12 December 2007
SUGARLOAF SURVEY WORKS UPDATE
Survey works continuing within the preliminary Sugarloaf Pipeline corridors will be essential in helping to determine a final pipeline route for the pipeline from Yea to Sugarloaf Reservoir in Christmas Hills, Project Director Rod Clifford said today.
Mr Clifford said to date the works had informed an Environment Effects Statement Referral to the Victorian Minister for Planning and had made some important findings, including identifying a population of Striped Legless Lizards near Yea.
“We knew from our initial studies that there were likely to be some of the lizards in the area, along with other important flora and fauna already identified.
“The fact that we have now found the lizard underlines the importance and necessity of the studies currently underway and enables us to put in place a management plan to ensure we minimise any potential impacts from the pipeline construction.
“We will be working closely with the Victorian Striped Legless Lizard Working Group in the development of a suitable management plan, using their expertise and experience of this unique creature.”
Mr Clifford said survey works would also look for the presence of the Growling Grass Frog, and have found the flora species Dianella Amonea. An Environmental Management Plan is being developed for the project.
“As well as these surveys works, the outcomes of our community consultation program will be vital to ensuring the best possible outcome for this project.
“We held our third round of community information sessions last week and have attended many meetings with local groups. Meetings with landowners are also ongoing.
“All of this information, along with the hundreds of discussions and meetings with individuals landowners and other local stakeholders, will contribute to a decision about the pipeline route.” Mr Clifford said.
A final pipeline route is expected to be made early in the new year.