Cover Letter, DA Form 1, Plans, Owners Consent, Coastal Environment Assessment · OPW21/0049

Noosa Spit Coastal Protection Environmental Assessment                                                       21
Conclusion




8          Conclusion
           Dogs Beach is a highly dynamic foreshore zone dominated by dune woodland. The eroding dune
           scarp along most of the study site is not considered to support high fisheries values. Whilst there are
           some marine plants within the dune vegetation along the beach, this will be flagged and placement
           will be avoided over those areas. Overall, the project will have a positive impact on marine plants,
           through minimising erosion and preventing the further loss of marine plants.

           Because the material to be dredged is sandy in nature, it is unlikely to cause any significant impacts
           to water quality; nevertheless, water quality monitoring will be undertaken. Further testing to ensure
           there are no contaminants or acid sulfate soils present will also be undertaken prior to the
           commencement of works; if any contaminated or acidic material is identified, the dredger will avoid
           taking material from that location. A 50m buffer has also been provided to the Fish Habitat Area to
           reduce the potential for any disturbance of fish habitat either directly or indirectly.

           It is also proposed to undertake dredging during winter months, when it is less likely that shorebirds
           will be present in the area; additionally, a search for any nesting/breeding birds will be undertaken
           prior to disturbance.

           With these mitigation measures in place, the works are expected to reduce erosion of Dog Beach,
           providing protection for habitat and recreational values of the Noosa Spit.

           With the proposed mitigation measures in place and adherence to future approval conditions, it is
           concluded that the dredging works are unlikely to have a significant impact on any MSES.




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    Assessment.docx