Kaili Valley Wetlands Baseline Assessment and Environmental Management Plan

Background

Client: Department of Infrastructure and Planning, Queensland Government

BMT was engaged by the Queensland Government to produce an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Kaili Valley Wetlands to guide future industrial development within the Abbott Point State Development Area (APSDA) and maintain the values of these nationally significant wetlands in a coordinated way.

The Wetlands are located approximately 21 km northwest of Bowen, central Queensland within the APSDA. The first task of the project involved the definition of environmental values supported in the wetland, and an assessment of the processes (catchment hydrology, tides, water quality, groundwater etc.) that control these values and its functions. 

Outcomes and Benefits

This assessment was based on a review of existing information and field surveys of wetland hydrology, water quality, aquatic and terrestrial fauna, weeds and pest animals. A key part of the work was community consultation through a series of meetings and written submissions. Conceptual models were produced to graphically describe the interaction of physical processes, seasons, fauna and the surrounding environment. The baseline assessment was repeated in 2017 to determine whether baseline conditions had altered since 2013. A risk assessment was carried to identify issues requiring management attention. The EMP outlined management issues, management objectives, desired outcomes and management actions. Management strategies were designed to protect and enhance the environmental values of the Wetlands and surrounds. 

Services and Expertise Provided

• Ecological and water quality data collection;
• Assessment of wetland hydrodynamics;
• Development of an EMP outlining actions and priorities for weed and feral animal control, ecological restoration, storm water management to protect the environmental values of the Wetlands; and
• Community consultation.