2015 Incentives Riparian Guidelines

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Riparian

Incentive Program 2015

Guidelines

Guidelines for individuals, groups and organisations applying for

Funding to implement on-ground works to address the targets identified in the Riparian Incentives Program funded by Local

Land Services Western Region.

Expressions of Interest must be hand delivered or postmarked by 5.00pm: Friday 10 th July

2015

Hand delivery:

To any Western Local Land Services office

Email: admin.western@lls.nsw.gov.au

Fax: 02 6836 2988

For more information

Free call: 1300 795 299 or www.western.lls.nsw.gov.au

Post:

Western Local Land Services

2015 Incentives Program

PO Box 307

Cobar NSW 2835

(EOIs must be postmarked by 5pm on

Friday 10 July 2015)

In partnership with

Catchment Action

NSW

www.lls.nsw.gov.au

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Contents

In partnership with

Contents

Before you Begin:

Western Local Land Services Region

Contact your Local Land Services Office:

Where Funding Comes From:

National Landcare Programme

Catchment Action NSW

Local Land Services Funding Guidelines:

General

Eligibility

Conflict of Interest

Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes

Compliance with existing State and Commonwealth Legislation

Work Health and Safety

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6 i ii

Training

Project timeframe

Financial Guarantee

Project approvals and contracts

Eligibility list for approved but unfunded projects:

Final Inspection

Payment schedule

Unsuccessful applicants

Appeal process for unsuccessful applicants

What happens to the information I provide?

Collection:

Storage:

Access:

Use:

Disclosure:

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Project Risk Management:

Riparian Program Funding Criteria:

Projects involving boundary fences

Projects linking across more than one property

Minimum standards for some infrastructure

Exact details on materials to be used

Terminology

Fence Designs

Option A

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Local Land Services Western Region ii

Option B

End Assemblies

Floodway designs

Overland Flow Areas

Lodging an application

Assessment process

Project Budgets:

Project Plan/Map:

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

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Local Land Services Western Region iii

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Before you Begin:

The managers of land within the Western Region (see map below) are invited to participate in the 2015

Incentives Program. Only land managers who submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 5pm on Friday 10 th

July 2015 will be eligible to proceed to the application stage of the Incentives Program.

We will acknowledge receiving your Expression of Interest and then assign a local staff member to help you develop a full application by the closing date of 5pm on Wednesday 30 th September 2015. Application forms will be available from Monday 3 rd of August 2015 to land managers who submitted an EOI.

Local Land Services Western Region

Local Land Services Western Region 4

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Contact your Local Land Services Office:

The best approach is by working with the staff of your Local Land Services. Local Land Services Western

Region staff are available to assist you in submitting the strongest possible application for your project.

Aboriginal land managers can also contact local Aboriginal Communities Officers. Below are the staff members who will be working as case officers for Incentives 2015.

Address

Location Staff Contact Phone

Jennifer Azevedo

Bourke

Isobel Colson

Guy Gibbs

(Aboriginal Communities)

Brewarrina

Courtney Ellery

Blackie Gordon

(Aboriginal Communities)

Broken Hill Mitch Plumbe

(02) 6870

8628

(02) 6870

8621

(02) 6870 8629

(02) 6870 8630

0428 607 536

(08) 8082 5205

21 Mitchell Street / PO Box 342

Bourke NSW 2840

24 Bathurst Street / PO Box 3

Brewarrina NSW 2839

32 Sulphide Street / PO Box 692

Broken Hill NSW 2840

Tanya Cooper (03) 5021 9460

Buronga

Cobar

Rob Dini

Ben Slingsby

(03) 5021 9430

(03) 5021 9430

32 Enterprise Way / PO Box 363

Buronga NSW 2739

Ronni O'Donnell

(Aboriginal Communities)

Brian Dohnt

(03) 5021 9429

(02) 6836 1575

Amy Gunn

62 Marshall Street / PO Box 307

Cobar NSW 2835

Where Funding Comes From:

Local Land Services Western Region utilises funds from the Australian Government’s National Landcare

Programme as well as Catchment Action NSW which have specific long term targets. Projects will be offered funding based on the merit of the project and the availability of funds.

National Landcare Programme

The National Landcare Programme is part of the Australian Government’s investment in managing natural resources. This programme is comprised of two streams, one of which delivers funding through regional bodies (e.g. Local Land Services). Regional bodies must demonstrate their ability to deliver against the

National Landcare Programme’s strategic objectives and targets and funding may only apply to specific activities and areas of the Local Land Services Western region.

National Landcare Programme funding has been provided to Local Land Services Western Region to achieve biodiversity outcomes by improving and enhancing groundcover across the Western region. This

Local Land Services Western Region 5

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015 outcome can be related directly to the installation of riparian fencing, off-stream water points, and improved grazing management.

Riparian areas include rivers, floodplains, billabongs, creeks, wetlands and lakes. The condition of these areas is vital to water quality and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. There are also significant benefits to livestock production and in turn business viability.

In the Western Region, riparian zones are complex and have highly variable flows. Droughts may be followed by heavy rains which fill thousands of small creeks, flooding the wetlands and lakes, flowing across the floodplains creating new watercourses and reaching widely dispersed billabongs and waterholes. Water supports and attracts life. It provides habitat for plant and animal biodiversity and supports commerce through industry, irrigation and domestic use.

For more information on the National Landcare Programme http://www.nrm.gov.au/

Catchment Action NSW

Catchment Action NSW funding is primarily targeted at Management Targets identified in the Local Land

Services Western Region Strategic Plan. This is a ten-year plan for improving and managing natural resources in the Region. It specifies how Local Land Services will allocate funds approved under the current four year investment strategy and direct future funding in order to manage the Region ’s natural resources.

Local Land Services Funding Guidelines:

General

All on-ground works are to be conducted on land within the Western Local Region.

You must not commence your project until you have signed a contract with Local Land Services.

Your project may be used by Local Land Services for demonstration and/or promotional purposes with your consent.

If you have any questions about project eligibility or other concerns about the project proposal form you should contact your nearest Local Land Services Western Region office.

Eligibility

Applications are invited from all land managers including individuals, groups, non-government organisations, not-for-profit organisations; Local Government and State Government agencies (core functions of government agencies will not be funded).

Where an applicant is not the owner/lessee of the land, specific permission will be required from the owner/lessee to implement the project. Written permission from the owner/lessee will be required before approval.

Applicants with current Local Land Services Western Region (formerly CMA) and/or National

Landcare Program projects that are not compliant with contract conditions as at September 30 th

2015 will not be eligible for funding. This includes applicants with outstanding monitoring records.

Local Land Services Western Region 6

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Conflict of Interest

Nonprofessional relationships with Local Land Services Western Region staff or board members may be perceived as a conflict of interest. Local Land Services Chairs and Board members and their spouse, parents and children or adopted children and/or Staff and their spouse, parents and children or adopted children who are interested in applying for the 2015 Incentives Program are required to submit an application to the Local

Land Services Conflict of Interest Subcommittee. The Conflict of Interest will be assessed, consistent across all Local Land Service regions to determine the best approach to managing a real or perceived conflict of interest. It should be noted that the default position of Local Land Services is removal of the conflict, in which case participation in Local Land Services Incentive Funding may not be permitted. If you are concerned that a perceived conflict of interest may impact on your application please contact Russell Grant, Manager

Regional Specialist Services (02 6836 1575).

Monitoring and evaluation of outcomes

If your project is funded you will be required to undertake basic monitoring of your projects environmental outcomes. This monitoring information will assist Local Land Services to assess project and applicant successes which is necessary to justify future funding rounds.

Landholder monitoring (see current MERI guidelines) will be required yearly, for the whole ten years of the contract.

Monitoring guidelines will be provided by Local Land Services Western Region.

At times, Local Land Services staff may require property access for project monitoring purposes. You will be advised in advance of any access requirements.

Compliance with existing State and Commonwealth Legislation

Local Land Services only approves the amount of funding for your project. This does not authorise you to implement the project. You must ensure that your project has all necessary approvals, licenses, permits, consents, etc. and that your project complies with all relevant legislation including, but not restricted to, the following:

Legislation

Native Vegetation Act 2003

(NSW)

Threatened Species

Conservation Act 1995 – NSW

How is it relevant? More information

Western Lands Act 1901 (NSW) Western Lands Lease conditions www.lpma.nsw.gov.au

National Parks and Wildlife Act

1974 (NSW)

Protection of Cultural Heritage sites www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Clearing of native vegetation for fence lines, pipe lines (RAMAs) www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979 – NSW

Protection of threatened species and endangered ecological communities when installing infrastructure www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Impact of project proposal on threatened species and/or ecological communities www.planning.nsw.gov.au

Local Land Services Western Region 7

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Local Land Services Act 2013 –

NSW

Project proposals must be located within the Local Land

Services Western Region

Water Management Act 2000 –

NSW

Impact of project proposals on streams, flow of water www.lls.nsw.gov.au

www.water.nsw.gov.au

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Act 1997

Infrastructure must be compliant with codes www.dpi.nsw.gov.au

Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Safe work method statements and reporting (see information on

Work Health and Safety below) www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

Work Health and Safety

All successful applicants for the Riparian Incentive Program will be working in partnership with Local Land

Services not only to deliver their project on time and budget, but also to ensure that all activities carried out will meet the obligations of the NSW Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

What does this mean for Local Land Services?

We are a PCBU (‘person conducting a business or undertaking’) under the Act.

We must demonstrate due diligence to ensure undertakings comply with the Act.

 Any person contracted to undertake activities by Local Land Services is a ‘worker’ under the Act. This includes landholders funded for works on their own property plus sub-contractors.

We must ensure successful applicants have systems in place to meet Work Health and Safety standards and have demonstrated procedures for recording incidents.

What does this mean for successful applicants?

Successful applicants must work with Local Land Services to demonstrate adequate identification of risks and hazards in workplaces.

Strategies (safe work practices) must be developed and actions implemented to minimise these risks and hazards.

A sound process exists for recording and reporting work health and safety incidents. Incidents must be reported to Local Land Services Western Region.

What does this mean if a sub-contractor is engaged?

Under the Act, Local Land Services and landholders retain Work, Health and Safety obligations for any sub-contractor that may be engaged under this program.

Training

Local Land Services Western Region will offer training to all land managers who submit an expression of interest for the 2015 Incentives Program. Tactical Grazing Management workshops will coincide with the application period and are intended to assist with project proposals by building applicant’s capacity to develop a management plan.

Local Land Services Western Region 8

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Applicants are asked to indicate on their Expression of Interest form whether they would like to they attend one of these workshops. For further information please speak to Local Land Services staff.

Project timeframe

Land managers who are successful in their application to the 2015 Incentive Program will enter into contracts allowing up until the 2 nd December 2016 for the completion of on ground works . Applicants must demonstrate that their project is achievable in the given timeframe with consideration given to competing priorities.

Local Land Services contracts require ongoing management of project infrastructure and outcomes for ten years.

Financial Guarantee

All applicants to Local Land Services Western Region Programs are required to demonstrate that they are financially viable to deliver their proposed works in the contracted time frame. To this effect a personal guarantee or a letter of guarantee by the app licant’s financial advisor (e.g. accountant) is required in order for the application to proceed to assessment. A template for this purpose will be provided by Local Land

Services Western Region and must be submitted with your Incentive application. Templates will be available along with the program application form Monday 3 rd August 2015.

Applicants proposing a project with a Local Land Services contribution of $50,000 (ex. Gst) or greater will be required to submit either a letter of comfort from the app licant’s banking institution specifying that their contribution to the on ground works can be met and the project will be completed according to the contracted conditions or a personal guarantee to that affect.

Project approvals and contracts

You will be advised in writing if your project has been approved and placed on an eligibility list.

Once approved projects have been ranked, funds will be allocated to each project down the list. This will be a progressive process until all funds available in the Riparian Incentives Program budget are spent or the project eligibility list is exhausted.

If your proposal is funded, you will be contacted in writing by Local Land Services and an offer of contract for your project will be made. The contract will be granted for a period of ten years and will detail the negotiated outputs and outcomes of the project. Before a contract is signed, applicants must complete the

Boundary fencing agreement (if applicable).

It is your responsibility to accept the contract by the given deadline, or decline the funding and notify Local

Land Services. All project establishment works must be completed by Friday 2 nd December 2016.

Note: Projects are allocated funds in order from the highest rank down the eligibility list until funds are fully subscribed in the relevant funding source. However, due to priorities in funding allocations, priority may be given to projects which achieve outcomes in specific areas as identified by the Australian Government.

Eligibility list for approved but unfunded projects:

If your project is approved but misses out on funding when program funds are fully allocated to higher ranking projects, it will remain on an eligibility list.

Funds may become available if contract offers are declined. The next ranked project on the eligibility list is then allocated funds.

Where the newly available funds are not sufficient to fund the next ranked project, the funds are allocated to the next project on the eligibility list that can be fully covered by the available funds.

Local Land Services Western Region 9

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Once the eligibility list expires (when no further funding opportunities are available), applicants will need to reapply for any future funding rounds.

Final Inspection

All projects funded through Riparian Incentives Program are required to undergo a final inspection to complete the project and initiate final payment. Final inspections are carried out by Local Land Services officers who will negotiate;

A suitable timeframe with you to conduct the inspection.

Check all infrastructure against the contract. The contract will usually comprise of the information provided in the application form and any negotiated outcomes. This will include the quality of material, the location of infrastructure, the amount of materials used etc.

GPS locations of key points and infrastructure in order to accurately record the project for future monitoring.

Discuss with you your ongoing monitoring and reporting requirements.

Please Note: Any changes to contracted outcomes that do not have a written variation approval on file could constitute grounds for cancellation of the contract, thus forfeiting the final payment.

Payment schedule

If you accept the contract, fifty percent (50%) of Local Land Services funds identified in the budget will be paid to you within six weeks of signing the contract and submitting the first invoice.

A progress payment of twenty-five percent (25%) of the total Local Land Services funds allocated will be made available upon successful inspection of at least 75% of the contracted works.

Upon completion of the on-ground works, your project will require a final inspection by a Local Land

Services officer. If satisfactory, the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) will be paid within two months of the final inspection report, tax invoice and monitoring data being submitted.

If the works are deemed unsatisfactory, the final payment may be withheld, funds recovery action may be taken and restrictions on future funding may occur. Appropriate measures to remedy the issue will be discussed.

If you are not in a financial position to carry out the project given the above payment schedule it is advised that you forfeit the grant and re-apply when financially capable.

Please keep your local case officer informed of project progress.

Funding grants are considered taxable income by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). However, applicants should consult their financial advisors or the ATO about the tax implications of a Local Land

Services grant.

Unsuccessful applicants

You will be notified in writing if your project is unsuccessful.

You may seek additional advice/discussion from Russell Grant, Manager Regional Specialist Services (02

6836 1575)

Appeal process for unsuccessful applicants

The Western Local Board will review any appeals. The Board’s determination will be final.

Local Land Services Western Region 10

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

An application for appeal must be made in writing to Russell Grant, Manager Regional Specialist Services

PO Box 307, Cobar NSW 2835 stating the reasons for the appeal.

No new information is considered; the appeal is based on what is provided in the application form.

Appeals are assessed bi-monthly at Western Local Board meetings.

The result of your appeal will be provided in writing and can be discussed if requested.

If your appeal is successful, your project will be placed on the eligibility list based on your original assessment score.

What happens to the information I provide?

Collection:

Project proposal information collected is used to assess your application and to contact you. Please contact Local Land Services if you believe the information collected is not relevant or is excessive.

A statutory declaration is provided at the bottom of the Application Form for you to provide consent for

Local Land Services to use and store the information for assessment purposes and to be entered onto the public register. Additionally, the statutory declaration indicates the information was collected directly from you and is accurate.

People involved in the collection, assessment and processing of the Riparian Incentive Program will view your information. These people are required by law to not disclose your information.

Storage:

Your information will be stored in secured files within the Local Land Services Western Region offices.

The information will be kept for the organisational life of Local Land Services or subsequent agencies responsible for natural resource management. Local Land Services staff only, for work purposes, will have access to your information.

Access:

You are able to view or correct this information at your request in business hours.

Use:

Consent will be sought for any use of the collected information outside Local Land Services.

Disclosure:

The amount of funds granted, applicant name, location and brief project description will be placed on the

Local Land Services public register. This will take effect if the applicant enters into a contract with Local

Land Services.

The purpose of the public register is to inform the community where public natural resource management funding is directed in the region and additionally, to ensure integrity, honesty and transparency in the administration of the Riparian Incentive Program.

Local Land Services Western Region 11

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Project Risk Management:

Risk assessment is a requirement in all Local Land Services operations under the Natural Resources

Commission Performance Standard for Local Land Services.

This process will assist in identifying what could go wrong in the ‘implementation’ of your project – the actual on-ground works. It should be a valuable tool to identify weaknesses and develop a more robust project plan.

Please Note: All projects will have associated risks. Achieving a high or extreme rating on your risk assessment does not mean that your project will be rejected. What we are seeking is that the applicant identifies and understands the associated risks and determines management actions to counter the risk.

Local Land Services will use the table below to establish the likelihood and consequence levels of the identified risk. Then cross-match the likelihood and consequence values to establish the risk rating (Low,

Moderate, High or Extreme).

Likelihood

Almost certain

Likely

Possible

Unlikely

Rare

Consequence

Negligible

Medium

Low

Low

Low

Low

Minor

Medium

Medium

Low

Low

Low

Moderate

High

Medium

Medium

Medium

Low

Major

High

High

High

Medium

Medium

Catastrophic

Extreme

Extreme

High

Medium

Medium

Once the risks are identified they can be accepted (some risks cannot be managed), controlled or eliminated.

Describe the actions you will take to manage the identified risk in the Project Risk Management Table in the

Application.

Example

Risk identified Actions required to manage risk

Unable to complete project in timeframe due to competing priorities

Source contractors to complete works

Source additional labour

Prioritise tasks accordingly

Contact Local Land Services

Office Use Only

Likelihood Consequence

Possible Major

Risk

Rating

High

Possible Major High Machinery breakdowns or unavailable

Source contractors to complete works

Source additional machinery from neighbour

Undertake maintenance prior to commencement of works

Other risks to consider:

Natural disasters – floods, fire, Contractors, suppliers, Machinery condition, cash flow changes, illness, motivation, time management.

Local Land Services Western Region 12

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Riparian Program Funding Criteria

This program is focused on controlling the impact of grazing species on riparian zones and providing infrastructure for improved riparian zone management. The project must be focused on improving the condition of the area through increased groundcover and riparian vegetation.

To ensure that the funding is allocated effectively and fairly we require well thought out project applications.

Please ensure that you have read through and understood each of the particular details required to submit a complete application.

Applicants should consider the following in preparing their project application:

 ‘Limited Strategic Grazing’ will be permitted to enable crash grazing of rank growth. Stock access must be restricted to avoid wet periods (heavy rainfall and flood), very dry conditions and periods of seed set for riparian vegetation. Properties looking to manage stock within the riparian zone need to clearly specify how they plan to manage their domestic grazing pressure. The grazing impact of domestic livestock should be minimal and with consideration to land type, condition of vegetation and soil stability.

Management of grazing pressure from unmanaged goats and excessively high populations of Kangaroos should be addressed.

The landholder is to control/manage all noxious and environmental weeds within the riparian area. Only chemicals registered for use around waterways may be used for weed control.

Control activities which result in soil disturbance within forty meters from the top of the stream banks should be discussed with your Local Land Services Case Officer. A Controlled Activity Permit under the

Water Management Act (2000) may be required.

Cultural sites must be protected from damage at all times therefore if required fence lines will be relocated away from timbered areas so that scar trees, midden sites and culturally significant areas can be protected. An on-ground assessment may be required where proposed works are considered a high risk to cultural heritage sites. This process is intended to assist land managers in identifying sites and reduce their risk of causing damage to a cultural heritage site.

The landholder is not to clear native vegetation, whether remnant or regrowth, or remove any standing or fallen dead timber from this project area. All works must be consistent with the Native Vegetation Act

2003 .

All floodw ays, culverts and crossings are consistent with ‘fish friendly’ design principles

(www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries)

Infrastructure funded through this program is only the first step towards achieving the desired outcomes. A thorough and strategic management plan is required for the ongoing management of the project area.

Riparian management plans must include not only grazing control but also the impact of weeds and pest animals. Weed management must be addressed in relation to the likelihood of an infestation occurring upstream (impacting on the project area) and also how present and future infestations will be managed for the duration of the management agreement. Pest management, specifically of feral pigs, should be considered in the proposal.

Existing internal fences and standards will need to be detailed during the mapping stage, this can be done with assistance from your Local Land Services case officer. Fencing proposals must demonstrate that they will fully enclose/exclude a riparian area. Projects may score higher if they are adding onto existing total grazing pressure and/ or riparian fencing. The proposed type of riparian fencing is to be demonstrated in the application as well as a strategy for maintaining it for the 10 year life of the project.

Special consideration should be taken for the impact of infrastructure on the riparian zone, including the following.

Demonstrated flood-water mitigation in the fence design.

Troughs with concrete aprons/robust materials to minimise soil disturbance around water points.

Local Land Services Western Region 13

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Any pump site is to be adequately protected from livestock, flood or other damage.

Water point placement should be in-line with an integrated property management plan.

Note that 50 meters is the minimum distance from the top of the river bank for the fence to be erected to ensure riparian enclosure. Applicants should take into account the high water line, avoid clearing of large trees subsequently reduce the risk of damage to cultural heritage sites of riparian areas; proposals which are designed accordingly may be assessed more favorably.

The pump and pipe size is based on the requirements of the project, not any future works for the property unless applicant covers the extra costs over and above the minimum costing ratio.

Protection of both sides of a river stretch will receive a higher score. This will, more than likely, involve cooperation with your neighbour.

Please see minimum standards for infrastructure for further specifications.

The funding will be provided on a cost-sharing basis, with Local Land Services Western Region stipulating an amount per km that will be offered, dependent on fence type and standard.

Projects involving boundary fences

It is anticipated that a proportion of eligible projects will include upgrades to boundary fencing. However landholders/lessees are required by the Western Lands Act 1901 to have a stock proof boundary fence suitable to the enterprise (e.g. dorpers, cattle etc.) therefore as the responsibility of upgrading fences to match their enterprise is the landholders/lessee ’s Local Land Services will only fund certain components of boundary fences. Both sides of the boundary fence are required to be cleared to ensure long-term fence maintenance.

It is necessary to clearly state the level of involvement from each neighbour. For approved projects involving a section of boundary there will be an agreement to sign between all parties involved in the project which clearly articulates the roles and responsibilities of each party. This declaration must state that they are aware of the project and that they are either involved financially, in-kind or not at all. Contracts will not be issued without a completed fencing agreement (where a section of boundary is involved).

Projects linking across more than one property

The intent of the program is to fund enclosed riparian areas for improved groundcover/vegetation outcomes.

This may entail two (or more) properties working together on a section of waterway or riparian zone to secure a ‘landscape scale’ outcome. This type of project will require neighbours working together and to each have a management plan that compliments one another. Contracts will be with individual legal entities.

Applications will receive a higher ranking based on exceptional landscape values, i.e. where a project falls within a RAMSAR wetland or completely secures a riparian corridor, the differential management of such an area may have significant landscape scale benefits and would therefore be considered on the added merit of the proposal.

Minimum standards for some infrastructure

Below are the standard fence designs for the Riparian Incentive Program and the amount per km Local

Land Services will contribute to each particular design. Applicants can select the fence most appropriate to their operation and the level to which it is required (i.e. new or upgrade). Materials will still need to be specified in the final application, however quotes and costs are not required. Minimum standards for water point infrastructure are also listed, with a set funding contribution from Local Land Services.

Local Land Services Western Region 14

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Exact details on materials to be used

It is required that all materials to be used in the proposal are to be specified. This includes, for instance, the brand, style and diameter of fencing wire. If during the final inspection it is found that materials have been used that are not of the same standard of those listed in the application the final payment may be withheld and applicants may be ineligible for future funding.

The material inventory should assist in developing the project application. Material specifications will form part of the assessment and proof of materials used (invoices) may be required for final inspection.

Terminology

New Fence : New internal fencing including end assemblies. (Does NOT include boundary fence, or existing non-TGP internal fence, regardless of current condition).

Upgrade fence : Upgrade of existing or boundary fencing. (Does NOT include end assemblies even when replacement of fence is required)

New and Upgrade fencing MUST meet minimum TGP standards. Projects will not be considered unless they fully enclose an area to the minimum standard.

Clearing Rate 1 : Light grade only required to level fence line (site preparation)

Clearing Rate 2 : Minimal mechanical clearing additional to site preparation

Clearing Rate 3 : Substantial mechanical clearing required, includes grading. (Applicant to justify – ineligible on upgrade fencing)

Local Land Services Western Region Staff can advise you as to the appropriate rate for clearing – please note that applications are ranked competitively based on criteria which includes value for money – assessment panels may stipulate the rate for clearing.

Fence Designs

Option A (Hinged joint 7/90/30)

Minimum Standard Description:

Hinged joint (7/90/30) with 2.5mm top and bottom wire.

2.5mm High Tensile top and belly plain wire supports (clipped).

2.8mm High Tensile top and bottom plain wire (clipped).

165cm Star Pickets @ 10m spacing.

<500M Strainer spacing

Local Land Services Western Region 15

Fencing Standard

All new internal fence

LLS ( km)

$2,700/km

$2,100/km Replacement boundary or upgrade fence

Clearing Rate 1 $100/km

Clearing Rate 2 (where required) $500/km

Clearing Rate 3 required)

(justification $700/km

Option B

Minimum Standard Description:

Eleven Line Plain Wire 2.5mm

165cm Star Pickets @ 10m spacing

2 droppers per 10m spacing

<500m strainer spacing

Fencing Standard LLS ( km)

All new internal fence

Replacement boundary or upgrade fence

Clearing Rate 1

Clearing Rate 2 (where required)

Clearing Rate 3 (justification required)

$2700/km

$2,100

$100/km

$500/km

$700/km

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Landholder (estimate)

$1,300/km

$1,050/km

Total (estimate)

$4,000/km

$3,150/km

$100/km

$500/km

$700/km

Landholder

(estimate)

$1300/km

$1,050

$100/km

$500/km

$700/km

$200/km

$1000/km

$1400/km

Total (estimate)

$4000/km

$3,150/km

$200/km

$1000/km

$1400/km

Local Land Services Western Region 16

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

End Assemblies

Funding provided for new internal fence only – not for boundary or existing internal upgrades.

Note that the installation of gates is at the applicant’s expense.

Option A

Strainer assembly.

Option B

Full box assembly.

Option C

Double Box assembly.

LLS

$150

Landholder

(estimate)

$150

LLS

$210

Landholder

(estimate)

$210

LLS

$280

Landholder

(estimate)

$280

Floodway designs (where necessary for gullies/streams)

Applicable to a defined channel only – Local Land Services staff to advise if appropriate.

Minimum Standard Description:

End Assemblies either side of waterway

4mm Bull wire on top

Sheep yard mesh hinged from top wire

Weighted centre section (50mm pipe or equivalent)

LLS

$40/meter

Landholder

$30/meter

(estimate)

Overland Flow Areas

Consideration will need to be given for overland flow-lines and broad floodplains. These areas are not

‘gullies’ as such, but include areas of shallow low-flow in rain events with large volumes of water and debris.

Fence designs will need to accommodate the movement of debris and the additional pressure of flow and

Local Land Services Western Region 17

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015 sediment. This may include a heavy top (hinge) wire with droppers, additional hinged joint, or weld-mesh weighted to depth of flow area.

No additional funding is available for overland flow areas, however, designs for these areas need to be approved in the application.

Designs must include:

End assemblies constructed at either side of the water way

Swinging mesh added to bottom of the fence where distance is greater than 10cm from the ground

Water Infrastructure

A maximum of two watering points will be considered. Watering points must be placed in the paddock adjacent to the proposed area. The water points should be located no further than half way (fifty percent) across the paddock at a spacing of not less than 2km. Watering points will only be funded in conjunction with an eligible fencing proposal.

Proposals must justify the placement of watering points in relation to the optimal grazing radius, depending on the type of livestock and with consideration to a broader property plan.

Minimum standards for water infrastructure:

22,500 Litre tank (up to two watering points)

16’ concrete trough with a robust apron/base (1 trough per tank)

50mm poly, minimum depth of poly trench 600mm

Pump must be of a standard suitable to the scale of the project, LLS will specify a maximum contribution

The funding will be provided on a cost-sharing basis, with Local Land Services Western Region stipulating an amount per unit/meter that will be offered.

Water infrastructure type

Pump

LLS Contribution

Poly Line (50mm)

Tank (min 22,500 Litre/ 5000 gallon)

16’ Concrete trough

Fittings (grouped cost per tank/trough unit)

Clearing

2:1 cost sharing ratio (LLS: Landholder) up to a maximum LLS contribution $ 6,000. Quote for pump must be provided to LLS

$3.00 per meter (cost of trenching included in contribution)

$1900 per tank

$700 per trough (must have robust apron)

$500

See clearing rates listed

Lodging an application

If you believe that your project fits the criteria and you have submitted an Expression of Interest by 5pm

Friday the 10 th July 2015 you will have a case officer assigned to you. Application forms will be available from Monday the 3 nd of August 2015 .

Local Land Services Western Region 18

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Applications will be assessed if they are received or post-marked by 5pm Wednesday the 30 th September

2015 . You will receive an acknowledgement to confirm receipt of your application.

Assessment process

Your application will be assessed by an independent technical panel and ranked accordingly. Based on the information provided the assessment panel will:

confirm that your project meets the funding criteria/eligible activities (see prior page)

determine if the proposal is up-to-date with current best management practices

assess cost-effectiveness based on the area (Ha) of land under management

score your application and deem eligible or ineligible. Weightings allocated to each question can be found throughout the application, i.e. see table below

rank all eligible applications

the panel may suggest modifications to projects to improve outcomes.

The questions below are to be used as a guide only, assessment questions will be provided with your application.

Question No.

1

2

3

4

5

6

Assessment Questions

To what extent does the applicant’s prior experience indicate a commitment to achieving Riparian management outcomes? (or others)

To what extent is the proposal appropriate to achieve riparian management outcomes?

To what extent are materials and clearing requirements clearly specified and fit for purpose?

To what extent are the water point and fence designs appropriate to the proposal?

To what extent is this a cost effective proposal in relation to the overall project?

Are risks to the project implementation identified and adequately addressed?

Appendix B

To what extent has the applicant demonstrated the ability to complete the project or other projects in the specified timeline?

10 Year Riparian Management Plan

Appendix C

To what extent is the applicant’s project aim consistent with the intended outcomes of the program? (relates to overall property direction)

Appendix C

Appendix C

Appendix C

To what extent do the proposed management actions for this project achieve desirable groundcover and Native

Vegetation outcomes? (relates to specific project)

To what extent are the monitoring techniques and the proposed responses appropriate? (address native vegetation, weed and pest animal impact)

To what extent have the risks to the project outcomes been identified and adequately addressed?

Scheme

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

1 - 10

Weighting

10%

30%

10%

10%

20%

10%

10%

30%

30%

20%

20%

Local Land Services Western Region 19

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Project Budgets:

The budget is a very important aspect to every project application as it provides the assessors with a detailed understanding of the proposed activities. It is also used to determine how cost-effective the project is.

A project may incorporate several different sections including new or upgraded fences, overland flow areas, different clearing requirements, multiple corners (i.e. end assemblies). Applicants are required to indicate the quantities of each component required and, with the prices indicated, calculate the total of the grant applied for.

Example below:

No. of

Km

Fencing

Option A (hinged joint w/plain) / km

Option B (11 plain wires) / km

Upgrad e

Fence

5Km

No. of Km

New

Fence

Option A (strainer assembly)

Option B (full box assembly)

Option C (double box assembly)

Tank

Poly Pipe (per Meter)

Trough

Fittings

Price per Km

Upgrade

Price per Km

New internal

$2,100

$2,100

$2,700

$2,700

Fencing Total:

No. of

Assembli es

8

4

4

End assemblies

N/A

N/A

N/A

$ 150.00

$ 210.00

$ 280.00

End Assembly Total:

1

1000

1

1

Water Infrastructure

$1,900

$3.00 per meter

$700

$500

Total cost

Local Land

Services

$10,500

$10,500

$1,200

$840

$1,120

$3,160

$1,900

$3,000

$700

$500

Pump (specify unit details)

Clearing rate 1

Clearing rate 2

Clearing rate 3

Floodway fencing / meter

Water Infrastructure Total:

Other costs

Grundfos 2 Panel

Solar ($6,200)

Contribution 2:1 (LLS: Landholder) Maximum of

$6,000

Amount

Amount

Amount

Amount

9 Km

2 Km

Km

10 M

$100/km

$500/km

$700/km

$40/Meter

Grand Total:

$6,100

$4,133

$900

$1000

$25,793

Local Land Services Western Region 20

Riparian Incentive Program Guidelines 2015

Project Plan/Map:

Maps for the project application will be developed in conjunction with Local Land Services staff. Note that the location of infrastructure will be GPS located in your map and will therefore form part of your contract. It is important that you indicate the location of proposed works carefully as the information provided will be legally binding.

Applicants are also invited to submit additional maps to illustrate their project plans.

Sample project map

Local Land Services Western Region 21

www.lls.nsw.gov.au

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