What information do LGAs ask to be included in an EMP?
As a guide, LGAs will require the following information to be addressed in an EMP.
Site description
The site description should include:
- site location and briefly describe the development proposal
- site plan incorporating cadastre, contours, aerial photography and soil mapping overlays
- current land use, including details of any existing nutrient and irrigation management measures implemented
- the extent of existing native vegetation and any native vegetation to be cleared as part of the proposal
- proposed areas for revegetation and indicate the species planting density and site preparation required.
Note — to clear native vegetation you first need to seek approval from the Department of Water and Environment Regulation (DER).
Soils description
Include in your soil description:
- details on the soil types present on the site
- phosphorus buffering index (PBI) for any areas proposed to receive irrigation and fertilisers
- details of soil amendment if part of the proposal.
Water resources description
Include descriptions of the following:
- wetlands, watercourses, natural drainage depressions, soaks and dams present on the site
- any land subject to seasonal inundation
- details of any current groundwater allocation license held for the site.
Nutrient management
Details on nutrient management should include:
- pasture species to be grown on the property
- fertiliser to be used
- management of manure wastes
- details on the proposed stable construction, if applicable
- management of stable wash down water.
Irrigation
Irrigation details should include the:
- area to be irrigated and design of the irrigation system
- quantity, quality and availability of the water source
- irrigation scheduling to avoid run-off and leaching.
Dust
The EMP should also detail activities on the site that have potential to generate dust and the appropriate dust suppression methods to be used.
Odour
The EMP should detail the proposed management of odours.
It is advised that you discuss your proposal in detail with the LGA’s planning and environmental officers prior to preparing an EMP. This will enable you to clearly identify the issues that relate specifically to your property.
The preparation of an EMP may be undertaken by an environmental consultant on your behalf or by yourself.
Regardless of who prepares the document, you will be required to implement the EMP and should therefore be familiar with the requirements.
An EMP can help you protect your property against degradation, ensure your horses remain healthy and allow you to enjoy your small patch of paradise.