Imported Food Control Order 2019

1.1 Background ................... ...... .......................... .......................... ................... ..................... ...... .......... 1 1. 2 Purpose ......................... ...... ................................ .............. ...... .......... .............................. ................ 2

1.3 Code application .. .. ......... ................ ..... ... ............. ..... ............ .. ............ ..... ....... ...... ........ .................. 2

1.4 Standards .. .... ... .... .. ........... ...... .. ..... .. .... .. ........... ....... .. ...... ..... .............. ..... ................ ..... ............ .. .... 2

1.5 Code format .. ... .... .. ... .......... ...... ..... .. ....... .. .... .... ............... ... ..... ................ ................ ............. .......... 2

1.6 Code management responsibilities .. ....... .... ...... ........ ........ .. .... ............ ................. ........... ................ 3

1.6.1 General ..... .. ...... .............. .................... ...... .... ........ .............. .................. .. ............ ...... ...... ........ .... 3

1.6.2 Preparation .. .... .. ....... ...... .......... ... ....... ...... .... ... ..... ....... ..... .. ...................... ........... ... ........... .... .... 3

1.6.3 Documentation .. .............. .......... .... .... .. .... .............. ...... ...... .. .......... .... ............ .... ... ..... ...... ........ .... 3

1.6.4 Implementation ............. ........ .... .... ...... ........... ....... ........ ....... .. .. ..... .... ............... ......... .............. .... 3

1.6.5 Training and competency ......................... ...... ...... ........ ...... .......................... ............ .................. 3

1.6.6 Communication ... ..... .............. .............. .... .... .... ...... ........ ............ ...... ... .. ............... ......... 3

1.6.7 Compliance ....... ........ ...... ................................ ........... ......................................... ...................... 3

1.6.8 Code review ...... .............. ...... ............ .. ...... ...... ...... .............................. ..................... ...... ........... 3 1. 7 Definitions and acronyms .. .. ................. ... .... ...... .. ...... ...... ........ .................. ... ..... .... ........ ............ ...... 3 2. Principles of environmental care and cultural heritage protection .. .. .......... ........ ............ ....... .... ......... ...... 4

2.1 Objective ... .... .... .... ............ ............. .. ..... ............ ... .... .. ..... ...... ................... ... ............. ... ................ .... 4

2.2 Principles .. .... ... .... .. ................... ..... .. .. .. .. ....... .... ....... .. ....... .. ..................... ... .... ................ .......... .. .... 4

2.3 Policy .. .......... .................... .. .... .................. .... .... ... .... .. ... .... ...... ............. ....... .. .... .... ... .......... ....... ... ... 4

2.3.1 Risk management ............................... ............................................... .............. ................. .......... 4

2.3.2 Protection of biodiversity ..................... ...... .................... ...... .................................. ...... ................ 4

2.3.4 This section intentionally removed from the Code ............................................................ .......... 5

2.3.5 Cultural heritage ................... ........................................ .............. ....... .. ... ...... .................... .......... 6 3. Worker and public safety ...... .. .... ........ ...... ...... ... ........... .................... .... ........ ...... .... ............... .... ............... 7 4. Personnel tra ining and competency .... ... ... .. .................. .... .. ....... .... ...................... .... ... ... ... ... ................ .... 8

4.1 Objective ... .... .... .... ............ ....... .. .... .. ......... ........... .... ... .......... .......... .... ........................ ...... .......... .... 8

4.2 Principles .. .... .... ... .. ........... ....... .. .... .. ... ... ........... ... .... .. ........... ................... ......... .... ... ................. .. .... 8

4.2.1 Training and Competency .............. .... .......... ... .............. ................ .............. ..... ... ........................ 8

4.2.2 Competency standards ................................................... .......................... ... ........... ... .... ............. 8

4.3 Policy ................ ................................................................................................... .. ... ...................... 8

4.3.1 Competency based training and certification ................................................... .... ....................... 8 5. Harvesting planning .... ... .. .... .. ..... ........ ..... .. ... .... .... ......... ................. .. .... .... .... ..... ................................. ...... 9

5.1 Objective ... .... .... .... .... ........ ........ .... ... ..... ............... .... .. ....... .... .......................... .... ..... ................... .. .. 9

5.2 Principles ...... .... ... .. ................. .. ..... .. .. .... .................. .. ...... ... ................ ......... ... ......... .................... ... 9

5.2.1 Forest planning framework .. ... ... .. .. .... ......... ......... ... ........ ............ ............. ..................... .......... .... 9

5.2.2 Forest protection framework ............... .............. .................. .................................. ...... ...... .......... 9

5.3 Policy .......................... ............................ ........................ .................. ................... .... ....................... 9

5.3.1 This section intentionally removed from the Code ...................................................................... 9

5.3.2 Timber harvesting areas on the QPWS forest estate ................... ............................................ 10

5.3.3 This section intentionally removed from the Code ...... .. .... .. .... ......... .... .... ........ .... ... ...... .......... .. 1O

5.3.5 Silvicultural regimes ...... .. ..... .. ............. ...... .... ... ..... ................... .. ....... .... ............ ....... .. ........... .... 10

5.3.6 Harvesting practices ..... .. ..... .. .......... .. .................. .. ........... ...... .... ... .. ... ... ... ........ ... ....... .... .. .... .... 1O

5.3.7 Forest regeneration .. .... ...... ... ...... ............. ... ......... .... .... ................ ... ..... .... ........ ... .... .. .. ..... .. ...... 10

5.3.8 Timber harvesting operations planning ................. ............ .... .. .. .... ... ..... ................... ... ... ........... 10

5.3.9 Documentation and accountability ....................... .................. ... ............ .......................... ...... .. 10 6. Operational access ............ ...... ........ .................... ............ ...... ............ .. .......... ........ .......................... .......... 11

6.1 Objective ..................... ........ ................. ................. .............. .... ........ ................ ..... ..... .... ........ ........ 11

6.2 Principles .................... ........ .................................. ........................................................................ 11

6.2.1 Management framework ............... ... ..... ........ ... .... .. ....... ................. .. ..... .. .. .... .... ............... ..... .. .. 11

6.2.2 Access sta ndards and density ... .. ........ ..... .... ... ..... ...... .. .. ......... ....... ..... ................ ............. .... .... 11

6.2.3 Forest protection framework ...... .. .... .. ........... ........ ...... .... ...... .. .... ..... .... ... ............. ..... .... ........ .. .. 11

6.2.4 This section intentionally removed from the Code ....... ..... .. ............ ....... .. ............ ..... ............ .... 11

6.3 Policy .. .... .. .... ........ ............ .. ............ ...... ............ ... ..... .... .......... ............. ..... .. .... ...... ........ ...... ...... ... . 11

6.3.1 Road and track construction and maintenance ........... ... .............. ..... ... .. ...... .... ........ ............ .... 11

6.3.2 Joint road management planning ....... ...... ...... ...... ............ .. .................... .......................... ...... .. 11

6.3.3 This section intentionally removed from the Code ............ .. ................... .... .......... ............. ........ 11

6.3.4 Existing infrastructure ........ ................ ...... .... ....... ..... ..................... ............ .................. .. 11

6.3.5 Temporary access . ...... .. .......... .. ........ ... .............................................. ...... ............. .. 11 iv

6.3.6 Road use and restrictions .. ... ............... ..................... ... ...... ......... ............ ... .. ................. ....... ... .. 11 7. Harvesting management ......................................... .. .. ........ .......... .... .......... .............. ................ ........ ........ 13

7.1 Objective ... ... ............. .................... ............... .......... ....... ...... ... ......... ......... .... .. ....... ... .. ............... .. .. 13

7.2 Principles .. ... ....... ... ... .............. .. .... ... ... ... ...... ..... ... .. ....... ... .... .. .................. .... .. ....... ... .. .... ............ ... 13

7.2.1 Environmental management framework ... ... .... .. ....... .... ..... ..... ................. .... ................. ... ......... 13

7.3 Policy ... .. ... ... ........ ..... ........ .. ... ... .... ... ............ ..... ............ ......... ........... ................................ .. ... .. ..... 13

7.3.1 Combined operations ... ... ... ....... ....... ............ ....... ..... ..... ..... ................. .......................... ..... .. .. ... 13

7.3.2 Harvesting operations .. ... ... ..... ..................... ............. .... ..... ......... .......... .... ... ........... ... ... ... .... ..... 13

7.3.3 Operators ........ ... ... ................... .... .... ................... .... ................... .... .. ... .... ... ... .......... ........ 13

7.3.4 Equipment.. ..... .. ....... ................. ... ... ..................... ... ..... .. .. ......................... ......... ........ 13

7.3.5 Progressive stabilisation ...... .... ... .......... ............. ... . ..... ................ .. .. ... .. ............ ..... ........ .. ..... .. 13

7.3.6 This section intentionally removed from the Code .... ........ .. ........ .. .. ........... .. ................. .... .... .. .. 13

7.3.7 Research and development... ... ... ... ... ............ ......... .................................. ... .................... ..... .. 13

7.3.8 Processing sites .... ... .... ......... .... ... ............. ................ .... ...... ..... ... .. .. ............. ........... ...... .... ........ 13

7.3.9 Camping sites ....... ... ............. .. .. ............................. ... .... .......... .... .. ... ............ .... .... .. ....... ..... ....... 13 7.3.1 0 Forest protection .... .. ... ... ... ................ ........ ... .. .... ... .... ................ ............ ........ ... .. ....... .... ........ 14

7.3.11 Harvesting practi ces ... ... .. ................. ... .... .. .. .. ....... .... ..... .................. ............. ... ... ... .... .... .. ... .. 14 7.3.1 2 Operational restrictions ......... ..... .. ..... ............. ....... .. .. ............. ................. ............ .................. 14 8. Forest regeneration and growth ....................... ......... .. .. ... .. ... ... ...... .... .... ....... ..... .. ............... ....... .... .. ... ...... 15

8.1 Objective ............... ........................ ..... .. ............................... ....... ......................... ............. ............. 15

8.2 Principles .......... ....................... .. ... ..... .. ..... ..................... .. .. .. ...... ......... ............ ... .............. ..... ........ 15

8.2.1 Management framework ..... ... ...... ....... ..... ................... ................ .. ..... .. .. ... ... ........ .. .... .. ..... ........ 15

8.3 Policy ...... .. .. ........... ... ......... ..... .. .... ... ......... ... ................. .............. ...... ..... .. ....................... .... .. ...... .. 15

8.3.1 Mainta ining the productivity of the QPWS forest estate ... .. .... ... ... ... ......... ........................ ........ 15

8.3.2 Silvicultural regimes ...... .. .. ..... ... ... ............. .... .. .......... .................... ........... .............. ................... 15

8.3.3 Adequacy of regeneration ............................... ... ........ .. .......... .... ... .. ... .. ....... ....... .......... ..... ........ 15 9. Compliance, prevention and correcti ve action .................... ..... .. ..... .......................... ......... ... .. ....... ..... ....... 16

9.1 Objective ............... .... .......................... ................ ... ........ .. ... ....... .... ... ... .. .. ........... ... ........ .. ............. 16

9.2 Principles .................. ............. .. ..... ........ ... ..................... .. ...... .... .. ... ................. ...... ...... ........... ....... 16

9.2.1 Code compliance .. ......... ....... .............................. ... ... .... ..... ........... ... ......... ........................ ........ 16

9.2.2 Damage .. ...... ........ .......... .......... ............ ... ........... ...... ... ..... ...... ................................ .... ...... ........ 16

9.2.3 Materi al and serious envi ronmental harm ..... ... .. ....... .... ..... ...... ... ....... .. .. .. .... ........ .. ......... .. ........ 16

9.2.4 Code effectiveness .. ..... .. .. ..... ... ... ........ ......... ... .. .... .. ..... ..... ...................... ...... ... ... .. ................... 16 Schedule 1: Timber prod ucts .... .... .. .... ............. ....... .. .......... ...... .... ..... ..... ................. ..................... .. ... ....... 17 Schedule 2: Soil assessment ............... ........... ............. ... .. ...... ...... .... .... ....... ........ .............. ... ........... ........ 18 Schedul e 3: Watercourse protection ............... ..... ............. ....... .. .. ......... .... ................... .......... .................. 22 Schedule 4: Slope exclusion zones ................. .............. .. .. ........... ......... .............. ....... ........ ......... ............. 31 Schedule 5: Instability exclusion zones .............. ........... .................. ...... ............................ .......... ...... ....... 32 Schedule 6: Nature conservation ... ... .... .. .... ........ .... ................. .... ..... ....... .. .. ............ ... ........... ..... .... ..... .. .. 33 Schedule 7: Protection of special forest values ............ ..... .. ..... ...... .... .... .... .. .. ............. ........... .......... ........ 39 Schedule 8: Forest road and track management ... .. .. .. ...... ... ... .... ..... ........... ... ......... ............. ................... 41 Schedule 9: Forest road and track drainage .... .. .... .. .......... ...... ........ .. ... .... ... ... ......... ... ..... ... .. ....... ............ 48 Schedule 1O: Timber harvesting practice ............. ......... .. .... .. ........ .. ..... ...... ... ......... ...... .. ...... ... .. ..... ........ 59 Schedule 11 : Timber product harvesting practice ...... .. .... .. ... ...... .... ..... .... .... .. ................. ........ 65 Schedule 12: Sandalwood harvesting ... ... .... ..... ................. .... ... .. ... ....... .... ... ...... ........ ... ... ......... ... .. .... .. .. 66 Schedule 13: Harvesting and regeneration silvicultu re .............. ........... ....... .............. ..... ..... ....... ........ ... 68 Schedule 14: Camping and processing sites .. ...... ... .......................... .... . ............ .............. ........... ........ 69 Schedule 15: Pests and disease management ... ... ... ... ................... ........... ... ...................... ...... .. ... ........ 70 Schedule 16: Air and noise pollution management ... ... .......... ......... ....................... ........ ......... ..... ... .. .. ... 71 Schedule 17: Waste and hazardous materials management .... ..... .. ............ ........... ....... .. .... ...... .... ........ 72 Schedul e 18: Operational restrictions .... ...... ... .. .... ................. .............. ...... .. ........... .. .... ............. .... .... .. .. 73 Appendix 1: Acronyms and abbreviations ...... .... ...... ................ ... ..... .. .... .... .. .. ........... ...... .... .. ..... ...... ... ..... 75 Appendix 2: Glossary of te rms .. .. ... ... ................... .............. ... ....................... ..... .. .. ... ............. ............ ....... 76 V Code of practice for native forest timbe r production on the QPWS forest estate 1. Introduction Defining the Code's purpose, application and Guiding principles for ESFM are: management responsibilities 1 the maintenance, protection or, where appropriate, the enhancement of biodiversity,

1.1 Background productive capacity, sustainability and hea lth The Forestry Act 1959 provides for the of forest ecosystems, soil and water reservation , management, silvicu ltural treatment resources, forest contribution to global carbon and protection of State forests and the sale of cycl es, long term , social and economic forest products on State lands, including the benefits, and natural and cultural heritage QPWS forest estate's State forests and timber values. The enhancement of biodiversity may reserves . be achieved through appropriate planning strategies. On State forests , the cardinal principle of 2 where approp ri ate, apply the precautionary management is the permanent reservation of principle for the prevention of environmental areas for the purpose of providing timber and degradation . associated products in perpetuity and protecting 3 prevention or mitigation of impacts , on-site a watershed the rein, having due regard to: and off-site, of forest management practi ces , conservation of the soil and the envi ronment; w hich are , or may be deleteri ous. benefits of permitted grazing ; and 4 protect Indigenous cultural heritage and the possibility of applying the area to ensure participation of Indigenous peoples in recreational purposes . all aspects of forested land management and planning . The State's forests are managed for multiple use The _NFPS to which Queensland is a signatory, according to the principles of ecologically sustainable forest management (ESFM) provides a framework for ecologically sustainable consistent with the NFPS. management of native forests for the broad range of commercial and non-commercial benefits and values that forests can provide to present and Multiple use management is the management of diverse forest uses and values. It covers timber future generations. It requires that management and other forest products, as well as planning and management of forests should conservation of the forest environment, water mainta in , to the maximum extent practic able, options for the full suite of forest values for catchment and soil protection, wildlife habitat, landscape, wilderness , genetic resources and present and future generations. Timber diversity, recreation , scientific study and production is one such value providing the education. Such management must be dynamic community w ith products, regional employment and does not necessarily imply fixed priorities of and economic development. use on any particular area nor, that any particular areas must simultaneously provide all products Under this policy the production of timber and and values at all times. Maintenance of these timber products is considered an appropriate and uses and values requ ires that forest management desirable forest use that can be integrated with other uses and provide benefits to the is cons istent with the principles of ESFM. community. In providing for the harvesting of ESFM must be applied to all aspects of timbe r timber products, forest management should production and all tenures to: provide for nature conservation and the protection of important forest values . • mainta in, or w here necessary, enhance ecological and evolutionary processes w ithin ESFM is given effect through a code of practice forests ; consistent with the NFPS . maintain, or where necessary , enhance the biological diversity of forests , from species to landscapes ; and optimise the net social, economic and cultura l heritage benefits derived from a mixture of forest uses, with in ecological constraints , while maintaining options for the future use. Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate

1.2 Purpose 1.4 Standards In accord with the NFPS, and as part of any The Code defines the minimum standards to be applicable forest environmental management applied to timber harvesting operations with system, the Code defi nes the principles, policies , consideration of efficiency, acceptable and practices for sustainable timber production environmenta l impact and optimal community from the QPW S forest estate and seeks to benefit. ensure that: • the forest estate is assessed and protected Code standards consider and seek to balance from loss or degradation ; and be appropriate to: • harvesting is planned to ensure that social, • the nature, scale , sensitivity and impact of nature conservation , forest values and use and its implicati ons to sustainability; the environmental needs are identified and protection of forest, environmental and social provided; values , and the natu ral or operational capability for restoration and recovery of • harvesting practices are safe, sustainable and disturbed areas ; protect the forest from damage and/or material or serious environmental harm. • operational needs for efficient production including: Corrective action will be ta ken if damage - recogn ised industry best practice; and/or material or serious environmental harm - avoidance of unnecessary penalty to good occurs ; operators ; and • the forest is able to regenerate to at least an onus to stabilise and re habilitate mainta in its productivity and biod iversity adverse impacts caused . values; and • environmental , resource management and • research and development is applied to conse rvation legislati on and other obligations improve forest management and including the requirements of the Forestry Act management practices. 1959, Nature Conservation Act 1992, , En vironmental Protection Act 1994, Aboriginal The Code supports broader forest management Cultural Heritage Act 2003, Torres Strait systems including forest: certification, planning , Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003, allocation, valuation and uti lisation systems . Queensland Heritage Act 1992, Wild Rivers Act 2005, the Environment Protection and

1.3 Code application Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, (EPBC Act), and the Strategy for the Conservation The Code applies to the harvesting of timber and Management of Queensland's W etlands . products (Schedule 1) from native forests on the QPWS forest estate , w here operations are • forest management policies such as National conducted under the Forestry Act 1959. Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable De velopment 1992, Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment 1992 and the The application of the Code is based on the National Forest Policy Statement 1992/1995. fol lowi ng principles: • forest management systems that have been • The Code is not a substitution or lessening of developed for Australia (e.g. that comply with any other standard, Code or law. The Australian Forestry Standard). • The provisions of the Code are binding on all • co mmunity interest inc luding accountabi lity to parties involved in timber production and the public , involvement in decision maki ng must be incorporated into supply agreements processes, public education and the and other contracts relati ng to native forest encou ragement of community ownership of harvesting. environmental issues. • Where strict application of the Code will be or may be unsafe, or result in damage or environmental harm, alternative practices 1.5 Code format must be used. The Code of practice is presented in two parts: Part A - Core: Incorporating policies and principles . Part B - Schedules : Incorporating operational prescriptions 2 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

1.6 Code management responsibilities • providing support to DAFF Forest Products for agreed industry tra ining;

1.6.1 General Code management is based on a continuous • providing advice in regard to interpretation improvement approach involving a cycle of of the Code and supporting documents ; and preparation , implementation, operation, audit, • providing advice or direction arising from review and revision. Code audits .

1.6.2 Preparation QPWS is responsible for Code preparation and DAFF Forest Products is responsible for must liaise w ith: addressing the requirements of permittees authori sed for timber harvesting, in relation to the • DAFF and other government agenci es to Code and ensuring Code requirements are met. define Code standards and establish roles, responsibilities, protocols and procedures for Permittees are responsible for ensuring that they, implementation ; and their employees and contractors comply with the • the timber industry and relevant community Code . groups to identify issues and expectations and to establish procedures for add ressing conflicts or concerns. 1.6.6 Communication QPWS is responsible for establishing procedures

1.6.3 Documentation for effective commun ication with interested QPWS is responsible for maintaining and groups to receive and disseminate information, supporting the Code and ensuring that the Code and to identify issues , concerns and deficiencies . is public ly accessible.

1.6.7 Compliance

1.6.4 Implementation QPWS is responsible for operational The Code must be progressively and effectively assessment, auditing and reporting on the level implemented . Responsibility for implementation of compliance with the Code by QPW S and should reflect the respective responsibilities of DAFF Forest Products . the parties concerned.

1.6.8 Code review Persons involved in administering the Code The Code must be periodically reviewed to and/or supervising operations must be aware of ensure continuing suitability, adequacy and their obligations and be competent to implement effectiveness in the light of submissions , the Code. research , best practice development, operational experience and the results of monitori ng and

1.6.5 Training and competency audits. QPWS is responsible for reviewing the QPWS and DAFF Forest Products must identify Code in consultation w ith interested groups every thei r respective competency needs, define five years or as required . Reviews must be competency standards and apply training to documented and publicly accessible. ensure that employees are competent to implement the Code (refer also 7.3.3 for operator 1.7 Definitions and acronyms training). Acronyms and abbreviations are contained in QPWS is responsible for: Appendix 1. • train ing of QPW S, DAFF Forest Products Definitions are contained in Append ix 2. and re levant government agencies in the Code; 3 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate 2. Principles of environmental care and cultural heritage protection However the followi ng appl ies: Ensuring timber production operations conform • All regional ecosystems must be managed to to the principles of environmental care and ensure that their ecolog ical integrity is protected . cultural heritage protection Ecolog ical processes, health and vitality and their ability to regenerate and evolve must be maintained.

2.1 Objective • The latest Reg ional Ecosystem numberi ng and Timber production operations must be carried out in status , issued by the Queensland Herbarium, such a way that natural and cultural values are Department of Science, Information Technology, protected. Innovation and the Arts, and any subsequent revisions, as listed in the schedules of the

2.2 Principles Vegetation Management Regulation 2000 Timber production must be planned and managed in applies accordance with the principles of environmental • Timber harvesting is not permitted in ·rainforest' care and other legislative require ments. reg ional ecosystems as defined by Queensland Herbarium.

2.3 Policy • The harvesting of 'rainforest' tree spec ies is not

2.3.1 Risk management pe rmitted unless there are no alternatives for A risk management approach sha ll be applied to all access or they present an unacceptable safety aspects of the envi ronmental management of timber risk. This restriction does not apply to natural production on State lands by adoption of a harvest hoop pine, bunya pi ne and kauri pi ne trees planning framework in order to assess occurring outside areas mapped as rainforest. envi ronmental risk and develop strategies with in the • Timber harvesting is not excl uded in any framework of the Code . reg ional ecosystem on the basis of its conservation status where the Code's

2.3.2 Protection of biodiversity prescriptions or an approved alternative is applied.

2.3.2.1 Protected Flora and Fauna - All species • Clearing assoc iated with timbe r harvesting must be protected from any adverse effects of activities must be restricted in accordance with harvesting. presc ribed limits (Refer Schedule 6.2). Note: Refer to Appendix 2 for definition of The diversity of fi ora and fauna , including their clearing under this Code . successional stages, in native forests must be maintained. The protection measures detailed in Sched ule 6 are designed to meet these requirements. The legislative basis for biodiversity protection in Queensland is the Nature Conservation Act 1992. Key elements of the legislation requ ire that protection measures must: • protect EVNT species; • protect habitat and active breeding sites ; • contri bute to the conservation of indigenous spec ies general ly; • complement the conse rvation goals of the reg ional nature reserve system; • maintain ecosystem function and essential processes; and • monitor biodiversity values and the impacts of standards. The protection measures detailed in the Species Management Profiles (SMP) are designed to meet these requ irements.

2.3.2.2 Regional ecosystem management - There is no legis lative requirement for protection of particular regional ecosystems on State forest, timber reserves and forest entitlement areas. 4 Code of practic e for nativ e forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate

2.3.2.3 Fire management - Wildfire control and 2.3.3.3 Soil protection - Timber production management burning is managed under: activities shall be reg ulated to prevent or minimise • Part 7 of the Fire and Rescue Service Act soil erosion, or deterioration of the soil 's physical , 1990- Control and Prevention of Fires; and biological or chemical properties. • Part 7 of the Forestry Act 1959 - Control and Operations must conform to the requ irements of the Prohibition of Fires on State Forests, Timber En vironmental Protection Act 1994 and Wild Rivers Rese rves and Forest Entitlement Areas . Act 2005. The environmental impacts of fi re, which includes The protection measures detailed in Schedules 2, 4, wi ldfire and burn ing in conjunction with harvesting 5 and 18 are designed to meet these requirements. for protection and/or regeneration purposes, shall be managed in accordance with the responsibilities, 2.3.3.4 Water and watercourse protection • procedures and standards detailed in the relevant Timber prod uction activities shall be reg ulated to fire management plan , pol icy and procedu res. prevent or minimise pollution of watercourses and systems. This includes planned burning in appropriate conditions to reduce the risk of hotter and more Operations must conform to the requ irements of the intense fi res which can result in uncontrolled loss of En vironmental Protection Act 1994 and the Wild carbon sequeste red in biomass. Rivers Act 2005 and, in accordance with the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009, the

2.3.2.4 Pest and disease management - management intent is to maintain surface water and Timber production activities shall be regulated to groundwate r quality. ensure all reasonable steps are taken to prevent or minimise the introduction and/or spread of pests The protection measures detailed in Schedules 3, 8, and diseases. 9, 10, 11 (and Schedules 2, 4, 5 and 18 dealing with soil) are designed to meet these req uirements. Management and control measures must conform to the requirements of the Nature Conservation Act 2.3.3.5 Air and noise protection • Timber 1992, the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route production activities shall be regu lated to prevent or Management) Act 2002, the Agricultural Chemicals minimise interference caused by smoke , dust, Distribution Control Act 1966, and relevant pest, odour, noise or light with environmental or social weed and disease strateg ies. values.

2.3.3 Protection of other elements of Operations conducted must conform to the environmental and cultural heritage requ irements of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 and the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy

2.3.3.1 Landscape and visitor use management 2008 and the Environmental Protection (Noise) - Operations must conform to the requirements of Policy 2008 and seek to avoid, amel iorate , isolate or the Forestry Act 1959 and the En vironmental restrict the source of any nuisance . Protection Act 1994. The protection measures detailed in Schedule 16 Timber production activities sha ll be regulated to are designed to meet these requirements. prevent or minimise conflicts between harvesting activities and landscape values, and recreational 2.3.4 Th is section intentiona lly removed from usage. the Code The protection measures detailed in Schedule 7 are designed to meet these requirements.

2.3.3.2 Geomorphological features - Timber prod uction activities shall be reg ulated to prevent or minimise damage to , or deterioration of, geomorphologica l fe atures. 5 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate

2.3.5 Cultural heritage Cu ltu ral heritage values (objects, places, landscapes) shall be managed with the objective of protecting those val ues where timbe r harvesting operations are conducted consistent with the Nature Conservation Act 1992, the Environmental Protection Act 1994, the Aboriginal Cultural He ritage Act 2003, the Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003, the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, the National Forest Policy Statement (1992/1 995) and any applicable cultural heritage management requirements. 6 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate 3. Worker and public safety Ensuring that the health and safety of workers and the public is protected consistent with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and any subordinate legislation . 7 Cod e of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate 4. Personnel training and competency Ensuri ng personnel are competent to perform their assigned roles and tasks

4.1 Objective Competent pe rsonnel are a fun damental pre- requisite for the achievement of ecologically sustainable forest management. To achieve Code requirements, al l persons engaged in timber production must be trained and competent to perform their assigned roles and tasks safely, effectively, effic iently and responsibly.

4.2 Principles

4.2.1 Training and Competency All persons engaged in timber production must be trained and com petent for the task(s) they perform.

4.2.2 Competency standards Certification to National com petency standards applies to relevant tasks associated with timbe r prod uction.

4.3 Pol icy

4.3.1 Competency based tra ining and certification The Code promotes the development and implementation of a system for competency-based training and certification with the aim that certification becomes a requirement for employment in relation to the environmentally relevant aspects of timber production. 8 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate 5. Harvesting planning In a regional context the conservation framework Effective planning provides a sound basis for is based on : ESFM and the management of environmental • a natu re conservation reserve system; risk • managing the rest of the forest area such

5.1 Objective that any special areas are protected and links are provided between protected areas; Timber harvesting must be well planned in order • managing timber harvesting areas in a to protect and mainta in forest values for present complementary manner to ensure species and future generations. and habitat protection; and The Code establishes a framework for detai led • encouraging sympathetic management of strategic and operational leve l harvest planning adjacent other State lands or private forests . that ensures timber harvesting activities are:

5.2.2.2 Forest values - The management of • appropriate; timber harvesting must maintain the full range of • ecologically sustainable; forest values including biological, geological, • economically and socially responsible; and landscape and cultural heritage over time. Significant forest values must be identified and • cogn isant of any relevant overarching appropriately managed. strategic land use plan ning mechanism.

5.2.2.3 Social amenity- The management of

5.2 Principles timber harvesting requires that socially sensitive

5.2.1 Forest planning framework places w ithin or adjacent to timber production Consistent w ith ESFM principles, the planning areas are to be identified and excluded from or framework wi ll ensure that: buffered from any adverse effects of timber harvesting. This may include exc lusion zones • forest resourc es are assessed, secured and around significant forest use areas and the sustainably managed in balance with protection of existing uses and use rights. community, regional employment and economic development needs;

5.2.2.4 Environmental values - Management • timber harvesting areas are identified taki ng of the forest for timber harvesting requires that account of commun ity benefit, land tenure , soil, water, air, noise and other environmental forest capability, nature conservation , other values be protected from loss or degradation. forest values, competing uses, Thi s may include special management areas or appropriateness to site , and compatibil ity exclusion zones for slope, instability, watercourse with existing uses and use rights ; protection and species management, as well as • harvesting regimes are appropriate, specification of practices for avoidance , ecologically sound , of acceptable impact and stabilisation and/or re habilitation of disturbance. mainta in or improve forest productivity;

5.3 Policy • harvesting practices are appropriate for the forests long-term productivity, efficient, safe 5.3.1 Th is section intentionally removed from and environmentally responsible; the Code • harvested forest is able to effectively regenerate and is protected to maintain or enhance fo rest productivity ; and • planning is documented and publicly accountable.

5.2.2 Forest protection framework

5.2.2.1 Nature conservation - Use of the forest for timber harvesting must ensure that nature conservation values are maintained. This will include the maintenance of ecological processes that sustain the forest and biological diversity while protecting rainforest, wilderness, old growth forests and watercourse environments consistent with legislation and relevant government policies and agreements. 9 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate

5.3.2 Timber harvesting areas on the QPWS harvesting does not conform to the requ irements forest estate of the Code . Routi ne OH Ps that are compliant Forest values and uses must take into account with the Code are not required to be submitted to community benefit, overarching land use QPWS for approval. planning decisions, the purpose of the land (as per the Forestry Act 1959), forest capability, The currency of the OHP must be maintained for nature conservation , protection of significant the full duration of the ti mber harvesting. forest values , competing uses, use being appropriate to the site and compatibi lity with Timber harvesting activities on the QPWS forest existing uses and use rights. estate w ill be subject to periodic audit by QPWS' audit program. Planning instruments will :

5.3.8.3 Special sales - QPWS encourages the • define the forest protection framework; and salvage of storm or fire damaged forest products • identify timber harvesting areas and their use and w ill expedite approval for these operations . constraints . QPWS acknow ledges that for "special sales" some Code requ irements may need to be Waste fro m ti mber harvesting must be minimised. modified .

5.3.3 Th is section intentionally removed from 5.3.8.4 Harvesting completion advice - These the Code must be submitted at the completion of harvesting operations.

5.3.4 Th is section intentionally removed from the Code 5.3.9 Documentation and accountability The planning process must be documented,

5.3.5 Silvicultural regimes recorded and made available for audit. Silvicultural reg imes are determined by State Government Forest Policies. The Code aims to provide for the protection of environmental values during harvesting activities.

5.3.6 Harvesti ng practices Operations must be capable of achievi ng the environmenta l outcomes described in the Code.

5.3.7 Forest regeneration Timber harvesting is conditional upon effective regeneration of the forest in term of species mix, stocking and site productivity (see Core section 8).

5.3.8 Timber harvesting operations planning

5.3.8.1 Advanced Harvesting Notification - DAFF Forest Products w ill provide QPWS with advance notice of planned harvesting operations.

5.3.8.2 Operational harvesting plan (OHP) - DAFF Forest Products must prepare OHPs for ti mber harvesting on all areas of the QPWS forest estate . Approval of OHPs by QPWS will only be required on an exception basis w here an aspect of 10 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate 6. Operational access

6.2.3 Forest protection framework Providing for safe, effective and Construction , use and maintena nce must identify environmentally responsible operational potential environmental th reats and: access • protect EVNT species , and the integrity of REs ;

6.1 Objective • protect significant social , cultural heritage Road and track construction, maintenance and and landscape values; use have the potential to cause localised soil • protect exclusion zones from direct or erosion and watercourse sedimentation. indirect disturbance; The Code aims lo ensure that the mainte nance of • minimise soil erosion and watercourse existing access and the construction and sedimentation ; and maintenance of new access provides for safe, • comply with the Environmental Protection Act appropriate and economic timber ha rvesting 1994 and avoid or minimise air and noise while protecting the range of forest environmental pollution and public nuisance . va lues and, in particular, minimising soil erosion and watercourse sedimentation. 6.2.4 Th is section intentionally removed from the Code .

6.2 Principles

6.2.1 Management framework 6.3 Policy Access provision and management must be 6.3.1 Road and track construction and planned to ensure : maintenance • access is warranted and appropriate to Construction and maintenance undertaken in limber harvesting and other forest connection with timber harvesting operations management uses; shall be conducted in accordance with relevant Code standards (Schedules 8 and 9). QPWS • forest values and biodiversity are protected ; acknow ledges that, in some environments, • design standards wi ll achieve the desired application of the Code standa rds may be function with safety; inappropriate and/or impracti cal. Variations to the • provision w ill be cost effective, minimise the Code requirements may be considered for loss of productive area and minimise adverse approval based on a ri sk-weighted evaluation . social or environmental impact;

6.3.2 Joint road management planning • use is controlled to maintain safety, minimise The management of permanent roads and track structural damage and/or material or serious network (construction, maintenance and usage) envi ronmental harm; included in any joint road management plan • drainage standards are maintained during (J RMP) must be consistent with the codes and on completion of harvesting operations; procedures and standards. • mainte nance is timely, effective and ongoing ; and 6.3.3 Th is section intentionally removed from the Code. • access is stabilised / rehabilitated , decommissioned and , where necessary,

6.3.4 Existing infrastructure permanently closed .. Existing infrastructure must be used wherever practical and safe.

6.2.2 Access standards and density These must be based upon:

6.3.5 Temporary access • design, engineering standards consistent Temporary access should be considered in lieu with the road's purpose and be capable of of permanent construction provided effective carrying the required traffic, vehicle drainage , decommissioning and rehabilitation is configurations and required legal loads w ith undertaken. due regard to economy and safety ; and • an appropriate network of road classes that 6.3.6 Road use and restrictions address operational ti mber harvesting Road use must be controlled to facilitate safety, requ irements and that minimises the total limit structural damage or adverse environmental impact of harvesting and roading , or impact, and protect the rig hts of other users . otherwise best se rves the overall forest management need. Access must: • comply w ith restrictions on access in accordance with Schedule 18; and 11 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the Q PW S forest estate • co mply with requirements for the management of air, noise (Section 16), wastes and hazardous substances (Schedule 17). 12 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate 7. Harvesting management

7.3.2 Harvesting operations Harvesting efficiently, safely and with Harvesting operations must integrate with and acceptable levels of impact to the forest faci litate post-harvesting regen eration and development.

7.1 Objective The Code aims to ensure that harvesting 7.3.3 Operators operations are managed to meet the harvester's Operators must be trained and competent to need for efficiency, economy and safety , while meet relevant Code requirements . avoiding or minimising impacts and ensuring the long-term maintenance of the productive and 7.3.4 Equipment regene rative capacity of the forest , biodiversity Equipment must be capable of effici ent operation and other forest values . and be appropriate to both the operation and site .

7.2 Principles Equipment use must minimise soil disturbance/compaction and avoid or minimise

7.2.1 Environmental management damage to retained trees. framework Harvesting operations must be effectively 7.3 .5 Progressive stabilisation planned and managed to ensure that operations : All soil disturbance caused by harvesting must be 1. conform to the Operational Harvesting Plan progressively stabi lised as soon as practical after (OHP); the completion of a section or track. 2. conform to prescriptions for the protection of flora and fau na and regional ecosystems; 7.3.6 This section intentionally removed from the Code 3. conform to the prescriptions for harvesting and rege neration silviculture ; 7.3.7 Research and development 4. conform to the prescriptions for soil and QPW S is responsible for research and water protection ; development of the Code standards to improve 5. integrate with other forest uses and use environmental outcomes. rights; 6. comply w ith legislative and other obligations; DAFF Forest Products is respon sible for reviewing and implementing improved harvesti ng 7. use appropriate equipment and trained practices while maintaining environmental operators; outcomes equal or higher to that required by the 8. use approved practices which are optimally Code . timed and staged in re lation to weather and ground conditions ; 7.3.8 Processing sites 9. minimise timber harvesti ng waste ; The establishment of permanent timber and timber product processing infrastructu re is not 10. avoid or minimise damage to retained tree s; permitted on the QPWS forest estate. 11 . cease operations w hen conditions are adverse ; Temporary processing infrastructure may be 12. undertake corrective acti on where there is approved under special circumstances subject to unaccepta ble damage to the res idual stand; Schedule 14 and are specifically assessed 13. manage pests , weeds, diseases, wastes and th rough the OHP process. pollution ;

7.3.9 Camping sites 14. progressively stabilise disturbance; and Only tempora ry camping to support the 15. are monitored and audited. harvesting activity may be permitted provided the camp complies with the req uire ments of

7.3 Policy Schedule 14. 7.3 .1 Combined operations Wherever possible , DAFF Forest Products must seek to integrate timber sales to optimise utilisation and minimise repeated disturbance. DAFF Forest Products should also consider the integration of timber/timber product sales and/or the sale of protected plants and foliage as per the Code of Practice for the Taking of Protected Plants. 13 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

7.3.10 Forest protection Operations must comply with the requirements . fo r: nature conservation - Schedule 6; ..• cultural heritage - Schedule 7 landscape protection - Schedule 7; .. watercourse protection - Schedule 3; fire management - Core section 2.3.2.3 ; pests and disease - Core section 2.3.2.4; • waste and toxic materials management - Schedule 17; • air and noise pollution management - . Schedule 16; and visitor use - Schedule 7 .

7.3.11 Harvesti ng practices Unless otherwise approved , operations must conform to requirements listed in: • Timber Harvesting Practice - Schedule 1O; • Timber Product Harvesting Practi ce - Schedule 11; • Sandalwood Harvesting - Schedule 12; • Forest Road and Track Management - Schedule 8; and • Timber Road and Track Drainage - Schedule 9. 7.3.1 2 Operational restri cti ons Operations must cease or be restricted when infrastructure, forest values or envi ronmental va lues are threatened by weather or ground conditions (Schedule 18). 14 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate 8. Forest regeneration and growth • habitat tree retention guidelines and the Ensuring that the ecological integrity of the protection and rehabilitation of nature forest is protected. conservation , soil and water values ; and • the need for restriction of or integration with

8.1 Objective other uses of the area. The objective of a harvesting reg ime is to ensure

8.3 Policy the forest can , in time , recover its pre-harvesting species composition , structure and function. Th is 8.3.1 Maintaining the productivity of the is aided by: QPWS forest estate • protecting the ecological integrity of the The area and productivity of the forest estate forest must be maintained and where possible enhanced. The forest must be protected from • mainta ining the potentia l productivity of the damage and/or material or serious environmental forest harm. • managing disturbance

8.3.2 Silvicultural regimes

8.2 Principles Silvicultural regimes applied must be appropriate to the forest and retain a res idual stand

8.2.1 Management framework consistent with the required outcomes of the Timber harvesting must cons ider regeneration Code, including: and growth by ensuring: • habitat and/or recruitment habitat tree • harvesting practice and progression retention ; facilitates regeneration ; • basal area retention limits; • harvested areas are regenerated naturally or • protection of soil , water and other forest artificially; va lues; • regeneration is assessed and appropriate • adequate regeneration or capacity for corrective action taken where levels are adequate regeneration; below those required to maintain site productivity; and • minimise damage to retained trees ; • regeneration is protected from damage • long term forest productivity. including damage from uncontrolled wi ldfire.

8.3.3 Adequacy of regeneration

8.2.2 Forest productivity There is generally an abundance of regeneration The area of productive forest and the level of in Queensland's native forests fol lowing productivity must be maintained and, if desirable, harvesting . increased. Regeneration is considered adequate when it

8.2.3 Forest regeneration and development approximates the characteristics for the pre- Effective forest regeneration and development on harvest stand. the QPWS forest estate must be included in harvesting planning and approval. Appropriate remedial action is to be ta ken where assessment confirms that regeneration is

8.2.4 Silviculture and regeneration inadequate . Silvicultural and regeneration practices must take into account: 8.3.4 Th is section intentionally removed from the Code . • the forest type and ecological needs for effective regeneration and optimum productivity; • the pre-existing forest cond ition, including the need to correct undesirable change , loss or degradati on caused by past use or management; • maintenance of the genetic resources in native forests ; • the site potential and opportunities to restore or enhance forest productivity or value by appropriate silvicultural treatment; 15 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate 9. Compliance, prevention and corrective action Ensuring compliance is assessed, damage corrected , and Code standards are effective

9.1 Objective The Code aims to ensure that compl iance is assessed to ensure that: • operations are Code compl iant; • non-compliance is detected , investigated and corrected ; • damage and/or material or serious environmental harm is identified and corrected ; and • the effectiveness of Code standards is assessed .

9.2 Principles

9.2.1 Code compliance Code compl iance is assessed and non- conformance addressed.

9.2.2 Damage Damage , being any significant loss or degradation of forest soil, water, flora or fauna or other values , is prevented and corrected if it should occur.

9.2.3 Material and serious environmental harm Material and serious environmental harm, as defined by the En vironmental Protection Act 1994, is reported , addressed and managed as required by that Act .

9.2.4 Code effectiveness Effectiveness of Code standards must be monitored and reviewed. 16 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Schedule 1: Timber products This Code of Practice covers the harvesting of the fol lowing limber products (Table 1). Table 1 - Ti mber products Product Group Product Tvpe Comment Round timber Sawl oa Harvesting may involve fe lling of standing trees or the Girders taking of round timber from fallen trees provided the tree Poles is not required for habitat or other Code purposes. DAFF Posts Forest Products should ensure that operations are Rails integrated. Compliance in th is regard is enhanced by one Minina timbers pass treemarking of all products to be harvested . This House poles helps to facilitate that the requirements of th is Code are Piles met including retained habitat and habitat recruitment Landscape timbers trees and residual basal area. Whole trees/shrubs Sandalwood As per Schedule 12. Cut sections Hollow wood Generally taken from fa llen trees or as salvage from Fuel wood round timber harvesting , provided the section is not Steppina blocks providing active habitat for vertebrate animals . Harvesting Processed Split posts and rails involving felling of living standing trees will generally only Sawn posts be considered where th is is part of a silvicultural Sawn wood operation and the tree is not required for habitat or other Sleeoers Code purposes. Split shinqles Specialty pieces Didgeridoo blanks Specialty pieces may be taken from fallen trees or as Boomeranq blanks salvage from round timber harvesting. Removal of pieces Hollow hardwood from standing trees will only be permitted where the Boat knees health and habitat value of the tree is not adversely Craft wood affected and where tree stocking indicates that thinning is Art/ landscape acceptable. Burls and qalls Mulga wood Wood turnina Timber by-products Charcoal Charcoal may be taken from fallen or standing trees. Sawdust Gums/resins Gums/res ins only from stumps or logs. Bark Bark may be taken from dead trees . Bark may be taken as a by-product of timber and other timber product harvesting . Bark may be taken from live trees in accordance with Schedu le 11. 17 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate Schedule 2: Soil assessment S2.1 Soil assessment must be used to (b) Topsoil/subsoil boundary - Determine the identify soil erosion and compaction hazards, topsoil/subsoil boundary in the soil profile using and, through re levant schedules , provide colour, texture or other differences . This guidance for management, where high erodibility boundary may be distinct or diffuse . is not accepted. For further guidance , refer to the Native Forest Soil Protection. Once the boundary is determined sample representative examples of top and subsoil. S2.2 Sampling - The harvesting area must Topsoil samples should be taken below the A 1 be sampled to provide a confident assessment of horizon. Sample subsoil at 30cm if the topsoi l is soil types. At minimum, sample upper, mid and deep or the topsoil/subsoil bound ary is not lower slopes stratified , as necessary, by geology, evident. topog raphy and forest types. Sampling at representative points must be either by pit, use of (c) Texture - Determi ne the texture of the top freshly scraped , existi ng side cuts , or auger. and subsoil. Ta ke a small sample and remove Sample depth should be as deep as is practical stones and roots . Moisten and knead to create a and allow the subsoil to be examined. At each bolus. Add water or soil until the bolus is of sample point, clear the surface litter away to uniform cons istency and j ust fails to stick to the expose the mineral soil surface and assess : finge rs . Knead until there is no apparent change in the feel. Note the feel and coherence as it is (a) Surface condition - From a range of worked. Using the thumb and forefinger, press possible surface conditions , note if the surface out a ribbon and measure the length at w hich it condition of the mineral soil w hen dry is hard fractures. Repeat. Using feel and ribbon length, setting i. e. a compact, apedal surface not easily determ ine the texture (Table 2). penetrated by finge r. Table 2 - Soil texture characteristics Feel Coherence Length Texture Class Gritty, not sticky Nil 0-15mm s sand Grittv, sliahtlv stickv Sliahl 15-25mm SL sandv loam Sponav Good 25-40mm SCL loam Smooth Good 40-S0 mm CL clay loam Liaht plasticine Plastic 50-75mm LC liaht clay Strong plasticine Plastic 75+mm C clay (d) Colour - Determine the soil/horizon colour. Assess horizon and soil colour when the soil is For erodibility rating , the soil colour is based on moist using Table 3. the type horizon, which varies with the texture profile. • uniform/ gradational soil (nil/little textu re change with depth) - brightest except A1. • duplex soils (clear/abrupt texture ch ange with depth ) - top of B horizon . Table 3 - Field soil colour descriptions Colour Mottles Description R - red Yes/No Rich/bright, dark red , red brown, reddish brow n, light red Y - Yellow <10% G/D Dark brown, yellow brown, yellow, liaht brow n YG yellow + arey 10-50%G/D Yellow w ith arey or dark mottles G - arey No/Yes Dark arey, arey brown, pale yellow, pale brown, white D - dark No Dull black, very dark grey S2.3 Soil erodibility watercourse (Schedule 3), forest road and track drainage (Schedule 8) and ti mber harvesting Soil erodibility may be determined using Table 4 practice (Schedule 10). below. The rating is used in slope (Schedule 4), 18 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Use the soil chec k method to estimate the erodibility rating (Ta ble 4). Table 4 - The soil check method 1. Calculate the Base Score Subsoil Topsoil Texture Use the texture of the top and subsoil Texture S/SL UCL LC C S/SL 2 1 UCL 2 1 LC 3 2 1 1 C 4 3 2 2 2.Add Surface texture - fine sand, fine sandy loam, loam fine sandy, silty loam, 1 points to silty clay loam the base Surface condition hard setting Add ½ score for Severe restriction to permeability due to strongly duplex soil profile with factors grey subsoils or hard pan soils Add 1 listed Moderate restriction to permeability due to either gradational or duplex soils with grey subsoils, or strongly duplex soils with yellow grey (YG) Add ½ subsoils Depth to permeability restriction <60cm Add 1 3. Determine the erodibility rating Total Score Erodibility Rating using the total score up to 2.5 Low 3 to 4.5 Moderate 5+ High The determined rating should be considered to Table 5 - Field test for soil dispersion and ensure that it is cons istent with the general field potential erodibility evidence of erodibility, e.g. surface wash, rilling , Reaction gullyi ng or slumping and undercut road batters. Tota l breaku Where the rating is inconsistent, further sampling Fragments and must be undertaken. uite milk Obvious milkiness Moderate Moderate Dispersion - Erodibility rati ng generally ta kes None/little breakup Slightly/non Low-Mod into account dispersibility. If fi eld evidence (e.g. Or milkiness soil pipes) suggests highly dispersible subsoils, carry out a test. Place 4-5 peds or small fragments in a small volume of water and observe for 10 minutes. Note the reaction and adjust erodibility rating as appropriate using Table 5. 19 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Erosion hazard - Erodibility refers to the inherent erodibility. Hazard must also consider slope, slope length , cover and erosivity. Table 6 shows erosion hazard in relation to slope. Table 6 - Erosion hazard Erodibility Rating Slope ( degrees) < 10 10-<20 20-<30 30+ Low Low Moderate Hiqh Ve rv hiqh Moderate Moderate High Very high Very high Hiqh High Verv hiqh Verv hiqh Verv high S2.4 Soil compaction Soil compaction is not generally a major problem in low intensity sing le tree selection harvesting. However, on certain soil types and under wet conditions , compaction can be a localised problem with adverse effects that may persist for 50 years or more . Compaction may be difficu lt to visually detect but rutting is a sign of serious compaction . The Code makes provision for management of compaction in various schedu les and particularly operational restrictions . In addition to the soil erodibility rating , the compaction rating must also be assessed and used to guide the application of operational restrictions (Schedule 18). The soil compaction rating can be roughly estimated using Table 7. Table 7 - Estimating the soil compaction rating 1. Determine the base score Sand/sandy loam Score 1 Loam/clay loam Score 2 Liqht clav/clav Score 3 2. Add points for Hiqh silt/fine sand Add 1 Wet conditions Add 2 Soil scalped <25cm Add 1 Soil scalped >25cm Add 2 3. Determine the compaction Total score Compaction rating rating from the total score 1 Low 2 Moderate 3 Hiqh 4+ Very high Where the compaction rating is high, special care should be ta ken and operational restrictions applied early enough to avoid soil damage. S2.5 Soil moisture and drainage Soil characteristics may provide a guide to soil moisture and drainage. Soils that are wet (nearing field capacity) or saturated must be operated on in accordance with Schedule 18 operati onal restricti ons. For the purposes of operational restrictions wet soils are indicated when a bolus leaves a wet outline on the hand. A guide to soil drainage can help identify soils that may become waterlogged and subject to serious compaction (Ta ble 8). Areas of soils likely to become waterlogged must be identified and operated on in dry weather. 20 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate Excessive = rapidly drains (e.g. sand dune). Poor = may be su bjected to flooding . Table 8 - Soil drainage and soil texture Subsoil Subsoil texture colour S/SL UCULC/C Red Excess ive Good Yellow Good Moderate Yellow + Grev Moderate Poor Grey Excessive to poor Very poor Dark NA Poor 21 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate Schedule 3: Watercourse protection S3.1 General Availability and protection requirements W hen determining the availability of each particular Watercourses must be protected from any adverse tree or effects of a harvesting activity: impacts of harvesting to maintain their physical integrity, environmental values and water quality. • Protection req uirements are determined by The protection system provides protection to areas , looki ng in all directions and using the prescribed subject to single tree selection harvesting, against protective measures applying to the visible the average annual peak stream flows. features to provid e the highest level of protection . General protection principles • When dete rmining the availability of a particular Protection is to be provided by the establishment tree , applyi ng the highest level of protection and and management of: visible features principles may require a greater buffer than is warranted by the closest (i) a watercourse protection zone around the watercourse. streams , gullies and waterways that make up the watercourse network; and • Where a higher classification watercourse meets a lower class of watercourse (transition point), (ii) controls on disturbance in the harvesting the higher W PZ extends radially into the lower area. W PZ. The aim of this , and oth er, schedules is to minimise • Avoid any harvesti ng activities that accelerate , disturbance within the buffer and filter zones . Th is or are likely to accelerate , erosion. can also be thought of as acting to maintain the physical integrity and environmental values within When determining if a parti cular tree is available for the watercourse and buffer and filter zones. harvesti ng , determine the protection requirement by: The watercourse protection zone (WPZ) is made up 1. Classify the watercourse type - At the of a: assessment point, look both ways along the • Buffer zone (BZ) -An area extending beyond watercourse . Refer to S3.2 Watercourse the defining bank into the harvest area classification and classify on the basis of the designated as a no disturbance zone. features provid ing the highest level of Management involves complete protection protection. (exclusion) to maintain watercourse stability and envi ronment. The w idth of this zone varies 2. Consult the minimum protection with watercou rse morphology. Th is is requirements for that class of watercou rse. comprised of two components: Refer to the watercourse protection zone requirements in Table 9. i. Setback - The minimum excl usion distance from the defi ning bank that is defined by 3. Consider the particular situation - Provide watercourse type (Table 9). additional protection if warranted e.g. bank ii. Slump protection - The minimum setbac k slump. Refer to the general buffer zone and is extended as necessary, based on slump filter zone cond itions. and other instability, to protect against disturbance or other threats. 4. Apply the determined protection requirement. • Filter zone (FZ) -An area beyond the BZ in w hich disturbance is conditiona lly permitted For further guidance consult: Native Forest provided the area is maintained such as it both Watercourse Protection , QPWS background physically supports the BZ and protects water information , May 2002. quality by fi ltering overland flow. The area outside the W PZ that is available for harvesting , given all other Code requirements are met, is the harvesting area (Diagram 2). 22 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate S3.2 Watercourse classification Diagram 1 - Watercourse types A watercourse can only have one class ification type at any point. Th is class ifi cation applies to both sides Streams of the watercourse. Streams are rivers and creeks with a channel or braided channe l and disti nct bed and banks. Terraces and lateral flood plains may also be present. Flow may be permanent, semi-permanent, intermittent, or limited to periods after heavy rain. Streams may often exist only as waterholes or a chain of waterholes . In the absence of surface water, Class 1 - Active Zone >1 Orn the bed and immediate banks w ill have vegetation Class 2 - Active Zone <1 Orn characteristic of frequent rec harge of groundwater or be locally known water sources . Gullies are incised "U" or "V" shaped channe ls, conveyi ng runoff duri ng or immediately after periods of heavy rainfall. Bed and banks are clearly defined with at least one steep bank and has clear evidence (Trench-like of soil erosion/deposition . Gullies may be continuous with unstable or discontinuous and be formed as either hillside or banks) Once U-shaped profile has been valley bottom gullies . Discontinuous hillside gulli es determined, active zone width/erosion may have an outlet fan that may be sensitive to face do not alter watercourse classific ation. See Table 9 for protection disturbance. Characteristic vegetation may occur on levels. bed and immediate banks. Cross-sectiona l profile is the major classification method to distinguish between U-s haped and V- V shape Gully shaped gull ies. U-shaped gullies are typically trench-like and may be experiencing undercutting and are typically unstable . (Sloped and V-shaped gullies are typically more stable as the stable banks) upper slopes have eroded or settled over time to attain a more stable slope. However, slumping can Once V-shaped profile has been be present. determined, active zone width/erosion face do not alter watercourse classification. See Table 9 for protection levels. Waterways are typically dish shaped, gently Waterway incli ned, shallow, and open depressions, which are easily discernible to the eye. They have a concave Shallow depression with gently inclined slopes. cross section and moderate approach slope. Active Active zone may be zones may be vegetated or slightly incised . These incised. convey water after heavy rainfall but may be seasonally waterlogged with characteristic vegetation indicative of a wetter micro climate. Once waterway-shaped profile has been determined and an active zone is present. See Table 9 for protection levels 23 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate Water features are natural or artificial waterholes , Diagram 1 Watercourse types - continued impoundments, wetlands or springs and soaks. Water features may be associated w ith watercourses Water feature and characterised by one or more of the following : the presence of water for more than three months in a normal wet season In the absence of surface water, characteristic vegetation indicative of frequent recharge of groundwater or locally known as associated w ith water features , may be evident Class Active zone Saturated soil Soil conditions may show evidence of >1000m2 ard/0< characteristic prolonged water saturati on Minor <1000m2 vegetation • Flora and fauna debris may be present, e.g. dead water plants; mussel or crayfish shells, fi sh skeletons, etc. • Springs and soaks are areas w here water flows from the surface or w here the soil is damp as a result of seepage Refer to S3.3.1 (Wetland protection requirements) for detailed wetland/water feature protection requirements. Important definitions Active zone - This is a zone of active erosion or smartweeds, while stream banks may have tea deposition characterised by either: trees , bottlebrushes , forest red gum and river red • any erosion face greater than 10cm high; or gum. Watercou rse bed vegetation may be sparsely represented in intermittent streams w ith sandy beds . • a scour/deposition area greater than 1m in width. Deposited material may be loose , unconsolidated sand, gravel or water-washed stone. The zone may be obscured by litter or be associated with a significant reduction in surface cover. Width is measured across the deposited material or scour where no erosion face exists. Erosion face - An erosion face is a steep bare soil slope more or less adjacent to the zone of water flow. Height is measured vertically from the average base level of the watercourse to the top of the erosion face . Characteristic vegetation - Characteristic vegetation can occur in any watercourse type and typically indicates good subsoil moisture cond itions as a result of prolonged subsoil seepage. This vegetation is different from that found on areas adjacent to the bed and banks . For example, watercou rse beds may have dead aquati c vegetation , water couch, rushes , sedges and 24 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate S3.3 Watercourse protection zone (WPZ) requ irement s Diagram 2 - Watercourse protection zone requ irements Protection requirements Watercourse Protection Zone Buffer Zone Filter Zone Harvesting area Defining bank Average annual peak flow level Slump Width varies with protection class and soil type Low/low Minimum setback 0 Active zone 0 , " Table 9 - Watercourse protection zone requirements by watercourse type WATERCOURSE PROTECTION ZONE IWPZl WATER BUFFER ZONE FILTER ZONE COURSE Minimum setback (m) from TYPE Minimum Setback 131 the Buffer Zone (1)&(2) Increase as necessary for the situation. Soil Erodibiliti Ratina 5-7 1-4 Stream 1 Set back 5m beyond the defining bank1•i plus additional distance 30 20 for slump protection <5l (G) Consideration of additional protection Stream 2 should be given to significant major streams. 20 15 U Shaped Set back a minimum of 2m beyond the top of the defining bank14' Gully plus slump15 & 7l or head scarp protection . 181 10 5 Set back 1 metre beyond th e top of the defining bank1" 1 or, if a V Shaped slope with no evidence of Average Annual Peak Flow level, 5m Gully from the active zone (erosion face >0.5m) or 3m from the active 5 5 zone (erosion face <0.5m). Add slump15• 9 or head scarp protecti on. <8l Waterway Set back 1 metre (2m ER 5-7) from the active zone or vegetation indicating soil saturation _'1°l Add slump 151 or head scarp 5 5 protection 18l At minimum determine cause , correct drainage/apply head Eros ion Area scarp/slump protection plus fil ter zone. Seek advice where Seek advice Seek advice unsure. Maior Feature Set back a minimum of 20m from the water feature1 ' '' 20 15 Minor Feature Set back a minimum of 10m from the water feature 1" 1 10 10 25 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Table 9 Notes (7) In U-shaped gullies the slump height should (1) Refer to the Native Forest Watercourse include slump and erosion face height tog ether. Protection guidelines for more detail on buffer (8) Head scarps are the near vertical, unstable face and filter widths and requirements. marking the nick point in a gully or waterway. In (2) Treat parallel , braided , or adjacent watercourses addition to the appropriate watercourse set or erosion fingers separately. back, protect head scarp with an additional set back of at least Sm or three times the scarp (3) The setback, the minimum exclusion distance height, w hichever is greater. The appropriate from the defining bank, is determined in th is watercourse filter zone is then added to ma ke table according to watercourse class ification. the head scarp protection zone. The head scarp protection zone extends both upstream and In the following Strategic Environmental Areas downstream of the nick point. (SEA): Watercourse slump protection requirements are The Gulf Rivers Strategic Environmental not to be added to the head scarp protection. Area ; See S3.7 for standard conditions. The Cape York Strategic Environmental Area ; (9) Use U-shaped gully set back if bank is unstable . Fraser Island Strategic Environmental Area ; (10) Protection is primarily designed for small hillside • Hinchinbrook Island Strateg ic Environmental waterways. Very large waterways, particularly Area ; those incorporating stream-type features, must be subject to stream protection levels. A the no-logging setback to apply is: Waterway that does not have an active zone • 50m from the defining bank of a may be treated as a general harvesting area watercourse in a Strateg ic Environmental however harvesting debris and machinery Area , or disturbance should be minimised in any obvious • 100m from the defining bank of a channel . watercourse in a designated precinct within (11}The W PZ is to be measured, as a minimum, a Strategic Environmental Area from: (4) The defining bank is: the fu ll storage level of the water feature ; or • the terrace or bank; or • the outer edge of the constructed bank/walls if no bank, the point on the active flood plain for artificial impoundments. that confines the average annual peak flows Damp or saturated soil associated with the water and is not indicated by any single major flood feature is cons idered part of the water feature event (refer Diagram 2). and the WPZ commences from the outside edge The peak flow level may be evidenced by of the damp area. Vegetation characteristic of benches , laminations, scour or deposition or the wet soils may be present. interface between annual and perennial Additional protection requirements are detailed vegetation. in Schedule 6.3.2 - Water features . (5) Slumps are a near vertica l face coincident with , S3.3.1 Wetland protection or separate to , th e active zone w hich is or has been unstable . Protection requires an additional Wetlands are defined as per the Glossary. This is a set bac k equal to 3 times the slump height. For general definition that includes watercourses, soaks, calculation of slump protection, the minimum dams , water holes etc. Schedule 3.2 lists some more slump height to be used is one metre and then specific attributes of wetlands , also called water in increments of half a metre , rounding up. features in this Code . For banks that are in close proxim ity, slump Protection types protection measures shall be appli ed to the Wetlands, or water features , have two aspects of opposite side, where this exceeds the buffer that protection that must be applied : would otherwise apply to the bank being • Physica l protection (buffer and filter zones assessed . as prescribed in Schedule 3); and Close proxi mity is three times the slump height • Habitat protection (as prescribed in of the opposite bank plus the setback measured Schedule 6.3.2). horizontally from the slump face on the opposite side of the watercourse . Both of these protection requirements are applied (6) Slope limits may also exclude areas adjacent to simultaneously and are measured from the top of the the BZ from harvesting . defining bank (S3) or the outer edge of saturated soil/characteristic vegetation (S6 .3.2). Wetland protection requirements 26 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPW S forest estate marking trees for remova l. Refer to the general 1. Classify the watercourse and any buffer zone and fi lter zone conditions . wetland/water feature - a. Using Diagram 1 in S3.2 , class ify the 5. Apply the determined protection watercourse at the assessment point by requirements. Overlap any wetland/water looking upstream and downstream along feature protection over the watercourse both sides of the watercourse. Classify on protection zone. the basis of the features providing the highest level of protection . A watercourse S3.4 General conditions can only have one classification type at any Protection must be increased, as necessary, to take point and this applies to both sides. account of the particular situation . b. Using Diagram 1 in S3.2 , identify any water feature components ; the ful l storage level (if S3.5 Buffer zone standard conditions any) , the defining bank (if any), the extent of BZ standard conditions are: any saturated soil and the extent of characteristic vegetation . Use Diagram 1, • No tree is to be felled if any part of the tree S3 .2, to classify the wetland/water feature above ground (bole or buttress) is within or as either a major or minor wetland based on touches the BZ. the area of the full storage level , if present, • Machines are not permitted in the zone unless at or the area of satu rated soil/characteristic a cross ing. vegetation . • Reading or snigging is prohibited along the bed of any watercourse. 2. Consult the minimum protection requirements for the cl ass of watercourse and • New road crossings (across streams or class 1 any wetland/water feature . Refer to the gully) , major snig track cross ings and minor snig watercourse protection zone requirements listed track crossings on U-shaped gullies must be in Table 9 in S3.3. Also apply the wetland marked in the fie ld. Crossings must: habitat protection requ irements from S6 .3.2, if be located in straight, stable sections with required. low banks; be aligned at right angles to water fl ow; 3. Apply additional wetland protection in the be more than 200m from another crossing following situations : where terrain permits (and in accordance a. Where the wetland/water feature is located with the Operating Guidelines); within the defini ng banks, but is not in the not involve pushing of soil or debris into main channel , the S3 and S6 .3.2 buffers still watercourses or bank disturbance beyond need to be applied 1. the alignment; b. A high impact earthworks 2 buffer of 200m be constructed using gravel or corduroy with must be applied to the wetland/water feature minimal earth fil l. Use a culvert, tempo rary and/or wate rcourse 3 where these are as necessary, if water is flowi ng or will flow located in a: during use; and i. Great Barrier Reef catchment; have diversion drains on approaches and ii. Wetland located on a Map of immediately stabilise and rehabilitate the Referrable W etlands ; crossing at completion of use. iii. Wetland Protection Area ; • Minor snig tracks by rubber-tyred mac hines may only cross V-shaped gullies and waterways If no high impact earthworks are required , where the tota l height of any erosion face only the required S3 watercourse and associated with the active zone is less than S6 .3.2 wetland habitat buffers are to apply 30cm, and w hen: to other harvesting operations. Slump is not present outside the active zone , i.e. on the bank ; 4. Consider the particular situation - Provide operationally essential ; additional protection w hen assessing trees for the bed is dry; removal if warranted , e.g. bank slump, tree earthworks are not requ ired ; cannot be felled away from the buffer, when use does not create an erosion channel ; the crossing must be moved to another site as soon as a wear track becomes evid ent. 1 These types of wetlands/water features have very high • Trees are not to be felled into the BZ unless they conservation values due to their ability to function as refugia are done so in accordance with S3.7. between inundation periods. 2 Refer to definition of high impact earthworks in S26 of the • Trees accidentally felled into the zone must be removed with minimal disturbance to soil or Sustainable Planning Regulation 2009, page 187. 3 Refer to SPP 4/11 , requirements fo r a HES wetland , Table2, vegetation. page 9. Also conforms to requirements in Regional • The burning of accumulations of fuel in the BZ Vegetation Management Code for Southeast Queensland must be avoided . Bioregion - version 2, AS T.3. 27 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate harvesting of timber and timber products in the S3.6 Filter zone standard conditions vicinity of stable watercourses where all other Code req uirements can be met. The intention is always to FZ standard conditions are: fully protect the BZ vegetation and the integrity of the Harvesting is cond itiona l to compl iance w ith filter bed and banks of the watercourse. zone conditions. • Operations are prohibited when soils are wet BZ (nearing field capac ity) or saturated. The following cond itions for protection of the BZ may apply: • Fell trees away from the BZ to minimise soil or understorey disturbance. • Trees are not to be felled across the gully or waterway w hen the soil is wet (nearing field • Trees are not to be felled into the FZ unless capacity) or saturated. these can be felled with minimal disturbance to soil surface cover or understorey. Disturbed • Felling across the gully or waterway is not to areas are to be stabilised as necessa ry. occur if a flood or storm is imminent, e.g . if the weather forecast is for storms or heavy ra ins • Tracked snigging machines (e.g . dozer) are not that is likely to result in seasonal flow. to operate w ithin the FZ except fo r the construction of, and/or snigging across, • Felling is not to occur if such action is likely to designated crossings. trigger accelerated erosion or instabi lity of the bed or banks . • Major snig tracks must not enter the filter zone unless at a crossing. • The felled trees must bridge the active zone . • Rubber-tyred snigging, forward ing and all fel ling • The trees must be promptly removed, e.g. with in machines must minimise disturbance and use two days. walk-over techniques w here possible . • Harvesting debris must be removed from the BZ • Harvesting debris which represents a fire hazard without the need for the machine to enter the to reta ined trees greater than 10cm dbhob is to zone and the zone is not damaged or an erosion be removed and placed at least 2m from the channe l created . tree. FZ • Extraction must avoid creation of an erosion The intention is to ensure that the FZ is left in a channel. This may be assisted by using condition to fu lfill its filter function . This means mechanical harvesting equipment, log-end minimal soil and understorey disturbance and lifting , minimising log turning and , as avoidance of compaction or creation of erosion appropriate, external wi nching. channels in the zone. Felling into the FZ may occur • Actual or potential erosion channels created by where the conditions for protecting the BZ are met extraction are to be stabilised by place ment of and: litter and careful drainage . • Any erosion channels are repaired and stabili sed

3.7 Head scarp protection zone standard conditions • Trees can only be felled with in a FZ if minimal disturbance to the understorey can be achieved Head scarp protection zone standard conditions are: • Harvesting debris which represents a fire haza rd • Head scarp protection zones are to be added to to retained trees greater than 10cm dbhob is to the appropriate watercourse setback (i. e. buffer). be removed and placed at least 2m from the • Crossings for new roads and snig tracks (minor tree. and major) must not be located within 10m (u p and downstream) of a head scarp protection zone. • Crossings for existing roads and snig tracks (minor and major) that are located withi n 1Orn (up and downstream) of a head scarp protection zone, may be used where continued use wi ll not accelerate erosion . • No machinery (felling or snigging) is permitted within the head scarp protection zone . • Trees fe lled from within the fi lter zone must be fe lled to the outside of the head scarp filter zone . S3.8 Additional tree-felling rules for felling across V-shaped gullies and waterways. The following prescriptions are additional to those in S3.5 and S3.6, and allow for the legitimate 28 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S3.9 Impacts on the Filter zone from the harvesting area Cattle tracks and disused roads - Watercourse The intention is to ensure that trees felled from within protection measures do not apply to cattle tracks and the harvesting area are harvested and removed in disused roads unless they become an active such a way that the FZ is left in a cond ition that will watercourse. Avoid disturbance, cross at right angles allow it to fulfill its filter function . Th is means minimal and do not snig along cattle trac ks and disused soil and understorey disturbance and avoidance of roads w here possible. compaction or creation of erosion channels in this zone. Alluvial fans -Alluvial fans may be sensitive to disturbance. Fans below hillside gullies should be Trees growing in the harvesting area that are not operated cautious ly under dry conditions using filter available for harvesting because their lean dictates zones or more stringent conditions over the full area. that they cannot be felled away from the FZ, may be felled into the FZ subject to the followi ng conditions: Flood plains - Flood plains are generally subject to • There is a natural gap in the FZ vegetation large watercourse protection requirements . The enough to accommodate the felled tree. configuration of these features can be highly variable The tree head does not fall into the BZ. and harvesti ng must be carefully planned and considered . • Harvesting debris w hich represents a fire hazard to retained trees greater than 10cm dbhob is to Harvesting is not allowed on narrow lateral flood be removed and placed at least 2m from the plains, including w hen they are enclosed by terrace tree . banks (Diagram 3). Major flood plains or broad • Harvesting debris is removed from the FZ lateral flood plains may be complex channelised w ithout the need for the machine to enter the BZ systems. Watercourse protection requirements must and the FZ vegetation is not damaged or an be appli ed to each of the flood plain features and the erosion channel created. remaining area may then be planned for harvesting. • Any erosion channels created in the FZ are repaired and stabilised . Where harvesti ng is deemed acceptable: • plan operations to avoi d wet or flood prone

3.10 Harvesting area general conditions periods; The general harvesting area is to be operated to • cease operati ons before soils become wet or avoid excessive soil disturbance and artificially saturated ; concentrating or directing overland flow into the • take particular care with crossings to avoid flood watercourse protection zone 0/'JPZ). scour; • use walk-over practic es and minimise and Minimum distances from the W PZ for drainage stabilise any ground disturbance; discharge are: • manage debris to avoid turbulence , secondary • landing and snig track drainage 1Orn damage or a fire hazard ; and • road drainage 20m • avoid activities or outcomes that may accelerate • fueling , fuel storage/waste disposal 40m development of declared animal and plant populations. Refer also to S9.2 for critical locations. 29 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the Q PW S forest estate Diagram 3 - Acceptable harvesting on a major flood plain Major lateral flood plain (NB: Watercourse protections guidelines apply) 0 Harvesting acceptable Defining bank Terrace Average annual peak flow level Harvesting area if accessible ~ Harvesting uncertain/unacceptable Defining bank variable and uncertain Narrow harvesting area access difficult Complex channels 30 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate

Schedule 4: Slope exclusion zones S4.1 General Operations are to be excluded from areas that are above the defined slope limits, expressed in terms of a majority slope (Table 10). Table 10 - Majority slope limits (degrees) Low Moderate Hi h 30 25 20 S4.2 Procedure The procedure for slope protection is : • determine the soil erodibility rating as prescribed in Schedule 2; • determine the slope classes using a cl inometer to measure average slope over representative distances of 20m; and • apply the majority slope limit to each soil erodibility rating area . Areas are deemed operational if less than 10 percent of the area is outside the slope limit (Diagram 4). Diagram 4 - Majority slope limits Majority slope limits 31 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 5: Instability exclusion zones SS.2 Restrictions SS.1 General Harvesti ng and associated activities must be Road construction must avoid areas of instability and ensure that drainage is not directed into excluded from areas of obvious past, present or potential instability. unstable areas. Evidence of instability may be present in the form Harvesti ng must be restricted in and around areas of instability. Large areas of instability must of exposed slip/sl ump faces , or suggested by ground cracks, geology or hummocky be excluded from the harvesting area . Small topogra phy. It is important that these areas are areas may be included but subject to restriction . not destabilised physically by removing trees Areas of instability should be judged on the particu lar circumstances and likely level of partic ularly the larger trees above the unstable area, or by th e redirecti on of road and trac k interference . drainage into the unstable area. A minimum exclus ion zone must provide: • a distance above the slip face equal to three times the height of the face or 1Orn whichever is greater; ' • a distance of 1Orn below the toe of the slip or unstable area (Diagram 5); and • a minimum distance of 1Orn either side of the unstable area . Diagram 5 - Instability exclusion zone Instability exclusion zone Retain trees above area and ensure road or track drainage is not directed into the unstable area Above scarp/fracture a buffer: • Minimum of 10m or • 3 times scarp height Whichever is greate r Minimum of Minimum of 10m 1Ometres below either side of the / toe or ground fracture unstable area 32 Code of practice for native forest timbe r production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 6: Nature conservation S6.1 Species protection Where there are no economic or practical S6.1.1 In addition to section 2.3.2.1, where alternatives , the followi ng clearing limits will threatened species (refer Glossary for definitions) apply: are known or are likely to occur and are likely to • endangered REs - no clearing as defined in be impacted on in the course of harvesting Appendix 2 of the Code ; operations , protective measures consistent with • of concern REs - clearing to be minimised systems and prescriptions provided by relevant and in all cases the total area of clearing wi ll government agencies are to be applied. be restricted for individual patches or REs in accordance with Table 11 below; and S6.2 Regional Ecosystem (RE) protection • not of concern REs - clearing to be S.6.2.1 Harvesti ng is not permitted in 'rainforest' minimi sed. regional ecosystems defined by the Queensland Herbarium. Once regional ecosystem boundaries Where prescribed clearing limits listed in Table are established, trees must not be felled into 11 for "of concern" REs are likely to be exc eeded, rainforest regional ecosystems . Distinct regional or if an endangered RE boundary or type is in ecosystems are recognised down to one hectare dispute, Forest Products will develop an accurate in area. RE map of the area in question at an operational scale as part of the OHP process . Th is map can S6.2.2 Individual rainforest tree species >25cm be used for seeking OHP approval w hen dbhob in non-rainforest regional ecosystems required . This action may be undertaken initial must be protected from harvesting damage OHP preparation or at any time Forest Products unless there are no alternatives for access, or becomes aware of an issue during the course of they present an unacceptable safety risk. This harvesting. restriction does not apply to natural hoop pine , bunya pine or kauri pine trees or other rainforest Mapping species commonly found in the lower stratum of The available RE mapping (generally at non-rainforest ecosystems . 1:100,000 scale) w ill be incorporated into the OHP documentation. Forest Products will obtain Standing dead rainforest tree species that are not the RE mapping from the relevant agency or required for habitat may be salvaged (harvested). Queensland Herbarium. S6.2.3 In the context of the Code, the QPWS may request maps from Forest Products construction or re-opening of access tracks on a case-by-case basis for endangered REs and/or snig tracks through rainforest reg ional where the boundary is changed. ecosystems is not permitted unless this is in accordance with Core section 1.3. Contiguous areas W hen calculating a 'contiguous area', the patch S6.2.4 RE Planning of an individual RE type within the OHP boundary and an adjoining RE of the same type outside the Clearing harvesting area but within the adjoining State In the context of timber harvesting , clearing will forest estate wi ll be considered as a whole . be minimised in all REs . Rainforest REs Where it is demonstrated that there are no Construction or re-opening of roads and snig practical alternatives, limited clearing is permitted trac ks through rainforest REs is not generally for new roads , landings , major snig tracks and permitted. However QPWS may approve , on a camping and processing sites . (See Appendix 2 case-by-case basis, the construction or re- for a definition of clearing that applies under this opening of roads and snig tracks through Code ). rainforest REs where there is no alternative access. QPWS will consider the alternative access options , taking into account net envi ronmental impacts, cost, safety, and practicality. 33 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Table 11: Allowable clearing 1 limits within contiguous "of concern " REs Area of RE. (ha) Maximum Allowable Clearing' 0-<2 Nil 2 - < 10 0.5 ha 10- < 20 1 ha 20 - < 40 2 ha 40+ 5 % of RE oatch 1. See Appendix 2 for defin1lIon of cleanng that applies under this Code. 2. Of RE occurring as a contiguous area within the State forest. 3. Within a contiguous area. 4 Where harvesting occurs use 'walkover' snigging techniques. S6.2.5 Definition of clearing Hardwood forests with in the greater glider range For a defin ition on clearing, refer to Append ix 2. A minimum of six live habitat trees and two S6.3 Habitat trees recruitment habitat trees per hectare wi ll be designated and retained th roughout the S6.3.1 General harvesting area . Habitat trees and recruitment habitat trees are those that are required to be retained for wildlife Hardwood forests outside the greater glider conservation purposes. The follow ing standard range requ irements for the retention of habitat and recruitment habitat trees must be applied to all A minimum of four live habitat trees and one harvesting operations. recruitment habitat tree per hectare will be designated and retained throughout the Alternative approaches may be permitted where harvesting area. the proposal conforms to the recommendations of the report by the Habitat Tree Technica l Cypress forests Advisory Group entitled "Managing Habitat Trees in Queensland Forests", (April 1998), or provides Where available, a m inimum of two live habitat equal or better environmental outcomes. Th is trees and one recru itment tree per hecta re wi ll includes applying the "Landsca pe Approach to be designated and retained throughout the Habitat Tree Protection and Management" harvesting area . detailed under section Q4b of the report. Where the number of habitat trees available S6.3.2 Habitat tree and recruitment habitat does not meet the required standards, tree requirements by forest types additional recruitment habitat trees must be Note: Where referred to in this schedule, "per selected according to Table 12. hectare" habitat tree and recruitment habitat tree requ irements apply to each hectare of the harvesting area. Th is is consistent with retaining the desired spacing of habitat and recruitment habitat trees at a landscape level. A habitat or recruitment habitat tree may be either merchantable or non-merchantable . 34 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the Q PW S forest estate Table 12 - Selection of Habitat and Recruitment Trees Hardwood forests within the Hardwood forests outside the Cypress forests greater glider range greater glider range Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of habitat trees recruitment habitat trees recruitment habitat trees recruitment available/ha habitat available/ha habitat available/ha habitat trees/ha trees/ha trees/ha 6 2 4 1 2 1 5 4 3 3 1 3 4 5 2 4 0 4 3 7 1 6 2 8 0 7 1 10 0 11 Where habitat trees occur uniforml y on the and are likely to persist over several harvest harvesting area, additional recruitment habitat rotations. Selected habitat trees must be trees must be retained according to Ta ble 13 dominant or co-do minant trees, w ith at least one where >50 percent of the basal area of the stand 'hollow' 10cm or greater in diameter. The 'hollow' (on a per hectare basis) is to be removed . The must be visible and greater than 2m above the most appropriate recruitment habitat tree is to be ground (Diagram 6). selected using S6.3.4. W here the required numbers of these additional trees are not Habitat trees, should be evenly spaced wherever availabl e in a partic ular size class, trees must be possible on each hectare. retained in the size class below at a rate of 1.5 trees for every tree below the required number Where there are more than the required number (or round up if the number is a fracti on). of habitat trees, the followi ng hierarchy w ill be used to select habitat trees: Table 13 - Additional recruitment habitat trees where >50 percent of basal area is removed 1. Size - Habitat trees greater than 80cm Number of additional dbhob must be selected wherever availabl e, recruitment habitat as they have the highest chan ce of Size class (dbh in cm) contain ing large or multiple hollows. trees to be retained per hectare 60 - 70 2 Further selection must be made in the 50- S0cm dbhob range. 50 - 60 3 40 - 50 4 Smaller hollow-bearing trees , less than 50cm 30 - 40 5 dbhob, are selected only when sufficient 20 - 30 6 larg er trees are not available. 10-20 9 2. Habitat characteristics - In addition to Water features/Wetlands having a hollow, the presence of mistletoe, All trees greater than 60cm dbh must be retained epiphytes , fungal bodies, termite nests and as habitat trees or recruitment habitat trees in 'deformities' that provide habitat. areas designated as water features/wetlands and within a 30m zone around water features (water 3. Species - Habitat trees must be chosen in features are defined in Schedule 3 Watercourse proportions w hich reflect the overall speci es protection, see also definition of Wetl and ). mix present on the site, unless there are documented special reasons to favour S6.3.3 Habitat tree selection criteria species that are particul arly valued by The aim of habitat tree selection is to retain the wi ldlife. larger living trees that contain the most hollows Diagram 6 - Habitat tree 35 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate Habitat tree S6.3.4 Recruitment habitat tree selection S6.3.5 Inclusion of trees from exclusion criteria zones, other retained trees and The aim of recruitment habitat tree selection is to standing dead trees retain the trees with the greatest potential to No more than 50 percent of the habitat trees and become habitat trees in the shortest time . These recruitment habitat trees in any one hectare can recruitment habitat trees shall be from a species be counted from exclusion zones. known to develop hollows earlier, that live a relatively long time (thi s may inc lude , but is not Trees retained because th ey contain active bird exclusive to, Eucalyptus, Corymbia and nests, other native fauna or termite nests w ith Angophora species) and be as evenly spaced as hollows, and trees retai ned under SMPs (e.g. possible. yellow bellied glider feed trees), may be counted as habitat or recruitment habitat trees provided Consistent w ith the above requirements, the they meet the selection criteria. follow ing hierarchy of criteria must be used in the selection of recruitment habitat trees: Standing dead trees and stags with hollows , or • Trees which are at least co-dominant from deeply fissu red or cracked bark, must be retained within a range of size classes representative unless they are a safety or fi re hazard. Standing of the stand and with habitat forming dead trees and stags that contain an active nest characteristics, including damaged or or any raptor nest must be reta ined (see also senescing crowns , visible termite nests or S11.2). other deformities , or, if these are not available; • Other trees with habitat forming characteristics , including damaged or senescing crow ns , visible termite nests or other deformities, or, if these are not available; • Trees which are at least co-dominant that don't as yet exhibit habitat forming characteristics. 36 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate Map 1 - Predicted range of the greater glider, Petauroides volans, in Queensland Distri bution based on The Mammals of Australia (Strahan (ed .) 1995, Wildnet sighti ngs 4 and the IUCN Red List of Threate ned Speci es - Version 2014. 15. • Major Towns '',.,. Major Roads '"'-.., Highways Great Glider Range angatta J\Gympid\._,_\201)-14\Esm• ~ent'I07-Sme\201l CON A..,..._..1-Gode Rrilaw Vanlona\2014-0l-tt M•ryborovgh\Grut..- Glider Map 4 Department of Science, lnfonmation Technology, Innovation and the Arts (2014) WildNet. (Database}. Department of Science, lnfonmation Technology, Innovation and the Arts, <1510212012>. 5 Lun ney, D., Menkhorst, P., Winter, J., Ellis, M., Strahan, R. , Oakwood, M., Burnett, S., Denny, M. & Martin, R. 2008. Petauroides vo/ans. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Accessed 17 Feb 2012. Map located at http://maps.iucnredlist.org/map.html?id=40579. 37 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate S6.3.6 Habitat and recruitment habitat tree • For understorey and ground-nesting species management - equal to the height of the tallest tree in Habitat trees and rec ru itment habitat trees must proximity to the nest. be identified, marked or otherwise protected where they may be at risk of harvesting damage or deliberate fell ing. To minimise fire damage, fe lli ng must not accumulate harvesting debris within 2m of habitat trees and recruitment habitat trees , and fe lling or snigging must not physically damage the bole of the tree . Habitat trees and rec ruitment habitat trees are to be retai ned in subsequent harvesti ng operations including sales of fi rewood, fence posts , landscape materi als, poles and silvicultural thinning (for retained tree damage or regeneration issues refer also to S10.3). S6.4 Feed, shelter and nest trees S6.4.1 Trees sheltering animals - Trees in which any native fauna species is visi ble must be protected from harvesting or harvesting damage until the animal moves out of danger of its own accord. Cutters sha ll inspect trees for the presence of native fauna species . S6.4.2 Feed trees - Feed trees will be protected in accordance w ith the relevant SMP. S6.4.3 Trees with active nests - Trees and shrubs contain ing active bird nests must not be harvested, damaged or otherwise interfered w ith during harvesting. Active bird nests are those of native species that conta in eggs, sitting birds, nestlings or are in the process of being constructed . Where there is a possibility that a nest is active, a precautiona ry approac h must be used and the nest must be protected . Trees with nests of birds of prey (raptors ), which are re-used year after year, must be protected whether active or not. Tree markers and/or cutters shall visually inspect trees for active bird nests and identify those trees requiring protecti on. Where the species cannot be identified or is not a species for which an SMP has been prepared , the fol low ing harvest exclusion zone will be established around the nest or nest tree: • For nests greater than 50cm in diameter - a radius of 50m around the nest tree. • For nests 50cm or less in diameter - equal to the height of the tallest tree in proximity to the nest; and 38 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 7: Protection of special forest values Visual resource protection area (VRPA) S7.1 Th is section intentionally removed from protection measures include: the Code Where forest management plans exist, the S7 .2 Cultural heritage management and protection of VRPAs must be in accordance w ith these ; Cultural heritage wi ll be addressed by reference Where forest management plans do not to any applicable cultural heritage management exist, harvesting operations should range requirements, the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait from being temporari ly apparent (i. e. Islander Cultural Heritage Database and apparent for less than 12 months) to not evident. When apparent, the period of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural impact should not exceed one year from the Heritage Register administered by DATS IMA. date of commencement of harvesting of the All proposed harvesting areas must be assessed VRPA. Alterations to the landscape must be minimised and not significantly alter the for cultu ral heritage values and relevant values form , line , colour or texture of the natural protected before operations can begin . landscape. Relevant sources of information for protective VRPAs seen primarily in the foreground , measures are: (vegetation density: open - 500m, sparse - • QPWS Cultura l Heritage Management 100m, dense - 20m) shall be protected by: Manual , and • enforcing a 10m non-clearing zone around • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural viewi ng points , roads and walking tracks ; Heritage Database and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage • limiting canopy reduction to a maxi mum of 50 percent in any 0.2ha; Registe r ad ministered by DATSIMA • breaking down all harvested tree heads S7.3 Landscape and visual protection w ithin safety constraints to a height of less than 1m within 30m of formal view ing points , S7.3.1 General roads and walking trac ks; The objective of th is Schedule is to minimise loss or degradation of visual resources , recreation • applying a machinery exclusion zone of 20m settings and visitor opportunities resulting from around viewing points, roads and walking ti mber harvesting operations. In particular, th is tracks ; schedule establishes standards for protecting • promoting the retention and development of areas that are identified for landscape protection large trees with in the foreg round of viewing and/or visitor use. points, roads and walking tracks by removing upper diameter cutting limits and Where areas are zoned for landscape reta ining the largest diameter live tree , protection and visitor use, both sets of regard less of age or crown score within protection measures must be applied . each hectare of the foreground ; • reducing the vis ual impact of roads and snig S7 .3.2 Landscape protection tracks by limiting the length of track visible Feature protection area (FPA) protection w ithin safety constraints. Th is can be measures inc lude : achieved by chang ing direction on a regu lar • Where forest management plans or FPA (short section or curves) or irregular (i n line management plans exist, the management w ith the form of the landscape) basis, or by and protection of FPAs must be in reta ining vegetation around those sections accordance with these. of the harvesting area ; and • Whe re forest management plans or FPA • not positioning landings within the management plans do not exist, timber foreground of vi ewing points , roads and harvesting must be excluded from gazetted walking tracks . or proposed FPAs; and • A 20m harvesting exclusion zone must be VRPAs seen primarily in the middle ground applied to all gazetted or proposed FPAs. (0.5km - 6km), or background (6km to 16km) shall be protected by: • ensuring harvesting operations are spatially and temporal ly planned for to reduce the amount of disturbance in the forest area at any time ; 39 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate • ensure that harvesting area edges and boundaries conform to the natural landform; • positioning harvesti ng areas to protect visible skylines; and • limiting canopy reduction to a maximum of 50 percent on any one hectare site . S7 .4 Protection of visitor areas Formal visitor node protection measures include : • Apply a 100m harvest exclusion zone w here harvesting adjoins a formal visitor node and around the perimeter of the formal structures (e.g. car parks, shelter sheds , picnic tables etc.). • Restrict log haulage past formal visitor nodes to outside peak visitor use times ; and • Plan harvesting operations outside the exclus ion zones to be visually and audibly inconspicuous at peak use times. Informal visitor node and formal visitor road and trac k (i ncluding forest drives) protection measures inc lude : • As for VRPAs seen primarily in the foreground. • Restrict log haulage along formal visitor roads to outside peak visitor use times . • Plan harvesting operations to be audibly inevident from visited areas during peak use times . No specific protection measures are requ ired for informal tracks or trails. 40 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 8: Forest road and track management SS.1 General locati ng the road on naturally drained or easily drainable features such as ridge This schedule sets out the management tops , benches and gentle slopes; standards to be applied to the planning , construction and maintenance of forest roads and - avoiding areas prone to instability or flooding; trac ks. avoiding the use of box cuts , which are SS.2 Planning difficult to drain , unless overall impact is less than alternative locations ; Roads and tracks must be planned to ensure limiting side cutting and avoiding efficient and economic harvesting and haulage potential instability by restricting practices and with the least overall adverse construction to side slopes less than 30 environmental impact. degrees; and balancing cuts and fills to minimise Planning must provide a road network of a transport or wastage of fill material. standard (Table 14) and density that is the minimum necessary to achieve operational efficiency. Th is must include: • consultation with interested groups incl uding relevant authorities where access is proposed to join a gazetted road ; • a survey of the proposed road alignment at an intensity appropriate to the road standard to prove the alignment, chec k watercourse crossing points and identify construction or environmental issues. Soil erodibility (Schedule 2) should be assessed during the survey. Alternative ly, w here a survey is not conducted , soil erod ibility must be accepted as being high ; and • advice and endorsement from an expert where primary or secondary access roads or where structures, insta bility, drainage design or safety issues are involved. SS.3 Location Roads must be located to best optimise: • protection of forest va lues and exclusion zones; • catchment and watercourse protection - minimise : interference with natural drainage systems; - where possible, the catchment area above the road ; and - the number of watercourse crossings . • road alignment - by minimising the tota l necessary road length, tortuosity and grade ; • forest management - maintain or enhance forest management; • landscape values - fitting roads into the landscape and minimise the alteration of natural features to avoid or minimise adverse visual impact; • minimise earthworks w here possible and facilitate drainage by: 41 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate S8.4 Basic design guidelines Design standards must be the minimum to achieve the required road function and be capable of carrying the anticipated frequency, type and speed of traffic safely while protecti ng environmenta l values. Design standards must be appropriate to site conditions to ensure stability, maintain integ rity of fi ll and cut banks, and provide adequate drainage and sediment control measures. Access class , standards and suggested densities are indicated in Table 14. Table 14 - Basic design gu idelines of access classes Access class Design parameter Primary access Secondary Minor Temporary road access road access road track Life, function, Permanent Permanent Permanent Temporary and density arterial road haul road serving feeder road haul trac k from serving areas areas serving areas landing to roads >15,000ha >5000ha <1000ha (1) Trafficability standard Two lane, Single lane , Single lane, Single lane, all weather all weather dry weather dry weather Formation type (2) A or B AorB A ,B or C Minimal D (3) Pavement surface (4) Gravel Gravel Natural Natu ral Patch gravel Patch gravel Pavement width (4) 6m 4m 4m <4m Shoulder w idth 1.0-1 .2m 0.6-1.2m passing bays may be Nil required . Radius of curves Vertical and horizontal radius to must provide haul trucks with safety and vi sibility at the design travel speed Clearinq width (5) 1 metre beyond earthworks plus safety considerations Optimal grade (6) 7 degrees 7 degrees 9 degrees 8 degrees Notes for table 14 • ensure any edge berm is breached at water bar spacings to permit drainage; (1) Haul track density must be appropriate to ensure efficient and economic harvesting • consider the use of inverts or roll-over and haulage practices. In general , harvesting water bars for cross drainage during use road access will entail construction of or where the track has to remain temporary tracks that may serve larger trafficable; and areas, as show n in Table 14. • use water bars only w here the track is no longer required . (2) Formation types and design features are illustrated in Diagram 7. (4) Pavement width and surface must be matched to road use. Gravel is necessary to (3) Haul tracks generally use a flat-bladed ensure traction , avoid rutting and to mainta in formation. These must be located and effective drainage . aligned to involve the absolute minimum in clearing and earthworks to provide for practical use and safety. Avoid box cuts unless absolutely necessary. Formation should avoid creation of an edge berm. Location must use natural features to facilitate natural drainage. Wet spots in the track surface must not be bypassed but be either drained , raised or corded. Su rface drainage must maximise the use of natural drainage and: 42 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate (5) Clearing width may be extended to avoid a safety risk. Extend by the minimum Causeways and fords are suitable for crossings necessary to correct the risk or cons ider that are used infrequently, where usage occurs alternatives such as restricting traffic to "one during periods of low flow or w here reg ular way". flooding prevents economic or effective bridge construction. Sites must be naturally stable or (6) Grades - Steeper grades may be permitted engineered to provide function and environmental where construction results in less protection. disturbance and can be safely used. Gravel may be needed to access steeper slopes. The cross ing must be installed at the existing bed level height so as not to impede water flow and (7) Drainage must be in accord w ith Schedule 9. movement of aquatic species and at the same upstream-dow n-stream gradient as the S8.5 Design of watercourse crossings watercourse. 6 Existi ng crossings must be used provided they Approaches must be gravelled or otherwi se are capable of accommodating the traffic and are stabilised to minimise turbidity in wet crossings. stable, safe and pose no envi ronmental threat. Temporary crossings must be minimised. Proposed or upgraded crossings on haul roads Crossings must not involve earth fi ll but may be must be capable of accommodating the traffic gravelled or cordu royed to bed level height. Use and watercourse flows, and be safe, stable, and a temporary culvert if the cross ing will be used not pose an environ mental threat. Crossing sites when water is flowing , and use would otherwise must be identified and located before create a th reat to water quality. construction commences. A tempo rary culvert is a drainage structure that Crossings must be sited in straight sections of allows water to be channelled under or across the watercourse w here practicable with low and the road and is temporary in natu re and is stable bank formations where approaches will removed and stabilised. cause minimal disturbance (Diagram 8). Al ign crossings , as close as practica l, at right ang les to the water flow. Avoid deeply box cut approach slopes and design drainage to divert road water to stable vegetated areas so it can be fi ltered prior to entry to the waterc ourse (See Schedule 3). Design and location must be consistent with watercourse protection (Schedule 3) and the fol low ing: Bridges and culverts are the preferred method of crossing permanent or intermittent watercourses . These must be designed and engineered to have structural integrity and must: • be sized to cause minimal impedance to flow and, at minimum, conta in a 1 in 5 peak flow event and w ithstand a 1 in 1O peak flow w ith minimal structural damage including provision for overflow to carry flood flows; • provide for protection and stability of abutments , bed and adjacent banks; • prevent any soil or gravel fill on the deck from fa lling into the watercourse; • prevent water from ponding on the upstream side of the crossing during normal low-flow events; • prevent any water from ponding on the bridge; and 6 These requirements conform to the req uirements of the Code for • provide for any necessary passage of fish self-assessable development: temporary waterway barrier works or other aquatic life . ('NWBW02) 43 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate Diagram 7 - Road formation types and design features Road formation types and design features Type Side Shoulder drainage (7) Pavement Cleari ng line A Clear 1 metre past earthworks and safety margin Crowned formation Cross fall 1-3 degrees B -- -- -- - --- Crowned side cut formation Cross fall 1-3 degrees . Use natural , side and cross drainage to manage water C -- -- --- Set cut and fill batters at stable slope. Bench cut batter or use a catch Outsloped formation drain above the 1-3 degrees cross fall cut if batter is >3 metres in height D • "Flat bladed" track natural or side drainage 44 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Diagram 8 - Watercourse crossing Minimal d1stur of banks and vegetation except on crossing alignment S8.6 Construction Areas cleared beyond the earthworks must retain the maximum possible amount of Construction methods and standards shall reflect topsoil/ground cover to maintain stability. best practice . They must include the following: Trees or other products should be salvaged • Al l persons involved in road construction from the alignment wherever possible. and maintenance must be properly trained in the techniques and precautions required Clearing waste (organic , soil or roc k) should to prevent soil erosion and water pollution. be used , where possible, to stabili se earth banks. It should not be included in the road • Equipment must be selected on the basis of fill , pushed into exclu sion zones or placed efficiency and the ability to minimi se soil where it w ill damage the forest. disturbance. Excavators are preferred for major earthworks and watercourse crossing Topsoi l that is stripped must be stockpiled construction. for use in stabilisation and rehabi litation ; Waste and hazardous substance Earthworks must be kept to a minimum in management must conform to Schedule 17; line with th e long-term road stability and efficient future maintenance. Where Pests , weeds and disease management practical, cuts and fills should be balanced must conform to Schedule 15; along the road to minimise costs and to use Construction of primary and secondary the earth within the road alignment. access roads must be scheduled for the Batters fo r earthworks must be designed to drier periods of the year to: be no steeper than the in-situ soil stability avoid accelerated soil loss or allows and take into account the dip angle of degradation of water quality; the rock. Where this is not possible, cut allow for consolidation; and batters must be benched to reduce the take advantage of adequate soil exposed vertical face . Batters must be moisture for soil working and graded to control erosion, aid establishment compaction . of vegetation and to minimise visual impact. Construction of primary and seconda ry Batters must be stabilised during and roads must be undertaken in planned stages follow ing construction, and before the to ensure that the area of disturbance is removal of machinery, by: minimised at any one time and then constructing catch drains above the cut progressively stabilised . batter; Clearing , where permitted, must be sloping or stepping of batters; undertaken in stages to minimise the total providing flumes or other protection on area of exposed soil at any one time. Debris drain outlets on fill banks; and should be retained for temporary using surface covers or revegetation . stabilisation. Width must be the minimum to permit efficient construction, allow the road surface to dry, and to provide an appropriate line of sight. The maximum clearing width may be extended to eliminate any safety hazards. 45 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Quarries and borrow pits should w here debris and temporary structures are possible be sited to avoid adverse visual re moved unless removal poses a impact and be: greater risk, and ; minimu m in number and size ; bed and banks are stabilised after constructed with stable batters and construction . drained and maintained during use ; and • Pavement materials and surfacing must stabilised and rehabil itated after use. provide a stable, load bearing and smooth For primary and secondary roads , surface that will provide for overland flow compaction by other than gravel or timber and shed water. Suitable , on-site or truc ks must be used to provide adequate imported, materials consisting of a mi xture strength to load bearing sections and of graded stone and clay binder must be prevent rutting and subsequent damage placed and compacted. Thickness depends during use. Surface gravel must be on material quality, load bearing smoothed and compacted to create a water- requ irements and the size of the largest shedding and lasting pavement. particle. As a guide, depth should be approximately 1.5 to 2 times the size of the Roads and tracks are to be provided with largest particle to provide a smooth running adequate drainage in conformity w ith surface. Patch gravelling should be done as Schedule 9, to protect the road , avoid soil necessary to maintain function and/or avoid erosion and minimise watercourse road surface damage . sedimentation. Wherever practical , drainage should be installed in advance of other • Signs should be erected as necessary. construction to keep the works as dry as Signs, where used, should conform to the possible. During construction all disturbed QPW S Sign Manual and , as appropriate, areas must be adequately drained or comply with either the Manual of Uniform stabilised when there is a reasonable Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the expectation of an extended period of heavy Traffic and Road Use Manual (TRU M) rainfall , storm, cyclone or other event. and/or TC Signs 7. Drainage and stabilisation measures may include: S8.7 Reopening of access stockpiling loose materials where they Re-opening of access must restore the road , can be protected from erosion; drainage systems and watercourse crossings to draining the surface using cross fa ll and Code standards, including stabilisation controlling surface run off by using requirements. Washouts or sites of potential natural drainage patterns , table and instability must be stabilised and protected. side drains, cu lverts, inverts or water bars ; and S8.8 Temporary closure discharging waters on stable areas , undisturbed vegetation or a hardened Where roads and trac ks are temporarily closed , site/structure and not directly into they must be stabilised , drained and left to watercourses or on exposed soil or fill revegetate to control soil erosion without the slopes. need for maintenance. • Watercourse crossing construction must be managed to minimise impacts to water quality and disturbance of watercourse bed and banks. Approaches to crossings must provide for drainage diversion on to vegetation and sediment traps so that unfiltered run off cannot flow directly into watercourses. Construction must ensure that: clearing, where required and approved, is confined to the alignment, and trees are fe lled away from the watercourse; disturbance to bed and banks is 7 The TC signs are a collection of non-standard traffic minimised; control (TC) signs that have been "officially approved" (as required by the Transport Operations (Road Use spoil is not pushed into the watercourse ; Management Act 1995)). These signs have been designed machinery is not used in the for specialised use and designed to comply with the watercourse unless essentia l, and then guidelines set out in the traffic and road use management confined within the alignment. (TRUM) manual and the manual for uniform and traffic Excavators are preferred; control devices (M UTCD). These are located at: http://www tmr.qld qov auH link.aspx? id-B24AA9D55529 4A 16B9E93B90AB73348B& z=z. 46 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S8.9 Maintenance SB.10 Decommissioning Access roads and tracks must be maintained to Unless formally advised otherwise, roads that are ensure a stable and good running surface , no longer requ ired for timber extraction and forest effective drainage and safe use . Road surfaces, management must be stabilised, rehabilitated , crossings and drainage systems must be permanently closed (where applicable}, inspected sufficiently to ensure that they are decommissioned and allowed to regenerate as functional , safe and in a stable state. All drains follows: must be inspected thoroughly and repaired • Recovery of materials is permitted provided it before the onset of the wet season and during does not resu lt in material or serious and after periods of heavy ra infall. environmental harm. Removal must not adversely impact on water quality and Maintenance techn iques must: disturbed areas must be drained and • return usable material to the pavement and stabilised. avoid lowering the road surface in a way that • Watercourse crossings must be removed impedes surface drainage or concentrates unless thei r presence does not pose a threat flow along the road edge ; and/or removal will create greater damage • restore the road profile and smooth the road than retention. surface using compaction to strengthen, seal • Crossing materials used for te mpora ry and preserve pavement life ; access must be removed . • restore drainage systems including any • Bed and bank contours must be re instated erosion control devices ; and stabilised . • ensure water can freely drain from the • Approaches must be drained and stabilised . surface and is not blocked by vegetation or a berm unless the berm is used as part of the • Where beneficial in controlling accelerated drainage system; erosion, road surfaces must be levelled to avoid concentrations of water on or along the • minimise or avoid disturbance to soils surface. Provide pronounced outslope , water adjacent to the road ; bars or other cross drainage structures and • avoid deposition of spoil or sediment into prepare surface to stabilise it against watercou rses; erosion, spread debris and encourage revegetation , naturally or artificia lly, without • manage road-side vegetation to maintain the need for maintenance. safety and road-edge bank stability; • Whe re barriers are to be instal led to prevent • employ hazard warning devices while access to permanently closed roads , they maintenance operations are in progress. must be placed in a safe and practical location . These roads are to be identified in the OHP. 47 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 9: Forest road and track drainage S9 .1 General Drainage systems will consist of various combinations of: Roads and tracks must be provided with an effective dra inage system, to meet normal rainfa ll • catch drains to intercept and divert water from events, and to maintain the load bearing capacity batters or the road ; of the pavement, minimise soil erosion from • a road profile, crowned , outsloped or either the pavement or drains, and minimise insloped, that sheds water from the surface; sedimentation of watercourses . Without accelerating soil erosion , an effective drainage • a drain network that takes shed and system will: intercepted water away from the roadway and may include a system of table, turnout and • stop water from adjacent areas from flowi ng cross drains; on to, or saturati ng , the pavement; • breaches where berms prevent water • shed surface water from the pavement; and shedd ing from the road ; and • collect surface and subsurface waters and • sediment traps or vegetated areas where divert th is away from the road . water will decelerate and deposit sediment (Diagram 9). Diagram 9 - The basic road drainage system for A, B and C type formations. ,I /4 urnout 1 drain .,,. ✓ Culvert outfall protected J / 48 Cod e of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate S9.2 Basic pri nciples • Drains suscepti ble to scour because of soil type, grade , water volume or ve locity must be All timber roads , tracks or snig tracks must use natural drainage where present, otherwise suitably armoured using vegetation , roc k or appropriate drainage must be constructed and other materials. maintained in an effective state during and after • Drainage design should ensure flow without the completion of use. Th is can be achieved by scour (as per S9.3). applying the foll owi ng : • Drainage , w here required , is constructed and • Locate dra ins at critical locations such as : spaced in accordance with Table 15. significant changes in slope or direction • Construct additional drains, where required , (a change of two grades of slope , as per in addition to spacing requirements . Table 15); points of concentration of overland flow (refer also S3. 8); and 1Orn before any watercourse crossing or j unction with another track or landing , or at the closest practi cal point where water can be diverted (refer also S10.6). • Drainage systems must provide protecti on for normal rainfa ll events . Variations to Table 15 may be appropriate in situations where the drainage system design is not sufficiently robust to accommodate normal flow events without damage, or this w ill result in less overall environmental impact. • Location and outflow from drains must be carefully planned to avoid: causing accelerated erosion of adjacent land or watercourses because of inappropriate redirection of concentrated and increased water flow and velocity; accelerated erosion of unprotected fil l banks. • Drain profile must be consistent with soil type and the avoidance of erosion . Flat bottomed drains should be used w here erodibility is high . Table 15(11 - Guide to cross and turnout drain spacing (metres)(5l Grade Cross Soil erodibility rating ,., by regions 1' 1 (4) drain offset Degrees Degrees Low Moderate High C SC w C SC w C SC w <3 Up to 30 150 175 200 110 145 175 60 70 100 3-5.9 Up to 30 110 140 160 70 100 120 40 50 60 6-7.9 Up to 20 80 100 120 50 65 75 30 35 40 8-10.9 Up to 20 50 60 75 35 40 50 20 20 25 11 -14.9 Up to 10 30 35 40 20 25 30 15 20 20 15+ Upto 5 20 20 20 15 15 15 15 15 15 Table 15 Notes (1) Table 15 is designed to provide effective drainage requirements. However, specific conditions should be taken into account to ensure nonnal rainfall events can be effectively managed. (2) If erodibility is unknown seek expert advice or use high erodibility. (3) C = Coastal region ; SC= Sub-coastal region ; W = Western region - see Diagram 10 - Soil Erodibility Reg ions. (4) Spacings for other combinations of grades can be detennined from the full spac ing table in Native Forest Soil Protection (5) Drain spacing and critical locations can be met from any drainage type or combination . • Drainage mu st discharge on to stable areas of not directly into watercourses or onto exposed undisturbed vegetation , a stable site, into soil or fil l slopes. Exposed soil or fi ll banks debris or an energy dissipating structure and must be appropriately protected by 49 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate vegetation , debris, flumes or other erosion Berms along the edge of the track should be control structures. breached at the set drainage spacing intervals to • Drainage, at other than at a watercourse allow water to drain from the road where suitable crossing , must not be discharged within the discharge cond itions are available. distance from WPZ specified in Schedule 3 - Watercourse protection : Where suitable discharge is not available alternatives should be applied and documented. landing and snig trac k drainage - 1Orn road drainage - 20m S9.3.3 Table drains - Ta ble drains are drains • Discharge should aim to deposit suspended at the side of and parallel to the road to catch and sediment before ru noff enters a watercourse. convey runoff water. Table drains must: • Outlets shou ld disperse water flow to lower • have a fla t bottomed , 'v'-shaped or dished velocity. Sediment traps or devices should be profile ; provided where necessary. • be built, where possible, at least 300mm below the level of the top of th e formation at S9 .3 Drainage elements the outer edge of the shoulder; S9 .3.1 Catch drains or diversion banks - • set, w here possible, at a gradient of 1 to 3 Catch drains and divers ion banks are drains degrees to guarantee flow w ithout scour. placed above cut batters to divert overland flow Where steeper grades or erodible soils are away from the road . Such drains should be gently unavoidable, consideration should be given graded and protected against scouring . to providing a flat profile , vegetating or lining the drain to prevent scour; and They should be installed w here: • where table drains pass throug h box cutting • water may flow onto the road ; and/or and cannot be drained by turnout drains , • unacceptable erosion of the road cutting steps must be placed at dra inage spacing surface is likely. inte rvals to reduce drain gradient and dissipate water flow energy safely. S9.3.2 Road profile - Road pavements should be shaped to shed surface water to either both or one side of the road. The profile may involve a crowned formation, be outsloped or insloped. The crossfall grade should be in the order of 1 to 3 degrees to shed water w ithout causing erosion of the surface. The profile should be maintai ned by grading and compaction and ensure that edge berms or shoulder vegetation does not impede the shedding of water or cause longitudinal scour of the road surface . On flat bladed-tracks, maximum use should be made of natural cross fall or drainage. The surface should be maintained to assist cross drainage. 50 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate Diagram 10 - Soil Erodibility Regions .. __ -·- a.,ora1-,nrc:.R~ _ _ ..,..1"'1.,.1 C •Cot:SUIIAttn SC •u~ .... W ·-- ,I I ' , ,--,.~-.---...,.-~,,..~......-~~.n.~411 I 0 100 - :ZOO ,00 400 I I I II I I I II I I II II I I II I 51 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate S9.3.4 Turnout drains -Turnout drains divert Culverts - Culverts are pipe or box structures water from table drains away from the road . They that allow water to be channelled under the road must be built to ensure that: from one side to the other. • in the absence of natural drainage, drains are spaced in accordance with Table 15; In addition to the requirements for cross drains , the construction of culverts should ensure that: • the table drain is bloc ked at its j unction with the turnout drain to ensure water does not • any pipes or box culverts are installed to bypass the turnout drain; manufacturer specifications with attention to depth of fi ll (See also Schedule 8. 2); • drain outfl ows have a fal l of 1 to 3 degrees, with a maximum 5 degrees , using a curved • pipes must be set to have a fall of 1 to 3 alignment as necessary, to keep th e flow to a deg rees, be surrounded by compacted fil l non-erosive velocity; and have a cutoff wall to prevent erosion under the pipes (Diagram 11 ); • drains have a 'v' shaped or flat bottomed profile. Flat bottomed profi les should be used • cu lvert inlets and outlets are adequately where soils are erodible. Drain outflow must protected to minimise erosion from flow disperse water on to stable ground or entering or discharging from the drain. Head vegetation ; and and w ing walls must be constructed with concrete , logs or stone pitching . Outflows • drains do not directly enter watercourse must be provided with a scour pad of protection zones but are diverted into concrete , stone or gabions; surrounding vegetation in accordance w ith distances specified under watercourse • where culverts flow out over fi ll , adequate protection in Schedule 3 and 9.2 . protection in the form of a fl ume, drop or hardened energy dissipating structure must Where higher grades are unavoidable, the drain be provided to ensure that water does not should be suitably protected against scour. erode the fi ll; and • cu lverts have sediment traps using a sump S9.3.5 Cross drains - Cross drains must allow or structure, e.g. logs or rock, to trap and surface or table drain water to pass under or slow water and permit settlement of across the road pavement. Options incl ude sediment. culverts, inverts and cross banks. In the absence of natural drainage , these must be built to ensure: • cross drains are spaced in accordance with Table 15; • water does not bypass the drain ; • cross drain offset angle relative to the road direction as per Table 15; • cross drain outflows (tail) have a fall of 1 to 3 degrees, with a maximum 5 degrees, using a curved alignment as necessary , to keep the flow to a non-erosive velocity; • inverts and cross banks have a 'v' shaped or flat bottomed profile. Flat bottomed profiles should be used where soils are erodible. • drain outfl ow must disperse water on to stable ground or vegetation; and • cross drains do not directly enter watercou rse protection zones but are diverted into surrounding vegetation in accordance with distances specified under watercou rse protection in Schedules 3 and 9.2. 52 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate Diagram 11 -Typical pipe culvert Inverts - Inverts are trafficable depressions in the road surface that intercept surface water and convey it across the road (Diagram 12). They are most suitable on lower grades (slopes ). Inverts are built by excavating material from the road to form the drain. In some cases this material may be spread on the road surface down slope of the drain itself. In addition to the requirements for cross drains , the construction of inverts should ensure that: • size is adequate to match fl ow requirements ; and • the base of the depression is protected with roc k if the wetness of the substrate makes thi s necessary. 53 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Diagram 12 - Inverts Invert (flat base) ,,, - Size to match catch and trafflcability ne Cross banks - Cross banks are banks placed across the road surface to direct water ac ross the road surface and reduce erosion by minimising the concentration of water along the road pavement and reducing runoff ve locity. In addition to the requ irements for cross drains (S9.3.5): (i) Rollover cross banks are used where the road or track is intended to be trafficable. They are constructed by excavation and/or deposition of material to create a long and gently sloped cross bank (Diagram 13). Excavation should not expose erodible subsoils. 54 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate Diagram 13 - Rollover cross bank example Rollove, cross bank (cross-sect;on) ~~ Depth 30cm below ground level Space according to the drainage table (i i) Water bars ('w hoa boys') are steep cross banks that are used on roads and tracks that are not required to be easily traffic able . They are primarily erosion control structures best used to stabilise surfaces on the completion of use. Diagram 14 - Water bar example Offset water bar to road alignment Water bars operate by slow ing and diverting water from tracks to a stable outlet w ithout water return ing to the track down slope (Diagram 14). 55 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Water bars may be angled. From a line at right angles to the track's alignment, offset the water bar to the angle indicated in Table 15 to allow flow, w ithout scour, towards the outlet (Diagram 15). Diagram 15- Water bar offset angle Water Bar Offset Angle Water bars are generally constructed by settling. Mound height must be matched to the excavating a flat-bottomed ditch using a shal low soil type , terrain and management need to cut to avoid exposing erodible subsoils. On stable maintain effectiveness as fo llows: soils th is is excavated from the up slope side of • smaller mounds are acceptable where: the mound . On unstable soils the excavation can soils naturally pack or consolidate well be on the down hill side or, alternatively, import and on low slope situations ; or soil to avoid excavation . Construction can involve - they assist natu ra l drainage; a push along the road to excavate and build the mound before sweeping an outlet. • larger mounds (exceeding 50cm) may be required w here: Alternatively, a preferred practice is to sweep the the soil is loose and will not read ily outlet towards the road and deposit the spoil on consoli date; or the road surface before sweeping and cutting - slopes are steeper; or along the road to complete the mound . more intensive use requ ires a higher water bar. The water bar should have an unconsolidated height of up to 50cm above the trac k surface (Diagram 16) to allow for an effective barrier after 56 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate Diagram 16 - Example of a typical water bar height and depth Typical Water Bar Height and Depth Original surface Use higher mound height on steeper slopes Mounds are best compacted during construction S9.4 Silt traps by walking the machine over the unconsolidated Silt tra ps must be provided on turnout and cross earth. drains w here vegetated outlets are not available and suitable. The standard and permanency of Ensure that water will flow to the outlet, that the such traps should reflect the road class with more outlet is stable and disperses water to vegetated elaborate and permanent structures or devices ground , and that outflow wi ll not return to the being placed on the major classes of roads (A, B trac k downslope. and C type formations). Where water bars are used for road closure, tree The options inc lude: heads and/or other obstacles should be pulled over the top of the mound where there is a risk of • Inlet su mp - a sump can be provided on the cattle trampling . inlet of culverts to catch sediment. This must be periodically cleaned to keep it operative. Note: Where water bars are used to control • Outlet device - the aim is provide a structure points of concentration of overland flow, the or device that will temporarily catch and water bar must not be constructed in or disturb reta rd water causing sediment to deposit. the water-crossing point. A mound must be built The options include: down-slope of the crossing point to ensure water rock piles ; cannot flow down the road. - ti mber barrier; mesh sediment fence ; and straw bales or debris. For unformed roads it may be appropriate to use natural drainage and use vegetated areas as silt traps. 57 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S9.5 Stabilisation of washouts Washouts on roads are a source of significant sediment and can cause the road to become unsafe or impassable. It is fundamenta lly important that corrective action is take n as early as possible to reduce both the adverse impact and the scale and cost of corrective action. Mi nor washouts can often be simply corrected by compacted earthen fil l and appropriately drained . Where major washouts cannot be circumvented by existing alternative access, the following principles should be applied : • lining or armouring the head to stop headward advance ; and • lining or armouring the base of the washout below the head to prevent the washout base from deepening and causing further collapse . Where proposed remed ial works vary from the above, expert advice must be sought. New road construction to circumvent washouts must be approved . Remediation may be achieved by: • Investigating the cause of the washout and seeking to correct this rather than try to armour the washout face . Usually thi s w ill involve redirection of th e source of the water above the washout. This may involve a diversion drain or the installation of more cross drainage. After dealing with the cause of the washout the road or track surface must be re instated. • Correcting the drainage problem as described above , then protecting the washout head from further gullying action . For further advice and guidance consu lt IECA 2008, Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control. (I nternational Erosion Control Association (Austra lasia), Picton , NSW). 58 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate

Schedule 1O: Timber harvesting practice S10.1 General based on an analysis of safety, efficiency and environmental ris k in the particular The schedule sets out the minimum management circumstances , including anticipated weather and requ irements for timber harvesti ng using ground ground conditions that prevai l. based -extraction techniques. Equipment - All equipment used in all harvesti ng S10.2 Planning operations including fell ing, snigging , loading and Harvesting must be planned to be safe and hauling , must have an effective spark arresting efficient with minimum loss of productive area exhaust system. and acceptable environ mental impacts . Harvesting approach - The extraction system must use uphill snigging unless downhill snigging is the only safe , practical and least impact option (Diagram 17). The approach adopted must be Diagram 17 - Uphill and downhill extraction Uphill (away from watercourses) and Downhill Extraction Systems Total impact - Planning must optimise efficiency • minimise the total area removed from and minimise total impact by balancing the production as a result of disturbance on impact of snig track length against landing landings (S10 .6), and major and minor snig numbers and locations and haulage road/trac k trac ks (S10.4); and length and haulage . • minimise the number of watercourse crossings and loc ate the m w here they have Planning must seek to: the least environmental impact (Schedule 3). • use existing snig tracks, landings and roads where practical, relevant to machinery used and where consistent with Code standards; 59 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S10.3 Felling and crosscutting S10 .4 Snig tracks Felling may be carried out by using either a Snig tracks must be designed and located to chainsaw or by a tree-fell ing machine. Felling optimise safety and efficiency and to minimise must only be carried out by accredited operators. loss of productive area, earthworks and soil disturbance. The snig track network must consist Felling practices must control the manner in of the minimum necessary length and intensity of which trees are felled to faci litate: major and minor tracks . Major and minor snig • recove ry by keeping the stump height as low tracks must be located and constructed as practical to maximise merchantable according to specifications detailed in Table 16. volume and to avoid stem breakage during felling , w hile giving due regard to safety; • extraction by integrating w ith and assisting the snigging operation to minimise the extent of snig tracks and/or the amount of mineral soil exposure or compaction including tracked machine felling; • biodiversity protection by avoiding damage or disturbance to exclusion areas or species, special management zones and habitat trees , (refer also S6.3.6); • watercou rse protection by complyi ng with the watercourse protection requirements - Schedule 3; and • forest productivity by minimising direct damage to retained crop or regeneration and by not accumulating excessive debris around the base of identified retained or habitat trees (refer also S6 .3.6). 60 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate Table 16 - Major an d Mi nor Snig Track Specifications Aspect Major Snig Track Minor Snig Track Function Arterial route serving an area and subject Feeder route servi ng major snig tracks and to multiple passes (> 10), substantial use subject to limited passes (<10), minor use impact and likely to be required for future impact and not likely to be required for futu re harvestina harvesti na Survey Best identified and/or marked prior to the Best identified after trees are fe lled commence ment of harvesting . Location Best on ridge or spur line w here drainage Best on ridge or spur line to provide an can be provided . Avoid exclusion areas optimal path from stump to major track. Avoid and observe watercourse protecti on exclusion areas and observe watercourse guidelines protecti on. Uphill snigging where practicable. Uphill snigging where practicable. Width Width not to exceed 4m Width not to exceed 4m Alignment .. Must provide for: minimal necessary length ; radius of curves that minimise damage .. Must provide for; minimal necessary length; radius of curves that minimise damage to . to retained trees ; periodic changes in direction to deflect . retained crop trees ; periodic changes in direction to deflect Grade water from the trac k; and • natural cross drainage . Grade must be the minimum necessary for . water from the track; and natural cross drainage. Grade must be the minimum necessa ry for (Refer Table safe working and minimum impact. safe worki ng and minimum impact. 10 S4.1 for slope limits.) Watercourse Minimise the necessa ry number. Major Minimise the necessary number. Major crossings crossings must be located as per crossings must be located as per Schedule 3.

Schedule 3. Provide temporary culverts if Provide temporary culverts if water is flowing water is fl owi ng Clea ri ng Minimum to achieve function . Mi nimise Minimum to achieve function. Fell or trample pushi ng and protect retained trees . only - no pushing. Protect retained trees. Earthworks Formation may be required Formation is not generally required. and formation Earthworks must be the minimum for Use walk-over practice w here possibl e. safety and effici ency. Side cuts only as required for safety. Side cuts minimised. No side cutting Box cuts prohibited. where side slopes exceed 25 degrees. Box cuts to be avoided if possible. Track surface Reta in the maxi mum level of surface Absolute minimum removal of surface vegetation and debris consistent with vegetation, litter or topsoil by using walk-over safety and function. Consider cordi ng practices . susceptible portions of the tracks . Drainage . Provide natural or cross fall drainage Use natural cross fall or Use and maintain natural drainage with surface vegetation/l itte r protection. Side cuts . • Provide a cross fall 1-3 degrees Construct drainage where natural or crossfall drainage is not in accordance must be outsloped 1-3 deg rees . Construct drainage w here natural or crossfall dra inage is not in accordance with Sc hedule 9 w ith Schedule 9 Table 15 spacings. Table 15 spacings. 61 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S10.5 Snigging • not snig along the bed of any watercou rse; Snigging machinery must be matched to the • not snig along any cattle pad likely to harvesting task and forest conditions . Preferred concentrate water flow; equipment includes: • comply w ith the watercourse protection • crawler tractors equipped w ith wide tracks measures (Schedu le 3); and and integral arch winches ; • comply w ith operational restrictions • rubber-tyred skidders , equipped w ith w ide (Schedule 18). tyres and a grapple or w inch; Snig track drainage must be effectively • excavator-based harvesters ; and maintained during snigging by surface smoothing • forwarders . and berm removal. Because skidders generally cause less soil Also apply temporary stabilisation measures to disturbance , they are preferred on slopes below disturbed areas w hen: 19 degrees particularly w here erodibility is high . • machinery is removed from sites or Crawler tractors should be used on steeper operations that have ceased fo r more than slopes for safety reasons. two weeks; All snigging equipment must: • there is a likel ihood of an exte nded or high intensity rainfall event; and/or • be capable of lifting one end of the log clear of the ground w hile snigg ing ; and • there is an occurrence or likelihood of soil loss due to snigging (refer also S10 .8). • where equipped with a blade, have a blade type that is appropriate to the task. On completion , tracks must be naturally or artific ially stabilised and drained to avoid Machine operators must be trained and accelerated soil erosion , and/or deg radation of competent in machine use and snigging practice. water quality. Stabilise and, as necessary, drain snig tracks within two weeks of completion of Snigg ing practice must optimise efficiency and trac k use. minimise soil disturbance and water poll ution. Snigg ing must minimise disturbance to remaining Other requirements include: vegetation except w here ground disturbance is silvicultura lly necessary. • Temporary watercourse crossings are to be removed and rehabilitated; The snigging approach must be systematic to • Track surfaces are best smoothed to restore minimise the number and duration of trac ks in overland flow and covered with as much use , and where possible, progress the snigging debris as is possible; face in an uphill section so that the harvested • Where practical and w here it will not areas are full y stabilised and drained before exacerbate damage or disturbance, edge areas above are disturbed . Uphill snigging must be used where practicable (see S10.2). berms, ruts or incisions should be smoothed to avoid confinement or acceleration of water along the trac k w ithout increasing the trac k Machines must be operated to minimise the area width ; disturbed , the intensity of soil disturbance, damage to designated retained trees and • Place as much debris as is practical on the essential regeneration . Operators of snigging trac k surface to provide surface cover; machines must: • Where seriously rutted (ruts exceed 30cm in • control speed; depth and continue for 10m or more) restore the track profile by bac kfil li ng or the • use walk-over techniques w herever possible to maxi mise ground cover retention and placement of harvesti ng debris; minimise soil disturbance and mineral soil exposure ; • keep the blade raised while travelling ; • use reversing, log lifting or other techniques to minimise unnecessary ground disturbance including "trac ked machine screw ing"; • use winches, w here appropriate, to pull logs from stumps where this will reduce trac k length or soil disturbance; • periodically alter the running track to minimise rutting or disturbance; 62 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate • Construct cross drains only w here Landin9. Size between Landings necessary. Systematically consider (m ') (m) progressive sections of the track over the 600 200 distance specified for cross drainage 900 300 spacing. At each potential drain location , 1000 350 cross drains must only be constructed if: 1200 400 - The track surface is likely to erode 1500 500 because surface cutting, scalping or 1800 600 disturbance has exposed or loosened the soil over the spacing distance and Where Forest Products proposes alternatives to existing debris, vegetation or living roots Table 17 to achieve better environmental systems will not provide adequate outcomes, approval from QPWS is required . surface cover and binding . - Water w ill not drain naturally from the Location track with in the specified distance Landing sites must be located and used under bec ause of the: the followi ng conditions : * absence of natural cross drainage; • Road sides can be used for log loading * absence of constructed cross fall; where this is safe, practic al, can be drained * absence of changes in track and w ill cause less damage than the direction that will effectively deflect construction of a landing . Use must maintain water; and road function and drainage. * presence of berms or ruts that wi ll • Existing landings must be used where th is concentrate and confine water to the wi ll result in less overall environmental track. impact than the construction of new landings . • New landings must only be constructed Cross drainage w ill generally take the form of where essential and be located to optimise water bars but can also use inverts or other resource access and snig and haul suitable structures. These must be constructed in distances . accordance with Schedule 9 Forest Road and Track Drainage . • Landings are best located: on stable, eas ily drained ridges or slopes Use of debris may be permitted in lieu of water not exceeding six degrees ; bars where this is abundant and provided the outside areas exc luded from harvesting density, placeme nt and ground contact w ill with drainage the presc ribed distance achieve a result equivalent to a water bar. from Watercourse Protection Zones (Schedule 3); and S10.6 Landings so that snig tracks can approach landings from below or provide for Harvest planning must ensure the best diversion drainage w here snig tracks environmental and visual outcomes arising from must approach from above. the construction of the required landings and associated reading. Construction Landing construction must ensure that: Size and spacing The size and nu mber of landings must: • landings are constructed in dry weather when soils are not wet or saturated; • provide for efficient and economic harvesti ng and haulage practices • clearing is confined to the landing area; • provide for the safe and efficient storage, • debris is stacked , dispersed or disposed of: processing and loading of logs ; - without damage to trees marked or otherwise identified for retention within • provide for the quantity, length and type of the allowable boundary area; or products being handled; - to prevent a fi re hazard for retained • be balanced to minimise the total area of trees; clearing, including associated roading . • topsoil disturbance is minimi sed; The re lationship between landing size and • where topsoil is pushed up with debris, it distance between landings should be guided by must be positioned to allow machine access the spacings given in Tab le 17. for respreading on completion of use; • earthworks are a minimum to that necessary to ach ieve a practical working area and avoid Table 17 - The relationship between landing size entry of soil or debris into exclusion areas; and distance between landings • cut and fi ll batters are set at a stable angle Maximum I Minimum Distance and protected with debris; and 63 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate • runoff is managed by optimising natural • maintain road access for essential traffic ; drainage, and/or by constructing cross fall or • avoid machinery impacts outside the landing diversion drainage. area ; Use • conform to operational restrictions in Operation of the landing must manage logs and Schedule 18; debris to minimise damage to all trees marked or • maintain an effective level of area stability otherwi se identified for retention . and drainage, • manage debris to minimise a fi re hazard; and Damage to retained stems within the landing area shall not be considered as damage provided • stabilise and drain the area immediately that the cleared area is smaller than the upon cessation or completion of use . permissible landing size. S10 .8 Haulage Landings must not be bladed off to keep them operational. Haulage of timber must be safe and environmentally respons ible. Excess bark must be used in track or landing stabilisation. Haulage must comply w ith operational restrictions in Schedule 18. Stabil isation on completion of use All landings must be stabilised within two weeks Road drainage must be: of completion of use by: • maintained in an effective state during use • removing all rubbish or waste materials; and any damage caused by the haulage operation must be repaired immediately; • providing surface drainage to prevent ponding or soil erosion including necessary • temporarily stabilised w hen: surface smoothing, cross fall drainage, machinery is removed from the site; or removal of berms or construction of diversion extended or high intensity rainfall is drains ; likely; or • constructing water bars on tracks , w here - accelerated soil loss due to wet weather necessary, to divert water flow ing onto or has occurred or is likely to occur; from the landing into surrounding vegetation; • restored and stabilised with in two weeks of care should be taken to ensure that the completion of use (refer also S10 .5). drains do not divert water back onto the landing at some other point (refer also S9.2); • spreading debris and associated topsoil mounds arising from construction of the landing , and debris from processing ; and • spreading any stockpiled topsoi l evenly over the disturbed area. S10.7 Loading Loading of timber products must only occur at landings and must use equipment and techniques that are safe and minimise environmental impact. Wheel or trac ked machines equipped w ith forks or a grapple are preferred for loading. Swivel loaders are preferred . Loading with a dozer and constructed earth ramps should be discouraged . Loading management must: 64 Code of practice for native forest tim ber prod uction on the QPW S forest estate

Schedule 11: Timber product harvesting practice S11.1 General S11 .3 Specific product conditions Wherever possible, harvesting of products other Speciality pieces may be harvested from than round timbers must occu r w ith, or in close standing or fallen trees provided the health or association with , timber harvesting. This is to habitat value of the parent tree is not affected. enhance silvicultural treatment and/or avoid reopening of areas w ith undesirable secondary Harvesti ng of fallen ti mber for any purpose must soil disturbance, compaction or damage to retain a minimum of 10 percent of material on regeneration . site. This may be inc reased w here species' conservati on requirements apply. All saleable timber products should be systemati cal ly harvested in ful ly integrated Charcoal can be taken from fal len and standing operati ons , leaving the area to regene rate and trees . develop until the next harvesting cycle. Bark may be ta ken fro m dead trees. Harvesting Re-entry into timber harvested areas must not bark from live trees, e.g. tea tree , requires that: occur during periods critical to the establishment • no plant is cut dow n or mutilated ; of regene ration. • the minimum diameter of the tree is 15cm at S11 .2 General conditions breast height; • bark is not harvested from more than one Harvesting operations must: third of the target species growi ng in the area • be from outside exclusion zones; in any one operation . Subsequent harvesti ng • not include habitat trees or habitat from the same area may onl y occur when rec ruitment trees (refer also S6.3.3, S6.3. 4, removed bark has been replaced ; and S6.3. 5); • the cambium layer is not exposed or • not include standing or fallen trees that are damaged during harvesting . obviously an active habitat, breeding site or shelter for birds or mammals (refer to S6.4); Sandalwood must be harvested in accordance with Schedule 12. • disperse harvesting wastes from operations within the general area to minimise the fi re hazard and interference with other users ; and • mainta in or restore all pre-existing drainage and soil stabilisation measures, consistent with Schedule 9. 65 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate

Schedule 12: Sandalwood harvesting Sandalwood, Santa/um lanceolatum, shrubs may • avoid or minimise damage to retained be harvested subject to the following conditions . vegetation; • be by pulling except w here this poses a S12.1 Operational access significant risk of soil erosion or isn 't economically viable; Operational access must: • be consistent with watercourse protecti on • use existing tracks wherever possible. guidelines. Tracks must be stabilised and drained in a manner cons istent with the Code; Sandalwood may be harvested within watercourse protection buffer zones provided: • for off-road access, use walk-over practices , trample rather tha n push vegetation and • machinery does not enter the buffer zone avoid disturbanc e of the soil surface; and, other than on a pre-exi sting track ; • ensure watercourse crossings are consistent • sandalwood are not pulled closer than 2m with Schedule 3. from a defining bank (Diagram 18); • sandalwood stems within 2m of the defining S12.2 Selective harvesting bank, or below the defining bank, may be Selective harvesting must: harvested by cutting provided the bank is not unstable, 'u'-shaped , physically damaged by • be restricted to slopes less th an 25 degrees ; harvesting or will become destabilised by • use rubbe r-tyred machines; harvesting ; and; • only harvest live sandalwood where the • where stems are removed closer than 2m diameter at bre ast height exceeds 12cm and from the defining bank the host tree must not cutting of primary branches indicates that be damaged . heartwood constitutes 50 percent or more of the branch diameter; • collect/gather any dead sandalwood • utilise all commerc ially viable material available from harvested shrubs , including roots , stumps, boles and branches; Diagram 18 - Sandalwood watercourse protection system Watercourse Protection System Harvesting area Buffer Zone Cutting only permitted if bank stable and not physically disturbed No sandalwood pulling within 2 metres of the defining bank • S12.3 Selective harvesting in specific Strategic Environmenta l Areas (SEA) 66 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate In the following Strategic Environmental Areas (SEA): • The Gulf Rivers Strategic Envi ronmental Area ; • The Cape York Strateg ic Environmental Area ; • Fraser Island Strategic Environmental Area ; • Hinchinbrook Island Strategic Environmental Area; harvesting is to comply with the following : • For harvesting of sandalwood in a designated precinct within a Strategic Environmental Area : no harvesting w ithin Sm of the defining bank of a stream or lake ; only cutting is permitted (i. e. no pulling) between Sm and 4Sm from the defining bank of a stream or lake ; pulling is permitted between 4Sm and 9Sm from the defining bank of a stream or lake, provided a minimum spacing of 1Orn is retained between harvested trees. • For harvesting of sandalwood in a Strategic Environmental Area: no harvesting w ithin Sm of the defining bank of a watercourse ; pulling is permitted between Sm and 9Sm from the defining bank of a watercourse, provided a minimum spacing of 1Orn is retained between harvested trees . 67 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 13: Harvesting and regeneration silviculture Harvesting and regene ration silviculture requirements have been incorporated into Core 8.3.2. 68 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 14: Camping and processing sites S14.1 General conditions red istributed throughout the forest or otherwise disposed of; Timber harvesting camping and processing sites must be appropriately located and minimise • provide minimal necessary access adverse impact to the forest. Meet safety and hygiene requirements S14.2 Specific requirements Camping and/or processing sites must: • have adequate fire protection including a In addition to the general conditions , the follow ing bare earth fire break no greater than one are also to apply. blade width; Conform to OHP requirements • have a waste disposal system that Camping and/or processing sites must: guarantees that wastes are collected, • be located: contained in appropriate bins and then disposed of properly; in an area with good natural drainage; not within a WPZ ; and • provide for the proper storage and not w ithin the visual range of a publicly management of fuels , oils or hazardous frequented road . substances in accordance w ith Schedule 17. • have a clearly defined period of occupancy Meet good site management practices for processing sites ; Users of camping and/or processing sites must: • have drainage that is maintained in • use caravans or temporary structures that accordance with the requ irements for are visually acceptable and do not diminish landings under Schedule 10. forest values or otherwise confl ict w ith forest management; Protect habitat Camping and/or processing sites must: • not bury rubbish (see Schedule 17) • avoid or otherwise provide protection for any • locate lavatory, sullage and waste water RE or threatened species as required; facilities at least 40m away from any W PZ and in a location and soil type that w ill not • minimise clearing and damage to trees or contaminate surface or subsurface waters ; forest vegetation; • maintain the site in a clean, tidy and fire safe • must not involve the insertion of spikes , nails condition. bolts or similar into standing trees ; S14.3 Site decommissioning Meet operational requirements Process ing sites must be located to: Site decommissioning must ensure : • ensure snig distances to temporary • structures and rubbish are removed ; processing infrastructure are a maximum of • timber wastes are dispersed to assist 500m; rehabilitation and to avoid a fire hazard ; • ensure there is no truc k haulage to • natural drainage is restored and necessary temporary processing infrastructure soil erosion control measu res are provided ; (temporary mills); and • ensure processing wastes are progressively • any additional req uirements are met. removed from the processing site and 69 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the Q PWS forest estate

Schedule 15: Pests and disease management S15.1 General managed according to these principles and progressively mapped on the harvest file. Pests and diseases have the potential to cause significant adve rse economic, environmental and S15.3 Prevention of spread social impacts on State lands. Harvesting operations are to be managed to Pests and diseases can spread naturally by wi nd , restrict the further spread of any pest or disease water or animals but also by human activities infestation. such as the movement of veh icles and equipment used by visitors, contractors and employees. Control measures must be consistent with the relevant legislation. Reproductive material can also be carried from one area to another on shoes and cloth ing . The use of chemical control products must be in Materials such as soil, mulch or gravel also have accordance with the manufacturer's the potential to spread pest plant and pathogen specifications. reproductive material. S15.4 Clean-down facilities Legislation relating to pests, weeds and disease All machinery used in an infested area and likely management are specified in Core section to be contaminated with pest or disease 2.3.2.4. reproductive material is to be cleaned prior to exiting the infested area or at a designated clean- The movement of mach inery presents a dow n site. significant contamination risk as there are many nooks and crevices where reproductive materi al Designated clean-down sites on the harvesting can be lodged out of sight. If thi s is dislodged area are to be used to assist with future when a machine is next used, the new area can monitoring. become contaminated. Care should be taken when deciding the location All persons entering State forest areas should of clean-down sites to reduce risk of spread and ta ke reasonable steps to reduce the risk of for ease of monitoring and control. All clean-down spreading pests through the movement of sites are to be located at least 50m from any vehicles, plant, equipment, boats, persons, watercourse to prevent contaminated runoff from livestock and materials. entering watercourses. DAFF Forest Products are to ensure, on a risk S15.5 Monitoring assessed basis, that machinery entering the harvest area is free from contamination. Harvesting operations w ithin the sale area and associated haul routes will be monitored for pest S15.2 Harvesting management weed spread as req uired. Where possible, harvesting operations should be conducted in areas of the harvesting area where there are no known pests or weeds first, and then move operations into infested areas. Inspection and mapping of know n infestations is to occur prior to harvesting commencing . Pest infestations identified during harvesting are to be 70 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 16: Air and noise pollution management Timber harvesting and associated activities must be managed to prevent or minimise unreasonable interference with any environmental or soc ial values as caused by smoke, dust, odour, noise or light. The potential for air pollution and noise interference must be cons idered during planning where this is li kely. Strategies may include but are not restricted to: • restricting operations to defined weather conditions ; • restricting the use of equipment and machinery during defined periods of time; • using buffers and setbacks; • orientating equipment to direct noise away from sensitive places ; • use of specially muffled equipment or other noise attenuation methods appropriate to an activity or type of equipment; • positioning operations away from sensitive places ; • tempora ry restrictions on other forest users ; and • road watering or treatment to control a dust hazard near to sensitive places. 71 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 17: Waste and hazardous materials management S17.1 General • on-site storage of toxic chemicals in drums is not favoured. W here absolutely necessary, All persons involved in timber harvesting , the storage area must be bunded to contain including associated roading works, are any leakage or spillage and to prevent it from responsible for waste and hazardous materials contaminating the surrounding soil or from management for activities under their control. entering any watercourse or water drainage system. The bunded area should 110 percent S17.2 Waste materials management of the capacity of the all vessels stored within To minimise the risk of land and water pollution, the bund . Additional volume should be visual or other degradation from wastes allowed to account for rainfall events and fi re generated during operations , harvesting and road control operations ; works areas are to be kept as waste-free as • pesticides must be used according to the practica l. The follow ing must apply: manufacturer's directions and conform to the • waste management must conform to the Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Environmental Protection Act 1994; Act 1966 including the obtaining of necessary • all wastes includ ing paper, packets, boxes licenses or permits; drums, machine parts , wi re ropes or other • machinery and equipment must be materials, are to be continuously collected, maintained to manufac turers specifications contained in bins or other suitable so that leaks are minimised; and receptacles and removed from the forest to • waste toxi c and hazardous substances must an authorised disposal site; be handled in accordance w ith S 17 .1. • wastes must not be stored within 40m of any W PZ; S17 .4 Spills and leaks • no waste is to be buried in the forest; and In the event of a toxic or hazardous substance spi ll or leak the standard below will apply. • all waste should be removed regularly and must be removed upon completion of the General sale. For all spills and leaks: S17.3 Toxic or hazardous substance • any toxic or hazardous substance must be management contained as soon as practicable. Clean up procedures must be promptly implemented The use of toxic or hazardous substances must according to emergency and preparedness be minimised wherever possible. Such materials response procedures, and any wastes proposed to be used, including mate rials such as generated during the clean-up must be herbicides, pesticides and fertilisers, must be disposed of according to manufacture r' s documented in the OHP. guidelines and waste management Toxic or hazardous substances must be secured, requirements; and stored , used and disposed of according to label • measures must be implemented to ensure instructions and relevant legis lation to ensure the event does not occur again. health and safety and the protection of forest va lues. Spills and leaks greater than 20 litres in a single incident In all cases : Department of Environment and Heritage • emergency and preparedness response Protection must be informed as per the procedures must be available on site and notification requ irements of the Environmental implemented for all classes of toxic or Protection Act 1994. hazardous substances used. These Spills and leaks less than 20 litres in a single procedures must be done in accordance w ith incident the Safety Data Sheet prepared by the Where there is the potential for material or manufacturer, which must also be available serious environmental harm to occur, e.g. 15 on site; litres of a pesticide spills into a stream th at feeds • fuel trailers and storage, filling or clean-down the local water supply, Department of areas must be located in a secure , fire safe Environment and Heritage Protection must be location at least 50m from a W PZ; informed as per the notification requirements of the Environmental Protection Act 1994. 72 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Schedule 18: Operational restrictions Operations must cease or be restricted for safety Use of unsealed forest roads must cease w hen it reasons or when infrastructure , forest values or is unsafe or road damage occurs or is likely to environmental va lues are threatened by weather occur. or ground conditions . Wet conditions S18.1 Felling Road use must cease when : Felling must cease w here wind strength prevents • truc ks cannot move unassisted along the safe or accurate directional fell ing or w hen road ; or ground conditions are unsafe. • the road is excessively wet, water is ponded, or water is flowi ng on the S18.2 Snigging surface of the road , such that: Snigg ing in a harvesting section or area must rutting greater tha n 15cm in depth cease when : below the road profi le occurs over a distance of greater than 20m, and/or • soils are excessively wet or saturated; - the road surface drainage or water • water is flowing dow n a track for more than quality is adversely affected; and/or 20m; any damage wi ll render the road • 'dry' watercourse crossings are flowing and a unusable tempora ry cu lvert has not been installed ; Any damage caused under wet cond itions • continued use wou ld result in rutting deeper must be repaired prior to further use of the than 15cm below the original land profile ; road . Use of roads is prohibited if the affecting more than 30m or 10 percent of operator cannot guarantee timely restoration. the trac k length whichever is less ; and/or adversely impacting drainage or water Operator's veh icles or trucks caught by a quality. sudden intense rainfall event, may leave the • continued use would require mud/soil to be forest if it is safe and necessary to do so. bladed off, deeper than 15cm below the orig inal land profile; In some conditions , a loaded vehicle may affecting more than 30m or 1O percent of need assistance to start moving. Once the trac k length whichever is less ; and/or moving it should be capable of proceeding lowering the track to th e extent that unassisted . In some circumstances it may be effective rehab ilitation back to or near more effective to tow the vehicle out rather the original profile is prevented ; and/or than to attempt to drive out. adversely impacting drainage or water quality. Dry conditions Road use for timber haulage must cease w hen: Any blading off on snig tracks must be a last deep bulldust develops on the surface of resort and wil l require extra works to stabilise, the road , and continued use wi ll render including use of vegetation , replacing bladed off the road unusable, however: materials in situ or from other sources . - trucks may be assisted to move along th e road ; In all situations, effective rehabilitation must be any damage caused under dry guaranteed . cond itions must be repaired as soon as conditions permit; S18.3 Loading ongoing use may occur where there Loading at landings or roadsides must cease is a lesser environmental risk, rather when surface runoff is occurring or when water is th an providing an alternate route that ponded on the section being worked on and wi ll rapidly become similarly affected . usage wi ll resu lt in excessive soil distu rbance This must be documented. and adverse impact. S18.4 Road construction and maintenance Roading construction and maintenance operations must cease when surface water is flowi ng on the road works . S18.5 Haulage or heavy machinery 73 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate S18.6 Harvesting operations Occasionally it may be requ ired to shift harvesting operations to another area for wet weather or other unplanned reasons . This is acceptable provided : • conditions at the new site will not result in similar damage ; • affected sections of snig tracks , road or landings are not rerouted; and • vacated areas are stabilised as soon as practical. 74 Code of practice for native fore st timber production on the Q PWS forest estate

Appendix 1: Acronyms and abbreviations BA basal area BZ buffer zone cm centimetres C Coasta l dbhob diameter at breast height over bark (measured at 1.3m above ground level) ER erodibility rating ESFM ecologically susta inable forest management FPA featu re protection area/s FZ filter zone ha hectarels JRMP joint road management plants m metre/s m' square metre/s m, cubic metre/s MOU memorand um of understanding MUID management unit identifier NIA not appl icable NFPS National Forest Policy Statement 1992 DAFF Forest Forest Products is the State Government's business group respons ible for Products the commercial manag ement of State ow ned native forests and is part of the Department of Agriculture , Fisheries and Forestry . Previously know n as DERM Forest Products, NRW Forest Products , DPI Forestry, Queensland Forest Service or Department of Forestry. OHP operational harvesting plants QPWS Department of National Parks, Rec reation , Sport and Rac ing, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service RE reg ional ecosystemls SC sub-coastal SMP species management profile/s t tonne/s VRPA visual resource protection area/s w western areas WPZ wate rcourse protection zone 75 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate

Appendix 2: Glossary of terms Term Definition Accred ited An operator with accreditation in industry standards for the operati on being operator undertaken. Active zone . Th is is a zone of active erosion or deposition characterised by either: any erosion face greater than10cm high ; or • a scour/deposition area greater than1m . Deposited material may be loose, unconsolidated sand, gravel or water-washed stone. The zone may be obscured by litter or associ ated with a significant reduction in surface cover. Width is measured between erosion faces where these exist, or across the deposited material w here no erosion face exists . Aspect An element of forest activity that may interact w ith the environment (e.g. roading). Average annual The long-term average of the peak, or highest, annual watercourse flows. This is peak flow calculated by averaging the highest annual peaks over a suitably long period . The average annual peak flow tends to be modified only slightly by an annual ve ry high or ve ry low peak, i. e. this tends to be a very stable level regardless of short term variations . Batters An earth slope formed during road or landing construction either by placi ng of fill material or by cutting into the natural hillside. Berm A heap or mound of soil associated with the sweeping of material towards the edge of the road or track and which prevents runoff from draining from the road surface. Best practice Management to achieve ongoing minimisation of an activity's environmental harm through cost effective measures assessed against the measures currently used nati onally and internationally. Biodiversity "The variety of all life forms - the plants, animals and micro-organisms - the genes they constitute , and the ecosystems they inhabit" (National Forest Policy Statement 1992). Includes flora and fauna . Blading off The removal of surface soil from a snig track or road in wet or dry conditions in order to expose a drier and or fi rmer surface for use by mach inery. Box cut Where construction of a road or track results in cutting through a section of land exposing a cut soil face on either side. Buffer or buffer The buffer is comprised of the minimum setback past the defining bank for the zone (BZ) watercou rse type plus any slump protection or head scarp protection required . Apply whichever is the greater of the slump or head scarp protection . The buffer is comprised of the land and riparian vegetation, if any, which is to remain undisturbed during and following forest harvesting operations . Bu lldust Powdery soil material caused by machinery pulverising the soil surface (common in western regions). Bund, bunding, An embankment or wall , w hich may form part or all of the perimeter of a storage area, bund wa ll designed to contain and prevent the spread of dangerous substances being stored or processed .8 Catch drai n A drain constructed across the slope to catch overland flow and divert it to other areas . Causeway A low level , man-made stream/watercourse crossing constructed of concrete or logs, allowing vehicles to cross in periods of low water flow. 8 AS 2507-1 998 The storage and handling of agricultural and veterinary chemicals, 1.4.8. Also AS4452- 1997, 1.5.5 76 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Characteristic Vegetation that indicates good subsoil moisture conditions that probably occur as a vegetation res ult of prolonged subsoil seepage and is different from that found on areas adjacent to the bed and banks , for example : • Stream bed - dead aquatic vegetation, water couch , rushes , sedges, . smartweeds ; Stream bank - tea trees , bottlebrushes , forest red gum , river red gum, yapunyah. In intermittent streams and creeks with sandy beds, such stream bed vegetation may be only sparsely represented . Vegetation is only one characteristic and should be used in conjunction with a wider vi ew of watercourse structure and processes (see Schedu le 3). It should be noted that vegetation is influenced by geology as well as water availability and past and present management practices. Chemicals Rodenticides , insecticides, fungicides , herbicides. Clean-down, clean- The clean-down of vehicles and equipment is undertaken to stop the spread of pest down site (also weed seeds and vegetative material and contaminants . Vari ous clean-down methods called 'wash-dow n') and types of equipment can be used to remove any carried weed seeds and/or vegetative material potentially capable of spreading pest weeds. Clearing Note: Clearing in the context of this Code does not have the same meaning as the term "clearing" under the Vegetation Management Act 1999. Cleari ng includes the removal of standing woody vegetation for the construction of roads, (permanent or te mporary), landings , major snig tracks and camping and processing areas. Clearing does not include the removal of standing woody vegetation from existing, overgrown roads , tracks , major snig trac ks and landings etc provided the woody vegetation to be removed cons ists entirely of: (a) native tree species regenerating following any previous clearing disturbance : .• or that have not achieved 10m in height; or when there is less than 20 years since the last disturbance . (b) introduced or pest species . Clearing does not include the removal of standing woody vegetation associated with the construction or reopening of minor snig trac ks. Competent person A person who has competently completed training in the Code to a satisfactory level. Cross drainage The use of various structures, including culverts, inverts , debris , rollovers and water bars ('whoa boys') to carry w ater from one side of a road to the other. Crown The formation of a road surface to a convex shape from w hich water wi ll drain freely. Cultural heritage A place or object that has significance for past, present or future generations for (feature or place) aesthetic, anthropological, archaeological, historical , scientific, spiritual , societal, technolog ical or customary values, including those sites or features listed under either the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, the, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, the Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003 or the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975. Culvert A pipe, arch or box structure covered with soil or other material and lying below the road surface , used to carry w ater from one side of the road to the other. DAFF Forest Forest Products is a business group of the Department of Agricu lture, Fisheries and Products Forestry. Previ ously known as Forest Products , DPI-Forestry, NRW Forest Products or Department of Forestry. Damage Any significant loss or degradation of forest soil, water, flora or fau na or other values as a consequence of forest harvesting operations. 77 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Defined channel A depression or incised area whether eroded or not, w here the line and boundaries of the surface runoff in normal seasons are easily identifi ed by eye from topograph ic featu res . Deformity, Habitat Tree features /defects including deeply fissured bark , fi re scars, small hollows, burls tree with cavities and other irregularities or damage that are able to provide habitat. Directi onal felling Felling in a predetermined and desired direction by uti lisation of skilful fel ling techniques , which may include the use of aids such as wedges and jacks. Disease/s See definition for PesUs. Dominant tree , co- Dominant tree - The largest girth trees w ithin a stand , having a crown within or above dominant tree the general canopy of the forest. Co-dominant tree - Larger girth trees within a stand , with a crow n within the general canopy of the forest. Earthworks Mechanical soil movement as part of road , landing or snig track construction. Ecologically The terms Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management (ESFM) and Sustainable sustaina ble forest Forest Management are based on the principles of ecologically sustainable management development and for the purpose of this Code these terms are synonymous. (ESFM) Ecolog ical Sustainable Development is development that improves the tota l quality of life , both now and in the futu re , in a way that maintains the ecological processes on . which life depends. Objecti ves are: To enhance individual and community well-being and welfare by following a path of .. economic development that safeguards the welfare of future generations; To provide equity within and between generations; To protect biological diversity and maintain essential ecological processes and life support systems. In particular with regard to the requirements of the National Forest Policy Statement . 1992 for sustainable forest use : Maintaini ng the ecological processes within forests (the formation of soil, energy .. flows and the carbon , nutrient and water cycles); Maintaining the biological diversity of forests ; and Optimising the benefits to the community from all uses of forests withi n ecological constraints. Environmental Where a timber harvesting activity has any adverse effect, or potentially adverse harm effect, (whether temporary or permanent and of w hatever magnitude , duration or frequency) on an environmental value, and includes environmental nuisance. Environmental Unreasonable interference or likely interference with an environmental value . nuisance Environmental The potential to cause unlawful environmental harm. th reat Environmental A quality or physical characte ristic of the environment that is conduc ive to ecological value health or public amenity or safety; or • Another quality of the environment identified and declared to be an environmental value under an environmental protection policy or regulation. Environmentally Ta ki ng all reasonable steps to safeguard the envi ronment against harm as a result of responsi ble operational activity. Erosion face A steep bare soil slope more or less adjacent to the zone of water flow. Height is measured vertically from the average base level of the watercourse to the top of the erosion face. 78 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Exclusion zone Areas delineated in the Code or in harvesting plans w here harvesting or other activities are excluded. These include : • Watercourse protection zones , .. • Cultural heritage protection buffers , Areas with slopes greater than the allowable limits , . Rare or threatened species protection buffers , and ; Vegetation alongside designated roads . Feature prote cti on Where the visual resource has either: outstanding natu ral scenery; spectacular area biological or geological features; unique or unusual qualities ; or significant, stimulating or aesthetic sensory qualities. Fill ba nk A bank comprising soil deposited during earthworks. Filte r zone The filter zone is an additional area extend ing from the buffer zone w here harvesting disturbance is to be minimised . The filter zone is an area abutting the buffer zone where forest harvesting disturbance is limited to log extraction points only. Foreground The immed iate landscape/vi ewscape seen from a specific point or place . -The distance of the foreground is dependent on the density of vegetation viewed parallel to the ground: A. No vegetation, foreground = 500m B. Sparse vegetation (e.g. open woodland), foreground = 100m C. Dense vegetation (e.g. dense rainforest understorey) , foreground= 20m Forest products As defined in the Forestry Act 1959, means all vegetable growth and material of vegetable origin w hether living or dead and wh ether standing or fallen, including timber .. and includes : Honey . All forms of indigenous animal life Any nest, bower, shelter or structure of any form of indigenous animal life , .• Fossil rema ins, and Re lics , • Quarry material Forest entitlement A designated part of the land contained in a Grazing Homestead Free-holding lease , area Deed of Grant or other instrument of title subsequently issued over land formerly held as a grazing selection , w here the forest products remain the property of the State as defined under the Lands Act 1994. Forest productivity The capac ity of a forest to provide timber, minor forest products and other environmental values including ca rbon sequestration . Forest val ue An intrinsic feature of the forest environment that may include fo rest products, environmental values , landscape, recreation , community or cu ltural benefits. Ford A stable natural surface, usually of stone or gravel , which allows a vehicle to cross a watercourse . Forma l visitor node A point/location (e.g. picnic site , camping ground ) at which people gather to undertake specific , planned activities using properly designed and constructed fac il ities (e.g. graded walking track , road). Geomorph ology, or The stud¥ of, or concern with, the form of the ground surface and the processes which geomorph ologic shape it. 9 Kearey, P., 1996 The new Penguin dictionary of geology. Penguin Books. Page 127. 79 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Groups or In general , interested groups are taken to be a person , group, organization , member or interested groups system that effects, or can be affected by the application of, th is Code. Such interested groups mi@ht consider that they have an "interest" in the operation and/or review of the Code. 1 Interested groups may include relevant Government Agencies , forest workers, timber industry groups, recreation groups , conservation groups and the visiting public . Habitat tree Is a dominant or co-do minant living tree selected to be retained in a harvesting area because it has at least one visible hollow over 10cm in diameter and be 2m or more above the ground . Preference is for tree species that are know n to develop hollows early and live a re latively long time (this may include, but is not exclusive to , Eucalyptus, Corymbia and Angophora species ). Harvesting Activities associated with roading , felling , snigging, loading and hauling of forest products from a forest area. Harvesting area The area, not including exclus ion zones , indicated in a harvesting plan available for harvesting. Harvesting debris A piece of woody debris from harvesting activity, greater than 10cm in diameter and longer than 1 metre Harvesting Wheeled or trac ked equipment used in ground based harvesting operations. machinery Hazardous See Toxic or Hazardous Substances substances Head scarp A near ve rti cal, unstable and near semi-circular face marki ng a nick point in a gully or waterway (see slump face for diagram). Hollow, habitat tree A holl ow is a cavity in a habitat tree that may be used for nests, roosts or dens by hollow-dependent fauna . This Code defines that a hollow must be 10cm or greater along the opening's smallest axis. In the past, routine surveys of hollow-bearing trees in Queensland forests have generally used 10c m as a minimum size criterion. This minimum size of 10cm is also used to red uce the chance of selecting insufficient hollow depth . For further information, refer to Lamb, D., Lyon , R., Smith, A. Wilkinson, G., 1998, Managing habitat trees in Queensland forests: a report by the Habitat Tree Techn ical Committee to the Queensland Department of Natural Resources, Forest Resources. Informal visitor A point/location (e.g. cliff, lake) at which people gather to undertake specific activities node (e.g. rock climbing , nature study) in an unplanned, self-reliant and/or unguided manner. Instability Evidence of instability may be present in the form of exposed slip/slump faces , or suggested by ground cracks , geology or hummocky topog raphy. (See Schedule 5) Landing An area , constructed or natural, where timber or minor forest products are stockpiled and loaded onto a truc k Landscape value Areas or features that are significantly aesthetically pleasing for reason of the variety, uniqueness or naturalism of the landform, vegetation, water form or areas of high public usage . Management plan A plan dealing with strategic and/or operational issues of land use management prepared for specified reg ional or local areas, integrating environ mental and commerc ial objectives. 10 This definition is based on that given by http://en.wik1pedia.org/wik1 l lnterested group, accessed on 03/04/2012 . 80 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Material Environmenta l harm (other than nu isance ) that: environmental (a) is not trivi al or negligible in nature , extent or context; or harm (b) causes actual or potential loss or damage to property of an amount of, or amounts totall ing , more than the threshold amount (see the Environmenta l Protection Act 1994 (EP Act), threshold amount) for but less than the maximum amount (see the EP Act for maximum amount; or (c) that results in costs of more than the threshold amount but less than the maximum amount being incu rred in taking appropriate action to: (i) prevent or minimise the harm; and (ii) rehabilitate or restore the envi ronment to its condition before the harm. MUID Management unit identifier. Multiple use The management of diverse forest uses and values , covering wood and other forest management products, as well as conservation of the forest environ ment, water catchment and soil protecti on , wildlife habitat, landscape, w ilderness, genetic resources and diversity, rec reation, scientific study and education . National Forest The policy and ag reement between the Commonwealth and State Governments Policy Statement setting out the vision , goals and approaches to fo rest management in Au stralia. 1992 (NFPS) Natural heritage A natural or physical feature that has significance for the present generation or past of futu re generations which may be listed under either the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, the Cultural Record (Landscape Queensland and Queensland Estate) Act 1987, or the Australian Heritage Commission Act 1975. Native forest As described in the NFPS, any locally indigenous forest com munity, th e dominant species of w hich are trees, and containing throughout its growth the complement of native trees and habitats normally assoc iated w ith that forest type , or havi ng the potential to develop these characteristics . It includes forest with these ch aracte ristics that have been regene rated w ith human assistance foll ow ing disturbance . It excludes plantation of nati ve species and previously logged native forest that has been regenerated with non-endemic species. Nick point The point at which there is a sharp change in gradient. Operational A plan prepared for the guidance of fie ld operations during harvesti ng . harvesting plan (OHP) Outslope Formation of a road surface to provide fall over its width so that the surface is sloped to shed water to the downhill side. Peak use times Include Easter, Christmas Eve to New Years Day and may include school holidays and Sunday afternoons, depending on local conditions. Permanent Permanent processing infrastructure is that which is fi xed using fi xing mechanisms processing that do not allow it to be moved within 1 or 2 days and is subject to the appropriate infrastructure approvals. (This may include a sawmill or other processing infrastructure such as shade structures, machinery, equipment and harvesting residues). Permeability The read iness with w hich soil or rock allows water, air, or plant roots to penetrate or pass through . Pest/s Pest means any animal, plant, parasite or disease causing organism (such as bacteria, virus or fungus ) capable of causing adverse impacts to envi ronmental , economic or social va lues , whether or not it is declared and listed in the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Regulation 2003. 11 Rainfall event, In this Code, a normal , or expected, ra infall event is taken to cover up to a 1 in 5 year Normal event. This refe rs to both rainfall intensity and/or peak flow. 11 Definition from Operational policy - Management of pests on QPWS managed areas. 81 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Rainforest Rainforest regional ecosystems are communities ranging from semi -evergreen vine th ickets to complex mesophyll vine forests. Emergent Eucalypts, Lophostemon and Syncarpia species are infrequent or absent. Ground cover vegetation is normally sparse and grasses are usually absent. Ferns , palms and mosses are com mon . Th is definition is applied at a scale of 1:50,000. This maps down to 1 Ha, so an area of rainforest smaller than 1 Ha would be defined as part of the surrounding RE. These broad vegetation groups are defined by REDD as groups 1 to 7 at 1:2M scale. Recruitment A living tree selected to be retained in a harvesting area as it is considered to have the habitat tree greatest potential to become a habitat tree in the shortest possible time. The trees are generally dominant or co-dominant with habitat forming cha racteristics including damaged or senescing crowns, visible termite nests or other deformities in species know n to develop hollows. Regeneration The renewal of a forest by natural or artificial means or the trees brought into existence through those means. Re habilitation The restoration of an area of land, road , track or landing to a stable condition. Retained trees All trees rega rdless of species , age or size, prescri bed for retention on a harvesting area to address specified forest management objectives. Rutting Soil disturbance caused by the sinking of w heels or tracks below the soil surface. Serious rutting is defined as that being more than 30cm in depth by 10m in length (see S10.5). Operational restrictions may apply if rutting is deeper than 15cm (see S18.2). Saturated When soils are fu lly flooded/saturated so that surface water will pool/flow . Seri ous Envi ronmenta l harm (other than nu isance ) that: envi ronmental (a) causes actual or potential harm to environmenta l values that is irreversible, of a harm high impact or widespread, or; (b) causes actual or potential harm to environmenta l values of an area of high conservation value or speci al significance , or; (c) causes actual or potential loss or damage to property of an amount of, or amounts totalling , more than the threshold amount (see EP Act for threshold amount), or; (d) results in costs of more than the threshold amount being incurred in taking appropriate action to- (i) prevent or minimise the harm, and; (ii) rehabi litate or restore the environment to its condition before the harm. Side cut Where construction of a road , landing or trac k across a slope results in the exposure of a soil face on the uphill side and deposition of spoil on the down hill side. Side drain A drain w hich diverts water from a table drain into a stable area. Silviculture The theory and practice of managing forest establishment, compos ition and growth to achieve specified objectives. Slump or slump Slumps are near vertical face above the active zone w hich is or has been unstable. face Slumping involves mass movement and collapse of a section of bank. Banks contain ing large proportions of poorly drained fine sediment such as clay, silt or fi ne sand tends to collapse by slumping . A slump can occur w ith or without undercutting. Snigging The movement of logs, either w holly or partly supported on the ground , from the point of felling to the landing. Snig track A track along w hich snigging equipment trave ls with log. Snig track, Major Arterial route servi ng an area and subject to multiple passes (> 10), substantial use impact and likely to be required for future harvesting . Wi ll persist for some time. Snig track, Minor Feeder route serving major snig tracks and subject to limited passes (<1 0), minor use impact and not likely to be required for future harvesting . Will not be evident in the short term. 82 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Soil erosion The wearing away of the land by running water, ra infall , wi nd or a geological agent at a rate accelerated due to forest activities. Soil compacti on Includes rutting , puddling and displacement and is caused by soil particles being compressed. The resultant increase in density and the reduction in permeability may have a serious long term effect on forest productivity. Soil disturba nce Exposure of mineral soil and its loosening to a depth of 10cm or more such that the risk of surface runoff is increased. Soil instability The actual or potential mass movement through such actions as landslides, earthflows and slumps. Speci es A document prepared by QPWS, which provides information and protective measures management for relevant EVNT species. profile (SMP) Spoil Excess soil, rock , or other material excavated during harvesting operations . Stabilise To undertake works which prevent deterioration in soil or water quality. Includes vegetative , structural or mechanical measures designed to prevent or control accelerated erosion. Stable Where the watercourse bed and/or banks tend to no or minimal change over time. Processes of stream channel scour, and/or deposition, constantly occur in a natural stable channel , but over ti me, if this leads to degradation or aggradation , respectively, then the stream would not be stable 12 . The concept of dynamic equilibrium refers to this steady state situation, where inflows are balanced by outflows. Stand A contiguous group of trees sufficiently uniform in age-class distribution, composition and structure, and grow ing on a site of sufficiently uniform quality, to be a distinguishable unit. 13 State forest Land set apart and declared as a State forest under the Forestry Act 1959 for permanent reservation and management for the sustainable use of forest resources . Table dra in A drain parallel to and at the side of the road . Temporary Temporary processing infrastructure is not fi xed to the extent th at it can be easily processin g relocated within one or two days. (This may include a sawmill or other processing infrastructure infrastructure such as shade structures, machinery, equipment and harvesting res idues). Temporary tra ck A timber extraction road constructed specifically for use during the harvesting operations and closed at the completion of harvesting . It is generally a short length of road leading from a permanent timber extraction road to a landing or series of landings. Threatened Includes Endangered , Vulnerable and Near Th reatened (EVNT) species defined under Species the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable (CEEV) species under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. Timber As defined in the Forestry Act 1959, includes the trunk, branches, stumps and roots of trees , whether standing or not, and all wood , whether or not the same is cut up, sawn, hewn, split or otherwise fash ioned. Timber production/ The growing and harvesting of forest products from native forests. harvesting Timber reserve Land set apart and declared as a timber reserve under the Forestry Act 1959. 12 Rosgen, D.L., A stream channel stability assessment methodology. http://www wildlandhydrology com/assets/CHANNEL_STABILITY_pdf Accessed: 13/05/201 1 13 Definition taken from The Australian Forestry Standard, AS4708- 2007, p16. 83 Code of practice for native forest timber prod uction on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Toxic OR A toxic or hazardous contaminant means a contaminant, other than an item of Hazardous expl osive ord nance, that, if improperly treated, stored, disposed of or otheiwise Substances managed , is likely to cause serious or material environmental harm because of- (a) its quantity, concentration, acute or chron ic toxic effects , carc inogenicity, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, corros iveness, explosiveness , rad ioactivity or flammability; or (b) its physical , chemical or infectious characteristics .14 Unstable Where the watercourse bed and/or banks tend strongly to change. Changes may be seen in vertical stability, lateral stability, channel stability (scou r/deposition), channel pattern, watercourse profile features , channel dimension ratios and watercourse evolution. These listed visible indicators of instabil ity tend to be in order from short term to long term. Visual resource Areas w here the visual resource, or scenic , value is high . protection area Wash-down , wash- See Clean-down. down site Washout A washout refers to the erosion of a relatively soft surface, suc h as a roadbed , by a sudden gush of water from a downpour or fl oods. It also refers to a channel produced by such erosion. 15 Waste As defined by the Environmental Protection Act 1994; Waste includes anything that is : (a) left over, or an unwanted by-product, from an industrial, commercial , domestic or other acti vity; or (b) surplus to the industry, commercial, domestic or other activity generating the waste. Waste can be a gas, liquid, solid or energy, or a combination of any of them. A thing can be waste w hether or not it is of value. Water bars ('whoa Are primarily erosion control structures best used to stabilise surfaces on the boys') completion of use . Generally, they are an earth bank constructed across a road or trac k to divert surface water runoff. Watercourse A defined channel which receives and conducts overland water flow for some periods in most years. Watercourse A watercourse crossing is a temporary or permanent cross ing , and any associated crossing permanent or te mporary structures that are required , to provide access over or through a watercours e or water body. Crossings include, but are not limited to , bed level cross ings , culvert crossings and bridges . Any erosion protecti on or sedimentation management stru ctures are also considered as part of the watercourse crossing. Watercourse An area of specified width surrounding or adjacent to drainage features or water protection zone fea tures where harvesting is restricted and/or soil disturbance is minimised , through the exclusion of harvesti ng machinery. See Buffer zone and Filter zone. 14 Definition taken from the Environmental Protection Act 1994 15 http://www.thefreediclionary.com/washout 84 Code of practice for native forest timber production on the QPWS forest estate Term Definition Water feature Water features are natural or artificial waterholes , impoundments , wetl ands (see also wetlands definition ) or springs and soaks. Water features may be associated with watercourses and characterised by one or more of the following: . the presence of water for more than three months in a normal wet season • In the absence of surface water, characteristic vegetation indicative of frequent recharge of groundwater or locally know n as associated with water features , .. may be evident. Soil conditions may show evidence of prolonged water saturation . Flora and fauna debris may be present, e.g. dead water plants; mussel, crab or . crayfish shells, fish skeletons, etc. Springs and soaks are areas where water flows from the surface or w here the soil is damp as a result of seepage Water holes, or a chain of water holes , within the main channel of a stream are not considered to be water features . Water quality Characteristics of water including turbidity (muddiness), nutrient status, salinity, clarity, chemica l content and biological activity. Wee d A troublesome plant growi ng out of place that may be causing harm to a crop or the environment. A weed may be declared under the Land Protection (Pests and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 and require control effort. It may be a Weed of National Significance (WONS) under the National Weeds Strategy (A national approach for weed management in Australia, Department of the Environment and Water Resources , 2007) or it may be listed in a Local Government Area Pest Management Plan. Wet Soil at or above field capacity. Soil bolus leaves a wet outline on hand when squeezed. Wetland Areas of permanent or periodic/intermittent inundation, with water that is static or flowi ng fresh , brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed 6 metres . To be a wetland the area must have one or more of the followi ng attributes: 16 i at least periodically the land supports plants and animals that are adapted to and dependent on living in wet cond itions for at least part of their life cycle . ii the substratum is predominantly undrained soils that are saturated, flooded or ponded long enough to develop anaerobic cond itions in the upper levels. iii the substratum is not soil and is saturated with water, or cove red by shallow water at some time. Also referred to as a water feature in this Code . Whoa boy See water bar. 16 This definition of Wetland taken from The Queensland Wetland Buffer Guideline , page 32, (http://wetlandinfo.ehp.qld.gov.au/resou rces/static/pdf/resources/reports/buffer-quide/wetland-buffer-guideli ne-14-04-13.pdf). See also Managing native forest practice: A self-assessable vegetation clearing code , p_ 11 , http://www.dnrm .qld.qov.au/ data/assets/pd! fi le/0005/ 111587/native-forest-practice-clearin q-code.pdf 85