Survey method
Detailed survey method structure and composition of the various vegetation layers within each regional ecosystem type, together with description of the relevant land zone. Where discrepancies between the mapped regional ecosystems and the on-ground characteristics were observed, the spatial extent of remnant regional ecosystems within the clearing extent was noted. The field survey involved traversing the project area and compiling a list of all introduced plant species noted within the project area and Cumulative Impact Area (CIA). The identity, location and relative abundance of any restricted matter invasive plants listed under the Biosecurity Act was noted (i.e. categorisation of each species as sparse, frequent or dominant), and the precise location was recorded. The timed meander survey method (as outlined in the Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants 2025 (‘the Guidelines’) (version 2.03, 2025)) was employed to search for threatened or near threatened plants within areas mapped as high risk in the DETSI Flora Survey Trigger Map, along with a 100m buffer. The threatened plants or near threatened plants population survey method (as outlined in the Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants 2025 (‘the Guidelines’) (version 2.03, 2025)) was employed for any threatened plant species confirmed during protected plant flora surveys. Opportunistic searches for conservation significant flora species were undertaken within the project area. Opportunistic surveys were informed by the results of the desktop assessment, to direct surveys towards species most likely to occur within the project area. A flora list was compiled of all plant species identified within the project area.
Recording of introduced plant species
Protect plant flora surveys
Protected plant population surveys
Opportunistic protected plant surveys
2.3.2 Fauna field survey methods Terrestrial fauna surveys involved a combination of opportunistic searches for wildlife and/or traces of wildlife, habitat assessments and active searches, as described in Table 2.3.
Table 2.3
Fauna field survey methods
Survey method
Detailed survey method
Opportunist searches for wildlife and traces
Opportunistic searches for conservation significant fauna species and traces were undertaken within the project area. All incidental observations of fauna during surveys were recorded. All secondary fauna traces were recorded including bones, feathers, skulls, sloughed skins, faecal pellets, tracks, burrows and scratches. Habitat assessments were undertaken in representative vegetation communities and geographic locations. At each of the rapid survey sites, the value of habitats for terrestrial fauna was assessed based on the presence of key resources and microhabitats – as determined by the structural complexity of vegetation and the presence of features such as tree hollows, burrows, rocky outcrops, caves, leaf litter and woody debris. Key habitat features important for threatened species were recorded. Active searches were conducted at locations which supported course woody debris, fallen logs and / or an abundance of ground layer microhabitats. 20-minute active searches were undertaken to detect reptile and amphibian species by actively searching beneath rocks, logs, bark, leaf litter and other microhabitats. Remote surveillance cameras (Reconyx Hyperfire 2.0) were deployed at two locations within the survey area. Remote cameras were deployed in representative habitat types to target threatened species. Full-spectrum ultrasonic monitoring devices (Anabat Swift and Anabat Chorus – Titley’s Scientific) were utilised to detect the echolocation calls of microchiropteran species within the project area. Anabat detectors were deployed in two locations around the Upper Mundic Gully tunnel entrance, facing potentially suitable roosting and dispersal habitat for microbats. Anabats were situated along potential flyways to assist in determining if the area was being utilised as habitat. Recordings are currently being analysed by subconsultant Dr Erin Westerhuis.
Habitat assessments
Active searches for reptiles
Remote camera
Anabats
GHD | Heritage Minerals Pty Ltd | 12626510 | Heritage Minerals Mount Morgan 7 This document is in form. The contents, including any opinions, conclusions or recommendations contained in, or which may be implied from, this document must not be relied upon. GHD reserves the right, at any time, without notice, to modify or retract any part or all of the document. To the maximum extent permitted by law, GHD disclaims any responsibility or liability arising from or in connection with this document.
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