Wrightson Group Management Plan

Page 1

Sustainable Landowners Group Management Plan


SLG

GROUP MANAGEMENT PLAN

Rhys Millar 184 High Street Private Bag 1966 DUNEDIN input from

landscape planners Marokapara 351 Manchester Street Otautahi CHRISTCHURCH www.lucas-associates.co.nz May 2004


Preface:

This manual is specifically to assist members of Wrightson’s Forestry Services’ Sustainable Landowners Group achieve sustainable land management and achieve FSC certification. This SLG Group Management Plan provides management plan outlines and templates for members to implement. It provides practical guidance for SLG members to achieve the objectives and address the issues identified in the SLG Management Handbook. The first (bound) handbook, the SLG Management Handbook, outlined what is sought - the objectives and issues that need to be addressed in sustainable land management. This second handbook, the SLG Group Management Plan (GMP), addresses the how. The two handbooks are structured to be complementary, with parallel topics. The different resource issues are addressed and approaches outlined for land managers to address each. Means of monitoring are provided for landowners to identify and record progress toward sustainable management. To keep up with changes in information, regulations, technology and aspirations, the GMP will evolve over time. As a ring-bound document, sections can be updated, replaced and added as and when appropriate. Member’s feedback is always welcome, to assist with ongoing refinements and improvements.

Environmental Solutions Wrightson Forestry Services Private Bag 1966 Dunedin Phone (03) 471 7461

Note Lucas Associates provided input to the Management Plan outlines and the presentation of the GMP. Lucas Associates have not been involved in defining specific requirements such as for certification.

GMP Introduction

May 2004


Introduction

The Group Management Plan is to be used in conjunction with the SLG Management Handbook, a separate bound document. The Group Management Plan contains templates and management plan outlines that will help landowners fulfill their sustainable management objectives, and help them gain FSC certification. •

The SLG Management Handbook outlines the concept of sustainable land management recognition - What & Why.

This Group Management Plan, outlines How.

The SLG Management Handbook consists of four parts: Part One contains information about the Sustainable Landowners Group and the benefits of being part of this SLG. It also contains the philosophy of the SLG, the goal-setting process and the objectives of the group. Part Two discusses the concept of sustainability, and the impetus behind sustainable land management and well managed plantations. Forest Stewardship Council is also outlined. Part Three discusses the requirements for responsible environmental management that are part of sustainable land management, and details the SLG objectives and management plan that capture these to fulfil the requirements of FSC certification. Part Four discusses social and cultural sustainability requirements. This Group Management Plan consists of six parts: Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four Part Five Part Six

GMP Introduction

Policy Management requirements Templates Monitoring Audit form Practice guides

May 2004


Acronyms / Jargon

GMP Introduction

GMP

The Group Management Plan of the SLG

FSC

Forest Stewardship Council, an international certiďŹ cation system for well-managed forests. Here referring to plantation forestry production only, and not natural harvest from forests.

SLG

Sustainable Landowners Group (including Group Manager, Group Members, and CertiďŹ ed Group Members)

WFS

Wrightson Forestry Services

May 2004


CONTENTS Part One:

Policy and Principles

1.1 1.2 1.3

Sustainable landowners group environmental policy About FSC and certification The FSC Principles and Criteria

1 2 3

Part Two:

Management Requirements 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 2.10 2.11 2.12

Landscape Management Requirements Biodiversity Management Requirements Water Management Requirements Soil Management Requirements Weed and Pest Management Requirements Chemical Management Requirements Community Requirements Employment Requirements Plantation Forest Requirements Administration Requirements Monitoring and Assessment Requirements Audit Requirements

Part Three:

Templates index

Part Four

Monitoring templates index

Part Five

Audit form index

Part Six

Best Management Practice index

2/3 2/15 2/30 2/35 2/36 2/48 2/53 2/62 2/67 2/72 2/73 2/75

3/2

4/2

5/2

6/2

Appendices • Appendix 1 SLG Fire Plan • Appendix 2 SLG Legal requirements • Appendix 3 SLG Health and Safety

GMP Introduction

May 2004


GMP PART 1: Policies and Principles

May 2004


Part One 1.1

SUSTAINABLE LANDOWNERS GROUP ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

Members of the WFS Sustainable Landowners Group are committed to Sustainable Land Management, and as such, to the Principles and Criteria of FSC. By nurturing the environment on which social and economic needs are based, we will ensure that our forest management objectives are met. To fulfil this Policy we need to: • • • •

Nurture the ecosystem, maintain its ecological and productive values and capabilities; Use resources efficiently, and continually minimise/avoid the ecological and landscape impact of our operations; Grow our businesses by being supportive of local communities, stakeholders and markets; Provide a safe and healthy working environment for clients, staff and contractors.

We will continually improve our environmental performance by regularly assessing how we are achieving our environmental objectives. We will communicate our Environmental Policy to all stakeholders and raise awareness of environmental matters. By fulfilling this Environmental Policy we will contribute to a sustainable future for all. This policy will be made available to the public, through the communication channels discussed in this Manual. All contractors and staff will receive a copy of the policy in their contractual agreement. This policy will be reviewed bi-annually, and updated as and when required.

GMP PART 1: Policies and Principles

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1.2

About FSC and certification (adapted from www.fscoax.org) Forest Certification is the process by which the performance of on-the-ground forestry operations are assessed against a predetermined set of standards. Forest certification is applied to the management of a specific, defined forest area. All forest products carrying the FSC logo have been independently certified as coming from ‘forests’ that meet the internationally recognised Principles and Criteria of forest stewardship. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has developed an international standard for forest management certification, called the Principles and Criteria (P&C) (see 1.3). The requirements of the FSC P&C concern the environmental, social and economic impacts of forest management. Compliance with the requirements is assessed by certification bodies. National standards are developed that implement the FSC P&C at a local level. These standards are developed by groups specific to that country, who work to achieve consensus amongst the wide range of people and organisations involved in forest management and conservation in each part of the world. In Aotearoa New Zealand there is currently a National Initiative underway to develop standards. The Forest Stewardship Council is an international non-profit organisation founded in 1993 to support environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests. It is an association of members consisting of a diverse group of representatives from environmental and social groups, the timber trade and the forestry profession, indigenous people’s organisations, community forestry groups and forest product certification organisations from around the world. Membership is open to all who are involved in forestry or forest products and share its aims and objectives. An executive director and staff run FSC on a day-to-day basis from the head office in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is controlled by an elected board, which consists of people from industry, conservation groups, indigenous people’s representatives and others.

GMP PART 1: Policies and Principles

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1.3

The FSC Principles and Criteria PRINCIPLE #1: COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND FSC PRINCIPLES Forest management shall respect all applicable laws of the country in which they occur, and international treaties and agreements to which the country is a signatory, and comply with all FSC Principles and Criteria PRINCIPLE #2: TENURE AND USE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Long-term tenure and use rights to the land and forest resources shall be clearly defined, documented and legally established. PRINCIPLE # 3: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ RIGHTS The legal and customary rights of indigenous peoples to own, use and manage their lands, territories, and resources shall be recognised and respected. PRINCIPLE # 4: COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND WORKER’S RIGHTS Forest management operations shall maintain or enhance the long-term social and economic well being of forest workers and local communities. PRINCIPLE #5: BENEFITS FROM THE FOREST Forest management operations shall encourage the efficient use of the forest’s multiple products and services to ensure economic viability and a wide range of environmental and social benefits. PRINCIPLE # 6: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Forest management shall conserve biological diversity and its associated values, water resources, soils, and unique and fragile ecosystems and landscapes, and, by so doing, maintain the ecological functions and the integrity of the forest. PRINCIPLE # 7: MANAGEMENT PLAN A management plan - appropriate to the scale and intensity of the operations - shall be written, implemented, and kept up to date. The long term objectives of management, and the means of achieving them, shall be clearly stated. PRINCIPLE # 8: MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT Monitoring shall be conducted - appropriate to the scale and intensity of forest management - to assess the condition of the forest, yields of forest products, chain of custody, management activities and their social and environmental impacts PRINCIPLE # 9: MAINTENANCE OF HIGH CONSERVATION VALUE FORESTS Management activities in high conservation value forests shall maintain or enhance the attributes which define such forests. Decisions regarding high conservation value forests shall always be considered in the context of a precautionary approach. PRINCIPLE #10: PLANTATIONS Plantations shall be planned and managed in accordance with Principles and Criteria 1 - 9, and Principle 10 and its Criteria. While plantations can provide an array of social and economic benefits, and can contribute to satisfying the world’s needs for forest products, they should complement the management of, reduce pressures on, and promote the restoration and conservation of natural forests.

GMP PART 1: Policies and Principles

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Part Two:

Management Requirements


Module 1: Landscape Requirements

Page

Management Requirement Modules: Module 1

Module 2

Module 3

Module 4

Module 5

Module 6 Module 7

Module 8

Module 9 Module 10

Module 11

Module 12

2.1 Landscape Management Requirements

2/3

2.2 Biodiversity Management Requirements

2/15

2.3 Water Management Requirements

2/30

2.4 Soil Management Requirements

2/35

2.5 Weed & Pest Management Requirements

2/36

2.6 Chemical Management Requirements

2/48

2.7 Community Requirements

2/53

2.8 Employment Requirements

2/62

2.9 Plantation Management Requirements

2/67

2.10 Administration Requirements

2/72

2.11 Monitoring & Assessment Requirements

2/73

2.12 Audit Requirements

2/75

Part Two involves a series of 12 modules. Each module includes speciďŹ c practical requirements to be addressed to provide assurance of sustainable land management. To implement each Module, procedures are outlined and included as Templates in Part 4. For background information for each module refer back to the SLG Management Handbook, Part 3.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

2.1

Landscape Management Requirements

2.1.1

Introduction Landscape involves the expression of the complexities of nature as well as the intertwined layers of culture. Sustainable management requires that the natural and cultural distinctiveness of local landscapes be sustained. That is, sustaining the spatial and dynamic character of the local landscape, as well as the community connections intertwined within it. The Environmental Sustainability Modules of the SLG Management Handbook began by outlining an approach to responsible Landscape Management (Part Three, 3.1, pages 3/3 to 3/12). Following on from this, some guidance is provided to undertake or at least develop a brief to meet the landscape requirements of sustainable land management. Whilst the landscape can be complex and interwoven, it assists to analyse the various contributions, the underlying land, the vegetation layer, and the water layer as base ingredients. Their spatial relationships need also to be examined.

2.2.2

The Land Beneath To plan for change the landscape needs to be carefully assessed. Assessment needs to consider the physical land as well as people’s relationship with it. It is important to read the site together with its context, particularly in relation to the adjoining lands and the rest of the catchment. Assessing the landscape thus involves attempting to understand something of the layers of nature and layers of culture that together make that place.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

As a preliminary to developing a plan, annotate topographic maps, aerial and oblique photographs, and plans, to identify the layers of nature in a place. The underlying variation in the land from different rock types, different soil types, different drainage and aspect. It is not enough to just read the land surface and the vegetative cover that currently exists. First “read� beneath the surface.

Access databases and ďŹ nd what information is available for the lands you are interested in, and their surrounds, their context, and that upstream. Use or develop a typology to recognise different areas of land with similar characteristics. You can begin to build up a pattern of the raw land and its diversity.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

What type(s) of country are you involved with?

Eastern downlands and foothills landscape

Southern uplands and mountains landscape

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

Northern dissected landscape

Southern inland glaciated

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

2.1.3 Vegetative Blanket Once the underlayers are clearly identified and demonstrated on maps, model drawings and photographs, then look at the vegetative cover patterns that overlie these lands. Map existing vegetation cover onto maps and photographs. Identify the main cover as well as the odd contrasting pockets – perhaps a wee forest remnant within a pastoral area. Perhaps a hill or terrace that still supports some tussock grassland. Are some areas regenerating back into indigenous cover, as shrubland or secondary forest.

Whilst there may not be many types of vegetation, or the patterns may be simplistic or unrelated to the underlying land, it may be possible to identify relationships between vegetation type and underlying land type. You might be able to match remnant type with soil type, drainage, slope and aspect. It is important to think beyond the little remnant and get an image of the full swathes of the extent of that vegetation type in the past. It is useful to undertake an exercise in reconstructing the vegetation of the past – on paper at least! You may find there are publications that assist with this. Access any ecological data bases for the area or district, (McEwen). There may be reports on local surveys to identify significant indigenous vegetation and habitat. The LENZ (Land Environments of New Zealand)1. Also explore historic records and knowledge. Then try to match information known for one site with areas that have long been cleared and developed. A pattern of historic vegetation types might be able to be mapped or drawn onto aerial photographs. This patterning might help in planning for landuse change. Analyse the condition of existing vegetation under current management. Are stock having an effect? Are there edge effects occurring from exposure or stock? Identify vegetation of value for production or for protection and record on an aerial photograph. Assess the processes occurring that result in areas of vegetation changing to another type of vegetation. Note whether areas of pasture are becoming shrubland; whether wetland communities are diminishing, or where wetland indicator plants (such as rushes) are persistently occurring.

1

“Land Environments of New Zealand” and the “Technical Guide” 2003. Ministry for the Environment and

Landcare Research. David Bateman. Auckland.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

To plan the move to a richer landscape, one planning technique involves firstly seeking to understand “what nature intended” for that place - the type of forest or grassland ecosystem that would occur there naturally if there wasn’t intervention. Getting an idea of the nature of the past, both pre-people and pre-European, will help understand something of the natural potential of the place. Knowing what types of vegetation probably existed, and what caused the changes that lead to the vegetation of today, provides useful information for exploring options for future vegetation. Provide friendly data for the people involved to understand the nature of a place. Habitat values both on-site and beyond, and any indication of trends in their expansion or reduction, need to be identified. Special niches, linkages and corridors need to be noted. Identify whether there are any sites or values of scientific interest, or of identified community interest through public planning processes. By identifying the underlying ecosystems, and something of their dynamics - the seral stages, the conditions for establishment, the vulnerability - will provide information for the community of interest to plan for potential restoration opportunities.

2.1.4

The Water Layer: Develop another set of maps and images related to the waterways and wetlands, the “lifeblood” through the lands. Map the catchments through delineating watersheds, the line of separation for water flowing to different streams. Catchments can be identified at different scales, with sub-catchments within main catchments. Finer scale mapping can be useful as catchments are possible planning and management units. The drier ridgeline around and defining a catchment is in New Zealand known as the watershed. It is a useful natural management boundary. This mapping may be the basis for your overall management plan.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

Identify the watersheds, and the waterways and wetlands within each of the catchments. Their character, their naturalness and health needs to be identified. Are they eroding? Have drainage works been undertaken? Has there been a management programme? Note the associated landuses and any effects that may be occurring, or to which the waterway or wetland might be vulnerable. Note the vegetated state of the waterways and wetlands, and some idea of the dynamics, such as pest weed invasions. Note quality waterway and wetland habitat. vegetation and land pattern...

water patterns

possibilities when the two are combined

Explore the relationships in the patterns of this water layer of information with the land and vegetation map layers. Pattern analysis is a useful planning tool.

2.1.5

Spatial Character Identify the spatial character and patterns of the landscape. Recognise important experiential values. Particular areas with a valued character. Special places. Valued views. Special features. Analyse contributors to what is valued. Also note what the values would be vulnerable to. Could they be blocked or screened. Analyse the visual landscape to ensure it’s attributes are identified.

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2.1.6

Heritage & Social Search out the stories in that land. Identify natural or cultural heritage values and features. Map and describe these. Note any characteristics that assist or deter their appreciation. Note associations with values and features elsewhere, on or off the property.

2.1.7

Activity & Infrastructure Layer Annotate a map layer to show how a place is used, how it is accessed - stock routes and vehicle routes. What areas are machine accessible and those with limitations. Note: Land management regimes that have been or are undertaken. Limitations also need to be identified. Identify the infrastructure already established and of value such as roading, bridging, fencing, power reticulation, water reticulation and buildings.

2.1.8

Statutory Layer Examine the relevant Regional and District policy and plan documents to gain an understanding of the desired management for your lands and waters. There may be helpful information too in these or their background documents. Explore whether the local landscape has been identified as of significance in these public documents. If it has, particular care in landuse change is desirable. If not identified, this does not mean there is no interest in that landscape, just that no particular landscape values have been formally recognised. From these documents, there may be limitations on activities that need to be understood, such as vegetation clearance, earthworks, riparian activity and forestry plantings. Long Term Local Community Plans are being developed by each community. These may involve a vision for your landscape and area which will direct Council activities. The Vision may be supportive of your sustainable land management activities.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

look for overall land systems to guide change, rather than on a farm by farm basis, as suggested in this sketch

2.1.9

Wider Input Into Planning Having gathered the base information on understanding the place, it may be appropriate to involve a wider community of interest, perhaps neighbours and local interest groups, the SLG, to work through the information base and ensure the fundamentals for planning land use change are known and have been assembled. It is preferable to encourage the community of interest to input their knowledge and understanding. Putting together an assessment involves mapping the lands on aerial and oblique photographs and topographic maps to identify site diversity and patterning in terms of landform, soils, past and present vegetation, hydrology/drainage, and also for land use, productivity and amenity. Identify areas that have productivity limitations.

2.1.10

Identify Community Values A brief exercise can be undertaken to identify the values. Rather than planning by experts and owners alone: • Encourage the community of interest to articulate what is valued, what is important and special about a place - perhaps particular wildlife, vegetation, outcrops or waterfalls. • Identify the physical, the utility, the historic, the spatial and other amenity values such as key views and vistas. • Seek to identify consensus on what is important, whilst recognising that values will have different weightings for everyone and will change.

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2.1.11

Identify Perceived Issues •

• •

2.1.12

Have the community of interest articulate the issues as they perceive them - eg. that stream health may be threatened; a visually dominant monoculture may emerge; indigenousness may be scarcely evident. Identify the common ground, a consensus on what is of real concern - but don’t ignore minority concerns. Investigate the extent, triggers, implications and seriousness of these issues for resource sustainability, including for sustaining utility, landscape and amenity values. Where concerns appear unfounded, provide additional information and work through with the community perceived concerns and seek resolution.

Articulate Their Vision •

• •

Have the community of interest explore opportunities for the land - perhaps, to sustain the tui and the rata in the catchment; to have highly indigenous stream corridors; to maintain shrubland feeding areas for birds; to provide adequate buffers. Ensure technical and design assistance is available to encourage constructive and creative exploration of solutions and opportunities. Encourage the community to articulate their conceptual vision and seek a consensus on directions.

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

2.1.13

Concept Plan Development • • • • • •

• •

Pool the information; Have technical and design input to help you develop practical development and management plans that recognise the nature and culture of the place; Recognise what is valued; Address the issues; Explore the visions, the potential core areas and linkages for nature. Identify the potential as well as the problems for restoration; Ensure a diversity of natural values will be protected and/or restored - not all steep dark faces, that have the thinner soils, limited species ranges and of little appeal to birds in winter; Provide a concept (quickly) that is friendly and easy to read, use and identify with; Seek an interactive and/or iterative process to develop consensus in order to produce the community of interest’s plan, not just the expert’s plan;

• • • •

• • • •

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Identify opportunities for trialing and staging new management styles; Ensure the style of plan responds to local nuances, language, landscape, etc; Develop an action plan or programme and consider allocating tasks; Provide further guidance for developing and managing areas and stages over time, or for reviewing directions; Seek to ensure their concept plan is readily available and regularly referred to - a living document; Build a sustainable new landscape, but in doing that ensure land management policy; protects significant natural landscape values; protect significant historical and cultural landscape values; protect natural landscape features; enhance and respond to the natural diversity in the land;

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Module 1: Landscape Requirements

Summary of requirements for 2.1 • • • • • • •

Map existing vegetation on a map or photo Identify the various vegetation characteristics Identify the underlying ecosystems – what existed historically, and connections with the current use. Map the waterways Map special places; recreational spaces; heritage places On a separate map overlay, show the existing infrastructure – roads, tracks, buildings, fie ponds, power lines etc On a third map, highlight perceived issues within the landscape. (Identify potential projects that will require resources). Then begin to roughly map potential land use patterns, linkages and opportunities. Include community issues and visions for the landscape.

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Module 2: Biodiversity Requirements

2.2

Biodiversity Management Requirements

2.2.1

Background The importance of integrating the productive requirements of the land with the need to conserve and enhance native biodiversity can not be overstated. The text in Part Three, 3.2, of the SLG Management Handbook explains the importance of biodiversity, and the need to take a landscape based rather than a paddock based approach to biodiversity management. This involves protecting the remnant indigenous ecosystems, enhancing those ecosystems that are damaged or vulnerable, and restoring the connections between these ecosystems. Rural landowners have an extremely good opportunity to enhance indigenous ecosystems in their communities, by using linkages on their farms. This may include shelterbelts, water races and especially waterways. The necessity for the land to provide a productive return requires landowners to think carefully about how to integrate the management of indigenous biodiversity with the main productive requirements of the property.

Reserves have generally been the most obvious tool for conserving indigenous biodiversity. Reserves are a very important tool for nature conservation, but landowners need to look for other approaches to nature conservation on the land (Norton, 2000). The dramatic changes that have occurred in New Zealand’s landscape provide an indication as to what are realistic goals when incorporating indigenous biodiversity into the landscape management. Sustainable Landowner Group Members should plan to incorporate indigenous biodiversity into their landscapes in the following ways:

1.

Restoration of existing sites; and maintaining the condition of “intact” sites

2.

Improving the connectivity of existing sites, through increased habitat area (corridors, along waterways, shelterbelts or marginal regenerating pasture land).

3.

Using new plantings of indigenous forests for “productive” purposes (timber, alternative produce)

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4.

Using new plantings of indigenous forests as management tools that have traditionally been exotic plantings (eg windbreaks, riparian management, soil stability)

Crucial to this approach is the need to take a landscape-based approach. The key feature is that “it considers native biodiversity conservation at the landscape scale rather than at the scale of a forest stand or a paddock and thus removes the direct conflict between protection and production at any given site” (Norton, 2000). By fixing some of the components in the landscape (such as remnant forest and exotic plantation stands) the other components can be arranged to fit the management goals (eg. shelter for stock, and corridor link from remnant forest to plantation)

2.2.2

SLG RULE RELATING TO THE BIODIVERSITY MODULE Indigenous Forest conversion to plantations or non-forest land shall not occur. For the purposes of this rule, an indigenous tree species is defined as any woody plant which ultimately forms part of the canopy of a naturally occurring forest, or any indigenous tree species that attains a diameter at breast height of 30cm or greater. SLG Requirement 2.2.2 Map on the aerial photo those areas currently in indigenous vegetation Background The FSC Principles and Criteria state that “Representative Samples of existing ecosystems within the landscape shall be protected in their natural state, and recorded on maps. . .” Mapping is a very good tool for planning and managing operations. It is essential that Members have a valid basis for classifying the indigenous vegetation areas. The SLG reserve classifications provide this basis and allow for the incorporation of indigenous forest into the productive landscape. The FSC criteria state that “the design and layout of plantations should promote the protection, restoration and conservation of natural forests . . . Wildlife corridors, streamside zones and a mosiac of stands of different ages and rotation periods, shall be used in the layout. . . “ The use of aerial photos will greatly aid in successful land management planning. Summary of requirements for 2.2.2 Map on an aerial photo those areas currently in indigenous vegetation 1. Areas marked on maps should be categorised into one of the SLG Reserve Classification categories (as outlined on page 2/3). 2. Each area of similar ecosystem type should be given a 2 digit number For example, there are three blocks of Virgin forest on the propertynumber these Virg01; Virg02; Virg03.

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Module 2: Biodiversity Requirements

SLG Requirement 2.2.3 Survey of the indigenous reserve areas mapped in 2.2.2. Assess the health and threats to those reserve areas. Allocate each Reserve a Reserves Classification and Protection rating. Background One of the SLG biodiversity goals is to establish and protect sufficient natural areas to enable the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity and function. To do this it is necessary to establish what indigenous forest currently exists, and what (if any) threats there may be to the healthy functioning and enhancement of these ecosystems. Assessing ecological values is a difficult process, as it involves so many variables. Often the most seemingly degraded, scrappy piece of indigenous forest can hold a valuable species. It is important that Members carry out the surveillance check to provide direction to future management and planning. Template SLG 2.2.3a, together with the following information, should be used as a guide to assessing each indigenous ecosystem on your property. Reserves that have a dual purpose, such as providing for shelter, should be recorded as such. Threats to indigenous forest: Threats to remaining forest remnants include: • Stock damage resulting from ineffective or absent boundary fencing • Possums • Browsing by deer, goats and feral sheep • Fire • Weed encroachment • Continued clearance for agriculture, firewood and forestry • Lack of boundary definition • Spread of adventive species eg. Old mans beard • Wilding exotic trees

The SLG Reserves Classification Index outlines the different classification categories to be allocated to each indigenous reserve area within the landscape: VIRGIN FOREST:Virgin forest is in its original composition and structure, and is unaltered by any form of human disturbance. SECOND GROWTH FOREST: Second growth forest has regenerated after a historical disturbance such as logging or clearance. It is a growing indigenous forest. SCRUB FOREST:Early in the successional stages of forest establishment. Limited species variability and limited tree size. Typically manuka or kanuka. TUSSOCK: Areas that are predominantly in indigenous tussock. WETLAND: Wetlands are generally areas of freestanding water, such as in a swamp or pond. Wetlands are riparian waterway areas. RIPARIAN ZONE:The riparian zone is the piece of land specifically designated for the protection of the waterway. It includes the waterway itself. ALPINE: Alpine ecosystems exist above the tree line in indigenous forests. These are generally very marked transition zones, where the snow will lie over winter months. SAND: Sand country, typical of a lot of New Zealand coastal ecosystems.

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The SLG Protection Index: Members need to use this index when rating the importance of the indigenous reserves on their property. A targeted approach seeks to focus on the “High Value” indigenous ecosystems, species and habitats. Implicit in this approach is the belief that some areas, habitats or populations are more valuable than others. Where the “High Value” ecosystems don’t exist, then a comprehensive approach shall be taken. A comprehensive approach makes no distinction between types of indigenous vegetation; all areas, habitats and populations have equal values. The goal is to sustain them. The Protection Index is applied to both flora and fauna. All existing indigenous vegetation is classified as significant, as it will have some value in promoting ecological values within the landscape. Depending on the significance of the indigenous forest vegetation, or the habitat that it may provide for significant species, it shall receive a ranking of between 1 and 3. If exotic vegetation is providing habitat for significant species, then it too requires a protection ranking. Habitat Protection rating is quite subjective, especially as the habitat being noted is often the only remaining indigenous habitat in the immediate landscape. Conservation Biology principles are applied to the rating system, based on the following: 1. 2.

3. 4. 5. 6.

High Priority is given to those indigenous areas that are poorly represented within the local region. Representativeness is the primary selection criteria. High Priority is given to those indigenous areas that have high ecological value; the presence of rare or uncommon plant and animal species; due to the richness of species; diversity of species or unaltered status. High Priority is given to those indigenous areas that provide habitat to rare and threatened species. High Priority is given to those areas that are significant in size. The possible future potential of the area needs consideration, as does; The function of the area in relation to the wider landscape. For example, from a habitat perspective it may be poor, but it may provide a vital role as a corridor between two important areas.

The protection rating also applies to any individual species concerned. All species in the New Zealand Threat Classification System lists (www.doc.govt.nz/publications) that are classified as significant will receive a protection rating, corresponding to the rating given to it by DoC.

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Module 2: Biodiversity Requirements

The SLG Protection Index rating’s are as follows: Protection One: Habitats and species are of very high ecological value. They may be susceptible to landowners operations, and as such, high levels of management action are required. For example, a Protection One area located next to plantation forest may require some of the plantation forest to be retired from production following the planned harvest, to create a buffer zone that will ensure the conservation of ecological values. More immediate management requirements may include fencing, weed and pest control and intensive forest monitoring. Protection Two: Habitats and species of high ecological value. They may be susceptible to landowners operations, and as such, management action may be required. For example, a Protection Two area located next to plantation forest may mean that during the harvesting operation, it is necessary to employ specific harvest management techniques to minimise the risk and level of damage to ecological values. Other management techniques may include the creation and protection of riparian zones, wildlife corridors and the planting of more diverse species. Pest and weed management, and fencing off stock are more immediate management requirements. Protection Three: Habitats and species of low-moderate ecological value. Their value in the wider landscape should be recognised and noted. It may be that these areas are important for linking more significant areas of habitat, or are protecting waterways. As such, they will still require management commitment.

A Protection Index system has been developed to prioritise the level of management commitment and resources. Habitats are rated as Protection one, two or three. Those Areas rated as Protection One should be given utmost priority when planning and managing the biodiversity of the area. Summary of requirements 2.2.3 Follow this guideline while using Template 2.2.3a. This shall be undertaken by walking a transect through each reserve area. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Describe the main indigenous species present and their classification, as per the SLG Reserve Classification Index (eg. second growth forest) Describe the condition of the indigenous forest/ecosystem, Page 2/3. Note any weeds or pests that are apparent. Are these having obvious effects on the indigenous forest? Does any grazing take place in the indigenous forest? Is the area fenced off? List any historical disturbance to the forest that you are aware of (eg. has been logged, burnt, grazed etc.) List the size of the area; aspect; approximate boundaries and areas of soillandform units (eg basins / slopes /terraces / moist / dry) Describe any microhabitats that exist (eg very humid in gully) Are there any features that make this forest significant (size, species composition, vulnerable species?) Assign a Protection Index rating to the indigenous forest, as above.

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A method to descrbe a habitat

Point Intercept Method of indigenous ecosystem description 1.

Run out a measuring tape on the set bearing. If used in conjunction with the quick plot, this tape will be 20m long.

2.

Record the ground cover, including the low stature vegetation <15cm high, (refer diagram page 2/7) which is covered by the width of the tape at each metre mark using appropriate standard classiďŹ cations, such as:

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Vegetation (V) any vegetation less than 15cm in height other than moss or ferns. Includes woody seedlings, herbaceous vegetation, and grasses. It does not include live tree roots and trunks. • Root (T) live tree roots • Moss (M) • Fern (F) any ferns less than 15cm in height • Leaf litter (L) including dead sticks <3cm in diameter • Wood (W) dead wood, branches and logs, >=3cm in diameter • Soil (S) bare exposed soil where the litter layer has been removed. • Rock (R) exposed bare rock or gravel. Only one classification can be recorded at each point Where Vegetation (V) or Fern (F) is present, also record the species. If you are unable to identify the species, record it by type of vegetation, that is, grass, fern, woody seedling or herb. If the measurement plot is being permanently marked, aluminium pegs can be placed at 5m intervals along the tape. This allows the tape to be laid out in the same location for remeasurement. •

3. 4.

5.

SLG Requirement 2.2.4 Determine the suitability of the reserve areas for legal protection. Background By legally protecting the indigenous reserves on your property, you are ensuring that future owners will not undo the efforts you have put into the management and enhancement of indigenous biodiversity. Not only do you ensure that your conservation efforts are preserved, but you greatly increase the likelihood of gaining funding from a conservation or sustainable management agency. There are a variety of legal protection options open to landowners. The following is a summary from “Protecting and Restoring our Natural Heritage,” DOC, 2001. Selling or gifting the land A variety of protection organisations may be interested in purchasing the land, or if gifted to them will generally pay the transaction costs. Areas gifted or purchased under the Reserves Act will be given the status of “Reserve” and need to be managed accordingly.

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Conservation Covenant A covenant is a legal agreement between the landholder and the covenanting agency outlining how the area’s natural values will be protected. The landowner retains ownership, with the covenant being registered against the title. This is binding on future owners. The landowner may receive financial assistance for fencing or weed and pest control, and technical advice. Often the covenanting agency will pay for the surveying and legal fees. The landowner may also be able to apply to the local authority for rates relief and for assistance to fund the covenant management requirements. The Department of Conservation, the Nature Heritage Fund, local authorities and the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust are sources of assistance with potential covenants under the Conservation Act, Reserves Act and QEII National Trust Act. Owners of Maori land can place areas under a Nga Whenua Rahui kawenata. Information on different protection options is appended. Other Protection Options Protected private land agreements, land exchanges and management agreements are all possible land protection. The Department of Conservation should usually be the first point of contact for these enquires. Summary of Requirements 2.2.4 Group Members who are interested in covenanting pieces of indigenous biodiversity should contact the WFS Group Manager for more information, or one of the agencies listed above. All correspondence should be recorded. and filed for future reference.

SLG Requirement 2.2.5 Identify any High Conservation Value Forests (HCV), or any threatened / endangered plant species. Incorporate this knowledge into the development of Management Plans for Indigenous Reserves. Background The New Zealand Plantation Forest Standards Technical Committee has agreed that: “High Conservation Value Forests” are a rare occurrence outside New Zealand’s established natural reserve system and are identified SNAs by the Department of Conservation through its Protected Natural Area Programme.” As such, if a landowner suspected that there may be a High Conservation Value Forest on their property, they should contact DoC. It is likely that DoC would know if such an important ecosystem was within the bounds of the property, or if any vulnerable or threatened species were in the locality. If a Protected Natural Area survey has been undertaken this can be used as a guide to determining if the forest is a HCV forest. If the RAP category is 3, then it should be considered to be a HCV reserve. Generally HCV forest will be rare, primary forests that are complete in their diversity and composition. Alternatively they could be habitat for rare / endangered bird species.

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If a HCV forest does exist within the property, then it will most likely be suitable for a covenant or land purchase. DoC should be used to obtain advice with potential options, and to develop a management plan, and monitoring plan. A very speciďŹ c, detailed monitoring plan will be necessary for HCV forests. It is highly likely that funding or resources will be available for the management of HCV forests. The primary management objective of HCV areas is for protection management of the ecosystem, or of the rare, threatened or endangered species present within the area. Other activities including recreation and hunting are only to be permitted if this primary management objective is not compromised. Likewise, activities such as roading and tracking are prohibited through these reserves, unless a full resource consent application is undertaken and approved. The assessment of effects of other activities needs to be carried out in developing management plans for the HCV reserves. Summary of Requirements for 2.2.5 The work completed in 2.2.2 - 2.2.4 will have given SLG members the knowledge and familiarity to develop management plans for the indigenous vegetation that currently exists on their properties. Template 2.2.5a (Part 3) provides an example of a management plan that Members can use for guidance. Members need to identify their management goals for their indigenous forests, and then set in place realisable targets to achieve these goals. Priority should be given to managing any areas that are high in conservation values. Development of management plans for high conservation value areas should be undertaken with help from Department of Conservation. SLG Requirement 2.2.6 Establish an indigenous forest monitoring plan for managed indigenous forest reserves. Background Indigenous forests are exposed to a wide range of threats, including animal pest and weeds, and human development. Monitoring is important because it identiďŹ es changes over time, and thus ensures management programmes are aligned to the requirements of the native forest . Monitoring also helps to identify any management requirements and assess the work that has been undertaken to date. By monitoring, Members will better identify what management is necessary to better manage the forest. The Monitoring undertaken will be based on the objectives of the management. It may be to see what effect fencing off the stand has been; or to monitor the effect of a possum trapping operation. The different types of monitoring can be broadly split into: 1 2 3

Surveillance monitoring - checking the forest to see what management is necessary. Conservation Result monitoring - checking to see what has come out of management undertaken in the forest. Operations Monitoring - checking to see the effectiveness of speciďŹ c operations (eg. kill rates).

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Goals should be decided before beginning the monitoring programme. Different methods for monitoring are applicable to different objectives. Once your goals are set you should contact the WFS Group Manager for help in establishing a monitoring programme. Whatever monitoring methods are used, they should be: • • •

as simple as possible, standardised, and, repeatable.

Indicators When monitoring it is important to select indicators that will provide an indication of the forest condition. For example, to measure the condition of the forest vegetation, we may use canopy cover and canopy condition as an indicator. Alternatively, we may want an indicator for the amount of pest damage in a forest. The likelihood of animal pests being present can be determined through chew marks, possum droppings and tracks. Indicators that can be used include the spread or incidence of weeds; damage caused by stock or pests; changes in regeneration after management has taken place; build up of forest litter; and build up of micro-habitat such as mosses and ferns. Sampling Monitoring a forest requires the forest to be sampled. Samples should always be representative of the area, covering the differences within the forest (eg. valley bottoms / ridges etc). Samples need to be easily located as they will be used time and again. GPS coordinates, map coordinates or distinguishable land features may be useful coordinates. Often a transect line is the best way to sample these areas.

Summary of Requirements for 2.2.6 Use Template 2.2.6a to establish a monitoring programme for the indigenous reserves outlined in Requirement 2.2.5.

SLG Requirement 2.2.7 Identify the bird, animal and other indigenous species present. Identify any threatened or endangered species. Begin bird monitoring. Background The relationship between flora (plants) and fauna (animals) is an extremely important one. Birds are often valuable indicators of the wider condition of the forest, such as the maintenance of diversity of fruiting and flowering species. Generally the state of the forest will mirror the state of the bird life and vice versa. As such, management of the indigenous forest is the most important, and best way of managing and protecting bird populations.

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Monitoring forest birds is a difficult task for the average person. It requires good bird identification skills. Generally the best method for beginners is to get a good bird identification book, some binoculars, and a parka to sit on. Stroll the forest, and take regular breaks to sit and observe. All birds seen and heard over a timed 5 minute period, from a known fixed point, should be recorded. Try and do under similar weather conditions (ideally fine and still) every time you monitor. Over time you should see seasonal patterns arising, and relationships aligned with the forest health. It is important that the same stretch of forest is covered during each monitoring session, and that the same fixed points are used for observation. If a threatened or rare species exists the SLG Member should contact their local DoC office. DoC will help in establishing management and monitoring plans, and may be prepared to offer some resources to ensure the habitat of the bird species is preserved. A specific monitoring plan for rare and endangered species is very important, and a very specialised task. Where threatened or rare species exist it is essential to protect the existing habitat, and to undertake appropriate weed and pest control work. Restoration plans shall be instigated where appropriate.

Summary of Requirements for 2.2.7 1. Begin bird monitoring in Indigenous Reserves. Use the Template 2.2.7a 2. If any threatened or rare species exist, contact DoC, and develop a management plan for the protection of this species and the associated habitat.

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SLG Requirement 2.2.8 Identify areas that lend themselves to restoration of indigenous forest. Identify areas that are suitable for wildlife corridors or habitat links.

Background The FSC Criteria state that: a proportion of the overall forest management area, appropriate to the scale of the plantation . . .shall be managed so as to restore the site to a natural forest. In addition members need to recognise the importance of wildlife corridors, reserve links, and landscape pattern. The importance of managing the indigenous biodiversity alongside the productive purpose of the property has been discussed in the SLG Management Handbook. These two objectives should be harmonious and managed together.

The management of isolated remnant fragments of indigenous forest, as locked up museum pieces, falls short of the landscape based approach which is essential to a healthy ecosystem. The capacity of indigenous ecosystems to contribute to production goals should not be forgotten.

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Indigenous remnants can be an excellent contribution to stock shelter and waterway protection. The fragments can be managed for protection whilst contributing to production through stock shelter and water quality. Restoration in its widest sense is the active intervention and management of degraded communities, landforms and landscapes, in order to restore the biological, ecological and physical processes, together with the cultural and visual qualities. This may involve human intervention by way of tree planting, threat management, or restoration of waterway activity. Regeneration involves a lesser amount of human intervention, but enough to enable the natural successional processes of the living community to take hold and return the degraded community to something of its original self. Human intervention will often involve threat management by removal of stock and of animal and plant pests Possible areas for regeneration include marginal farmland or “scrubby� country. Members need to seek goals for indigenous regeneration that are compatible with the productive capacity and management objectives of the land. Perhaps there is an erosion prone sidling that is not suited to either farm or plantation production. This maybe an area suited to regeneration. Perhaps the location of windbreaks could provide linkages between native forest remnants. Often these windbreaks and vegetated waterways can be a mixed exotic / indigenous planting, with timber production, shelter, pest control and connectivity between forests all being a part of its functioning system. If threatened or endangered plant or animal species exist within the landscape, Members should consider restoring neighbouring areas into habitat that will buffer the protection of these species.

Summary of Requirements 2.2.8 1. Mark the areas for regeneration or restoration on the aerial photo / map, as in 2.2.3 2. Categorise the state of the regeneration of the area, from the table below. 3. List the desired goals, threats and management targets for each of these areas on Template 2.2.8a. 4. Again, record those areas that have a dual purpose, such as shelter for stock, as such.

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The SLG Indigenous Restoration Index is outlined below:

REGENERATION COLONISE PARTIAL PLANT PLANT NATIVE PLANT MIX

The natural indigenous regeneration cycle is in progression, and will be relied on. No planting is required Colonising species (eg. Gorse). That will successionally change to native forest. Colonising species present, but will need (isolated) plantings of native species to induce successional change. Area needs to be fully planted in native species. Area will be planted in a mix of exotic and native species.

SLG Requirement 2.2.9 Identify whether there are regenerating areas that fulfil the carbon sink requirements and will consequently provide revenue generation opportunities. Background In September 2002 the Government confirmed its key climate change policies. The government is retaining the sink credits and associated liabilities allocated to New Zealand in recognition of the carbon sink value of post-1990 forest plantings. The credits for these will be retained and managed by the Government, for at least the first commitment period. There is, however, incentive for the establishment of permanent forest sinks. The preferred option is for forest owners who establish permanent (non-harvest) forest sinks, to receive returns in proportion to the carbon sequestered in their forests. There has already been significant demand, from both within New Zealand and abroad, to buy sink credits. Companies and individuals are doing this for different reasons. Some are doing it for altruistic reasons, others because of concern about public image, and others because the Government looks like it will allow such agreements to be part of a negotiated greenhouse gas agreement. Regenerating land that fulfils the requirements as a carbon sink: 1. 2.

3. 4. 5.

The parcels of regenerating land must be, combined, an area of 50 hectares minimum. In December 1989, the land must have been in less than 30% tree cover. For example, it may have been in pasture, or gorse. It doesn’t matter what has happened since 1990 Are there sources of native seed within a kilometre of the area eg. indigenous vegetation that is flowering or fruiting. The land needs to be at a low enough altitude that “tall forest” can grow there, rather than tussock and sub alpine species Stock need to be able to be excluded from the area.

If the area of land fulfils these requirements, then a joint venture agreement can be initiated. The amount of CO² being absorbed by the site is calculated, and a buyer of the units is found, at the best market price. No contracts will extend beyond 2007, but they may be renegotiable after this time. Prices to date paid for CO² units have averaged $20/ ha/yr.

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The Group Manager should be contacted if you are thinking about regenerating a piece of land for carbon credits. The rules regarding this scheme can be discussed and further steps for implementation will be discussed and started. SLG Requirement 2.2.10 Using the work completed in 2.2.2 – 2.2.9, compile a 5 year Summary Management Plan for the enhancement and management of biodiversity on your property. Background Part 2.2, Biodiversity, has provided guidelines for the implementation of a management plan that will be your guide for enhancing and restoring the indigenous biodiversity on your property. By having followed these steps you will have a list of goals and priorities, and management requirements, for the 5 year programme. Template 2.2.10a is the Summary Management Plan for Biodiversity. This is a summary of the Reserves on your property, and a planning document that needs to be incorporated into the Member’s landscape operational planning. The overall goal will be to establish and protect sufďŹ cient natural areas to enable the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity and function. The following principles, in order of priority, should be used as a guide to biodiversity protection and management: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Identify and protect the existing natural areas and riparian zones Control pests and weeds in these areas Management of threatened species Restore within existing natural areas and riparian zones Rationalise existing natural areas and riparian zone boundaries by considering aspects of viability and contribution to biodiversity Restore degraded lands to indigenous cover, as determined by ecological necessity to maintain the biodiversity of the landscape.

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Module 3: Water Requirements

2.3

Water management requirements

2.3.1

Background Successful water management requires long term commitment, management and support from individual landowners, communities and stakeholders. The ecological benefits of riparian management need to be integrated with cultural, recreational and economic considerations of managing productive landscapes. To be successful in water management, SLG members need to: • •

understand the consequences of land use practices on water quality, and understand the consequences of water quality on all of those communities (human and non human) utilising the water downstream.

It is obvious to most people, but the following fact needs reinforcement: Streams are the product of their catchments and are the link that unites all the different components of the catchment (from MfE, 2001). As such, the effective management of waterways requires the contribution of all landowners in a catchment.

It is important that landowners have a thorough understanding of: 1. The riparian vegetation function, and the riparian area 2. The local climate, soil, water and vegetation 3. The implications of different land management practices 4. The sources and causes of riparian problems, at both the local and catchment levels. 5. The need to plan, manage and observe the effects of changing waterway management. SLG Requirement 2.3.1 Assess the waterways on your property Members should ask the following questions for each of the waterways on their properties (as per template 2.3.1a): 1. 2.

What is the waterway used for? (eg. stock water, swimming ) What do I want from the stream and riparian zone? (eg. to swim in it; fish in it; provide native fish habitat, timber production)

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• • • • • • • • • •

How many other stakeholders are impacted by the water quality in this waterway? What invertebrate, fish and bird habitat is this waterway providing for? Identify indigenous wildlife. What is the indigenous vegetation of the waterway? What pests and weeds are in the riparian zone? What activities are influencing this waterway? Identify impacts that could affect the stream. What condition is the waterway currently in? What was this waterway like historically? How did Maori use the river? What values do Maori attach to this waterway? How has the relationship with the waterway changed over time? What waterway problems are arising on my property? How can they be remedied?

Ask yourself, your family and stakeholders affected by (or potentially affecting) this waterway all of these questions. You will be able to decide what the best management option is to achieve the desired purpose. A lot of the questions are simple to answer, and will just require some time to ponder. The consultation that you carry out will guide you towards gauging how other stakeholders are affected by the water quality in the waterway.

The Fish and Game Council, Department of Conservation and your Regional Council will be able to help with question relating to the condition of the waterway, and the habitat that the waterway is providing. The Fish and Game Council is knowledgable about trout and salmon fisheries, whilst DoC is concerned with the native fisheries. Regional Councils will have freshwater classification systems in their regions, and will be knowledgable about values attached to the waterways in their region. Iwi will be able to help with knowledge pertaining to the traditional uses and values of the waterways and may also have historical knowledge of the waterway. Also refer to the SLG Management Handbook, 4.2.2; Consultation with tangata whenua.

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Summary of Requirements for 2.3.1 1. Consult with other waterway stakeholders 2. Use the Template 2.3.1a to undertake an assessment of the waterways on your property 3. Use the Social and Environmental Impact Assessment template to assess any activities affecting the waterway.

2.3.2 SLG Requirement Complete a social and environmental impact assessment

The Social and Environmental Impact assessment template will guide you towards assessing what activities are influencing the waterway. It may also be helpful to have an impartial third party help with this. A third party can provide constructive criticism that will help raise and identify management issues otherwise overlooked. The process of carrying out an Environmental and social risk assessment is one that is a legal requirement, under the Resource Management Act (1991). It is a mechanism for identifying the potential risks associated with planned activities. Both FSC and the RMA are about ensuring that we act responsibly within our communities, and about environmental values. Too often risk assessments are seen as negative activities that are merely focussing on the negative aspects of change, and thus are hindering constructive, sustainable development. These assessments, however, provide a process for the research, planning and management of change arising from projects. It focuses on the individuals, groups, communities and sectors of society that are affected by change. By carrying out a social and environmental risk assessment, SLG Members will be in a position to minimise the risk of an adverse environmental incident from occurring; be able to effectively deal with possible environmental effects that may arise from undertaking projects; incorporate the concerns of the wider community in the operation planning and fully budget for a successful operation. Most operations have the potential to cause social or environmental impacts. However, operations such as harvesting (soil erosion, damage to fences, logging traffic etc), use of forestry chemicals (accidental spray drift) or a burning operation (smoke, or fire spread into neighbours) are good examples of potential impacts. SLG Members must complete an Environmental and Social Risk Assessment prior to beginning any operation. (Template 2.3.2a). Other Monitoring forms • Members must complete the Harvest Planning and Harvest Environmental Monitoring Forms prior to beginning harvest operations. Harvesting, or roading / earthworks operations are the two forestry operations that pose the most significant risk of environmental effects. A general rule is that any operations which interact with water, or displace soil, will have environmental effects.

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If Members are beginning any other operation they must complete the generic Pre-Operation Checksheet for Risk Assessment.

If Members identify any environmental risks, they should manage these risks to either eliminate or minimise them. The SLG Best Management Practices is a good guide for minimising the environmental effects of forestry operations. Summary of Requirements 2.3.2 1. Consult with other waterway stakeholders 2. Use the Template 2.3.1a to undertake an assessment of the waterways on your property.

3.

Use the Social and Environmental Impact assessment template to assess any activities affecting the environment or community.

2.3.3 SLG Requirement Prioritise the significance of the waterways and develop a Management Plan for the Restoration and Protection of significant waterways on your property. The significance of the waterways and the consequent management plans will be dictated by the questions you answered in 2.2 and the incorporation of the waterway objectives with the biodiversity objectives. Template 2.3.3a, provides a guideline for developing waterway and riparian management plans.

All members need to ensure that the following issues are addressed in their management plans: 1. Where possible, habitat is provided for native fisheries. 2. Management, or restoration, of the habitat incorporates the need to enhance the indigenous biodiversity of the landscape. 3. Land Management and operations do not impact on the waterways, and that Best Management Practices are developed for such operations that have potential to impact the waterways. The SLG Forestry Best Management Practices (appended Part 4) provide the basis for such practices. Where necessary, members need to modify these Best Management Practices to incorporate other land use practices not covered by the SLG Best Management Practices.

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Summary of Requirements for 2.3.3 Develop management plan/s for significant waterways on your property. Incorporate habitat protection and enhancement and the best management of operations to ensure waterways are protected.

2.3.4 SLG Requirement For significant waterways, implement a water quality monitoring programme. It is important to monitor the quality of water in waterways that have important values, especially when active management associated with the waterways is taking place. Monitoring can contribute to: • Helping you achieve your goals • Tracking the effects of operation disturbances • Tracking the effects of restoration and plantings • Assessing the response of invertebrates, fish and birds to habitat changes • Ensuring the water that you, your family and community drink, swim and bath in is clean and safe.

The New Zealand stream health monitoring and assessment kit (SHMAK Kit) has been produced to enable landowners to collect scientifically robust information about the health of their waterways. The SHMAK kit is available from NIWA. (Phone 03 3437890). www.landcare.org.nz/shmak

By selecting 10 metre long monitoring sites, you can record a set of standard observations and measurements on a form. By applying a scoring system to the information being collected, the scores can be totalled and compared. This allows assessment of changes over time and of the factors affecting those changes. Contact the SLG Group Manager for more monitoring details.

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Module 4: Soil Requirements

2.4

Soil Management Requirements Soil management and conservation is a cornerstone of sustainable land management. The scope of successful soil management is so large and complex that we can only touch on the basics in this handbook. However, the outcomes of this chapter will see the SLG members become more aware of future soil management they need to undertake, and understand the potential effects that land management operations can have on the sustainability of the soil on which we are so reliant.

The four key reasons, listed in the “Soil Conservation Technical Handbook”, Hicks, D.H and Anthony, T. (eds) MfE 2001, for sustainable (soil) management are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4.

“Soil erosion affects downstream communities and the natural environment by increasing the risk of flooding and causing damage through silt depositions” Our reputation for “quality goods from a quality environment” depends on sustainable land use practices. Soil erosion is a very visible negative impact of pastoral land use. That image may affect our “clean green” image and trade in the future.

SLG Members should refer to the Soil Conservation Handbook if they have specific soil management issues. Alternatively, seek expert advice from Regional Councils or organisations specialising in such services.

2.4.1 SLG Requirement To identify activities that have the potential to have adverse effects on the soil Using the Environmental and Social Risk Assessment Template 2.3.2a identify those land management activities that have the potential to adversely affect the soils.

2.4.2 SLG Requirement Develop Best Management Practices that aim to mitigate or minimise the potential of these activities to have adverse effects on the environment. Best Management Practices for forestry operations that have the potential to have significant impact on the soils are listed in Part 4. SLG members need to ensure that these Best Management Practices are transferred into practice and that Best Management Practices are developed for those land management activities that are not covered by the Group BMPs. Regional Councils will often have guidelines that can be incorporated into Member’s management plans.

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Module 5: Weed and Pest Requirements

2.5

Weed and Pest Management Requirements Weeds and pests, as outlined in Part 4 of the SLG Handbook, are any non-local plant or animal that detrimentally affect the ecology or sustainability of a given ecosystem. In Aotearoa New Zealand, conservation of biodiversity requires the control of such invasive plant and animal species. Most weeds and pests are exotic species that thrive in the absence of natural predators. SLG Members must recognise the need to manage these introduced pests to: 1. Protect the health of Reserve Areas, ecosystems and landscapes. 2. Protect the health and productivity of plantation forests and other crop species and production systems. 3. To ensure neighbours are not adversely affected There is a range of animal, fungal, insect and plant pests that affect our indigenous and managed exotic landscapes in Aotearoa. Successful pest management must rely primarily on prevention and biological control methods rather than chemical pesticides.

2.5.1 SLG Requirement Document the requirements for the successful management of pests in the landscape Animal pests are the most recognised threats to natural ecosystems, and the damage they cause is often the most conspicuous. Animal pests in Aotearoa include possums, deer, rabbits, hares, wallabies, goats, pigs, thar, chamois, stoats, ferrets, weasels, cats, rats and wasps. Possums are the greatest threat to New Zealand’s indigenous flora, due to their extensive browsing range and the significant damage they can do to the vegetation. Possums browse both the forest canopy, regenerating seedlings, and flowers and fruit of more mature trees. They also eat bird eggs and nestlings. Possums can do significant damage to radiata pine trees, by browsing the tops of the trees and causing trees to become multi-leadered. Possums will sometimes ring bark younger pine trees. Rats, cats, stoats, ferrets and weasels do not cause direct damage to either indigenous or exotic vegetation, but can wreak havoc on the forest ecology by eating young birds, indigenous invertebrate fauna and large amounts of seed. Rabbits and hares can cause considerable damage to young seedlings (both exotic and indigenous) and significantly impact the survival and establishment of these seedlings. Burrows can cause significant erosion in some ecosystems. Deer, goats and pigs can also cause extensive damage to understorey vegetation and seedlings. They may also damage older trees by stripping and rubbing off the bark. When these animals are in large numbers they can cause serious damage to vegetation.

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Further information can be found in “The Handbook of New Zealand Mammals”, Carolyn King (Editor), Oxford Uni Press in association with New Zealand Mammal Society, New Zealand Branch, 1990. Other animal pest control It is important that livestock are fenced out of indigenous forests. They should also be fenced out of exotic plantations, especially when the trees are between the ages of 1 and 6. It is risky to let cattle in amongst exotic plantations, but sheep can sometimes be grazed amongst the trees.

Pest control is part of an integrated pest management strategy. This strategy shall identify: 1. The range and number of pests 2. Population dynamics – when it is best to intervene, and what is a sustainable pest population 3. Methods of intervention 4. Requirements of the Regional Pest Strategy

Summary of Requirements for 2.5.1, using Template 2.5.1a 1. List, rank and categorise the pests under current land management. 2. List the desired outcome and rank the pests in terms of need to control, and their effect on management. Priority is given to any infestation in High Conservation Value reserves. 3. Incorporate the requirements of the Regional Pest Strategy. 4. Take note of population dynamics – when is the best time to intervene. 5. List control methods, and parties relevant for such operations. Take into account the requirements of Module 6 – the need to reduce the use of chemicals.

2.5.2 SLG Requirement Record the methods of control and monitor pest control operations undertaken Group Members should check with their Regional Council as to who and what pest control activity is undertaken in their region. The Regional Council, or the Animal Health Board may be undertaking pest management in the region. Members should record what pest control is undertaken from these external agencies, and wherever possible, monitor the pest control results over time.

Summary of Requirements for 2.5.2a • Monitoring should be undertaken using the monitoring Template 2.5.2a. This should be undertaken in conjunction with every pest control operation. • Monitoring should include the amount of bait consumed, whether any bait remains at the end of the operation; and, the number of pests killed or anticipated kills. If any non-target species are killed during the operation, this must be recorded.

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Pest Control Methods: Possible Feral Pest Control Methods There are three basic options for the control of feral animal pests: trapping, shooting or poisoning. These are all operations that require skill and care, for the protection of the operator, the humanity of the kill, the safety of the non-target species, waters and soils. •

Shooting should only be undertaken by hunters who are skilled and have the correct firearms licence requirements.

Trapping requires the operator to be aware of safe (techniques that only capture target pests) and humane trapping techniques. Nails or staples used to attach traps to trees must be removed upon completion of the operation. Dogs in hunting parties must be well trained.

Group Members must pay attention to the requirement to minimise the use of toxic chemicals in operations. Members should carefully consider the use of alternative methods to poisons. However, for effective pest management, chemical use is a sensible option particularly in rough country.

The use of poisons in possum control requires an exemption from the FSC Principle and Criteria. To gain this exemption, Members will need to demonstrate the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Use of the pesticide is justified as part of an integrated pest management system. Integrated Pest Management systems are described in BMP/06. Best Practice procedures for the use of the pesticide have been defined. Best Management Practices are outlined in SLG Appendix 6, practice guide. Application of the pesticide is the subject of appropriate stakeholder consultation. If disputes arise, the pesticide can not be used. There is some involvement, or contribution, to alternative methods of control. Monitoring of possible effects on non target species within the certified area is occurring.

The Use of Poisons for Controlling Pests: A list of poisons commonly used in the control of pests is listed over page. There are five vertebrate pest poisons registered for use in New Zealand. All five, if ingested in the pure form, are highly toxic to humans. Three of these, Phosphorus, Brodifacoum and Pindone are banned for use from Sustainable Landowner Group properties. These poisons are considered too inhumane and too persistent in the environment. 1080 Sodium monofluoroacetate, or 1080, has been subject to ongoing public concern and debate about its safety, especially when being applied aerially. It is regarded by the Department of Conservation, other conservation agencies and scientists as the best method for controlling possums and other introduced pest species such as rabbits,stoats, rats and cats. Opponents of 1080 generally point to three areas of risk in relation to the aerial application of 1080. These are the risk of contaminating water supplies, the risk to non-target species such as native birds, and the risk of secondary poisoning of animals such as dogs. The seriousness of these risks is generally the cause of debate amongst 1080 stakeholder groups.

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The Department of Conservation advocates the use of 1080 as a poison that will aid the halt of serious indigenous biodiversity decline that we, as a country, are experiencing, and that the risks associated with 1080 are small in relation to the conservation benefits. Evidence to date (Eason and Wickstrom 2001) show that where losses to non target species have occurred, they have been minimal and the benefits to the overall indigenous biodiversity in the areas have been major. Water sampling to date indicates that 1080 degrades very quickly in water and that the risk of contamination is very low (Eason, 1999). However, it is recommended best practice that no aerial application of any poison take place over, or near, waterways. These areas should be controlled through bait stations or alternative methods such as trapping. There have been occurrences of secondary poisoning, particularly of dogs. Risk mitigation practices involve signage and public notices notifying the public not to enter such areas. (Towards a Pesticides Risk Reduction Policy for New Zealand, MfE, 2002 publications@mfe.govt.nz).

SLG Member’s Use of Poisons If members are using chemicals for pest control, they must justify their use, as above, in their management plan. Poison users must ensure the following rules are abided by: 1. Due consideration to the use of bait stations / bags, rather than broadcast application. 2. GPS must be used for broadcast application. 3. Only use those chemicals listed in appendix 6, BMP/06. 4. Do not use deadly poison where people commonly have access. 5. Appropriate signage must be used. 6. Avoid aerial application over waterbodies. No poison is to be placed within 10 metres of a waterway. 7. Only licensed operators are to carry out operations, using correct protective equipment. 8. Unused toxic baits are to be disposed of by approved methods. Common Poisons Used for possum control in NZ. (source DOC Technical Series 23. “Vertebrate Pesticide Toxicology Manual”) Cyanide: • Rapid action, humane • Effectiveness is affected by cyanide aversion • Low environmental persistence • Low risk of secondary poisoning • Effective antidotes lacking. 1080: • • • • •

Moderately rapid and humane Very effective Low Environmental Persistence Risk of secondary poison No available antidote

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Cholecalciferol: • Effective • Lower toxicity to birds than 1080 • Low risk of secondary poisoning • Expensive compared to cyanide or 1080 Brodifacoum – Banned from SLG forests • Slow death for possums (2-4 weeks) • Effective against low density or bait shy possums • Very persistent in environment • High risk of secondary poisoning • Widespread contamination of wildlife possible • Antidote available • Expensive compared to cyanide or 1080 Pindone – Banned from SLG forests • Slow death for possums (2-3 weeks) • Poor effectiveness • Moderate persistence in environment • Low risk of secondary poisoning • Antidote available Phosphorus – Banned from SLG forests • Causes pain and sickness to possum • Effective • Risk of secondary poisoning • Lack of antidote The toxicity levels of the 3 pesticides allowed in SLG forests (Cyanide, 1080 and Cholecalciferol) can be found in www.wrightson.co.nz Other Points to note for successful pest management: 1. All affected parties must be consulted where necessary, with consultation recorded on the consultation form SLG/GMP/2.7.1b - 2.5.2a.. 2. Carcasses to be disposed of in a safe, approved manner. 3. Ensure that all traps and bait stations are accounted for upon completion of the operation. 2.5.3 SLG Requirement Document the requirements for the successful management of weeds in the landscape. Plant pests or Weeds are very invasive plants that typically invade open or disturbed sites.There are also some shade tolerant weeds that invade under a forest canopy. They can have significant impacts on all types of vegetation, whether it is indigenous, exotic trees or pasture species. Weeds may be in the form of introduced herbs, shrubs, grapes, ferns, vines or trees, and are generally very aggressive in their demand for light, space, moisture and nutrients. Weeds will compete against exotic crops (whether trees or pasture crops) and will generally hamper the growth rate and health of these crops. The main benefit of controlling weeds from a production crop perspective is the higher productivity gained from that crop.

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Weeds affect indigenous ecosystems by invading and outcompeting the indigenous components. Weeds will damage indigenous communities by: • •

Smothering and strangling trees and shrubs. Climbers such as old man’s beard and banana passionfruit are well known examples of strangling creeper species. Suppressing natural regeneration. In situations where light levels are high or soils are freshly disturbed and open, conditions are ideal for invasive weeds to inhabit the area. Weeds such as wandering jew and wild ginger will often invade and form dense mats over the ground, smothering young indigenous seedlings. Other species such as bracken and gorse are more common examples. These species exhibit quick growth. “Use a ‘weed map’ to record weed distributions and any areas of weed spread that are of concern. This map should be an aerial photo that overlays on to Map 1.1” Some weed species, such as willows, can grow rapidly through breaks in the canopy, and then overtop and crowd out the indigenous species.

The variance amongst regions and the sheer number of weeds in Aotearoa make it a difficult subject to discuss in any depth. Regional Councils will normally have a Regional Pest Strategy that outlines the regional weeds and pests of significance and the levels of control deemed necessary for the management of these species. Regional Councils will have legislated requirements for the control of some weed pests. Landowners are legally obliged to fulfil these requirements.

Managing Weeds SLG Members requiring specific information should use the following references: 1. An Illustrated guide to common weeds of NZ. 1998. NZ Plant protection society/ B Roy, I Popay, P Champion, T James, A Rahman. 2. Alternatives to the chemical controls of weeds: FRI Bulletin No.155, 1990, CA Bassett, L.J. Whitehouse and J.A. Zabkiewicz 3. The New Zealand Pest Plan Manual, including National and Regional Pest Plants. (www.protectnz.org.nz) There are some general pointers that landowners should take into account when planning how to manage the weeds on their properties. 1.

Most weed species are prolific seed producers, and once established, are very hard to control. Removing weeds before they have established and spread will save a lot of extensive work later on. Thus, the first priority should be to kill or remove the plants before they produce seed. Although wind and birds play a major, uncontrollable role in seed distribution, the removal of nearby seed sources can significantly reduce the problem.

2.

Healthy forests, whether exotic or indigenous, will be less susceptible to weed invasion than degraded forests. Full canopy cover and heavy undergrowth coverage will reduce the likelihood of weeds establishing in these situations. Therefore, it is important to eliminate any potential sites for the establishment of weeds. Any opportunity of increased light or clear ground will be grabbed by colonising species, so the quicker a tree crop is established, the greater the ability to keep weeds at bay.

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3.

Areas of recent soil disturbance (roads / tracks/ heavy grazing) should be checked regularly for weed infestation. Eradication of weeds should be implemented early, to prevent further spread.

Source Management In some areas the source of weed seed can be efficiently addressed, rather than merely addressing the ongoing supply of seedlings. Weed sources may be trees and shrubs in nearby home gardens that could be replaced with non-invasive species. They may be a small number of old plants that could be removed. Methods of Weed Control The method of weed control will depend on a range of factors: • The type(s) of weeds • The degree of infestation • The available resources of labour, time and finance • Resource of weed seed. Hand weeding A labour intensive method, but suitable for areas where there is a low infestation of weeds which can be pulled or dug out easily. Slashing, pulling or grubbing of weeds are applicable methods of weed removal. The soil around the removed weed should not be left bare, as it then becomes an opportunity for weed reinvasion. Ring barking This, again, is a labour intensive method that can be used on trees and shrubs that have a large enough stump to be partially cut. Two parallel and deep cuts into the sapwood of the plant, around its base, are essential to ensure a tree is correctly ring barked. Machine Control Is only applicable to pre-planting operations (generally exotic forestry only). This includes operation such as roller crushing, root raking and rotary slashing. It is important that these operations do not remove topsoil or cause soil compaction. An experienced operator is crucial to a successful outcome. Herbicides Members should always consider alternatives to chemicals. Herbicides are sometimes needed if the infestation is large and control by other methods is not feasible. Members need to comply with the chemical requirements outlined in Chapter 5. Spraying of herbicides must be undertaken by suitably qualified personnel. Some weeds in low quantity may need to be injected or cut and painted with herbicide. I

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It is important that, if applying herbicide in protected reserves, very specific methods are used: • Foliar spray on the leaves. Best suited to low growth or to the spray regrowth of stumps. Take care to avoid spray drift - some indigenous species are very sensitive. • Application to the stump. Used on small to medium sized woody weeds, apply the herbicide immediately as the sap ceases to flow. • Tree injection. This is a useful method for larger shrubs and trees where their felling and removal is difficult or would cause damage to surrounding vegetation. When the trees are actively growing, drill holes into the tree, and place herbicide into the drilled holes. Summary of Requirements for 2.5.3 1. Using Template 2.5.3a. List, rank and categorise the weeds under current land management. 2. Use a “Weed Map” to record weed distributions and any areas of weed spread that are of concern. This could be an overlay of Map 2.1. 3. Rank the weeds in terms of need to control, and their effect on management. Priority to be given to infestations in HCV areas. 4. Incorporate the requirements of the Regional Pest Strategy. 5. List control methods, and parties relevant for such operations. Of high importance is the need to take into account the time of the year that will achieve the best weed management results. 6. Take into account the requirements of Module 6 – the need to reduce the use of chemicals.

2.5.4 SLG Requirement: Record the methods of control, and monitor weed control operations undertaken over the property. It is important to monitor the size / vigour of weed spread over time. After checking with the Regional Pest Strategy, members need to decide what methods of control are necessary for the weed control on their properties. It is important that careful well-targeted methods are used where weed control is undertaken. In areas of high importance, such as indigenous reserves, Members will be limited by the methods they can safely use to control weeds. Chemical Use in Plantations Spraying in plantation circumstances is generally undertaken prior to establishing a new crop, or soon after the planting operation is completed. Generally hand held, or backpack units are used, with spots sprayed around the tree that has been planted.

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When undertaking plantation spraying, it is sometimes appropriate to broadcast spray an area using ground based or aerial spraying units. Broadcast based application is not favoured as the use of chemical is excessive and often plants other than the target weeds are killed. Members need to justify why they would use these methods in their management plans. Only qualified operators can be used in such circumstances, and they must use GPS for aerial application. Chemical Use in the Conservation Environment When using chemicals in conservation environments (eg. indigenous reserves) to manage invasive weeds such as old mans beard and gorse, it is especially important that applications are carefully targeted in order to prevent damage to surrounding vegetation. The targeted use of chemicals in aquatic environments is often considered to be more environmentally beneficial than alternative mechanical methods. In freshwater aquatic environments such as lakes, diqaut and a formulation of glyphosphate sometimes control exotic weeds. These herbicides have low toxicity to aquatic organisms. The targeted use of low toxicity chemicals should be considered in the maintenance and weed control of riparian margins. Historically mechanical machinery has been used in such circumstances, but the negative environmental impacts of such practices will often deem carefully controlled chemical use to be more appropriate.

Summary of Requirement for 2.5.4 Complete Template 2.5.4a upon completing weed management jobs within the landscape.

2.5.5 SLG Requirement Identify the risk of wilding tree spread and, if necessary, develop a management plan to prevent and / or control wilding spread. Wilding conifers Wilding conifers are self sown conifer trees that have originated from exotic plantations, shelter and amenity plantings Wildings are a major weed in Aotearoa, especially in the South Island high country where their presence results in: •

• • • •

Loss of conservation values (disruption of native plant communities and wildlife habitat) Reduced stream water yield Reduced pastoral farming profits Transformation of landscapes Degradation of historic and cultural sites.

The Department of Conservation estimates that 210 000 hectares of land under their administration is presently threatened by wilding conifers. Property owners and leaseholders are also threatened by the spread of these trees.

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The main species contributing to the wilding conifer spread are Contorta Pine, Corsican Pine, Douglas Fir, Radiata pine and Larch. These are invasive species that spread easily from plantations to the surrounding landscape. Their invasiveness can largely be predicted by their biological success rating (BSR) which measures the biological capacity of the species. Criteria include the quantity of seed produced, viability of seed, seed dispersal, age of seeding, and the ability of seed to establish and the growth rates of the seed once established. Contorta pine is the most vigorous spreader of the above list of species. However, due to the dominance of Radiata pine plantations, this is the most widespread of the wilding species (from Harding, 2001). 1. 2.

Radiata pines establish largely in the open such as amongst grasslands, low shrublands and rockfields. Being shade tolerant, Douglas Fir will spread to existing bush and shrublands.

If Group Members are considering establishing the option of conifers in high country areas, they should use the tool “Guidelines for minimising the risk of unwanted wilding spread from new plantings of introduced conifers”. Developed by Forest Research, this is available on the website www.forestry.ac.na or as a publication. With seed able to spread several kilometers and large quantities of seed available to spread during particular wind events, a precautionary approach is advised. Whilst fringe spread is more easily managed, the risk to the wider landscape is less easily assured. Avoiding planting may be the most responsible option in high risk situations. Wilding broadleaves Exotic broadleaved timber trees can also perform as invasive species eg Sycamore, Ash, Acacia, Rowan, Silverbirch, Alder, Blacklocust and Willows. Assess their potential for spread beyond planting in your landscape. With wind or water borne seed spreading several kilometers, any potential threat identified should be avoided by resisting planting such species. In spread-prone areas, choose species with heavy seed that will not move off site eg Oak.

Summary of Requirement 2.5.5 If wilding spread is considered of any potential threat, develop a management plan for control Template 2.5.3a and 2.5.4a.

2.5.6 SLG Requirement Monitor plantation forests for fungal infection. Should fungal infection be detected, act appropriately.

Fungal diseases can affect exotic plantations in New Zealand. Until recently our relative geographical isolation has meant that Radiata pine is generally free of the pests and diseases that commonly affect tree crops elsewhere in the world. However, the “borderless world” that we now live in deems isolation to be a term of the past. Hence, it is imperative that plantation owners have a basic knowledge of the following fungal diseases:

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Dothistroma and Cyclaneusma: Apart from forests located in dry areas, Radiata pine is susceptible to attack by the fungal diseases Dothistroma and Clyclaneusma. Although quite different, they both involve the death of needles. Dothistroma, or needle blight infection commences at the tree base, causing the tree foliage to turn red-brown. Clyclaneusma tends to attack other needles throughout the crown, and initially at least, causes affected needles to turn yellow/brown. Climates characterised by wet summers favour both of the diseases. Warm, humid climates are more prone to these infections than are drier climates. Armillaria Fungus that spreads from the roots of native trees (thus often referred to as root rot) and will often cause the death of pine trees through the decay of roots. Armillaria will still occur in second rotation crops that have been planted in native cut over forest. In younger trees, the needles in the crown will droop, turn yellow and then brick red, whilst staying firmly attached to the dead tree. In older trees, the crown will turn pale green, then brown and will then be shed. Diplodia Is a fungus that causes leader dieback, crown wilt and whorl canker. The fungus is more likely to be present in warm, humid environments, or where trees are stressed due to drought, over pruning etc. If “leader dieback” occurs, the leading shoot will die and become mummified, with a side branch from the whorl underneath taking over. In “crown wilt and whorl canker” the fungus enters through pruning wounds. Consequently the inner bark is killed in patches above and below the whorl, and ends up as sunken hollows on the stem with patches of dead bark. This is more likely to occur if pruning has been undertaken prior, or during a drought, and if a large amount of green crown has been removed. Peniophora: can occur on land carrying heavy Manuka scrub where there are warm soil and air temperatures for most of the year. It kills the tree roots, and will cause resin bleeding at the root collar. Phaeocryptopus: Often called Swiss needle cast, this disease effects Douglas Fir through needle chlorosis and premature casting of older foliage. There is consequently a reduction in growth. (this information is sourced from Radiata Pine Growers Handbook, MacLaren, P., 1993) More information is available from www.foresthealth.co.nz Control Methods for Fungal diseases: If establishing a plantation in areas prone to Dothistroma, the use of planting stock resistant to this fungus should be used. Once established, it is important to maintain fast-growing vigorous trees. Healthy forests are the best way of warding off potential diseases. Thinning and pruning is important for allowing air circulation through the forest, which will reduce the incidence of fungal attack. If forest monitoring shows that fungal infection is causing loss of tree growth and productivity, then one of the following options should be instigated. As discussed, timely silviculture is important. If the silviculture on the stand is overdue, a pruning and thinning operation may be enough to reduce the vigour of the infection.

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If the infection has reached a critical level, then fungicide spraying may be necessary. Only approved fungicides should be used by approved aerial applicators. 2.5.7 SLG Requirement Monitor the health of plantation forests. Act on any detection of pest, weed or fungal outbreak. Group Members should either arrange for a professional agency to undertake routine plantation inspections, or undertake the inspections themselves. Regional or catchment Group Members should contact the WFS Group Manager about the possibility of a Group inspection for closely located Members. By routinely inspecting the forests, members will: • Be more likely to detect any disease or pest entry • Initiate quick action following this inspection, to minimise the impact of the outbreak. • Assure investors and stakeholders of the health of the forest Vigil, a subsidiary of Forest Research, is a professional organisation who routinely monitor forests. They have developed systems that are specific to forest owners seeking FSC certfiication. Large forest owners (over 100ha) should consider utilising Vigil’s services. If members are undertaking their own surveillance, and find a “new” pest or disease, they should contact MAF

Summary of Requirement for 2.5.7. Use Template 2.5.7a to monitor plantation forest health. For larger forest owners it is suggested that a specialist forest health provider should be appointed.

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2.6

Chemical Management

2.6.1

SLG REQUIREMENT To reduce toxic chemical rate use over time, and to use alternative methods for weed and pest control wherever possible. To implement and undertake Integrated Pest Management Systems (IPM). The need to reduce the chemical application rates used on SLG Member’s properties has already been discussed, with alternative methods for pest and weed control discussed and advocated. There are numerous health and safety risks associated with not only using chemicals, but with consuming products that have been sprayed with chemicals. Other adverse effects of chemicals can include: • • •

Lowering the beneficial biodiversity in production areas through the use of broad spectrum pesticides. Contamination of the surface and groundwater, with the associated ecological effects Contamination of estuarine environments, with possible economic impacts for marine farming from non-biodegradable pesticides. (MfE, 2002)

Integrated Pest Management Systems 1. Moving away from production systems that rely on pesticides is important for the long term health of the ecosystem, and thus the continued viability of the production business, and the health of workers and consumers. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems reduce the level of chemical usage in forestry and agriculture through a much more targeted use of pesticides, by working with pest life cycles and accounting for the beneficial interactions of pests with the farm and forest environment. 2.

SLG Members need to extend their thinking to the way they establish plantation crops and other crop species. Perhaps hard grazing of the forest site immediately prior to tree planting will reduce the need for chemical release of the tree stocks; or use of containerised planting stock will allow planting to occur later in the season when weed growth is not so vigorous; or two year old large planting stock can be planted amongst grass species that are not quick growing species.

3.

There is currently research being undertaken to research the option of reducing chemicals in order to maim competitor weeds, rather than killing them outright. The idea is to stunt weeds so they do not cause unacceptable growth competition for the trees. This may require that site and weed specific trials are carried out to tailor herbicides and application rates to particular situations. It is often possible to reduce herbicide application rates, and still achieve effective weed control. However, until more is understood about dose-response levels, applying lowerthan-recommended dosages is at the risk of the individual.

4.

Hard-to-control weeds like broom and gorse should be controlled prior to planting, rather than using the more toxic chemicals (like Tordon) in post-planting operations.

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5.

Often only isolated areas of forest blocks are invaded by weeds. The use of spot spraying, or very targeted aerial spraying should always be preferred to the use of broadcast spraying. GPS technology is now common place amongst aerial applicators, and should be used wherever possible to ensure even application of broadcast herbicide.

6.

Oversowing with legumes is also useful when re planting harvested sites. This will mean that weeds will not invade the site so quickly, and the fertility of the site will be enhanced. Hence the need to use more toxic agrichemicals will be reduced.

7.

The use of mechanical site preparation techniques should be considered in speciďŹ c circumstances. If the area is not sensitive in terms of potential soil erosion, or effects on water, then the use of mechanical equipment is often preferred. Ensure that the best management practices for mechanical site preparation are referred to when considering, planning or managing such an operation.

8.

Vegetation Manager (VMAN) is a software tool designed to help evaluate the cost effectiveness of different weed control regimes. In time, this tool will allow forest managers to assess the response of weeds on different sites to varying amounts of herbicide doses.

9.

Biological control of weeds: Biological control uses one living organism to control another. Classical biological control relies on establishing the agents (usually insects or fungi) and then allowing them to persist forever. By comparison, inundative biological control uses large quantities of pathogens to create artiďŹ cial disease epidemic’s, but they do not persist for long and need to be reapplied.

Research into reducing chemical in operations Wrightson Forestry Services, along with most of the forestry industry stakeholders, is very interested in identifying and researching methods for reducing chemical use, investigating the use of biological control for weed and pest management, and better waste management practices for chemical containers. There is currently research being undertaken in all of these areas. WFS is a member of the Farm and Forest Plantation Management Cooperative and the NZ Forest Site Management Cooperative. These two industry research cooperatives are active in researching projects that contribute to environmental sustainability. The WFS Group Manager will ensure all relevant information is disseminated to SLG Group Members through the Communication medium outlined in Module 7.

Summary of Requirements for 2.6.1 1. SLG Members need to actively seek ways to reduce the amount of chemical used in their landscape operations. Referring to Templates 2.5.2a and 2.5.3a. Members should document what IPM methods they are using, and describe how they are striving to reduce chemical use. 2. Document an Integrated Pest Management Plan.

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2.6.2

SLG REQUIREMENT To document the use of chemicals over time and to keep a full inventory of chemicals used on site at all times.

Due to the variability in the amount of operations undertaken in any one year, the amount of chemical used in a specific year may increase. However, the average rates per hectare of chemical applied should reduce over time. In particular, Members need to show a real commitment to reducing the most toxic and bio-accumulating chemicals. Members should use Template 2.6.2a to record the chemical used in their operations (farm and forest); the reason for use; the volume used and the rate of application. A comprehensive list of the volume of chemicals held on the property should be available and up to date. Material data safety sheet should be kept on site, detailing the toxicity of the chemical and the active ingredients.

SLG Members must be aware that some chemicals are banned by FSC. The FSC Principles and Criteria states;

“World health Organisation Type 1A and 1B chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides; pesticides that are persistent, toxic or whose derivatives remain biologically active and accumulate in the food chain beyond their intended use; as well as any pesticides banned by international agreement, shall be prohibited. If chemicals are used, proper agreement an training shall be provided to minimise health and environmental risks”

• •

A list of banned chemicals are listed www.fsc.org. Other chemicals allowed are also listed, with their environmental persistence and toxicity, www.fsc.org.

There is some conflict with New Zealand legislation (the Biosecurity Act 1993) and the requirement of the FSC Criterion listed above. The New Zealand Forestry Industry has been granted exemptions for the use of some WHO Type 1A and 1B chemicals. Sodium Monofluoroacetate (1080 ) and Sodium Cyanide have both been given exemption, until more suitable methods are found for pest control in New Zealand. In order for forest managers in New Zealand to be competent environmental managers, there is, at this stage, a real need for the use of these chemicals. The need to protect biodiversity values is imperative. Provided that professional standards are met, this cost effective approach to pest management will, in the current day, be the most effective. The risks of negative environmental effects from toxins need to be balanced against the certainty of delivering benefits to valued wildlife.

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The FSC exemptions are conditional on forest owners fulfilling the following requirements: 1. The use of the chemical is only a part of an Integrated Pest Management plan, that identifies non chemical alternatives, and follows the least toxic, most effective approach to pest management. 2. Users of the chemicals do so in accordance with the NZ Agrichemical Users Code of Practice and legal requirements. All people handling the chemicals are trained in the handling, application and storage procedures. 3. Stakeholder consultation has been undertaken prior to the application of these pesticides, with sufficient time allowed for stakeholder’s responses to be acted upon. 4. A complete inventory of chemicals is kept, and chemicals are kept in secure storage areas.

Summary of Requirements for 2.6.2: 1. To document the use of chemicals over time, using Template 2.6.2a 2. To keep a full and current inventory of all chemicals present on the property, at the storage site, using Template 2.6.2b. 3. To keep Material Safety Data sheets on site, for all chemicals used. 4. For chemical users to be appropriately trained in the safe handling and use of the chemicals.

2.6.3

SLG REQUIREMENT To minimise the potential for chemicals to adversely affect any non-target organisms, and to ensure the safe use of chemicals. Non-target organisms include plants, animals, insects, humans, fish etc. Soil and water are also non-targets. To be able to successfully implement this requirement, Members will need to ensure they have the necessary knowledge to be safe users of chemicals. Knowledge required relating to the use of chemicals: There are numerous texts, guidelines and Regulatory Acts that are specific to the use, storage and transport of chemicals. Members are recommended to purchase the Growsafe manual “ The Management of chemicals”. This is a New Zealand Standards publication NZS 8409:1999. Members should be aware of the procedures in this text, and take specific notice of the procedures for storage, use and transport of the chemicals. Emergency procedures for chemical spills or human poisoning are also in this text. SLG Members, and all staff who are handling chemicals need to be aware of these procedures. Regular users of chemicals should be certified under the NZQA accredited Growsafe course. This is a one day course, provided at minimal cost, in most regions on a regular basis. SLG Members should ensure that contractors they employ hold a current Growsafe certificate.

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Users of agricultural poisons must be registered as licensed operators under the Pesticides (Vertebrate) Act 1983.

Other references relevant to the use of agrichemicals: All agrichemical operations should be implemented according to relevant regional and national legislation, codes of practices and industry best knowledge. These include the following: 1. The Management of Agrichemicals Standard NZS 8409:1999 2. New Zealand Forest Code of Practice 3. Resource Management Act 1991 4. Biosecurity Act 1993 5. HSNO Act 1996 6. Regional Plans on air, water, pests and soil 7. Forest Research Institute Bulletin 180: Forest Weed Control Manual 8. SLG Group Best Management Practices

Summary of Requirements for 2.6.3 • To ensure all users of chemicals on the Member’s property are aware of the safe handling procedures and best management practices relating to their use, by way of an accredited Growsafe Course. • The Herbicide pre-operation checklist (2.6.4a) must be used prior to using herbicide.

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Module 7: Community Requirements

2.7 2.7.1

Community Requirements SLG Requirement Consultation shall be maintained with people and groups directly affected by management operations. Management planning shall incorporate the results of a social impact assessment.

Background Collaboration approaches to decision making are essential if SLG Members are to achieve more sustainable management of their natural resources. The need for participatory or collaborative approaches to meet environmental challenges is especially important in smaller communities where human and financial resources may be limited (Allen, W. 2001) Often the conflict that surrounds many Resource Management issues relates to the fact that different interest groups fail to appreciate the perspectives and values inherent in the actions of others. As such the effective management of environmental issues requires the many stakeholders to develop solutions co-operatively. Participation in this decision making encourages stakeholders to buy into outcomes and see them through to implementation. There is often a degree of complexity and differing social perspective attached to land use. To ensure that all “useful knowledge” is shared, and best management practices are developed, there needs to be good communication flows amongst all involved. The ability to understand how others see the world, and thus understand how they act in it, is an important skill to have in this process. In New Zealand “consultation” requires that you not only inform people of what you would like to do, but that you provide them with enough information to understand the proposals, and, that you be prepared to alter the proposals in response to their input. The following are some points that should be considered when developing an approach to consultation: • Identify all stakeholders and make contact as early as possible. • Communicate and develop relationships with stakeholders • Understand the requirements and desires of different stakeholders • Give meaningful response to issues raised – without creating false expectations of what is possible. • Find appropriate ways to communicate with different stakeholders (face to face, public meetings, email, mail outs etc) • Build trust • Be prepared to compromise. (From Handford and Nussbaum,2001)

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“Working together through collaborative partnerships is a powerful way to improve our communications and environment. These are alliances that can be used to improve the health of the community in the widest sense of the term (environmental, educational, economic, social etc)” (Allen, W. 2000). If Group Members undertake any operations that may effect stakeholders then they must consult them. This affect may be a positive one, like restoring a fragment of indigenous forest, or negative, like increased traffic use. Each Group Member should decide who they need to consult, and under what circumstances.

The landscape assessment (2.1) should identify potential interest in effects on the landscape commons. The biodiversity assessment (2.2) will identify if there are significant values that may be of wider interest. Each dimension needs to be considered. A frequent concern is effects on a community’s needs through logging traffic. Community consultation can identify and often resolve concerns through improved communication and trust and introduction of creative alternatives.

The Social Impact assessment will also aid the social consultation process. This is outlined further in Template 2.7.1b. Social Impact assessment focuses on individuals, groups, communities and sectors of society affected by change. It is an important part of environmental assessments, and is a legal requirement for matters covered by the RMA (1991). Consultation: Inform and consult with potentially affected stakeholders regarding proposals for land use change and forestry operations. Procedure: The Stakeholder consultation form Template 2.7.1b, is to be used to document any communication and consultation that Group Members have undertaken with potentially affected stakeholders. Group members are to consult with stakeholders that may be affected by operations undertaken. Enough time should be provided to allow the consulted stakeholder time to respond. A guide to the expectations and vision for an area may be obtained from local planning documents. The District Plan, and its background and supporting documents, might explain what people expect and want of an area. With the new Local Government Act, Community Plans provide the community with an opportunity to articulate their values and vision for an area. As these are developed, heed should be taken in planning any land use change or development.

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Some likely Stakeholders and their possible interests are listed below; 1.

Department of Conservation (DoC) are experts in conservation management. As such, they can offer significant expertise when Members are planning and implementing their ecological management plan. DOC will provide advice on biodiversity, indigenous restoration and management, threatened species habitat and management, and the initiation of forest reserves. DOC should also be consulted if they are neighbours, or if Members are undertaking burning operations within 1km of DOC property.

2.

Regional and District Councils. The SLG Legal Register is a separate document that has been completed and will be supplied to all members. Different regions in New Zealand have different requirements and permitted activities. Members should consult with their Councils and summarise what operations undertaken on their properties are permitted, discretionary, restricted or not permitted activities. Members will then have clear guidelines as to what activities need consent. Generally any activities that have the potential to effect soil, water or air values need consideration. The Legal Register discusses this in depth. Regional Councils also have experts in land and water management. They should be approached for advice when Members are developing their Management plans, and are considering soil and water values. Regional Councils are generally very happy to advise landowners on sustainable land management. They may also be prepared to offer resources if the objective is akin to those of the Council.

3.

Neighbours. Immediate neighbours, or any neighbours that may be affected by operations, should be consulted. Some operations can cause disturbance through noise, dust or air pollution. There may be other environmental effects such as changing the water quality or quantity in waterways, or causing large changes to the visible landscape. Operations such as harvesting will often increase the amount of traffic on local roads, and have the potential to effect the local road systems. There may be positive changes such as fencing off a waterway.

4.

Historic Places Trust. If archaeological or historical sites are present on the property, and have the potential to be effected by operations, then the Historic Places Trust should be contacted. The Group’s Best Management Practices (Part 4) cover the procedure for dealing with archaeological sites. The Legal Register has a helpful contacts list.

5.

Fish and Game. The Fish and Game Council is responsible for maintaining the recreational fisheries and game bird resources in New Zealand. Members should consult them when needing advice on the management of fishing and hunting on their property, and about the management of their waterways and aquatic species.

6.

Forest users. If there are regular forest users such as possum hunters, bee keepers, fishing guides, conservation groups, tramping clubs, etc that use the land under Member ownership, then consultation may be required with these groups.

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Summary of Requirements for 2.7.1: 1. Use Template 2.7.1a to identify who needs to be consulted, and under what circumstances should consultation occur. 2. Use Template 2.7.1b to record who, when and what consultation has occurred, and the outcomes that have arisen from the consultation. 2.7.2

SLG Requirement Iwi are to be consulted regarding any cultural, ecological, economic or spiritual values. SLG Members shall recognise, record and protect such values.

“ Kia whakatomuri te haere ki mua”

“To walk into the future our eyes must be fixed on the past” (From Harmsworth, 1997)

Consultation with tangata whenua: The Resource Management Act (1991) recognises the need for consultation with tangata whenua. As the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand, FSC requires forest managers to consult with iwi. The understandably diverse nature of maoridom can however make such consultation a confusing task. It is important to identify and recognise the tangata whenua of a place. Identify who has authority and who has a relationship to a particular area. There may be more than one iwi/hapu involved. Consult with each. Respect the relationship of each body to a place. In some areas, local land owners will fully understand who is tangata whenua, and who the iwi authority is/are with which they should consult. Group Members should consult iwi in the following circumstances: • • • •

For advice on biodiversity and conservation issues, including threatened species. When Maori archaeological sites are present When using traditional knowledge associated with forest resources When Maori have traditional customary rights to the land and its resources

Protocol: A Group Member should be aware of the protocol regarding payment or koha, or providing a gift, in recognition of the sharing of information and giving of advice. The iwi liaison officer at District Councils will be able to assist you in the appropriate expectations and protocols for koha payments. Maori values are derived from traditional Maori beliefs. There is often great variation in the things that are valued at the community level, but the universal values and beliefs still apply. Land, water, and air are essential ingredients of life, to be respected, cherished and sustained. Everything in the Maori world has a life force, or mauri. Contamination or degradation of natural resources is seen to damage and diminish the life force (te mauri), and affect the well-being of people.

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Historic and cultural heritage is an important part of the environment and identity of Aotearoa New Zealand. There needs to be some form of strategy to identify the indigenous values, and to incorporate them into land management. With greater land intensification and urbanisation, there is increasing concern about the protection of Maori heritage sites. From a Maori point of view, there are increasing concerns around the country related to the modification and destruction of waahi tapu, ancestral sites, archaeological sites and other sites regarded as taonga. As such, Maori values need to be incorporated into land use planning at all levels (Harmswoth, 2001). Members of the Sustainable Landowners Group need to be aware of Maori values and incorporate these values into their land management decision-making processes. Major Cultural and Environmental issues highlighted at hui: (From Harmswoth, 1997) Environmental and Cultural issues

Examples of effects on Maori Values

Water Pollution

Overall concern on contamination and loss of traditional food source areas, deterioration in quality of streams, rivers, estuaries and harbours and destruction of ecosystems, loss of sacredness of many areas

Water Quality

Effects on freshwater and marine ecosystems, mahinga kai areas, effects on mauri, waahi tapu

Sediment runoff / deposition

Effects of degradation of water quality in estuaries, harbours, streams, rivers, coastal areas, effects on mahinga kai and kaimoana

Pesticides; Heavy metals; toxic chemicals

Effects on quality of mahinga kai; kaimoana, concerns about contamination and food poisoning, concerns about health and wellbeing of people.

Ground water contamination from leachates and nitrate contamination

As it affects the total system and re-enters watercourses, effects on traditional food source areas, effects on water supplies, health effects on children.

Nutrification and pollution from farm runoff

Effects on mahinga kai, kai awa (freshwater food), contamination, desecration of waahi tapu sites in and around streams, rivers and lakes

Wetland Management

Destruction of animal, fish and bird habitats, deterioration of water quality, draining of wetlands, modification of landscapes

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Soil Degradation / erosion

Destruction of habitats downstream from erosion events, effects of deposition over waahi tapu areas, such as urupa

Forest/vegetative degradation – sustainable harvest

Effects on cultural values of vegetation, forest, removal and limited access to timber sources for carving, destruction of medicinal plants, effects on cultural harvest of birds, animals etc.

Management of Native Forest

Rangatiratanga, having more authority or control over management of forests, retaining native bush in some areas, protection of waahi tapu and waahi tupuna within forests

Pest Invasion: -Spread of disease -degradation of native forests

-bovine TB, concerns about spread of disease to livestock, concerns about wellbeing of people. -Effects on mahinga kai, loss of medicinal plants, plants for weaving

Control of noxious weeds

Exotic plant invasion and competition; causing loss of native plants special to tangata whenua, threatening native species, limiting plants for medicines and weaving.

Modification of landscapes

Changing or destroying significant landmarks, reference points, modifying / changing river and stream courses, places special to tangata whenua, impacts on waahi tapu and ancestral sites such as pa

Cultural issues: Maintenance / protection of waahi tapu such as urupaa. Management of discrete sites of special significance: culturally significant sites historic sites spiritually significant sites

Alienation from land, lack of authority over things Maori, lack of consultation, lack of acknowledgment of mana whenua status and recognition of tangata whenua. Low priority given to identification and protection of Maori values, and sites regarded significant to tangata whenua. Very little involvement in planning.

One of the most important Maori traditions to be aware of is that traditionally, land was not something that could be owned or traded. Maori did not seek or possess anything – it was more important to belong. This sense of belonging was a belief that one was born out of the land and implied that there was a relationship between people and the land.

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Kaitiakitanga is an important term that is especially relevant to landowners. It denotes the obligation of stewardship and protection. As a term, Kaitiakitanga is most often applied to the obligation of whanua, hapu and iwi to protect the spiritual wellbeing of the natural resources within their mana. It also requires conduct that is respectful of the resources in question (Law Commission, 2001) Other Reasons for Consultation with Maori •

• • • • •

The Resource Management Act 1991and the Historic Places Act 1993 requires consultation with tangata whenua, iwi authorities and runanga. These statutes require protection of cultural values. As Maori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand, FSC requires forest managers to consult with iwi, the Maori of that area. To allow for greater Maori participation in the management of the environment, and to create a better environmental management system drawn from both Maori and Western philosophy Maori have a right to manage the environment, recognised by the Treaty of Waitangi. It allows for raised awareness and understanding of cultural values, and ensures informed decisions are integrated into policy. Helps focus planning and monitoring activities towards locations of high cultural value/threat of degradation or loss, and provides a basis for investment in production or conservation.

How to begin the Consultation process The diverse nature of Maoridom often makes consultation a confusing task. Initial contact, to establish the necessary consultation process, should be made through one or some of the following: • • • • •

Department of Conservation Maori Consultants Maori community law groups Marae’s/Runanga District or Regional Council

Once the appropriate iwi and contact person(s) has been identified, a phone call should be made, or letter sent, outlining your objectives as a Group Member, and detailing your desire to consult with iwi. It is important to establish a relationship with a contact representative. The initial consultation should focus on explaining the location and type of change that is proposed, and then seeking to determine what, if any, spiritual or cultural values are relevant to the land being discussed. Common Problems in undertaking consultation with tangata whenua Sustainable Landowner Group Members may have some problems in obtaining Maori values information when they undertake the consultation process. This may include having difficulty finding the right people to talk with and having difficulty finding the right types of information. Other common problems are having a lack of a centralised place to find information and a lack of records available of Maori values information through successive generations. By contacting those organisations listed above, Members should be in a good position to make significant progress in consulting Maori (Harmsworth, 1997).

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FSC Rules applicable to 2.7.2 • The SLG Member recognises traditional practices or knowledge of Tangata Whenua. Tangata Whenua has given permission for its use. • When traditional knowledge is used commercially by the SLG Member, compensation to iwi is formally agreed to before operations begin.

Summary of Requirements for 2.7.2 1. Consult with relevant iwi when necessary 2. Ensure the rules above are adhered to. 2.7.3 SLG Requirement Establish and document the customary rights currently existing. The concept of customary rights encompasses a lot of considerations. Customary rights may include legal agreements or agreements that have been reached over a handshake. Members should think about who has legal access to their property or resources. For example, the Power Lines companies, fisherman or hunters, grazing contractors, food gatherers, water users. The objective of this is to recognise and protect the Customary Rights of these stakeholders. All customary rights should be recognised, and recorded on Template 2.7.3a. Maori considerations have been discussed previously, and should be revisited in this requirement. 2.7.4 SLG Requirement Support Local Communities • •

Ensure local people are given preference for work. Support local processors and suppliers wherever possible.

Most people want to live in healthy, vibrant communities. By supporting those people in our local communities we are aiding the wellbeing and health of that community. SLG Members need to, wherever possible, give local communities preference for employment, training or other services. By doing so, Members will aid the building of social capital in the region. There is also a need to support local processors and suppliers wherever possible. To do so makes economic, social and environmental sense. For example, supplying logs to a local sawmill means increased employment in the region (enhanced social capital), lower transportation costs to get to the point of sale (increased economic benefit), and therefore lower environmental cost through reduced fossil fuel consumption. This is common sense business, which most Members will be implementing on a daily basis already.

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Summary of Requirement for 2.7.4. Members need to document that local processors and suppliers have been given an opportunity to purchase forest products from their forests and/or the opportunity for employment. If local processors can match that value being offered by other processors, then local processors shall be given preference.

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Module 8: Employment Requirements

2.8

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

2.8.1

SLG Requirement Employment must be non-discriminatory and comply with personnel and workers rights laws. Workers Rights: The Employment Relations Act specifies the legal rights of workers in New Zealand. Employment in New Zealand is also covered by the International Labour Organisation mandate. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is a specialised agency of the UN, which seeks the promotion of social justice and internationally recognised human and labour rights. Founded in 1919, the initial motivation was humanitarian, with worker conditions becoming less and less acceptable. The ever increasing numbers of workers causing unrest, due to the unacceptable nature of their working conditions, added extra incentive to the need for a constitution. The third motivation was economic. Because of its inevitable effect on the cost of production, any industry or country adopting social reform would find itself at a disadvantage vis-à-vis its competitors. The ILO, by way of conventions and recommendations, sets minimum standards in the form of conventions and recommendations. These standards relate to: • Freedom of association • The right to organise • Collective bargaining • Abolition of forced labour • Equality of opportunity and treatment • Other standards regulating conditions across the entire spectrum of work related issues The ILO promotes the development of independent employers’ and workers’ organisations and provides training and advisory services to these organisations. SLG Members should encourage workers to openly discuss issues with colleagues and their management. Management should act upon these issues. Other Employment Legislation SLG Members should also demonstrate compliance with the Employment Relations Act (2000). The Wages Protection Act (1983), the Holidays Act (1991), the Minimum Wages Act (1985). Details of these acts, and the obligations of employers, can be found on the Department of Labour’s website www.ers.dol.govt.nz. The Code of Practice for Companies and Employers engaging forestry employees has been developed by industry and union representatives of the labour skills working group. This is available through the FSC website. Summary of Requirement for 2.8.1 SLG Members must ensure they are abiding with personnel and workers rights laws.

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2.8.2 SLG Requirement Employees must ensure that workers are safe in their workplace. Group Members must have a functioning Health and Safety Plan for their forest operations that all staff are aware of. The Health and Safety in Employment Act. All land management operations need to comply with the Health and Safety in Employment Act (1991). The importance of providing a safe working environment for all personnel should not be over-looked. As an employer, the Health and Safety in Employment Act requires you to take all practicable steps to ensure the safety and health of workers and others while at work. You are required to: • Provide and maintain a safe working environment • Provide and maintain facilities for the safety and health of employees • Ensure that machinery and equipment in the place of work is designed, made, set up and maintained to be safe for workers • Ensure that employees are not exposed to significant hazards • Provide procedures to deal with emergencies that may arise while people are at work, such as accidents, earthquake, fire, flood etc. The process set out in the Act requires all employers to have systems in place for identifying and controlling hazards. Step One: Step Two: Step Three: Step Four:

Identify Hazards Assess hazards to determine their priority Control Hazards. If the hazard is significant you must eliminate it, or if not practical, you must isolate it. Investigate accidents and “near misses”.

Responsibilities to the Public: SLG members must take all practicable steps to ensure the safety of visitors, customers, neighbours and the general public when they are on or near your place of work. Employee Responsibilities: Employees must: • Take all practicable steps to ensure their own safety and the safety of others • Not knowingly expose themselves or others to harm. Ie. This includes the need for them to use safety equipment if it is provided.

Regulations and Codes of Practice: Members also need to comply with regulations issued under the Act. These set minimum standards for particular equipment, processes and other hazards. Codes of Practice, such as the Forestry Code of Practice, set out recommended work practices and standards to help employers meet their obligations under the Act.

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Summary of Requirements for 2.8.2. Each Group Member must have a Healthy and Safety Plan for their workplace. 1.

Members can produce their own Health and Safety Plan, or use the Template SLG/HSE/01. This template is a Health and Safety Plan template that will meet the requirements of the Health and Safety in Employment Act (1991). The checksheet below should be used as a quick guide to how your systems are currently complying with the requirements of the Act.

Yes

Systems

No

Has your place of work an effective method to systematically identify hazards (particularly significant hazards)? Have appropriate controls been identified and developed for each significant hazard? Are the above two steps recorded? Are you familiar with the regulations and/or codes of practice relevant to your business? Information and Training Are employees provided with information on all hazards to which they are exposed, or which they may create? Are all employees adequately trained in the safe use of all plant, equipment and clothing they may use or handle? Are all employees who do not have the knowledge and experience to perform a job or task adequately supervised?

2.

Members must relate their Health and Safety Plan to their own land management operations and complete appropriately. The Health and Safety Plan must be communicated to employees. Employees should be made aware of the Health and Safety Policy; their responsibilities; identification of hazards and how to control these hazards; any emergency procedures and first aid applicable to their work; and, the need to report and record accidents. Other parts of the Health and Safety Plan should be communicated to employees.

3.

Members need to monitor worker health and safety. Template SLG/HSE/02 provides a structure for annually summarising total worked hours of all staff; the number of lost time accidents; and the number of lost time days for those accidents. The over riding objective for Members is to continually reduce the number of near miss and loss time accidents, over time. Monitoring provides the best way to gauge the success of this undertaking.

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FarmSafe and ACC FarmSafe is a programme designed to make the farm environment safer. It has been put together by the Federated Farmers, ACC and Agriculture New Zealand. The FarmSafe programme is a one-day interactive seminar that helps you address potential hazards around your farm. It covers industry issues, practical advice, and identification of potential hazards and identification of possible solutions. SLG farming Members are encouraged to enrol themselves and their employees in this course.

2.8.3 SLG Requirement Requirements for training •

• •

Health and Safety: SLG Members need to ensure that all people working within the bounds of land management are appropriately trained for the tasks they are performing. Supervision should be appropriate to the level of training that has been undertaken by the individual. Specific FSC Requirements: It is an FSC requirement that all forest workers working within FSC certified forests are aware of the FSC Principles and Criteria Part one, page 1/8. Employees need to be trained in their specific areas of employment, to ensure the appropriate implementation of the SLG management plan. Employees and contractors need to be trained in the recognition of rare, threatened and endangered species.

Training can be by way of practical demonstrations, field days or seminars, formal qualifications or reading material. It should be appropriate to the type of work undertaken, the skills required in that work, and the environmental and social effects associated with that work. •

All training undertaken by any employee should be documented, as per Template 2.8.3a.

2.8.4 SLG Requirement for disputes process It is important that a disputes resolution process exists within the structure of the SLG. A dispute may occur between stakeholders, Group Members, WFS or the Certifying agency. It is good practice to have a procedure in place that provides for a simple, methodical way of resolving the dispute. Disputes between Group Members, or Members and Stakeholders.

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The following disputes process should be followed: 1.

Keep a written record of any dispute, using Template 2.8.4a

2

The Group Manager of the Group will investigate complaints about an individual shareholder from either another shareholder or an external stakeholder. The objective of the investigation is to establish the validity of the complaint and find a solution agreeable to both parties.

3

If either the complainant or the defendant is dissatisfied with either the outcome or the process of the investigation then they have one week from notification of the outcome to lodge an appeal with the Group Manager.

4

The Group Manager may suggest arbitration as the best option for resolving the dispute. A list of arbitrators will be prepared by the Group Manager and given to each party. Both parties must agree to the arbitrator chosen. Once agreed to, the arbitrator’s decision will be binding on all parties. The arbitrator should be familiar with land and forest management, have had arbitrating experience, and be familiar with FSC.

The document SLG Rules and Procedures contain the disputes and complaints processes in full.

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Module 9: Plantation Requirements

2.9

Plantation Forest Requirements FSC Criterion 5.1 states that “Forest Management should strive towards economic viability, while taking into account the full environmental, social, and operational costs of production, and ensuring the investments necessary to maintain the ecological productivity of the forest”

Products from the plantation forest, and from the landscape in entirety, are providing the economic sustainability component of the three pronged economic, environmental and social sustainability focus. In modules 1.0 to 8.0 the WFS Sustainable Landowners Group Certification Scheme has focussed on environmental and social sustainability issues, with the knowledge that doing so presents benefits in their own rights – a cleaner environment, a healthier society, and a higher standard of living. By culminating these efforts and adding to it a plantation forest management plan, SLG members are well placed to gain the rewards of this hard work they have undertaken. As discussed in the first handbook, plantation forestry is sustainable under correct husbandry practices. It is when the husbandry practices are poorly planned, poorly managed, or unbalanced within the landscape, that plantation forestry becomes unsustainable. This chapter focuses on those practices directly relevant to the management of the plantation component of the landscape. The end result will be a plantation forest management plan. Together with the other completed management plans listed on page 2/71, these will make the final management plan. 2.9.1 Background Multiple Forest Products Forest Management should strive to strengthen and diversify the local economy, avoiding dependence on a single forest product. SLG Members should manage their forests for both timber and non-timber products. The Biodiversity Module 2.2 of the Group Management Plan outlines some extractive and non-extractive products that are common to forests. Members should draw upon this information when documenting their Forest Management Plan. Diversity of Plantation Species Forest Management should avoid dependence on a single species in the plantation forest. The Biodiversity module in Handbook One discussed the potential environmental effects associated with monocultures in plantation forests. The current monoculture of radiata pine that comprises over 90% of New Zealand’s plantation resource makes the whole industry far more vulnerable to the effects of a pest or disease outbreak. Diversity in species is critical to reducing this potential effect. As part of the Forest Management Plan, Members need to assess the environmental and economic benefit of various tree crop species, and justify their selection in the Forest Management Plan.

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A species mix shall be chosen which: 1. Is well adapted to local conditions 2. Supplies local markets, and a range of markets 3. Enables the Member to respond to changing market conditions. Plantation forests should also encompass a mix of genotypes, a mix of age classes and or rotation lengths, and a variety of silvicultural regimes. Native species should always be considered in the establishment of plantations. Sustainable Rates of Harvest Forest Management needs to maintain an annual statement of total wood volumes harvested from the forest. When Members plan the size of any clearcut, they need to pay due attention to : 1.

2. 3. 4.

The ecological effects. What effect will the harvesting operation have on the indigenous understorey? What will be the effect on neighbouring stands or reserves? The effects on the water quality and yield. What is the erosion potential? How can this be minimised, etc. What will be the visual landscape effects of the operation? What about when combined with the effects of other land use operations? What do the Regional and District Plans encourage or discourage?

If the plantation area borders any area of significant indigenous reserve, this must be taken into account when planning the harvest operation. Similarly, if the undergrowth in the plantation forest is significant, then management must aim to maintain this biodiversity as much as possible. By harvesting smaller areas over long time periods, forest managers are allowing the habitat and biodiversity of the area to remain in a functional state. As discussed earlier, a well planned landscape ecosystem will provide buffer zones and wildlife corridors to ensure important species are looked after. The Harvesting Effects Assessment, undertaken prior to beginning any harvesting operation, will put a lot of these things into context. Members need to ensure that these assessments are completed prior to undertaking operations. Enough time should be allowed to ensure action can be taken to remedy any potential significant effects that may arise from these assessments. Matching forest products to local processor requirements. As discussed in the Community Objectives, there is a need for SLG Members to support local processors wherever possible. Consequently, it is necessary to match the plantation species selection and the silviculture regimes for these species, with the market “product requirement”. The justification for the silviculture regime chosen needs to be outlined in the Forest Management Plan. Minimising waste from harvesting operations. Part 3.7 in the SLG Management Handbook discusses the importance of efficient resource use, and the need to reduce waste. This rule holds fast in harvesting operations, where excessive log waste can be viewed as under-optimising the log resource. However, it is important to realise that as much foliage and non-log product should be left on the forest floor, as possible,

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to add to the nutrient recycling process, and to minimise the potential for runoff and erosion. The harvesting plan should detail plans to maximise the recovery of log products. Monitoring will verify that this is being implemented. The Design and Layout of the plantations must promote the protection, restoration and conservation of indigenous forest. 1.

The landscape map (1.1) will depict the Group Requirements, discussed in the Biodiversity module, of wildlife corridors, streamside zones and a mosaic of different crops and rotations. This will also partly achieve the objective of maintaining a complementary visual landscape.

2.

Also marked on the map should be the plantation forest features, such as ďŹ re ponds, tracks and access ways, powerlines and other aerial hazards; plus, any historic or archaeological sites or other protected areas.

3.

The map must have other basic map information, such as the Northing, the Forest name, a scale, a legend and date.

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Rules Related to Plantation Forest Management: 1.

The use of biological control agents shall be restricted to those approved for use and release under the HSNO act. Any use or release shall be in strict accordance with the conditions placed on such use or release by ERMA.

2.

Field use of genetically modified organisms is prohibited, and research on GMOs, where the intent is for release is prohibited.

3.

Indigenous Forest conversion to plantation forest shall not occur. The rules are: •

4.

Any area of 5 hectares of greater which has an actual or emerging predominance of naturally occurring indigenous tree species shall not be converted for other land use. An indigenous tree species is classed as any woody plant which ultimately forms part of the tree canopy of a naturally occurring forest. Any natural indigenous forest vegetation of between 1 and 5 hectares in area with an average canopy height of at least 6m shall be protected. There is recognition that, in some instances, some small pockets of native vegetation within a plantation forest management area cannot practically be excluded from disturbance.

Any significant natural areas, or areas recommended under the PNAP reports, shall be protected. The following areas shall be protected. • • • •

Any indigenous habitat of rare, threatened or endangered species Geopreservation sites and geothermal sites. Dunelands and wetlands Riparian Margins of 20 metres either side of waterways more than 3m wide, or if waterways are smaller than this, as per SLG Best Management Practices.

The following Best Management Practice guides must be referred, see Part Six for more information. BMP 01 BMP 02 BMP 03 BMP 04 BMP 05 BMP 06 BMP 07 BMP 08 BMP 09 BMP 10

Operational processes Ground based harvesting Cable harvesting Burning operations Earthworks Chemical application Planting Fuel transport, storage and refuelling Mechanical preparation Riparian management

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Module 9: Plantation Requirements

Summary of Requirements for 2.9.1 Members shall produce a Forest Management Plan. To fulfill the FSC requirements for producing a certifiable Forest Management Plan, Members must work through the following requirements: 1. 2.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Specify the Management Objectives. Describe the Plantation forest resources to be managed, the environmental limitations, the land use and ownership status, profiles of adjacent lands and a description of socio-economic conditions. Describe the silvicultural system planned, and justify. Provide rationale for the rate of annual harvest, and for the species selection. Make provisions for the monitoring of forest growth and dynamics. Describe the environmental safeguards, based on environmental assessments Provide plans for the identification and protection of rare, threatened and endangered species. Provide maps describing the forest resource base including any protected areas, planned management activities and land ownership Describe and justify the harvesting techniques and equipment to be used over the forest. Provide short term operational plans, together with strategic plans focussed on longer outlooks Provide a full list of timber and non timber products Provide a Monitoring Plan. Refer chapter 2.10 for details.

Additional Documentation Requirements necessary for FSC Certification: 1. Best Management Practices that ensure all forest management operations minimise adverse effects on the environment, and enhance the environment wherever possible (as per Part 4) 2. Forest Health surveillance plan (as per Template 2.5.8a) 3. Landscape Biodiversity plan (as per Templates 2.2.4a, 2.2.5a, 2.2.6a, 2.2.7a, 2.2.8a, 2.2.10a) 4. Landscape Map;- outlining the indigenous reserves, riparian zones, areas planned for restoration and regeneration. 5. Fire Management Plan (as per Part 7). Also refer to the website nrfa.fire.org.nz/publications. 6. Health and Safety Policy (as per Part 8 and Template 7.2b) 7. Integrated Pest Management Plan (as per Template 2.5.1a, 2.5.2a, 2.5.3a, 2.5.4a, 2.5.5a, 2.5.6a, 2.5.7a and 2.6.3a).

The documents listed above need to be appended in each SLG Member’s Forest Management Plan. Written interpretation of the template’s information must be included within the core of the Forest Management Plan.

Group Members can refer to the Pre-certification/surveillance Audit (Part 5) to monitor their compliance with the SLG requirements. Members should check this list prior to advising the Group Manager that they are ready for their pre-certification audit.

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MODULE 10: Administration Requirements

2.10

Administration requirements for Group Members Documentation and Record Keeping FSC certification documentation should be filed in an easily recoverable, well-formatted manner. By completing the requirements and templates in the Group Management Plan, together with required legal documents, each Group Member will have the necessary documentation for FSC certification. Keeping it filed in this manner will make for ease of access, management and auditing. Necessary Records Prior to the Group Management certification Audit (Part 5), each Group Member needs to forward to the Sustainable Landowners Group Manager, at WFS, the following information: 1.

2. 3. 4.

5. 6. 7.

Evidence of tenure. Documents describing the legal status of the land, such as a copy of the Certificate of Title, joint venture agreements and registered rights of way. A forest map, with clear boundaries A stakeholder consulting list A summary of areas of forest composition. Species, age classes and regime designation. The National exotic forest description (NEFD) has designated regimes, as follows: • Pruned, with production thinning • Pruned, with waste thinning • Unpruned Framing with production thinning • Unpruned Framing with waste thinning A summary of stand records. Planting and silviculture, fertiliser application. A Management Plan for the forest A summary of monitoring results

Monitoring templates are provided for these documentation requirements (Part 4). This information must be supplied to the Group Manager prior to the audit assessment. Checklists throughout the Group Management Plan provide a summary of the documentation requirements for FSC certification. In addition, Group Members must keep records on applicable and legally prescribed fees, royalties, and taxes. Group Members should file these records and keep available as they may be requested.

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Module 11: Monitoring and Assessment Requirements

2.11

Monitoring and Assessment Requirements

FSC Principle 8 states “Monitoring shall be conducted to assess the condition of the forest, yields of forest products, chain of custody, management activities and their social and environmental impacts”

SLG Members need to undertake monitoring to ensure the requirements in the Group Management Plan are being achieved. As such, SLG Group Members need to monitor the following aspects of their forest operations: 1.

The condition of the forest. During harvest operations and upon completion of harvesting. Use the harvest monitoring form, as appended. Normally the forest harvesting company will be responsible for environmental monitoring. Monitoring Template Mon/01.

2.

Prior to beginning the harvesting operations, SLG Members must complete the Harvest Planning and Harvest Environmental Monitoring forms, as appended. Normally the forest harvesting company will be responsible for environmental planning, monitoring and management. Monitoring Template Mon/01.

3.

The yields of forestry products. Collate production figures from harvesting operations. This will allow comparison of site productivity over time. Monitoring Template Mon/06.

4.

Chain of custody. “Chain of Custody” is the process of tracing certified wood from the forest to the final product. When a tree is felled in a certified forest it is sold and may then go through a whole range of manufacturing processes before it becomes a final product. At each stage in the process, it is important to verify that any wood being classified as “certified” really did originate from an FSC-certified forest. The whole group’s certification would be at risk if it was ever shown that uncertified logs from other forests were being sold as certified. The Sustainable Landowners Group is responsible for the beginning of the Chain of Custody process; from the moment the tree is felled, to the point where the log is on- sold to a new owner. The new owner is likely to be a mill, the export buyer at a wharf gate, or, a central processing yard. If a SLG Member wishes to sell to the FSC marketplace, they must use a certified chain of custody log tracking system. This can either be the WFS Log Tracking System, or another log buyers, or the Group Member could develop their own system if they choose to. If an approved chain of custody system is used, the FSC Trademark logo and approved FSC Product Statements can be used. These statements are strictly controlled. If any SLG Member wants to use these Product Statements they should contact the Group Manager for more details.

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Module 11: Monitoring and Assessment Requirements

Trees sold in a stumpage or tender system will only retain the FSC certified status if the log buyer has chain of custody certification. Thus, the management control of the forest products changes to the log buyer once that buyer has successfully won the right to harvest the woodlot. 5. 6. 7.

8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Costs, productivity and efficiency of management. Collate and store these figures. Monitoring Templates Mon/05 and Mon/06 Contractor compliance shall be monitored using the monitoring template Mon/04. Environmental and social impact assessments shall be monitored by undertaking these assessments prior to beginning operations. Over time, these impact assessments will show changes in social attitude and environmental impact. Quality control targets need to be monitored to ensure that operational targets are being met. This includes Health and safety checks, log quality checks. Forest Health, as outlined. Conservation and ecology within the landscape is to be monitored as per Template 2.2.6a. The non-timber forest use form needs to be completed annually. Any resource consent used within Member’s properties shall be recorded.

Results of the monitoring will be incorporated into the Group Management Plan. Members are responsible for sending a copy of the monitoring results to the Group Manager. The summarised information and any apparent trends will be used internally within the SLG, to aid improvement in management practices and management decision making within Member’s forests. Summaries will be made available to the public upon request. Annual SLG requirement 1. In addition to the annual monitoring and assessment requirements. Group Members must keep documented records on forest operations, consultation and all the requirements of the SLG Group Management Plan. 2.

Group Members must continue to consult with stakeholders prior to undertaking operations that may affect them.

3.

Genetically modified organisms (GMO’s) are not to be used within the forests owned by Group Members.

4.

Customary rights, non-timber forest uses and recreational access must continue to be recognised by Group Members, and documented appropriately.

5.

The SLG Best Management Requirements must be followed when undertaking forest operations.

6.

Group Members must monitor worker’s health and safety.

7.

All forestry personnel must be informed on the FSC Principles and Criteria.

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Module 12: Audit Requirements

2.12

Audit Requirements To achieve effective implementation of the GMP it is necessary to monitor the operations and activities within Member’s landscapes. It is also important to audit the filing and documentation systems of Member’s and of the environmental and social impact assessments that have been carried out.

2.12.1

Audit

There are three audit processes undertaken within the SLG. 1.

Internal audits. Group Members are encouraged to implement audits of their own management and operations, to ensure compliance with the GMP.

2.

WFS Group Manager audits. The Group Manager has an important role in ensuring that all Group Members’ operations are up to the standards of FSC, as outlined in the GMP. The initial audit carried out by the Group Manager will be the pre certification audit. Following acceptance as a certified member of the SLG, the Group Manager will schedule regular surveillance monitoring audits. This is discussed further in 2.12.2 ‘Monitoring Audits’. The Group Manager can notify another WFS employee, or suitably qualified person to carry out these audits.

3.

Certifying agency audits. The FSC certifying agency will initially audit a sample of the SLG Members. If the forest management within these forests is of the correct standard, then FSC certification will be given to the Group Manager, on behalf of the SLG. The certifying agency will then undertake regular monitoring audits, over a cross sample of SLG Members, to ensure that the FSC standards are being met within the Group.

2.12.2

WFS Group Member Audit

Initial Pre-Certification Audit: 1.

Upon joining the Sustainable Landowners Group, each Member receives the SLG Handbook and this Group Management Plan. The Group Member must then ensure that their management complies with the requirements laid out in this SLG GMP.

2.

The Group Member is responsible for notifying the SLG Group Manager that they are ready for their SLG audit.

3.

The Group Manager undertakes to audit the Group Member’s operations and associated documentation within 30 days of receiving notification.

4.

Upon completing the site inspection, and completing the requirements of the SLG audit, the Group Manager will send a full audit report to the Group Member. This will include recommendations and any CARs that may need completion.

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Module 12: Audit Requirements

5.

The Group Member is responsible for ensuring that when CARs are completed. They shall notify the Group Manager that this is so.

6.

Depending on the CARs issued, the Group Manager can accept the Group Member as a certified Member upon viewing suitable documentation, or upon a second visit. There may be service charges associated with the second Group Manager visit.

7.

If the Group Member fails to fulfil the SLG requirements again, they are required to go through steps 5 and 6 again. Any unavoidable costs associated with a subsequent visit by the Group Manager will be charged to the Group Member.

The document “Sustainable Landowners Group Rules and Procedures” outlines the full CAR procedure. (Corrective Action Procedure).

Monitoring Audits: 1.

Certified Group Members will continue to be audited by the Group Manager to ensure that they are continuing to comply with the SLG GMP. The frequency of these surveillance audits will be largely dependent on the significance (risk of environmental impact occurring) of the operations being undertaken within each Member’s forest, and the size of individual Member’s estates.

2.

The Group Manager will, by 30 January each year, release a schedule of Member’s forests to be audited within the following 12 months, to all Group Members.

3.

Audits may also be undertaken if there have been complaints against certain Group Members, or if there is reason to believe that a Group Member is not complying with the SLG GMP. There may also be a need to check that previous CARs have been completed. In these circumstances, the Group Manager will give the Group Member 30 days notice of the intent to audit.

4.

Steps 4,5 and 6 are to be followed, as per the Group Manager’s initial audit pro cedure above. CARs will include a date for Group Members to notify the Group Manager of CAR completion. The length of time allowed to fulfil the requirements of the CAR will vary, but a maximum of 3 months will be allowed. Refer to The document “Sustainable Landowners Group Rules and Procedures” for guidance on the full CAR procedure.

5.

If the Group Member fails to remedy the CARs, then the expulsion process may begin.

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Module 12: Audit Requirements

2.12.3 Group Audit Records Audit Records are processed as follows: Where Filed Filing cabinet, and electronic file of summaryClient file, Group Manager’s office. Original to be kept by Group Manager Retention Period

Summaries for 10 years

Distribution

Summary to SLG Members

Responsibility

Group Manager, SLG

2.12.4 Certifying Agency Audits The certifying agency elected by Wrightson Forestry Services will carry out an annual audit of a portion of SLG Group Members. These audits may be more frequent than annually if: • There is an order of magnitude change in the number of new Group Members entering the SLG. • There is an order of magnitude change in the area of forest covered by the Group Certificate • There is a significant change in the type of membership of the Group in terms of size, forest type, location, management or any other relevant issues. The Certifying agency will follow the requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council in auditing Group Certification Schemes. Generally, the certifying agency will focus on achieving a random sample of Group Members. However, they will also focus on any Group Members that have had recent CARs, or major complaints against them, or are undertaking significant operations such as harvesting or roading. It is also likely that those Group Members with larger estates will be audited more frequently.

The Process that the Certifying Agency will undertake when carrying out annual audits is as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

1

Certifying Agency to notify the Group Manager of the audit schedule SLG Group Manager to notify all Group Members who are to be audited. Certifying agency to complete the audit, and file a report to the Group Manager, with any CARs attached. The Group Manager is to notify each Group Member who has received a CAR, and ensure they understand the CAR and the necessity to remedy it. Group Members are responsible for remedying the CAR, and then notifying the Group Manager. If the Group Member fails to remedy the CARs, then the expulsion process, outlined in the document “Sustainable Landowners Group Rules and Procedures”, will begin.

“Land Environments of New Zealand” and the “Technical Guide” 2003. Ministry for the Environment and

Landcare Research. David Bateman. Auckland.

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PART THREE

Part Three:

Templates


PART THREE

2.2.3a

Indigenous Reserve Surveillance Checklist

2.2.5a

Indigenous Reserve Management Plan

2.2.6a

Indigenous Reserve Monitoring Plan

2.2.7a

Bird Monitoring Record

2.2.8a

Indigenous Reserve Restoration Plan

2.2.10a

5 Year Summary Management Plan for Biodiversity

2.3.1a

Waterway Assessment Sheet

2.3.2a

Social and Environmental Impact Assessment

2.3.3a

Waterway Management Plan

2.5.1a

Animal Pest Management

2.5.2a

Pest Management Monitoring Form

2.5.3a

Weed Management Action Plan

2.5.4a

Weed Management Monitoring Form

2.5.7a

Plantation Forest Health Monitoring Checksheet

2.5.8a

Forest Health Surveillance Plan

2.6.2a

Chemical Use Form

2.6.2b

Chemical Inventory Sheet

2.6.4a

Herbicide Pre-Operation Checklist

2.7.1a

IdentiďŹ cation of Consultation Requirements

2.7.1b

Stakeholder Consultation Record

2.7.3a

Customary Rights Record

2.8.3a

Training Record

2.8.4a

Disputes Record

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PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.2.3a INDIGENOUS RESERVE SURVEILLANCE CHECKLIST Reserve Block (as marked on map) Size (ha) .......................................................

Date ..................................................................

Aspect and Landscape Unit (eg face/gully) .............................................................................................................................................................. Soils ................................................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. Microhabitats existing ...................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. Altitude

.............................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................. Reserve Classification (from Reserve Classification Index) ........................................................... Protection Rating (from Protection Rating Index) .............................................................................. Note any Features that make this Reserve significant……………………………........................... ………………………………………………………………………………………………........................... Historical Disturbance

....................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Forest Canopy Composition ........................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Ground Cover Species ........................................................................................................................

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PART THREE

Special/Unusual/Vulnerable Species .................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. Note any obvious effects the weeds / pests are having on the Reserve:…………............................... …………………………………………………………………………………………………......................... …………………………………………………………………………………………………........................ From the surveillance checksheet, describe the condition of the forest:…………................................ ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Estimate (Tick appropriate level)

Indicator Birds

1 2 3 4

� � � �

Very few birds and only 1-2 species Occasional birds and 2-4 species Common birds and 5-10 species Abundant birds and >10 species

Canopy Condition

1

2

3

Very sparse foliage, many large holes, dieback >20% of tree crowns Foliage sparse in some areas, canopy holes common. Some dieback. Foliage mostly dense, only occasional sparse area, canopy holes rare, very occasional dieback. Abundant dense foliage over whole canopy, no canopy holes or dieback.

4

Understorey

1

2

3 4

Ground cover

� �

1

2

3

4 �

Notes Species etc

No browse palatable species 45cm-1.35m. Understorey bare. Very few browse palatable species 45cm1.35m. Scattered seedlings of less palatable species. Moderate browse palatable species 45cm1.35m. Other species relatively abundant. Abundant browse palatable species and other species present Bare soil, rock/gravel >20% of forest floor. Ground vegetation (ferns, moss, seedlings etc <45cm tall) <20%. Leaf litter on remainder of forest floor. Scattered bare soil and rock. Ground vegetation (ferns, moss, seedlings etc <45cm tall) <20%. Leaf litter on remainder of forest floor. Bare soil, rock absent or very uncommon. Ground vegetation (ferns, moss, seedlings etc <45cm tall) 20%-50%. Leaf litter on remainder of forest floor. No bare soil, rock, or eroding soil. Ground vegetation (ferns, moss, seedlings etc <45cm tall), abundant, 50%-100%. Leaf litter on remainder of forest floor. Part 3 2.2.3a

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PART THREE

Vine Weeds

1 2 3 4

� � � �

Very common, >50% canopy cover. Common, 10%-50% canopy cover. Occasional, up to 10% canopy cover. None present.

Shrub/Tree Weeds

1

2

3

Possums

4 1 2 3 4 1

� � � � � �

Deer

2 3 4 1

� � � �

Very common, >50% understorey or canopy cover. Common, 10%-50% understorey or canopy cover. Occasional, up to 10% understorey or canopy cover. None present Very common, cover >50% ground area. Common, 10%-50% ground area. Occasional, up to 10% ground area. None present. Abundant fresh sign (droppings, pad runs, bark scratching and biting). Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Sign uncommon, often quite old. No sign. Abundant fresh sign (dropping, major tracks and hoof prints). Occasional deer may be disturbed. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Sightings of deer uncommon. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. No sign. Abundant fresh sign (droppings, major tracks and hoof prints, bedding areas). Goats commonly heard, seen or smelt. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Occasional goats heard, seen or smelt. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. No sign. Abundant fresh sign (rooting, droppings and hoof prints). Pigs commonly seen or heard nearby. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old No sign. Abundant fresh sign (droppings, major tracks and hoof prints). Stock heard or seen throughout area. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Occasional stock heard or seen, generally confined to scattered areas on edge. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. Only near edges. No sign. No fencing Some fencing, for example, one side, or fence poorly maintained with large breaks. Most of boundary fenced, includes all areas where stock access likely. Some small recent breaks. Secure, intact fencing around whole area.

Ground cover weeds

2 3 4 Goats

Pigs

1

� � �

2

3 4 1

� � �

2 3 4 Stock

Fencing

1

� � � �

2

3

4 1 2

� � �

3

4

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PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

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PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.2.5a INDIGENOUS RESERVE MANAGEMENT PLAN MANAGEMENT OF EXISTING INDIGENOUS RESERVES Block .............................................................................................................................................................. Reserve Classification .............................................................................................................................................................. Protection Rating .............................................................................................................................................................. Management Goals .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Threats .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Management Targets .............................................................................................................................................................. ...............................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................................

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.2.6a INDIGENOUS RESERVE MONITORING PLAN For Forest Area Date Monitoring objective (eg operation outcome, conservation outcome, surveillance)

Indicators (eg litterfall, canopy cover/weed spread)

Monitoring methods and design (eg plots,/photopoints etc)

Description of Monitoring System to be undertaken (Timing/Resources/ Requirements/ Frequency)

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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PART THREE

Sustainable Landowners Group

Group Manager’s Use Only Client

Date File

2.2.7a BIRD MONITORING RECORD Block Plot Number

Date Finish time

Start time

Species

Seen*

Tally

Fieldworker

Total Number

Heard*

*If seen and heard, record it only as seen Notes: (eg uncommon species observed outside the transect)

Temperature (circle appropriate number) 1 2 3 4 5 6

Freezing Cold Cool Mild Warm Hot

<0oC 0-5oC 5-11oC 11-16oC 16-22oC >22oC

Rain: Mist (M), Rain (R), Hail (H), Snow (S) (Circle one and grade on following scale) 0 None 1 Dripping foliage 2 Drizzle 3 Light 4 Moderate –abandon assessment 5 Heavy – abandon assessment

Wind (circle appropriate number) 0 1 2

3

Leaves still or move with noise (Beaufort 0 & 1) Leaves rustle (Beaufort 2) Leaves and branches in constant motion (Beaufort 3 & 4) – abandon assessment Branches or trees sway (Beaufort 5, 6 & 7) – abandon assessment

Flowering, fruiting – record details Plant species

Fruit or flowers

Rare, occasional, common abundant or very abundant

Notes

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.2.8a INDIGENOUS RESERVE RESTORATION PLAN

Reserve .............................................................................................................................................................. Classification (from the SLG Indigenous Restoration Index) .............................................................................................................................................................. Multi – Purpose Reserve functions: …………………………………………………………………………………………………....................... …………………………………………………………………………………………………...................... Management Goals .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Threats .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Management Targets ..............................................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................................

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.2.10a 5 YEAR SUMMARY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR BIODIVERSITY If

there is insufficient room on this document for detail, SLG Members should use their own document for recording. List all Reserves and Classifications within Landscape: ................................................................................................................................................................ Describe the main Reserve Management that is to be undertaken over the next Five Years.

200_

200_

200_

200_

200_

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.3.1a WATERWAY ASSESSMENT SHEET Name of Waterway ............................................................................................................................................................. Current Users of this Waterway .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. List of Stakeholders affected by the water quality in this waterway .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. List invertebrate, fish and bird species present in waterway and riparian zone .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. List indigenous vegetation in the waterway and riparian zone ............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................ List pests and weed in the waterway and riparian zone .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. List activities and operations that influence this waterway

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PART THREE

What condition is the waterway currently in? .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. What was the waterway like historically. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. How did Maori use the waterway? .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. What values do Maori attach to the waterway? .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. How has the waterway changed over time? .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. What waterway problems are arising on my property? How can they be remedied? .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Future Goals for this Waterway .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. ..............................................................................................................................................................

Part 3 2.3.1a GMP PART 3: Templates

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PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.3.2a Social and Environmental Impact Assessment � � � �

Members should use this checksheet prior to beginning operations. The Checksheet should be completed within a time period that will allow Members to undertake any consultation or action required to mitigate environmental or social impacts This does not replace job prescriptions. Job Prescriptions must be completed for all jobs. The Harvesting Plan Worksheet and the Harvesting Monitoring Form must be completed prior to beginning all harvesting operations.

Operation ..................................................... Block Anticipated Start Date .................................

Anticipated Finish Date .....................................

Yes No N/A Environmental Restrictions Sensitive Boundaries (eg reserves, crops) Soils (eg erosion prone/vulnerable) Terrain (eg steep/sharp guts) Waterways (eg streams, water tables, culverts) Utilities (eg gas, phone, power) Weather conditions required for operation Fire risk potential Operation risk of environmental impact Chemical/Fuel Management Requirements

Use BMPs for guidance Action Required/Comments To mitigate/eliminate risk

Community Restrictions Boundaries (eg neighbours/fences) Noise Pollution Easements/Rights of way Traffic (eg dust, noise, safety) Timing (eg hour of day) Visual Consideration Consultation requirements Biodiversity Values (eg DoC/Fish and Game/iwi) Water values (eg DoC/Fish and Game/iwi) Forest Users Authorities (eg District/Regional Council;Fire) Summary Describe Operation and any management action that needs to be undertaken prior to beginning operation.

Name ........................................................................................................Date .................................... Part 3 2.3.2a GMP PART 3: Templates

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GMP PART 3: Templates

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Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.3.3a WATERWAY MANAGEMENT PLAN Waterway Name .............................................................................................................................................................. Priority Ranking for managing/restoring the waterway ............................................................................................................................................................. To provide for fish, bird and invertebrate habitat I need to .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. To enhance the indigenous biodiversity of the riparian zone I need to .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Species include: .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. To ensure operations and land management do not impact on the waterway I will ensure that Best Management Practices are followed. Specific operations that need careful management to minimise the risk of environmental impact are: .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................ Part 3 2.3.3a GMP PART 3: Templates

3/21

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/22

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Reserves Animal Pests on Pests are my Property present in

Date File

Client

Control Methods Applicable

ANIMAL PEST MANAGEMENT

My desired outcome Ranked (Population Priority for Control or total Action eradication)

2.5.1a

Sustainable Landowners Group

Regional Plan Requirements for this Pest

Group Manager’s Use Only

Population Dynamics – Best time to intervene?

Stakeholders to Consult

PART THREE

Part 3 2.5.1a

3/23

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/24

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Pest

Date File

Client

Block

Group Manager’s Use Only

Control Option

2.5.2a Dates of Operation

Measure (Numbers Killed/ Amount Bait Consumed)

Further Action Necessary

PEST MANAGEMENT MONITORING FORM

Sustainable Landowners Group

Non Target Species Killed and Numbers of

PART THREE

Part 3 2.5.2a

3/25

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/26

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Weeds on my property

Date File

Client

Blocks Present

Group Manager’s Use Only

Regional Plan Requirements for this weed

2.5.3a Desired outcome

Ranked Priority for Action

Control Methods Applicable

WEED MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN

Sustainable Landowners Group

Stakeholders to Consult

PART THREE

Part 3 2.5.3a

3/27

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/28

May 2004


Date File

Client

Weed

Block

Group Manager’s Use Only

GMP PART 3: Templates

Dates of Operation

Outcomes of Operation

WEED MANAGEMENT MONITORING FORM

Control Option

2.5.4a

Sustainable Landowners Group

Further Action Necessary

PART THREE

Part 3 2.5.4a

3/29

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/30

May 2004


PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.5.7a PLANTATION FOREST HEALTH MONITORING CHECKSHEET Block .............................................................

Date ..................................................................

Size .............................................................

Aspect ...............................................................

Description of Monitoring Method .............................................................................................................................................................. Age of Trees

.....................................................................................................................................

Indicator

Rating

Vine Weeds

1 2 3 4 1

Shrub/Tree Weeds

2 3

Possums

4 1 2 3 4 1

Deer

2 3 4 1

Ground cover weeds

2 3 4

Estimate Notes Species etc (Tick appropriate level) � Very common, >50% canopy cover. � Common, 10%-50% canopy cover. � Occasional, up to 10% canopy cover. � None present. � Very common, >50% understorey or canopy cover. � Common, 10%-50% understorey or canopy cover. � Occasional, up to 10% understorey or canopy cover. � None present � Very common, cover >50% ground area. � Common, 10%-50% ground area. � Occasional, up to 10% ground area. � None present. � Abundant fresh sign (droppings, pad runs, bark scratching and biting). � Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. � Sign uncommon, often quite old. � No sign. � Abundant fresh sign (dropping, major tracks and hoof prints). Occasional deer may be disturbed. � Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Sightings of deer uncommon. � Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. � No sign.

Part 3 2.5.7a GMP PART 3: Templates

3/31

May 2004


PART THREE

Goats

Pigs

1

2

3 4

� �

1

2 3 4 Stock

Insect Pests

Fungal Diseases

1

� � � �

2

3

4 1 2 3 3 1 2 3 4

� � � � � � � � �

Abundant fresh sign (droppings, major tracks and hoof prints, bedding areas). Goats commonly heard, seen or smelt. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Occasional goats heard, seen or smelt. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. No sign. Abundant fresh sign (rooting, droppings and hoof prints). Pigs commonly seen or heard nearby. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old No sign. Abundant fresh sign (droppings, major tracks and hoof prints). Stock heard or seen throughout area. Common fresh sign but sometimes scattered. Occasional stock heard or seen, generally confined to scattered areas on edge. Sign uncommon. Sign is often old. Only near edges. No sign. Major outbreak apparent Small outbreak apparent Isolated area outbreak apparent No fungal disease apparent Major outbreak apparent Small outbreak apparent Isolated area outbreak apparent No fungal disease apparent

Specify major changes since last monitoring was undertaken.

................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... Specify any management requirements necessary

................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................

Part 3 2.5.7a

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/32

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Date

Date File

Client

Operation

Group Manager’s Use Only

Stand/ Block

Total Area (ha)

Area Treated

Chemical Used (Litres)

2.6.2a CHEMICAL USE FORM

Sustainable Landowners Group

Mixture Rate

Mixture rate per ha

PART THREE

Part 3 2.6.2a

3/33

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/34

May 2004


PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.6.2b CHEMICAL INVENTORY SHEET

Date

Chemical

Operator/ Block

Opening Amount in Stock (L)

Amount Used (L)

Closing Amount Held in Stock (L)

Part 3 2.6.2b GMP PART 3: Templates

3/35

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/36

May 2004


2.6.4a

Herbicide Pre-Operation Checklist

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/37

Juvenile

Mature

Stage of Growth/Age

- Environmental:…………………………. - Other:……………………………………. Sensitive Boundaries (trials, native, farm, pines) Weather Conditions required for the operation Waterways (streams, water tables, culverts) Neighbours (Water quality, easements, helicopter noise) Other forest users / access Contractors in area Utilities (gas, phone, power)

Restrictions

2.

Restrictions

Target Weeds

1.

WEEDS (Those present and expected that require control)

Yes

Low

No

N/A

Mod

Comment

High

Level of Infestation Localised

Forest: Stand: Date Assessed: Method: Aerial/Knapsack/Broom/Gun/Weed-a-metre Operation Type: Preplant / Release / Waterpoints / Firebreaks / Office / Noxious / Road (culverts/carriageway/side/tables)

(Map attached to back)

Patchy

Coverage Widespread

PART THREE

Part 3 2.6.4b

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

3/38

Yes

No

N/A

Comment

Summary - Describe type and consider alternative: (is it required? mechanical, lower risk herbicide operation, herbicide type & rate, mark on map, weather conditions, dust, dry, affected parties, noise of helicopter).

Operational Operational Hazards (Spars, Overhead Wires) Helipad / Mixing Site (contamination risk) Water Supply (clean, contamination risk) Timing – impact on future operations Fire risk potential (ďŹ re breaks, roadside) Council control or containment weeds Was any Contorta sited in or around the block? Did you update the weed maps with its location? Operation to occur Is spraying necessary

Date: _______________________

4.

3.

Discuss plan with Roading / Harvesting Co-ordinators Affected Parties - Neighbours / Maori / Authorities - Forest Users / Community Groups Names and numbers of people to contact:

PART THREE

Part 3 2.6.4b

May 2004


Date File

Client

Sustainable Landowners Group

GMP PART 3: Templates

Consult Whom

Situation in which Consultation shall be Undertaken

2.7.1a IDENTIFICATION OF CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS

Group Manager’s Use Only

PART THREE

Part 3 2.7.1a

3/39

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/40

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Date

Date File

Client

Contact Person

Group Manager’s Use Only

Organisation eg Phone Call/Letter

Type of Consultation

2.7.1b STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION RECORD

Sustainable Landowners Group

Outcome

PART THREE

Part 3 2.7.1b

3/41

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/42

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Holder of Customary Right

Date File

Client

Group Manager’s Use Only

Customary Right

Details

2.7.3a CUSTOMARY RIGHTS RECORD

Sustainable Landowners Group

Member Obligations

PART THREE

Part 3 2.7.3a

3/43

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/44

May 2004


GMP PART 3: Templates

Date

Date File

Client

Person Trained

Group Manager’s Use Only

Type of Training

Training Provider

2.8.3a TRAINING RECORD

Sustainable Landowners Group

Comment

PART THREE

Part 3 2.8.3a

3/45

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/46

May 2004


PART THREE

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client

Date File

2.8.4 a

DISPUTES RECORD

(Attach all relevant documentation) Date

...........................................................................................

Parties Involved

.......................................................................................................................

Description of Dispute

.......................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Third Party involved? .......................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Process undertaken ........................................................................................................................... .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................................................. Outcome .............................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................................................. Part 3 2.8.4a GMP PART 3: Templates

3/47

May 2004


PART THREE

GMP PART 3: Templates

3/48

May 2004


PART FouR

Part Four:

Monitoring Templates


PART FOUR

Monitoring Templates Index Mon/01 2.11.1a Mon/05 Mon/06

Harvesting Planning and Environmental Monitoring Form Local Processor Register Forest Operation Costs (per hectare) Costs and Revenue of Harvesting Operations

GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

4/2

May 2004


GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

SLG/Contractor

Who is to implement the monitoring?

4/3

Site Productivity

Effect

Soil Disturbance

Indicator

PLAN

1 Soil undisturbed <10% 2 Soil undisturbed 10-20% 3 Soil undisturbed 20-60% 4 Soil undisturbed >60%

Requirements

� � � �

1

2

1=Good 2=OK 3=Not OK 4=N/A Checks 3 F I N A L

Use this document in conjunction with the Procedure for Planning New Harvesting Operations. Specific operation requirements to be noted on the Harvest Plan Map. The final check must be signed off by the forest owner before equipment leaves the operation site.

(Circle one)

Job Number: ............................................

Contractor: ............................................

Mon / 01 Harvesting Planning and Environmental Monitoring Form

Sustainable Landowners Group

Date: ............................................................................. _ Forest Owner:...................................................................

Date File

Client

Group Manager’s Use Only

PART FOUR

Part 4 Mon/01

May 2004


GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

4/4

Identify area

istorical/ Cultural Sites & Protected Areas

Temporary track drainage/ run off

Slash/ Birdsnest

Slash management

Water Quality

Extraction routes

Tracks, side cuts

Machine Positioning

Indicator

Compaction

Effect

Plan

1 Install effective cut outs on all tracks 2 Install cut outs on most tracks 3 Install occasional cut outs 4 Run off control on tracks not required

1 Mark off area boundaries 2 No modification to site to be made 3 Modification allowed to prescribed level

� � � �

� � �

1 No turning on soft soils, turn on dry/hard areas of slash mats only, back in � 2 Some turning/slewing of machine on soft soil OK, try to reduce � 3 Avoid turning/slewing on soft soils, back in if possible � 4 No care required, turn/slew machine anywhere � 1 No tracks allowed � 2 Tracks only where planned and approved � 3 Hard dry or sandy soils. Some random tracks allowed � 1 No random tracks, single main routes only, pull rope � 2 Random tracks only if essential, stay on single main routes � 3 Some random tracks OK, try to keep main dry routes � 4 Random extraction tracks OK, pulling rope not required � 1 Slash pulled up onto stable ground upon completion � 2 Slash intermittently removed from site � 3 Slash deposited in designated areas � 4 No special care required �

Requirements

1

2

3

Final

Checks

1=Good 2=OK 3=Not OK 4=N/A

PART FOUR

Part 4 Mon/01

May 2004


GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

4/5 1 All signs attended to in terms of removal or reinstatement

Structures

Signage

             

1 Debris may be left as is 2 Debris may be removed by machine 3 Debris may be removed by hand 4 Debris may be cut to <1.0m and left 1 Cross at designated points only 2 Keep stem butts well raised 3 Directional falling away from watercourse 4 Riparian management zone protocols complied with 1 OK – normal care 2 Crossings to be minimised 3 Crossing only as specified 1 All waste oil must be collected, no ongoing leaks allowed 2 All waste oil must be collected, no leaks allowed 1 All rubbish removed

Date of Final Clearance___________________________

1

Signed _______________________________________ Contractor Signed _______________________________________ SLG Member

By whom

  

 

1 All structures open and clear of debris 2 Waterways are open and free to allow ease of passage

Requirements

1 All remaining log stacks accessible by self loader 2 All remaining logs stencilled with WFS gang and grade 1 All fences been cleared or left as required by client

Plan

Log Stacks

Temporary Stream Crossings Fuel & Oil Handling Rubbish

Stream side care

Permanent drainage structure and waterways Debris in Watercourse

Indicator

Comments/Corrective Actions (avoid, remedy or mitigate)

House-keeping

Effect

2

Final

By when

3

Checks

1=Good 2=OK 3=Not OK 4=N/A

PART FOUR

Part 4 Mon/01

May 2004


Date File

Client

Date

2.11.1a

Group Manager’s Use Only

GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

Name of Processor

LOCAL PROCESSOR REGISTER Processes (grades, species etc)

Approximate Distance

...............................................................................................................................

Sustainable Landowners Group

PART FOUR

Part 4 2.11.1a

4/6

May 2004


GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

(Detail establishment operation and cost):

4/7

(Detail releasing operation and costs):

(Detail pruned numbers per hectare and costs):

Prune 1: ________________________________________________________________ Prune 2: ________________________________________________________________ Prune 3: ________________________________________________________________

Pruning

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _Cost: __________________________________________________________________Labour:____________________________________________________

Releasing

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _Seedlings:______________________________________________________________Labour:_____________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ Planting (Detail planting rĂŠgime and costs):

Establishment

Area (ha): _______________________________________________

Mon / 05 FOREST OPERATION COSTS (per hectare)

Sustainable Landowners Group

Forest Block: __________________________________________________________

Date File

Client

Group Manager’s Use Only

PART FOUR

Part 4 Mon/05

May 2004


(Detail fertiliser applied and rates per year of application and costs):

(Detail thinning operations and costs)

GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

Other

(Detail any other costs associated with establishment, silviculture and management of this block):

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________

Fertiliser

Thinning

PART FOUR

Part 4 Mon/05

4/8

May 2004


PART FOUR

Group Manager’s Use Only

Sustainable Landowners Group

Client Date File

Mon / 06

Costs and Revenue of Harvesting Operations

Block/Compartment: ______________________

Date: ________________________________

Harvesting Method: _______________________

Cartage Contractor: ____________________

Contractor Employed: _____________________

Manager Employed: ____________________

REVENUES

LOG GRADE SALE POINT SALE UNIT GROSS VALUE AT POINT OF SALE LESS OPERATIONAL, MANAGEMENT and MARKETING COSTS LOGGING & LOADING CARTAGE OTHER (weighbridge) ROADING/ CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT FEE

NET RETURN

ONE OFF COSTS OF THIS OPERATION: EQUIPMENT POSITIONING: $ FENCING: OVERHEAD POWER WIRES:

ROADING: TRACKING: OTHER (state)

Part 4 Mon/06

GMP PART 4 Monitoring Templates

4/9

May 2004


PART FIVE

Part Five:

Audit Form


PART FIVE

Audit Index Pre CertiďŹ cation / Surveillance Audit

GMP PART 5: Audit Forms

5/2

May 2004


PART FIVE

Pre Certification / Surveillance Audit The audit conforms with FSC’s Principles and Criteria, and SLG Scheme’s other membership requirements Audit Type (circle):

Pre-Entry / Annual Compliance

Name:

Date:

Group Scheme Criteria & No. Social

Requirements

Met

Assessor:

Evidence

Comments

(Y/N/ NA)

Cultural Basic identification of archaeological Y sites (pre-1900) is known and understood 2 Sites of special significance to Maori shall be recognised and protected 3 Maori should be consulted on important sites prior to operations occurring nearby 4 Prior to operations these sites have been identified and marked in the field Stakeholder Communication 1

5

6

7

8

An up to date stakeholder list is available e.g. neighbours, community, councils There is ongoing consultation with people affected by forest operations Disputes, complaints/grievances or issues are being followed up, using a consistent process, and showing there is a commitment to resolve them Records are kept on visits and correspondence with stakeholders

Environmental Effects on People and the Environment 9

Significant environmental impacts on people and the environment have been identified, measured/ predicted and assessed

GMP PART 5: Audit Form

5/3

May 2004


PART FIVE

Type & No.

Requirements

10

Significant adverse effects have been avoided, remedied or mitigated. Industry best practises and operational guidelines are used

11

Monitoring of significant adverse effects has been planned and implemented.

Met (Y/N/ NA)

Evidence

Comments

Chemicals 12

FSC prohibited chemicals are not used

13

All chemicals used are identified and records kept of their usage

14

Chemical usage is necessary, justified and reduced, where possible. Nonchemical methods of pest control have been considered.

15

Chemicals are stored, mixed, applied and disposed using industry best practise.

16

Chemical spills or emergencies procedures are known. If a spill occurred it would be recorded.

Waste 17

The management and disposal of waste, including in-forest dumps, minimises adverse environmental impacts. Where possible waste is reduced, reused or recycled

Pest Control 18

There is an understanding of forest pests and diseases and how to best manage them

19

Measures are taken to prevent or minimise the outbreak of pests and diseases including on-going monitoring for them

20

Unwanted regeneration is monitored and controlled where necessary

21

Use of biological control agents shall be documented, monitored and meet legal requirements

GMP PART 5: Audit Forms

5/4

May 2004


PART FIVE

Requirements

Type & No.

Met (Y/N/ NA)

Evidence

Comments

Ecological Management 22

Native areas and threatened species within the forest have been identiďŹ ed and are being managed to improve them, including on-going monitoring

23

Native areas and threatened species are protected from operations that occur nearby

24

Where no native areas occur within the forest then native areas within the greater property shall be managed. If there is no native within the property then assistance to restoration/enhancement within the Group Scheme shall occur.

Economic/Legal Planning 26

There is a forest management plan incorporating the FSC P & C and the following:

a)

Short and long term management objectives have been described

b)

Planning has considered economic, social and environmental factors including justifying impacts of operations, new land purchase, harvesting techniques and equipment and threatened species

c)

Forest areas are mapped and show basic resources including plantation boundaries, native areas, neighbours, streams and location of threatened

d)

The plan is revised annually, incorporates monitoring results, and basic details are made public

GMP PART 5: Audit Form

5/5

May 2004


PART FIVE

Type & No.

Requirements

Met

Evidence

Comments

(Y/N/ NA)

Legal and Other 27

Property rights are demonstrated

28

Current taxes and other legal fees have been paid

29

Forest workers have been paid

30

Legal and other use rights to the forest are known and are honoured

31

There is awareness and a basic understanding of laws that affect forest activities including international agreements e.g. CITES

32

There is no evidence of noncompliance with laws including RMA, Forest Act, HSNO, Historic Places, BFRFD

33

There is no evidence of noncompliance with Heath and Safety laws

34

Chain Of Custody requirements have been met including correct use of the FSC trademark and logo, and records have been kept

Forest Resource 35

No GM organisms are used

36

The rate of harvest shall not exceed what can be sustained. The exception is one-off harvests that shall minimise environmental, social and economic impacts and demonstrate replanting and future operations

37

Financial details on the forest shall be kept including enough detail to identify there has been no illegal harvesting

Fire Protection 38

Measures are taken to protect the forest from fires

39

There is a fire plan which details the key steps in managing a fire and those responsible

GMP PART 5: Audit Forms

5/6

May 2004


PART FIVE

Type & No.

Requirements

Met

Evidence

Comments

(Y/N/ NA)

Managing Operations and Contractors 40

Member shall ensure contractors are meeting the Group Scheme requirements and their contractual obligations.

41

Harvesting operations have used the WFS Harvest Planning Documents, contract speciďŹ cations, and Environmental monitoring.

42

All operations involving chemicals have used the appropriate Group Scheme chemical Checklist, and prescription.

43

The WFS Best Management Practices and SLG Group Management Plan have been followed.

General 44

SLG Group Scheme requirements in addition to those listed within the FSC’s Principles and Criteria.

a)

The SLG Group Scheme Eligibility Criteria is met

b)

Group Scheme procedures have been followed including: Compliments / Complaints Procedure, CAR Procedure, Consultation Procedure, and Document Control Procedure

c)

Property access is unhindered

d)

Membership fees and costs have been paid

GMP PART 5: Audit Form

5/7

May 2004


PART SIX

Part Six:

Practice Guides


PART SIX

Best Management Practice Index BMP 01 BMP 02 BMP 03 BMP 04 BMP 05 BMP 06 BMP 07 BMP 08 BMP 09 BMP 10

Operational processes Ground based harvesting Cable harvesting Burning operations Earthworks Chemical application Planting Fuel transport, storage and refuelling Mechanical preparation Riparian management

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

6/2

6/3 6/5 6/7 6/9 6/11 6/13 6/15 6/17 6/19 6/21

May 2004


PART SIX

Best Management Practices and Operational Processes

BMP/01

The Register of Environmental Effects has illustrated the potential for forestry operations to adversely effect the environment. To avoid or minimise the effects of significant operations, Wrightson Forestry Services is implementing the following procedures in its EMS: • Identification of potential effects of current forest operations. This is known as the Register of Environmental effects (REG02). • Documenting operational Best Management practices (BMPs) and Operational processes. These documents outline the best practice for minimising / reducing the potential of adverse effects. • Training all staff and contractors, to ensure they have the knowledge and awareness to comply with the standards and processes. • Monitoring and auditing these operational practices to ensure compliance with the documented BMPs and processes. Compliance with Documented practice The BMPs and the operational processes are recommendations on how to carry out operations so that they comply with industry, legislative and WFS’ own environmental regulations. The inherent nature of forestry operations means that all operations are different. Operational constraints dictate that balances between economic, environmental, technical and safety considerations must be achieved. To proceed with such considerations involves reference to: • The EMS manual • Regulatory plans • Specialist advice if necessary. Significant aspects The following table outlines those operations that WFS undertakes that are significant. These operations have been assessed as having potential to cause harmful effects on the environment. The relevant BMPs and processes are shown for each operation.

Operation / Activity Ground Based harvesting Cable Harvesting Burning Earthworks Aerial Spraying / Chemical Application Mechanical Site Preparation Planting

Best Management Practice BMP/02, also BMP/08, BMP/10 BMP/03, also BMP/08, BMP/10 BMP/04, also BMP/08, BMP/10 BMP/05, also BMP/08, BMP/10 BMP/06, also BMP/08, BMP/09, BMP/10 BMP/09; also BMP/10, BMP/08 BMP/07 , also BMP/09, BMP/10

Operation Documents Operational Process GFO/00 PRO/02; PRO/03 MON/02 – MON/05 GFO/00 PRO/02; PRO/03 MON/02-MON/05 GFO/01 PRO/05 GFO/01

PRO/04

GFO/01; GFO/02; GFO/05 GFO/01; GFO/03; MON/03 GFO/01; GFO/04

PRO/04 PRO/03 PRO/03

The full list of these documents is shown in the Document Control Register.

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

6/3

May 2004


PART SIX

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

6/4

May 2004


PART SIX

Best Management Practice for Ground Based Harvesting

BMP/02

Purpose: 1. To maximise the productivity of ground based logging harvesting operations. 2. To minimise the impact of ground based logging harvesting on water quality and soil productivity. 3. To ensure the safety of WFS employees and contractors Responsibility: WFS Operation’s Managers and WFS Contractors

1.

2. 3.

General Rules All Ground Based operations to follow OSH guidelines

No damage to occur in identified areas All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

• • • • • • • • •

4.

Consult with affected parties

• • •

1.

Best Management Practices Comply with the agreed harvest plan

• • • •

2.

3.

Butt extraction is to be practiced wherever possible

The construction of tracks must be planned and approved by a WFS O.M.

• 4.

5.

Use directional felling, or machine assisted felling at all times Keep extraction routes to a minimum

• • • • •

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

6/5

Why To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. To preserve significant sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services Why To minimise potential environmental disturbance To maintain a safe working environment for WFS employees and contractors To maximise production To keep all affected parties informed and aware of operation plans. To minimise soil disturbance and compaction To minimise extraction breakage; thus minimising slash, and in turn minimising the potential for slash to enter the waterways To minimise tracking densities to reduce compaction, soil disturbance and loss of productive land Minimal tracking reduces the opportunity for erosion and sedimentation To reduce soil disturbance during extraction To reduce breakage and slash buildup To protect identified areas and services To minimise exposure to ground compaction and disturbance To aid in rehabilitation of extraction routes

May 2004


PART SIX

6

Maximise trimming in the cut over, except in identified areas.

7.

Use of approved machines only

8.

Prohibit use of machinery in adverse conditions Shovel logging in marked sensitive areas

9.

10. Streams may be crossed only at authorised points

• • • • • •

To improve soil qualities To reduce buildup of slash on skid sites To reduce runoff from cutover To reduce soil compaction and disturbance To minimise rehabilitation costs To comply with resource consent criteria

• • •

To minimise soil compaction To avoid rutting, puddling and ponding To minimise soil degradation and disruption To minimise stream bank damage To minimise stream bank damage and stream bed damage To reduce sediment and slash in streams To maintain aquatic habitat To minimise erosion To reduce loss of top soil To avoid gouging of existing tracks To act as sediment traps, thus minimising sedimentation of streams To reduce the loss of productive area Minimise the potential for a debris slide To reduce the potential for noise, air, water and soil pollution To reduce the potential for fire To Maintain a good relationship with neighbours To maximise productivity of work To ensure all safety and environmental requirements are met.

• •

• • 11. Water Cutoffs to be installed on firebreaks and • haul tracks. To be located where indicated by • WFS OM • • 12. Slash to be stored in designated areas 13. All machinery on a preventative maintenance program

• • •

14. No damage to neighbours property

• •

15. Experienced operators to be matched with appropriate jobs

• •

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PART SIX

Cable Harvesting Best Management Practice

BMP/03

Purpose: To minimise the potential of adverse environmental impacts occurring, to ensure the safety of personnel whilst maximising the productivity of the job. Responsibility: WFS Operations Managers and Contractors.

1.

General All Cable Harvesting operations to follow OSH guidelines and Liro forest code of practice guideline.

2. 3.

No damage to occur in identified areas All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

4.

Consult with affected parties

1.

Best Practice: Cable Harvesting Comply with the agreed harvest plan

2.

3.

Why � To comply with forestry regulations and agreements � To comply with legal requirements � To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. � To preserve significant sites � To encourage a professional attitude � To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination � To reduce the fire hazard � To reduce the visual impact � To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals � Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties � To maintain good relations � To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services

Why � To minimise potential environmental disturbance � To maintain a safe working environment for WFS employees and contractors � To maximise production � To keep all affected parties informed and aware of operation plans. Butt extraction is to be practiced wherever � To minimise soil disturbance and possible compaction � To minimise extraction breakage; thus minimising slash, and in turn minimising the potential for slash to enter the waterways � To minimise wear on machinery � To maximise production The construction of tracks must be � To minimise tracking densities to planned and approved by a WFS O.M. reduce compaction, soil disturbance and loss of productive land � Minimal tracking reduces the opportunity for erosion and sedimentation

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PART SIX

4.

5.

6. 7. 8.

9.

10.

11.

12. 13.

14.

15. 16.

Use directional felling, or machine assisted felling at all times

� To reduce soil disturbance during extraction � To reduce breakage and slash buildup � To protect identified areas and services Keep extraction routes to a minimum � To minimise exposure to ground compaction and disturbance � To aid in rehabilitation of extraction routes Use of approved machines only � To reduce soil compaction and disturbance � To minimise rehabilitation costs Prohibit use of machinery in adverse � To comply with resource consent conditions criteria Shovel logging in marked sensitive areas � To minimise soil compaction � To avoid rutting, puddling and ponding � To minimise soil degradation and disruption � To minimise stream bank damage Visual consideration to roading and skid � To minimise likelihood or erosion, soil site placements disturbance and compaction � To maintain good relationships with neighbours and the community � To comply with legal requirements Provide for sufficient skid site sizes, � To ensure employees and contractors quantities of skid sites, and locate best are safe in their workplace sites for skids � To increase production, and value of log recovery � To ensure trees can be landed safely Use of skyline system where applicable � To gain full suspension � To minimise the soil disturbance and compaction � To increase production Where practical, avoid high leading across � To reduce the likelihood of stream waterways damage � To protect stream habitat Two stage systems if applicable � To improve lift � To reduce soil disturbance and compaction � To increase production � To gain greater access to logs Water Cutoffs to be installed on firebreaks � To minimise erosion and haul tracks. To be located where � To reduce loss of top soil indicated by WFS OM � To avoid gouging of existing tracks � To act as sediment traps, thus minimising sedimentation of streams Slash to be stored in designated areas � To reduce the loss of productive area � Minimise the potential for a debris slide All machinery on a preventative � To reduce the potential for noise, air, maintenance programme water and soil pollution � To reduce the potential for fire

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PART SIX

Burning Operations Best Management Practice

BMP/04

This Best Management Practice applies to any managed burning operations. PURPOSE: To undertake these operations whilst minimising environmental damage, damage to untargeted areas and to ensure the safety of people General All Burning ops to follow OSH guidelines and LIRO forest code of Practice

No damage to occur in identified areas All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

Consult with affected parties

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Best Practice: Burning Firebreaks Prepare vegetation Crushed / desiccated

• • • • Isolate waterways / Significant Indigenous (if • applicable) • Back burn • • • Good radio / Cell phone contact • • Emergency response plan ready • • Approved / Trained Operators with correct • clothing • Weather suitability; morning burns, light winds, • appropriate direction • Resources on site • • Premobilisation contact with applicable • authorities • Mop up / Close Off • Hot spots dampened Dead spars felled Plan escape route prior to beginning burning operations

Cross references:

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

Why To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. To preserve significant sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services Why To contain burn Achieve a good burn More control Intense heat Preserve significant sites Maintain aquatic habitat To maintain boundaries Slower burning, less scorching Control Safety Back up Safety Back up Safety Well implemented burning operations Cool clean burns Reduces danger to people and property Safety Increase control of operation Safety Keep all affected Parties aware of plans To minimise likelihood of flare up

Safety

Other BMP’s to note: BMP/08, BMP/10 Operation Checksheet GFO/01

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GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

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PART SIX

Earthworks Best Management Practice

BMP/05

This Best Management Practice applies to any operation that involves the movement of earth. Purpose: To undertake these forestry operations whilst minimising the likelihood of adverse environmental impacts on the soil and water properties. Responsibility: WFS Operations Managers and relevant Contractors General Rules 1. All earthworks operations to follow OSH guidelines and LIRO Forest code of practice.

2. No damage to occur in identified areas 3. All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

Why To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. To preserve significant sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services

• • • • • • • • •

4. Consult with affected parties

• • •

1.

Best Management Practices Earthworks must be planned and approvals sought

• • • •

2.

The construction of tracks must be planned and approved by a WFS Operations Manager

• •

3.

Contractors selected according to ability and correct machinery while providing competitive pricing

4.

Carefully consider side casting as an option. May not be appropriate in risky sites

5.

Consider end hauling as an option

• • • • • •

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

6/11

• • •

Why Ensure best options taken Correctly located, i.e. roads and tracks located on ridges, benches and away from unstable area R.M.A legal requirements To reduce affects on other parties i.e. neighbours, visual effects To minimise tracking densities to reduce compaction, soil disturbance and loss of productive land Minimal tracking reduces the opportunity for erosion and sedimentation To ensure job is completed in a professional manner To maximise productivity of work Safety of operators Clean, tidy machines reduce the likelihood of environmental damage Potential visual impact Risk of scouring and slumping Potential for sedimentation and runoff Minimise potential for erosion Minimise adverse visual impact Potential to increase road stability

May 2004


PART SIX

6.

Prohibit use of machinery in adverse conditions • •

7.

Have correct fuel and oil Storage facilities. Refer to BMP/08.

8.

Roads to be designed for disposal of storm water

• • • • •

• Placement of spoil combined with end hauling. • Use natural holding areas to locate spoil • • 10. Water Cut-offs to be installed on firebreaks and • haul tracks. To be located where indicated by • WFS OM • • 9.

11. All machinery on a preventative maintenance programme

12. No damage to neighbours property

• •

13. Final inspection on completion by regulatory authorities if applicable

• •

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

6/12

To comply with resource consent criteria Encourage planning for seasonal advantages – dry periods To prevent contamination of soils and waterways Reduce the potential for fires To minimise risks and effects of vandalism Reduce sedimentation of waterways Reduce the likelihood of erosion and scouring Keep road standard high Reduce risk of scouring / erosion Reduce likelihood of sedimentation Reduce loss of productive land To minimise erosion To reduce loss of top soil To avoid gouging of existing tracks To act as sediment traps, thus minimising sedimentation of streams To reduce the potential for noise, air, water and soil pollution To reduce the potential for fire To Maintain a good relationship with neighbours Maintain relations with stakeholders To comply with Resource Consent

May 2004


PART SIX

Chemical Application Best Management Practice

BMP/06

Purpose: To ensure the safe and efficient use of chemicals through appropriate user training, and through the careful planning of operations. Responsibility: WFS Operation’s Managers and relevant Contractors

General Rules

1. Forest operations shall be designed to minimise chemical use

Why

To minimise adverse environmental impacts as a result of chemical use To prevent contamination of soil and waterways To avoid the unnecessary use of chemcials To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. To preserve significant sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services

2. All Aerial spraying ops to follow OSH guidelines and LIRO Forest code of practice

3. No damage to occur in identified areas 4. All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

• • • • • • • • • • •

5. Consult with affected parties

• •

1.

2.

Best Management Practices – Storage and Mixing Personnel handling chemical (staff and contractors) must be trained in the safe handling of chemicals (Growsafe Training NZ8409-1999- “The Management of Agrichemicals” Follow Chemical Label Instructions. Read material data sheet (MDS) before beginning operation. Store MDS on site.

Why •

Self responsibility and awareness of safety precautions and procedures needed to handle chemicals

Ensure safety and emergency procedures are understood Understand the risks associated with the chemical being used Understand protective equipment requirements

• •

3. Adequate protective gear for mixing

4.

Mix away from water-ways and drains

5.

Triple rinse containers into spray mix and spray out

• • •

6.

Recycle containers where possible. Dumping containers prohibited

7.

Ensure chemical is stored safely on site

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

• • • • •

6/13

Safety for operators and handlers of chemical To avoid contamination of these areas To protect aquatic habitat Maximise productive amount of chemical uses Minimise chemical residue in containers Waste management Containers will not break down in forest environment Health and Safety for all personnel Minimise possibility of inappropriate use of chemicals May 2004


PART SIX

1.

Best Management Practices – Application Maintain buffer zones around water-ways and Indigenous forest when applying spray Take all practical steps to avoid water-ways

2.

Pilots must be appropriately trained, and be registered.

3.

Aircraft must have correct equipment APS, Calibrated gear and approved spraying gear

4. 5.

Consider time, weather and time of day when planning spray operations Keep records of spraying operations - Deviations from expected quotations - Weather conditions - Spray drift

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

6/14

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Why Minimise possibility of contaminating waterways Protect aquatic habitat Protect significant Indigenous forest areas To ensure correct application of chemical For safety of all operators and workers on site To ensure correct application of chemical in location, amount of chemical applied To reduce spray drift likelihood To ensure non-target areas are not sprayed To ensure spray drift is minimised To ensure correct spray application To determine best spray methods before implementing future operations To compare “expected” against “actual” amount of chemicals used To record that BMP’s are used in operation

May 2004


PART SIX

Planting Best Management Practice

BMP/07

Applies to establishment of seedling/cuttings in cutovers and “Green Field” operations Purpose: To ensure the safe and efficient manner planting of tree/seedlings while maintaining specific District and Regional Council requirements Responsibility: WFS Operation’s Managers and relevant Contractors General Rules All Planting ops to follow OSH guidelines and LIRO Forest code of practice

No damage to occur in identified areas. Protect any indigenous vegetation. All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

Consult with affected parties

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Best Management Practices Utilise trained personnel with the correct tools/ • equipment • • Undertake site inspection with contractors • • Identify District Council/Regional Council • requirements

Prepare site specific operation prescription

• • • • •

Prepare operation plan for seedling delivery

• •

Complete on-site completion report

• • •

Determine if there is a floodplain adjacent to the watercourse and DO NOT plant the floodplain

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

6/15

Why To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace. To preserve significant area/sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services Why Ensure the operation is completed safely/ correctly Maximise productivities and minimise cost Ensure safety of workers Identify potential hazards For safety of workers Ensure District Council plan requirements are met for road edge, stream/road/skyline setbacks and amenity plantings Check species restrictions Initiate consent requirements if required Provide clear instructions for contractors Identify specific hazards and operational restrictions Identify key limitations and areas, boundaries, spacing and track locations Ensure best industry practice for seedling survival Ensure coordinated delivery to predetermined dumps Ensure prescription requirements met Site clean of rubbish and debris Ensure District/Regional Council requirements are met The natural role of the floodplain will be disturbed and could lead to unusual flooding Tree survival is likely to be minimal

May 2004


PART SIX

PLANTING SET BACK RULES If there are no regional or district council requirements for planting set backs, the following rules need to be followed: • Determine the catchment area. If less than 50 hectares, and the stream width is less than 3 metres in width, no set back is required other than those identified above (regional plans / existing indigenous vegetation. • If catchment is greater than 50 hectares and stream width is less than 3 metres then a 5-metre set back is required. • For all streams greater than 3 metres in width a 10-metre setback is compulsory (regardless of catchment area) • Note that these rules still apply even if an existing stumpline (ex-harvested) occurs. Do not assume that planting can go up to the existing stumpline. Adhere to the rules above on all jobs. • All distances are horizontal. WHY These riparian zones are extremely important for the healthy functioning of the waterway and the surrounding ecosystem. The riparian zones perform jobs that include sediment filtration, nutrient and chemical filtration, erosion control and providing the correct amount of shading and light to the aquatic life that inhabit the waterways. Water quality and aquatic life will increase due to a combination of these positive effects. By including setbacks in planting operations the possibility of adversity effecting waterways during following harvesting operations is minimised. These setbacks have been determined after consultation with other forestry companies, regional councils and Forest Research.

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PART SIX

Fuel Transport, Storage and Refuelling Best Management Practice BMP/08 Purpose: •

To ensure fuels are stored and handled in the safest possible way

To confine all possible spills within the boundaries of the refueling site.

Responsibility: Operations Managers and relevant Contractors General: • Follow rules and procedures for transporting, storage and disposing of fuels and containers as given in – OSH Approval Code of Practice for Safety & Health in Forest operations – HSNO rules and regulations for the use of Hazardous Substances •

Adhere to BMP/10, Riparian Management. Do not store chemicals, fuels or oils near waterways

Never dump lubricants, fuels or containers in the forest

Make every effort to prevent spills and leaks

Minimise the risk of spills and leaks from fuel trailers and storage areas by making use of appropriate design constructions and maintenance methods.

Control spills and leaks with immediate cleanup action

Transporting Fuels 1. Use only approved type containers in good condition 2. Ensure fuel containers and trailers are labeled with their contents and any other appropriate signs 3. Ensure you have an emergency spill kit appropriate to the type and quantity of fuel being transported 4. Check HSNO regulations if you are transporting - More than 250 litres of petrol - More than 3000 litres of diesel Storing Fuels: 1. Store no more than 3000 litres of fuel and oil in one area (included in this is a maximum of 250 litres of petrol) 2. Keep storage areas clear of - Heat and ignition sources - Vegetation and debris - Protected areas - Riparian zones / waterways - Other storage areas - Neighbours boundaries

(10 metres) ( 5 metres) ( 5 metres) ( 5 metres) (10 metres) (15 metres)

3. Ensure every storage site has: • An emergency spill kit appropriate to the type and quantity of fuel stored • A fire extinguisher 4. Oil change fluids need to be contained for off site disposal and recycling.

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PART SIX

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

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PART SIX

Mechanical Land Preparation Best Management Practice BMP/09 This BMP is applicable to all persons involved in V-Blading, Root Raking, Vegetation Crushing and Line Dozing. Purpose: To minimise the potential of adverse environmental impacts occurring, to ensure the safety of personnel whilst maximising the productivity of the job. Responsibility: WFS Operation’s Managers and relevant Contractors. General Rules All Mechanical Land Preparation Ops to follow • OSH guidelines and LIRO forest code of practice • • No damage to occur in identified areas All rubbish to be taken off the operation site

• • • • • • •

Consult with affected parties

• • Best Management Observe Riparian Management Best Management Practices (BMP/10) Avoid machine use on steep gradients and unstable soils Work along contour where possible Contour rows parallel with streams at all times adhering to Riparian Best Management Practice (BMP/10) Use rakes designed for forestry work and appropriate low-pressure machinery. Remove branches and debris without disturbing the duff layer Recycle containers where possible. Dumping containers prohibited

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Avoid working in wet weather

• • Leave slash buffer zones on steep ground and • / or around waterways • Install adequate water tables / culverts / • flumes and cutoffs to control runoff on tracks and dozing lines. Direct all runoffs to sediment ponds or filter barriers

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

6/19

Why To comply with forestry regulations and agreements To comply with legal requirements To ensure the safety of all WFS employees and contractors in their workplace To preserve significant sites To encourage a professional attitude To reduce the likelihood of soil and water contamination To reduce the fire hazard To reduce the visual impact To reduce the likelihood of noxious animals Requirement to minimise or eliminate the affect on relevant parties To maintain good relations To ensure no unplanned disruptions to services Why To reduce water quality To keep machines out of Riparian margins To reduce soil erosion To reduce soil disturbance and water runoff Prevent erosion Reduce sedimentation Minimise downwards run length on slope Buffer to reduce sedimentation / runoffs Protect Riparian zone and associated water values Maintain soil structure Enhance soil quality Retain nutrient value for trees Minimise sheet erosion Waste management Containers will not break down in forest environment Reduce soil compaction Reduce soil erosion To catch sediment To maintain water quality To reduce erosion / scouring

May 2004


PART SIX

GMP PART 6: Practice Guides

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PART SIX

Riparian Management Best Management Practice for

BMP/10

Purpose: 1. To minimise the adverse effects of forestry operations on streams 2. To maintain stream bank stability 3. To minimise water temperature changes, water quality and water yield changes 4. To maintain riparian biodiversity and conservation values Scope: This is a generic Best Management practice, which is to be applied to any forestry operation that interacts with waterways. Responsibility: WFS Operation’s Managers and relevant WFS Contractors Best Management Practices – Harvesting Operations Comply with the agreed forest operation plan

Why • • • •

Do not store chemicals, fuels or oils near waterways

Minimise vehicle use and cross watercourses at designated points only.

• •

Design logging systems to minimise crossstream hauling

Do not fell into waterways, unless necessary for safety. Machine-assist felling where appropriate.

Avoid accumulation of slash or disturbed soil near waterways

To minimise potential environmental disturbance To maintain a safe working environment for WFS employees and contractors To maximise production To keep all affected parties informed and aware of operation plans. To minimise the likelihood of hazardous substances entering waterways and causing subsequent water pollution To minimise soil disturbance and erosion, and subsequent sedimentation entering waterways To minimise the likelihood of stream bank damage and stream bed damage To minimise damage of riparian flora and fauna To minimise soil disturbance and the likelihood of sedimentation of waterways To minimise damage to riparian vegetation and stream banks. To minimise the disturbance to water quality and aquatic habitat To minimise the likelihood of these foreign particles entering waterways

Post-Harvest Operation Management Depending on the location of the wood in the channel, the stream type and size, and the flood risk, harvest practices can have a wide range of effects on the stream ecosystem. The wood is most vulnerable to movement in the first two years after harvest, after which point the riparian vegetation assists in holding it in place. On completing operations, it is important that the following actions are undertaken, unless the potential adverse effects of these actions are worse than the status quo. • • • •

Remove logging debris dams that are likely to prevent fish passage. Remove the smaller material that is less stable, and more likely to cause full blockage of the waterway Larger woody material should be removed if lying in the waterway, unless the potential adverse effects of this operation are worse than the status quo. Larger woody material lying across the waterway, if stable, can remain. This material has a good shading effect without impeding fish passage.

GMP PART 6: Practice Guide

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Appendices index • • •

Appendix 1 SLG Fire Plan Appendix 2 SLG Legal requirements Appendix 3 SLG Health and Safety


FIRE PLAN

SUSTAINABLE LANDOWNERS GROUP FIRE PLAN FOR PERIOD 1st January 2002 to 31st December 2004

(FOREST NAME)


APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN PLAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.

ACTION FOR EMERGENCY ...........................................................................................3 1.1 FIRE DETAILS ..................................................................................................................3 1.2.FIRE FIGHTING ACTION......................................................................................................3 1.3 EMPLOYEE ACTION ..........................................................................................................3 1.4. NEIGHBOURS .................................................................................................................4 1.5. MONITORING FIRE FIGHTING ACTION ...................................................................................4 1.6. PRINCIPLE CONTACTS (NEIGHBOURS, AUTHORITIES ETC) .......................................4 1.7 FIRE CALL QUESTIONAIRE ..................................................................................................5

2.

PREPAREDNESS PROCEDURE ....................................................................................6

3.

INFORMATION – PERSONNEL, EQUIPMENT AND NEIGHBOURS .............................6 3.1 NEIGHBOUR CONTACTS .....................................................................................................6

4.

STANDING INSTRUCTIONS ...........................................................................................7 4.1 PRIORITIES........................................................................................................................ 4.2 REQUIRED CLOTHING FOR FIRES ........................................................................................7 4.3 GENERAL COMMUNICATIONS ..............................................................................................7 4.4 CHAIN OF COMMAND ........................................................................................................7 4.5 FIRE PLANS ...................................................................................................................7

5.

FIRE MAINTENANCE PLAN ...........................................................................................8 5.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................8 5.2 FOREST ROADS AND TRACKS ............................................................................................8 5.3 MAINTENANCE OF FIREBREAKS ............................................................................................8 5.4 MAINTENANCE OF FIRE-PONDS ............................................................................................8

6.

APPENDIX 1 – MAPS ......................................................................................................8

GMP FIRE PLAN

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May 2004


APPENDIX APPENDIX ONE ONE FIRE FIRE PLAN PLAN

FOREST FIRE PLAN 1.

ACTION FOR EMERGENCY

This procedure is to be used by all personnel in the event of a fire at or within 1.5 kilometres of ...........................................Forest. 1.1

Fire details (a) Obtain and record details of the fire (see questionnaire section 1.7, page 3). (b) Confirm locality of fire by Forest Fire Map in section 7. (c) Check Fire Permit Register to determine who if anyone may be within forest boundary. (d) Inform anyone else who may be immediately affected by the fire.

1.2.

Fire fighting action (a) Initiate fire-fighting action. If the call has not come from NZ Fire Service Communication Centre, dial 111, ask for the Fire Service, and pass on all information. Notify responsible Fire Authority of fire and contact Principal Rural Fire Officer (PRFO), to confirm that fire fighting response has been initiated and enquire whether or what assistance is required. (b) Start fire-log recording for the Sustainable Landowners Group. All fire calls and responses, and any communications, messages or directions which relate to the fire are to be recorded (includes time of notification, weather conditions, requests for assistance etc), including statement that fire is declared out.

1.3

Employee action

Those employees who are familiar with the Fire Emergency Plan are listed below; with their role and responsibility in the event of a fire.

NAME

GMP FIRE PLAN

ROLE

RESPONSIBILITIES:

3

May 2004


APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN

In the event of a fire at ___________________Forest, frontline fire-fighting action will be undertaken by the relevant fire authority. The role of local Forest staff will be to make sure after initial notification that fire-fighting action is underway, to notify all neighbours and other relevant people of fire, and to lend assistance if required. 1.4. Neighbours If not already aware, inform all neighbours of details of fire, and enquire as to what assistance if any they can contribute. 1.5. Monitoring fire fighting action The SLG Member is to maintain regular contact with Principal Rural Firefighting Organisation. 1.6. Principle contacts (NEIGHBOURS, AUTHORITIES ETC)

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APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN

1.7 Fire call questionaire Date:..............................................

Time: ............................

1. Name of Caller: .................................................................................................................................. 2. Contact No: ........................................................................................................................................ 3. Locality of Fire close to Forest (see maps): ................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 4. Other reference points: ...................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................... 5. Values threatened by fire (life, land, property, buildings etc.): ........................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 6. Accessibility: ....................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 7. Material burning and topography: ...................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 8. Material ahead of fire: ........................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................... 9. Wind strength and direction: .............................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................................................... 10. Size of fire (hectares burnt, length of fire front etc.) ........................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 11. Specific assistance required: (manpower, equipment, helicopters etc.): ........................................... ................................................................................................................................................................... 12. Who is call passed on to and what action is taken:............................................................................. ................................................................................................................................................................... 13. Person recording the call: .................................................................................................................. ...................................................................................................................................................................

GMP FIRE PLAN

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May 2004


APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN

2.

REPAREDNESS PROCEDURE

I.

During the fire season, SLG Members should check the fire weather information on a regular basis from the National Rural Fire Authority Web Site www.nrfa.fire.org.nz The Fire Danger Levels correspond to FWI figures described below: Low Fire Danger FWI 0 – 7 Moderate Fire Danger FWI 8 – 16 High Fire Danger FWI 17 – 31 Very High / Extreme Fire Danger FWI 32 +

II.

Forest restrictions for each fire danger level are as follows: Moderate Fire Danger Smoking restricted to roads and cleared firebreaks. All relevant staff and contractors to be advised of increasing level of fire danger. High Fire Danger

All smoking within forest boundary banned. All relevant staff and contractors to be advised of increasing level of fire danger. Logging and silvicultural gangs are to cease all operations 1 hour before normal knock off time and stay on site until knock off, ie. cease operations at 1600hrs – leave site at 1700hrs. Regular communication to be maintained with SPRFD.

Very High Fire Danger / Extreme Fire Danger All operations in the forest to be banned. No access permits to be issued. Access to forest restricted to authorised personnel only. Forest patrols to be undertaken by staff. Contact to be made with all relevant Fire Authorities, i.e. SPRFD, Department of Conservation and District Council. 3.

INFORMATION – PERSONNEL, EQUIPMENT AND NEIGHBOURS

3.1

Neighbour contacts

Name/Organisation

GMP FIRE PLAN

Location – if other than local

6

Business phone

AH phone

May 2004


APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN

4.

STANDING INSTRUCTIONS

4.1

Priorities Except where there is a danger to life, fire control and suppression of fire at ______________ Forest shall take priority over all other activities within the Group Member’s property. The following priorities are laid down: • Protection of life • Protection of property • Fires damaging soil and water values

4.2 Required Clothing for fires The dress standard for attending fires and controlled burn-offs are those as described in the Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Forest Operations – Rules for Safety at Fires and burn-offs, Dress Standard, which are as follows: Persons attending fires or burn-offs shall be safely clad in clothes that offer protection from: • physical injury; • exposure to radiant heat; • build up of metabolic heat; • exposure to water or chemicals. Minimum standard of dress is: • steel capped footwear that gives support to the ankles; • ankle to wrist clothing or overalls of fire resistant material; • safety helmet. Clothing that is unacceptable includes: • nylon or synthetic clothing or underwear; • shorts or short-sleeved shirts; • clothing that restricts normal movement; • protective clothing or equipment that may restrict vision. Chainsaw safety trousers and some chaps are not fire-resistant and they shall not be worn while actively involved in fire suppression on the fire line. 4.3 General Communications All communications that relate directly to fire prevention, fire danger levels, assistance at fires etc, shall be directed to _________________________ In the event of an emergency, main communication will be via cell phones where practical. 4.4 Chain of command In the event of a fire at _____________ Forest the person in charge will be the PRFO of the Fire Authority in charge of fighting the fire. The SLG Group Member and staff will fit into whatever role is required by the fire authority with ultimate responsibility being to the Landowner or Forest Manager. 4.5 Fire Plans Fire plans are to be updated on a bi-annual basis and are for the period 1st January to 31st December of the following year. As well as an emergency action plan, the fire plan will have a section titled “Fire Maintenance Plan”, that will detail ongoing fire prevention work that will include: • maintenance of fire-breaks and tracks; • maintenance of fire ponds; • any other fire prevention maintenance work;

GMP FIRE PLAN

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May 2004


APPENDIX ONE FIRE PLAN

5.

Fire Maintenance Plan

5.1

Introduction The aim of this section is to detail the necessary work required to place the forest in a position that the density and condition of fire-breaks are up to a standard that will help to minimise the risk of fire spreading into the forest and if a fire does occur to enable fire fighting to proceed at an efficient level with an adequate number of well located and sign posted fire ponds throughout the forest and an efficient roading network. Any additions required to the forest Fire Map shall be detailed.

5.2

Forest Roads and Tracks Forest roads and tracks are maintained as part of the annual work programme and budget. Roads, tracks and verges must be kept clear of all vegetation. Tracks must be maintained to a standard so as to permit access to 2 wheel drive vehicles on all main access roads and 4 wheel drive vehicles on all other access tracks. Potential for converting no exit roads into no entry roads will be looked at during the course of this maintenance plan in order to comply with the Forest and Rural Fires Act.

5.3

Maintenance of firebreaks Existing firebreaks are to be maintained on a regular basis. All firebreaks need to be inspected on a regular basis to ensure they are clear of all vegetation that is of sufficient density to carry a fire.

5.4

Maintenance of fire-ponds Ongoing maintenance of fire-ponds will involve regular cleaning out of weeds and other debris and any other work that may be required to ensure ponds are full at all times and that access can be obtained to them at all times. The fire-ponds need to be sign posted.

6.

APPENDIX 1 – MAPS

6.1

Map 1 – Location of _________________ Forest

6.2

Map 2 – ___________________ Forest Fire Map

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

SUSTAINABLE LANDOWNERS GROUP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS Contents 1

Introduction..................................................................................................................................3 1.1 Activities Undertaken...........................................................................................................3

PART I - BACKGROUND TO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................3 2

Resource Management Act.........................................................................................................3 2.1 Objectives of the RMA.........................................................................................................3 2.2 Key Elements of the RMA...................................................................................................4 2.3 Resource Consent applications.......................................................................................... 5 2.4 Penalties Under the RMA....................................................................................................7

3

Other Legislation .........................................................................................................................9 3.1 Historic Places Act 1993 .....................................................................................................9 3.2 Conservation Act 1987 ......................................................................................................11 3.3 Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO) ......................................11 3.4 Forests Act 1949 (and all amendments) ...........................................................................12 3.5 Other Legislation ...............................................................................................................12

4

International Treaties and Agreements ...................................................................................13

5

Voluntary Agreements and Codes of Practice .......................................................................14 5.1 Forest Industries Training Best Practice Guidelines .........................................................14 5.2 New Zealand Standard 8409:1995 Growsafe Agrichemical Users’ Code of Practice .......14 5.3 New Zealand Forest Accord ..............................................................................................15 5.4 Principles for Commercial Plantation Forest Management in New Zealand .....................15

PART II – LEGAL REQUIREMENTS REGISTER ................................................................................15 6

Resource Consent Requirements ...........................................................................................15 Land Preparation .........................................................................................................................16 Roading .......................................................................................................................................16 Silviculture ...................................................................................................................................16 Chemical application and storage ...............................................................................................17 Harvesting ...................................................................................................................................17 Noise ..........................................................................................................................................17 Waterways ...................................................................................................................................18 Table 1. Legal and Voluntary Requirements Associated with Environmental Effects of Forestry Operations.

7

19

Council Contacts .......................................................................................................................22

Appendix 1 - Useful References ...........................................................................................................27 Appendix 2 - Resource Management Act .............................................................................................28 Appendix 3 – Archaeological Contacts ..................................................................................................31 Appendix 4 – Historic Places Trust Contacts ........................................................................................35

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 1

Introduction Understanding and compiling with the legal requirements associated with forestry activities is an essential component of the Sustainable Landowners Group Management Plan, and is a key requirement of FSC certification. Principle One of the FSC Principles and Criteria states that Forest Management shall respect all applicable laws of the country in which they occur, and international treaties and agreements to which the country is a signatory, and comply with all FSC Principles and Criteria. This register of legal requirements identifies the activities that SLG Members undertake that have the potential to have environmental effects and that are controlled by the Resource Management Act 1991 or other legislation, and highlights the areas and activities where consents or other permits are likely to be required. This registered also covers voluntary codes or guidelines that the Sustainable Landowners Group should comply with. This report is divided into two parts. Part I provides a background to the legal requirements, including the various pieces of legislation that control forestry activities, while Part II presents the legal requirements in a series of tables.

1.1

Activities Undertaken The following activities that are undertaken by Wrightson Forestry Services and the Sustainable Landowners Group may be subject to legislative requirements: Land preparation Roading/tracking/skid formation Road maintenance/grading Harvesting Planting Chemical application Pest control Burn offs For the above activities this Legal Requirements Register covers the following: Background to the policy and procedural matters– includes the requirements of the Resource Management Act, the consent process, and other relevant legislation Voluntary Agreements and Codes of Practice Consent requirements based on activities undertaken by Members

PART I - BACKGROUND TO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 2

Resource Management Act

2.1

Objectives of the RMA The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) has brought the management of most natural and physical resources under one piece of legislation. It has a single purpose – to promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources. The RMA is concerned with environmental protection, with consultation, and with the effect of the activities upon the environment which includes, amongst other things, people and communities. The focus therefore is on the management or control of the adverse effects of activities on the physical environment, that is, the RMA is said to be effects based.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 2.2

Key Elements of the RMA There is a clear structure for the regulatory tools established by the RMA (refer figure below). At the top are national documents, for example, National Policy Statements, National Standards, Water Conservation Orders and the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement. At the second level are district and regional plans. Plans prepared by District and Regional Councils must conform with these national documents. Those plans relevant to forestry operations are discussed below. Resource Management Act 1991

NZ Coastal Policy Statement

National Policy Statements

Water Conservation Orders

Regional Policy Statements

Regional Coastal Plans

2.2.1

Regional Plans

Regional Policy Statements Regional Policy Statements (RPS) are compulsory under the RMA and are prepared by Regional Councils. Regional and district plans may not conflict with the RPS, which make them reasonably powerful planning tools. As with most aspects of the RMA public consultation must be carried out before a RPS is ratified and implemented. Policy statements cover issues such as:

2.2.2

water quality and quantity

discharge of contaminants

use of land for the purposes of soil conservation

adverse effects of hazardous substances

Regional Plans Regional plans are prepared by regional councils and are voluntary. Councils may prepare plans if they believe that a regional plan is the best way to administer their obligations of sustainable management. Extensive consultation is required during the preparation of plans. Many regional councils have prepared separate plans covering water resources, air, discharges and erosion and sediment control. Unlike regional policy statements, regional plans may contain rules for the direct control of effects of activities.

2.2.3

District Plans District plans must be prepared by district councils, and should address the significant resource management issues in their district. The plans may contain rules, which prohibit, regulate or allow activities. They specify various categories of activities from permitted, controlled, discretionary, non-complying and prohibited. A district plan may control:

subdivision of land

actual and potential effects of use of land

noise

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS • 2.2.4

actual and potential effects of activities in relation to the surface of water

Resource Consents Identifying the requirements of resource consents under the RMA can be complicated. Firstly the proposed operation may contravene provisions set out in sections 9-20 (Part III) of the RMA. Part III covers all five types of resource consents available as follows: •

land use consents (section 9 and13)

subdivisions consents (section 11)

coastal permits (section 12)

water permits (section 14)

discharge permits (section 15)

Under Part III land use is generally permitted without a resource consent, unless it contravenes a rule in a district plan. However, activities such as discharges and water use are prohibited unless allowed by a rule in a regional plan or district plan or a resource consent. The relevant plans need to be consulted to find out what level of regulation has been use by the council to control activities. If an activity is not controlled by a plan then only the provisions in the RMA need to be complied with. Through the use of plans regional and district councils can classify activities as permitted, controlled, discretionary, non-complying or prohibited. Definitions of these are given below. Permitted activities – activities which are specified as permitted activities can occur, without the need to obtain resource consent, if they are able to comply with the conditions stated within the rule. Controlled activities – activities which the Council will grant a resource consent for. That consent will include conditions relating to the matters which the Council has stated that it will exercise its control over. Discretionary activities – activities over which the Council has retained its discretion as to whether it will grant the resource consent or not. The Council will in considering the application be guided by the policies contained within the Plan, Regional Policy Statement and any relevant national documents. Conditions may be included on any resource consent granted. Non-complying activities – activities which are stated in the plan as being non-complying, or which contravene rules in a plan or proposed plan. A resource consent must be obtained to carry out these activities and the council has the discretion to decline applications. Prohibited activity – activities which a plan expressively prohibits and for which no resource consent can be granted. Many councils are using a performance standard approach rather than listing activities as permitted, controlled etc. They list standards (e.g. noise levels, height restrictions) within which any complying activity is allowed. An activity that breaches any of the compliance standards may then become discretionary for that particular aspect. In general this approach is more enabling. 2.3

Resource Consent applications The RMA sets out the types of information required, time constraints and the decision making process for all resource consents. Section 88 of the RMA sets out what must be included in any application, including a detailed description of the activity, location, and an assessment of the effects on the environment (assessment of environmental effects). The RMA also specifies what information is required in the assessment of environmental effects. The information in the application needs to be in such detail as corresponds with the scale and significance of the actual or potential effects of the activity on the environment.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS Generally consultation with neighbours and other affected by a proposal should be started as early as possible prior to lodging an application. Effective consultation can help limit submissions in opposition. The consultation may result in written approvals being given by affected parties. This may allow the application to be processed on a non-notified basis. The processing of consent applications can vary depending on a number of factors, for example, whether there will be significant effects on the environment and if written approval can be obtained. The better the prepared the application, the faster and simpler the procedure will be for the applicant and the council. The first hurdle is to provide an adequate amount of information. Councils may request additional information within any reasonable time before holding a hearing. Once the council is satisfied that adequate information has been supplied it must decide whether to process the application as either a notified or non-notified application. This decision must be made within 10 working days of receipt of the application/additional information. The non-notified application process is generally faster and simpler that the notified application process. The criteria for non-notification are essentially that: •

the activity is a controlled or discretionary activity and that the plan states the written approval of affected persons need not be obtained, or

the activity is a controlled activity and written approval is obtained from every person in the council’s opinion who is adversely affected, unless the council considers it unreasonable to require such approvals, or

the activity is discretionary or non-complying and the adverse effects on the environment are minor and written approval can be obtained from every person in the council’s opinion who is adversely affected, unless the council considers it unreasonable to require such approvals.

There is no opportunity for submissions or hearings under this process so decisions should be made within 20 working days of receipt of application/additional information. Notified applications require that the council notify the application to the general public and calls for submissions. Notification includes site notices, advertisements in newspapers and contacting neighbours and other affected parties. The decision to notify must be made within 10 working days of receipt of application/additional information. Submissions on the application must be in writing and received by the council by the close of the submission period. This is 20 working days. Hearings may be necessary if requested by anyone who has made a submission. If a hearing is required the council must set a date that is no more than 25 working days from the close of submissions. At least 10 working days notice must be given of the hearing to the applicant and the submitters. The council planning officer will prepare a report for the hearing. At the hearing all those submitters who wish to be heard will be able to present their position. The applicant will usually call expert evidence, present submissions and provide suggested consent conditions. If the Council has a conflict in hearing the application, an independent commissioner will be appointed. The Council must give written notice of its decision no later than 15 working days after the conclusion of the hearing. The applicant or any person who made a decision on the applications may appeal the decision to the Environment Court. Notice must be served on the Court within 15 working days of the notice of decision being received, and must be served on the Council and every other person who made a submission within the next five working days. Environment Court hearings can take months before a date is set to hear the appeal. Appeals are generally an expensive and time-consuming process. It is therefore preferable to use other methods available to keep the matter out of court. Providing convincing information and effective consultation are two steps which will reduce the chance of any objections being raised against SLG Member’s activities.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 2.4

Penalties Under the RMA There can be significant penalties imposed if Company’s or individuals do not comply with the requirements of the Resource Management Act. Should councils need to consider enforcement action for non-compliance with the RMA or for a breach of consent conditions, there are a range of methods available for dealing with offences. These are: •

Infringement Notices

Abatement Notices

Interim Enforcement Orders

Enforcement Orders

Prosecution

Infringement notices allow local bodies the option of dealing with offences without resorting to court action. The decision about whether to use infringement notices or take action through the courts will be at the discretion of the council enforcement officer. Penalties range from $300 to $1000, depending on the seriousness of the offence. An abatement notice is intended to deal with less serious breaches under the Resource Management Act. Abatement notices are usually issued for a breach of consent conditions. The notice will require that the consent holder take particular action within a specified time frame. Councils will usually have a set fee for serving an abatement notice and will often charge for time spent following up the matter once the notice is served. An enforcement order is an order made by the Environment Court that requires a person to cease, or prohibit a person from doing something. Any person may apply to the Court for an enforcement order. Interim enforcement orders may be made by Environment or District Court judges without the need to hold a hearing. Finally, the council may wish to take a formal prosecution that can result in lengthy and expensive court hearings.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS Processing Resource Consents: Stages and Timeframes

Submit application to council s.88 Request for further information s.92

10 days

Information Yes

Public notiďŹ cation? s.93/94

20 days

Submissions received s.96

Further information requested

Pre-hearing meeting

No

Further information requested 20 days

25 days

Information received

Information received

Council hearing s.101

15 days Council decision s.101 15 days

Appeal to Environment Court s.120

Appeal to High Court s.287

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 3

Other Legislation There are numerous pieces of legislation that touch on environmental issues. Those that are of relevance to the Company are: •

Resource Management Act 1991

Historic Places Act 1993

Conservation Act 1987

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996

Forests Act 1949 and all amendments

Of these the RMA has by far the greatest impact on forestry operations and is discussed above. The remainder of the Acts are discussed below. 3.1

Historic Places Act 1993 The intent of the Historic Places Act is to promote the identification and conservation of New Zealand’s historic heritage. The definition of an historic area and a historic place used in the Historic Places Act, 1993 and most commonly referred to in Regional and District Plans is: “Historic area means an area of land that – a)

Contains an inter-related group of historic places; and

b)

Forms part of the historical and cultural heritage of New Zealand; and

c)

Lies within the territorial limits of New Zealand”

“Historic Place a)

Means – i)

Any land (including an archaeological site); or

ii)

Any building or structure (including part of a building or structure); or

iii)

Any combination of land and a building or structure, -

That forms part of the historical and cultural heritage of New Zealand and lies within the territorial limits of New Zealand; and b)

Includes anything that is in or fixed to such land”

The Historic Places Act provides a system for registering historic places and areas under two categories: •

Category I: Places of special or outstanding historical or cultural significance or value (usually of national importance); and

Category II: Places of historical or cultural heritage significance or value (usually of local importance).

Often historic sites are marked on District Plan maps and listed within the schedules of the Plan.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 3.1.1

Archaeological Sites The definition of an archaeological site that is used in the Historic Places Act, 1993 and most commonly referred to in Regional and District Plans is: “Archaeological site means any place in New Zealand that – a)

Either –

b)

i)

Was associated with human activity that occurred before 1900; or

ii) and

Is the site of the wreck of any vessel where that wreck occurred before 1900;

Is or may be able through investigation by archaeological methods to provide evidence relating to the history of New Zealand”

All such sites are protected by the Act. Under the Act it is an offensive to destroy, modify or damage in any way an archaeological site, or suspected site, unless an authority has been obtained from the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. It is frequently assumed that archaeological sites are only Maori. This is not the case. Any pre 1900 site whether European or Maori is an archaeological site. There are a variety of archaeological site types in New Zealand. These may include: •

Maori pa sites – fortified banks and ditches and are generally located on cliffs, headlands or ridges. They are frequently located in the coastal belt or along rivers, streams and in other food gathering areas and other areas suitable for defensive purposes.

Cultivation areas and gardens

Middens

Pits and terraces

Rock Art sites – these may contain paintings, drawings, carvings or engravings

Shipwrecks

Other Historic sites – these generally contain evidence of whaling, trading, mining or remains of mission stations, military redoubts, buildings and structures

Applications can be made to the Historic Places Trust to undertake operations even if they modify, damage or destroy an archaeological site. Any such application must include: •

a description of the activity for which the authority is sought;

a description of the archaeological site;

an assessment of the archaeological, Maori or other relevant values and the effects of the proposal on those values;

a statement of whether consultation with tangata whenua (or other persons likely to be affected) has taken place; and

the consent of the owner if the owner is not the applicant.

The Historic Places Trust can grant an application to modify, damage or destroy the specific site. The Trust generally imposes conditions on any authority, and any work being carried out pursuant to those conditions must be undertaken by suitably skilled specialists.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS If the Trust suspects an archaeological site is being damaged it may investigate, with the costs borne by the offender. Fines can be imposed. As part of the planning of a forestry operation within an area where there are known or suspected archaeological sites a field survey should be undertaken. 3.1.2

Traditional Sites Traditional sites are places or sites that are important for reasons of historic significance, or spiritual association with Maori people. They frequently have no physical remnants of human activity and may be protected under the Historic Places Act but only if listed in the waahi tapu schedule.

3.2

Conservation Act 1987 There are two main areas in which the Conservation Act could impact on operations. The Act set up conservation parks, ecological areas, watercourse areas and marginal strips which are managed by the Department of Conservation. These areas have special protection under the Act and so operations upstream or nearby must be planned with caution. Any operations within these areas would require a Concession from the Department. Secondly, the Act provides for the protection of indigenous fish, recreational fisheries and fish habitat. This protection is generally covered in the RMA but specific requirements are stated under the Fresh Water Fisheries regulations for fish passage (important when installing culverts in the bed of watercourses).

3.3

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO) The HSNO legislation has as its objective to provide a streamlined and up-to-date system for managing risks from hazardous substances and new organisms. There are a number of changes from the previous legislation particularly in respect of how hazardous substances are managed and controlled. The regulations to accompany the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO), 1996 came into effect on 2 July 2001. This will result in various pieces of legislation having to be appealed including: •

Explosives Act, 1957

Dangerous Goods Act, 1974

Toxic Substances Act, 1979

Pesticides Act, 1979 (with minor exceptions)

Other legislation such as the Resource Management Act, 1991, the Building Act and the Transport Act will be amended to be consistent with the HSNO legislation. Eventually Dangerous Goods Licences will disappear. The Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA) will now assign a classification(s) to each hazardous substance that reflects the type and degree of hazard. The higher the degree of hazard the greater the level of control that will be applied. If a hazardous substance is hazardous in more than one way the controls will be linked to all the hazards. The hazardous substances classes are: •

Explosiveness

Flammability

Oxidising ability

Corrosivity

Toxicity

Ecotoxicity

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS The HSNO Act regulations specify the property performance controls (such as storage and transportation) that must be met in controlling hazardous substances. This is different from the previous legislation, which was prescriptive, as the regulations do not specify how this is to be achieved. This approach has been adopted in an attempt to provide certainty as to what acceptable standards are while still enabling flexibility to adopt new technologies. Codes of Practice will, in many circumstances, provide the “means of compliance”. This will mean that hazardous substances, such as fuel, will need to be managed according to the controls applicable for that particular substance. The controls will be based on the classification given to the substances. Until ERMA completes the transfer project (this aims to transfer all existing hazardous substances to the new classification system) it is unclear what controls will be required. The HSNO controls are the bottom line environmental requirements with regard to storage, transportation and use with the RMA being the main legislation that will control the effects of hazardous facilities on the environment on a site-by-site basis. District and Regional plans can require additional controls beyond HSNO. This may be appropriate in circumstances where an area is prone to natural hazards or is in a sensitive ecological environment. In additional to meeting the HSNO controls it will still be necessary to check the relevant district plan to see what rules there are relating to hazardous substances. 3.4

Forests Act 1949 (and all amendments) The Forests Act 1949, and its amendments, is administered by the Ministry of Forestry. In general it provides for the management and protection of forests and forest land. It allows for the collection of forestry statistics and the control of harmful imports and exports. In 1993 the Forests Act was amended by adding provisions for indigenous forests. These require forest owners to have an approved sustainable forest management plan or permit before timber can be harvested.

3.5

Other Legislation The other legislation that Members need to be aware of is as follows: •

Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Act 1941 – Provides power s for regional councils as catchment boards to promote soil conservation; the prevention and mitigation of soil erosion; the prevention of damage by floods and the use of land in a manner that will help in the achievement of these purposes.

Local Government Act 1974 (in relation to roading) - Establishes functions, powers and procedures for local government.

Rating Powers Act 1984 - Provides powers for local authorities to make and levy rates. The Act makes provisions for differential rating; the payment of rates; remission and postponement of rates and rates relief.

Health and Safety in Employment Act - Provides for the protection of employees from hazards including hazardous substances. It regulates the conduct of self employed persons, employees and employers

Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977- Provides for the safeguarding of life and property related to fire in forests and rural areas

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

4

International Treaties and Agreements SLG Members must be aware of the international Treaties and agreements that the New Zealand Government has committed to. Compliance with these agreements is generally through National legislation and strategy. The web site Error! Bookmark not defined. has good information on international environmental treaties. The summarised information below has largely been taken from this web site.

4.1

The Rio Declaration on Environment and Development (1992) New Zealand is a signatory to the Rio Declaration. This agreement has 27 Principles covering the need to legislate for the protection of resources; the need to equitably meet the needs of future generations; the need for environmental protection; the global need to eradicate poverty; the needs to address problems in developing countries; global participation in protecting and restoring the earth’s ecosystem; the need to eliminate unsustainable ways of living; public access to information and the need to share expertise and knowledge; polluter pays principles; the importance of younger generations, women and indigenous communities; the destructive nature of war and the need for both states and individuals to cooperate in good faith.

4.2

The Montreal Process (1993) New Zealand has ratified this international agreement which was developed with the goal of developing a scientifically rigorous set of criteria and indicators that could be used to measure forest management. The Montreal Process applies to the management of 90% of the world’s Boreal and Temperate forests. There are seven criteria: 1. Conservation of biological diversity 2. Maintenance of productive capacity of forest ecosystem 3. Maintenance of forest ecosystem health 4. Conservation and maintenance of soil and water resources 5. Maintenance of forest contribution to global carbon cycles 6. Maintenance and enhancement of long term multiple socio-economic benefits to meet the needs of societies 7. Legal, institutional and economic framework for forest conservation and sustainable management. Signatory Governments must report to the Montreal Process committee on progress with meeting indicators of sustainable forest management. Forest Research is doing this for landowners in New Zealand.

4.3

Agenda 21 Agenda 21 is a comprehensive plan of action to be taken globally, nationally and locally by organisations and governments belonging to the United Nations, in every area in which humans impact on the environment. It is primarily concerned with developing a framework for countries to achieve sustainable development.

4.4

Convention on Biological Diversity The New Zealand Government is a signatory to the Convention on Biological diversity, which has the following objectives: To conserve biological diversity, promote the sustainable use of its components, and encourage equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources. Such equitable sharing includes appropriate access to genetic resources, as well as appropriate transfer of technology.

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5.

Voluntary Agreements and Codes of Practice Of these, the Sustainable Landowners Group adhere to the following non-legislative agreements, voluntary guidelines and codes:

5.1

Forest Industries Training Best Practice Guideline

New Zealand Standard 8409:1995 Growsafe Agrichemical Users’ Code of Practice

New Zealand Forest Accord

Principles for Commercial Plantation Forest Management in New Zealand.

Forest Industries Training Best Practice Guidelines There are 13 guidelines included in the best practice series as follows: •

Land preparation

Tree planting

Personal protective equipment

Chainsaw use

Tree felling

Mobile plant

Loading

Cable logging

Silvicultural pruning

Transport

Road and landing construction

Fire fighting and controlled burn offs

Working with helicopters.

The guidelines have been developed to improve worker safety and performance. This includes environmental performance and therefore has implications on meeting the requirements under the Resource Management Act. 5.2

New Zealand Standard 8409:1995 Growsafe Agrichemical Users’ Code of Practice Agrichemicals are often classified as hazardous substances. The safe storage, transportation and use of agrichemicals are largely a matter of good practice. The standard covers all aspects of agrichemical operations, including: •

Management;

Transport;

Storage;

Application; and

Disposal.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS The objectives of the standard are to: “ensure that if agrichemicals are needed, they are used safely, responsibly, conservatively and effectively, with minimal adverse impact on the environment and human health”. The majority of regional and/or district plans that have rules relating to the discharge of agrichemicals classify the discharge to land from ground based and aerial applications as a permitted activity as long as the application is undertaken in accordance with the Code of Practice. There will often also be other conditions for the activity to be permitted. The conditions will be to avoid problems such as spray drift. Plans should be checked for the area of operation to ensure that the use of agrichemicals is permitted. 5.3

New Zealand Forest Accord The New Zealand Forest Accord is an agreement between conservation groups and commercial forestry groups such as the New Zealand Forest Owners Association and the New Zealand farm Forestry Association. The Accord, as found in the Appendices: •

Defines areas where it is inappropriate to establish plantation forestry

Recognises the importance of New Zealand’s indigenous forests, and the need for their protection and conservation

Recognises the plantation forestry has an important role to play as a renewable source of fibre and energy source

SLG Group Members should be familiar with the New Zealand Forest Accord, and comply with it at all times. The New Zealand Forest Accord is appended.

5.4

Principles for Commercial Plantation Forest Management in New Zealand. The New Zealand Forest Owners Association and the New Zealand Farm Forestry Association, and a variety of conservation groups, including Forest and Bird and WWF signed this agreement in December 1995. The Parties agreed that: •

The inter-dependence of ecological, economic and social sustainability must be recognised.

Efficient and effective monitoring is required in the implementation of these Principles

In the implementation of sustainable land management, rural land users should be treated equitably, based on the environmental effects of their activities

Management practices must meet or improve on all statutory requirements and accepted best practices.

SLG Group Members must recognise and comply with these Principles. The Principles are appended. PART II – LEGAL REQUIREMENTS REGISTER 6.

Resource Consent Requirements It is important that the Members of the Sustainable Landowners Group maintain a procedure to identify and have access to legal and other requirements to which the organisation subscribes, that are applicable to the environmental aspects of its activities. Table 1 “Legal and Voluntary Requirements Associated with Environmental Effects of Forestry Operations” provides a guide to the regulatory requirements and the requirements of the voluntary agreements that the Sustainable Landowners Group adheres to.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS Table 1 summarises the requirements of the activities and highlights areas where further advice needs to be sought from the local authorities in the area. As there are a large number of resource management plans and policies, which are specific to each district and region and as these plans are subject to reviews and changes it is neither practical nor useful to list the exact requirements of all the plans throughout the country. This register identifies the activities that are likely to have requirements and provides the information to enable the local operators to seek further advice and if required apply for the appropriate consents and permits. A description of the activities covered in the table are described in more detail below. General Requirements Under Part III of the RMA land use is generally permitted without a resource consent, unless it contravenes a rule in a district plan. However, activities such as discharges and water use are prohibited unless allowed by a rule in a regional plan or district plan or a resource consent. If there is no relevant regional plan the activity will require resource consent if it contravenes the relevant section of the RMA. The relevant sections of the Resource Management Act are included in Appendix 2 of this document. Land Preparation Land preparation covers the following activities: •

v-ploughing

root raking

digger mounding

vegetation crushing and clearing

burn off

Consent requirements are likely to be based on whether the soils in the district or region are erosion prone. If this is the case it is likely that the District Council will have rules covering earthworks in the District Plan and that the Regional Council will have a plan covering land based activities. For example, the Gisborne District Council Combined Regional Land and District Plan has a chapter on Land and the West Coast Regional Council has prepared a Proposed Soil Conservation and Erosion Control Plan. Under both of these documents resource consents are required for forestry operations. The methods for carrying out the work to avoid the potential adverse effects should be included in the consent application. Burn offs are likely to be permitted activities in plans subject to certain conditions. Check the relevant District Plan as well as the Regional Council Air and/or Discharge Plan, if there is one. Roading Roading operations have the potential to cause significant erosion problems. For this reason those Regional Councils with erosion prone soils are likely to have land plans covering earthworks (as per land preparation above). District Councils will also have rules in their plans regarding roading. These tend to relate to legal roads as opposed to establishment roads and extraction tracks. The following matters are commonly found in District Plans and have specific conditions relating to them: •

site distances from an access onto or off for example, a highway and arterial road

locations of vehicle crossings

widths of vehicle access strips

on-site turning

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS •

trip generation, including heavy vehicles

riparian margins

Silviculture

The planting of trees themselves are unlikely to require resource consent. Where consent may be required is if the plantings are alongside roads or within a certain distance of residential buildings and/or zone boundaries. These will be specified in the District Plan and be related to shading of the road (e.g results in shading of the road between 10.00am and 2.00pm on the shortest day) and set backs (e.g. no more than 50 metres from a residential building. If the permitted activity conditions cannot be meet consent will be required. Chemical application and storage The use of agrichemicals is intended to kill and control weeds that compete with the planted crop. Agrichemical applications are covered by the RMA. Those regional councils with a plan covering discharges are most likely to have rules covering the discharge of agrichemicals. In many instances ground based application will be a permitted activity provided conditions are met. The aerial application is likely to be at least a controlled activity meaning that council cannot decline the application but can place conditions on the consent. The activity will also be subject to standards and terms listed in the plan. District plans will vary greatly over the use of hazardous substances. While the regional council assess the application based on the effects of the discharge on soil, water and air etc the district council usually controls the storage, signage and site design. With the introduction of the HSNO Act changes will need to be made to most district plans as the HSNO requirements will be the bottom line with anything additional being required through the district plan. The HSNO Act is discussed in the Legislation chapter. Harvesting A harvesting system should be chosen in conjunction with minimising the environmental effects. The operation will have to comply with the environmental standards defined by the local authority. As with land preparation and roading, earthworks requirements will need to be met as hauling will cause disturbance to the land. As per the land preparation and roading section if consents are required for these it is likely that consent will also be required for harvesting operations. One land use consent application can be prepared to cover all three activities. Councils may list “exotic forestry” as a particular activity in the district plan with consent only required if standard conditions cannot be met. Indigenous vegetation clearance is likely to be a permitted or controlled activity in the district plan as long as the area to be cleared does not exceed any area conditions. These areas are usually quite small and are not designed to cover indigenous forestry operations. Approval will also be needed under the Forests Act (sustainable management plan or permit). There may also be regional council requirements if soil disturbance is involved (i.e. not aerial harvesting). Noise Noise, is controlled by the district council. Resource consent will be required for activities if the standards in the plan cannot be complied with. The noise level is that generally measured at the boundary with any residential property. The likely maximum noise generated by the activity shall not exceed the following levels (there will be some differences in district plans which will need to be checked but in general the below will apply): Day L10 = 55 dBA Night L10 = 40-55 dBA There may also be a Lmax level. The definitions of day and night will vary between plans. The plans will need to be checked.

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May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS Waterways Activities such as the diversion and damming of water may be required as part of constructing a crossing, culvert or bridge. These are regional council matters. It is possible that if the construction of the structure is permitted the diversion or damming associated with it may also be permitted. This would be subject to conditions like catchment size, quantity of water, the course of the water always remaining within the bed, not being permanent and not causing erosion, land instability, sedimentation or property damage. The extraction of gravel is only likely to be permitted in regional plans if the gravel is taken from the dry areas of the watercourse, a maximum volume not being exceeded and away from any structures. The table over the page summarises the types of activities undertaken and the legal and other requirements of these activities.

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

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May 2004


GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

19

• Quarrying & gravel removal

• Maintenance of landings & processing areas

• Maintenance of roads & tracks

• Construction of landings & processing areas

Roading • Construction of roads & tracks

Activity

burn offs

Land Preparation v-ploughing root raking digger mounding vegetation crushing vegetation clearing

Activity

Type of Consent

The quarrying of rock is likely to require a Minerals Permit (gravel extraction frmo rivers will also require consent).

Yes, as for Land Preparation above, dependent on the soils in the area and proximity to watercourses.

RMA consent likely to be required?

Yes, for the combustion of organic waste. Check with the Council as the activity may be permitted.

Minerals Permit Land Use

Land Use

Type of Consent

Fire permit Air Discharge Permit

Yes, dependent on the susceptibility of the soils to erosion and proximity to watercourses. Land Use Those regions where soil erosion is an issue will have a plan covering earthworks.

RMA consent likely to be required?

Ministry of Commerce

Regional/District

Consenting Authority

Rural Fire Authority Regional Council

Regional/District

Consenting Authority

Table 1: Legal and Voluntary Requirements Associated with Environmental Effects of Forestry Operations

If consents are required for earthworks it is also likely that they will be necessary for Quarrying operations. Check if discharge permits are required for stormwater or dust from the quarry.

District Council consents likely to be related to legal road use (eg traffice movements).

Comments/Other Requirements

There may also be District Council requirements in the case where removal of ground cover will cause erosion.

Comments/Other Requirements

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

20

Storage of hazardous substances and materials (e.g. fuel, explosives & chemicals)

Indigenous

Harvesting • Selective aerial • Exotic clearfell

Silviculture • Planting • Thinning • Pruning

• Land Use Consent

District Council

District/Regional

District Council

May also need consent from regional council if soil disturbance involved (i.e. not aerial harvesting)

Will also have to meet requirements under HSNO for the use, transportation and disposal of hazardous substances

(District Plan may also have restrictions on flight paths and noise) District Council

Will include discharges to land, water and air

Some crossing in small catchment s may be permitted but need to check with Regional Council. If diversion of water required to construct crossing this may also need a water permit.

Comments/Other Requirements

Regional Council

Regional Council

Land Use consent for construction of crossing. Possibly water permit for temporary diversion of water.

Discharge Permit

Consenting Authority

Type of Consent

Only likely to require consent Land Use if within a certain distance of a residential building and/or zone boundary Land Use Yes consent likely to be required but dependent on the susceptibility of the soils to erosion and proximity to watercourses. Those regions where soil erosion is an issue will have a plan covering earthworks Land Use Yes consent likely to be required but dependent on the area to be cleared

Chemical application • Ground based agrichemicals Yes consent likely, maybe • Application of fertiliser permitted in the Plan subject to • Aerial application conditions.

RMA consent likely to be required? Construction of bridges culverts & Yes, but dependant on size of water crossings (structures) catchment upstream and/or size of culvert or bridge. Check with Regional Council.

Activity

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Dust to air

21

diversion of flow

Activities in the bed of a river (other than crossings) gravel extraction

Yes, for the discharge of contaminants (eg. sediment).

Discharge • Contaminants to water

Yes, if diversion of water required to construct crossing. Dependent on catchment size.

Yes, but dependent on volume, river and proximity to structures

Water Permit

Land Use

Yes, mainly from quarry operations Discharge Permit

Discharge Permit

Yes, if cannot met the standards in Land Use the district plan

Noise • From any forestry activity

Type of Consent

RMA consent likely to be required?

Activity

Regional Council

Regional Council

Regional Council

Regional Council

District Council

Consenting Authority

If the structure (ie. culvert) construction is permitted the diversion may also be

Minor volumes of gravel extraction will be permitted if from dry areas. Need to check volume with Regional Council.

Mostly likely to be a regional council matter. District council may include conditions relating to dust in earthworks requirements.

If the structure (ie. culvert) construction is permitted the conditions may include sediment disturbance

Noise standards will be split into day and night time and most probably measured at the boundary with any residential land

Comments/Other Requirements

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

8

Council Contacts The table on the following page lists all the local authorities in New Zealand who have a legal responsibility under the RMA. While the addresses are unlikely to change, resource consent personal will change as staff change. It is recommended that this be updated every two years.

Region

Southland

Otago

Canterbury

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Consent Authority

Environment Southland PO Box 90116, INVERCARGILL Ph: (03) 215-6197 Southland District Council PO Box 903, INVERCARGILL (03) 218-7259 Invercargill City Council Private Bag 90104, INVERCARGILL Ph: (03) 218-1959 Gore District Council PO Box 8, GORE Ph: (03) 208-9080 Otago Regional Council Private Bag 1954, DUNEDIN Ph: (03) 474-0827 Queenstown Lakes District Council (Civic Corp) Private Bag 50077, QUEENSTOWN Ph: (03) 442-7333 Central Otago District Council PO Box 122, ALEXANDRA Ph: (03) 448-6979 Waitaki District Council Private Bag 50058, OAMARU Ph: (03) 434-8060 *also Environment Canterbury Dunedin City Council PO Box 5045, DUNEDIN Ph: (03) 477-4000 Clutha District Council PO Box 25, BALCLUTHA Ph: (03) 418-1350 Environment Canterbury PO Box 345, CHRISTCHURCH Ph: (03) 365-3828 Waimate District Council PO Box 122, WAIMATE Ph: (03) 689-8079 Timaru District Council PO Box 522; TIMARU (03) 684-8199 MacKenzie District Council PO Box 52, FAIRLIE Ph: (03) 685-8514 Ashburton District Council PO Box 94, ASHBURTON Ph: (03) 308-5139 Selwyn District Council Private Bag 1, LEESTON Ph: (03) 324-8080 Banks Peninsula District Council PO Box 4, LYTTELTON Ph: (03) 328-8065 Christchurch City Council PO Box 237, CHRISTCHURCH Ph: (03) 379-1660

22

Contact

John Engel Consents Manager Bruce Halligan Manager – Resource Planning Senior Resource Management Officer Peter York Marian Weaver Consents Manager Jane Titchener Consents Manager Bob McNeil Regulatory Manager Jack Chandra

Bruce Richards Consents Team Leader Murray Burns Regulatory Manager Leo Fietje Consents Manager Brent Donaldson Planning & Regulatory Manager Phil Doole District Planner John McKenzie Manager Planning & Regulations Michael Singleton Planning Manager John Christensen Manager Planning & Regulatory Jane Whyte Environmental Services Manager Jane Donaldson Environmental Services Manager

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

West Coast

Nelson/Marlborough

Northland

Auckland

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Wamakariri District Council Private Bag 1005, RANGIORA Ph: (03) 313-6136 Hurunui District Council PO Box 13, AMBERLEY Ph: (03) 314-8816 Kaikoura District Council PO Box 6, KAIKOURA Ph: (03) 319-5026 Waitaki District Council Private Bag 50058, OAMARU Ph: (03) 434-8060 * also Otago Regional Council West Coast Regional Council PO Box 66, GREYMOUTH Ph: (03) 768-0466 Westland District Council Private Bag 704, HOKITIKA (03) 755-8321 Grey District Council PO Box 382, GREYMOUTH (03) 768-1700 Buller District Council PO Box 21, WESTPORT (03) 789-7239 *Unitary Authority Marlborough District Council PO Box 443, BLENHEIM (03) 578-5249 *Unitary Authority Tasman District Council Private Bag 4, RICHMOND (03) 544-8176 Nelson City Council PO Box 645, NELSON (03) 546-0200

Northland Regional Council Private Bag 9021, WHANGAREI Ph: (09) 438-4639 Far North District Council PO Box 752, KAIKOHE Ph: (09) 405-2750 Kaipara District Council Private Bag 1001, DARGAVILLE Ph: (09) 439-7059 Whangarei District Council Private Bag 9023, WHANGAREI Ph: (09) 430-4200 Auckland Regional Council Private Bag 92012, AUCKLAND Ph: (09) 379-4420 Rodney District Council Private Bag 500, OREWA Ph: (09) 426-5169 Waitakere City Council Private Bag 93109, WAITAKERE CITY Ph: (09) 836-8000 North Shore City Council Private Bag 93500, Takapuna, NORTH SHORE CITY Ph: (09) 486-8600

23

Victoria Caseley Manager Plan Administration Andrew Seierabend Environmental Services Manager Matt Hoggard Planning OďŹƒcer Jack Chandra

Toni Morrison Planning & Consents Manager Richard Simpson Manager Planning and Regulatory Martin Kennedy Environmental Services Manager Terry Archer Regulatory Services Manager John Kennedy Team Leader Resource Consents Jean Hodson Manager Resource Consents Rod Witte Resource Manager

Dave Roke Consents Manager Pat Killea Manager Resource Consents Mark Vincent Regulatory Leader Phillipa Campbell Resource Consents Manager Tristine Leguern Manager of Consents Services Ian Haggarty Consents Manager Bronwyn Allerby Consents Manager Fran Hayes Environmental Services Consents Manager

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Waikato

Bay of Plenty

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Auckland City Council Private Bag 92516, AUCKLAND Ph: (09) 379-2020 Manukau City Council Private Bag 76917, MANUKAU CITY Ph: (09) 263-7100 Franklin District Council Private Bag 5, PUKEKOHE Ph: (09) 237-1300 * also Environment Waikato Papakura District Council Private Bag 7, PAPAKURA Ph: (09) 299-8870 Environment Waikato PO Box 4010, HAMILTON EAST Ph: (07) 856-7184 Franklin District Council Private Bag 5, PUKEKOHE Ph: (09) 237-1300 * also Auckland Regional Council Thames-Coromandel District Council Private Bag 1001, THAMES (07) 868-6025 Hauraki District Council PO Box 17, PAEROA Ph: (07) 862-8609 Waikato District Council Private Bag 544, NGARUAWAHIA Ph: (07) 824-8633 Matamata-Piako District Council PO Box 266, TE AROHA Ph: (07) 884-0060 Hamilton City Council Private Bag 3010, HAMILTON Ph: (07) 838-6699 Waipa District Council Private Bag 2402, TE AWAMUTU Ph: (07) 871-7133 Otorohanga District Council PO Box 11, OTOROHANGA Ph: (07) 873-8199 South Waikato District Council Private Bag 7, TOKOROA Ph: (07) 886-1710 Rotorua District Council Private Bag 3029, ROTORUA Ph: (07) 348-4199 * also Environment BOP Waitomo District Council PO Box 404, TE KUITI Ph: (07) 878-8801 Taupo District Council Private Bag 2005, TAUPO Ph: (07) 377-9899 * also Environment BOP Environment Bay of Plenty PO Box 364, WHAKATANE Ph: (07) 0800-368-267 Rotorua District Council Private Bag 3029, ROTORUA Ph: (07) 348-4199 * also Environment Waikato

24

Mark Vinall Manager Central Area Planning Rod Dissmeyer Manager Resource Consents Peter Thom Team Leader Regulatory Usman Ali Principal Planner Harry Wilson Group Manager Resource Use Peter Thom Team Leader Regulatory David Lamason Principal Resource Planner Andrew Chaplin Planning & Environmental Manager Alistair Muirhead Development Planner Marius Rademeyer Senior Planner Gulab Bilimoria Planning Guidance Unit Manager Wayne Allan Planning Services Manager Doris Chiang Planner Sharon Robinson Senior Planner Steve Colson Planning Manager John Moran Richard Gibbs Environment & Safety Manager Bruce Gardner Manager Consents & Compliance Steve Colson Planning Manager

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Hawkes Bay

Manawatu-Wanganui

Taupo District Council Private Bag 2005, TAUPO Ph: (07) 377-9899 * also Hawkes Bay Tauranga District Council Private Bag 12022, TAURANGA Ph: (07) 577-7000 Western Bay of Plenty District Council Private Bag 12803, TAURANGA Ph: (07) 571-8008 Kawerau District Council Private Bag, KAWERAU Ph: (07) 323-8779 Whakatane District Council Private Bag 1002, WHAKATANE Ph: (07) 307-9800 Opotoki District Council PO Box 44, OPOTIKI Ph: (07) 315-6167 *Unitary Authority Gisborne District Council PO Box 747, GISBORNE Ph: (06) 867-2049 Hawkes Bay Regional Council Private Bag 6006, NAPIER Ph: (06) 835-9200 Taupo District Council Private Bag 2005, TAUPO Ph: (07) 377-9899 *also Environment Waikato Wairoa District Council PO Box 54, WAIROA Ph: (06) 838-7309 Napier City Council PO Box 6010, NAPIER Ph: (06) 835-7579 Hastings District Council Private Bag 9002, HASTINGS Ph: (06) 878-0500 Central Hawkes Bay District Council PO Box 127, WAIPAWA Ph: (06) 8578060 Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Council

Private Bag 11025, PALMERSTON NORTH Ph: (06) 952-2800 Ruapehu District Council Private Bag 1001, TAUMARUNUI Ph: (07) 895-8188 Stratford District Council PO Box 320, STRATFORD Ph: (06) 765-6099 *also Taranaki Regional Council Rangitikei District Council Private Bag 1102, MARTON Ph: (06) 327-8174 Wanganui District Council PO Box 637, WANGANUI Ph: (06) 349-0001 Manawatu District Council Private Bag 10001, FIELDING Ph: (06) 323-0000 Palmerston North City Council Private Bag 11034 PALMERSTON NORTH Ph: (06) 356-8199

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

25

Richard Gibbs Environment & Safety Manager Wade Crockett Manager City Information Todd Whittaker Team Leader Consents Stan Austin Manager of Regulatory Services David Bewley District Planner Nigel Wharton Environment & Planning Manager Trevor Freeman District Conservator Helen Codlin Environmental Manager Richard Gibbs Environment & Safety Manager Peter Freeman District Manager Paul O’Shaughnessy Senior Planner Ian MacDonald Environmental Manager Planning John Glengarry Regulatory Services Manager Chris Thompson Team Leader Consents Louise Cowan Consultant Planner Mike Avery Planning & Regulatory Manager Dorstan Hayman Regulatory & Environmental Services Manager Shane McGhie Senior Planning Officer Environmental Services Patrick Mchardy Environmental Manager Adrian Ramage Senior Planner

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Wellington

Tararua District Council PO Box 115, DANNEVIRKE Ph: (06) 374-4080 Horowhenua District Council Private Bag 4002, LEVIN Ph: (06) 368-7189 Taranaki Regional Council Private Bag 713, STRATFORD Ph: (06) 765-7127 Stratford District Council PO Box 320, STRATFORD Ph: (06) 765-6099 *also Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Council Ron Kratz Manager Regulatory Services New Plymouth District Council Private Bag 2025 NEW PLYMOUTH Ph: (06) 759-6060 Graham Young Manager Environmental Services South Taranaki District Council Private Bag 902 HAWERA Ph: (06) 278-8010 Wellington Regional Council PO Box 11646, WELLINGTON Ph: (04) 384-5708

Mike Brown Manager Environmental Services Mike Weir Manager Environmental Services Bill BayďŹ eld Director Resource Management Mike Avery Planning & Regulatory Manager

Wellington Regional Council PO Box 41, MASTERTON Kapiti Coast District Council Private Bag 601, PARAPARAUMU Ph: (04) 298-5139 Masterton District Council PO Box 444, MASTERTON Ph: (06) 378-9666 Upper Hutt City Council Private Bag 907, UPPER HUTT Ph: (04) 527-2169 Porirua City Council PO Box 50218, PORIRUA CITY Ph: (04) 237-5089 Carterton District Council PO Box 9, CARTERTON Ph: (06) 379-6626 South Wairarapa District Council

Paula Pickford Consents Manager Chris Shaw Resource Consents Manager

PO Box 6, MARTINBOROUGH Ph: (06) 306-9611 Wellington City Council PO Box 2199, WELLINGTON Ph: (04) 499-4444 Hutt City Council Private Bag 31912, LOWER HUTT Ph: (04) 570-6666

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

26

Paula Bullock Consents Manager

Sue Southey District Planner Grant Birkinshaw Planning Manager Tony Thomas Resource Consents Manager Milan Yautler Planning & Regulatory Manager Ross Smith Corporate Planning Manager George Skimming Manager Environmental Control Business Unit Robert Hayles Team Leader Consents

May 2004


APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Appendix 1 - Useful References Ministry for the Environment – Web Resources www.mfe.govt.nz The Resource Management Act and you: Getting in on the Act, (June 2001) ME number 386; 20 pages; free (PDF file, 1.26MB)

A Guide to Preparing a Basic AEE (March 1999); ME 308; Free. An assessment of environmental effects must accompany each application for a resource consent under the Resource Management Act. It sets out the effects the proposed activity is likely to have on the environment and identifies how any negative effects can be avoided or reduced. This guide is intended to help applicants understand the process and prepare a simple assessment of environmental effects.

Quality Planning – Web Resources www.qualityplanning.org.nz

Council Web pages www.localgovt.co.nz

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Appendix 2 - Resource Management Act Section 9 Restrictions on use of land (1)

No person may use any land in a manner that contravenes a rule in a district plan or proposed district plan unless the activity is—

(a)

Expressly allowed by a resource consent granted by the territorial authority responsible for the plan; or

(b)

An existing use allowed by [section 10 or section 10A].

(2)

No person may contravene [section 176 or section 178 or section 193 or section 194 (which relate to designations and heritage orders)] unless the prior written consent of the requiring authority concerned is obtained.

(3)

No person may use any land in a manner that contravenes a rule in a regional plan or a proposed regional plan unless that activity is—

(a)

Expressly allowed by a resource consent granted by the regional council responsible for the plan; or

(b)

Allowed by section 20 (certain existing lawful uses allowed).

(4)

In this section, the word “use” in relation to any land means—

(a)

Any use, erection, reconstruction, placement, alteration, extension, removal, or demolition of any structure or part of any structure in, on, under, or over the land; or

(b)

Any excavation, drilling, tunnelling, or other disturbance of the land; or

(c)

Any destruction of, damage to, or disturbance of, the habitats of plants or animals in, on, or under the land; or

(d)

Any deposit of any substance in, on, or under the land; or

(da)

Any entry on to, or passing across, the surface of water in any lake or river; or]

(e)

Any other use of land— and “may use” has a corresponding meaning.

(5)

In subsection (1) “land” includes the surface of water in any lake or river.

(6)

Subsection (3) does not apply to the bed of any lake or river.

(7)

This section does not apply to any use of the coastal marine area.

(8)

The application of this section to overflying by aircraft shall be limited to any noise emission controls that may be prescribed by a territorial authority in relation to the use of airports.]

Section 13 Restriction on certain uses of beds of lakes and rivers (1)

No person may, in relation to the bed of any lake or river,—

(a)

Use, erect, reconstruct, place, alter, extend, remove, or demolish any structure or part of any structure in, on, under, or over the bed; or

(b)

Excavate, drill, tunnel, or otherwise disturb the bed; or

(c)

Introduce or plant any plant or any part of any plant (whether exotic or indigenous) in, on, or under the bed; or

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS (d)

Deposit any substance in, on, or under the bed; or

(e)

Reclaim or drain the bed— unless expressly allowed by a rule in a regional plan and in any relevant proposed regional plan or a resource consent.]

(2)

No person may—

(a)

Enter or pass across the bed of any river or lake; or

(b)

Disturb, remove, damage, or destroy any plant or part of any plant (whether exotic or indigenous) or the habitats of any such plants or of animals in, on, or under the bed of any lake or river— in a manner that contravenes a rule in a regional plan or proposed regional plan unless that activity is—

(c)

Expressly allowed by a resource consent granted by the regional council responsible for the plan; or

(d)

Allowed by section 20 (certain existing lawful uses allowed).

(3)

This section does not apply to any use of land in the coastal marine area.

(4)

Nothing in this section limits section 9.

Section 14 Restrictions relating to water (1)

No person may take, use, dam, or divert any—

(a)

Water (other than open coastal water); or

(b)

Heat or energy from water (other than open coastal water); or

(c)

Heat or energy from the material surrounding any geothermal water— unless the taking, use, damming, or diversion is allowed by subsection (3).

(2)

No person may—

(a)

Take, use, dam, or divert any open coastal water; or

(b)

Take or use any heat or energy from any open coastal water,— in a manner that contravenes a rule in a regional plan or a proposed regional plan unless expressly allowed by a resource consent or allowed by section 20 (certain existing lawful activities allowed).

(3)

A person is not prohibited by subsection (1) from taking, using, damming, or diverting any water, heat, or energy if—

(a)

The taking, use, damming, or diversion is expressly allowed by a rule in a regional plan and in any relevant proposed regional plan] or a resource consent; or

(b)

In the case of fresh water, the water, heat, or energy is required to be taken or used for—

(i)

An individual’s reasonable domestic needs; or

(ii)

The reasonable needs of an individual’s animals for drinking water,— and the taking or use does not, or is not likely to, have an adverse effect on the

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS environment; or (c)

In the case of geothermal water, the water, heat, or energy is taken or used in accordance with tikanga Maori for the communal benefit of the tangata whenua of the area and does not have an adverse effect on the environment; or

(d)

In the case of coastal water (other than open coastal water), the water, heat, or energy is required for an individual’s reasonable domestic or recreational needs and the taking, use, or diversion does not, or is not likely to, have an adverse effect on the environment; or

(e) The water is required to be taken or used for fire-fighting purposes. Section 15 Discharge of contaminants into environment (1)

No person may discharge any—

(a)

Contaminant or water into water; or

(b)

Contaminant onto or into land in circumstances which may result in that contaminant (or any other contaminant emanating as a result of natural processes from that contaminant) entering water; or

(c)

Contaminant from any industrial or trade premises into air; or

(d)

Contaminant from any industrial or trade premises onto or into land— unless the discharge is expressly allowed by a rule [in a regional plan and in any relevant proposed regional plan], a resource consent, or regulations.

(2)

No person may discharge any contaminant into the air, or into or onto land, from—

(a)

Any place; or

(b)

Any other source, whether moveable or not,— in a manner that contravenes a rule in a regional plan or proposed regional plan unless the discharge is expressly allowed by a resource consent[, or regulations, or allowed by section 20 (certain existing lawful activities allowed).

(3)

This section shall not apply to anything to which section 15A or section 15B applies.

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Appendix 3 – Archaeological Contacts NEW ZEALAND ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION SITE RECORDINGS SCHEME REGIONAL FILEKEEPERS NORTHLAND Mr S. Bartlett 50 Cairnfield Road WHANGAREI Phone (09) 437-0841 Assistant Filekeeper: Ms J. Maingay Phone (09) 434-3247 AUCKLAND Ms S. Macready Department of Conservation Private Bag 68-908 Newton AUCKLAND Phone (09) 307-9279 or 307-4845 Fax (09) 377-2919 E-mail smacready@doc.govt.nz COROMANDEL Dr N. Ritchie Department of Conservation Private Bag 3072 HAMILTON Phone (07) 838-3363 Fax (07) 838-1004 E-mail nritchie@doc.govt.nz WAIKATO Mr O. Wilkes Department of Conservation Private Bag 3072 HAMILTON Phone (07) 838-3363 Fax (07) 838-1004 E-mail owilkes@doc.govt.nz BAY OF PLENTY Jan Worrall P O Box 767 WHAKATANE Phone (07) 312 4252 mobile (025) 296 2832 E-mail jworrall@wave.co.nz TAUPO Mr P. Fletcher P.O. Box 512 TAUPO

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Phone (07) 378-8517 EAST COAST Ms P. Bain Department of Conservation P.O. Box 668 GISBORNE Phone (06) 867-8531 Fax (06) 867-8015 E-mail pbain@doc.govt.nz TARANAKI Mr K. Day Taranaki Museum P.O. Box 315 NEW PLYMOUTH Phone (06) 758-9583 Fax (06) 758-7427 E-mail kelvin@sun.nppl.govt.nz INLAND PATEA Mr R.A.L. Batley The Homestead Moawhango TAIHAPE Phone (06) 388-0215 HAWKES BAY Mrs E. Pishief 3 Hukarere Road NAPIER Phone (06) 835-5860 E-mail epishief@xtra.co.nz WANGANUI Mr D. Weston 47 Mt View Road WANGANUI Phone (06) 343-2539 WELLINGTON Mr I. Keyes 12 Parnell St LOWER HUTT Phone (04) 938-2228 NELSON Mr S. Bagley Department of Conservation Private Bag 5 NELSON Phone (03) 546 9335

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Fax (03) 548 2805 E-mail sbagley@doc.govt.nz MARLBOROUGH Ms D. Foster 50 Devon St PICTON Phone (03) 573-6884 Fax (03) 573-6884 E-mail mamaku@mlb.planet.gen.nz

CANTERBURY Mr C. Jacomb 9 Taylors Ave CHRISTCHURCH 8005 Phone (03) 379 3251 or (03) 351 6690 E-mail cjacomb@historic.org.nz or cjacomb@clear.net.nz WEST COAST Mr L. Wright P O Box 5 PUNAKAIKI 7850 Phone (03) 731 1843 Fax (03) 731 1842 OTAGO Dr G. Hamel 42 Ann St DUNEDIN Phone (03) 477-4101 E-mail jhamel@xtra.co.nz CENTRAL OTAGO Mr P. Bristow Department of Conservation P.O. Box 5244 DUNEDIN Phone (03) 477-0677 Fax (03) 477-8626 E-mail pbristow@doc.govt.nz SOUTHLAND Mr K. Gillies Southland Museum & Art Gallery P.O. Box 1012 INVERCARGILL Phone (03) 218-9753 Fax (03) 218-9753 E-mail madbomb@southnet.co.nz

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APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

OUTLYING ISLANDS Dr B.F. Leach P.O. Box 26-073 WELLINGTON Phone (04) 478-1959 E-mail foss.leach@xtra.co.nz CENTRAL FILE Mr A. Walton Science & Research Unit Department of Conservation P.O. Box 10-420 WELLINGTON Phone (04) 471-0726 Fax (04) 471-3279 E-mail twalton@doc.govt.nz SITE RECORDING CO-ORDINATOR Ms S. Ross Auckland Regional Council Private Bag 92012 AUCKLAND Phone (09) 379-4420 Fax (09) 366-2155 N.Z. ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION Secretary N.Z. Archaeological Association P.O. Box 6337 Dunedin North

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

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GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Marketing Co-ordinator Marketing & Membership Assistant

Office Assistant

Advertising Co-ordinator

Lesley Brice Theresa Taylor

Talava Sene

Jolene Molloy

Executive Assistant

Sandra Patton

Information Services Adviser Customer Services Adviser Payroll Adviser Accounts Adviser Legal Adviser Marketing & Communications Manager

Senior Heritage Policy Analyst National Business Manager

Peter Richardson Kevin Lampen-Smith

Elaine Marland Michelle Smith Clare Garnham Rachael Mapp Claire Heather Paul Leslie

Chief Executive

Bill Tramposch

Heritage Policy Analyst

(Wellington)

NATIONAL OFFICE

Elizabeth Cox

Position

Name

35

Co-ordination of Marketing & Membership. Membership processing and other marketing duties Provides admin support for National Business Team. Co-ordinates advertising for Trust magazine

Provides strategic leadership & direction to the Board Develops heritage policy Delivery of business services at a strategic level Personal Assistant to CE, corporate services to senior management & Board, basic human resources. Assists Senior Heritage Policy Analyst in policy development & project co-ordinator for register upgrade project. Information requests, library, files, register Reception and liaison role for the Trust Payroll, accounts receivable, HR, insurance Accounts payable Provide legal advice and advocacy Facilitates revenue generation and marketing opportunities

Responsibilities

04) 494-8034

04) 470-8061

tsene@historic.org.nz jmolloy@historic.org.nz

04) 470-8054 04) 470-8058

lbrice@historic.org.nz ttaylor@historic.org.nz

04) 470-8056 04) 4724-341 04) 470-8052 04) 494-8037 04) 494-8041 04) 470-8051

emarland@historic.org.nz msmith@historic.org.nz cgarnham@historic.org.nz rmapp@historic.org.nz cheather@historic.org.nz pleslie@historic.org.nz

04) 470-8050

spatton@historic.org.nz

04) 470-8059

04) 494-8033 04) 494-8032

prichard@historic.org.nz. klampensmith@historic.org.nz

ecox@historic.org.nz

04) 494-8030

Phone No

btramposch@historic.org.nz

Email

NZHPT STAFF DIRECTORY AS AT 20 NOVEMBER 2001

Appendix 4 – Historic Places Trust Contacts

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Regional Archaeologist Central

Heritage Researcher

(Auckland)

Northern Regional Manager Auckland Area Co-ordinator

Heritage Adviser , Planning & Architecture. Heritage Adviser Registration & cultural

Helen McCracken

Northern Region Office

Sherry Reynolds David Reynolds

Richard Bollard

Heritage Adviser

Stuart Arden

Karen Greig

Central Regional Manager Central Area Co-ordinator

Viv Rickard David Watt

Heritage Adviser

(Wellington)

Central Region Office

Greg Mason

Senior Maori Heritage Policy Analyst Maori Heritage Adviser

Rei Kohere Dean Whiting

Te Kenehi Teira Kaihautu Dr Rick McGovern-Wilson Senior Archaeologist

Maori Heritage Division (Wellington)

36 Manages Northern region offices. Liaises with branches, TLAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages Auckland properties. Advice on heritage issues in Auckland, liaison with owners and developers. Advice on Maori heritage issues in Auckland, liaison with owners and developers.

To update & research all central region listings on register

Manages Central Region Office Liaises with branches, TLAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages Central Region properties. Advice on heritage issues in Central Region, liaison with owners and developers. Advice on heritage issues in Central Region, liaison with owners and developers. Deals with Central region archaeological enquiries.

Manages Maori Heritage Division In charge of archaeological enquiries, processes archaeological applications for authorities to modify sites.

09) 307-1490 09) 307-5923

acoffin@historic.org.nz

09) 307-3465 09) 307-1538

04) 470-8062

04) 494-8038

rbollard@historic.org.nz

sreynolds@historic.org.nz dreynolds@historic.org.nz

hmccracken@historic.org.nz

kgreig@historic.org.nz

04) 470-8053

04) 494-8039

sarden@historic.org.nz gmason@historic.org.nz

04) 494-8035 04) 494-8036

04) 494-8031 04) 494-8043

04) 494-8042 04) 470-8055

vrickard@historic.org.nz. dwatt@historic.org.nz

rkohere@historic.org.nz dwhiting@historic.org.nz

teira@historic.org.nz. rmcgwilson@historic.org.nz

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


Auckland/Northland Regional Archaeologist Heritage Researcher

Manager, Alberton, Ewelme & Highwic OfďŹ ce Assistant

Stuart Bedford

Marilyn Brons

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Auckland Heritage Advisers Mobile Phone

Nikki Hutchings

Martin Jones

Heritage Adviser (Education & Advocacy)

Aranne Donald

Advice on heritage issues with emphasis on education and advocacy in Northern Region. Deals with Auckland/Northland region archaeological enquiries. To update and Research all northern region listings on register. Manages Alberton, Ewelme Cottage and Highwic Assists other staff in the Northern Region OfďŹ ce. infonorthern@historic.org.nz

mbrons@historic.org.nz

mjones@historic.org.nz

sbedford@historic.org.nz

adonald@historic.org.nz

025 274-4217

09) 307-8896

09) 307-3654

09) 307-8841

09) 307-0413

09) 307-8841

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

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GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

NorthlandArea Co-ordinator

Heritage Adviser Kerikeri Mission Station Maori Heritage Adviser, Te Tai Tokerau

Stuart Park

Fergus Clunie

38

Heritage Adviser

Nicola Jackson

Chris Jacomb Melanie Lovell-Smith

Southern Archaeologist Heritage Researcher

Southern Regional Manager Area Co-ordinator

Paul Thompson

Pam Wilson

(Christchurch)

Lower Northern region Area Co-ordinator Regional Archaeologist Waikato/ Thames/Coromandel/BoP/Gisborne Maori Heritage Adviser Lower Northern Region

Southern Regional Office

Sonia Anderson

Dr Rachel Darmody

Gail Henry

Lower Northern Region (Tauranga) Office

Atareiria Heihei

(Kerikeri)

Northland regional Office

Liaises with branches, LTAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages Canterbury/West Coast area properties, resource consents – Christchurch. Advice on heritage issues (planning), resource consents West Coast, Kaikoura, Canterbury (excluding Christchurch) Deals with archaeological enquiries. To update & research all Southern Region listings on Register.

Manages Southern Region Office.

Liaises with branches; TLAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages lower northern properties. Deals with regional archaeological enquiries.

Liaises with iwi/hapu, TLAs, advice on Maori heritage issues.

cjacomb@historic.org.nz mlovellsmith@historic.org.nz

njackson@historic.org.nz

pwilson@historic.org.nz

03) 379-3251 03) 3792965

03) 377-9241

03) 365-2897

03) 377-3968

07) 578-1281

sanderson@historic.org.nz

pthompson@historic.org.nz.

07) 578-1229

07) 578-1219

09) 407-3453

09) 407-9236

09) 407-4443

rdarmody@historic.org.nz

ghenry@historic.org.nz

aheihei@historic.org.nz.

Point of contact for Trust activities in Northland spark@historic.org.nz –liaises with branch, TLAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages Northland properties. Manages Kerikeri Mission Station kkmission@historic.org.nz

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

May 2004


(Dunedin)

Area Co-ordinator

Heritage Adviser (4 days)

Heritage Adviser (4 days)

Rebecca Reid

Janet Stephenson

Guy Williams

Heritage Adviser – Architecture & Conservation Heritage Adviser – Marketing & Media

Southern Regional Office

Jennie Hamilton

Jim Espie

Liaises with branches, LTAs, iwi/hapu, general public, manages Otago/Southland area properties. Advice on heritage issues (planning) in Otago/ Southland Region, resource consents, liaison with owners and developers. Advice on heritage issues (architecture) in Otago/Southland area, resource consents, liaison with owners and developers.

Deals with architecture & conservation enquiries in the Southern region. Deals with marketing & media in the Southern region.

GMP LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

gwilliams@historic.org.nz

jstephenson@historic.org.nz.

rreid@historic.org.nz.

jhamilton@historic.org.nz.

jespie@historic.org.nz

03) 477-9871

03) 477-9871

03) 477-9871

03) 374-2433

03)377-3996

APPENDIX TWO LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

SUSTAINABLE LANDOWNERS GROUP HEALTH AND SAFETY Appendix 3

This book explains the Occupational Safety and Healthy Policy of.................................. and the obligations of all people working in any operation where.................................... is the principal, for the period...........................


APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

TABLE OF CONTENTS POLICY ............................................................................................................................3 objective ...........................................................................................................................3 policy ................................................................................................................................4 rationale ............................................................................................................................4 goals .................................................................................................................................4 procedures ........................................................................................................................4 for supervising contractors ...............................................................................................4 for supervising employees ................................................................................................5 RULES ..............................................................................................................................5 Rule 1. Engagement of Contractors and Employers ........................................................5 Engagement of Contractors ..............................................................................................5 Engagement of New Employees ......................................................................................6 Rule 2. Rule 3. Rule 4. Rule 5. Rule 6.

Hazard IdentiďŹ cation ...........................................................................................6 Health and Safety workplace inspections ...........................................................6 Safety Meetings ..................................................................................................6 Accident reporting and investigation ...................................................................6 Training Policy .....................................................................................................7

Rule 7. Appropriate clothing ............................................................................................7 Rule 8. Communications .................................................................................................8 Rule 9. Safe driving and seat belts ..................................................................................8 Rule 10. Personal health ...................................................................................................8 Rule 11. Housekeeping .....................................................................................................8 Rule 12.Chemical Handling ..............................................................................................9 Rule 13. Working alone in the forest............................................................................... 9 Rule 14. Firearms in the forest........................................................................................ 9 Rule 15. Emergency procedures...................................................................................... 9 FIRE Accident - Minor............................................................................................................... 10 Accident - Serious Harm.................................................................................................. 10 Accidnet - Facility............................................................................................................. 10 INDIVIDUAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESPONSIBILITIES........................................... 11 SLG GROUP MEMBER:.................................................................................................. 11 ALL EMPLOYEES:........................................................................................................... 11 CONTRACTORS..............................................................................................................12

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

POLICY

• To promote sound Health and Safety practices and working conditions for all employees and contractors.

OBJECTIVE

To eliminate personal injury and damage to property.

Signed:

______________________________________

GMP HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

POLICY To promote sound Health and Safety practices and working conditions for all employees and contractors. Rationale Reducing accidents and minimising loss is vital for the success of any business. The benefits include: •

Reduced personal suffering.

Reduced equipment down time and material losses.

Reduction in associated lost time and payouts.

Recognition within the industry and internationally.

Improved business performance.

GOALS 1. Will promote safe practices by setting rules to encourage these. Measure: The achievement of this goal will be measured by having rules in place, based on relevant industry standards, i.e. Codes of Practice, and having a means of monitoring compliance. 2. Will promote safe practices by training all employees and encouraging contractors to train their employees. Measure: Progress towards achieving this goal will be measured by the maintenance of an employee training register which records the training history for each employee, and a future training programme for each employee. Training is to be based on relevant industry standards, i.e. FIRS modules.

PROCEDURES For supervising contractors 1. Induction – see Rule 1 2. Hazard ID – see Rule 2 3. Work place inspections – see Rule 3 4. Safety audits – see Rule 3 5. H & S meetings – see Rule 4 6. Accident/incident reporting – see Rule 5 7. Training – see Rule 6 8. Personal health - se Rule 10 9. Chemicals - see Rule 12

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

For supervising employees 1. Induction – see Rule 1 2. H & S meetings – see Rule 4 3. Accident/incident reporting – see Rule 5 4. Training – see Rule 6 5. Driving - see Rule 9 6. Personal health - see Rule 10 7. Chemicals - se Rule 12

RULES All employees employed and all contractors engaged by______________________, have individual Responsibilities relating to safety and health management as outlined in this document. Rules relating to these Responsibilities are as follows: Rule 1.

ENGAGEMENT OF CONTRACTORS AND EMPLOYEES • It is intended that all new contractors and employees undergo an induction prior to commencing work. It is the responsibility of ________________________ to ensure all new contractors and employees are inducted into the Health and Safety Policy and its requirements.

Engagement of Contractors ______________________ has a responsibility for the safety and health of contractors and their employees when they are carrying out work they have been engaged to do for __________________ _____. Any Manager or Supervisor with responsibility for engaging contractors should take the following steps as a minimum: 1.

Ensure that the Contractor and their employees have the skill, knowledge and experience, i.e. FIRS modules, to carry out the required task(s) safely, including relevant registrations.

2.

Require that work be carried out to the appropriate standard (e.g. relevant Forest Industry Standards Acts, Regulations and Codes of Practice.) This is best performed by an audit of work practices as soon as possible after work commences.

3.

Establish that the Contractor provides the correct personal equipment and it.

4.

Clearly outline the work to be carried out.

5.

Inform the Contractor of any rules applicable to a work site.

6.

Inform the Contractor of any on-site hazards that may be encountered.

7.

Confirm the above points (1-6) in writing to the Contractor.

8.

Obtain a copy of the Contractor’s Safety and Health Plan. If such a plan does not exist, or is inadequate, insist on the Contractor having such a document produced as soon as practicable. All Safety and Health Plans will be referred to Occupational Health and Safety to find out if they are adequate.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

Engagement of New Employees The induction of new employees will take those persons through this Health and Safety Plan and alert them to those parts of the Plan particularly relevant to their job description Where special training is needed (by training needs analysis), it will be provided. Rule 2.

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION.

1. A hazard register shall be developed and maintained for employees, including field work and official vehicle hazards. 2. In addition to the hazards already identified and recorded for the various operations, a systematic hazard identification process shall be implemented prior to the commencement of any operation on a new site. Any new hazard identified will be subjected to the eliminating, isolating and minimising process (see form appended), and added to the record of hazards for that particular operation. Rule 3.

HEALTH AND SAFETY WORKPLACE INSPECTIONS.

1. All areas of the workplace will be covered, and the hazard identification form contains a checklist of items and areas to be inspected. 2. Regular Health and Safety inspections of the workplace environment will be carried out. Designated employees will ensure that specific monthly Health and Safety inspections of operations/areas under their control are carried out. 3. Records of each inspection and all corrective actions taken will be kept on file for a minimum period of two years. 4. Employees will be encouraged to report hazards on an ongoing basis rather than wait for the monthly inspections so that immediate action can be taken. Rule 4.

SAFETY MEETINGS.

Safety will be an integral part of the agenda of any employee or management meeting held. From time to time, work place meetings will be held, or a newsletter to employees sent out, to discuss matters purely related to safety and health topics, accident alerts, or general information. Rule 5.

ACCIDENT REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION.

If an accident or near miss incident has occurred, the following accident reporting and investigation procedure shall be followed: 1.

In the event of a serious harm accident, or serious property damage, secure the accident area until scene clearance is given by Occupational Safety and Health. Do not touch anything unless you need to make the area safe. Notify Occupational Safety and Health as soon as possible by phone of events resulting in serious harm to employees. Advise the __________________ of a serious harm accident, or serious property damage immediately. The person in charge will investigate the accident scene, and Occupational Safety and Health (Occupational Safety and Health) may also wish to conduct an investigation.

2.

For all other accidents or near misses, notify the __________________ within 24 hours. This person is required to investigate and report on all accidents or near misses.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

3.

Provide Occupational Safety and Health with a written report (on the prescribed form) of the circumstances within seven days of the event’s occurrences

4.

When events do not result in serious harm, complete your own investigation and take whatever steps are needed to eliminate, isolate, or minimise any significant hazard. Having done this, then proceed to fill out the appropriate sections in your accident report.

5.

Maintain an Occupational Safety and Health approved accident/incident register.

6.

If an injury is suffered, obtain a medical certificate for all time off and a clearance before recommencing work.

Accidents or near-miss incidents, which are to be reported to _______________, include those that involve or could have involved: • • • •

Personal injury Vehicle accidents Damage to property or equipment Accidents to visitors or the general public.

The definition of a serious harm accident which must be reported to Occupational Safety and Health is as set out in the First Schedule of the Health and Safety in Employment Act, 1992. In brief this includes: • •

any fatality; or any injury or work-related illness which results in the person receiving attention from a registered medical practitioner, accident or emergency clinic, or being admitted to hospital; or any injury or work-related illness of a significantly serious nature which temporarily disables the person and prevents them from carrying out their normal duties.

• Rule 6.

TRAINING POLICY

It is ____________________ policy to ensure that all its employees, contractors and contractors’ employees are adequately trained for the tasks required of them. This will involve continuous on-job training by recognised forest industry trainers and/or supervisors. Training needs will be determined by training needs analysis and regular safety inspections. The training of Contractors’ employees will be the responsibility of the Contractor. _________________ __ may assist the contractor with any training needs. ___________________ will maintain a training register for its own employees and a record of training provided to Contractors. Employees will be encouraged to attend workshops on safety and health issues and the identification, assessment and control of workplace hazards. Rule 7. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

The employer shall provide or make provision for all appropriate safety clothing, safety footwear, and personal protective equipment to protect employees from harm due to any hazard in the workplace, and ensure it is used correctly. Clothing/equipment shall be as comfortable as practically possible and allow free movement. In other words, safety clothing should never become a hazard in itself. Clothing and equipment shall be kept clean and properly maintained. Safety footwear shall be used while visiting forests. All persons entering or working in all forest operations shall wear high visibility clothing, appropriate safety footwear, and safety helmets. Ear, eye, leg and foot protective clothing or equipment shall be worn when using chainsaws or when required by the Health and Safety rules of the property owner.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

Rule 8.

COMMUNICATIONS.

Where an employee is working away from other employees, his/her whereabouts are to be made known to at least one other employee. All employees shall carry with them a mobile phone and/or radio for communications. All employees shall check their voice mail messages as soon as they are within range. Rule 9.

SAFE DRIVING AND SEAT BELTS.

All employees shall wear fastened safety belts at all times in a moving vehicle unless engaged in night shooting. Lights shall be on when vehicles are in forest situations. All employees shall comply with road rules at all times. Rule 10. 1.

PERSONAL HEALTH.

Working hours shall be arranged so as to provide adequate opportunity for rest periods, which shall include: Short breaks during work hours Sufficient breaks for meals Daily or nightly rest

2.

All employees shall have access to a first aid kit at all times. The employer will provide first aid kits to be carried in all vehicles and to be kept in all office locations. Field employees will be encouraged to have current first aid certificates.

3.

The employer shall ensure employees have medical assessments (with their informed consent - Occupational Safety and Health have a sample consent form), to monitor any effects from exposure to known health hazards associated with their work. In particular, all employees will be encouraged to undergo the following tests on commencement of employment, and thereafter on a regular basis: Hearing tests – minimum once every 1 year (from the Noise Management COP) Eye tests – minimum once every 2 years Cholesterol tests – minimum once every 3 years Blood pressure tests – minimum once every 2 years A follow-up procedure needs to be put in place to address any identified problems.

5.

Employees will be encouraged to advise management of any medical condition that could lead to accidents or endanger the incumbent or their colleagues.

Rule 11.

HOUSEKEEPING.

Housekeeping, or maintaining an efficient working environment is an important part of office/work area safety. Housekeeping problems include blocked or partially blocked fire exits, corridors and passageways used for storage of boxes or papers, “empty” offices used as rubbish disposal areas thereby creating potential fire hazards, and most commonly, loose or trailing electric or telephone connections which create a tripping hazard.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

All employees must ensure that housekeeping is of a high standard, and that it is regularly checked and

problems immediately rectified. Rule 12.

CHEMICAL HANDLING

Education It is mandatory that employees, contractors, and contractors’ employees handling chemicals shall have attended a course or courses on the safe handling of chemicals. Storage All chemicals should be stored in locked premises. Preference should be given to storing chemicals in dedicated chemical stores. In the absence of such depots, chemicals shall be stored in general storage areas, provided the area is being secured by lock and key. Data Sheets Data sheets are to be obtained from the manufacturer or distributor of any chemical used and/or kept in storage. These data sheets must be given to all contractors who are asked to apply the chemicals. Copies shall be kept at work sites where the chemical is being stored. Spillage In order to deal with possible spillage in the storage area, at least one “spill kit” shall be available at each storage site. Mixing of chemicals with water or other carriers must be done well away from streams or channels that could lead to the contamination of waterways if spillage occurs. Appropriate personal protective equipment shall be used during mixing. Safe Disposal of Chemical The safest method of disposal is to use the chemical in accordance with the manufacturers’ directions. In the event there is surplus chemical which must be disposed of, it should be spread over as large an area as possible, avoiding any situation where it might be washed into waterways, or contaminate ground water systems. In the event of any doubt about the safety of the proposed method of disposal, seek advice from the distributor. Rule 13.

WORKING ALONE IN THE FOREST

No person shall work alone in a forest unless all practical steps have been taken to ensure that they can get help in an emergency. Please refer also to Rule 8. Rule 14.

FIREARMS IN THE FOREST

No firearms will be permitted in a forest unless a permit has been issued for its use outside normal working hours of 7.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. This applies to all employees, contractors, and their employees. All people using firearms shall have the appropriate licences. Firearms and ammunition shall be stored and transported as required by legislation. Rule 15.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

FIRE In the event of a fire being started accidentally: 1. Attempt to extinguish by whatever means is available to you. The employer will provide fire extinguishers on all vehicles and in all offices. Employees will be trained in the use of fire extinguishers. 2. In the event that the fire is obviously too large for you to deal with, call 111 and ask for FIRE for assistance. 3. Advise your immediate supervisor as soon as the 111 call has been made. 4. Keep a diary of events, especially accurate times of each event. GMP HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

5. Liaise fully with the Fire Boss, and offer any assistance that you may be able to muster. 6. Report all fires as soon as possible to the landowner, the forest owner and the insurance company. 7. Provide a written report on the fire to ___________________ within five days. ACCIDENT - Minor In the event of a minor accident: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ensure that any person requiring first aid is treated. Ensure that the site is cleaned up and left in a non-hazardous state. Make an assessment of the damage done and the cause of the accident. Report the accident to your supervisor. Provide a written accident report to _______________________ within 24 hours.

ACCIDENT - Serious Harm In the event of being first on the scene after a serious harm accident: 1. Ensure the site is safe and determine the number of injured and assistance required. 2. Seek medical assistance immediately for the injured party by ringing 111 and asking for AMBULANCE, or by calling a doctor. 3. Take whatever steps are safe and practical to ease the injured, to stop any bleeding, or to free any air passage for breathing. 4. Ensure that the injured party and the site are safe from subsequent risk of accident. 5. Secure the site to ensure that nothing is moved before an inspection can be made. 6. Advise supervisor and local Occupational Health and Safety inspector immediately. 7. Provide an accident report to _______________________ within 24 hours. 8. Assist with any accident investigation that may be carried out. 9. If an employee was seriously harmed, send in the prescribed form to Occupational Safety and Health within seven days from the event’s occurrence. ACCIDENT - Fatality In the event of being first on the scene after a fatality: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Call 111 and ask for POLICE. Secure the site to ensure than nothing is moved. Ensure that the site is safe from subsequent risk of accident. Advise supervisor and local Occupational Safety and Health inspector immediately. Assist the Police as they may require. Assist with any accident investigation that may be carried out. Send in the prescribed form to Occupational Safety and Health within seven days from the event’s occurrence.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

INDIVIDUAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESPONSIBILITIES SLG GROUP MEMBER: _________________________ Specific Health and Safety Responsibilities Responsible for ensuring _____________________ has an appropriate Health and Safety procedure at all places of work. Duties: •

Understand the legislative requirements for Health and Safety in the place of work.

Develop the Health and Safety policy and procedures.

Assign Health and Safety responsibility to specific employees.

Involve employees in the development of the Health and Safety policy and procedures.

Make sure that all employees and contractors understand___________________ approach to Health and Safety and are aware of their responsibilities.

Promote training of employees to make sure that they are able to perform their work as safely as practicable.

Ensure that a Health and Safety check programme is established and maintained at the place of work.

Make sure that the person assigned to a task has the appropriate skill and experience.

Make sure that Contractors have access to, and use of, the safety equipment and protective clothing for the task.

Make sure that all substances on the work-site are clearly labelled and correctly stored. Ensure chemical data sheets are available where chemical is being used.

Make sure that there is sufficient information on-site in respect to every substance used or stored, which covers:How to use the substance. The hazards in using the substance. What protective clothing, equipment or safety practice is required when handling the substance.

Make sure all Contractors who handle or use any substance are aware of its hazards and the precautions that are to be taken.

ALL EMPLOYEES 1.

Observe all Health and Safety rules and apply the principles of accident prevention in day-to-day duties.

2.

Report any job-related injury, illness or property damage to the Supervisor and seek treatment promptly.

3.

Report hazardous conditions (unsafe equipment, floors, material) and unsafe acts to the Supervisor or Health and Safety representative promptly.

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APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

4.

Observe all hazard warning and no smoking signs.

5.

Keep aisles, walkways and working areas clear of slipping/tripping hazards.

6.

Know the location of fire/safety exits and evacuation procedures.

7.

Keep all emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire alarms, fire hoses, exit doors and stairways clear of obstacles.

8. Not report to work under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs. 9.

Refrain from fighting, horseplay, or distracting fellow employees.

10. In the event of an emergency remain in own work area unless instructed otherwise. 11. Operate only the equipment for which authorised and properly trained. Observe safe operating procedures for this equipment. 12. Follow proper lifting procedures at all times. 13. Use seat belts at all times when operating a vehicle except in night shooting operations. 14. Be alert to see that all guards and other protective devices are in their proper places prior to operating equipment. 15. Actively support and participate in the efforts to provide a Health and Safety programme. 16. Use all personal protective equipment in the proper manner and at proper times. CONTRACTORS 1.

The Contractor shall be required to provide a copy of their occupational Health and Safety plan.

2.

The Contractor will nominate a person who will be responsible and accountable for occupational Health and Safety.

3.

The Contractor must be able to prove that all employees required to carry out any work under the contract have been adequately trained, i.e. FIRS modules or have adequate knowledge and experience for the kind of work, plant or substance they may be required to do or use.

4.

The Contractor will be responsible for carrying out their own work place monthly Health and Safety inspections and filing copies of these promptly with ______________________.

5.

________________________shall have the right to inspect the Contractor’s provision for occupation Health and Safety, and environmental protection provisions.

6.

The Contractor shall comply with relevant legislation.

7.

________________________shall ask the Contractor to stop work if the Contractor does not comply with 4 and 5 above.

8.

The Contractor shall provide first aid facilities.

9.

Where relevant, the contractor’s emergency plans shall be to the standards required.

10. The Contractor shall report immediately all incidents/accidents including hazardous/toxic substances and trade wastes, spills or discharges to _____________. Failure to do so may result in an investigation and/or suspension of the Contractor’s work. The Contractor shall verbally report GMP HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

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May 2004


APPENDIX THREE HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

accidents that result in serious harm to the Department of Labour as soon as possible. 11. The Contractor will be responsible for providing safety equipment to an approved New Zealand standard, or its equivalent, to his/her own employees, and ensure that this equipment is used, maintained and worn as required. 12. Where specialist equipment has to used (e.g. breathing apparatus), the Contractor will provide proof that relevant training has been given in its correct use. 13. The Contractor has a duty to protect the public from harm at all times. 14. _________________________________shall provide the Contractor with copies of the relevant _________________________ policies, procedures and rules that the Contractor shall comply with. 15. The Contractor shall ensure their employees are familiar with and understand the policies, procedures and rules of ______________________. _________________________ Management shall ensure Contractors are meeting their obligations by: 1.

Regularly visiting and reviewing site operations.

2.

Providing verbal and written feedback to Contractors on their procedures and areas for improvement.

3.

Requiring Contractors to make any appropriate changes to work procedures within certain time frames and informing the Contractor of those time frames.

4.

Suspending activities of the Contractor and investigating accidents/incidents or activities as appropriate.

5.

Requiring records of training and other on-the-job instruction be communicated from the Contractor to management.

GMP HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

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May 2004


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