SPF Stakeholder Survey

This survey is used as a control measure to mitigate the risk that SPF is processing material that might originate from a forest where high conservation values are being threatened by the activities of SPF (including contractors).  The letter accompanying this survey should be read prior to completing the survey. Please complete the survey by 10/08/2019.  It should take 8-15 minutes depending on the level of response entered.

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* 1. HCV 1. Forest areas containing globally, nationally and regionally significant concentrations of biodiversity values (eg., endemism, endangered species refugia).
Prior to harvesting a new plantation, SPF undertake a HCV assessment to identify likely rare and endangered species (flora and fauna) within and adjacent to the property (usually within the remnant vegetation) using Nature Maps WA database.  The form HCV Assessment and Management Plan is used for the assessment.  The HCV Assessment and Management Plan is attached to the Timber Harvest Plans and all operators are trained in the Plans at each change of plantation.
Protection measures are entered into the HCV Assessment and Management Plan, such as ensuring all native vegetation is protected from clearing or damage and ensuring machinery and vehicles are excluded from HCV areas.   This is monitored by SPF field staff on a regular basis.  In addition, dieback management protocols entered into the Plan.
 
Is NatureMaps appropriate? Are the controls sufficient?

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* 2. HCV2. Forest areas containing regionally significant large landscape level forests, contained within, or containing the management unit, where viable populations of most, if not all, naturally occurring species exist in natural patterns of distribution and abundance.
In many cases these are considered not applicable at this scale and intensity.  Large landscape level forests are indicated as >10,000 ha by FSC and the size of remnants on private plantation properties are unlikely to impact on landscape values.  In addition, SPF is only processing plantation material so native forests are not being directly impacted.  SPF considers the landscape context of the plantation of origin and any large reserves that are within or adjacent to the plantation.  Controls are to implement machine hygiene and machinery exclusion. 
Are these controls adequate, considering the low probability of large landscape forests occurring in a plantation context?

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* 3. HCV 3. Forest areas that are in or contain rare, threatened or endangered ecosystems.
SPF uses NatureMaps to identify any rare, threatened or endangered ecosystems occurring on the plantations.  The HCV Assessment and Management Plan identifies confirmed values and the relevant protection measures.

Areas of remnant native vegetation within a plantation are clearly identified on harvest plans and associated maps and are protected from harvesting.
In addition, waterways and associated riparian zones have setbacks applied.
SPF regularly monitors the operations to ensure compliance.
Is NatureMaps appropriate? Are controls sufficient?

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* 4. HCV 4. Forest areas that provide basic services of nature in critical situations (eg., watershed protection, erosion control).
The likely values identified include clean water catchments and highly erodible soils.  SPF identifies values using the Dept. of Water WA - Geographical Data Atlas.
Values are confirmed and communicated on the HCV Assessment and Management Plan and associated maps.  Setbacks and access restrictions apply.  Controls are monitored by field staff to ensure compliance.
Is the Geographical Data Atlas appropriate? Are controls sufficient?

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* 5. HCV 5. Forest areas fundamental to meeting basic needs of local communities (eg., subsistence, health).
Potential values include unique sources of drinking water for which a community is critically dependant.  It is very unlikely to occur, however SPF confirms with the landowner if there are any potential values that would meet HCV5. 
Do you agree HCV5 is unlikely to occur on private plantations?

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* 6. HCV 6. Forest areas critical to local communities’ traditional cultural identity (areas of cultural, ecological, economic or religious significance identified in cooperation with such local communities)
When developing the harvest plan, a check is made against any known or registered sites for aboriginal or postcolonial cultural heritage using Dept. of Aboriginal Affairs WA and Inherit (WA): Search heritage places databases.
If sites are detected, protection prescriptions are included on the HCV Assessment and Management Plan and communicated to contractors.
The harvest contractors know that if sites are uncovered they must stop work immediately and inform SPF.
SPF regularly monitors operators to ensure registered cultural heritage is protected from management activities. 
Do you have any comments regarding whether these controls are sufficient at protecting these values during harvesting operations? Are further controls needed?

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* 7. Do you have any other comments you would like to communicate regarding the supply area (Western Australia) or any comments relating to forest managers or the plantation industry in general (positive or negative)?

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* 8. Do you consent to your comments being published in a public summary report (names and contact details will not be included)? 

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* 9. Please provide contact details so SPF can email a response to you.

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