Project Ecologist
pre-clearing and clearing Services
What is a Pre-Clearing Survey?
A Preclearing Survey is an environmental assessment carried out prior to the removal of any vegetation or modification to the environment involved in a development. It involves the identification and marking of Hollow-bearing Trees, Threatened or Endangered Flora and Fauna, Priority Weed Species, and Microhabitats.
A Preclearing Survey generally involves the following:
Identifying all locations of trees, habitat features (hollow-bearing trees, logs and existing nest boxes) and any other plants which have been marked or otherwise identified for preservation;
Inspecting bridges and/or culverts prior to demolition for the presence of native fauna;
Inspect dams and other aquatic habitats as well as the surrounding habitat prior to de-watering for the presence of aquatic fauna including frogs, turtles and eels;
Identifying the presence or evidence of the presence (including fresh scats, scratches and remains of prey) of fauna, including threatened species;
Identifying the presence of any threatened raptor (bird of prey) nests
Identifying Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs), delineating areas within and outside of the study area; and
Marking all hollow-bearing trees, potential hollow-bearing trees, logs, nest boxes, and all other fauna containing habitat trees, including trees with nests, dreys, and termitaria likely to be occupied by fauna.
Pre-Clearing Survey Report
A Preclearing Survey Report is completed following the Preclearing Survey. This report outlines all of the findings of the survey including:
Description of the presence of threatened flora species;
Description of the presence or evidence of fauna species, including threatened fauna species;
Recommended actions to avoid the potential for harm to any fauna during clearing, including protocols for staged clearing of vegetation, safe tree felling techniques, etc.
Measures to avoid disturbance to surrounding vegetation during clearance works;
Measures to avoid the spread of weeds and pathogens; and
Locations of habitat features marked during the Preclearing Survey.
Clearing Supervision | Spotter Catcher
During the clearing of vegetation, a Project Ecologist is likely required to supervise and manage any fauna that may be present. This supervision can be carried out for hollow-bearing trees, or for the clearing of all vegetation. If any fauna is encountered, the fauna will be checked for any injuries, and if deemed suitable, will be relocated elsewhere on site, or in the nearby area. If the fauna is injured or unsuited for release it will be taken to an appropriately licensed wildlife carer or veterinarian for care.
Post-Clearing Report
After clearing is complete, Ecologists will provide a Post-clearing Report detailing the results of surveys, fauna rescues, and any fauna injury. This report details:
The name and qualifications of the ecologist or wildlife carer present during clearing;
An assessment of the habitat and handling of fauna;
Information on clearing operations, dates, procedures, areas;
Live animal sightings, captures, any releases or injured/shocked wildlife;
Any dead animals located;
Photographs of rescued fauna; and
May also include a recommendations section.
Narla Environmental is one of the most experienced Project Ecologists in Sydney. We are fully licensed and qualified to deliver all of the Project Ecologist services required for your development in Sydney, Newcastle/Hunter Valley, Central Coast, Illawarra, Southern Highlands, or regional New South Wales.
Through provision of high quality Project Ecologist services, we have helped multiple development projects meet their approval and compliance obligations. We service all sectors and development types from urban DA through to State Significant Development (SSD) Mines, Quarries and Residential Estates and State Significant Infrastructure (SSI) Projects such as Road and Rail Projects.
Narla take pride in providing the outcomes our clients need without unnecessary additional costs. We help your development strike the balance between environmental sustainability and progress in order to meet the requirements and obligations of the relevant regulatory authority, whether it is a Local Council, the NSW Department of Planning, the Commonwealth Government or anyone in between.
Workplace Health and Safety
Workplace health and safety is especially important for each and every employee at Narla Environmental. Project Ecologist services are always accompanied by a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS), ensuring occupational health and safety is maintained throughout.
Certifications
Our team is well-trained and fully certified in the following: First Aid, Chainsaw, EWP, Working at Heights, White Cards, RIW cards, 4WD, BAM accreditation. With Mine-Spec Vehicles, we are ready for any job.
Services we provide:
Pre-Clearing and Tree Removal Ecological Surveys
Marking of Habitat and Hollow-bearing Trees
Tree and Vegetation Clearing & Ecological Supervision
Ecological Monitoring
We service the whole of New South Wales, including Greater Sydney, Western Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle, Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, Wollongong and Illawarra, Southern Highlands, Eurobodalla, Shoalhaven, Port Macquarie, North Coast, Central West and the rest of regional New South Wales.
contact narla for a free quote
02 9986 1295 or reception@narla.com.au