Houghton env. report Dec 2014

the retention of these trees but, conversely, there is a strong community safety benefit in
reducing the fire risk through their removal. Such removal would accord with the intent of the
FMP. Council approval would nevertheless be required to remove these trees.

e Much of the other native woody vegetation that has been retained within this 2.5m strip in
the POSCWP would not be considered to comprise fire retardant species per se, eg Bribie
Island cypress and Acacia species. Nevertheless, such species are of some ecological value
and, in my view, do not present a significant existing or future fire accelerant risk, given
appropriate management of fuel load. .For this reason, these species should be retained
intact. On-going monitoring of these species will nevertheless be necessary to ensure the
fire hazard in this strip is maintained at acceptable levels.

Summary

Based on the site assessment and a review of existing information relevant to the site and
clarification of the intent of the FMP:

e The retention of the existing fire-accelerant trees (notably blue gums) within the 5.5m wide
fuel control area is inconsistent with the intent of the FMP. It is a matter of common sense for
reducing fire risk that such trees be removed from this area. This accords with the advice of
representatives of the QFRS at the time of preparation of the FMP.

e The fire risk to the building complex in Lot 5 is considered to be low at present, reflecting the
existing management measures employed by the developer. This risk has the potential to
increase significantly in the future should trees identified as being in need of removal be
retained and allowed to grow to mature specimens. It is strongly recommended that these
trees be removed to reduce this future risk.

Should you require further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours faithfully,

 

David Houghton BSc, GDURP, CEnvP

Houghton Environmental Management

C:/PT216-L2-Letter to Cape Bouvard re FMP 29" December 2014