3. Noosa Project Restoration Plan V12

In addition, existing patchy rock and rubble, which covers 24 percent of the benthic habitat in the
proposed restoration patch areas will be supplemented with additional rock (i.e., Rock Rubble - 246 m2
& Oyster, Rubble & Mud – 77 m2).

ESP also confirmed that a relatively small section of patchy rock was covered by sparse oysters and
sparse patches of macroalgae (Padina sp. and turfing algae). Based on this habitat survey, less than 479
m2 of this patchy rock and rubble habitat supporting a degraded macroalgal assemblage would be
temporarily disturbed, although the area to be disturbed is likely to be an overestimate as it is planned
to place the majority of substrate onto bare gravel and sand between existing rock patches where
possible and thereby minimise potential disturbance.

The macroalgal assemblages were also in relatively poor condition due to high sediment loads observed
on and around the existing rocky reef and rubble areas, with some sections of reef having a high
coverage of fine sediment.

Given the speed at which Padina can colonise hard surfaces (dead oyster shell) elsewhere in the estuary,
ESP anticipates that supplementary habitat provided as part of the proposed restoration project would
be colonised rapidly within 1 year of deployment, and that coverage would be similar to the current
condition within 2 to 3 years post deployment, particularly in sections that remain subtidal and not
covered by fine silt. Related images are presented in Figures 3.2 to 3.5 below. Additional images are
provided in the ESP report.




                                                                                    Photo: Craig Bohm, TNC


.

Figure 3.2: Tewantin Restoration Site lies adjacent to this shoreline. Noosa Shire Council chambers is
in the background. Public park fringes the site. The Tewantin boat ramp is to the far left behind the
trees and 30m from the edge of the restoration site.




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