Karri forest HCV assessment May 2022
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Karri forest HCV assessment May 2022
Karri forest HCV assessment Feedback Please refer to the Forest Products Commission’s website for information on how to provide feedback on this document. Feedback and comments on this document can be directed to: Forest Products Commission Phone: +61 8 9363 4600 Fax: +61 8 9363 4601 Email: certification@fpc.wa.gov.au Acknowledgement The Forest Products Commission (FPC) acknowledges the Noongar Nations that are the traditional owners of the Southwest Boojarah and the Wagyl Kaip and Southern Noongar karri forests and lands. We respect the Elders past, present and emerging. The FPC is a signatory to the Noongar Standard Heritage Agreement and is committed to its Reconciliation Action Plan (FPC, 2021c). Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 1 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment Contents Executive summary............................................................................................................... 3 Background........................................................................................................................... 5 Assessment pathway ............................................................................................................ 7 Best Available Information ................................................................................................ 7 Expert Consultation .......................................................................................................... 7 Gap analysis..................................................................................................................... 9 Threat Assessment........................................................................................................... 9 Identify Control Measures ............................................................................................... 10 Consult stakeholders on assessment and control measures .......................................... 10 Implement Control Measures.......................................................................................... 10 High Conservation Value 1 – Species diversity ................................................................... 11 HCV 1 Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 12 HCV 1 Control Measures ................................................................................................ 23 High Conservation Value 2 – Landscape-level ecosystems and mosaics............................ 28 HCV 2 Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 29 HCV 2 Control Measures ................................................................................................ 30 High Conservation Value 3 – Ecosystems and habitats. ..................................................... 33 HCV3 Outcomes ............................................................................................................ 34 HCV 3 Control Measures ................................................................................................ 38 High Conservation Value 4 – Basic ecosystem services in critical situations....................... 42 HCV 4 Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 42 HCV 4 Control Measures ................................................................................................ 44 High Conservation Value 5 – Community needs ................................................................. 47 HCV 5 Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 48 High Conservation Value 6 – Cultural values ...................................................................... 49 HCV 6 Outcomes ........................................................................................................... 50 HCV 6 Control Measures ................................................................................................ 54 References ......................................................................................................................... 58 Appendix 1 – Shortened forms ............................................................................................ 62 Appendix 2 – Legislation relevant to the karri FMU ............................................................. 64 Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 2 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment Executive summary This Forest Products Commission (FPC) document provides an assessment of High Conservation Values (HCVs) in the karri Forest Management Unit (FMU) using the guidance of FSC Australia’s HCVs evaluation framework (FSC Australia, 2019). The karri FMU is the area of pure and mixed karri forest blocks available for harvest by the FPC. This HCV assessment and the associated management activities implemented, aim to demonstrate that HCVs are not threatened within the karri FMU. HCV 1: Species diversity HCV 1 values are present in the karri FMU. The karri FMU is part of a global biodiversity hotspot, as declared by Conservation International and contains threatened flora and fauna. Management activities to identify and protect these values include targeted flora and fauna surveys, the use of the Fauna Distribution Information System (FDIS) and predator control. Silvicultural regimes are implemented to ensure habitat and structural diversity is maintained. HCV 2: Landscape-level ecosystems and mosaics All of the karri FMU is considered to comprise HCV 2 because the karri FMU is located within a larger contiguous area of jarrah and karri forest much of which is in formal reserves and is of regional significance at the landscape level. HCV 2 in the karri FMU is protected through a number of means including through the allocation of informal reserve systems. The FPC also ensures harvesting is within sustainable levels, limits the size of harvest areas and protects soil and water values. HCV 3: Ecosystems and habitats HCV 3 values present within the karri FMU includes priority ecological communities and old- growth forest (both Type 1 and Type 2 old-growth) Genetically distinct populations that are important for conservation may be present. All Type 1 old-growth forest that has been identified has been placed in the reserve system. Type 2 old-growth forest that has been identified has been placed in temporary protection areas. All proposed harvest coupes containing mature karri forest require pre-harvest inspection to identify the presence of Type 1 and Type 2 old-growth forest. Priority ecological communities are excluded from harvesting. Fauna and flora surveys are carried out prior to harvest. HCV 4: Critical ecosystem services HCV 4 values have been identified in the karri FMU. The karri FMU provides basic ecosystem services for critical situations, such as clean water and irrigation supply systems. The karri FMU includes a significant proportion of the Lefroy Brook Catchment Area, which provides drinking water to regional areas. In order to conserve HCV 4, measures include risk assessments to monitor soil damage and contamination of water courses, and protection of water values through implementation of informal reserves around all watercourses. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 3 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment HCV 5: Community needs HCV 5 is not considered present as local communities are not critically dependant on the resources in the karri FMU to meet their basic needs. The karri FMU is a source of water for some regional areas, but this is covered in HCV 4 section. HCV 6: Cultural values Noongar and non-Aboriginal cultural heritage values are present within the karri FMU. In particular, Noongar peoples have a connection to the land and waters of the South West of Western Australia. Prior to disturbance activities, all Noongar and non-Aboriginal registered sites are checked through relevant databases. The FPC ensures compliance with relevant legislation and consults with a range of stakeholders including representatives for country to ensure protection of HCV 6 values. Other HCV 6 values present in the karri FMU include scientific, aesthetic and social values. These are also identified and protected through the pre-harvest planning process. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 4 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment
Background
This karri forest HCV assessment (HCV assessment) should also be read in conjunction with
the FPC’s Karri Forest Management Plan (KFMP) (FPC, 2021). The KFMP provides an
overview of management of the karri FMU as required under the Forest Management Plan
2014-2023 (FMP 2014) (Conservation Commission, 2013) and incorporates requirements of
forest certification. This HCV assessment has been produced in conjunction with the KFMP
to meet the requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council’s® (FSC®) Controlled Wood
Standard (FSC-STD-30-010; FSC-C120630) and the associated FSC® Australia’s High
Conservation Values (HCVs) evaluation framework (FSC Australia, 2019). The area
evaluated for this HCV assessment is as per the scope of the KFMP, which is restricted to
pure and mixed karri forest blocks available for timber harvesting by the FPC. This area is
known as the karri FMU.
HCV is not typically a term historically used in the management of native forests in Western
Australia. However, the principles associated with the identification and protection of HCVs
closely align with existing policies and practices. This HCV assessment seeks to
demonstrate how the FPC ensures that the HCVs that have been identified are not
threatened by any management activities.
The assessment of HCVs was undertaken using the guidance of FSC® Australia’s HCVs
evaluation framework (the framework) (FSC Australia, 2019). The FPC recognises that
over time the values could change or expand, as identified by stakeholders and experts. For
example, although not explicitly mentioned as a value in the framework, biodiversity hotspots
are covered in HCV 1, 2 and 3 sections.
FSC® Australia’s Directory of Information Sources, which supports the framework, was
initially used to help ensure identification of potential HCVs in the karri FMU. This was
consulted, along with additional sources (i.e. Forest Management Plan 2014-2023 (FMP
2014)), to provide an initial dataset providing an overview of all the potential HCVs within
the karri FMU. The resultant Data audit and gap analysis (FPC, 2013) listed the HCVs and
all the sources consulted to identify these. This was made available to stakeholders in
2013, and in addition the FPC’s assessment of HCV’s has been updated at least annually
to incorporate stakeholder feedback and new information such as updates to listings of
threatened species.
The FPC’s comprehensive assessment of primary data sources was an important first step
in ensuring that potential HCVs have been identified within the karri FMU. In addition, this
HCV assessment describes how each step of the framework has been followed. It is
important to note that HCV identification and protection is integrated into management
planning, where for example, checks for heritage values (values within HCV 6) will be
undertaken for each coupe area prior to disturbance activities. This HCV assessment
outlines how management planning and processes compliment the requirements of the
framework.
The following details the management processes used to identify and protect HCVs from
potential adverse impacts. This management system forms a layered process at five
levels, initially focussing on strategic land management decisions and moving to
operational decision making. All of these steps involve stakeholder consultation.
The five levels are:
1) Assessment of natural, cultural, economic and social values, (otherwise considered
HCVs) formed the basis for establishing and reviewing the reserve system to meet
the requirements of the National Forest Policy Statement (Commonwealth of
Australia, 1995). The values are assessed and management actions are described
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Karri forest HCV assessment
in the Western Australian Comprehensive Regional Assessment (Commonwealth of
Australia, 1998) and the Regional Forest Agreement for the South-West Forest
Region of Western Australia (Commonwealth of Australia and the State of Western
Australia, 1999). This assessment included stakeholder consultation to identify
values at the regional scale.
2) A second tier of land use management planning has further refined and detailed the
management measures for these values in the FMP 2014. In the preparation of the
FMP 2014, additional information has been considered in evaluating HCVs,
including consultation with key stakeholders, public meetings and the release of the
draft FMP 2014 for public comment. Separately, the Department of Water and
Environmental Regulation has produced plans for the relevant water catchments,
which have also been developed with stakeholder input.
3) A number of technical specifications, guidelines and procedures related to the
management of HCVs have been made publically available. During the
development of the FMP 2014 there was also an opportunity for the public to
comment on operational guidelines.
4) Ongoing stakeholder engagement processes encourage the identification of specific
values and the appropriate way to manage for those values. Opportunities for
stakeholder input arise through:
• The release of the indicative three year harvest plans produced by the Parks
and Wildlife Service within the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and
Attractions (DBCA).
• The release of the indicative one year harvest plans produced by the FPC in
consultation with the Parks and Wildlife Service. These are made publically
available and there is invitation provided through notices in newspapers and
on the FPC’s website for members of the public to comment on these one
year indicative harvest plans.
• Preparation of operational coupe plans prepared by the FPC.
In particular, the FPC commits to providing the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea
Council (SWALSC) with the three 1 and one year harvest plans at the earliest
possible opportunity to ensure that SWALSC are provided with an opportunity to
comment and provide feedback.
5) Review of performance occurs through the FPC’s Integrated Forest Management
System (IFMS) and is complimented by periodic forest inspections, which are held
jointly with stakeholders including at times the Parks and Wildlife Service. This helps
facilitate transparency and external feedback, which can in turn improve procedures
and management. In addition, the FPC’s performance against various requirements
under the FMP 2014 is monitored by the Parks and Wildlife Service.
1
Whilst the Parks and Wildlife Service are responsible for the three-year plan, the FPC will also ensure that SWALSC is
provided with a copy of the plan as soon as it is becomes available.
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Karri forest HCV assessment Assessment pathway The following sections identify and assess each of the six HCVs that are listed within the framework. Each HCV has been assessed in accordance with the step by step assessment pathway outlined in the HCVs evaluation framework as described below. Best Available Information Consult the Best Available Information to identify relevant datasets and prepare lists and maps of potential HCV accordingly (HCVs 1-6) HCVs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 The FSC Australia’s Directory of Information Sources was consulted to identify relevant datasets and to prepare lists and maps of potential HCV accordingly. Additional datasets used have been outlined in the Data audit and gap analysis (FPC, 2013). Further data has also been consulted since 2013. In particular, the FPC has reviewed information available on the South West Australia global biodiversity hotspot. HCV 2 Appropriate databases were interrogated to enable mapping and reporting on vegetation communities, condition assessment, wilderness assessment, concentrations of species, old- growth forest, wilderness, growth stage, vegetation condition and remnant vegetation, harvesting history and to determine whether further mapping needed to be commissioned. Additional datasets used are outlined in the Data audit and gap analysis (FPC, 2013). HCV 6 Historical and Aboriginal inventories at the national, state and local levels were consulted. This includes historical accounts and local knowledge. Expert Consultation Consult experts and other knowledgeable stakeholders to identify HCVs (HCVs1-6). HCVs 1-6 There has been stakeholder consultation undertaken on multiple versions of the FPC’s KFMP (FPC, 2020), this HCV assessment, and the associated Data audit and gap analysis (FPC, 2013). In addition, stakeholder consultation has been undertaken in relation to the Western Australian Comprehensive Regional Assessment (CRA) (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998) and the Regional Forest Agreement for the South-West Forest Region of Western Australia (Commonwealth of Australia and the State of Western Australia, 1999), as well as that consultation related to both the FMP 2004 and the FMP 2014. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 7 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment
HCV 1
Expert advice has been provided by the DBCA who contribute to the protection of threatened
and priority species by:
• Maintaining databases of the locations of threatened species and ecological
communities, conducting searches where high impact disturbance such as road
making is proposed, and maintaining licensing systems and compliance checking
programs where any threatened flora is proposed to be ‘taken 2’.
• Developing and reviewing periodically the Forest Fauna Distribution Information
System (FDIS) 3 (Christensen et al., 2005). The system combines the vegetation
complexes mapped for the Regional Forest Agreement (RFA) for the South West
forest region of Western Australia into fauna habitats and correlates those habitats
with the likely presence of particular vertebrate fauna species. It can then be used to
predict the likely occurrence of sensitive species, relative to planned management
arrangements.
• Undertaking biological surveys:
o of priority areas determined in consultation with the Conservation and Parks
Commission;
o used, where appropriate, to assist in evaluating the extent to which
biodiversity is being conserved and the need for any review of the reserve
system; and
o recorded in relevant databases that are accessible as appropriate to other
users.
DBCA is regularly consulted through the Disturbance Approvals System (DAS) process for
each coupe.
FPC employs a consultant ecologist to perform targeted fauna surveys and provide the
associated management recommendations. Qualified experts from DBCA, or contracted by
FPC, perform the required rare flora searches.
Threatened wildlife listings are reviewed annually and changes can be recommended by the
Western Australian Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC) and the Threatened
Ecological Communities Scientific Committee (TECSC). The public is invited to submit
nominations to add to (or delete from) the lists of threatened species (plants and animals)
and threatened ecological communities as described on the Parks and Wildlife Service’s
website.
HCV 2
Over the past 20 years there has been a co-ordinated effort to identify the values related to
landscape level forests as a basis for establishing and reviewing the reserve system to meet
the requirements of the National Forest Policy Statement 1992 (Commonwealth of Australia,
2
‘To take’ in the context of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.
3
This document is currently under revision but has not yet been approved for release by the Parks and Wildlife Service’s
Director of the Conservation and Ecosystem Management Division.
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Karri forest HCV assessment 1995). These assessments, culminating in the Western Australian Comprehensive Regional Assessment (Commonwealth of Australia, 1998) and the Regional Forest Agreement for the South-West Forest Region of Western Australia (Commonwealth of Australia and the State of Western Australia, 1999), included processes for stakeholder consultation to identify values at the regional scale. HCV3 Additional information on stakeholder consultation in relation to old growth forests is provided in the HCV3 section. Gap analysis A gap analysis shall be undertaken of the adequacy of existing data with a focus on Endangered and Critically Endangered species including in circumstances where species are poorly recorded or mapped; and/or habitat requirements are not easily defined or poorly understood. Further investigation and/or research and consultation to address identified significant data gaps shall be undertaken where gaps are identified. This includes targeted surveys/habitat evaluations where required. (HCV1 only) FPC developed a Data Audit and Gap Analysis against the FSC® HCV framework in 2013. This determined that the available data has been adequate to assess HCV presence across the FMU. FPC recognises that information on HCV presence is not always known at the local level. The FDIS is an important tool for fauna that are poorly recorded or mapped (see page 22) as it provides a prediction of species based on vegetation type. FPC conducts targeted fauna surveys which include the use of camera traps in karri coupes prior to operations. Rare flora surveys are conducted in areas proposed for permanent disturbance (for example, roading). Threat Assessment Undertake a threat assessment of proposed management activities on identified HCVs (HCVs 1,3,4,5,6) HCVs 1,3.4.6 Potential threats and impacts from FPC’s management activities are identified in FPC’s Risk Register. They are rated for their likelihood of occurrence and severity of consequences both before and after FPC’s controls and mitigation are in place. The potential threats to HCVs by planned disturbance operations are identified and assessed during the planning process. Prior to any disturbance operation the FPC completes the online Disturbance Approval System (DAS) form, which is submitted to the Parks and Wildlife Service for approval. This identifies whether any HCVs will be impacted and management actions are implemented to minimise the impact. HCV3 The occurrence of old-growth karri forest was mapped during the preparation of the Regional Forest Agreement and since the year 2000 all areas have been protected from harvesting Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 9 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment and associated disturbance. This continues under the Forest Management Plan 2014-2023 (FMP). Pre-disturbance checks for any unmapped old-growth forest are conducted prior to approval being issued for any harvest operations. Identify Control Measures Identify control measures required to maintain identified HCVs (HCVs 1-6) The control measures are described in the address of each HCV. Consult stakeholders on assessment and control measures Consult stakeholders on assessment and control measures (HCVs 1-6) There has been stakeholder consultation undertaken on multiple versions of the FPC’s KFMP (FPC, 2021), this HCV assessment, and the associated Data audit and gap analysis (FPC, 2013). Documents including Procedure 47 – Identification, assessment and demarcation of Type 2 old growth karri forest, Procedure 46 – Targeted fauna surveys within pure and mixed karri forest, the Karri fauna monitoring training manual, and reports on karri fauna monitoring objectives are made available on FPCs website. Implement Control Measures Implement control measures (HCVs 1-6) The FPC maintains an integrated forest management system (IFMS). The FPC uses formal governance software (Governance Manager) to internally manage its compliance with certification requirements and to help facilitate continuous improvement. The FPC implements control measures as specified in the FMP and on the DAS form approved by the Parks and Wildlife Service. The Parks and Wildlife Service monitors the FPC’s compliance. In addition, the FPC regularly monitors contractor compliance. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 10 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment
High Conservation Value 1 – Species diversity
Concentrations of biological diversity including endemic species, and rare,
threatened or endangered species, that are significant at global, regional or national
levels.
Designation Description Present in
FMU
HCV 1.1 Areas that contain significant concentrations of rare and Yes
threatened species or that contain habitat critical to the survival
and long-term viability of these species.
HCV 1.2 Areas that contain centres of endemism. Yes
HCV 1.3 Areas that contain significant concentrations of rare species that Yes
are poorly reserved at the IBRA region scale
HCV 1.4 Areas with mapped significant seasonal concentrations* of Likely
species
HCV 1.5 Areas of high species/community diversity Yes
HCV 1.6 Refugia Yes
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From the High Conservation Values (HCVs) evaluation framework (FSC Australia, 2019).
HCV 1 – Definitions
Habitat includes features such as hollow bearing trees, and other features that are critical to survival
and long term viability to a significant concentration of that species.
‘Refugia’: an area identified in formally recognised reports or peer-reviewed journals as performing
a significant function in maintaining species during, for example, periods of climate variability and
extremes; human induced causes such as disease; or population fluctuations from natural or
human-induced causes.
‘Significant concentrations’: Concentrations of species that are considered significant at a global,
regional or national scale.
‘Areas that contain significant concentrations of rare and threatened species’: may include
specific areas where there are a significant number of multiple species, or where there is a
proportionately large population of an individual species. Concentrations of species are often linked
to one stage of a species’ life history and associated with activities such as breeding, staging,
feeding or over-wintering.
‘Areas with Significant seasonal concentrations of species’: areas important to the lifecycle or
migration paths of migratory and communal breeding species.
Best Available Information for HCV 1
Includes as applicable:
• Recovery plans and related documents
• Habitat mapping
• Databases
• Peer reviewed journal articles
• Reports by government bodies and credible institutions, organisations and experts
• Appendix A of the Australian National Risk Assessment
• Expert research and advice (including for high SIR operations, provided by a locally
knowledgeable expert independent of the organization), including Population Viability
Analysis and other relevant techniques
• Expert and knowledgeable stakeholder data
• Field surveys.
HCV 1 Outcomes
The South West of Western Australia, an area extending from north of Kalbarri to east of
Cape Arid) is recognised for its exceptional biodiversity. It is home to approximately 7 400
species of vascular plants, half of which are endemic to the region. Long isolation, climatic
shifts and nutrient poor soils have contributed to unique species and ecosystems. The
majority of original vegetation in the vast area is made up of semi-arid woodlands,
shrublands and sandplains.
The region is recognised as one of 36 global biodiversity hotspots by Conservation
International. The criteria for a biodiversity hotspot are to have at least 1500 endemic
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vascular plant species and 30% or less of its original natural vegetation remaining. Overall
the South West province contains 30% of its original vegetation, with much of the historical
clearing being implemented for agriculture.
A subset of this large and biodiverse area, the higher rainfall karri forest areas, containing
the karri FMU, are relatively species poor (Hopper and Gioia, 2004, Myers et al., 2000)
compared to the remainder of the hotspot. The karri forest ecosystem also retains a much
larger proportion of its original vegetation, with 82% of the original extent of karri forest still
existing, with 66% of this protected within reserves.
Communities with which the karri forest is associated (heaths, woodlands, granite outcrops
and swamps) are significantly more species rich than the forest itself, especially in the
southeast of the distribution (Christensen, 1992, Hopper et al., 1992).
In 2003 the Australian Government identified 15 national biodiversity hotspots. The national
biodiversity hotspot areas in Western Australia fall outside of the karri FMU.
While present within the karri FMU, the most significant elements of this HCV, such as the
highest levels of endemism and biodiversity, endangered species and communities are
generally located outside the area of the FPC’s activities.
HCV 1.1 Areas that contain significant concentrations of rare and threatened species
or that contain habitat critical to the survival and long term viability of these species
Threatened species are those assessed as being under risk of extinction. In Western
Australia, the Biodiversity Conservation Act provides for the conservation and protection of
native plants (flora) and animals (fauna). The Act allows the Minister for Environment to
declare a higher level of protection to flora and fauna that are likely to become extinct, are
rare, or otherwise in need of special protection.
Threatened flora and fauna are further ranked according to their level of threat using the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List categories and criteria. The
rankings include (Parks and Wildlife, 2019):
• CR: Critically Endangered – considered to be facing an extremely high risk of
extinction in the wild in the immediate future.
• EN: Endangered – considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in
the near future.
• VU: Vulnerable – considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the
medium-term future.
• MI: Migratory birds protected under an international agreement – birds that are
subject to an agreement between the government of Australia and the governments
of Japan (JAMBA), China (CAMBA) and The Republic of Korea (ROKAMBA), and
the Bonn Convention, relating to the protection of migratory birds.
• CD: Species of special conservation interest (conservation dependent fauna) - fauna
of special conservation need being species dependent on ongoing conservation
intervention to prevent it becoming eligible for listing as threatened.
• OS: Other specially protected species - fauna otherwise in need of special protection
to ensure their conservation.
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In addition to threatened species, ‘priority’ taxa have also been listed. Priority species are
ranked in order of priority for evaluation of conservation status with Priority 1 (P1) being the
highest priority, down to Priority 4 (P4), which is the lowest priority. Priority 1, 2 and 3
(poorly-known species) are ‘…possibly threatened species that do not meet survey criteria,
or are otherwise data deficient…’ (Parks and Wildlife, 2019). Priority 4 species are rare, near
threatened and other species in need of monitoring.
Priority categories are defined in the document titled Conservation Codes for Western
Australian Flora and Fauna (DBCA, 2019).
The following table (Table 1) lists the threatened and priority species that may occur
throughout the karri FMU. This list has been developed through database searches from
Parks and Wildlife’s Species and Communities Branch, the FDIS (see description under
HCV 1.1 Control Measures ) , along with field data from FPC’s fauna surveys.
This table includes a probability of occurrence ranking, with 1 being the highest and 4 being
the lowest likelihood of being present in the karri FMU.
The rankings are defined as follows:
1) The species has been recorded in the area, there is a confirmed sighting or
secondary signs of the species within the area, and extensive or sufficient suitable
habitat. A ranking of 1 will also indicate a “significant concentration” of the species is
likely within the KFMU, as per the HCV 1.1 descriptor.
2) Likely to occur in the area, extensive or sufficient suitable habitat within the area,
or the area contains habitat that is likely to be critical to the long term viability of the
species, and the species has been recorded within surrounding areas.
3) May occur in the area, limited or no confirmed suitable habitat within the area, but
the species has been recorded within the surrounding areas.
4) Not likely to occur in the area, no confirmed suitable habitat within the area, but
the species has been recorded within the surrounding areas.
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Table 1: List of threatened and priority fauna present in the karri FMU*
* This list was last updated in February 2022 following the release of the Wildlife Conservation (Specially Protected Fauna)
Notice in September 2018. Note the Wildlife Conservation (Specially Protected Fauna) Notice 2018 has been transitioned
under regulations 170, 171 and 172 of the Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2018 to be the lists of Threatened, Extinct and
Specially Protected species under Part 2 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.
Probability Recovery
Conservation
Scientific Name Common Name Ranking
of Plan*/Conservation
occurrence Advice**
Birds
Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper MI 4 ---
Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone MI 4 ---
Atrichornis clamosus Noisy Scrub Bird EN 3 Recovery Plan
Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern EN 4 Recovery Plan
Cacatua pastinator
Muir’s Corella CD 3
pastinator
Management Plan
Sharp-tailed
Calidris acuminata MI 4 ---
Sandpiper
Calidris alba Sanderling MI 4 ---
Conservation Advice
Calidris ferruginea Curlew sandpiper CR 4
Interim Recovery Plan
Calidris melanotos Pectoral sandpiper MI 4 ---
Calidris ruficollis Red-necked stint MI 4 __
Calidris subminuta Long-toed Stint MI 4 __
Calyptorhynchus banksii Forest Red-tailed
VU 1 Recovery Plan
naso Black Cockatoo
Calyptorhynchus baudinii Baudin’s Cockatoo EN 1 Recovery Plan
Calyptorhynchus latirostris Carnaby’s Cockatoo EN 1 Recovery Plan
Conservation Advice
Charadrius leschenaultii Greater Sand Plover VU 4
Interim Recovery Plan
Other specially
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon protected fauna
2 ---
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Probability Recovery
Conservation
Scientific Name Common Name Ranking
of Plan*/Conservation
occurrence Advice**
Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern MI 4 ---
Australian Little
Ixobrychus dubius P4 4 ---
Bittern
Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern (South
P2 4 ---
australis West subpopulation)
Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl VU 1 Recovery Plan
Ninox connivens connivens Barking Owl P3 2 ---
Oxyura australis Blue-billed Duck P4 3 ---
Pandion cristatus Osprey MI 4 ---
Pacific Golden
Pluvialis fulva MI 4 ---
Plover
Thalasseus bergii Crested Tern MI 4 ---
Common
Tringa nebularia MI 4 __
Greenshank
Tringa stagnates Marsh Sandpiper MI 4 __
Thinornis rubricollis Hooded Plover P4 4 ---
Tyto novaehollandiae
Masked owl P3 1 ---
novaehollandiae
Fish
Mud Minnow/
Galaxiella munda VU 1 ---
Western Dwarf
Galaxias
Black-striped
Galaxiella nigrostriata Minnow/ Black- EN 1 Conservation advice
striped Dwarf
Galaxias
Geotria australis Pouched Lamprey P3 1 ---
Lepidogalaxias
Salamander Fish EN 1 ---
salamandroides
Balston’s Pygmy
Nannatherina balstoni VU 1 Conservation Advice
Perch
Nannoperca pygmaea Little Pygmy Perch EN 1 Conservation Advice
Invertebrates
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Probability Recovery
Conservation
Scientific Name Common Name Ranking
of Plan*/Conservation
occurrence Advice**
Western Pygmy
Bertmainius opimus P3 2 ---
Trapdoor Spider
Copepod
Calamoecia elongata P3 1 ---
(Northcliffe)
Daphnia occidentalis Water Flea (Karri P3 1 ---
forests)
Non-marine
Fibulacamptus bisetosus Harpacticoid P2 1 ---
copepod (Muirillup
Rock)
Idiosoma sigillatum. Shield backed P3 3 ---
trapdoor spider
Pseudohydryphantes doegi P2 4 ---
Doeg's watermite
Carter’s Freshwater
Westralunio carteri VU 1 Conservation advice
Mussel
Mammals
Bettongia penicillata Woylie, Brush-tailed
CR 1 Recovery Plan
ogilbyi Bettong
Chuditch, Western
Dasyurus geoffroii VU 1 Recovery Plan
Quoll
Western False
Falsistrellus mackenziei P4 1 ---
Pipistrelle
Hydromys chrysogaster Water Rat P4 1 ---
Isoodon fusciventer Quenda P4 1 ---
Macrotis lagotis Bilby VU 4 Recovery Plan
Myrmecobius fasciatus Numbat EN 1 Recovery Plan
Notamacropus eugenii
Tammar Wallaby P4 1 ---
derbianus
Western Brush
Notamacropus irma P4 1 ---
Wallaby
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Phascogale tapoatafa South-western Brush- Conservation
1 ---
wambenger tailed Phascogale Dependent
Pseudocheirus Western Ringtail
CR 1 Recovery Plan
occidentalis Possum
Setonix brachyurus Quokka VU 1 Recovery Plan
Reptiles
Elapognathus minor Short-nosed Snake P2 1 ---
*Recovery plans are developed in accordance with Policy 35 Conserving Threatened Species and Communities (Department
of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, 2015). Where the Forest Vertebrate Fauna Distribution Information System
(FDIS) (Christensen et al., 2005) report has shown the potential presence of a rare, threatened or endangered species,
management strategies are implemented in accordance with Parks and Wildlife Service’s approval to ensure the protection of
those species identified.
** In addition to Recovery Plans, conservation advice under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999 are available for many of the nationally listed species. Conservation advice include information on threats and
management. In addition to these documents, FPC liaises with DBCA and its contract ecologist to stay informed of any
developments in the management of these species.
(i) Threatened flora
A current list of threatened flora can be found on Parks and Wildlife Service’s website. Of
these species, Table 2 lists those that have been identified to be present in the karri
FMU. Fungi and cryptograms are included in this list. Links to the available Recovery
Plans and Conservation Advice are also provided in Table 2.
Table 2: List of threatened flora present in the karri FMU*
* This list was last reviewed in March 2021
Recovery
Conservation
Scientific name Common name Plan/Conservation
Ranking
Advice**
Actinotus repens (a herb) P3 ---
Amanita fibrillopes (fungi) P3 ---
Amanita kalamundae (fungi P3 ---
Andersonia sp. Echidna (a shrub) P2 ---
Astartea granitica (a shrub) P3 ---
Caladenia christineae Christine’s Spider Orchid VU Conservation Advice
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Recovery
Conservation
Scientific name Common name Plan/Conservation
Ranking
Advice**
Caladenia harringtoniae Harrington’s Spider Orchid VU Conservation Advice
Caladenia winfieldii Majestic Spider Orchid EN Recovery Plan
Carex tereticaulis (a sedge) P3 --
Interim Recovery Plan
Commersonia apella Many-flowered Commersonia CR
Conservation Advice
Corybas abditus Swamp Helmet Orchid P3 --
Cyathochaeta teretifolia (a sedge) P3 --
Deyeuxia inaequalis (a grass) P1 --
Dillwynia sp. Capel (a shrub) P1 --
Gonocarpus pusillus (a herb) P4 --
Gonocarpus simplex (a herb) P4 --
Hemigenia microphylla (a shrub) P3 --
Inocybe redolens (fungi) P2 --
Kennedia glabrata Northcliffe Kennedia VU Conservation Advice
Lambertia rariflora subsp.
(a shrub) P3 --
lutea
Leptinella drummondii (a herb) P3 ---
Lepyrodia heleocharoides (a sedge-like herb) P3 ---
Lomandra ordii (a herb) P4 ---
Myriophyllum trifidum (an aquatic herb) P4 ---
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Recovery
Conservation
Scientific name Common name Plan/Conservation
Ranking
Advice**
Netrostylis sp. Blackwood
(a sedge) P3 ---
River
Placynthium nigrum (a lichen) P3 ---
Poa billardierei (a grass) P3 ---
Pultenaea pinifolia (a shrub) P3 ---
Reedia spathacea Reedia EN Conservation Advice
Rorippa cygnorum (a herb) P2 ---
Senecio leucoglossus (a herb) P4 ---
Synaphea affin. hians (a shrub) P3 ---
Tetratheca exasperata (a shrub) P3 ---
Thysanotus formosus (a herb) P1 ---
Usnea pulvinata (a lichen) P1 ---
Xanthoparmelia louisii (a lichen) P2 ---
**Recovery Plans and Conservation Advice are developed in accordance with Policy 35 Conserving Threatened Species and
Communities (Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, 2015). In addition to these documents, FPC liaises
with DBCA to stay informed of any developments in the management of these species.
The endangered Majestic spider orchid Caladenia winfieldii is known from a single
population occurring within the karri FMU. It is not associated with the karri forest itself and
grows along seasonal creeks in low woodland comprising of Eucalyptus rudis, Melaleuca
preissiana and Banksia littoralis. The main threats to this species are feral pigs,
inappropriate fire, kangaroo grazing, hydrological change and dieback (DEC, 2009c).
The Many flowered commersonia Commersonia apella was rediscovered in the Warren
region in 2019, after last being recorded in the area in 1920. This species is listed as
Critically Endangered due to previously being known from only one other small extant
population near Esperance. A number of new populations have now been found along
creeklines in the karri forest, within the informal reserve system.
HCV 1.2 Areas that contain centres of endemism
South Western WA contains centres of both endemism and biodiversity. Crisp et al. (2001)
demonstrated that South West WA scores more strongly as a centre of endemism than a
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Uncontrolled when printedKarri forest HCV assessment centre of species richness. Slatyer et al. (2007) identified 11 main centres of anuran (frog) endemism on the Australian continent with‘…the most important being the Wet Tropics and the south-west near Bunbury-Augusta and near Walpole’ (p. 583). Studies of aquatic and invertebrate fauna show similar patterns (Hearn et al, 2002). Hopper et al 1992 found the Warren bioregion to be the most important centre of endemism for conservative relictual high rainfall (vascular plant) taxa in WA. Within the Warren bioregion, the most significant centres of floral endemism are the Scott River Plains, the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge, and the area around Walpole (Lyons et al 2000, McKenzie et al, 2002), areas outside the karri FMU. There are very few endemic flora confined to the karri forest itself (Hopper, et al 1992), a habitat which is relatively species poor in comparison to its surroundings (see HCV 1.5). No species of vertebrate fauna have been identified as endemic to the karri FMU, though some invertebrate fauna may be endemic to this area (Bain, 2020). Undocumented centres of endemism within the karri FMU are generally associated with diverse ecotypes such as granite outcrops, wetlands and banksia woodlands. These ecotypes are generally outside of the FPC’s harvesting operations or are identified during fauna surveys for exclusion from operations. While the highest levels of endemism are outside the forest management area, they are significant on a national level and are assessed as being a HCV that requires consideration in managing timber harvesting operations within the karri FMU. HCV 1.3 Areas that contain significant concentrations of rare species that are poorly reserved at the IBRA region scale Rare species are considered in forest management planning regardless of their status in the IBRA region. The DBCA Priority rankings (see Conservation Codes for Western Australian Flora and Fauna (DBCA, 2019) address this. These species are included in the address of HCV 1.1. HCV 1.4 Areas with mapped seasonal concentrations of species Birdlife Australia has identified Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in Western Australia for bird conservation including areas of value for Migratory species. None of these are present in the karri FMU. The pouched lamprey (Geotria australis, Priority 3) migrates upstream from the ocean to spawn in the permanent fresh headwater creeks throughout the Warren bioregion. The larval lampreys spend several years filter feeding in these pools and creeks before maturing and migrating to the ocean (Morgan, et al 1998). Within the FMU, fauna surveys currently assess indicators of activity for threatened species and are likely to detect seasonal activity for species for which indicators are persistent in the environment, for example, cockatoo feeding debris or chewing around hollows associated with breeding activity. Where such indicators are detected, provisions are made that ensure protection of habitat that is important for these seasonal uses. This HCV is assessed as likely to be present in the karri FMU. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 21 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment HCV 1.5 Areas of high species/community diversity The South West Australian biodiversity hotspot as declared by Conservation International is represented in Figure 1, which shows the hotspot location in relation to the karri FMU. The area covers a vast expanse of over 350 000 square kilometres (Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, n.d.) and includes urban population centres such as the Perth metropolitan area. The main threats to the biodiversity values within the hotspot are land clearing, salinity, feral animals and Phytophthora cinnamomi (Commonwealth of Australia, n.d.). In a contrast to this highly biodiverse region, species richness in the karri forest is substantially lower than in the surrounding ecosystems of heathlands, woodlands, granite outcrops and swamps (Christensen, 1992, Hopper et al., 1992). These areas are either outside the FMU or in informal reserves. Species diversity in karri is also lower than jarrah or wandoo forests (Bradshaw, 2015). Pockets of higher species/community diversity exist within the karri FMU, but they will generally be associated with habitats such as riparian systems, granite outcrops, banksia and taxandria woodlands. These will often be within the informal reserves and protected from harvesting. Any occurrence within proposed harvesting cells are likely to be detected during fauna surveys and strategies applied for their protection. This HCV is assessed as present in the karri FMU. HCV 1.6 Refugia The term refugia refers to a habitat that species can retreat to, persist in, and expand from under climate change. In the Australian context, areas with refuge potential may be cooler, wetter and have greater topographic relief (for example, mountains, valleys and outcrops) (CSIRO, 2014). The Warren bioregion experiences the highest rainfall in South West Western Australia and is thus a refuge for relict species from wetter and milder climatic conditions (Hearn et al, 2002). All reasonably undisturbed, permanently moist freshwater habitats are potential refuges for Gondwanan relictual aquatic species and/or threatened taxa or communities (Wardell-Johnson and Horwitz, 2000). Swamps and outcrop sites are likely to have been important refugia through the climate fluctuations of the past (Wardell-Johnson and Horwitz, 1996). In the forests between Walpole and Denmark, the karri occurs in mix or is replaced by the three tingle tree species (Eucalyptus guilfoylei, E. jacksonii and E. brevistylis). These species are unique in Western Australia and are considered relicts from a wetter Gondwanan past. Other relictual biota such as the tingle trapdoor spider are found in this habitat. The tingle forests are considered refugia (Wardell-Johnson and Coates, 1996). Tingle forests exist only outside the karri FMU and mainly in protected conservation reserves. Within the karri FMU, riparian zones and aquatic ecosystems offer varying degrees of refuge during dry periods. This HCV is assessed as present in the karri FMU. Version control: V07/May 2022 Page 22 of 64 Authority: Director Forest Operations Responsible Officer: Senior Coordinator Forest Management Systems Security classification: Public Uncontrolled when printed
Karri forest HCV assessment
HCV 1 Control Measures
The ‘Biological diversity’ section of the KFMP (FPC, 2020) outlines the reserve system
throughout the FMP 2014 which has been designed and implemented to manage risks to
HCV 1.
The Parks and Wildlife Service (and in some cases an FPC contractor) conducts targeted
flora surveys prior to carrying out any activity likely to result in permanent or semi-permanent
disturbance (e.g. road construction or construction of log landings). These flora surveys are
conducted by qualified experts.
In addition, extensive fauna research has informed the approach taken in protecting
threatened and priority fauna. FDIS is checked through the DAS process, and where there is
potential for the presence of rare, threatened or endangered species, management
strategies are implemented in accordance with the Parks and Wildlife Service’s instructions.
The following excerpt of the FDIS manual (Christensen et al., 2005) provides an overview of
the system.
Excerpt of the FDIS manual (Christensen et al., 2005) 4:
FDIS is a computerized system for predicting the occurrence of vertebrate fauna species in
any given area of forest prior to timber harvesting or prescribed burning operations.
The system allows ‘sensitive’ species to be taken account of prior to planned disturbance
events thereby obviating the need for expensive biological surveys. As a predictive system
FDIS has a number of advantages over the biological survey method that is generally used to
discover what species are present within an area.
Commenced in 1996, FDIS developed from a system of field inspections of forest blocks
containing proposed harvesting coupes by the two senior authors. The likelihood of the
presence of fauna species in the block was assessed in the field by using a list of 279
vertebrate forest species and listing them against major vegetation associations found by field
inspection to be present within the block. Species were listed and scored on a scale of 0-3,
scores being allocated using the combined accumulated knowledge and experience of the two
senior authors (total of more than 60 years) together with information contained in standard
texts on fauna.
The system was later refined, the Havel/Mattiske RFA Vegetation Complexes map, replacing
the field trips as a basis for the fauna predictions. Over a period of 2 years various
combinations of the more than 300 Vegetation Complexes were assessed against fauna
distributions. Using trial and error it was found that a combination of the major forest
formations together with moisture and temperature gradients, both dictated largely by latitude
and distance from the sea, gave the most reliable Vegetation Complexes combinations for
predicting fauna. As a result 54 ‘Fauna Habitats’ were developed for use in predicting fauna
distribution within the forested area.
A Fauna Habitats/Vertebrate species table, (54 habitats/306 species), comprising a total of
16,524 possible combinations, forms the basis of the predictions which can now be made
readily on the computer for any given area within the forest. The use of the Havel/Mattiske
maps eliminates the need for field visits to each coupe and every proposed prescribed burn
area each year.
The system has been validated using the more recent and most accurate WA Museum and
CALM [now Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions] fauna records. Further
4
This extract has been taken from the Executive summary (p. 6-7) and Timber harvesting (p. 21-22).
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validation is needed which may be simply done by carrying out biological surveys, one or two
a year over the next few years in selected areas of the forest where information is most
limited.
Species schedules, that give details of relevant biology as well as recommendations for
management, have been developed for each ‘sensitive’ species. The system also contains
tables with extra information on fauna succession following timber harvesting and regeneration
and prescribed fire.
The object of the assessment procedure is to identify what vertebrate fauna are likely to occur
within felling coupes prior to any timber harvesting and regeneration operations taking place.
This allows measures to be taken to further protect any species that might need to be given
special attention, over and above the routine precautions built into the current silvicultural
prescriptions.
The FDIS procedure is an indirect method based on predictions of fauna occurrences in
mapped vegetation complexes. Christensen and Liddelow [1997] consider that this indirect
method of assessment is superior to carrying out actual biological surveys in each coupe, for
the following reasons:
• standard biological survey, unless repeated over several years, can only provide a
‘point in time’ snapshot of the fauna that inhabits any habitat;
• the ‘rare’ and restricted species, the species of most interest to managers, are often
not recorded during biological surveys because these species are usually uncommon
and few in number;
• the activity of many species, in particular reptiles and birds, is strongly regulated by
seasonal factors, which means that a ‘once off’ biological survey is unlikely to locate
all the species that occur in an area; and
• surveys on small areas, such as a felling coupe, will inevitably underestimate the
species that may be present in the general area and which utilize the coupe but are
not necessarily present on the coupe all of the time.
It is suggested that biological surveys in these situations can in fact be counter-productive,
managers may be ‘lulled into a false sense of security’ by the fact that an area has been
actually ‘checked on the ground.’ In reality it is almost certain the list of fauna produced as a
result of a biological survey of a coupe or an area in preparation for prescribed burning, will be
incomplete. Worst of all, the species that are missed during biological surveys are likely to be
the less obvious and less common species, the very species managers need to know about.
The indirect predictive technique on the other hand allows attention to be focussed on the
species sensitive to timber harvest and regeneration and prescribed fire in the most practical
and cost effective manner.
Thus in cases where predictions indicate probable presence, follow-up field assessment and
confirmation of a species presence can be undertaken using targeted survey techniques if this
is deemed to be necessary. In practice we have found that this usually only applies to a limited
number of coupes.
Biological surveys are nevertheless a very useful mechanism for improving our knowledge of
species distribution and every opportunity should be taken to carry out biological surveys in
areas of forest not previously surveyed or where FDIS information needs to be improved.
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