Reference document FLORA_AND_FAUNA_ASSESSMENT_RosesRoad_Federal-25_03_07-FF OPW25-0072

                                                                                Native Foresters




4.2      Flora assessment

4.2.1 Vegetation communities in the impact area

State Regional Ecosystem (RE) mapping is accurate for the vegetated parts of the IA
(Figure 1, Appendix H) with a combination of remnant and high value regrowth rainforest
and eucalypt forest (RE 12.3.1/ 12.3.2/ 12.3.11) ecosystems occurring.

RE 12.3.1 aligns with TEC Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia, however the
vegetation is moderately degraded and non-native species are co-dominant in the canopy.
Species composition varied across the site. A moderate diversity of native flora species
was found lining the creek, whereas the areas near the existing track were associated with
a reduced diversity of native species.

There is limited healthy recruitment of forest species consistent with the RE mapping
(Endangered RE 12.3.1) including Giant water gum (Syzygium francisii) and fern species.

Vegetation condition is degraded and uniform across the site, with edge effects associated
with higher concentration of introduced species. In cleared areas, weed presence was
major with outbreaks of Lantana (Lantana camara) and Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum
camphora) which are listed as Restricted Invasive Plants (RIP) under the Biosecurity Act
2014, as well as Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum).

Indicative species, community structure and condition of Endangered RE 12.3.1 is
summarised in Appendix L, with significant trees and features detailed in Appendix M.

4.2.2 Threatened species in the impact area

No threatened flora species were located in the IA.

4.2.3 Koala habitat trees or Fauna habitat trees

Planted Eucalypt species at the southern end of the survey area are considered non-
juvenile KHT’s and should be avoided. Impacts to three mature native trees with DBH
>300mm adjacent to the impact area at the creek will be avoided, however arborist
assessment may be required to manage the health of these retained trees (Tree
identification number 3, 4 & 5, Figure 2). Clearing of several shrubs may arise from works,
however it is proposed that construction will be undertaken so as to avoid large trees where
possible.




36 Roses Road, Federal – Fauna & Flora Assessment                          19