Referrals Gateway
Environment Assessment Branch
Department of the Environment
GPO Box 787
Canberra ACT 2601
email: epbc.referrals@environment.gov.au

Dear Sir/Madam

Molonglo 3 water supply pipeline, ACT

Referral no: 2017/8061

Friends of Grasslands (FOG) is a community group dedicated to the conservation of natural temperate grassy ecosystems in south-eastern Australia, included related fauna species. FOG advocates, educates and advises on matters to do with the conservation of grassy ecosystems, and carries out surveys and other on-ground work. FOG is based in Canberra and its members include professional scientists, landowners, land managers and interested members of the public.

In regard to the EPBC referral concerning the component of this pipeline from Weetangera reservoir to William Hovell Drive through Pinnacle Nature Reserve, FOG is aware that there has been extensive and detailed consultation with ACT Government and with Friends of The Pinnacle. While we are concerned that such an action is being undertaken within the Reserve system, we understand that impact will be minimized, as the preferred route has less natural vegetation present and the area that will be disturbed will be limited by containment fencing.

We endorse the proposals for replanting with native species indigenous to the site and the opportunity for improving native habitat. Past experience has shown that such planting requires adequate preparation of the site, choice of species and methods of planting for it to successfully provide good native cover.

We support the proposal as the option of least impact, provided that follow-up treatment is undertaken for some years to remove weeds that will inevitably invade and replanting where revegetation has not been successful.

Yours sincerely

 

Sarah Sharp
Advocacy Coordinator

23 October 2017