❓ Question regarding the environmental impact of roadworks on Great Eastern Highway, specifically concerning dieback, water catchment, clearing extent, and community perception. The Minister's response addresses these concerns, citing environmental management plans and offset planting.
AnsweredQoN 637Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
On 29 November 2003 the Minister for the Environment justified the partial revocation of state forest No 7 for Main Roads WA to build a dual carriageway and a number of “small realignments” on the 12 kilometres of Great Eastern Highway between Old Sawyers Valley Road and Great Southern Highway. (1) Given the acknowledged existence of dieback in trees in the Sawyers Valley area, what will be the expected impact of clearing right up to the edge of the state forest? (2) How does substantive ridge clearing in a sensitive water catchment area accord with good forestry practices and the Government’s water resource management policies? (3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(1) Given the acknowledged existence of dieback in trees in the Sawyers Valley area, what will be the expected impact of clearing right up to the edge of the state forest? (2) How does substantive ridge clearing in a sensitive water catchment area accord with good forestry practices and the Government’s water resource management policies? (3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(2) How does substantive ridge clearing in a sensitive water catchment area accord with good forestry practices and the Government’s water resource management policies? (3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
[See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(1) Given the acknowledged existence of dieback in trees in the Sawyers Valley area, what will be the expected impact of clearing right up to the edge of the state forest? (2) How does substantive ridge clearing in a sensitive water catchment area accord with good forestry practices and the Government’s water resource management policies? (3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(2) How does substantive ridge clearing in a sensitive water catchment area accord with good forestry practices and the Government’s water resource management policies? (3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(3) While it is understood that the rationale for the roadworks was safety, does the minister consider that the extent of the clearing - generally from 50 to over 100 metres wide, plus gravel pits and access roads - that has taken place was entirely justified for adding two more lanes and a number of “small realignments”? (4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
(4) Given the restraint that other private landowners are rightly being asked to exhibit in the clearing of remnant bush, especially in areas of water and biodiversity sensitivity, and the level of community concern surrounding the level of this clearing, does the minister agree that Main Roads’ lack of restraint sends the wrong signals to the rest of the community? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I have a four-part answer that I seek leave to table and have incorporated in Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
Leave granted. [See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
[See paper No 2513.] The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
The following material was incorporated - I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
I thank the Hon. Member for some notice of this question. 1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
1. I am advised that there would be no increased impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback in the adjacent State forest due to the clearing. Main Roads WA and their consultants used current dieback data and hygiene management protocols during clearing activities. The management of Phytophthora cinnamomi dieback was outlined in the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan for the project, and detailed Dieback Hygiene Management Plans were produced and implemented. The planning and implementation of dieback management has been with the input from, and to the satisfaction of, the Department of Conservation and Land Management. 2. Research has shown that salinity impacts from ridge clearing are minimal if, as in this case, substantial vegetation leaf area is maintained within a relevant sub-catchment. A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
A key water resources management policy for the Mundaring Weir catchment is that there is no net loss of vegetation. In the case of essential government works this policy is preserved by offset planting, within an equal or higher salinity risk zone, of an equivalent area to the approved clearing with appropriate vegetation species. The subject clearing will conform to this policy. The proponent is required to re-plant an equivalent amount to that cleared. 3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
3. The Minister for the Environment has been advised that the amount of clearing is directly related to the area required for the road alignment including the median strip to separate — traffic flows and earthworks associated with embankments and cuttings. Every effort has been made to minimise the required area, while still meeting appropriate design standards that will maximise safety and transport efficiency. 4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
4. No. Although approximately 70.2 hectares (including gravel pits) has been cleared for the road works some 50 hectares will be revegetated as part of an extensive post construction revegetation project.
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