Action item 8.2
Progress
Complete.
Approved by decision makers.
Recommendation implemented.
That a baseline weed assessment be conducted over all areas that will be accessed by a gas company on an exploration permit prior to any exploration activities being carried out on that area and that ongoing weed monitoring be undertaken to inform any weed management measures necessary to ensure no incursions or spread of weeds.
Completed.
Action item update
Implementation
The Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security will continue working with holders of existing Exploration Permits in the Beetaloo Sub-basin to accurately identify locations of exploration and undertake weed surveys in those areas.
A requirement for ongoing weed monitoring and management to prevent new incursions or spread of weeds has been incorporated into the Code of Practice and includes mandatory weed management requirements to be included in environment management plans enforced under the Petroleum (Environment) Regulations 2016. The Code of Practice for Onshore Petroleum Activities in the Northern Territory is on the DEPWS website.
Specific guidance regarding baseline weed assessments is provided within the Weed Management Planning Guideline on the DEPWS website.
Baseline assessments for new areas will be required prior to activities commencing in these areas.