Green Corridors Management Strategy for Upper Parramatta River Catchment: Part 3

This Plan of Management is for all Community Land under the terms of the local Government Act 1993 and Drainage Reserves that are part of the Green Corridor Network identified in the Green Corridors Management Strategy for the Upper Parramatta River Catchment.

This generic Plan of Management outlines the objectives for management and the ways that the land within "Green Corridors" of the Upper Parramatta River Catchment will be used. It may be used to determine the allocation of priorities for use of resources and funds, to guide the carrying out of works and landscape design.

The Plan of Management covers numerous areas of land with generally similar characteristics, including council and drainage reserves occurring in the Green Corridors. This generic Plan is likely to be progressively superseded by specific plans of management for individual sites, although this Plan may continue to be used as a reference (for example to determine objectives, definitions or management principles) for those sites and in the creation of individual plans of management.

Land To Which The Plan Applies

This Plan applies to all public, community and crown land identified as vegetation management zones in the Green Corridors Management Strategy for of the Upper Parramatta River Catchment. The maps ‘Vegetation Communities and Management Zones’ show the location of the parcels of land to which the Plan applies.

Category of Land and Dominant Use

For the purposes of the Local Government Act 1993, the land to which this Plan applies is categorised as Bushland Community Land or as Bushland within the Green Corridors. The dominant use of land identified as part of the Green Corridors is the protection of the biodiversity of the catchment. Vegetation management zones have been identified to determine management approaches and appropriate use for land within the corridors. The vegetation management zones identify areas for bushland regeneration and bushland restoration for the purpose of conservation of threatened and endangered species and ecological communities. They also indicate where revegetation for the creation of habitat links should be undertaken in order to create the Green Corridors. The dominant recreational use will be passive and nature based recreation and environmental education.

Strategic Planning Context

The strategic planning objectives for the "Green Corridors" and land to which the Plan applies are as follows:

To protect and increase the remnant native vegetation and biodiversity as healthy ecological systems, in natural Green Corridors.

To enhance and restore habitat for indigenous plants and animals.

To maintain and enhance the scenic, scientific, educational and ecological values of the natural heritage of the catchment.

To prevent degradation of native vegetation and habitat and to minimise physical disturbance to ecological processes, and to restore or reclaim degraded land. .

To promote and foster awareness and support for the ‘Green Corridors Management Strategy’, and to encourage community involvement.

To protect and provide areas for locally accessible, high quality nature based recreational use such as bush walking, walking, children’s play and relaxation in a natural environment.

To undertake and to foster research and monitoring of the ‘Green Corridors’ to document their significance and to assess and improve management practices.

Planning Controls Applying

The land to which this Plan applies is subject to the provisions of the various relevant Local Environmental Plans from local councils. Development consent under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 is required for development under the provisions of the relevant Local Environmental Plans.

State Environmental Planning Policy No 19 - Bushland in Urban Areas applies to the land. It requires consideration of bushland conservation in development applications. Development control plans may also apply to the land.

Plan of Management Objectives

The general objectives of the Plan are:

To inform council staff and the community of the way the land will be managed.

To achieve the specific objectives and works identified in the Plan of Management .

To maintain and improve the ecological values of the land.

To provide a reference and data bank in relation to information relevant to present and future management of the land.

To set in place an administrative structure to ensure the achievement of land management objectives.

To identify the major management issues applying to the land.

To determine a period for review of the Plan of Management .

To co-ordinate and simplify the process of management as far as possible.

To link vegetation management and restoration to State of the Environment Reporting undertaken by the Trust and local councils.

Management Authority

For the purposes of this Plan, the management authority is the Upper Parramatta Catchment Trust in co-operation with the relevant local City councils.

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Overview Of Plant Communities In The Upper Parramatta River Catchment

This section presents a brief overview of the plant communities occurring in the "Green Corridors" to which the Plan applies, and their significance. More details of the "Green Corridors" can be found in the Green Corridors Management Strategy and in the references listed in Section 9.

The management of the land must take into account the plant communities and ecosystems on the land and in the surrounding region. Eleven native plant communities occur within the catchment area comprising 5 habitat types. Most of these are endangered on a National level and inadequately conserved in reserves. These communities, fauna habitats and the Local Government Areas in which they occur are identified in Table 3.1.

Ideally, fauna and flora surveys and lists should be maintained for each plant community on each parcel of land, together with a record of management history, including records of bushfires and works. In the long term individual site records should be kept as far as possible with details of the location, time of year, date, person undertaking the survey, and the period of survey. This can become part of regular State of the Environment Reporting undertaken by local councils and the Catchment Trust.

As a general principle, any change to management practices, or any activities to be undertaken should be subject to a review of whether adequate information is available upon which to make an assessment of the environmental impact of the practice or activity. If insufficient information is available, a suitably qualified person should undertake field surveys.

Table 3.1: Plant Communities And Conservation Status In The Upper Parramatta River Catchment

Plant Community	Conservation Status	Local Government Areas
Blue Gum High Forest	Endangered ecological community (TSC Act 1995)	Baulkham Hills
Blue Gum River-flat Forest	Endangered	Parramatta
Cumberland Plain Woodland Grey Box Woodland Grey Box - Ironbark Woodland	Endangered ecological community (TSC Act 1995)	Blacktown, Baulkham Hills, Holroyd, Parramatta
River-flat Forest Red Gum - Cabbage Gum River-flat Forest Swamp Oak Forest	Endangered	Blacktown, Parramatta
Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland Complex	Generally inadequately conserved in the Sydney Region, some sub-units are endangered	Baulkham Hills, Parramatta
Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest Complex	Generally inadequately conserved in the Sydney Region, some sub-units are endangered	Baulkham Hills, Parramatta
Turpentine-Ironbark Forest	Endangered ecological community (TSC Act 1995)	Baulkham Hills, Parramatta
Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest	Endangered ecological community (TSC Act 1995)	Parramatta, Baulkham Hills
Riparian Complex	Endangered	Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Holroyd, Parramatta
Estuarine Complex	Inadequately conserved in Western Sydney	Parramatta

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Management Issues

Types of Management Issues

The management issues to be addressed by the Plan can be categorised into three types as outlined below. Some issues may fall into more than one category. The three types of management issues are:

protection and restoration of the natural ecosystems and endangered ecological communities and species in the Green Corridors and their ability to be self sustaining;

activities carried out on the land consisting of primarily recreational use and associated structures, and management practices to improve the natural ecosystems and indigenous species on the land; and

external activities carried out on nearby land (such as on neighboring properties) and impacting on the land.

The provisions of this Plan primarily relate to the first two types of issues with the latter primarily being regulated through the process of assessment and determination of development applications under the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. A Blueprint LEP and DCP are part of the Management Strategy and can be adopted by councils.

Summary of Management Issues

The management of the land must take into account the dominant use and the purpose for which the land is classified as community land, as well as the following specific matters:

Biodiversity conservation

Vegetation management and weed control

Wildlife habitat

Rare and threatened species and endangered ecological communities

Bush fires

Streams and stormwater

Recreational opportunities

Development works and infrastructure

Activities and maintenance

Pollution control

Access and occupation

Education and community involvement

Information, monitoring and research

Administration

General issues

Cultural and historic sites

For each issue, the following section briefly describes the issue, desired outcomes (where appropriate) and management guidelines to be applied.

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Management Policies and Guidelines

The management policies and guidelines applying to the land of the catchment are as indicated below. The general guidelines apply to all the Green Corridors but may not apply in all specific situations. Specific guidelines apply for the different types of land and remnant vegetation occurring in the catchment, namely remnant vegetation, bushland, sandstone slopes and gullies, wetlands, creeks and river banks and degraded land.

Where there are existing uses within the Green Corridors to which this Plan applies, and which are inconsistent with the guidelines outlined in this Plan, those existing uses may continue, but may not increase in area or intensity. Measures need to be undertaken to reduce their impact on ecological health and biodiversity and to find more appropriate and sustainable uses of natural areas.

This Plan specifies performance targets and priorities for actions to be taken in relation to the land to which the Plan applies. As far as possible, the matters specified in the Plan will occur as part of management practices and planning policies.

Assessment of achievements in regard to the objectives of the Plan is to be undertaken. A summary of indicators and targets for major objectives is as outlined in the table below.

Table 3.2: Indicators and Performance Targets for Management Guidelines

Objective	Indicators	Performance Target
Biodiversity conservation	Presence of threatened species, area of endangered ecological communities.	No loss of threatened species from area, no reduction in area or degradation of endangered ecological communities, increase in number and diversity of species.
Vegetation management and weed control	Area of site degradation, area of bush regeneration, species lists for each land parcel, area of land clearing, presence of weed species, regeneration of rare species.	Retention of present abundance and diversity of plant species and vegetation communities, improvement of natural resource data base, compliance with Plan guidelines.
Fauna	Presence of native fauna species, fauna surveys, presence of fauna habitat.	Compliance with Plan guidelines, retention of present abundance and diversity of fauna species.
Bush fires	Number of bushfires, intensity of bushfires, damage caused by bushfires, bushfire records.	Manageable bushfire hazard, protection of assets.
Streams and stormwater	Changes in water quality.	Improvement in water quality and stream biodiversity.
Recreational opportunities	Visitor usage, site degradation.	User satisfaction, public safety.
Development works and infrastructure	Preparation of specific site plans of management, cost of works.	Completion of construction, satisfactory site rehabilitation.
Activities and maintenance	Maintenance cost, regularity of inspection and cleaning, number of incidents of vandalism, inventory of assets.	Compliance with Plan guidelines, up to date inventory of assets.
Pollution control	Water quality monitoring, results of monitoring of other aspects of the environment.	Maintenance and updating of information, improvement in environmental quality.
Access and occupation	Cost of works undertaken.	Compliance with Plan guidelines.
Education and community involvement	Community management or monitoring programs.	Compliance with Plan guidelines.
Information, monitoring and research	Indicators to be monitored, documentation of areas and condition, mapping of areas.	Regular monitoring frequency, improvement of water quality.
Administration	Staff training undertaken, number of staff employed, qualified staff in bushland management.	Compliance with Plan guidelines.
General Issues	Issue of leases.	Compliance with Plan guidelines.
Cultural and historic sites	Number of heritage sites.	Compliance with Plan guidelines.

Biodiversity Conservation

Objectives

to retain, conserve and enhance the biological diversity and variety of species and vegetation communities that occur in the area
to conserve and assist in the recovery of rare and threatened species and endangered ecological communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
to protect and enhance the catchment’s natural heritage and its cultural and social significance

Performance Target

no loss of threatened species from area
no reduction in area or degradation of endangered ecological communities
increase in number and diversity of species

Indicators

presence of threatened species
area of endangered ecological communities
level of disturbance of endangered ecological communities
diversity of species

Management Policies and Guidelines

Rare and Threatened Plants

Identify and protect areas worthy of special protection from threatening processes. These areas include locations of rare plant communities or rare or threatened plants (ROTAP) as recorded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, species and habitat of species and ecological communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Implement special management measures that may be required on such land.

Linking of natural areas in "Green Corridors"

Green Corridors and associated indigenous vegetation and habitat should be retained in contiguous areas as large and as compact as possible, with the minimum length of edges. Take measures to avoid fragmentation of vegetation and habitat in Green Corridors and locate areas for mowing, roads, tracks, services and the like in a way that minimises fragmentation.

Vegetation Management and Weed Control

Objectives

to retain the distribution, abundance and diversity of native species and communities presently existing on the land
to regenerate pre-existing natural communities where appropriate
to minimise the area, degree and duration of disturbance to natural vegetation
to identify and recognise the important features and significance of the land

Performance Target

retention of present abundance and diversity of plant species and vegetation communities
improvement of natural resource data base
compliance with Plan guidelines

Performance Indicators

area of site degradation
area of bush regeneration
species lists for each land parcel
area of land clearing, presence of weed species
regeneration of rare species

Management Policies and Guidelines

Vegetation Structure	Management practices will aim at retaining and restoring the different structural forms of plant communities and their general character including height, density and form. Typical vegetation structures that occur are tall open forest, woodland, and heath. Practices will differ according to the vegetation type.
Species inventory	Before any activity with the potential to disturb bushland is carried out on the land, a plant survey will be undertaken to establish an inventory of the species present, and any specific management requirements for the protection of particular plants.
Dominant Species	Dominant native species will be retained and natural processes allowed and encouraged to continue. Management practices will take into consideration that natural vegetation communities are self sustaining and change over time according to changes in environmental factors including climate, bushfires, or other disturbance. Communities are generally described in terms of dominant species (especially trees) and may be subject to succession over time.
Regeneration, rehabilitation and restoration	The protection and enhancement of existing vegetation and habitat will be the first priority in vegetation management. Where land disturbance occurs, bush regeneration is the preferred method of rehabilitation. Restoration should take priority in areas which act as buffer zones of remnants or as links of fragmented vegetation or habitat.
Fauna Habitat	Vegetation management shall have regard to the value of the vegetation as fauna habitat. In particular, management should protect and retain old trees (both living and dead) with nesting holes and a diverse vegetation structure maintaining understorey species to preserve fauna habitat.

Vegetation corridors	Vegetation corridors shall be retained or restored to link larger areas of vegetation in order to facilitate movement of native fauna and plants. Vegetation corridors and links may be planted or regenerated.
Fire sensitivity of plant species	In undertaking any management activities involving the use of fire management practices will consider that different species have varying sensitivity to fire and may require varying fire frequencies and intensities for survival.
Disturbance to vegetation	Measures will be taken to prevent disturbance to existing vegetation and habitat, including roots, water regime, and surrounding soil associated with the existing vegetation.
Vegetation removal	Indigenous vegetation is not to be removed from a site without proper investigation into its significance. Non native vegetation removed from a site is to be disposed of away from bushland to avoid spread of seed or introduction of additional nutrients. Trees may be removed or cut only where they are hazardous to public safety, or where they are a weed or non native species. Unsafe, diseased or dying trees immediately adjacent to facilities, buildings or high use public areas may be removed if they pose a threat to public safety.
Vegetation along watercourses	Indigenous vegetation and natural hydrological processes shall be retained and restored along watercourses as far as possible. Weedy non-indigenous vegetation will be removed and replaced in a sensitive patchwork manner which retains habitat until it is adequately replaced by indigenous vegetation.
Replacement and planting of vegetation	Genetic material from local sources will be used as far as available for revegetation and restoration work in Green Corridors as far as possible.
Formal gardens and sports fields	Are not compatible with retention of natural vegetation, and new gardens and sport fields will not be constructed on land containing indigenous vegetation and habitat.

Wildlife Habitat

Objectives

to protect, maintain and enhance native fauna populations and habitats
to minimise the impact on wildlife and habitat whenever any management activity is proposed (such as bushland regeneration, weed control, bushfire hazard reduction, recreation activities, or track construction etc)

Performance Target

compliance with Plan guidelines
retention and increase of present abundance and diversity of fauna species

Performance Indicators

presence of native fauna species
fauna surveys
presence of fauna habitat

Management Policies and Guidelines

Threatened fauna	Individual plans of management and landscape plans should provide for the protection, recovery and expansion of habitat of threatened fauna and exclude threatening processes. Any activities undertaken on the land shall be carried out in a manner that ensures that threatened native fauna is not adversely affected by the activity. This includes fauna and populations and listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995.
Protection of Native fauna	Management practices will protect and enhance the habitat of any native fauna in the Green Corridors by enhancing habitat and excluding threatening processes.
Habitat	Habitat within the corridors will be expanded and enhanced through the introduction of designated habitat areas and the installation of shelter structures, nesting boxes and food providing plants.
Re-introduction and release of native fauna	Will only be permitted where it is reasonably likely that the land on which the animal is to be released forms part of its expected home range.
Fauna surveys	Fauna surveys shall be undertaken prior to any significant development works likely to affect the habitat of any native fauna. Plans for the protection and recovery of affected fauna need to be prepared in conjunction with any development work.
Introduced fauna	Control of predatory introduced and feral animals (foxes, wild dogs, cats, etc) will be undertaken within habitat areas. Barriers against predatory animals will be installed around designated habitat areas.

Bush Fires

Objectives

to take measures to prevent damage to life and property from bushfires
to ensure that bushfire management is compatible with the other objectives of this Plan of Management

Performance Target

manageable bushfire hazard
protection of assets

Performance Indicators

number of bushfires
intensity of bushfires
damage caused by bushfires, bushfire records

Management Policies and Guidelines

Bushfire hazard reduction	Shall be undertaken where there is an identified high hazard to improvements on the land or on surrounding land. As far as possible, bushfire hazard reduction shall be by mechanical means and will be undertaken along property boundaries. Hazard reduction programs are to include an adequate environmental assessment and will be implemented in a manner which protects the biological diversity.
Fire regimes	Different plant communities and species respond differently to fire and may benefit from or be adversely affected by fires occurring at differing intervals, intensities and seasons. For some plant communities a minimum inter fire period has been estimated based on the period of time required for fire sensitive species to grow and reproduce. Estimates of the general minimum inter fire period for plant communities within the Upper Parramatta River Catchment are shown in the following table. It should be noted that this may not be applicable to specific sites. Wet sclerophyll forest 30 year minimum burn period Dry sclerophyll forest 12 year minimum burn period Woodland 6-12 year minimum burn period Scrubland and heath 12 year minimum burn period Wetland very infrequent (unlikely to burn)
Bushfire management plans	Where appropriate, specific parcels of community land will have a fire management plan prepared and adopted.
Broad scale hazard reduction burns	Should be conducted in a manner that retains patches of unburnt vegetation.
Fire trails	Existing fire trails are to be maintained in good condition, or shall be closed and rehabilitated where no longer required. No new trails are to be constructed.
Monitoring	Periodic weed monitoring and control needs to be undertaken after bushfires and hazard reduction burning.

Emergencies

This Plan authorises any necessary activities to be carried out during declared bushfire emergencies. Following the carrying out of any works, periodic monitoring will be undertaken, and rehabilitation works carried out if necessary.

Creeks and Stormwater

Objective

to promote the protection of creek habitats, ecosystems and amenity

Performance Target

improvement in water quality, creek habitat and biodiversity

Performance Indicator

changes in water quality
populations and diversity of wildlife

Management Policies and Guidelines

Watercourses	Natural hydrological processes are to be maintained wherever possible, including natural vegetation and flow regimes to maintain creek line stability and health of terrestrial and aquatic plant communities.
Drainage, runoff and stormwater	Water quality entering "Green Corridors" is to be maintained at a level which is acceptable for sustainable Natural Area management, as close as possible to pre development conditions. No additional runoff is to discharge into bushland areas. Special design requirements apply for pipe discharges into bushland, including measures to ensure dissipation of stormwater velocity. Permeable ground surfaces are to be maintained as far as possible and on site disposal of stormwater should occur.
Pollution	Pollution of estuaries is to be prevented or minimised as much as possible by use of alternative disposal methods or high level treatment of wastes.
Water quality	Activities along streams are to be strictly controlled with the objective of maintaining a level of water quality suitable for fish and other aquatic life.
Stormwater drains	Drains into foreshores and estuaries are to incorporate pollution control measures to minimise load of debris, sediments, nutrients and chemicals and other pollutants entering the waterway.
Streambank erosion	Measures shall be taken to prevent streambank erosion.
Land reclamation	There shall be no reclamation of foreshores or estuaries which results in any loss of, or disturbance to wetlands or other natural vegetation communities or habitat.
Watercourses	Natural vegetation and aquatic communities are to be retained along watercourses as far as possible. Watercourses within bushland are particularly susceptible to disturbance and invasion by weeds, and additional measures are to be taken to monitor and control disturbance in such areas.

Loss of wetlands

Any activity undertaken is to prevent any net loss of wetland area, and measures will be taken to ensure that there is no degradation of the quality of wetlands. Wetlands are important because of their role in sediment and nutrient filtration, thus maintaining downstream water quality. Important issues are clearing, filling and draining in and around wetlands. Wetlands occur in a variety of situations, and may be associated with estuaries, floodplains and other streams or poorly drained sites. As far as possible, the functions of existing wetlands are to be maintained.

Filling and draining

There shall be no reclamation, filling or draining which results in any loss of, or disturbance to wetlands or other associated natural habitat. The fauna habitat value of wetlands and associated surrounding "Green Corridors" is to be maintained, and where possible, enhanced.

Recreational Opportunities

Objective

recreation activities are encouraged, but are subsidiary to the objective of management of the land to retain its natural features and qualities

Performance Targets

user satisfaction
public safety

Performance Indicators

visitor usage
site degradation

Management Policies and Guidelines

Recreational activities	Within natural areas, the Trust and councils may restrict any recreational activity to specific areas, times or seasons where this is necessary to achieve the biodiversity conservation objectives of the Plan.
Bushwalking	Bushwalking is permitted in all natural areas on designated walking tracks.
Off road recreation vehicles	Off road recreation vehicles are prohibited in all natural areas, except on properly constructed roads, or where used for maintenance or management purposes.
Field sports	Formal playing fields for sports can be provided in the management zone ‘Revegetation’. New formal playing fields for sports will not be provided in management zones ‘Bush Regeneration’ and ‘Bush Restoration’, although informal areas of open space may be used for ball games .
Fishing	Fishing is controlled by State Fisheries and is unaffected by the operation of this Plan.
Barbecues	Barbecues may be established only in designated formal picnic areas, and measures shall be taken to prevent bushfire hazards. Such measures shall include a minimum cleared distance between the barbecue and bushland of 20 metres and provision of reticulated water supply on site. Barbecues shall wherever possible not require timber for fuel, unless provision is made for this to be obtained from off the site.
Recreation equipment	Recreation equipment, including playing facilities, tables, and the like shall be installed and maintained in accordance with accepted standards and to minimise impact on the natural environment, in particular on endangered species and ecological communities. Preferably, picnic facilities should be installed in areas already cleared and sited to take advantage of views.
Cycling	Cycling is encouraged on existing formal cycling tracks and adjoining quiet roads. However, on informal tracks within natural areas in particular on sandstone slopes and in gullies, cycling causes damage to natural vegetation, and contributes to soil erosion and track damage. Cycling on shared walkways impacts on the enjoyment of a quiet environment and affects the safety of pedestrians. In 'Bush regeneration' and 'Bush restoration' zones cycling should be restricted to existing paved cycling paths or adjoining roads and prohibited on sandstone slopes and in gullies and along creek banks. Cycling paths should be kept a minimum distance of 20 metres from the edges of creek banks, wetlands and endangered ecological communities to prevent damage to plants and soil as well as weed invasion caused by earthworks, runoff and erosion. Shared paths should be installed in flat, cleared land only. Consideration needs to be given the containment of runoff and ensuring pedestrian safety. Special attention needs to be focussed on the safety needs and enjoyment of children, senior citizens and people with disabilities as to protect them from cyclists travelling at high speeds. In parks paths need to be designed to keep paved area to a minimum. Paved paths wider than 2m tend to encourage undesired and illegal vehicle access and associated damage including rubbish dumping and erosion.
Public entertainment	Public entertainment may only be carried out with the prior consent of the council and where it is satisfied that no public nuisance and damage to natural vegetation and habitat will occur.
Horse riding	Horse riding is only permitted on designated tracks. Horse riding causes damage to informal tracks and natural areas, spread of weeds and introduction of nutrients. Any new designated tracks are not to be located in substantially intact bushland areas, and regular maintenance is required, especially to control track damage and erosion.
Camping	Overnight camping is not permitted, except where specifically designated. The council may permit occasional camping in designated areas in conjunction with specific events. Camping areas are to have adequate arrangements for sewerage and waste disposal. They need to be sited as to ensure that no public nuisance and damage to natural vegetation and habitat will occur. Camping should not take place in areas where endangered ecological communities or species occur.

Development Works and Infrastructure

The Plan does not authorise new development works except under certain conditions, and where any necessary approvals have been obtained. Generally, provision of facilities in sensitive "Green Corridors" will be limited.

Objectives

to undertake development activities in a way that minimises the area, degree and duration of disturbance. Areas are to be restored to the greatest extent practicable

to use on site resources (topsoil, vegetation, seed stock, etc) to the maximum possible extent

to sensitively designed amenities and facilities which may be provided where consistent with the need to facilitate public enjoyment of the natural area and where compatible with its conservation

to maintain amenities and infrastructure to the highest possible standard

Performance Target

completion of construction, satisfactory site rehabilitation

Performance Indicators

preparation of specific site plans of management, cost of works

Management Policies and Guidelines

Lighting	Shall not be provided in natural areas, except where required for public safety and the protection of assets.
Services and utilities	Services and utilities (including water supply, sewerage, electricity supply and telecommunications) may be constructed, maintained or repaired on the land, provided that the other guidelines of this Plan are complied with.
Community uses and buildings	Are permitted in and adjacent to existing buildings. New development is subject to other provisions of this Plan.
Signs	Signs may be erected on the land in accordance with the council’s Sign Code and in compliance with the provisions of this Plan.
Recreation facilities	Facilities specifically for active recreation purposes will not be provided in natural areas. Passive recreation facilities consistent with the objectives of this Plan may be provided, subject to the other provisions of the Plan.
Observation and lookout points	May be established provided they are not visually obtrusive, and are constructed and maintained in a manner such as to ensure public safety.
Landscape design	In any works being undertaken, the Trust and councils will seek to ensure a high standard of landscape design.
Protection of trees	Measures are to be taken to prevent damage and disturbance to tree roots by cutting of roots, loss of water, soil compaction or build up of soil.
Tree planting	New tree plantings wherever possible are to be locally indigenous species to link, enhance and complement local native vegetation.
Construction works	Shall ensure that there is progressive site stabilisation and restoration undertaken during the construction process.
Soil compaction	Measures shall be taken to minimise the compaction of soil by heavy machinery.
Stockpiling of materials	Works are to be completed in stages (clearing, topsoil stripping, relocation of topsoil, mulching, planting, etc) and shall follow the principle of isolating stockpiles of different materials to prevent contamination.
Development adjacent to community land	Development works along boundaries and adjacent to the land to which this Plan applies shall take into account the guidelines outlined in this section.
Clearing	There shall be no further clearing of bushland on the land.
Filling	As far as possible, there shall be no introduced fill from off the site. Where the introduction of fill cannot be avoided, it has to be ensured that fill material is free of any contamination, including by weeds. On site soil material shall only be used where it has a minimal weed content.
Restoration	Following construction, all areas immediately adjoining Green Corridors shall be restored, as far as possible reinstating the plant species, structure and dynamics of the pre existing indigenous plant communities. Strategies should be adopted which maximise the natural recovery of those plant communities. Restoration shall ensure that weed invasion of nearby Green Corridors is minimised as much as possible.
Draining	Drainage works shall only be undertaken where these do not adversely affect the natural drainage patterns on the land, and where the works are essential to protect roads, services, buildings or other improvements on the land.
Earthworks	Shall be minimised as far as possible, and are to be undertaken in a manner to ensure that the necessity for rehabilitation is minimised.
Nutrients leached from building materials	Materials (including concrete, gravel, topsoil, etc) shall be stockpiled in such a way as to prevent nutrients from leaching into watercourses or into groundwater systems.
Development adjoining "Green Corridors"	As far as possible, development adjoining Green Corridors shall retain Green Corridors on adjoining private land, and appropriate conditions of consent shall be imposed to prevent adverse impacts on natural areas.
New development works	New development works (such as construction of roads, parking areas, cycleways, etc) are not authorised by this Plan, except where the works are consistent with the objectives of this Plan, and are identified in an adopted master plan for the parcel of land on which the works are proposed, and where any necessary approvals have been obtained under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 or the Local Government Act 1993.

Activities and Maintenance

Objective

to apply appropriate maintenance works and other activities as a means of achieving the long term objectives of this Plan

Performance Target

compliance with Plan guidelines
up to date inventory of assets

Performance Indicators

maintenance cost
regularity of inspection and cleaning
number of incidents of vandalism
inventory of assets

Management Policies and Guidelines

Maintenance	Existing assets on the land shall be identified and measures taken to maintain them in a satisfactory manner. The Trust and councils may make arrangements for community groups to undertake maintenance for specific facilities on their behalf.
Acceptable activities	This Plan of Management authorises the activities as listed below, in cases where the activities do not compromise the identified dominant use of the land as a natural area. Passive recreational uses are permitted, including bushwalking, photography, etc. Educational and scientific uses are permitted.
Unacceptable activities	Activities interfering with the peace and ecological diversity of "Green Corridors" are generally discouraged, unless specific provision has been made for them.
Unauthorised activities	Activities which are not authorised include powered vehicles, other than essential service vehicles, horse riding, hunting, collection of fauna and flora, rocks, soil, timber (alive or dead) and leaf litter, any intensive activities and clearing of vegetation to preserve views.
Domestic pets	Domestic pets should be discouraged from utilising bush regeneration and bush restoration zones, and may only use these areas when accompanied by a person, and where they are under complete control.
Active recreational use	Generally, provision for active recreational uses is not made in natural areas.

Pollution Control

Objectives

to ensure that no pollution is generated on the land, and that adequate measures are taken to prevent adverse impacts from adjoining land, as it is a major factor in weed invasion and in the degradation of natural areas. Management should seek to prevent runoff and other adverse impacts from adjoining lands.

Performance Target

maintenance and updating of information
improvement in environmental quality

Performance Indicator

water quality monitoring
results of monitoring of other aspects of the environment

Management Policies and Guidelines

Soil erosion and sedimentation	All activities are to ensure adequate controls to prevent soil erosion and sedimentation and are to be inspected periodically. This is particularly important during any construction works, and in the maintenance of roads and tracks.
Nutrients	Measures will be taken to minimise and to control nutrients entering watercourses, water bodies or groundwater. Paved surfaces should be designed to minimise nutrient runoff and concrete should be used in preference to bitumen.
Environmental Protection (noise control, dust, chemicals, etc)	Measures will be taken during any construction or maintenance works on the land to ensure that normal environmental protection, pollution control and health guidelines are complied with.
Litter	Litter shall be regularly collected and removed. Litter bins shall only be provided adjacent to amenities in natural areas. It is the responsibility of all users to ensure that any areas used are left in a tidy manner after use.
Rubbish Dumping (including garden waste)	Is not permitted. Any lawn clippings are to be disposed off site or in a manner that does not affect natural vegetation, or encourage the spread of weeds.
Irrigation	Irrigation is to be minimised on all lawns or mowed areas to avoid runoff and a raised water table.

Access and Occupation

Objectives

to ensure that essential pedestrian and vehicular access through or into "Green Corridors" minimises the impact on the area. Non-essential pedestrian and vehicular access shall be progressively closed and affected areas restored
to prevent permanent or temporary use of "Green Corridors" on community land for access to private lands

Performance Target

compliance with Plan guidelines

Performance Indicators

cost of works undertaken

Management Policies and Guidelines

New roads	The Plan does not authorise the construction of new roads, or improvements to existing roads on a substantially new alignment.
Road maintenance	Existing roads are to be regularly maintained in a safe condition and to prevent undesired runoff.
Maintenance track construction	Location and construction of maintenance tracks shall ensure minimal erosion and soil loss, and be constructed of a suitable standard to require minimal maintenance, and ideally stay unpaved.
Track maintenance	Tracks are to be inspected at least annually and are to be maintained to ensure they do not become unsafe, are subject to severe erosion or cause land degradation.
Track closure	The Trust and councils may close and rehabilitate non essential tracks, or other roads and tracks that are poorly located and represent an erosion hazard.
Car Parking	Parking facilities may be provided in association with the provision of recreation facilities on already cleared land in revegetation zones only. They shall be designed and constructed to minimise runoff and erosion and any other impact on the natural environment.
Cycleways	Cycleways may be constructed in revegetation zones only in areas where minimum impact on pedestrians and the quiet atmosphere of parkland is not impacted. Cycling paths should be kept a minimum distance of 20 metres from the edges of creek banks, wetlands and endangered ecological communities to prevent damage to plants and soil and weed invasion caused by earthworks, runoff and erosion. To prevent adverse impact on bushland, remnant vegetation and soil, shared paths should be installed in flat, cleared land only. Consideration needs to be given to the containment of runoff and ensuring pedestrian safety. Special attention needs to be focussed on the safety needs and enjoyment of children, senior citizens and people with disabilities as to protect them from cyclists travelling at high speeds. In parks, paths need to be designed to keep paved area to a minimum. Paved paths wider than 2m tend to encourage undesired and illegal vehicle access and associated damage such as rubbish dumping and erosion.
Paths and paving	New walking paths and paving may be constructed in association with existing facilities, and shall be adequately maintained. Paths in steeper areas need to be designed as to minimise adverse impacts such as soil erosion and nutrient rich runoff. On slopes and along creeks, paths need to be narrow and informal as to maintain the natural appearance and ecological health of the creek and vegetation. Attention needs to be given to containing runoff and preventing damage to existing native vegetation. Paths can be used as edge areas, to separate revegetation and restoration areas from invasive exotic grass and runoff (see design guidelines). Paths in bush regeneration zones need to be constructed on land already cleared.
Fences and fencing	Fencing may be constructed to restrict access and/or to protect environmentally sensitive areas from vehicle access and predatory animals. Fences shall be in accordance with standards or guidelines adopted by the council. Normally, as provided for in the Dividing Fences Act, boundary fences are the responsibility of adjoining owners to construct and maintain and council does not contribute to fencing boundaries to private land.
Vehicle and Four Wheel Drive access	Vehicle access shall not be provided, except for maintenance vehicles.
Illegal access	Unauthorised access is not supported, and where the Trust or councils are aware of such access, measures will be taken to stop it.
Illegal occupation	Unauthorised occupation of community land is not supported, and where the Trust or councils are aware of such occupation, measures will be taken to stop it.
Public access	Public access can be denied to assist rehabilitation or protection of endangered communities, species or items of aboriginal significance, or where a lease has been granted, but shall not otherwise be denied.

Education and Community Involvement

Objectives

to provide an important educational resource and to encourage community involvement as important in management and monitoring and the protection of important natural values

Performance Targets

compliance with Plan guidelines

Performance Indicators

community management or monitoring programs

Management Policies and Guidelines

Environmental Education and advocacy

Education and interpretative facilities may be provided in natural areas with a focus on interpreting the natural qualities, species and ecological processes of the catchment. Active education programs need to be introduced to infom the public about the value of endangered vegetation and care of the natural environment.

Information needs to be distributed to educate and involve the public in appropriate behaviour and care on public and private land. This needs to involve the prevention of threatening processes such as rubbish dumping, clearing of understorey, damage to remnant trees and predation by cats. Encouragement of positive actions such as revegetation with indigenous species, active bush regeneration, care for remnant trees, installation of nesting boxes and control of predatory cats and dogs should take place through local papers and community activities.

Schools need to be encouraged to undertake environmental education, restoration and monitoring projects in the bush regeneration and restoration zones.

Use of areas by educational and scientific institutions

The Plan allows and seeks to promote use of natural vegetation for scientific research and education, especially for filling in data gaps. Educational institutions are to advise the Trust and councils of their activities and of the results of any research undertaken.

Community involvement in management

Where appropriate, the Trust and councils may undertake community consultation to gain input into this Plan and involve community groups or individuals in environmental care and management. Groups should be encouraged to and assisted with applying for funding to undertake environmental restoration projects. Environmental Officers and Bush Regeneration Officers should be involved in community liaison and work together in a catchment context.

Information, Monitoring and Research

Objectives

to regularly document and update information relating to land to which the Plan applies, and to monitor changes
to encourage educational and scientific use of "Green Corridors"

Performance Targets

regular monitoring frequency
improvement of water quality

Performance Indicators

indicators to be monitored
documentation of areas and condition
mapping of areas

Management Policies and Guidelines

Visitor monitoring and research	Measures should be instituted to assess usage of areas by visitors and monitor their response and appreciation of the natural environment as well assessing environmental impacts of recreational use.
Environmental information	A data base of environmental information of relevance for management should be established and maintained. Key components would include information on the presence of plant and fauna species, plant communities, bushfire history and weeds. This should be part of the councils' State of the Environment Reporting and Trusts State of River reporting. Green-Web Sydney provides a standard format for reporting on vegetation remnants for local Government that could be used.
Environmental Monitoring	Periodic environmental monitoring of important environmental indicators is desirable to establish changes or trends, and should be undertaken, especially in relation to water quality and species diversity.

Administration

Objectives

to administer and resource the Plan and activities on the land in a way which achieves the objectives of the Plan and implements the management guidelines within the shortest possible timeframe
to provide adequate training and authority to staff responsible for the implementation of the Plan

Performance Targets

compliance with the Plan's objectives and guidelines
provision of adequate financial and staff resources

Performance Indicators

staff training undertaken
number of staff employed
qualified staff in bushland management and restoration

Management Policies and Guidelines

Staff resources	The Trust and councils shall seek to provide adequate staff resources for the management of the land in accordance with this Plan. Staff shall have appropriate qualifications and/or experience.
Environmental impact assessment of activities	The environmental impact of activities carried out on the land will be assessed with regard to the requirements under Part V of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
Role of other authorities (eg Dept Land and Water Conservation)	Other government authorities may have responsibilities or involvement in the management of the land or of immediately adjacent land. This will be taken into account, and where appropriate, consultation will take place with relevant authorities.
Activities carried out by other authorities	Where activities are carried out on the land by other authorities, the Trust and councils will make such authorities aware of the provisions of this Plan and as far as possible shall seek to ensure that any activities are compatible with the objectives and guidelines of this Plan.
Contract and volunteer labour	In managing the land the Trust and councils may use contract and volunteer labour but shall ensure that supervisors have appropriate qualifications and experience, and are made aware of the requirements of this Plan.
Delegation of management responsibilities	Where management responsibilities are delegated by the Trust and councils a requirement of the delegation shall be that the provisions of this Plan of Management are complied with.

Leases and licences	These formalise the use of community land by groups, commercial organisations or individuals. The Local Government Act 1993 requires that lease or licences applying to community land should be authorised by a Plan of Management . A licence may be needed where intermittent or short term use of a reserve is proposed. A lease for community buildings (managed by recognised community groups) will be authorised by this Plan of Management and allocated by due council processes. Seasonal or permanent bookings of bushland reserves will not be considered. Casual users of reserves (one off events for the use of a reserve) will be considered without the need for a licence, provided that there is no significant damage to the reserve, no significant disturbance to adjacent property owners, no interference with other users and all litter is removed.
Leasing	The Plan authorises the council to lease land to which this Plan applies for a purpose for which the land was being used at the date of commencement of the Plan, or for any other purpose which is specifically allowed under the terms of this management Plan. Any leases are to be in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act.
Encroachments	Where an encroachment upon public land by a permanent structure occurs, and the structure does not significantly interfere with the functioning of the reserve the council may consider a lease or licence agreement with the adjoining property owner and recoup a fee as part of that agreement and impose conditions on its use or future removal.
Easements	The council may grant easements for the provision of services over, or on land to which this Plan applies where these are unlikely to adversely affect bushland on the land.
Temporary uses	The council may allow temporary use of any of the land to which this Plan applies up to a maximum continuous period of one month in any calendar year, provided it is satisfied that the use does not significantly adversely affect the permanent uses of the land and conforms to the objectives of this Plan. In allowing such a temporary use, the council will have regard to the environmental impact of the use, as provided for in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979.

General issues

Objectives

to take into consideration the management of the land without compromising biodiversity conservation

Performance Targets

compliance with the Plans objectives and guidelines

Performance Indicators

issue of leases

Management Policies and Guidelines

Adjoining developments	The Trust and councils will take into account the effect of development and management activities carried out on adjoining land. Activities of concern include discharge of stormwater, clearing, and unauthorised filling. As far as possible, adjoining developments should seek to provide for buffer zones on private land adjoining "Green Corridors", and joint boundary management programs with adjacent landholders.
Energy efficiency	Measures shall be taken to improve the energy efficiency of all buildings and activities carried out on the land to which this Plan applies. Measures shall include use of energy efficient lighting, periodic auditing of energy use, and appropriate orientation of any new buildings to passive solar design principles.
Neighbours	The Trust and councils shall endeavour to be a good neighbour, and as far as possible shall consult with adjoining owners in respect of management activities which may affect them.
Commercial activities (eg selling food and drinks)	Commercial activities may be carried out on the land to which this Plan applies, provided that such use is ancillary to the use of land for a purpose authorised under this Plan, and subject to prior council consent.
Emergencies	This Plan authorises any necessary activities to be carried out during declared emergencies as may be decided by the General Manager. Following the carrying out of any activities, periodic monitoring will be undertaken, and rehabilitation works undertaken if necessary.
Public liability	The council will maintain public liability insurance for the land to which the Plan applies.
Public safety	Reasonable measures will be taken by the Trust and councils to ensure and maintain the public safety of persons using the land.

Cultural and Historic Sites

Objectives

to take measures that ensure that sites of cultural and historic significance are protected, and the requirements of any applicable legislation are to be complied with

Performance Targets

compliance with the Plans objectives and guidelines

Performance Indicators

number of protected heritage sites

Management Policies and Guidelines

Aboriginal sites	Such sites are likely to occur, even if not currently known and are to be protected. Any significant development works should be subject to an archaeological survey to establish the presence or absence of sites.
European Heritage	Items of the European cultural heritage may be identified on the land, and shall be protected and maintained.

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Vegetation Management Zones

Three management zones have been identified for vegetation management. The applicable zone for management must be identified for each site following proper site assessment. The management objectives and practices will vary for each zone.

The management zones and their characteristics are outlined below.

Bush Regeneration

Bush regeneration (including natural regeneration and assisted regeneration) has the objective of returning bushland and its ecosystem processes to a natural condition.

One type of bush regeneration is natural regeneration, which relies on natural germination and resprouting of plants and focuses on weed removal, management of disturbance and the maintenance of natural processes and does not normally include replanting of vegetation. Assisted regeneration uses natural regeneration but also includes intervention actions such as site replanting with locally indigenous seed or plant material derived from the locality and from a similar plant community to that occurring on the site, or controlled management of disturbance.

Land suitable for bush regeneration must be in reasonable condition where disturbance can be effectively controlled.

In this Plan, this zone is generally referred to as bush regeneration zone.

Bush Restoration

Bush reconstruction is appropriate in situations where there has been significant disturbance to a site and bush regeneration is not likely to be successful.

Bush reconstruction is the process of restoring bushland to a former condition where resilience is depleted, and ecosystem elements or processes need importation or major amendment before recovery can recommence. This includes reintroduction of species and major changes to the ecosystem structure and function on a site.

For some important plant communities (such as those listed as endangered ecological communities) special measures may need to be applied to reconstruct plant communities where they have been extensively disturbed.

In this Plan, this zone is generally referred to as bush restoration zone.

Revegetation

Revegetation means the planting or establishment of plants on a site with an emphasis on the growth of the plants rather than the maintenance of natural processes. The objective of revegetation is to increase tree and native vegetation cover for reasons of enhancing biodiversity, amenity and visual impact, and establishing corridors. In most cases revegetation will take place on land that is already cleared or extensively disturbed and not on bushland.

In this Plan, this zone is generally referred to as revegetation zone.

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Implementation

How to apply the Management Policies and Guidelines

The management policies and guidelines outlined in this Plan must be taken into consideration in making decisions on management and must be complied with.

Administration

The Executive Officer of the Upper Parramatta Trust is responsible for the implementation and advocacy of the Plan of Management and Green Corridor Strategy.

When adopted by a local council, the council’s General Manager is responsible for implementing the provisions of this Plan. The General Manager will determine the appropriate division responsible for applying and and reviewing the Plan.

The main priority for management during the term of this Plan is to maintain current areas of indigenous vegetation and habitat at least their present level and to prepare an updated inventory of vegetation and habitat.

The Trust and councils need to adopt the Green Corridor Strategy as a framework for future management of green corridors and work together to implement its recommendations. These need to be incorporated in the Trust’s and council’s corporate management plans for allocation of resources and into individual plans of management for on-the ground implementation.

Particular attention needs to be given to staff development and training in management of indigenous vegetation and habitat, and in compiling and maintaining a data base of natural resource information relating to the land. Future plans of management could include a program of works to be undertaken.

The Plan does not provide for significant development works, and any major developments are expected to require the preparation of a specific Plan of Management to authorise the works on the land on which they are proposed.

Review of Plan

The Plan applies for a period of three years concluding at the end of December 2001.

The Plan is to be reviewed prior to the end of the period during which the Plan applies, and an updated Plan will be adopted by the Trust. The review will ensure that additional background information is included in the updated Plan, including details of expenditure and works undertaken.

Definition of Terms Used

(See concepts)

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References

General References

Buchanan, R A (1989) Bush Regeneration: Recovering Australian Landscapes, TAFE

Ku-ring-gai Municipal council (1997) Bushcare Site Assessment Guidelines, Parks and Landscape Services

Nature Conservation council of NSW (1994) Bushland in our Cities and Suburbs: Part 2 Making Bush Regeneration Work, Proceedings of a Seminar held on 22 and 23 October 1993

NSW Department of Planning (1991) Urban Bushland Management Guidelines

NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, 1997, Urban Bushland Biodiversity Survey of Western Sydney

Baulkham Hills Shire council References

Baulkham Hills Shire council (1989) Excelsior Reserve Plan of Management : Volume 1 Main Recommendations, Volume 2 Issue Papers

Baulkham Hills Shire council (1991) Development Control Plan No 8 - Open Space

Baulkham Hills Shire council (1991) Development Control Plan No 107 - Landscaping

Baulkham Hills Shire council (1996) Bushland Generic Plan of Management . Management Strategy and Action Plan

Baulkham Hills Shire council (1996) Drainage Open Space Generic Plan of Management . Management Strategy and Action Plan

Blacktown City council References

Blacktown City council (1996) Bushland Plan of Management , Community Services Directorate

Blacktown City council (1996) Creeklines and Drainage Areas Plan of Management , Community Services Directorate

Blacktown City council (1997) Guidelines for Developers and Consultants - Threatened Species Conservation Matters within the City of Blacktown, Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

Parramatta City council References

Parramatta City council (1996) : Parramatta Tree Management Policy

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Attachments

Maps showing vegetation types and management zones, conservation status are attached in Part 6.

Ecological communities, species lists and descriptions of significant remnants are attached in the Appendix 1 and 2.

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