
high sensitivity (x 2)
VEC or a PCT
≥50% – <70% cleared; 2.25 1.75 1.5 1.25
moderate sensitivity (x 1.5)
PCT
<50% cleared; 2.0 1.5 1.25 1
low sensitivity (x 1)
CEEC = critically endangered ecological community; EEC = endangered ecological community; PCT = plant
community type; VEC = vulnerable ecological community
A PCT or TEC that does not provide habitat for threatened species assessed for ecosystem
credits will have a low sensitivity to gain value (x 1) to determine the biodiversity risk
weighting for the vegetation zone.
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
The biodiversity risk weighting for determining the credit requirement for species credits is
based on the sensitivity to loss and the sensitivity to gain for the species (see Table 20). The
BAM-C applies the biodiversity risk weighting to the area of impact for the species-based site
survey data the assessor collected in Stage 1 and the impact assessment outcomes the
assessor determined in Stage 2.
Sensitivity to gain
Sensitivity to loss Very high High Moderate Low
High – endangered or
3 2 2 1.5
high sensitivity to loss
Moderate – vulnerable
or moderate sensitivity 3 2 1.5 1
to loss
The criteria used to determine the sensitivity to loss class for a threatened entity are in
Table 21. The criteria used to determine the sensitivity to gain class for a threatened entity
are in Table 22.
104
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Table 21 Sensitivity to loss class (threatened species, ecological communities and plant
community types)
105
Biodiversity Assessment Method
106
Biodiversity Assessment Method
107
Biodiversity Assessment Method
108
Biodiversity Assessment Method
109
Biodiversity Assessment Method
J.5.1 Suitability for reservation of land under the National Parks and
Wildlife Act
Reservation of land under Part 4 of the NPW Act must only be proposed as a conservation
measure with the written consent of the relevant authorised National Parks and Wildlife
Service (NPWS) Manager. NPWS will only accept land that it determines to be suitable for
reservation. No commitment can be made to accept an offset that includes the reservation of
land under the NPW Act without the written agreement of the Minister administering the
NPW Act, or authorised delegate.
Additional requirements for reservation of land under the NPW Act to be used as a
conservation measure must include:
a. a management plan outlining ongoing management actions, which must be
negotiated with NPWS
b. provision of funds for ongoing management – these management funds would need
to be negotiated with NPWS and secured under a biodiversity certification agreement
c. subdivision of land where the landholding is to be split between the developable
area and an area to be reserved
d. a biodiversity certification agreement committing the landowner to the land transfer
within a certain timeframe and describing future funding arrangements.
110
Biodiversity Assessment Method
111
Biodiversity Assessment Method
112
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Note that these values are not additive. The highest weighting relevant to the proposed land-
based conservation measure will apply.
The weighting is to be applied manually to the number of credits determined through the
BAM-C.
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
○ reservation of land under the NPW Act (declared strategic biodiversity certifications
only)
○ adoption of development controls under the EP&A Act that conserve or enhance the
natural environment (declared strategic biodiversity certifications only)
○ special infrastructure contributions that conserve or enhance the natural
environment (declared strategic biodiversity certifications only)
○ any other measure determined to be an approved conservation measure by the
Minister for Energy and Environment (declared strategic biodiversity certifications
only)
• legal mechanisms for securing delivery of proposed conservation measures
• parties to the biodiversity certification and responsibilities, noting where biodiversity
certification agreements are proposed
• timing for delivery of conservation measures
• funding sources for delivery of conservation measures
• framework for monitoring, reporting or auditing implementation of conservation
measures.
114
Biodiversity Assessment Method
115
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Table 24 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity Development Assessment Report and the Biodiversity Certification
Assessment Report – Stage 1: Biodiversity assessment
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Introduction Chapters 2 INFORMATION
and 3 Introduction to the biodiversity assessment including:
☐ brief description of the proposal
☐ identification of subject land 1 boundary, including:
☐ operational footprint (if BDAR)
☐ construction footprint indicating clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and
infrastructure (if BDAR)
☐ land proposed for biodiversity certification (if BCAR)
☐ general description of the subject land
☐ sources of information used in the assessment, including reports and spatial data
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of the subject land boundary showing the final proposal footprint, including the construction footprint for any
clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and infrastructure (if BDAR)
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Landscape Sections INFORMATION
context 3.1 and 3.2, Identification of site context components and landscape features, including:
Appendix E ☐ general description of subject land topographic and hydrological setting, geology and soils
☐ percent native vegetation cover in the assessment area (as described in BAM Section 3.2)
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(2.))
☐ rivers and streams classified according to stream order (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(3.) and Appendix E)
☐ wetlands within, adjacent to and downstream of the site (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(3.))
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(5–6.))
☐ karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks and other geological features of significance and for vegetation clearing
proposals, soil hazard features (as described in BAM Subsections 3.1.3(7.) and 3.1.3(12.)
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value occurring on the subject land and assessment area (as described in BAM
Subsection 3.1.3(8–9.))
☐ any additional landscape features identified in any SEARs for the proposal
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ NSW (Mitchell) landscape on which the subject land occurs
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Site Map
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ Cadastre of subject land
☐ Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ Location Map
☐ Digital aerial photography at 1:1,000 scale or finer
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ Assessment area, (i.e. the subject land and either 1500 m buffer area or 500 m buffer for linear development
☐ Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ Additional detail (e.g. local government area boundaries) relevant at this scale
Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3 and to be shown on the Site Map and/or Location map include:
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions
☐ rivers, streams and estuaries
☐ wetlands and important wetlands
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat
☐ karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks and other geological features of significance and if required, soil hazard features
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value occurring on the subject land and assessment area
☐ any additional landscape features identified in any SEARs for the proposal
☐ NSW (Mitchell) landscape on which the subject land occurs
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
Individual digital shape files of:
☐ subject land boundary
☐ assessment area (i.e. subject land and 1500 m buffer area) boundary
☐ cadastral boundary of subject land
☐ areas of native vegetation cover
☐ landscape features
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Native Chapter 4, INFORMATION
vegetation Appendix A ☐ Identify native vegetation extent within the subject land, including cleared areas and evidence to support differences
and between mapped vegetation extent and aerial imagery (as described in BAM Section 4.1(1–3.) and Subsection 4.1.1)
Appendix H ☐ Provide justification for all parts of the subject land that do not contain native vegetation (as described in BAM
Subsection 4.1.2)
☐ Review of existing information on native vegetation including references to previous vegetation maps of the subject
land and assessment area (described in BAM Section 4.1(3.) and Subsection 4.1.1)
☐ Describe the systematic field-based floristic vegetation survey undertaken in accordance with BAM Section 4.2
☐ Where relevant, describe the use of more appropriate local data, provide reasons that support the use of more
appropriate local data and include the written confirmation from the decision-maker that they support the use of more
appropriate local data (as described in BAM Subsection 1.4.2 and Appendix A)
For each PCT within the subject land, describe:
☐ vegetation class
☐ extent (ha) within subject land
☐ evidence used to identify a PCT including any analyses undertaken, references/sources, existing vegetation maps
(BAM Section 4.2(1–3.))
☐ plant species relied upon for identification of the PCT and relative abundance of each species
☐ if relevant, TEC status including evidence used to determine vegetation is the TEC (BAM Subsection 4.2.2(1–2.))
☐ estimate of percent cleared value of PCT (BAM Subsection 4.2.1(5.))
Describe the vegetation integrity assessment of the subject land, including:
☐ identification and mapping of vegetation zones (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.1)
☐ assessment of patch size (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.2)
☐ survey effort (i.e. number of vegetation integrity survey plots) as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.4(1–2.)
☐ use of relevant benchmark data from BioNet Vegetation Classification (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.3(5.))
Where use of more appropriate local benchmark data is proposed (as described in BAM Subsection 1.4.2, BAM
Subsection 4.3.3(5.) and BAM Appendix A):
☐ identify the PCT or vegetation class for which local benchmark data will be applied
☐ identify published sources of local benchmark data (if benchmarks obtained from published sources)
☐ describe methods of local benchmark data collection (if reference plots used to determine local benchmark data)
☐ provide justification for use of local data rather than BioNet Vegetation Classification benchmark values
☐ provide written confirmation from the decision-maker that they support the use of local benchmark data
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of native vegetation extent within the subject land at scale not greater than 1:10,000 including identification of
cleared areas (as described in BAM Section 4.1(1–3.)) and all parts of the subject land that do not contain native
vegetation (BAM Subsection 4.1.2)
☐ Map of PCTs within the subject land (as described in BAM Section 4.2(1.))
☐ Map of vegetation zones within the subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.1)
☐ Map the location of floristic vegetation survey plots and vegetation integrity survey plots relative to PCTs boundaries
☐ Map of TEC distribution on the subject land and table of TEC listing, status and area (ha)
☐ Map of patch size locations for each native vegetation zone and table of patch size areas (as described in BAM
Subsection 4.3.2)
Table of current vegetation integrity scores for each vegetation zone within the site and including:
☐ composition condition score
☐ structure condition score
☐ function condition score
☐ presence of hollow bearing trees
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
☐ Plot field data (MS Excel format)
☐ Plot field data sheets
Digital shape files of:
☐ PCT boundaries within subject land
☐ TEC boundaries within subject land
☐ vegetation zone boundaries within subject land
☐ floristic vegetation survey and vegetation integrity plot locations
Threatened Chapter 5 INFORMATION
species Identify ecosystem credit species likely to occur on the subject land, including:
☐ list of ecosystem credit species derived from the BAM-C (as described in BAM Subsection 5.1.1 and Section
5.2(1.))
☐ justification and supporting evidence for exclusion of any ecosystem credit species based on geographic
limitations, habitat constraints or vagrancy (as described in BAM Subsections 5.2.1 and 5.2.2)
☐ justification for addition of any ecosystem credit species to the list
119
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Identify species credit species likely to occur on the subject land, including:
☐ list of species credit species derived from the BAM-C (as described in BAM Subsection 5.1.1)
☐ justification and supporting evidence for exclusions based on geographic limitations, habitat constraints or
vagrancy (as described in BAM Subsections 5.2.1 and 5.2.2)
☐ justification and supporting evidence for exclusions based on degraded habitat constraints and/or microhabitats on
which the species depends (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.2)
☐ justification for addition of any species credit species to the list
From the list of candidate species credit species, identify:
☐ species assumed present within the subject land (if relevant) (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.4(2.a.))
☐ species present within the subject land on the basis of being identified on an important habitat map for a species
(as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.4(2.d.))
☐ species for which targeted surveys are to be completed to determine species presence (Subsection 5.2.4(2.b.))
☐ species for which an expert report is to be used to determine species presence (Subsection 5.2.4(2.c.))
Present the outcomes of species credit species assessments from:
☐ threatened species survey (as described in BAM Section 5.2.4)
☐ expert reports (if relevant) including justification for presence of the species and information used to make this
determination (as described in BAM Section 5.2.4 and 5.3, Box 3)
Where survey has been undertaken include detailed information on:
☐ survey method and effort, (as described in BAM Section 5.3)
☐ justification of survey method and effort (e.g. citation of peer-reviewed literature) if approach differs from the
Department’s taxa-specific survey guides or where no relevant guideline has been published
☐ timing of survey in relation to requirements in the TBDC or the Department’s taxa-specific survey guides. Where
survey was undertaken outside these guides include justification for the timing of surveys
☐ survey personnel and relevant experience
☐ describe any limitations to surveys and how these were addressed/overcome
Where an expert report has been used in place of survey (as described in BAM Section 5.3, Box 3), include:
☐ justification of the use of an expert report
☐ identify the expert, provide evidence of their expert credentials and Departmental approval of expert status
☐ all requirements of Box 3 have been addressed in the expert report
120
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Where use of local data is proposed (BAM Subsection 1.4.2):
☐ identify relevant species
☐ identify data to be amended
☐ identify source of information for local data, e.g. published literature, additional survey data, etc.
☐ justify use of local data in preference to VIS Classification or TBDC data
☐ provide written confirmation from the decision-maker that they support the use of local data
Species polygon completed for species credit species present within the subject land (assumed present or determined on
the basis of survey, expert report or important habitat map) ensuring that:
☐ the unit of measure for each species is documented
for species assessed by area:
☐ the polygon includes the extent of suitable habitat for the target species within the subject land (as described in
BAM Subsection 5.2.5)
☐ a description of, and evidence-based justification for, the habitat constraints, features or microhabitats used to
map the species polygon including reference to information in the TBDC for that species and any buffers
applied
for species assessed by counts of individuals:
☐ the number of individual plants present on the subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(3.))
☐ the method used to derive this number (i.e. threatened species survey or expert report) and evidence-based
justification for the approach taken
☐ the polygon includes all individuals located on the subject land with a buffer of 30 m around the individuals or
groups of individuals on the subject land
☐ Identify the biodiversity risk weighting for each species credit species identified as present within the subject land (as
described in BAM Section 5.4)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing ecosystem credit species in accordance with BAM Section 5.1.1, and identifying:
☐ the ecosystem credit species removed from the list
☐ the sensitivity to gain class of each species
☐ Table detailing species credit species in accordance with BAM section 5.2 and identifying:
☐ the species credit species removed from the list of species because the species is considered vagrant, out of
geographic range or the habitat or micro habitat features are not present
☐ the candidate species credit species not recorded on the subject land as determined by targeted survey, expert
report or important habitat map
121
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ Table detailing species credit species recorded or assumed as present within the subject land, habitat constraints or
microhabitats associated with the species, counts of individuals (flora)/extent of suitable habitat (flora and fauna) (as
described in BAM Subsection 5.2.6) and biodiversity risk weighting (BAM Section 5.4)
☐ Map indicating the GPS coordinates of all individuals of each species recorded within the subject land and the species
polygon for each species (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of suitable habitat identified for survey for each candidate species credit species
☐ Survey locations including GPS coordinates of any plots, transects, grids
☐ Digital shape files of each species polygon including GPS coordinates of located individuals
☐ Species polygon map in jpeg format
☐ Expert reports and any supporting data used to support conclusions of the expert report
☐ Field data sheets detailing survey information including prevailing conditions, date, time, equipment used, etc.
Prescribed Chapter 6 INFORMATION
impacts Identify potential prescribed biodiversity impacts on threatened entities, including:
☐ karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks and other geological features of significance (as described in BAM Subsection
6.1.1)
☐ occurrences of human-made structures and non-native vegetation (as described in BAM Subsection 6.1.2)
☐ corridors or other areas of connectivity linking habitat for threatened entities (as described in BAM Subsection
6.1.3)
☐ water bodies or any hydrological processes that sustain threatened entities (as described in BAM Subsection
6.1.4)
☐ protected animals that may use the proposed wind farm development site as a flyway or migration route (as
described in BAM Subsection 6.1.5)
☐ where the proposed development may result in vehicle strike on threatened fauna or on animals that are part of a
threatened ecological community (as described in BAM Subsection 6.1.6)
☐ Identify a list of threatened entities that may be dependent upon or may use habitat features associated with any of
the prescribed impacts
☐ Describe the importance of habitat features to the species including, where relevant, impacts on life-cycle or
movement patterns (e.g. Subsection 6.1.3)
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Where the proposed development is for a wind farm:
☐ identify a candidate list of protected animals that may use the development site as a flyway or migration route,
including: resident threatened aerial species, resident raptor species and nomadic and migratory species that are
likely to fly over the proposal area (as described in BAM Subsection 6.1.5)
☐ provide details of targeted survey for candidate species of wind farm developments undertaken in accordance with
BAM Subsection 6.1.5(2–3.)
☐ predict the habitual flight paths for nomadic and migratory species likely to fly over the subject land and map the
likely habitat for resident threatened aerial and raptor species (BAM Subsection 6.1.5(4.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map showing location of any prescribed impact features (i.e. karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks, human-made
structures, etc.)
☐ Maps of habitual flight paths for nomadic and migratory species likely to fly over the site and maps of likely habitat for
threatened aerial species resident on the site (for wind farm developments only)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of prescribed impact feature locations
☐ Prescribed impact features map in jpeg format
123
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Table 25 Minimum information requirements for the BDAR or BCAR – Stage 2: Impact assessment (biodiversity values)
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Avoid and Chapter 7 INFORMATION
minimise Demonstration of efforts to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values (including prescribed impacts) associated
impacts with the proposal location in accordance with Chapter 7, including an analysis of alternative:
☐ modes or technologies that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting
the proposed mode or technology
☐ routes that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting the proposed route
☐ alternative locations that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting the
proposed location
☐ alternative sites within a property on which the proposal is located that would avoid or minimise impacts on
biodiversity values and justification for selecting the proposed site
☐ Describe efforts to avoid and minimise impacts (including prescribed impacts) to biodiversity values through proposal
design (as described in BAM Sections 7.1 and 7.2)
☐ Identification of any other site constraints that the proponent has considered in determining the location and design of
the proposal (as described in BAM Section 7.2.1(3.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented to avoid and minimise the impacts of the proposal, including action, outcome,
timing and responsibility
☐ Map of alternative footprints considered to avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values; and of the final proposal
footprint, including construction and operation
☐ Maps demonstrating indirect impact zones where applicable
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ alternative and final proposal footprint
☐ direct and indirect impact zones
☐ Maps in jpeg format
124
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Assessment of Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Impacts Sections ☐ Determine the impacts on native vegetation and threatened species habitat, including a description of direct impacts
8.1 and 8.2 of clearing of native vegetation, threatened ecological communities and threatened species habitat (as described in
BAM Section 8.1)
Assessment of indirect impacts on vegetation and threatened species and their habitat including (as described in BAM
Section 8.2):
☐ description of the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of indirect impacts of the proposal
☐ documenting the consequences to vegetation and threatened species and their habitat including evidence-based
justifications
☐ reporting any limitations or assumptions, etc. made during the assessment
☐ identification of the threatened entities and their habitat likely to be affected
Assessment of prescribed biodiversity impacts (as described in BAM Section 8.3) including:
assessment of the nature, extent and duration of impacts on the habitat of threatened species or ecological
communities associated with:
☐ karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks and other features of geological significance
☐ human-made structures
☐ non-native vegetation
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat of threatened species that facilitates the movement of those species
across their range
☐ movement of threatened species that maintains their life cycle
☐ water quality, water bodies and hydrological processes that sustain threatened species and threatened
ecological communities
☐ assessment of the impacts of wind turbine strikes on protected animals
☐ assessment of the impacts of vehicle strikes on threatened species of animals or on animals that are part of a TEC
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing change in vegetation integrity score for each vegetation zone as a result of identified impacts
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Mitigation and Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Management of Sections Identification of measures to mitigate or manage impacts in accordance with the recommendations in BAM Sections 8.4
Impacts 8.4 and 8.5 and 8.5 including:
☐ techniques, timing, frequency and responsibility
☐ identify measures for which there is risk of failure
☐ evaluate the risk and consequence of any residual impacts
☐ document any adaptive management strategy proposed
Identification of measures for mitigating impacts related to:
☐ displacement of resident fauna (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(2.))
☐ indirect impacts on native vegetation and habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(3.))
☐ mitigating prescribed biodiversity impacts (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.2)
☐ Details of the adaptive management strategy proposed to monitor and respond to impacts on biodiversity values that
are uncertain (BAM Section 8.5)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented to mitigate and manage impacts of the proposal, including action, outcome,
timing and responsibility
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Impact Chapter 9 INFORMATION
Summary Identification and assessment of impacts on TECs and threatened species that are at risk of a serious and irreversible
impacts (SAII, in accordance with BAM Section 9.1) including:
☐ addressing all criteria in Subsection 9.1.1 for each TEC listed as at risk of an SAII present on the subject land
☐ addressing all criteria in Subsection 9.1.2 for each threatened species at risk of an SAII present on the subject land
☐ documenting assumptions made and/or limitations to information
☐ documenting all sources of data, information, references used or consulted
☐ clearly justifying why any criteria could not be addressed
☐ Identification of impacts requiring offset in accordance with BAM Section 9.2
☐ Identification of impacts not requiring offset in accordance with BAM Subsection 9.2.1(3.)
☐ Identification of areas not requiring assessment in accordance with BAM Section 9.3
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map showing the extent of TECs at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ Map showing location of threatened species at risk of an SAII within the subject land
Map showing location of:
☐ impacts requiring offset
☐ impacts not requiring offset
☐ areas not requiring assessment
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ extent of TECs at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ location of threatened species at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ boundary of impacts requiring offset
☐ boundary of impacts not requiring offset
☐ boundary of areas not requiring assessment
☐ Maps in jpeg format
Impact Chapter 10 INFORMATION
Summary Ecosystem credits and species credits that measure the impact of the development on biodiversity values, including:
☐ future vegetation integrity score for each vegetation zone within the subject land (Equation 25 and Equation 26 in
BAM Appendix H)
☐ change in vegetation integrity score (BAM Subsection 8.1.1)
☐ number of required ecosystem credits for the direct impacts of the proposal on each vegetation zone within the
subject land (BAM Subsection 9)
☐ number of required species credits for each candidate threatened species that is directly impacted on by the
proposal (BAM Subsection 10.1.3)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of PCTs requiring offset and the number of ecosystem credits required
☐ Table of threatened species requiring offset and the number of species credits required
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Submitted proposal in the BAM Calculator
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Biodiversity Chapter 10 INFORMATION
credit report ☐ Description of credit classes for ecosystem credits and species credits at the development or clearing site or land to
be biodiversity certified (BAM Section 10.2)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of credit class and matching credit profile
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ BAM credit report in pdf format
Biodiversity Chapter 12 INFORMATION
certification and Land-based conservation measures including (strategic biodiversity certification only):
offsets and Appendix J ☐ identification of parcels subject to land-based conservation measures
strategy
☐ identification of land-based conservation measures proposed for each parcel
(biodiversity
certification ☐ supporting information to demonstrate suitability of land-based conservation measures (Appendix J)
only) ☐ credit score of land-based conservation measures (Appendix J)
Biodiversity certification strategy including:
☐ land proposed for biodiversity certification
☐ land proposed for biodiversity conservation
☐ proposed conservation measures
☐ legal mechanisms for securing delivery of proposed conservation measures
☐ parties to the biodiversity certification and responsibilities, noting where biodiversity certification agreements are
proposed
☐ timing for delivery of conservation measures
☐ funding sources for delivery of conservation measures
☐ framework for monitoring, reporting or auditing implementation of conservation measures
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Maps of parcels of land proposed for land-based conservation measures
☐ Maps as per Appendix M as required in relation to any land-based conservation measures
☐ Tables as per Appendix M as required in relation to any land-based conservation measures
☐ Table of credit scores for land-based conservation measures, including scores produced by BAM and weighting
adjusted scores as per Appendix J
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of parcels of land proposed for land-based conservation measures
☐ Maps in jpeg format
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Introduction Chapters 2 INFORMATION
and 3 Introduction to the biodiversity assessment including:
☐ brief description of proposal
☐ identification of subject land 2 boundary, including:
☐ operational footprint
☐ construction footprint indicating clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and
infrastructure
☐ general description of the subject land
☐ sources of information used in the assessment, including reports and spatial data
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of the subject land boundary showing the final proposal footprint, including the construction footprint for any
clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and infrastructure (if BDAR)
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Landscape Sections INFORMATION
context 3.1 and 3.2, Identification of site context components and landscape features at the proposed site, including:
Appendix E ☐ general description of subject land topographic and hydrological setting, geology and soils
☐ identification of assessment method applied
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(2.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Site Map
☐ Boundary of subject land
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ Cadastre of subject land
☐ Location Map
☐ Digital aerial photography at 1:1,000 scale or finer)
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
Individual digital shape files of:
☐ subject land boundary
☐ cadastral boundary of subject land
Definition of Appendix B INFORMATION
scattered trees B.1 ☐ Justification of how the trees proposed to be cleared or impacted meet the definition of scattered trees (BAM
Appendix B, Section B.1 (a–c)):
a.
− have a percent foliage cover that is less than 25% of the benchmark for tree cover for the most likely plant
community type, and
− are on Category 2 regulated land and surrounded by Category 1 exempt land on the Native Vegetation
Regulatory Map under the LLS Act, or
b.
− have a DBH of greater than or equal to 5 cm and are located more than 50 m away from any living tree that is
greater than or equal to 5 cm DBH, and are completely separated by
− 100% exotic vegetation, human-made surfaces or bare ground, or
c.
− are three or fewer trees that have a DBH of greater than or equal to 5 cm and are within a distance of 50 m of
each other,
− that in turn, are greater than 50 m away from the nearest living tree that is greater than or equal to 5 cm DBH,
and are completely separated by
− 100% exotic vegetation, human-made surfaces or bare ground.
☐ Description of the assessment of ground cover, demonstrating how the ground cover was assessed during the time of
year when the proportion of native ground cover on the subject land is likely to be at its maximum compared to that of
exotic ground cover?
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of scattered trees proposed to be cleared or impacted on the subject land including:
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ showing areas of category 1 and 2 land on the Native Vegetation Regulatory Map
☐ distances between living trees
☐ living trees greater than 20 cm DBH
☐ area of native and non-native ground cover
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
☐ Digital shape files for all maps and spatial data
Scattered tree Appendix B INFORMATION
class B.2 and B.3 ☐ Record the genus and species of each tree
assessment ☐ Record the class assigned in B.2(c.)
☐ Record of any sightings (e.g. in hollows) or evidence (e.g. scats) of threatened species (flora or fauna) using the
scattered trees
Note: If a threatened species has been recorded using the scattered tree as habitat, this streamlined assessment module
must not be applied to assess the threatened species. The assessment of threatened species must be undertaken in
accordance with Chapter 5 of the BAM.
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of scattered trees proposed to be cleared or impacted on the subject land including:
☐ genus and species of each tree, and
☐ the class assigned in B.2(c.)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
☐ Digital shape files for all maps and spatial data
Assessment of Appendix B INFORMATION
entities at risk of B.4 (& BAM ☐ List of the candidate entities at risk of an SAII (BAM Section 9.1) generated by the BAM-C that are likely to use, or
an SAII Section 9.1) occur on the subject land, based on the IBRA subregion in which the proposal is located, and whether any threatened
species are likely to use a scattered tree for habitat (refer to the TBDC). This information can be presented in the
Maps and Tables below
☐ Description of the species, any habitat constraints or microhabitats associated with the species on the subject land in
accordance with Steps 3 to 4 of BAM Section 5.2 including:
☐ justification for determining that a candidate species credit species at risk of an SAII is unlikely to have suitable
habitat on the subject land (based on a field assessment of the subject land and published literature or an expert
report prepared in accordance with Box 3 of the BAM)
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ list of candidate species at risk of an SAII for which targeted surveys were undertaken to determine species
presence/absence
☐ list of candidate species at risk of an SAII for which an expert report is used to determine species
presence/absence
Describe targeted surveys undertaken to determine the presence/absence of each candidate species at risk of an SAII,
including:
☐ details of targeted survey effort, timing and weather (as described in BAM Section 5.3(3.))
☐ justification of survey method (e.g. citation of peer-reviewed literature) if approach differs from the Department’s
threatened species survey guidelines or where no relevant guideline has been published
☐ survey personnel and relevant experience
Describe the use of expert reports where used in place of targeted survey (as described in BAM Section 5.3(1.) and Box
3), including:
☐ identify the expert and provide evidence of their expert credentials
☐ Determination of the presence/absence of remaining species at risk of an SAII (by conducting a threatened species
survey, or an expert report).
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table listing candidate entities at risk of an SAII (including associated habitat feature/component and sensitivity
classes) that are likely to use, or occur on the subject land (using the BAM-C scattered tree module and TBDC)
☐ Table detailing the threatened species at risk of an SAII not recorded on the subject land via targeted survey or expert
report (B.4 of Appendix B)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Expert reports and any supporting data used to support conclusions of the expert report
Prescribed Chapter 6 INFORMATION
impacts ☐ Any prescribed impacts from the scattered tree proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with Appendix K
MAPS AND TABLES (in document)
☐ If relevant, maps showing location of any prescribed impact features (i.e. karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks, human-
made structures, etc.)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ If relevant digital shape files of prescribed impact feature locations
☐ Prescribed impact features map in jpeg format
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Avoid and Chapter 7 INFORMATION
minimise impacts Demonstration of efforts to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values (including prescribed impacts) associated
with the proposed location in accordance with Chapter 7, including an analysis of alternative:
☐ modes or technologies that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting
the proposed mode or technology
☐ routes that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting the proposed route
☐ alternative locations that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting the
proposed location
☐ alternative sites within a property on which the proposal is located that would avoid or minimise impacts on
biodiversity values and justification for selecting the proposed site
☐ Describe efforts to avoid and minimise impacts (including prescribed impacts) to biodiversity values through proposal
design (as described in BAM Subsection 7.2.2)
☐ Identification of any other site constraints that the proponent has considered in determining the location and design of
the proposal (as described in BAM Subsection 7.2.1(3.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to avoid and minimise the impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
☐ Map of final proposal footprint, including construction and operation
☐ Maps demonstrating indirect impact zones where applicable
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ final proposal footprint
☐ direct and indirect impact zones
☐ Maps in jpeg format
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Assessment of Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Impacts Sections Determine the impacts on native vegetation, including:
8.1 and 8.2 ☐ description of direct impacts of clearing of scattered trees and threatened ecological communities (as described in
BAM Section 8.1)
☐ description of the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of indirect impacts of the proposal (as described in
BAM Subsection 8.2)
☐ Any prescribed impacts from the scattered tree proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with Appendix K
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Mitigation and Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Management of Sections Identification of measures to mitigate or manage impacts in accordance with the recommendations in BAM Section 8.4
Impacts 8.4 and 8.5 including (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(2.)):
☐ techniques, timing, frequency and responsibility
☐ document any adaptive management strategy proposed
Identification of measures for mitigating impacts related to:
☐ indirect impacts on native vegetation and habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(3.))
☐ mitigating prescribed biodiversity impacts if relevant (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.2)
☐ Details of the adaptive management strategy proposed to monitor and respond to impacts on biodiversity values that
are uncertain (BAM Section 8.5)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to mitigate and manage impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Offset Appendix B INFORMATION
requirements B.5 ☐ Record of results of visual assessment (field based) of all class 2 and 3 scattered trees for hollows
☐ Record the number of ecosystem credits required for clearing all class 2 and 3 scattered trees
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of class 2 and 3 scattered trees that are hollow bearing
☐ Report produced by BAM-C (scattered tree module) determining an offset requirement for the proposal
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files for all maps and spatial data ☐
Credit profile Appendix B INFORMATION
B.6 Credit profile for the proposed clearing of class 2 and 3 scattered trees including the 7 attributes identified in BAM
Subsection 10.2.1 including:
☐ up to 3 candidate PCTs for attribute (a), being a PCT that includes the species of the scattered tree/s being
cleared as one of its dominant tree species (refer to BioNet Vegetation Classification), and
☐ attributes (b) – (e) based on the PCTs identified for attribute (a), and
☐ attribute (f) based on whether hollows were recorded for any class 2 or 3 scattered trees, and
☐ attribute (g) based on the IBRA subregion in which the clearing occurs or mostly occurs
☐ Number of ecosystem credits that measure the impact of the development on biodiversity values
☐ Description of the credit classes for ecosystem credits at the development site (BAM Subsection 10.2.1)
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Table 27 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity Development Assessment Report: Streamlined assessment module – Small
area
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Introduction Chapters 2 INFORMATION
and 3 Introduction to the biodiversity assessment including:
☐ brief description of proposed development
☐ identification of subject land 3 boundary, including:
☐ operational footprint
☐ construction footprint indicating clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and
infrastructure
☐ general description of the subject land
☐ Sources of information used in the assessment, including reports and spatial data
☐ Identification of assessment method applied (i.e. linear or site-based)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of the subject land boundary showing the final proposal footprint, including the construction footprint for any
clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and infrastructure (if BDAR)
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Landscape Sections 3.1 INFORMATION
and 3.2, Identification of site context components and landscape features at the proposed site, including:
Appendix E ☐ general description of subject land topographic and hydrological setting, geology and soils
☐ percent native vegetation cover in the assessment area (as described in BAM Subsection 3.2(4.)
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(2.))
Other relevant landscape features which may include:
☐ rivers and streams classified according to stream order (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(3–4.) and
Appendix E)
☐ wetlands within, adjacent to and downstream of the site (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(4.))
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(5–6.))
☐ areas of geological significance and soil hazard features (as described in BAM Subsections 3.1.3(7.) and
3.1.3(10.)
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value occurring on the subject land and assessment area (as described in BAM
Subsection 3.1.3(8–9.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Site Map
☐ boundary of subject land
☐ cadastre of subject land
☐ landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value within the subject land
☐ Location Map
☐ digital aerial photography at 1:1,000 scale or finer
☐ boundary of subject land
☐ 1500 m buffer area or 500 m buffer for linear development
☐ landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ additional detail (e.g. local government area boundaries) relevant at this scale
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value within the assessment area
Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3 and to be shown on the Site Map and/or Location map include:
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions
☐ rivers, streams and estuaries
☐ wetlands and important wetlands
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat
☐ areas of geological significance and soil hazard features
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
Individual digital shape files of:
☐ subject land boundary
☐ assessment area (i.e. buffer area) boundary
☐ cadastral boundary of subject land
☐ areas of native vegetation cover
☐ areas of habitat connectivity
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Native Chapter 4 INFORMATION
vegetation, TECs ☐ Patch size (in accordance with BAM Subsection 4.3.2)
and vegetation ☐ Identification of the dominant PCT on the subject land and extent (ha) with justification of method used (existing
integrity information or plot-based survey data)
☐ Identification of any TEC associated with the PCT (BAM Subsection 4.2.2)
☐ Estimate of percent cleared value of dominant PCT (BAM Subsection 4.2.1(5.)
☐ Identification of any TEC on site that is not associated with the dominant PCT (Note: This TEC is required to be
assessed and offset.)
☐ Equivalence with mapping units of previous vegetation maps reviewed as part of the assessment (i.e. equivalent
mapping units)
☐ Vegetation integrity of the PCT(s) on the subject land as individual vegetation zones ☐
☐ Justification for how this was determined (i.e. qualitatively by observing values for the condition attributes set out in
Table 2 of the BAM or quantitatively by collecting field data for the condition attributes at a plot in accordance with
BAM Subsection 4.3.4)
☐ Use of relevant benchmark data from BioNet Vegetation Classification (as described in BAM Subsections 4.3.3(5.))
Where use of more appropriate local benchmark data is proposed (as described in BAM Subsection 1.4.2, BAM
Subsection 4.3.3(5.) and BAM Appendix A):
☐ identify the PCT or vegetation class for which local benchmark data will be applied
☐ identify published sources of local benchmark data (if benchmarks obtained from published sources)
☐ describe methods of local benchmark data collection (if reference plots used to determine local benchmark data)
☐ provide justification for use of local data rather than BioNet Vegetation Classification benchmark values
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of native vegetation extent for the subject land (as described in BAM Section 3.1)
☐ Map of PCT/vegetation zones within the subject land (as described in BAM Section 4.2(1.)
☐ Map the location of floristic vegetation survey plots and vegetation integrity survey plots relative to PCT boundaries
☐ Map of TEC distribution on the subject land
☐ Patch size of native vegetation (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.2)
Table of current vegetation integrity scores for vegetation zone within the site including:
☐ composition condition score
☐ structure condition score
☐ function condition score
☐ Report from BAM-C (Small area module) including vegetation integrity scores (BAM Section 4.4)
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
☐ Plot field data (MS Excel format)
☐ Digital shape files for all maps and spatial data
☐ Field data sheets (if relevant) for determining vegetation integrity (BAM Subsection 4.3.4)
Habitat suitability Chapter 5 INFORMATION
for threatened and Section ☐ Describe the review of existing information and any field survey undertaken to assess habitat constraints and
species 9.1 microhabitats for threatened species within the subject land
☐ Determination of the suite of threatened species likely to occur on or use the proposed site according to Steps 1 and
2 in BAM Section 5.2 including species to be assessed for ecosystem credits and the list of species to be assessed
for species credits
☐ List of ecosystem credit species derived from the TBDC (as described in BAM Subsections 5.2.1 and 5.2.2) with
justification for the exclusion of any ecosystem credit species based on habitat constraints (as described in BAM
Subsection 5.2.2)
☐ Identification of candidate species credit species that are at risk of an SAII and therefore, must be further assessed
(BAM Section 9.1)
Note: Candidate species credit species that are not at risk of an SAII and not incidentally recorded on the subject land do
not require further assessment.
For candidate species credit species that are at risk of an SAII, a description of the species, any habitat constraints or
microhabitats associated with the species on the subject land and information used to create the species polygon/s in
accordance with Steps 3 to 5 of BAM Section 5.2 including:
☐ justification for determining that a candidate species credit species at risk of an SAII is unlikely to have suitable
habitat on the subject land or specific vegetation zone (based on a field assessment of the subject land and
published literature or an expert report prepared in accordance with Box 3 of the BAM)
☐ determination of the presence of remaining candidate species credit species at risk of an SAII (by assuming
presence, conducting a threatened species survey or an expert report).
Note: If the subject land is mapped on an important habitat map for a species, or for a component of its habitat, the
subject land is considered to have suitable habitat for the species to be present.
☐ species polygons identifying the location and area of suitable habitat for each candidate threatened species at risk
of an SAII that is recorded on the subject land and is measured by area, OR
☐ species polygons identifying the area of suitable habitat and targeted surveys identifying the count and location of
individuals on the subject land for each candidate threatened flora species at risk of an SAII that is recorded on
the subject land and is measured by count
☐ species polygons for each threatened species identified on the subject land that is not at risk of an SAII (i.e.
incidentally observed during site visit)
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ Determination of habitat condition within species polygon/s for each threatened species (measured by area) at risk of
an SAII or incidentally observed during the site visit (Step 6 of BAM Section 5.2)
☐ For flora species credit species at risk of an SAII or incidentally observed during site visit, provide a count, or an
estimation, of the number of individual plants present on the subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(4.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing ecosystem credit species in accordance with BAM Subsection 5.1.1, and:
☐ identifying any ecosystem credit species removed from the list of species on the basis of further assessment in
accordance with BAM Subsections 5.2.2 and 5.2.3
☐ identifying the sensitivity to gain class of each species (BAM Section 5.4)
☐ Table detailing species credit species within the subject land at risk of an SAII (BAM Section 9.1) or incidentally
observed during the site visit including any associated habitat feature/components and its abundance (flora)/extent of
habitat (flora and fauna) and biodiversity risk weighting (BAM Sections 5.2–5.4)
☐ Map of species credit species records within the subject land and species polygons for flora and fauna species at risk
of an SAII or incidentally observed during the site visit (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(1–7.))
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of species polygons
☐ Species polygon map in jpeg format
☐ Expert reports and any supporting data used to support conclusions of the expert report
☐ Field data sheets (if relevant) for threatened species surveys
Prescribed Chapter 6 INFORMATION
impacts ☐ Any prescribed impacts from the small area proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with Appendix K
MAPS AND TABLES (in document)
☐ If relevant, maps showing location of any prescribed impact features (i.e. karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks, human-
made structures, etc.)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ If relevant, digital shape files of prescribed impact feature locations
☐ Prescribed impact features map in jpeg format
140
Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Avoid and Chapter 7 INFORMATION
minimise impacts Demonstration of efforts to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values (including prescribed impacts) associated
with the proposal location in accordance with Chapter 7, including an analysis of alternative:
☐ modes or technologies that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting
the proposed mode or technology
☐ alternative locations that would avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity values and justification for selecting the
proposed location
☐ alternative sites within a property on which the proposal is located that would avoid or minimise impacts on
biodiversity values and justification for selecting the proposed site
☐ Describe efforts to avoid and minimise impacts (including prescribed impacts) to biodiversity values through proposal
design (as described in BAM Subsections 7.1.2 and 7.2.2
☐ Identification of any other site constraints that the proponent has considered in determining the location and design of
the proposal (as described in BAM Subsection 7.2.1(3.)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to avoid and minimise the impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
☐ Map of final proposal footprint, including construction and operation
☐ Maps demonstrating indirect impact zones where applicable
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ final proposal footprint
☐ direct and indirect impact zones
☐ Maps in jpeg format
Assessment of Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Impacts Section 8.1 Determine the impacts on native vegetation and threatened species habitat, including:
and 8.2 ☐ description of direct impacts of clearing of native vegetation, threatened ecological communities and threatened
species habitat (as described in BAM Sections 8.1)
☐ description of the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of indirect impacts of the proposal (as described
in BAM Subsection 8.2
☐ Any prescribed impacts from the small area proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with Appendix K
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing change in vegetation integrity score for each vegetation zone as a result of identified impacts
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Mitigation and Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Management of Section 8.4 Identification of measures to mitigate or manage impacts in accordance with the recommendations in BAM Subsections
Impacts and 8.5 8.4.1 and 8.4.2, including (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(2.):
☐ techniques, timing, frequency and responsibility
☐ identify measures for which there is risk of failure
☐ evaluate the risk and consequence of any residual impacts
☐ document any adaptive management strategy proposed
Identification of measures for mitigating impacts related to:
☐ displacement of resident fauna (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1)
☐ indirect impacts on native vegetation and habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(3.))
☐ mitigating prescribed biodiversity impacts (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.2)
☐ Details of the adaptive management strategy proposed to monitor and respond to impacts on biodiversity values that
are uncertain (BAM Section 8.5)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to mitigate and manage impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Thresholds for Chapter 9 INFORMATION
assessing and ☐ Information from the TBDC and/or other sources to report on the current status of threatened species, threatened
offsetting the populations at risk of an SAII and TEC/s for the proposal, and
impacts of the ☐ Report on impacts of the proposal on TEC/s in accordance with BAM Subsection 9.2.1
proposal
☐ Report on impacts of the proposal on threatened species and/or threatened populations at risk of an SAII in
accordance with BAM Section 9.1
☐ Identification of impacts requiring offset in accordance with BAM Section 9.2
☐ Identification of impacts not requiring offset in accordance with BAM Subsection 9.2.1(3.)
☐ Identification of areas not requiring assessment in accordance with BAM Section 9.3
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map showing the extent of TECs at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ Map showing the location of threatened species at risk of an SAII within the subject land
Map showing location of:
☐ impacts requiring offset
☐ impacts not requiring offset
☐ areas not requiring assessment
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ extent of TECs at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ threatened species at risk of an SAII within the subject land
☐ boundary of impacts requiring offset
☐ boundary of impacts not requiring offset
☐ boundary of areas not requiring assessment
☐ Maps in jpeg format
Applying the no Chapter 10 INFORMATION
net loss standard ☐ Description of the impact on PCTs/TECs
☐ Description of the impact on threatened species at risk of an SAII or incidentally observed via site visit
☐ Number of ecosystem credits required for impacts on biodiversity values according to BAM Subsection 9
☐ Number of species credits required for impacts on biodiversity values according to BAM Subsection 10.1.3, including
any species credit species that has been incidentally observed on the subject land
Note: Species credits for any species at risk of an SAII are calculated in the event that the decision-maker forms the
opinion that the proposed impact is unlikely to be serious and irreversible and therefore can be offset.
☐ Identification of credit class for ecosystem credits and species credits according to BAM Section 10.2 (this can be
generated from BAM-C)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing biodiversity risk weightings
☐ Table of BC Act listing status for PCTs and threatened species requiring offset
☐ Table of PCTs requiring offset and number of ecosystem credits required (Subsection 10.2.1)
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ Table of species at risk of an SAII or incidentally observed on site assessed for species credits and the number of
credits required
☐ BAM-C credit report
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
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Table 28 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity Development Assessment Report: Streamlined assessment module –
Planted native vegetation
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Introduction Chapters 2 INFORMATION
and 3 Introduction to the biodiversity assessment including:
☐ brief description of proposed development
☐ identification of subject land 4 boundary, including:
☐ operational footprint
☐ construction footprint indicating clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and
infrastructure
☐ general description of the subject land
☐ sources of information used in the assessment, including reports and spatial data
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Planted native Appendix D, INFORMATION
vegetation D.1 ☐ Determination of which subsection of the decision-making key (D.1) applies to the native vegetation to be cleared or
impacted by the proposal
☐ Justification and evidence for the above determination (e.g. photos, management plans/agreements, etc.)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of the subject land boundary showing the final proposal footprint, including the construction footprint for any
clearing associated with temporary/ancillary construction facilities and infrastructure (if BDAR)
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Landscape Sections 3.1 INFORMATION
context and 3.2, Identification of site context components and landscape features at the proposed site, including:
Appendix E
☐ general description of subject land topographic and hydrological setting, geology and soils
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(2.))
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS AND TABLES (in document)
☐ Site Map
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ Cadastre of subject land
☐ Location Map
☐ Digital aerial photography at 1:1,000 scale or finer)
☐ Boundary of subject land
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
Individual digital shape files of:
☐ subject land boundary
☐ assessment area (i.e. buffer area) boundary
☐ cadastral boundary of subject land
Native vegetation Chapter 4, INFORMATION
Appendix A Note: If D.1(2.i.) or D.1(3.i.) of the decision-making key in Appendix D apply, Chapter 4 is not required. If D.1(1.i.) or
and D.1(4.i.) apply, Chapter 4 is required – refer to the minimum information requirements for a BDAR or BCAR in
Appendix H Appendix K.
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Threatened Appendix D, INFORMATION
species habitat D.2 (and Note: If D.1(2.i.) or D.1(3.i.) of the decision-making key in Appendix D apply, Chapter 5 is not required and the
(planted native Chapter 5 of assessment of planted native vegetation for threatened species habitat must be conducted in accordance with D.2. If
vegetation) the BAM) D.1(1.i.) or D.1(4.i.) apply, Chapter 5 is required – refer to the minimum information requirements for a BDAR or BCAR in
Appendix K.
☐ Describe the review of existing information and assessment of the suitability of the planted native vegetation for use
by threatened species
☐ Record any incidental sightings or evidence (e.g. scats) of threatened species credit species (flora and fauna) found
to be using, inhabiting or part of, the planted native vegetation
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Field data sheet including records of any incidental sightings or evidence of threatened species credit species as
outlined above
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ Table detailing the threatened species credit species found to be using, inhabiting or part of the planted native
vegetation
☐ Map of threatened species credit species found to be using, inhabiting or part of the planted native vegetation
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Prescribed Chapter 6 INFORMATION
impacts ☐ Any prescribed impacts from the planted native vegetation proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with
Appendix K
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ If relevant, map showing location of any prescribed impact features (i.e. karst, caves, crevices, cliffs, rocks, human-
made structures, etc.)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of prescribed impact feature locations
☐ Prescribed impact features map in jpeg format
Avoid and Chapter 7 INFORMATION
minimise impacts ☐ Demonstration of efforts to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values (including prescribed impacts)
associated with the proposal location in accordance with Chapter 7
☐ Describe efforts to avoid and minimise impacts (including prescribed impacts) to biodiversity values through proposal
design (as described in BAM Subsection 7.2.2)
☐ Identification of any other site constraints that the proponent has considered in determining the location and design of
the proposal (as described in BAM Subsection 7.2.1(3.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to avoid and minimise the impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
☐ Map of final proposal footprint, including construction and operation
☐ Maps demonstrating indirect impact zones where applicable
DATA (to be supplied)
Digital shape files of:
☐ final proposal footprint
☐ direct and indirect impact zones
☐ Maps in jpeg format
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Assessment of Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Impacts Sections 8.1 Determine the impacts on threatened species habitat, including:
and 8.2 ☐ description of impacts of clearing of threatened species habitat (as described in BAM Sections 8.1)
☐ description of the nature, extent, frequency, duration and timing of indirect impacts of the proposal (as described in
BAM Section 8.2
☐ Any prescribed impacts from the planted native vegetation proposal must be set out in the BDAR consistent with
Appendix K
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Mitigation and Chapter 8, INFORMATION
Management of Sections 8.4 Identification of measures to mitigate or manage impacts in accordance with the recommendations in BAM Section 8.4
Impacts and 8.5 including (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(2.)):
☐ techniques, timing, frequency and responsibility
☐ identify measures for which there is risk of failure
☐ evaluate the risk and consequence of any residual impacts
☐ document any adaptive management strategy proposed
Identification of measures for mitigating impacts related to:
☐ displacement of resident fauna (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(2.))
☐ indirect impacts on threatened species habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 8.4.1(3.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of measures to be implemented before, during and after construction to mitigate and manage impacts of the
proposal, including action, outcome, timing and responsibility
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Impact summary Appendix D, INFORMATION
D.2 Note: If D.1(2.i) or D.1(3.i.) of the decision-making key in Appendix D apply, Chapter 9 is not required and the
assessment of planted native vegetation for threatened species must be conducted in accordance with D.2 of the BAM. If
D.1(1.i.) applies, refer to the minimum information requirements for a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report in
Appendix K.
MAPS and TABLES (in document) – N/A
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Maps in jpeg format
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Introduction Chapters 2 INFORMATION
and 3 Introduction to the biodiversity assessment including:
☐ brief description of proposed biodiversity stewardship site
☐ identification of subject land 5 footprint, including:
☐ location
☐ lot and DP numbers
☐ general description of the subject land
☐ sources of information used in the assessment, including reports and spatial data
☐ identification of assessment method applied (i.e. linear or site-based)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of the subject land boundary showing the final proposal BSA site
DATA (to be supplied) – N/A
Landscape Sections 3.1 INFORMATION
context and 3.2, Identification of site context components and landscape features at the biodiversity stewardship site, including:
Appendix E ☐ general description of subject land topographic and hydrological setting, geology and soils
☐ percent native vegetation cover in the assessment area (as described in BAM Section 3.2)
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(2.))
☐ NSW (Mitchell) landscape features and area (ha) (as described in BAM Section 3(2.))
☐ rivers and streams classified according to stream order (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(3.) and Appendix E)
☐ wetlands within, adjacent to and downstream of the site (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(3.))
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat (as described in BAM Subsection 3.1.3(5–6.))
☐ areas of geological significance and soil hazard features (as described in BAM Subsections 3.1.3(7.) and 3.1.3(10.)
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ areas of outstanding biodiversity value occurring on the subject land and assessment area (as described in BAM
Subsection 3.1.3(8–9.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Site Map
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ Cadastre of subject land
☐ Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ Areas of outstanding biodiversity value within the subject land
☐ Location Map
☐ Digital aerial photography at 1:1,000 scale or finer
☐ Boundary of subject land
☐ 1500 m buffer area or 500 m buffer for linear site
☐ Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3
☐ Additional detail (e.g. local government area boundaries) relevant at this scale
☐ Areas of outstanding biodiversity value within the assessment area
Landscape features identified in BAM Subsection 3.1.3 and to be shown on the Site Map and/or Location map include:
☐ IBRA bioregions and subregions
☐ NSW (Mitchell) landscape regions
☐ rivers, streams and estuaries
☐ important and local wetlands
☐ connectivity of different areas of habitat
☐ areas of geological significance and soil hazard features
☐ any additional landscape features identified in any SEARs for the proposal
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
Individual digital shape files of:
☐ subject land boundary
☐ assessment area (i.e. subject land and 1500 m buffer area) boundary
☐ cadastral boundary of subject land
☐ areas of native vegetation cover
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
☐ areas of habitat connectivity
☐ additional landscape features identified in any SEARs for the proposal
Native Chapter 4, INFORMATION
vegetation Appendix A ☐ Identify native vegetation extent within the subject land, including cleared areas and evidence to support differences
and between mapped vegetation extent and aerial imagery (as described in BAM Section 4.1(1–3.) and Subsection 4.1.1)
Appendix H ☐ Review of existing information on native vegetation including references to previous vegetation maps of the subject
land and assessment area (described in BAM Section 4.1(3.) and Subsection 4.1.1)
☐ Describe the systematic field-based floristic vegetation survey undertaken in accordance with BAM Section 3.2
☐ Describe the use of more appropriate local data and provide reasons that support the use of more appropriate local
data (as described in BAM Subsection 1.4.2 and Appendix A)
For each PCT within the subject land, describe:
☐ vegetation class
☐ extent (ha) within subject land
☐ justification of evidence used to identify a PCT (BAM Section 4.2(1–3.))
☐ plant species relied upon for identification of the PCT and relative abundance of each species
☐ TEC status (BAM Subsection 4.2.2(1–2.))
☐ estimate of percent cleared value of PCT (BAM Subsection 4.2.1( 5.))
☐ equivalence with mapping units of previous vegetation maps reviewed as part of the assessment (i.e. equivalent
mapping units)
Describe the vegetation integrity assessment of the subject land, including:
☐ identification and mapping of vegetation zones (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.1)
☐ assessment of patch size (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.2)
☐ survey effort (i.e. number of vegetation integrity survey plots) as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.4(1–2.)
☐ use of relevant benchmark data from BioNet Vegetation Classification (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.3(5.))
☐ list of high threat weed species present on the land
Where use of more appropriate local benchmark data is proposed (as described in BAM Subsection 1.4.2, BAM
Subsection 4.3.3(5.) and BAM Appendix A):
☐ identify the PCT or vegetation class for which local benchmark data will be applied
☐ identify published sources of local benchmark data (if benchmarks obtained from published sources)
☐ describe methods of local benchmark data collection (if reference plots used to determine local benchmark data)
☐ provide justification for use of local data rather than BioNet Vegetation Classification benchmark values
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Biodiversity Assessment Method
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Map of native vegetation extent within the subject land at scale not greater than 1:10,000 (as described in BAM
Section 4.1(1–3.))
☐ Map of PCTs within the subject land (as described in BAM Section 4.2(1.))
☐ Map of vegetation zones within the subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.1)
☐ Map the location of floristic vegetation survey plots and vegetation integrity survey plots relative to PCTs boundaries
☐ Map of TEC distribution on the subject land
☐ Patch size of native vegetation (as described in BAM Subsection 4.3.2)
Table of current vegetation integrity scores for each vegetation zone within the site and including:
☐ composition condition score
☐ structure condition score
☐ function condition score
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ All report maps as separate jpeg files
☐ Plot field data (MS Excel format)
☐ Plot field data sheets
Digital shape files of:
☐ PCT boundaries within subject land
☐ TEC boundaries within subject land
☐ vegetation zone boundaries within subject land
☐ floristic vegetation survey and vegetation integrity plot locations
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Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
For species credit species identified as present within the subject land (determined on basis of survey or expert report):
☐ determine the species polygons identifying the extent of habitat for the species credit species within the subject
land (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(1–5.))
☐ describe the habitat features and/or habitat constraints associated with each species credit species within the
subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(6.))
☐ describe the habitat condition within each species polygon (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.6)
☐ for flora species credit species, provide a count, or an estimation, of the number of individual plants present on
the subject land (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(3.))
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table showing ecosystem credit species in accordance with BAM Section 5.1.1, and:
☐ identifying any ecosystem credit species removed from the list of species on the basis of further assessment in
accordance with BAM Subsections 5.2.2)
☐ identifying the sensitivity to gain class of each species
☐ Table detailing species credit species in accordance with BAM Subsections 5.2.1–5.2.2 and identifying:
☐ those species identified as candidate species credit species
☐ presence on site as determined by targeted survey expert report or important mapped area
☐ Table detailing species credit species recorded within the subject land, habitat feature/component associated with
the species, its abundance (flora)/extent of habitat (flora and fauna) (as described in BAM Subsection 5.2.6)
☐ Map of species credit species records within the subject land and species polygons for flora and fauna species (as
described in BAM Subsection 5.2.5(1–5.))
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Digital shape files of species polygons
☐ Species polygon map in jpeg format
☐ Expert reports and any supporting data used to support conclusions of the expert report
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Table 30 Minimum information requirements for the Biodiversity Stewardship Site Assessment Report (application for a biodiversity
stewardship agreement), Stage 3: Improving biodiversity values
Report section BAM ref. Information Maps & tables (in document) Data (to be supplied)
Improving Chapter 11 INFORMATION
biodiversity Ecosystem credits and species credits created at a biodiversity stewardship site, including:
values ☐ description of the required management actions to improve biodiversity values (BAM Section 11.3)
☐ description of active restoration management actions to improve biodiversity values (BAM Section 11.3)
☐ description of active restoration management actions targeted at manageable high threat weeds
☐ number of ecosystem credits created for the improvement in biodiversity values for each vegetation zone at a
biodiversity stewardship site (BAM Section 11.6)
☐ number of species credits created for each threatened species that occurs on the biodiversity stewardship site
(BAM Section 11.7)
☐ full disclosure of existing management obligations and management actions and the credit adjustments relating
to these (BAM Section 11.9)
MAPS and TABLES (in document)
☐ Table of vegetation zones detailing:
☐ future vegetation integrity score without management, including averted loss (BAM Subsection 11.4.1)
☐ future vegetation integrity score with required and active restoration management (in accordance with BAM
Section 4.4, Equation 33 and Equation 34 in Appendix H)
☐ change in vegetation integrity score (BAM Section 11.4)
☐ gain in vegetation integrity score (Equation 37 in Appendix H)
☐ Table of required management actions, including:
☐ future value of vegetation integrity attributes with management (BAM Subsection 11.4.2)
☐ Table of active restoration management actions, including:
☐ future value of vegetation integrity attributes with management (BAM Subsection 11.4.2)
☐ Table of PCTs at the biodiversity stewardship site and the number of ecosystem credits created
☐ Table of threatened species at the biodiversity stewardship site and the number of species credits created
☐ Map of species polygon, identifying areas that will not generate credits and areas that will be restored to expand
species habitat
DATA (to be supplied)
☐ Submitted proposal in the BAM Calculator
Appendix Chapter 11 ☐ Credit reports for ecosystem and species credit species produced by the BAM Calculator
☐ Management plan for the biodiversity stewardship site (BAM Section 11.2)
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Glossary
References to databases in the BAM are references to databases as in force from time to
time.
References to sections are to the BAM, unless otherwise indicated.
The following terms are defined for the purposes of the BAM.
Accredited person: has the same meaning as in the BC Act, referred to in the BAM as
‘assessor’, i.e. in relation to the preparation of biodiversity assessment reports, means a
person accredited under section 6.10 (of the BC Act) to prepare those reports in accordance
with the biodiversity assessment method.
Additional biodiversity impacts: has the same meaning as in clause 6.1 of the BC
Regulation; described as prescribed impacts in the BAM.
Ancillary rules: rules published by the Secretary of the Department or anyone authorised
by the Secretary, under clause 6.5 of the BC Regulation for the purpose of the interpretation
and application of the offset rules and variation rules.
Annual probability of decline in vegetation and habitat condition: an estimate of the
average probability of decline of each attribute through clearing, stochastic factors or
ongoing degrading actions (e.g. firewood removal, weed invasion, livestock grazing).
Approved conservation measure: measures specified as approved conservation
measures in an order conferring biodiversity certification under Part 8 of the BC Act.
Area of occupancy (AOO): area of suitable habitat currently occupied by a taxon within its
‘extent of occurrence’. This area is measured by species presence in 2 km x 2 km grids
(e.g., AOO for species will be in multiples of 4 km2) or community presence in 10 km x 10
km grids (AOO for communities will be in multiples of 100 km2; grid squares with <1%
occupied by the community are excluded). A taxon will generally not occur throughout the
entire area of its extent of occurrence due to unsuitable or unoccupied habitats (IUCN 2001,
2012b). For migratory species, AOO is either the breeding area or the non-breeding
(wintering) area, whichever is smaller.
Assessment area: includes the subject land and the area of land within the 1500 m buffer
zone surrounding the subject land (or 500 m buffer zone for linear proposals) that is
determined as per Subsection 3.1.2.
Assessor: has the same meaning as accredited person.
Averted loss: the gain in vegetation and habitat condition that arises from managing the
proposed land as an offset compared with the probable future vegetation condition if the
land were to be left unmanaged (see Annual probability of decline).
Avoid: measures taken by a proponent such as careful site selection, or actions taken
through the design, planning, construction and operational phases of the development to
completely prevent impacts on biodiversity values, or certain areas of biodiversity. Refer to
the BAM for operational guidance.
Biodiversity Assessment Report: a biodiversity stewardship site assessment report, a
biodiversity development assessment report or a biodiversity certification assessment report
prepared by an accredited person.
Benchmark data: for a PCT, vegetation class or vegetation formation, benchmark data are
contained in the BioNet Vegetation Classification. A local reference site may also be used to
establish benchmark data for a PCT that may be used in a BAM assessment, as per
Appendix A.
• Dry benchmarks are estimated for the 10th percentile of long-term rainfall records
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• Average benchmarks are estimated for the median or 50th percentile, and
• Wet benchmarks are estimated for the 90th percentile of long-term rainfall records.
Benchmarks: the quantitative measures that represent the ‘best attainable’ condition, which
acknowledges that native vegetation within the contemporary landscape has been subject to
both natural and human-induced disturbance. Benchmarks are defined for specified
variables for each PCT. Vegetation with relatively little evidence of modification generally
has minimal timber harvesting (few stumps, coppicing, cut logs), minimal firewood collection,
minimal exotic weed cover, minimal grazing and trampling by introduced or overabundant
native herbivores, minimal soil disturbance, minimal canopy dieback, no evidence of recent
fire or flood, no high-frequency burning, and evidence of recruitment of native species.
Biodiversity Assessment Method Calculator: the online computer program that provides
decision support to assessors and proponents by applying the BAM and referred to as the
BAM-C. The BAM-C contains biodiversity data from the BioNet Vegetation Classification and
the Threatened Biodiversity Data Collection that the assessor is required to use in a BAM
assessment. The BAM-C applies the equations used in the BAM, including those to
determine the number and class of biodiversity credits required to offset the impacts of a
development, or created at a biodiversity stewardship site. It is published by the
Department.
Biodiversity certification: means biodiversity certification conferred on land under Part 8
of the BC Act.
Biodiversity certification assessment area: the area of land subject to assessment under
the BAM for the design of future land uses. Usually correlates to a strategic planning area in
a published plan or the subject lands of a planning proposal. The biodiversity certification
assessment area is to be identified in the BCAR. It will include land where certification is
proposed to be conferred, any surrounding or adjacent land proposed for land-based
conservation measures and retained lands. Land-based conservation measures are not
necessarily limited to the confines of the biodiversity certification assessment area.
Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report (BCAR): has the same meaning as in the
BC Act.
Biodiversity credit report: the report produced by the BAM-C that sets out the number and
class of biodiversity credits required to offset the remaining adverse impacts on biodiversity
values at a development site or on land to be biodiversity certified. For biodiversity
stewardship sites, the biodiversity credit report sets out the number and class of biodiversity
credits that are created at that site.
Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR): has the same meaning as in the
BC Act.
Biodiversity offsets: the gain in biodiversity values achieved from the implementation of
management actions on areas of land, to compensate for losses to biodiversity values from
the impacts of development.
Biodiversity stewardship agreement: has the same meaning as in the BC Act.
Biodiversity stewardship site: has the same meaning as in the BC Act.
Biodiversity Stewardship Site Assessment Report (BSSAR): the report that must be
prepared in accordance with the BAM and submitted as part of an application for a
biodiversity stewardship agreement.
Biodiversity values: has the same meaning as in the BC Act.
Biodiversity Values Map: means the map published in accordance with clause 7.3 of the
BC Regulation. Development within an area identified on the map requires assessment
using the BAM.
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BioNet Atlas: the Department’s database of flora and fauna records (formerly known as the
NSW Wildlife Atlas). The BioNet Atlas contains records of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles,
amphibians, some fungi, some invertebrates (such as insects and snails listed under the BC
Act) and some fish.
BioNet Vegetation Classification: the vegetation community-level classification for use in
vegetation mapping programs and regulatory biodiversity impact assessment frameworks in
NSW. The BioNet Vegetation Classification is published by the Department and available at
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/research/Visclassification.htm.
Broad condition state: areas of the same PCT that are in relatively homogeneous
condition. The assessment of broad condition state is used to stratify areas of the same PCT
into a vegetation zone for the purpose of determining the vegetation integrity score.
Change in vegetation integrity score for a biodiversity stewardship site: the difference
(gain) between the estimated vegetation integrity score without management at a
biodiversity stewardship site and the predicted future vegetation integrity score with
management at a biodiversity stewardship site, calculated in accordance with Equation 37.
Class of biodiversity credit: biodiversity credits that share the same attributes (refer to
Subsection 10.2.
Clearing site: the site proposed to be cleared of native vegetation where approval is sought
under Part 5A of the LLS Act or a permit under the Vegetation SEPP.
Clonal species: flora species that propagate asexually at a site or have a limited degree of
sexual reproduction, either within or between sites. Modes of asexual reproduction include
vegetative reproduction, such as by rhizomes, root suckers or bulb replication.
Condition attributes: the matters assessed for composition, structure and function to
determine vegetation integrity. The condition attributes for composition and structure are
assessed according to growth form groups.
Connectivity: the measure of the degree to which an area of native vegetation is linked
with other areas of vegetation.
Critically endangered ecological community (CEEC): an ecological community specified
as critically endangered in Schedule 2 of the BC Act and/or listed under Part 13, Division 1,
Subdivision A of the Commonwealth EPBC Act.
Crown cover: the vertical projection of the periphery of tree crowns within a designated
area.
Decision-maker: includes consent authorities for development applications under Part 4 of
the EP&A Act; the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces for activities under Part 5.1 of the
EP&A Act; determining authorities for activities under Part 5 of the EP&A Act; the Native
Vegetation Panel for approvals for clearing native vegetation under s.60ZF of the LLS Act
and permits under clause 14 of the Vegetation SEPP; the Minister for Environment and
Energy in relation to biodiversity certification under Part 8 of the BC Act and biodiversity
stewardship agreements under Part 5.5 of the BC Act.
Derived PCT: PCTs that have changed to an alternative stable state as a consequence of
land management practices since European settlement. Derived communities can have one
or more structural components of the vegetation entirely removed or severely reduced
(e.g. over-storey of grassy woodland) or have developed new structural components where
they were previously absent (e.g. shrubby mid-storey in an open woodland system).
Development footprint: the area of land that is directly impacted by a proposed
development, including access roads and areas used to store construction materials. The
term development footprint is also taken to include clearing footprint, except where the
reference is to a small area development or a major project development.
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Development site: an area of land that is subject to a proposed development under the
EP&A Act. The term development site is also taken to include clearing site, except where
the reference is to a small area development or a major project development.
Direct impacts: impacts on biodiversity values and threatened species habitat that relate to
clearing native vegetation and impacts on biodiversity values prescribed by the BC
Regulation. This includes impacts from activities related to the construction or operational
phase of the proposal.
Dynamic weights: dynamic weights are used in the calculation of vegetation integrity
scores. The importance (weight) of any composition or structure attribute is taken as
proportional to its contribution to the total number of native plant species or total plant foliage
cover in the benchmark.
Ecosystem credits: a measurement of the value of threatened ecological communities,
threatened species habitat for species that can be reliably predicted to occur with a PCT,
and PCTs generally. Ecosystem credits measure the loss in biodiversity values at a
development, activity, clearing or biodiversity certification site and the gain in biodiversity
values at a biodiversity stewardship site.
Ecotone: a transitional area of vegetation between plant community types that displays
some characteristics from each plant community type.
Endangered ecological community (EEC): an ecological community specified as
endangered in Schedule 2 of the BC Act, or listed under Part 13, Division 1, Subdivision A
of the EPBC Act.
Ephemeral flora species: flora species whose abundance above ground fluctuates in
response to the plant life history in combination with environmental conditions and/or
disturbance regimes. Fluctuations in abundance may be short-term (seasonal) or long-term
(yearly to decadal). Many ephemeral species persist underground during unfavourable
conditions via soil seed banks or dormant vegetative organs (bulbs, tubers, rootstocks).
Estuarine area: a semi-enclosed body of water having an open or intermittently open
connection with the ocean, in which water levels do not vary with the ocean tide (when
closed to the sea) or vary in a predictable, periodic way in response to the ocean tide at the
entrance (when open to the sea).
Expert: a person who has the relevant experience and/or qualifications to provide expert
opinion in relation to the biodiversity values to which an expert report relates.
Extent of occurrence (EOO): measures the spatial spread of a taxon to determine the
degree to which risks from threatening factors could impact an entire population, and is not
intended to be an estimate of the amount of occupied or potential habitat. The EEO is the
area contained within the smallest polygon (also known as a minimum convex polygon or
convex hull) which can be drawn to encompass all the known, inferred or projected sites of
present known occurrence of a taxon, excluding cases of vagrancy (IUCN 2001, 2012b). The
EOO polygon must not exclude any areas, discontinuities, disjunctions whether the species
can occur in these areas or not. EOO
Extreme fluctuations: where population size or distribution area varies widely, rapidly and
frequently, and typically with a variation greater than one order of magnitude (i.e., a tenfold
increase or decrease). (IUCN 2001, 2012b). Populations which undergo extreme fluctuations
are likely to have highly variable growth rates and are therefore exposed to higher extinction
risks.
Foliage cover: is the percentage of the plot covered by a vertical projection of all attached
plant material, regardless of whether it appears alive or dead, of all individuals of a species.
This includes leaves, stems, twigs, branchlets and branches, from forb, grass and grass-like
species, and any canopy overhanging the plot, even if the stem is outside the plot.
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Indirect impacts: impacts that occur when the proposal affects native vegetation and
threatened species habitat beyond the development footprint or within retained areas
(e.g. transporting weeds or pathogens, dumping rubbish). This includes impacts from
activities related to the construction or operational phase of the proposal and prescribed
impacts.
Individual: in relation to organisms, a single, mature organism that is a threatened species,
or any other threatened species listed under Part 13 of the EPBC Act.
Intrinsic rate of increase (ir): an estimate of the rate of gain for an attribute at a biodiversity
stewardship site from actions undertaken as part of the management plan. The intrinsic rate
of increase is specified for an attribute according to the formation of the PCT being assessed
(see Appendix K). Values of ir for each attribute are published on the front page of the BAM-
C.
Land-based conservation measure: Under strategic biodiversity certification, a
conservation measure applied to a parcel of land to secure the protection of biodiversity
values, rehabilitate degraded vegetation or give effect to a change in permissible land uses.
Landscape attributes: in relation to the site context of the land and includes attributes such
as native vegetation cover, patch size, habitat connectivity and the strategic location of a
biodiversity stewardship site.
Large tree benchmark: the largest stem size class for a PCT, as determined by the
benchmark for the PCT.
Life cycle: the series of stages of reproduction, growth, development, ageing and death of
an organism.
Linear-shaped development: development that is generally narrow and extends across the
landscape; for example, major roads, rail lines.
Litter cover: the percentage ground cover of all plant material that has detached from a
plant and forms part of the litter layer on the ground surface, including leaves, seeds, twigs,
branchlets and branches (<10 cm in diameter). Litter from native and exotic species
(combined) is recorded for this attribute.
Local population: the population that occurs in the study area. Where multiple populations
occur in the study area or a population occupies part of the study area, impacts on each
subpopulation must be assessed separately.
Loss of biodiversity: the loss of biodiversity values from a development site, native
vegetation clearing site or land where biodiversity certification is conferred.
Major project: State Significant Development under Part 4, Division 4.7 of the EP&A Act
and State Significant Infrastructure under Part 5, Division 5.2 of the EP&A Act.
Manageable high threat weeds: A subset of high threat weeds for which there is sufficient
evidence that their abundance and impact can be effectively reduced through well planned
and implemented management actions. These management actions are incorporated into
the 20-year management plan
Microhabitat: smaller parts of the habitat, a habitat component or a habitat constraint used
by a threatened species.
Minimise: a process applied throughout the development planning and design life cycle
that seeks to reduce the residual impacts of development on biodiversity values.
More appropriate local data: has the same meaning as set out in Subsection 1.4.2.
Multiple fragmentation impact development: developments such as wind farms and coal
seam gas extraction that require multiple extraction points (wells) or turbines, and a network
of associated development such as roads, tracks, gathering systems/flow lines and
transmission lines.
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Native ground cover: all native vegetation below 1 m in height, including all such species
native to NSW (i.e. not confined to species indigenous to the area).
Native plant species richness: the number of different native vascular plant species that
are characteristic of a PCT.
Native vegetation: has the same meaning as in section 1.6 of the BC Act and section 60B
of the LLS Act, repeated here:
(1) For the purposes of this Part, native vegetation means any of the following types of
plants native to New South Wales:
(a) trees (including any sapling or shrub or any scrub),
(b) understorey plants,
(c) groundcover (being any type of herbaceous vegetation),
(d) plants occurring in a wetland.
(2) A plant is native to New South Wales if it was established in New South Wales before
European settlement. The regulations may authorise conclusive presumptions to be
made of the species of plants native to New South Wales by adopting any relevant
classification in an official database of plants that is publicly accessible.
(3) For the purposes of this Part, native vegetation extends to a plant that is dead or that is
not native to New South Wales if:
(a) the plant is situated on land that is shown on the native vegetation regulatory
map as category 2-vulnerable regulated land, and
(b) it would be native vegetation for the purposes of this Part if it were native to New
South Wales.
(4) For the purposes of this Part, native vegetation does not extend to marine vegetation
(being mangroves, seagrasses or any other species of plant that at any time in its life
cycle must inhabit water other than fresh water). A declaration under Section 14.7 of the
BC Act that specified vegetation is or is not marine vegetation also has effect for the
purposes of this Part.
Native vegetation cover: the percentage of native vegetation cover on the subject land and
the surrounding buffer area. Cover estimates are based on the cover of native woody and
non-woody vegetation. Native vegetation cover includes regrowth, derived native grasslands
and plantations that are comprised of plants native to New South Wales
No net loss: refers to the standard set out in Chapter 10 that in the opinion of the Minister
will result in no net loss of biodiversity in NSW.
NSW (Mitchell) landscape: landscapes with relatively homogeneous geomorphology, soils
and broad vegetation types, mapped at a scale of 1:250,000.
Offset rules: those established by the BC Regulation.
Onsite measures: measures and strategies that are taken, or are proposed to be taken, at
a development site to avoid or minimise the direct and indirect impacts of the development
on biodiversity values.
Operational Manual: the Operational Manual published from time to time by the
Department, which is a guide to assist assessors when using the BAM.
Patch size: an area of native vegetation that:
• occurs on the development site or biodiversity stewardship site
• includes native vegetation that has a gap of less than 100 m from the next area of
native vegetation (or ≤30 m for non-woody ecosystems).
Patch size may extend onto adjoining land that is not part of the development site or
biodiversity stewardship site.
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PCT classification system: the system of classifying native vegetation approved by the
NSW Plant Community Type Control Panel and described in the BioNet Vegetation
Classification.
Percent cleared value: the percentage of a PCT that has been cleared as a proportion of
its pre-1750 extent, as identified in the BioNet Vegetation Classification.
Physiography: includes the following attributes: morphological type, landform element and
pattern, microrelief, lithology, soil surface texture, soil colour, depth and type, slope, aspect,
site drainage and distance to nearest water and type. Refer to the Native Vegetation Interim
Type Standard (DECCW 2010).
Plant community type (PCT): a NSW plant community type identified using the PCT
classification system.
Plot: an area within a vegetation zone in which the vegetation integrity condition attributes
are assessed.
Population: a group of organisms, all of the same species, occupying a particular area.
Prescribed impact: means the prescribed impacts identified in clause 6.1 of the BC
Regulation. Prescribed impacts can be direct or indirect impacts.
Probability of reaching benchmark: the probability of a specific attribute or growth form
group reaching benchmark condition in the vegetation zone at the end of the management
timeframe.
Protected animal: has the same meaning as in the BC Act.
Note: Some protected animals may also be threatened species of animals, but not all
threatened species of animals are protected animals.
Proponent: a person who intends to apply for consent or approval to carry out development
(including of infrastructure), clearing or biodiversity certification.
Proposal: any of the following types of proposals:
• development that requires consent under Part 4 of the EP&A Act
• an activity that requires approval under Part 5, Division 5.1 (where the proponent has
opted-in to the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme) of the EP&A Act
• development that requires approval under Part 5, Division 5.2 of the EP&A Act
• clearing that requires approval under Part 5A of the LLS Act; or a permit under the
Vegetation SEPP
• biodiversity certification of land and related development in the case of an application for
biodiversity certification under the BC Act
• a biodiversity stewardship site in the case of an application for a biodiversity
stewardship agreement under the BC Act.
Proposed conservation measure: a conservation measure proposed to be included as an
approved conservation measure in an order conferring biodiversity certification under Part 8
of the BC Act. Measures that may be proposed to be specified as an approved conservation
measure are identified in section 8.3 of the BC Act.
Reference sites: the relatively unmodified sites that are assessed to obtain local benchmark
information when benchmarks in the Vegetation Benchmarks Database are too broad or
otherwise incorrect for the PCT and/or local situation. Benchmarks can also be obtained
from published sources.
Residual impact: an impact on biodiversity values that remains after all reasonable
measures have been taken to avoid, minimise or mitigate the impacts of development.
Under the BAM, an offset requirement is determined for the remaining impacts on
biodiversity values.
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Retained land: land within a biodiversity certification assessment area that is neither
biodiversity certified nor subject to an approved conservation measure. Existing
development assessment and approval arrangements under the EP&A Act will continue to
apply to this land.
Retirement of credits: the action taken whereby biodiversity credits created for a
biobanking agreement or a biodiversity stewardship agreement are used to offset the
impacts of development, clearing or biodiversity certification.
Riparian buffer: an area of land determined according to Appendix E.
Risk of extinction: the likelihood that the local population, CEEC or EEC will become
extinct either in the short term or in the long term as a result of direct or indirect impacts on
its viability.
Serious and irreversible impact: impacts likely to contribute significantly to the risk of a
threatened species or ecological community becoming extinct in accordance with the
principles set out in clause 6.7(2) of the BC regulation
Site-based development: a development other than a linear-shaped development, or a
multiple fragmentation impact development.
Site context: the value given to landscape attributes of a development site or biodiversity
stewardship site after an assessment undertaken in accordance with Chapter 3.
Species credit species: threatened species or components of species habitat that are
identified in the Threatened Species Data Collection as requiring assessment for species
credits.
Species credits: the class of biodiversity credits created or required for the impact on
threatened species that cannot be reliably predicted to use an area of land based on habitat
surrogates. Species that require species credits are listed in the Threatened Biodiversity
Data Collection.
Species polygon: an area of land identified in Chapter 5 that contains habitat or is occupied
by a threatened species.
State significant development: is development declared to be State significant
development under the EP&A Act.
State significant infrastructure: is development declared to be State significant
infrastructure under the EP&A Act.
Stream order: has the same meaning as in Appendix E.
Subject land: is land subject to a development, activity, clearing, biodiversity certification or
a biodiversity stewardship proposal. It excludes the assessment area which surrounds the
subject land (i.e. the area of land in the 1500 m buffer zone around the subject land or 500 m
buffer zone for linear proposals). In the case of a biodiversity certification proposal, subject
land includes the biodiversity certification assessment area.
Suitable habitat: habitat within an associated IBRA subregion (and geographic limitation if
included) and PCT where the species is expected to occur or periodically use, that is in a
condition suitable to support the species. To be classified as suitable, where a habitat
constraint(s) is associated with the species, at least one is present; and for fauna species,
the native vegetation cover class and patch size thresholds are met.
Threat status class: the extent to which a species or ecological community is threatened
with extinction, or the extent to which a PCT is estimated to have been cleared (see Percent
cleared value).
Threatened Biodiversity Data Collection: part of the BioNet database, published by the
Department and accessible from the BioNet website at www.bionet.nsw.gov.au.
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References
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Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney.
Eyre TJ, Kelly AL and Neldner VJ 2017, Method for the Establishment and Survey of
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Information Technology and Innovation, Brisbane.
IUCN 2001: IUCN. 2001. IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. IUCN Species
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IUCN 2012b: IUCN. 2012b. IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. Second
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Keith D 2004, Ocean Shores to Desert Dunes: the native vegetation of New South Wales
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Strahler AN 1952, Hypsometric (area-altitude) analysis of erosional topology, Geological
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