environmental management plan: “riverslea foreshore” media releases/2014_2015 media... ·...

ENVIRONMENTAL

MANAGEMENT PLAN:

“Riverslea Foreshore” (DRAFT)

June 2013

Prepared by Cape to Cape Catchments Group on behalf of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1

1.1 BACKGROUND ...................................................................................................... 1 1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................. 1 1.3 THE STUDY AREA ................................................................................................. 2 1.4 LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY FRAMEWORK ..................................................... 2 1.5 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ...................................................................... 2

2. CURRENT STATE AND RECOMMENDATIONS: BIOPHYSICAL FEATURES ..... 4

2.1 SITE DESCRIPTION, VESTING AND PURPOSE ................................................ 4 2.2 CLIMATE ................................................................................................................. 4 2.3 TOPOGRAPHY ........................................................................................................ 4 2.4 GEOLOGY ............................................................................................................... 4 2.5 ECOLOGICAL CONNECTIVITY AND LINKAGE .............................................. 4 2.6 SITE VEGETATION ................................................................................................ 5 2.7 WEED BURDEN ...................................................................................................... 6

2.7.1 Isolated very high priority environmental weeds. ................................................ 7 2.7.2 Blackberry ............................................................................................................ 7 2.7.3 Disturbed or degraded areas of lower priority weeds .......................................... 7 2.7.2 Pre and Post Fire Weed Control ........................................................................... 9

2.8 REVEGETATION .................................................................................................... 9 2.9 NATIVE FAUNA ................................................................................................... 10 2.10 INTRODUCED FAUNA ........................................................................................ 11 2.11 PHYTOPHTHORA DIEBACK .............................................................................. 11 2.12 FIRE MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................... 11 2.13 EROSION ............................................................................................................... 12

3. CURRENT STATE AND RECOMMENDATIONS: HUMAN USE ATTRIBUTES ...... 13

3.1 INDIGENOUS HERITAGE ................................................................................... 13 3.2 RECREATIONAL USE ......................................................................................... 13 3.3 FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE ............................................................. 13

3.3.1 Pedestrian Access ............................................................................................... 13 3.3.2 Darch Brook Foreshore Trails Access ............................................................... 14 3.3.3 Southern foreshore link to Barrett St Reserve ................................................... 14 3.3.4 Vehicle Access and Parking ............................................................................... 16 3.3.5 Facilities and Infrastructure ............................................................................... 16 3.3.6 Rubbish, Litter and Greenwaste ......................................................................... 17 3.3.7 Dogs and Dog Waste ......................................................................................... 18 3.3.8 Signage ............................................................................................................... 18

3.4 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT ....................................................................... 19

4.0 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS ..................................................................................... 20

4.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 20 4.2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ........................................................................................ 20

4.2.1 Recreation .......................................................................................................... 20 4.2.2 Social/ Community ............................................................................................ 20 4.2.3 Conservation ...................................................................................................... 21

4.3 RECOMMENDED ACTIONS ............................................................................... 22

REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................... 24

APPENDIX 1: VEGETATION CONDITION SCALE ......................................................... 25

APPENDIX 2: NATIVE FLORA SPECIES LIST ................................................................. 26

APPENDIX 2 CONTINUED: NATIVE FLORA SPECIES LIST APPENDIX 3: INTRODUCED FLORA SPECIES OBSERVED DURING SITE ASSESSMENT. ............ 27

APPENDIX 3: INTRODUCED FLORA SPECIES OBSERVED DURING SITE ASSESSMENT. ...................................................................................................................... 28

APPENDIX 4: ISOLATED AREAS OF PRIORITY ENVIRONMENTAL WEED INVASION ............................................................................................................................. 29

APPENDIX 5: METHODS OF WEED CONTROL .............................................................. 30

APPENDIX 6: SUGGESTED SPECIES FOR USE IN NODES OF REVEGETATION .. 31

APPENDIX 7: PHOTOS ........................................................................................................ 32

FIGURE 1: STUDY AREA

FIGURE 2: VEGETATION AND WEED MANAGEMENT

FIGURE 3: PATHWAYS, EROSION AND INTERPRETIVE RECOMMENDATIONS

1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND

The ‘Riverslea Foreshore’ is a highly valued bushland reserve in the heart of Margaret River with significant biodiversity, river foreshore protection and recreational values. It encompasses a collection of foreshore stretches which are Shire-managed reserves. While some management actions have been undertaken in the past by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River (the Shire), the Cape to Cape Catchments Group, local landholders and developers, it is recognised that the foreshore would benefit from an overarching, comprehensive plan to guide, plan and prioritise future actions. This document builds on the generic management recommendations of the July 2006, Shire of Augusta Margaret River report: “Assessment, prioritisation and management planning for biodiversity conservation for reserves vested with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River” and previous plans prepared by developers for various sections of the foreshore. The planning process for the development of this environmental management plan (EMP) involves the following:

1. Preparation of draft EMP involving field assessments and significant community consultation.

2. Draft EMP reviewed and approved for advertisement by Shire of Augusta - Margaret River.

3. Public advertising of the draft document and formal community consultation process. 4. Final EMP prepared after consideration of submissions. 5. EMP adopted by Council and implemented by Shire of Augusta - Margaret River.

1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN The Cape to Cape Catchments Group (CCG) prepared the plan between March 2013 and June 2013, following a detailed site assessment and consultation with local residents, key stakeholders and relevant Shire staff. The EMP provides local site information and strategies for the area to guide future management and use of this important foreshore. Development of the plan has involved:

• assessment of the current physical and ecological state of the site including native vegetation, weed burden, erosion prone areas, pedestrian and vehicular access and recreational facilities and usage;

• identification of threatening processes that need addressing in order to protect or restore values;

• consultation with local residents as well as community and agency stakeholders; and • development of detailed, prioritised and budgeted management recommendations for

improving and preserving the site values. The purpose of this management plan is to identify management recommendations to maintain and improve the key qualities of the area, namely:

• conservation values; • recreation values; • social values; and • river foreshore protection.

The objectives are to: 1. maintain and enhance conservation and protection values of the foreshore;

1 Environmental Management Plan: Riverslea Foreshore June 2013

2. facilitate sustainable recreation; and 3. foster community ownership of and responsibility for the foreshore.

Limitations must be acknowledged in relation to the term and timing of the project (for example, outside of flowering time for some native plants and winter weeds). The scope of the works did not include a detailed flora and fauna survey of the site, however previous studies have. 1.3 THE STUDY AREA

This management plan covers the following areas: • the southern foreshore areas of the Margaret River upstream of Barrett St Reserve

through to the confluence with Darch Brook; • the foreshore of the Darch Brook from the confluence with the Margaret River

upstream to the future extension of the Rapids Landing subdivision; and • the foreshore of two tributaries of the Darch Brook running eastwards through

Riverslea and Margaret River Fields subdivisions.

This area is shown in Figure 1. For the purposes of this plan this area will be referred to as the ‘Riverslea Foreshore’ or ‘the foreshore’. 1.4 LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY FRAMEWORK A broad range of legislation, policy and guidelines has been considered in the preparation of this plan including:

• Wildlife Conservation Act (1950); • Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999); • Shire of Augusta Margaret River Local Planning Scheme No 1 (2010); • Shire of Augusta Margaret River Friends’ Group Manual (2006); • Shire of Augusta Margaret River Fire Management Plan Reserve No 27633 (2010); and • Shire of Augusta Margaret River TE 10 Naming of Roads, Streets, Parks & Reserves.

1.5 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION The development of the EMP has involved a significant consultation effort including:

• ‘one-on-one’ conversations with key stakeholders and residents who were identified as having a specific interest in the area;

• input from a Shire reference group • input from discussions with locals and visitors encountered during site work; • submissions received by the Shire during the preparation of the plan; and • individual and group comments received during the consultation sessions held on-site

on Friday 5th April 2013 and Sunday 7th April 2013. The consultation sessions were promoted by a letter to all adjoining residents, a notice in the “Community Update” page of the Augusta-Margaret River Mail and a prominent media article in the Augusta Margaret River Mail on Wednesday 3rd April, 2013.

Residential neighbours of the foreshore were contacted for input in to the plan, along with representatives from the following organisations:

• Department of Environment and Conservation; • Department of Fire and Emergency Services; • Cape to Cape Catchments Group (CCG); • Friends of Barrett Street Reserve (FOBS); and • Wardan Cultural Centre.


2. CURRENT STATE AND RECOMMENDATIONS: BIOPHYSICAL FEATURES 2.1 SITE DESCRIPTION, VESTING AND PURPOSE The study site for the Riverslea Foreshore encompasses approximately 32ha of open parkland, jarrah-marri forest, riparian foreshore of the Margaret River and riparian foreshore of two tributaries of Darch Brook to the south and east of the Riverslea and Margaret Fields subdivisions. A network of cycle and pedestrian pathways run through the foreshore, however, within some portions of the foreshore (particularly the southern portions) these pathways are limited, informal, in need clear delineation or supplementation/extension. The ‘Riverslea Foreshore’ is formally recognised as a ‘C class reserve’ and includes a series of reserves (No 34019, 35489, 38650, 45095, 46589, 48430, 48892). It is currently vested to the Shire for the purposes of recreation and or drainage.

2.2 CLIMATE Located in Western Australia’s south-west, the area experiences a Mediterranean climate with a hot dry summer and cool wet winter. Witchcliffe (the nearest Bureau of Meteorology station) has a recent (1999 – 2010) average annual rainfall of 973 mm. Over 80% of the annual rainfall occurs between May and October. 2.3 TOPOGRAPHY The foreshore borders the Margaret River, Darch Brook and assorted tributaries with a range of aspects. Slopes are generally low to moderate ranging between approximately 3% to 12% through to 20%. 2.4 GEOLOGY The study area lies within the Whicher Valleys soil-landscape system (Tille and Lantzke, 1990). Within this, the site lies within the Wilyabrup Valleys land system which forms undulating to rolling low hills lying below the surrounding Cowaramup Uplands system (generally they are incised from an elevation of about 80-100m ASL down to between 20-40m ASL). The sideslopes of the valleys commonly have yellow-brown gravelly duplex and red-brown gravelly gradational soils. Patches of deep bleached sands, shallow gravels over ironstone and rocky soils occur on these slopes. Along some valley floors, particularly the Margaret River alluvial flat, well-drained red-brown and grey loams occur. 2.5 ECOLOGICAL CONNECTIVITY AND LINKAGE The site has significant ecological connectivity and linkage values including:

• forming part of the ‘Margaret River corridor’ (one of six key corridors within the Shire identified by a number of Shire planning documents including the Shire ‘State of the Environment Report 2010’); and


• being ranked by the South West Regional Ecological Linkage project as the highest proximity value of ‘1a’: this ranking indicates a site is a core linkage, with very well connected or linked vegetation.

2.6 SITE VEGETATION Vegetation is an essential factor in planning and managing bushland reserves due to its role in foreshore protection, providing habitat for fauna, determining fire risk management, enhancing the appeal of the area and creating a ‘sense of place’. 2.6.1 Vegetation Mapping Broadscale mapping of vegetation communities across the region identify the site as consisting of the following vegetation complexes:

• Wilyabrup (W1): Tall open forest of Karri, Marri, Sheoak, & Peppermint on deeply incised valleys in the hyperhumid zone (upper slope); and

• Wilyabrup(Ww1): Tall open forest of Karri, Peppermint and Wonnich with some Marri on flats and valleys in the hyperhumid zone (lower slope).

However, it is noted that this mapping does not reflect the actual site vegetation very accurately across the majority of the project area with Karri not forming a significant part of the naturally occurring vegetation. 2.6. 2 Plant Communities The foreshore contains a range of plant communities but the two dominant communities are described as:

1. Open Forest of Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and Marri (Corymbia calophylla) over Low Woodland of Agonis flexuosa over a Low Scrubland of Acacia myrtifolia, Hibbertia cuneiformis, Hovea elliptica, Leucopogon verticillatus, Macrozamia riedlei, Opercularia hispidula and Phyllanthus calycinus, Tall Grass of Microlaena stipoides and Tetrarrhena laevis, occasional Tall Sedges of Lepidosperma squamatum and Tetraria capillaris and Herbs of Adiantum aethiopicum.

2. Closed scrub of Swamp peppermint (Taxandria linearifolia), Astartea scoparia, over occasional blackberry (Rubus anglocandicans) and occasional Tall Sedges of Sword Sedge (Lepidosperma effusum), square sedge (Lepidosperma tetraquetrum), Pale Rush (Juncus pallidus) and Velvet rush (Meeboldina scariosa).

2.6.3 Vegetation Condition Vegetation condition within the foreshore is highly variable ranging from “Excellent” within some of the Jarrah – Marri bushland through to “Completely Degraded” within some of the open parkland areas (as per Keighery’s (1994) grading system, refer to Appendix 1). 2.6.4 Threatened Ecological Communities No threatened ecological communities are known from or likely to occur within the Reserve. 2.6.5 Declared Rare and Priority Flora Species of flora and fauna are defined as Declared Rare or Priority conservation status when their populations are restricted geographically or threatened by local processes.


Declared Rare Flora species are taxa which have been adequately searched for and are deemed in the wild to be either rare, in danger of extinction, or otherwise in need of special protection and have been gazetted as such. No Declared Rare Flora are known to occur within the Reserve. Two species of Priority Listed Flora, Gahnia sclerioides (P4) and Gastrolobium formosum (P3) are known from within the Riverslea Foreshore and the adjoining foreshore area. P3 Listed Flora species are considered as “Poorly known” meaning that:

taxa which are known from several populations, and the taxa are not believed to be under immediate threat (i.e. not currently endangered), either due to the number of known populations (generally >5), or known populations being large, and either widespread or protected. Such taxa are under consideration for declaration as ‘rare flora’, but are in need of further survey. (DCLM 2003)

P4 listed flora species are considered as “Rare, Near Threatened and other taxa in need of monitoring” meaning they are either:

1. Rare. Taxa that are considered to have been adequately surveyed, or for which sufficient knowledge is available, and that are considered not currently threatened or in need of special protection, but could be if present circumstances change. These taxa are usually represented on conservation lands.

2. Near Threatened. Taxa that are considered to have been adequately surveyed and that do not qualify for Conservation Dependent, but that are close to qualifying for Vulnerable.

or

3. Taxa that have been removed from the list of threatened species during the past five years for reasons other than taxonomy.

The P4 Gahnia sclerioides is a perennial, grass-like sedge found between Yelverton National Park, around Margaret River, between Walpole and Denmark and extending east to West Cape Howe. The P3 Gastrolobium formosum, from the poison pea family, is a shrub growing up to around 3m tall. It fringes rivers and streams and is found between Margaret River and Walpole – Nornalup National Park. Appendix 2 details a list of native flora species noted during the assessment. 2.7 WEED BURDEN The vegetation in the Reserve ranges from virtually weed-free through to patches of weed-dominated vegetation. Figure 2 identifies the location of key weed occurrences within the Reserve. Appendix 3 details a list of all introduced plant species noted on site. Two Declared weed species were found in the foreshore: blackberry (Rubus anglocandicans) and arum lily, although others maybe be evident seasonally.


The weed management issues within the site can be broken into three groupings due to the different management priorities and techniques required. The locations of these issues are shown on Figure 2. 2.7.1 Isolated very high priority environmental weeds. These areas refer to relatively isolated individuals or clusters of high priority environmental weeds threatening otherwise good or better condition vegetation. These areas represent a very high priority for control given their current containment and the minimal investment of resources required to manage them and the potential for these isolated locations to rapidly expand further significant degradation to the foreshore. Examples of these include areas with individuals or clusters of arum lily, Sydney golden wattle, butterfly bush, tambookie and bleeding heart. A detailed table of these issues and locations is provided as Appendix 4. Appendix 5 summarises suggested weed control methods for individual environmental weed species. 2.7.2 Blackberry Blackberry (Rubus anglocandicans) represents the only high priority environmental weed that dominates significant portions of the site. Blackberry also represents a P4 declared weed within the Shire of Augusta Margaret River. Management of P4 declared weeds requires “preventing infestation spreading beyond existing boundaries of infestation – the infested area must be managed in such a way that contains the declared plant by preventing the spread of seeds or plant parts within and from the property. Treatment must be done prior to seed set each year”. Scattered but manageable blackberry clusters exist through the southern tributary from John Archibald Drive through to Darch Brook and along the downstream portion of Darch Brook through to the confluence with the Margaret River. It is noted that control commenced on these areas during February 2013 using Metsulfuron Methyl. These areas will require a persistent and on going control program and follow up revegetation/ regeneration work over several years in order to prevent further spread and replacement with native vegetation. It is recommended that following two years of initial control that very targeted follow up spraying using Grazon be considered. The strategic use of small scale autumn burns of some patches of previously controlled stands (where safe to do so) should be considered as an opportunity for clean up of dead canes, improved contractor access and a trigger for natural regeneration. Blackberry control throughout the foreshore is considered a high priority. 2.7.3 Disturbed or degraded areas of lower priority weeds These areas are generally associated with high access, edge effects or old revegetation sites where low priority opportunistic weeds are invading. A range of lower priority weeds including annual grasses, kikuyu, water couch, flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata) and plantain (Plantago lanceolata) dominate a number of disturbed areas along the edge of trails or at key access points to the foreshore. These areas are considered a moderate priority for control relative to the other groups identified above. These areas require gradual ongoing selective control in line with the Bradley method of environmental weed control encouraging gradual natural regeneration and dominance of natives within these areas. In some cases small scale


target supplementary planting is required as well. Following attention to the high priority management issues identified above, these lower priority species maybe re-prioritised in the future. Table 1. Degraded areas requiring bush regeneration management Area

# Location Issue Action

1 Between Rendall Close weir and Barrett St Reserve

Degraded area particularly on the housing side of the walkway. Potential fire risk concerns with vegetation upto the dwellings.

Delineate landscaped from bushland areas using the existing pathway as a barrier - address weed incursions into the understorey with judicious weed control and careful targeted revegetation. Maintain (narrow) canoe / swimmer access.

2 Rendall Close weir:

Degraded unmaintained, high use area.

Undertake grassy weed control and follow up landscaping.

3 Waters Edge Stormwater Basin

Weeds escaping from this area represent a significant risk to the adjoining bushland.

Clean up, control and contain weeds – consider installation of GPT for litter, conversion to rain garden.

4 Waters Edge access entrance

Cluster of priority perennial grassy weeds.

Control and replace with natives.

5 Darch Brook upstream from confluence with the Margaret River

Degraded bed of the waterway.

Ongoing bush regeneration to promote replacement with natives.

6 Riverslea Drive North Stormwater Basin

Degraded, weedy ‘eyesore’ containing lots of litter and rubbish.

Clean up, control and contain weeds – consider conversion to rain garden.

7 Riverslea Drive Eastern Verge

Degraded area with perennial grasess (predominantly Kykuyu) threatening to invade bushland and foreshore.

Undertake gradual control with grass selective herbicides, replace with natives.

8 Riverslea Drive North Stormwater Basin

Degraded, weedy ‘eyesore’ containing lots of litter and rubbish.

Clean up, control and contain weeds – consider conversion to rain garden.

9 Halcyon Loop Tributary to Darch Brook

Establishment of predominantly grassy weeds within the landscaped waterway foreshore.

Targeted selective weed control required – re-establish weed barrier installed upon initial planting. Minor planting to address erosion

10 Confluence of Patchy success of previous Undertake on-going bush


Southern tributary and Darch Brook

revegetation efforts. regeneration to support natural regeneration.

11 Southern tributary of Darch Brook

Patchy establishment of good vegetation following initial developer revegetation.

Encourage natural regeneration and supplementary planting into degraded patches with on going targeted bush regeneration weed control.

12 Oak Glen tributary of Darch Brook

Lack of delineation between bushland and open space managed areas. Establishment of predominantly grassy weeds within the understorey.

Create weed barrier on southern side between mown and bushland areas. Delineate between mown and bushland areas on Northern side and create weed barrier. Undertake gradual ongoing selective control and low level infill planting to supplement the existing native species.

These areas are identified on Figure 2. 2.7.2 Pre and Post Fire Weed Control It is identified that two relatively small areas of the foreshore between the Margaret River and the residential properties north of The Boulevard are earmarked for prescribed burning in the near future and potentially into the future as a means of ongoing fuel reduction. Currently the bushland in these areas is largely weed free and it is anticipated that this would largely remain the case following fire. However, a number of disturbance weeds are likely to appear (particularly around road edges and close to private property) following any fire break clearing and the burning itself. Addressing these before they expand Carefully monitoring of the burnt areas in the immediate weeks and months following burning will ensure that any emerging weed outbreaks can be very quickly and efficiently addressed prior to establishment (which would require major investment and resources). Allowance for this weed control should be budgeted for prior to undertaking the fire planning. 2.8 REVEGETATION The vast majority of the foreshore is dominated by good to very good condition vegetation meaning that revegetation is not required and that natural regeneration can be promoted and act as the primary means of ‘capturing’ areas following weed control. However, there are a few areas where very limited judicious planting would significantly contribute to either the environmental or amenity values of the foreshore. These areas include:

• Rendell Close foreshore: This area requires some minor amenity and shade plantings/ landscaping


• Downstream of the Rendall Close weir: Small portions of this area warrant some minor plantings to line the foreshore whilst still facilitating pedestrian and canoe/ swimmer access.

• Halcyon Cr tributary: this area involves minor stream bank planting and revegetation within a small area that is slowly becoming eroded and degraded.

• Southern tributary of Darch Brook: infill planting among the previously revegetated areas.

Appendix 6 provides recommendations regarding the areas, nature and species for these suggested plantings. Where planting is to be undertaken it should utilise local provenance stock of species naturally occurring in the area. 2.9 NATIVE FAUNA It was beyond the scope of this project to conduct a detailed assessment of the fauna inhabiting the site. However, a detailed study by Elscott (2009) ‘Vertebrate fauna of Lot 320 Higgins Road, Margaret River, and Shire of Augusta-Margaret River Reserves R27633 and R39081’ was recently undertaken in the adjoining Barrett St Reserve. This study identified:

• a total of 164 species of vertebrate fauna that may occur in the vicinity of R27633; and

• 19 vertebrate fauna species of conservation significance (that) may occur within the vicinity of R27633 (these are detailed within Appendix 5).

Elscott (2009) also confirmed the presence of the threatened western ringtail possum (WRP) (Pseudocheirus occidentalis) and the priority fauna species the Quenda or southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus) on site. It is highly likely that these threatened and priority listed species are also present within the “Riverslea Foreshore”. Furthermore, sightings of the priority species Water Rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) have been reported within the reserve. While the density of WRP present in the foreshore is probably low, their presence is significant given the recognition of this species under the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act and the Western Australian Wildlife Conservation Act as Vulnerable (to extinction). This provides good justification for protecting and where possible, enhancing the habitat and corridor values of the foreshore for this and other species. Twelve bird searches were undertaken by Christine Wilder in 2003 and 2004 on Lot 9516 adjoining the Darch Brook foreshore. The area was revisited in April 2013 and across the 13 visits a total of 42 species were noted. It is noted that the transformation and development of the Riverslea area since 2003 may have resulted in changes to the bird species utilising the area. Additionally, the State listed (Vulnerable) fish species Mud Minnow (Galaxiella munda) and the Priority 1 listed Pouched Lamprey (Geotria australis) has previously been recorded from within the Darch Brook portion of the foreshore.


Continuing to address the weed burden of the site coupled with targeted fauna survey/ monitoring, feral animal monitoring (and, where necessary, control) will help to protect and enhance the habitat values of the site. 2.10 INTRODUCED FAUNA Evidence of feral animals (both foxes and cats) was observed during the site assessment however they were not raised as a significant or common concern during the consultation. Both fox and cat predation are identified as key threatening processes impacting WRP (Dept of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2010) and as such control is recommended where issues are identified. Baiting is not considered appropriate for use in the foreshore given the proximity to adjoining residential areas and the high level of use of the foreshore by young children and domestic animals. As such, trapping by appropriately trained professionals represents the preferred option for control within the foreshore. Foreshore users and neighbours are encouraged to report sightings of feral animals to the Shire in order to gauge the need for trapping.

While occasionally sighted in the area, rabbits were not identified as a significant issue in the foreshore and are considered unlikely to in the near future. Nevertheless, monitoring of rabbit numbers and impacts is recommended. A broad range of rabbit control methods exist (Department of Agriculture 2005); should rabbits become a significant issue in the future then control should be considered in the context of the situation at the time. Plant protection will need to be considered during revegetation to combat grazing and browsing by rabbits. It is noted that three significant introduced aquatic fauna species have been recorded from within the reserve: eastern gambusia (Gambusia holbrooki), yabby (Cherax destructor) and goldfish (Carassius auratus). At this stage it is unclear as to whether previous control within the Darch brook has removed this species and whether they have spread downstream to the this portion of the Margaret River. Monitoring is required to understand the current extent and nature of the yabby and goldfish populations within the Reserve. 2.11 PHYTOPHTHORA DIEBACK It was beyond the scope and budget of this plan to undertake a detailed phytophthora dieback assessment, however, this was considered during the foreshore assessment. It is noted that as a water borne plant disease, water courses and adjoining areas are generally considered as highly likely to contain Phytophthora cinnamomi (Phytophthora dieback). During the assessment no areas were identified as highly likely to be dieback free. However the area between the Rendall Close weir and the Bankside Retreat river access point is identified as very good condition vegetation that represents a high priority for follow up detailed dieback assessment including targeted root and soil sampling and testing. 2.12 FIRE MANAGEMENT It is noted that a Fire Management Plan does not currently exist for the foreshore. However it is currently understood that a complete ‘Townsite Fire Risk Assessment’ is planned for the near future and that this process will assess the foreshore and develop detailed recommendations which, upon completion, will need to be integrated into this plan. In the interim period it is noted that the Shire’s current fire management activities are primarily focused upon two areas of the foreshore:

1. Riverslea Drive verge management: These actions primarily relate to re-establishing and maintaining a 20m separation or buffer zone between the native vegetation to the


east and north and the dwellings to the west and south respectively. In order to achieve this the Shire is undertaking annual slashing to prevent native vegetation encroachment onto the verge.

2. Watersedge/ The Boulevard firebreak establishment and prescribed burning: The Shire has recently re-established firebreaks around the houses along Watersedge and the Boulevard which back directly onto the reserve. The intention is to use these firebreaks and associated access to facilitate prescribed fuel reduction burns in the adjoining reserve areas.

It is noted that the slashing and regular burning regime has the potential to significantly increase the weed load in the foreshore. Recommendations relating to the fire management related weed control has been provided in section 2.7.3 to ensure that these fire risk reduction activities do not compromise the ecology of the reserve. 2.13 EROSION Whilst the foreshore does not contain areas of significant erosion, there are a number of areas with minor erosion which if left unaddressed are likely to become larger issues requiring more intensive stabilisation works. Table 1 details the areas where minor erosion has been observed and the suggested actions. Table 2. Minor erosion sites and suggested actions (as detailed on Figure 3) Area # Location Issue Action 1 Stormwater outlet

~50m west of Rendall Cl weir

Minor erosion across path. Stabilise bank, address safety hazard and prevent expansion.

2 Waters Edge Stormwater Basin

Minor erosion emerging on spillway.

Harden before it becomes major.

3 ‘Rope Swing’ foreshore area

Bank erosion from increased river access.

Install hardening and step installation.

4 Bankside Retreat river access

Minor erosion down gravel slope.

Install water bar to break up runoff.

5 Halcyon Loop Tributary to Darch Brook

Eroded and incised near Darch Brook confluence.

Revegetate, monitor and consider riffle installation

6 Stormwater outlet below Oak Glen

Minor gully erosion. Address safety hazard and prevent expansion consider riffle creation using coir logs.


3. CURRENT STATE AND RECOMMENDATIONS: HUMAN USE ATTRIBUTES 3.1 INDIGENOUS HERITAGE The Cape to Cape region has been used extensively by the Wardandi people, with their occupation of the region dating back at least 47,000 years. Protection and enhancement of indigenous values associated with Shire reserves, local bushland and riparian areas is considered fundamental. As part of the preparation of this plan, a search of the Department of Indigenous Affairs Aboriginal Heritage Inquiry System was conducted on Friday 21 March 2013. This search highlighted many registered Aboriginal Heritage Sites in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and one registered aboriginal site located along the full length of the Margaret River, Darch Brook and the tributary running through to the Rapids Landing subdivision. This site is identified as Site 4495 – Margaret River. It is noted, however, that many significant sites are not yet formally registered and found on the system. It was beyond the scope of this report to undertake a detailed survey. Consultation with a representative from the Wardan Centre was undertaken during May. General support for the objectives of the plan was expressed during this consultation. However, formal consultation and approvals would be required where any works involve earthworks or disturbance of the registered site. One aspect that was highlighted during the consultation was the potential that exists within the foreshore to raise awareness of the indigenous values of the river and bushland area (strictly with permission of local elders) through a series of interpretive signage strategically placed within the foreshore and surrounding trail links. 3.2 RECREATIONAL USE The foreshore is currently vested to be managed for the primary purpose of recreation, with the area readily and frequently accessed by local residents and visitors. The study area is utilised for:

• Walking; • Kayaking/ Canoeing • Jogging; • Dog exercise (on-leash area only);

• Swimming, snorkelling and other water pursuits;

• Cycling; • Marroning.

These uses are well suited to the area. Although summertime is the peak period for recreational use, locals and smaller numbers of visitors recreate in the area year-round. 3.3 FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

3.3.1 Pedestrian Access


Pedestrian access is facilitated by a network of paths traversing the foreshore. These trails are very popular with locals for exercising and socialising and with visitors wanting to experience local bushland.

These trails provide: 1. a key link between the Riverslea and Margaret Fields subdivisions and Bramley

National Park and the Old Settlement; and 2. a significant access point to the river and swimming holes for local residents; and

It is considered that the current trails work well and facilitate access to and through the foreshore, however, it was identified through the site assessment and the community consultation that the trails required some form of management to ensure that they did not become too overgrown or narrow. In addition, two issues relating to the connectivity to the broader townscape have arisen out of the site assessment:

• the extension of formal trails South through the Darch Brook foreshore; and • addressing linkages through to Barrett St Reserve along the southern foreshore of the

Margaret River. 3.3.2 Darch Brook Foreshore Trails Access

Limited formal walk ways currently exist along the Darch Brook foreshore south of the confluence with the Margaret River. The Margaret River and Augusta Townsites Pathway Plan of 2004 proposes the creation of key regional pathways along the western side of Darch Brook and linking through into Rapids Landing. Whilst the 2004 Pathway Plan is many years old the concept of extending the network of pathways through the Darch Brook foreshore is well grounded and would provide a significant community asset. The possibility exists to link this trail through to the future extensions of the Rapids Landing pathways and potentially extend this through to link up with the Rails to Trails thus creating a loop walk around the entire townsite. Figure 3 identifies an approximate alignment of this proposed extensions of the pathway. This alignment keeps the path within a bushland setting without walking on the road verge and follows just below the stormwater detention basins. Some minor stretches of simple boardwalk might be required where the trail skirts lower stretches around the stormwater detention basins. It is noted that the 2004 Pathway Plan also proposes:

• an additional pedestrian crossing of the Margaret River upstream of the confluence with Darch Brook (it is currently understood that this will crossing will now occur east(upstream) of the Riversleas Foreshore as part of the town bypass road);

• a pedestrian crossing of Darch Brook near the confluence with the Margaret River; and • formalisation of the trail along the eastern edge of Darch Brook.

These recommendations are strongly supported and would represent important recreational assets for both Riverslea and surrounding residents and the proposed future subdivision east of Darch Brook. Given the significant cost involved in this infrastructure it is proposed that the Shire seek external funding (eg Royalties for Regions) to enable the detailed design and construction of these structures and linking paths. 3.3.3 Southern foreshore link to Barrett St Reserve


It has previously been identified that it would contribute significantly to the network of trails in the foreshore and surrounding areas if the trails from the Barrett St weir linked through to the Rendall Close weir along the southern side of the river. The community consultation noted that some residents directly fronting the foreshore through this stretch felt that this proposal would impact significantly on the level of privacy currently enjoyed; other residents felt that the creation of this linking pathway would increase the amenity of the area and the potential recreational opportunities. It is noted that some significant obstacles exist for the creation of this walkway including:

• the Riverview Tourist Park owning the entire area down to river on their foreshore creating a significant interruption to the Shire foreshore reserve that exists either side;

• west of the ‘Riverzedge’ property (immediately west of the caravan park), the strata managed ‘Arcadia’ property also owns a small ‘wedge’ of land down to the waters edge; and

• currently the eastern portion of Barrett St Reserve east of the ‘weir road’ has no formal trails created.

In order to address the issue it is recommended that the Shire:

1. Act to acquire a foreshore reserve in front of the Riverview caravan park and Arcadia freehold properties as part of any future planning applications relating to these blocks;

2. Investigate creating a walkway link around the intersecting private properties (utilising boardwalk, decking or bridge structures). This investigation should include costing; legalities, health and safety considerations, private foreshore access and targeted consultation of property owners directly affected by any changes through this area.

Table 3. Proposed additional walkpaths to provided linkages through and beyond the reserve (as detailed on Figure 3)

Area Location Issue Recomended Action 1 Riverview Tourist

Park Riverview tourist park private property runs to the water.

Investigate ways of traversing this barrier and creating a key linkage to the trails within Barrett St Reserve

2 North eastern portion of Darch Brook

Informal current trail Extend and formalise existing trail to the Margaret River foreshore.

3 Continuation of existing pathway south along the Riverslea Drive foreshore

‘Bush trail’ ends at the Riverslea Drive Stormwater Basin.

Continue ‘bush trail’ south along the foreshore.

4 Linkage across Darch Brook and continuing east along the Margaret River foreshore

A bridge across the Darch Brook/ Margaret River confluence and continueing eastward along the Margaret River foreshore has previously been identified as a possibility and would prove a significant community asset particularly when

Continue to pursue funding to implement this trail extension. Incorporate additional crossing of the Margaret River to create walking circuits with the Bramley National Park.


development occurs east of Darch Brook.

5 Halcyon Loop Tributary to Tingle Ave linkage

The current trail through this stretch is based on private property.

Formalise the trail through the foreshore reserve.

6 Eastern Darch Brook Connection through to John Archibald Drive

Current trail is very informal, and poorly defined and narrow.

Establish/ formalise existing bushtrack through the foreshore reserve to facilitate loop walk to the John Archibald crossing of Darch Brook.

7 Tingle Ave connection to John Archibald Drive

Formal trails fail to connect through to John Archibald Drive and the future trails through Rapids Landing.

Provide linkage trails on both sides of the tributary to make this critical connection.

3.3.4 Vehicle Access and Parking Public vehicle access through the foreshore is not considered appropriate, nor is it catered for within the foreshore. Residents identified a number of concerns with trail bike access within the foreshore and across the Rendall Close bridge. The installation of bollards are proposed in order to address the trail bike access across the bridge. The following table details current parking arrangements and recommendations:

Location Current situation Recommendations End of Rendall Close Limited informal

parking. Consider formalising existing areas without major expansion

Intersection of Bankside Retreat and Riverslea Drive

Informal verge and gravel path with limited parking opportunities

Current considered adequate – consider formalising and expanding in the medium to long term

Intersection of Riverslea Drive and Lantana Lane

Limited bitumen parking

Considered adequate – maintain.

3.3.5 Facilities and Infrastructure

Generally the foreshore contains few facilities and limited hard infrastructure, which is consistent with the primary uses of the foreshore and is complimented by facilities in nearby areas such as Rotary Park (toilets, BBQs and playgrounds). However, some minor improvements and changes in this level of provision are recommended as follows: Rendall Close Weir The weir and surrounding upstream foreshore areas are very popular during summer as an area where people can swim and enjoy the river close to town. This use is not currently catered to, with no seating, tables, toilets, rubbish bin etc. Signage at the bridge crossing is in part old, faded and no longer relevant – this should be reviewed and updated.


It is noted that this area has the potential to be a beautiful recreational focus for the town catering to and inviting people to this spot to enjoy the bushland setting and Margaret River at this location. It is also noted that during the consultation that local residents felt that this area did not have adequate parking or space to become a major recreational node. It is noted that a good deal of the open space making up this area is actually managed by Water Corporation and not the Shire. Consultation with the Water Corporation will be required to ensure that landscaping can also incorporate portions of their land. The Shire has previously had a plan prepared by landscape plan prepared by Ecoscape. The recommendations within this report are largely consistent with the Ecoscape plan. It is strongly recommended that a minor ‘makeover’ of this area be undertaken including consideration of:

• Upgrading/ updating of signage to include ecological and cultural interpretive signage;

• Provision of a picnic table, seating and rubbish bin (it is noted that if usage continues to increase that the issue of public toilets may need to be considered in the medium to longer term);

• Steps or similar structure to encourage and facilitate safe access to the river and stablise the river bank;

• Minor weed control, landscape and shade tree planting; • Establishment and ongoing maintenance of an improved lawn area; and • Risks and hazards assessment associated with high flows and the weir structure.

The river pool upstream of Rendall Close weir is not currently one of the water sampling points for the State Recreational Water Quality Monitoring Programme undertaken by the Shire. Given the high level of usage of this area it is strongly recommended that this site be added to those currently being routinely sampled and tested. Management and advisory notices should reflect the results of this testing so that the community is kept informed about water quality.

3.3.6 Rubbish, Litter and Greenwaste

Whilst the majority of foreshore is relatively free from rubbish and litter, some relatively confined areas were identified as requiring some improved litter management. These key areas include:

1. the Rendall Close Weir; 2. the southern tributary to Darch Brook; and 3. the stormwater basins.

With regard to the Rendall close weir area, a rubbish bin is recommended for this location as it is now experiencing high use particularly during the summer months; rubbish accumulation around the site was consistently identified as a concern for local residents. Regular clean ups of this area are also highly recommended.

With regard to the southern tributary of Darch Brook and the stormwater basins, regular (annual or more frequent) clean ups of litter and rubbish are recommended (also see 3.4 below.)


The vast majority of the foreshore is free from obvious dumping of green waste, however, this was noted as an issue at the following locations:

• around the southern tributary of Darch Brook; and • portions of the foreshore between the Caravan Park and the Rendall Close weir.

This has the potential to further degrade the foreshore, introduce new weed species into the area and impact on the visual amenity of the area. The message needs to be reinforced to the community that the dumping of green waste in bushland and foreshore reserves is inappropriate due to the potential introduction of nutrients and weeds, and is illegal. In order to avoid the need for additional negative regulatory signage in the foreshore it is recommended that the Shire advise households adjacent and surrounding the foreshore (by letter), of the issues associated with green waste dumping in bushland. Regular media articles would help reinforce this message. 3.3.7 Dogs and Dog Waste The only area within the Riverslea Foreshore that is currently designated as a dog-exercise (off leash) area is portions of Reserve 35489 bounded by Hillier Dve and Tingle Ave, however, dogs are permitted in the foreshore on a leash and many parts of the foreshore are popular with people walking their dogs. A number of people mentioned during the consultation that dogs off-leash were a common occurrence, particularly around the weir and swimming area. Some signage currently exists informing people that dogs are not permitted off-leash, but it is old, faded and needs updating. Additional signage to this effect is required at key entrance points to the foreshore. Dog waste bags were not noted at any point within or immediately adjoining the foreshore and given the level of dog usage within the foreshore, the provision of bags at key entrance points is recommended. 3.3.8 Signage

The foreshore contains a range of existing signage covering regulatory, directional and interpretative information. The majority of the existing signage is concentrated around the Margaret River foreshore portions of the site. The majority of the existing signage is old, outdated or with respect to the interpretative signage in need of some improved content. Strong support from the community for improved directional and interpretative signage was highlighted during the consultation period. Given this background, it is recommended that the following signage be developed for the foreshore:

• A series of directional maps located at key access points (identified on Figure 3) clearly identifying the different trail and pathway networks through both the Riverslea foreshore and also the surrounding areas. These maps should clearly show the reader where they are, key features of the foreshore and adjoining areas (eg the river, Barrett St Reserve, Bramley National Park and adjoining streets) and the network of trails through the foreshore;

• Directional arrows or symbols linked in with the directional maps; • A series of interpretative signs along the trails. Possible topics include river ecology,

flora and fauna of the reserve, indigenous values (with permission and input from local elders).


A number of grants and funding opportunities are generally available to support signage projects such as these including the DEC Community Environment Grants. 3.4 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

The foreshore currently receives stormwater runoff from a significant portion of Margaret River residential areas including the entire Riverslea and Margaret Fields subdivisions. Currently this stormwater entering the site is managed through a number of stormwater detention basins. In general, the current structures appear to be functioning reasonably well within the inherent limitations of their design. They are actively capturing large gross pollutants, litter and weed seed. It is evident that during the early stages of the subdivision (when considerable building was taking place) that these structures also precented large amounts of sediment from reaching the river. The spillways generally appear in reasonable condition however some minor erosion has started to occur on the basin adjoining Waters Edge. The current features require:

• Urgent and annual ongoing removal of litter and rubbish accumulation within the structures;

• Ongoing control of environmental weeds within the structures in order to ensure that they don’t become a source of weeds for the broader very good condition reserve; and

• Regular monitoring to ensure proper functioning. The Shire has recently installed small scale bioretention basins/ rain gardens in similar situations throughout the Shire and it is believed that these structures would help provide a higher level of treatment of stormwater and a more aesthetic structure. The installation of these or similar structures should be considered within this key foreshore.


4.0 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS 4.1 INTRODUCTION The following management actions have been developed based on the stated objectives, site assessment, literature reviews and stakeholder consultation. The actions have been grouped according to the key values of the foreshore: recreational, social and conservation protection. They have been identified as high, medium or low priority and many of the recommendations meet more than one of the three stated objectives. Guiding principles provide the overarching framework and rationale behind the selection and prioritisation of the specific management actions. 4.2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

4.2.1 Recreation • Recognise ‘recreation’ as a designated purpose and a priority value of the foreshore. • Residential development and intensification of residential areas around the foreshore

means the usage of the foreshore will significantly increase over time and management must address the associated pressures such as weed invasion, erosion etc.

• Public vehicle access (outside of designated carparks and road verges) is not considered appropriate in the foreshore.

• Interpretive and directional signage and maps should be utilised at strategic points to direct movement through the foreshore and to enhance the recreational experience. They should enhance the landscape rather than detract from it.

• Safe access should be facilitated and encouraged through the network of trails. • Swimming and access to the Margaret River portion of the foreshore should be

supported and facilitated in a safe and manageable way subject to on-going water quality testing.

• Scope exists for the trails through the foreshore to form part of a much larger network of trails to comprehensively link Barrett Street Reserve, Rotary Park, the Old Settlement, Bramley National Park and through to the Rails to Trails via the existing and future Rapids Landing subdivisions.

4.2.2 Social/ Community

• Recognise the importance of local ownership of the area, and the associated sense of place and pride, which contribute to a stronger sense of community and a sense of responsibility for the area.

• Recognise the concern for, and interest in, the area expressed by local residents and provide ongoing opportunities for involvement in management of the foreshore.

• Recognise the long-term significance of the area and particularly the Margaret River to the Wardandi people.

• Recognise the opportunity and value for people to recreate in and experience the natural environment.

• Recognise the constraints on financial and other resources available to the Shire of Augusta Margaret River to manage the foreshore, and encourage collaborative actions, sourcing of external funding and community involvement.


4.2.3 Conservation Weed Management • Weed management should, in general, start in areas of good condition and work

outwards towards heavily infested/ degraded areas. • Site and soil disturbance should be minimised as it promotes further weed growth. • The rate of native plant regeneration should generally determine the rate of weed

removal. • Weed management should focus primarily on priority weeds not yet extensively

established within the site and with the greatest potential to degrade the foreshore. • Recognise that preventing weeds entering the foreshore is one of the most effective and

efficient methods of weed control.

Revegetation • Assisted, natural regeneration is favoured over revegetation and the majority of the

foreshore is considered in good enough condition and surrounded by significant areas of healthy bushland to ensure that assisted, natural regeneration will be sufficient in most areas of the site with minimal planting required.

• Any supplementary planting should only utilise locally native species and stock of local provenance. Species appropriate for revegetating the relevant zones are identified in Appendix 6.

• Planting should be scheduled to coincide with winter rainfall (ie May –July) in order to increase survival rates and minimise on-going maintenance.

• Planting activities should be coordinated and guided by someone with appropriate bush regeneration skills in order to select appropriate placement and density for each species at each site.

Fauna • The foreshore has the potential to contribute significant habitat and wildlife corridor

values for a range of fauna species including the threatened Western Ringtail Possum and the priority listed Quenda.

• Recognise the potential of feral fauna, particularly foxes, cats and rabbits, to impact on the conservation and recreation values of the foreshore.

Fire Management • Detailed fire risk assessment and the development of management recommendations are

pending and these recommendations will contribute to the management of the area upon completion.

• This environmental management plan details current interim fire risk management measures and provides recommendations to ensure these measures do not unnecessarily impact on the ecology of the foreshore.

• The preparedness, awareness and actions of the adjoining landholders plays a key role in the response to fire risks within the foreshore.


4.3 RECOMMENDED ACTIONS # MANAGEMENT ACTIONS Priority

1 Who2 When3 Cost

estimate4

GE

NE

RA

L

G1

Change the purpose of Reserves making up the Riverslea Foreshore from “Recreation” to "Conservation and recreation" or “Conservation, foreshore protection and recreation” to more accurately reflect the conservation values of the reserve and the management objectives for the area. Vesting of Reserves 48892, 38650, 45095, 38650, 34019 should be changed from C Class to A Class.

H S M -

CO

NSE

RV

AT

ION

C1 Undertake control of the isolated priority environmental weed hotspots detailed in Appendix 4 and identified in Figure 2.

H S/FG/CCG

S $600

C2 Strategically undertake control of blackberry patches through the Darch Brook and the southern tributary to Darch Brook identified in Figure 2.

H S/FG/CCG

M/L $5,000

C3 Implement the targeted bush regeneration actions identified in Table 1. M S/CCG M/L $4000 C4 Implement strategic pre and post fire weed control. H S S $750 C5 Encourage residents/reserve users to report fox and feral cat issues and implement a management program as

necessary. M FG/S OG -

C6 Establish and maintain the fire access tracks as weed barriers. H S OG -

C7 Implement the erosion control actions detailed in Table 2:

M S S $3000

C8 Send letter regarding the issue of green waste dumping to residents adjoining green waste dumping hotspots. H S S -

C9 Implement the low level revegetation planting identified in Appendix 6.

M S/CCG M $2500

C10 Investigate the implementation of small-scale stormwater treatment structures such as rain gardens to address smaller stormwater inflows to the Foreshore.

M S S -

C11 Investigation into the potential presence of introduced Goldfish and Yabby within the Foreshore.

H CCG S/M $4000


# MANAGEMENT ACTIONS Priority1

Who2 When3 Cost estimate4

RE

CR

EA

TIO

N

R1 Actively investigate and pursue the development of improved walk linkages to and through the Reserve including:

• Linkage west along the southern foreshore of the river to link up with Barrett St Reserve; and • Extension of the Darch Brook Trail south through to Rapids Landing; and • Creation of pedestrian bridges and formal trail east of Riverslea Drive.

H H H

S (FG) M/L -

R2 Improved accessibility of existing trail network by: • Installation of walkway network maps at key entrances; and • Extension of trail markers.

H S S $1500

R3 Install ‘No through road’ sign on Rendall Close L S M $100 R4 Undertake minor pruning and maintenance of existing trails. M S OG - R5 Install bollards or similar on the entrance to the Rendall Close bridge to deter trail bike access H S S $500 R6 Investigate minor landscaping works of the weir foreshore area including minor shade plantings, increased

grass areas and minor native amenity planting to facilitate community use of this underutilised and currently poorly managed area.

H S S

R7 Monitor litter issues especially around the weir area. Conduct regular clean ups. L S (FG) OG - R8 Install rubbish bin near the weir. H S S $400 R9 Install dog waste bag dispensers at key entrance points to the Reserve. L S S $100

SOC

IAL

S1 Support and encourage the establishment of a ‘Friends of Riverslea Foreshore’ group to help implement elements of this plan and undertake general monitoring in the reserve.

H S OG -

S2 Design and install signs at the key entrances to the Reserve, as outlined in Section 3.3.6. H S (FG) S $1000 S3 Develop a series of interpretive signs to be placed through the Reserve promoting awareness of the Reserve’s

and region’s flora, fauna and ecology. M S(FG) M $1500

S4 Implement the recommendations of the forthcoming Bush Fire Risk Assessment for the Margaret River townsite including the reserve.

H S OG Significant

Notes: 1. Priorities: L = low, M= medium, H = high 2. Organisation Responsible : S= Shire, FG= Friends of Riverslea Reserve, CCG=Cape To Cape Catchments Group 3. When: S= Short term (Less than 2 years) M=Medium term (2-4years) L=Long term (>4 years) OG= On going (generally with respect to

monitoring and maintenance) 4. Cost Estimate


REFERENCES Brown, K. and Brooks, K. (2002). Bushland Weeds: A practical guide to their management. Environmental Weeds Action Network (Inc.), Greenwood. Department of Agriculture (2003) Land Profiler, Shires of Capel, Busselton and Augusta- Margaret River, Perth, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia (2009). List of plants declared under the Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976. http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/objtwr/imported_assets/content/pw/weed/decp/dec_plants_list.pdf. Accessed online, May 2010. Department of Conservation and Land Management (2003) Declared Rare and Priority Flora List. Publicly available list prepared by the then Department of Conservation of Land Management, Western Australia. Ecoscape (2010) Margaret River Foreshore Precincts: Rendall Close landscape concept plans prepared for the Shire. Elscott, S (2009) ‘Vertebrate fauna of Lot 320 Higgins Road, Margaret River, and Shire of Augusta-Margaret River Reserves R27633 and R39081’. Green Iguana, WA. Keighery, BJ. (1994). Bushland Plant Survey: A guide to plant community survey for the community. Wildflower Society of Western Australia (Inc.), Nedlands. Mattiske, E. M and Havel J.J. (1998) Vegetation Complexes of the South-West Forest Region of Western Australia. Maps and report prepared as part of the Regional Forest Agreement, Western Australia for the Department of Conservation and Land Management and Environment Australia. Molloy, S., O'Connor, T., Wood, J. and Wallrodt, S. (2009). South West Regional Ecological Linkages Technical Report. Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). West Perth. Moore, J and Wheeler, J (2008). Southern Weeds and their control. Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia Tille, P.J. and Lantzke, N.J. (1990). Busselton-Margaret River-Augusta land capability study. Western Australian Department of Agriculture, Land Resources Series No. 5.


APPENDIX 1: VEGETATION CONDITION SCALE

CONDITION DESCRIPTION Pristine Pristine or nearly so, no obvious signs of disturbance Excellent Vegetation structure intact, disturbance affecting individual species

and weeds are non aggressive Very Good Vegetation structure altered, obvious signs of disturbance. For

example, disturbance to vegetation structure caused by repeated fires, the presence of some more aggressive weeds, dieback, logging and grazing.

Good Vegetation structure significantly altered by very obvious signs of multiple disturbance. Retains basic vegetation structure or ability to regenerate. For example, disturbance to vegetation structure caused by very frequent fires, the presence of some very aggressive weeds at high density, partial clearing, dieback and grazing.

Degraded Basic vegetation structure severely impacted by disturbance. Scope for regeneration but not to a state approaching good condition without intensive management. For example, disturbance to vegetation structure caused by very frequent fires, the presence of very aggressive weeds, partial clearing, dieback and grazing.

Completely Degraded

The structure of the vegetation is no longer intact and the area is completely or almost completely without native species. These areas re often described as ‘parkland cleared’ with the flora composing weed or crop species with isolated native trees or shrubs.

Source: Keighery (1994)


APPENDIX 2: NATIVE FLORA SPECIES LIST

Note, this list is not intended to be comprehensive but rather indicative and useful for planning and implementing revegetation and weed control efforts.

Family Species Common Name Adiantum Adiantum aethiopicum Common maidenhair Amaranthaceae Alternanthera nodiflora Common joyweed Apiaceae Pentapeltis peltigera Anthericaceae Johnsonia lupelina Blue grass lilly Cyperaceae Baumea juncea Cyperaceae Baumea vaginalis Sheath twig rush Cyperaceae Gahnia scleroides (P3) Cyperaceae Gahnia decomposita Cyperaceae Lepidosperma effusum Sword sedge Cyperaceae Lepidosperma squamatum. Cyperaceae Lepidosperma tetraquetrum Square sedge Cyperaceae Tetraria capillaris Hair sedge Cyperaceae Tetraria octandra Dasypogonaceae Lomandra pauciflora Dasypogonaceae Lomandra purpurea Purple mat rush Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken fern Dilleniaceae Hibbertia cuneiformis Cutleaf hibbertia Dilleniaceae Hibbertia hypericoides Epacridaceae Astroloma ciliatum Candle cranberry Epacridaceae Leucopogon conostephioides Epacridaceae Leucopogon spp. Epacridaceae Leucopogon verticillatus Tasslebush Euphorbiaceae Phyllanthus calycinus False boronia Fabaceae Bossiaea linophylla Fabaceae Bossiaea ornata Fabaceae Callistachys lanceolata Wonnich/ native willow Fabaceae Hardenbergia comptoniana Native wisteria Fabaceae Hovea elliptica Tree hovea Fabaceae Gastrolobium formosum (P3) Fabaceae Mirbelia dilatata Mirbelia Fabaceae Viminaria juncea Swishbush Goodeniaceae Scaevola calliptera Goodeniaceae Scaevola microphylla Small-leaved scaevola Goodeniaceae Velleia trinervis Haemodoraceae Anigozanthos flavidus Tall kangaroo paw Haemodoraceae Conostylis laxiflora Hemerocallidaceae Johnsonia lupulina Hooded lilly Iridaceae Patersonia occidentalis Purple flags Iridaceae Patersonia umbrosa Yellow flags Lamiaceae Hemigenia rigida Lauraceae Cassytha racemosa Dodder laurel Lobeliaceae Lobelia alata Loganiaceae Logania vaginalis White spray Menanthaceae Villarsia latifolia


APPENDIX 2 continued: NATIVE FLORA SPECIES LIST

Family Species Common Name Mimosaceae Acacia alata Winged wattle Mimosaceae Acacia gilbertii Mimosaceae Acacia myrtifolia Mimosaceae Acacia pulchella Prickly moses Mimosaceae Acacia stenoptera Narrow winged wattle Myrtaceae Agonis flexuosa WA peppermint Myrtaceae Astartea scoparia Myrtaceae Corymbia calophylla Marri Myrtaceae Eucalyptus marginata Jarrah Myrtaceae Eucalyptus patens Blackbutt Myrtaceae Taxandria linearifolia Swamp peppermint Myrtaceae Melaleuca preissiana Stout paperbark Myrtaceae Melaleauca incana Grey honeymyrtle Pittosporaceae Billardiera floribunda Pittosporaceae Billardiera fusiformis Australian bluebell Pittosporaceae Billardiera variifolia Pittosporaceae Marianthus tenuis Poaceae Austrostipa campylachne Poaceae Microleana stipoides Meadow ricegrass Poaceae Tetrarrhena laevis Forest ricegrass Podocarpaceae Podocarpus drouynianus Emu plum Polygalaceae Comesperma confertum Proteaceae Adenanthos obovatus Basket flower Proteaceae Banksia grandis Bull banksia Proteaceae Banksia littoralis Swamp banksia Proteaceae Hakea amplexicaulis Prickly hakea Proteaceae Hakea lissocarpha Honeybush Proteaceae Hakea lasianthioides Proteaceae Hakea linearis Proteaceae Hakea rusciifolia Proteaceae Grevillea manglessioides Proteaceae Grevillea quercifolia Oak leaf grevillea Proteaceae Synaphea gracillima Ranunculaceae Clematis pubescens Old man’s beard Restionaceae Meeboldina scariosa Velvet rush Restionaceae Taraxis grossa Rhamnaceae Trymalium odoratissimum Karri hazel Rubiaceae Opercularia hisidula Hispid stinkweed Tremandraceae Tremandra stelligera Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea preissii Balga Zamiaceae Macrozamia riedlei Zamia palm


APPENDIX 3: INTRODUCED FLORA SPECIES OBSERVED DURING SITE ASSESSMENT. Note, this list is not intended to be comprehensive but rather indicative and useful for planning and implementing revegetation and weed control efforts. DP = Declared Plant

Family Species Common Name Asparagaceae Asparagus asparagoides Bridal creeper Asteraceae Conyza sumatrensis Fleabane Asteraceae Dittrichia graveolens Stinkwort Asteraceae Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed Araceae Zantedeschia aethiopica Arum lily Cyperaceae Cyperus erragrostis Umbrella sedge Cyperaceae Isolepis prolifera Budding clubrush Euphorbiaceae Homalanthus novo-guineenis Bleeding heart tree Juncaceae Juncus microcephalis Iridaceae Gladiolus undulatus Wavy gladioli Iridaceae Watsonia spp. Watsonia Lamiaceae Menta pulegium Pennyroyal Mimosaceae Acacia floribunda Fringed wattle Mimosaceae Acacia iteaphylla Flinders range wattle Mimosaceae Acacia longifolia Sydney golden wattle Mimosaceae Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood Myrtaceae Leptospermum laevigatum Victorian tea tree Myrtaceae Melaleuca armillaris Bracelet honey myrtle Orchidaceae Disa bracteata South African orchid Pittosporaceae Pittosporum undulatum Sweet pittosporum Pinaceae Pinus spp Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain Poaceae Briza maxima Blowfly grass Poaceae Briza minor Shivery grass Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Couch Poaceae Avena barbata Bearded oat Poaceae Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog Poaceae Hyparrhenia hirta Tambookie grass Poaceae Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Poaceae Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Poaceae Paspalum distichum Water couch Poaceae Stenotaphrum secundatum Buffalo grass Polygalaceae Polygala myrtifolia Butterfly bush Rosaceae Rubus anglocandicandicans DP Blackberry Solanaceae Solanum nigrum Blackberry nightshade Tropaeolalceae Tropaeolum majus Nasturtium


APPENDIX 4: ISOLATED AREAS OF PRIORITY ENVIRONMENTAL WEED INVASION*

Species Location Action

Arum lily Southern tributary to Darch Brook – downstream of Tingle Ave

Isolated clumps – eradicate and monitor for seedlings

Victorian tea tree Foreshore side of the Waters Edge stormwater basin

Isolated plants – eradicate and monitor for seedlings

Flinders Range wattle, Blackwood

North of Watersedge Isolated plants – eradicate and monitor for seedlings

Butterfly bush, bracelet honey myrtle, tambookie, loquats, sweet pittosporum, Tasmanian blue gums

Between Rendall Close weir and Barrett St Reserve


European olive, Flinders Range wattle

Southern tributary to Darch Brook – upstream of Tingle Ave


Sydney golden wattle Near the Boulevard reserve access

Isolated plant – eradicate and monitor for seedlings

Butterfly bush Near the Bankside Rt. River access


Sydney golden wattle Around the north eastern Riverslea Drive stormwater basin


Sydney golden wattle Edge of Riverslea Drive opposite Highland View


Butterfly bush Darch Brook – just north of Halcyon Cres. Crossing


Sydney golden wattle Darch Brook – just north of Halcyon Cres. Crossing


*These species are all high priority environmental weeds capable of being highly invasive and given their current low levels of infestation, require minimal resources to control but will prevent more significant infestation and the requirement for larger resources to control.


APPENDIX 5: METHODS OF WEED CONTROL

Species Some suggested methods of management and control* Arum lily Zantedeschia aethiopica

Spray with with Chlorosulfuron 1g/ 10L plus wetting agent. Follow up for several years.

Watsonia Watsonia spp

Hand pull small areas. Wipe individual leaves with 10% glyphosate. Spray large areas with 2,2 DPA 10g/ L plus wetting agent

Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum

Spray with 1% Glyphosate 360g/L or Fusilade 10ml/L plus wetting agent; repeat 2-3 times over the growing season.

Blackberry Rubus anglocandicans

Hand pull small plants; spray larger areas with Metsulfuron Methyl 1g/ 10L.

Wavy gladiolus Gladiolus undulatus

Spot spray metsulfron methyl 0.2g/15L + 1%glyphosate 360g/L in degraded sites. 2,2 DPA 10g/ L plus wetting agent is also effective.

Tambookie grass Hyparrhenia hirta

Cut out small populations; spray with 1% glyphosphate360g/L between Nov and Mar. Spray seedlings at 5 leaf stage with Fusilade at 20mL/10L

Woody Weeds Flinders range wattle Acacia iteaphylla

Hand pull seedlings; cut and paint (100% glyphosate 360g/L) mature plants.

Sydney golden wattle Acacia longifolia

Hand pull seedlings; cut and paint (100% glyphosate 360g/L) mature plants.

Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon

Hand pull seedlings; stem inject mature plants with 50% glyphosate 360g/L.

Sweet pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum

Hand pull seedlings; cut and paint, injection – 50% glyphosate360g/L

European olive Olea europea

Basal bark with triclopyr/ picloram mixed with diesel – follow label for dilution rates.

Butterfly bush Polygala myrtifolia

Hand pull small seedlings; cut and paint – 100% Glyphosate360g/L.

Bracelet honey myrtle Melaleuca armillaris

Hand pull seedlings; mature plants – cut and paint -100% Glyphosate 360g/L.

Victorian tea tree Leptospermum laevigatum

Hand pull seedlings; mature plants – cut and paint -100% Glyphosate 360g/L.

Bleeding heart Homalanthus novo-guineenis

Hand pull seedlings, cut and paint mature plants – 100% Glyphosate 360g/L.

*Notes: 1. These management methods are adapted from those suggested within Bushland Weeds: A practical guide to their management by Kate Brown and Kris Brooks, and Southern Weeds and their control (2nd Edition) by John Moore and Judy Wheeler. 2. Before commencing, check that the suggested methods are still currently recommended and that the chemical is registered for the intended purpose. 3. Only appropriately trained, qualified and equipped people should undertake chemical control.


APPENDIX 6: SUGGESTED SPECIES FOR USE IN NODES OF REVEGETATION

Species Common Name

Rendall Close Weir Foreshore

Foreshore between weir and caravan

park

Lantana Lane

tributary erosion

Tingle Ave

tributary infill

planting

Lepidosperma effusum Sword sedge X X X X Lepidosperma tetraquetrum Square sedge X X X X Meeboldina scariosa Velvet rush X X X X Baumea juncea X X X X Baumea vaginalis Sheath twig rush X X X X Agonis flexuosa WA peppermint X X Juncus pallidus Pale rush X X X Astartea scoparia X X X Gahnia decomposita X X Anigozanthos flavidus Tall kangaroo paw X X X X Taraxis grossa X X X Eucalyptus patens Blackbutt X Eucalyptus megacarpa Bullich X Melaleuca incana Grey honey myrtle X Alternanthera nodiflora Common joyweed X X X X Taxandria linearifolia Swamp peppermint X X X Acacia myrtifolia X Hakea linearis X Callistachys lanceolata Native willow X Viminaria juncea Swishbush X Mirbellia dilatata Mirbellia X


APPENDIX 7: PHOTOS

Darch Brook and Margaret River confluence Directional signage Example of outdated interpretive signage

Runoff erosion from Oak Glen Rendall Close Bridge and signage The ‘Rope swing’ erosion and bank destabilisation


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Environmental Management Plan: Riverslea Foreshore June 2013

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