2016-12-12 General Committee Agenda

GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                              12 DECEMBER 2016


Biodiversity Mapping

As part of the Biodiversity Assessment Report, a mapping analysis was carried out to determine
conservation significance of areas of biodiversity across the Shire. This identified and mapped
the distribution of different biodiversity values, then individually scored these values, using equal
weighing for each value at each location. Cumulative biodiversity scores at each location were
derived by adding individual scores (up to a maximum value of 39). Weighting was then given to
important values such as threatened ecological communities, remnant vegetation, riparian
vegetation and threatened species habitat. Results showed that biodiversity values of highest
significance are associated with waterways, (Noosa River, Kin Kin Creek, Sandy Creek,
Cooroora Creek, Ringtail Creek and Six Mile Creek), protected reserves and the scattered
pockets of remnant vegetation through the inland rural band of Noosa. A detailed description of
this methodology is included in the assessment report.

This biodiversity values mapping will help inform the Biodiversity overlay mapping for the new
planning scheme, although further detailed analysis is required at the individual property level.

Corridor mapping was also completed to identify and analyse existing and potential connecting
vegetation and habitat across the landscape. Habitat nodes, patches and corridors were
identified including their degree of connectivity. This will be used for further identification and
prioritising of potential vegetation offset areas, environment levy acquisitions, community
partnerships and restoration projects. Corridor mapping once further developed, may also be
included in the new planning scheme to help direct revegetation efforts as part of the
development assessment process.

Future Conservation Priorities

The Assessment Report identifies key conservation priorities to help build on existing
conservation initiatives and achievements and to ensure a comprehensive system of
conservation management. These are:
1. Protecting and enhancing local and regional biodiversity values;
2. Building resilience ecosystems that can adapt to changes and risks overtime;
3. Maintaining and enhancing connectivity across the landscape for flora and fauna; and
4. Council working together with conservation groups, government, research agencies and the
   wider community to achieve great outcomes for the environment.

These priorities will be further explored as part of the development of the Environment Strategy
and Biodiversity Plan.

2.    Environment Strategy

Council’s policy framework has the Corporate Plan as the lead policy document - under which sit
the Social Strategy and Local Economic Plan and, once complete, the Environment Strategy and
Transport Strategy.

The Environment Strategy will provide the high level policy direction for environmental
management in Noosa Shire. The following plans will sit under this strategy:
 Biodiversity Conservation Plan (underway)
 Land Conservation Plan (underway)
 Noosa River Management Plan (not commenced)
 Pest Management Plan (complete and being implemented)
 Bushland Reserves Strategic Plan (underway)
                              

                                                                                     Page 39 of 81