The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is seeking feedback on its draft technical guidance for those conducting environmental impact assessments on subterranean fauna.
In a statement, the EPA said consolidation and revision of its guidance in the area was required to align survey effort, methods and analysis with contemporary practices in Western Australia.
“It is also needed to outline the EPA’s expectations for environmental impact assessment surveys and to provide clarity for industry and consultants,” the Authority said.
Key changes in the revised guidance included an alignment of content, structure, format and terminology with contemporary EPA guidance; increased numbers of recommended survey phases to better inform impact assessment for subterranean fauna; and reduced prescription around sampling effort for detailed surveys.
Also in the revised guidelines were a greater emphasis on habitat connectivity; updated information on data standards and reporting; and updated survey techniques consistent with contemporary practices.
“The EPA is seeking your views and feedback associated with revision of its draft technical guidance.
“In particular, the EPA is seeking feedback on the new habitat assessment and updated survey techniques sections,” it said.
“In addition, where you have data to support variations to the survey techniques and effort recommended, the EPA would welcome this feedback as part of your submission.”
The closing date for submissions is 15 July and the 32-page draft Technical Guidance – Subterranean Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment can be accessed at this PS News link.
