WETLAND ASSESSMENTS

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions' Geomorphic Wetland Database maps and assigns management categories to all wetlands on the Swan Coastal Plain. Depending on the category, this may restrict or prevent development of the wetland and a designated buffer zone.

The mapped wetland boundaries and categories do not always accurately reflect either the true boundaries or the condition of the wetland, due either to inaccuracies in the orginal mapping or to subsequent changes in land use or vegetation condition.

In recognition of this, the DBCA has published a Wetland Evaluation Methodology for requesting modifications to the database. Depending on the modification desired, the protocol might require ground photography, flora and fauna surveys, soil and groundwater investigations.

Requests for modification are assessed by the DBCA Wetlands Branch. If the Wetlands Branch refuses the request, the matter may be referred to the Director-General of the DBCA for a decision. A further avenue of appeal may be available through the State Administrative Tribunal if a planning application is refused on the basis of the DBCA's advice.

In order to give the best possible chance of success, either through application to the DBCA or through appeal to the SAT, it is essential that the wetland investigation is carried out to a very high standard and all necessary aspects are addressed.

Bayley Environmental Services has undertaken numerous wetland assessments for the purpose of modifying wetland boundaries, management categories and buffer zones. Examples of some of these projects can be found on the PROJECTS page.