FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019 - MARCH 11, 2019 - Hume Forests
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MARCH 11, 2019
The Forest Management Plan is a guidance document for
staff and stakeholders. Designed to outline the
companies’ strategic framework for achieving sustainably
managed forest estates, compliant with legal obliga�ons
and accredita�on standards.
FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
2019
TECHNICAL MANAGER
HUME FORESTS LTDFOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Background ............................................................................................................................................. 3
1.1 Current Cer�fica�ons ........................................................................................................................................ 3
1.1.1 Cer�fica�on Logo Use ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 The Scope of the Business................................................................................................................................. 3
1.2.1 Estate Descrip�ons .................................................................................................................................... 4
2 Defined Forest Area ................................................................................................................................ 5
3 Chain of Custody ..................................................................................................................................... 6
4 Systema�c Management ........................................................................................................................ 7
4.1 Policy ................................................................................................................................................................. 7
4.2 Forest Management Plan .................................................................................................................................. 7
4.2.1 Legal Right to Manage Lands .................................................................................................................... 7
4.2.2 Legal Compliance ...................................................................................................................................... 7
4.2.3 Significant Aspects and Impacts ................................................................................................................ 7
4.3 Implementa�on................................................................................................................................................. 8
4.3.1 Objec�ves and Targets .............................................................................................................................. 8
4.3.2 Work plans ................................................................................................................................................ 8
4.3.3 Roles, responsibili�es and training ........................................................................................................... 9
4.3.4 Document control ..................................................................................................................................... 9
4.3.5 Emergency planning .................................................................................................................................. 9
4.4 Monitoring and Correc�ve Ac�ons ................................................................................................................. 10
4.4.1 Integrated Management System ............................................................................................................. 10
4.5 Review ............................................................................................................................................................. 11
4.5.1 Annual review of the Forest Management Plan ..................................................................................... 11
4.6 Research .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
5 Stakeholders.......................................................................................................................................... 12
5.1 Stakeholder Engagement Plan ........................................................................................................................ 12
5.2 Iden�fying Stakeholders.................................................................................................................................. 12
5.3 Engaging with Stakeholders ............................................................................................................................ 12
5.4 Communica�on Records ................................................................................................................................. 12
5.5 The impacts of forest opera�ons on Stakeholders ......................................................................................... 13
5.6 Public Disclosure Statements .......................................................................................................................... 13
6 Biodiversity............................................................................................................................................ 14
6.1 The Iden�fica�on of BIODIVERSITY VALUES.................................................................................................... 14
6.2 Maintain or enhance Biodiversity ................................................................................................................... 14
6.3 Significant Biodiversity Values......................................................................................................................... 14
6.4 Maintain or enhance Significant Biodiversity Values ...................................................................................... 14
6.5 Monitoring Biodiversity................................................................................................................................... 15
6.6 Review of Biodiversity ..................................................................................................................................... 15
6.7 Regenera�on ................................................................................................................................................... 15
6.8 Introduced Gene�cs ........................................................................................................................................ 15
6.9 Na�ve Vegeta�on Conversion ......................................................................................................................... 15
7 Forest Produc�vity ................................................................................................................................ 16
7.1 Iden�fy Produc�ve Capacity ........................................................................................................................... 16
7.2 Harvest Plan Prepara�on ................................................................................................................................ 16
7.3 Plan and Monitor Use ..................................................................................................................................... 16
7.4 Infrastructure .................................................................................................................................................. 16
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 1 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
7.5 Silviculture ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
7.6 Establishment .................................................................................................................................................. 16
7.7 Damage to Growing Stock ............................................................................................................................... 17
7.8 Unplanned Fire ................................................................................................................................................ 17
7.9 Non Wood Products ........................................................................................................................................ 17
8 Biosecurity............................................................................................................................................. 18
8.1 Iden�fy Damage Agents .................................................................................................................................. 18
8.2 Maintain Health .............................................................................................................................................. 18
8.3 Weeds and Pests ............................................................................................................................................. 18
8.4 Fire and disturbance regimes .......................................................................................................................... 18
8.5 Rehabilitate Degraded Forests ........................................................................................................................ 18
8.6 Chemical Use ................................................................................................................................................... 18
8.7 Salvage Opera�ons.......................................................................................................................................... 18
9 Soil and Water Resources ..................................................................................................................... 19
9.1 Iden�fy Soil and Water Resources .................................................................................................................. 19
9.2 Water Quality .................................................................................................................................................. 19
9.3 Water Quan�ty................................................................................................................................................ 19
9.3.1 Water Use................................................................................................................................................ 19
9.4 Soil Proper�es ................................................................................................................................................. 19
9.5 Pollu�on .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
10 Carbon ................................................................................................................................................... 21
10.1 Carbon Cycle ................................................................................................................................................... 21
10.2 The Minimisa�on of Fossil Fuel ....................................................................................................................... 21
10.3 The Measurement of Carbon Storage ............................................................................................................. 21
11 Cultural Values ...................................................................................................................................... 22
11.1 Indigenous Peoples Values .............................................................................................................................. 22
11.2 Indigenous Heritage Values............................................................................................................................. 22
11.3 Other Heritage Values ..................................................................................................................................... 22
11.4 Legal and Tradi�onal Values ............................................................................................................................ 22
12 Social and Economic Benefits ............................................................................................................... 23
12.1 Regional Development .................................................................................................................................... 23
12.2 Op�mal Use..................................................................................................................................................... 23
12.3 Illegal Ac�vi�es ............................................................................................................................................... 23
12.4 Skills Development .......................................................................................................................................... 23
12.5 Health and Safety ............................................................................................................................................ 23
12.6 Workers’ Rights ............................................................................................................................................... 23
Appendix A Defined Forest Area..................................................................................................................... 24
Appendix B Register of significant biodiversity values ................................................................................... 27
Appendix C Cultural Heritage Sites ................................................................................................................. 32
Appendix D Glossary of relevant terms .......................................................................................................... 34
Appendix E Acronyms ..................................................................................................................................... 36
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 2 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
1 BACKGROUND
This Forest Management Plan has been prepared as a guidance document to facilitate the con�nual improvement
of the sustainable forest management prac�ced by the three companies established by Global Forest Partners (GFP)
in New South Wales, Australia:
• Hume Forests Limited (HFL) htp://humeforests.com.au
• Snowy Mountains Forests (SMF) htp://snowyforests.com.au
• Southern Cross Forests (SCF) htp://southerncrossforests.com.au
For the purpose of this document these individual Australian en��es will be referred to as ‘the companies’. All estates
are founded on the silviculture of Pinus radiata, a so�wood species that originated from the Monterey Peninsula,
California USA.
The inten�on of this Forest Management Plan is not to duplicate documents pre-exis�ng in the Forest Management
System (FMS) but to provide an explana�on of the individual components of the FMS and its func�on.
1.1 Current Cer�fica�ons
The companies currently maintain cer�fica�ons in:
• Sustainable Forest Management: AS 4708-2013
• Workplace Health and Safety: WHS AS/NZS ISO 4801:2001
• Workplace Health and Safety: OHSAS 18001:2007
• Environmental Management Systems: ISO 14001:2015
1.1.1 CERTIFICATION LOGO USE
Currently, cer�fica�on logos, including the Programme of Endorsement of Forest Cer�fica�on (PEFC) logo, are
displayed only on the companies’ websites.
The AFS Cer�fica�on number is imbedded into the companies’ electronic docke�ng system (LOGR).
1.2 The Scope of the Business
The companies manage so�wood planta�ons located in the Tumut, Tumbarumba, Oberon, Braidwood and Bombala
regions of NSW, and the Bendoc and Towong regions of Victoria.
Planta�on ac�vi�es include; the establishment of planta�ons, the silviculture of growing tree stock, and harves�ng
and haulage of �mber products to customer facili�es. To support these core planta�on management func�ons, the
companies also undertakes quarrying and road construc�on, measures to protect forests from wildfire, pests and
disease and yield monitoring and regula�on. Frequent engagement with the companies’ stakeholders occurs at
various levels, including; distribu�on of opera�onal no�fica�ons, the companies’ par�cipa�on in local pest, disease
and fire control func�ons, and staff representa�on on local, regional and na�onal commitees.
The companies prac�ce sustainable forest management and are commited to con�nual improvement in order to
provide both a safe workplace and an improved forest environment. The companies priori�se the health and safety
of their staff, contractors and visitors; alongside their responsible environmental management of planta�on forests
and our non-planta�on lands which are of significant historical, cultural and intrinsic value.
The companies are commited to delivering long term investor value, in a systema�c, environmentally responsible,
and socially acceptable manner.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 3 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
1.2.1 ESTATE DESCRIPTIONS
1.2.1.1 Hume Forests Limited
Hume Forests Limited was established in 2004 and represents an estate area of approximately 14,300 net planted
hectares. This estate has been amassed by the acquisi�on of established small private planta�ons located in the
Oberon, Tumut and Tumbarumba regions of southern NSW.
1.2.1.2 Snowy Mountains Forests
The Snowy Mountains Forests estate was acquired in 2012 as a result of the liquida�on of the Willmot Forests
Limited managed investment scheme. This estate comprises of approximately 21,100 net planted hectares freehold
and 2,600 net planted hectares leasehold, principally located in both the Bombala and Tumbarumba districts of NSW,
with some planta�ons in the north-eastern corner of Victoria. This acquisi�on originally included several hardwood
planta�ons located in the Northern Rivers district of north-eastern NSW; these planta�ons have since been sold.
1.2.1.3 Southern Cross Forests
Southern Cross Forests estate was established in 2015 and is currently comprised of approximately 8,000 net planted
hectares. This estate has been consolidated by the acquisi�on of mul�ple parcels of private planta�ons and fallow
land, including some residual areas of the Willmot Forests estate, and the Gunn’s and Abbeygate so�wood estates
located near Tumbarumba. Southern Cross Forests is presently opera�ng in the Tumbarumba, Bombala and Oberon
regions, and is ac�vely expanding its planta�on holdings, thus its Defined Forest Area (DFA) may change over �me.
The net area statements and Defined Forest Area of these forestry en��es are not sta�c; historic mapping is subject
to ongoing review and suitable planta�ons mee�ng benchmark criteria of loca�on and produc�vity may be acquired.
Some planta�ons which fail to achieve required benchmarks of produc�vity may be liquidated.
The companies’ estate contains significant areas of non-planta�on land. This land can be in the form of retained
na�ve vegeta�on, firebreaks and tracks, easements, infrastructure, drainage features and ex-planta�on sites listed
for sale.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 4 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
2 DEFINED FOREST AREA
Defined Forest Area is a concept defined by the Australian Standard AS4708-2013, Sustainable Forest Management,
(2013) as being, “An area of forest (including land and water) to which the requirements of the Standard are applied.
It includes productive and non-productive forest areas, streamside reserves, conservation areas, and roads, etc.
“(p.12).
The companies’ Defined Forest Area comprises of land over which they have management control of opera�ons.
Lands excluded from the Defined Forest Area, and on which the companies do not have management control include:
• FCNSW Leasehold Planta�ons
o Where FCNSW has management control
• Private (Third Party) Woodlot Harves�ng
o E.g. harves�ng woodlots owned by third party en��es including Local Government, schools, small
private growers, etc. thus, the companies have no management control
• Freehold Agricultural Land scheduled for sale
o Parcels of acquired land that do not form part of the companies’ long term sustainable opera�ons
The companies’ Defined Forest Area is summarised below and the full statement is updated annually (Appendix A),
with mapping posted on the companies’ websites.
TABLE 1 DEFINED FOREST AREA AS AT JANUARY 2019
NPA Other Lands Total Area
Entity
(ha) (ha) (ha)
Hume Forests Ltd 14,292 4,975 19,267
Snowy Mountains Forest 21,095 16,088 37,183
Southern Cross Forests 7,987 3,177 11,164
Total 43,374 24,240 67,614
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 5 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
3 CHAIN OF CUSTODY
Only products produced from within the Defined Forest Area are atributed as being cer�fied under AS4708-2013.
Products produced from Leasehold Planta�ons and Private Woodlots are not atributed this accredita�on.
The point of origin of wood products (the planta�on) is iden�fied in the Harvest Work Plan, on the Log Dockets and
in the sales invoice. Log dockets produced using the companies’ electronic docket system (LOGR) make a claim of
cer�fica�on where relevant.
The companies manage the harves�ng, extrac�on, loading and transport of �mber products. The Harvest and
Haulage Work Plan specifies the approved haulage route and that all loads of �mber must be accompanied by a Log
Docket (electronic). Point of sale can vary with customer; more commonly sales are undertaken at the mill door. For
a limited number of customers, sales are made at the forest landing.
In consulta�on with our customers, a representa�ve of the companies regularly conducts Chain of Custody
inspec�ons at mill yards where their products point of sale occurs a�er the logs have been debarked and processed
through a scanner.
Customers are consulted annually with an updated Defined Forest Area statement and the companies’ cer�fica�on
status.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 6 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
4 SYSTEMATIC MANAGEMENT
4.1 Policy
The Forest Management Policy explains the companies’ posi�on in rela�on to various aspects of forest management.
Including; the pursuit of con�nual improvement, compliance with legisla�on and the prac�ce of sustainable forest
management. Along with a commitment to stakeholder engagement, and the development and training of
personnel. The policy is based on the requirements outlined in the Australian Forestry Standard AS 4708-2013.
The companies have also developed policies in rela�on to Work Health and Safety and the Environment (HSE). These
are publically available on the companies’ websites.
4.2 Forest Management Plan
The Forest Management Plan is intended to be the key guidance document, outlining and explaining how the
companies’ Forest Management System (FMS) is applied. The FMS is comprised of policies, manuals and procedures,
using a strategic approach to enhance values including the environment, WHS and community integrity, alongside
achieving core business performance.
This document (the Forest Management Plan) is not intended to be an Opera�onal Plan nor to capture all the detail
outlined in ac�vity specific opera�onal procedures.
4.2.1 LEGAL RIGHT TO MANAGE LANDS
The companies’ verifica�on process of their legal right to manage their lands and forests is outlined in the Acquisi�on
and Land Sales Procedure. Following receipt of the Legal Due Diligence report, new proper�es are entered into the
Legal layer of the Land Resource Management (LRM) system. Any ambiguous land tenures are verified by �tle
searches. Legal �tle is also confirmed annually by third party consultants during the Forest Valua�on Appraisal
process.
4.2.2 LEGAL COMPLIANCE
The companies iden�fy applicable legal compliance requirements by monitoring a number of resources including:
• Subscribing to industry legal updates
• No�fica�ons from industry newsleters and associa�ons
• Review of media outlets and statements
• Discussions with stakeholders
Relevant legisla�on is documented and interpreted using a Legal Register. Updates to this register as a consequence
of legal updates may necessitate changes to standard opera�onal procedures (SOPs).
4.2.3 SIGNIFICANT ASPECTS AND IMPACTS
The Risk Register is used to determine the significance of our aspects and impacts.
This Risk Register documents the following risks and opportuni�es:
• Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) risks and opportuni�es
• Environmental risks and opportuni�es
• Business risks and opportuni�es (Property Loss or Damage)
• Reputa�on
• Regulatory Compliance
Business and WHS risks and opportuni�es are described in terms of Hazard and Risk, i.e. what can go wrong, or right?
What are the consequences of something going wrong or right?
Environmental risks and opportuni�es are described by terms Aspects and Impacts:
• Aspects (can be thought of as the CAUSE)
• Impacts (can be thought of as the EFFECT)
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 7 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
Maintenance of the Risk Register is governed by the Risk Management Procedure.
New risks are iden�fied by a number of processes including Site Specific Risk Assessments, inspec�ons and audi�ng.
Following this, new risks are reviewed and included in the Risk Register then communicated to team members.
The Risk Register calculates Significant Risks. The companies define Significant Risks as those risks which have a major
or catastrophic residual consequence (D or E on the Risk Matrix). Significant Risks are considered when the companies
develop their Objec�ves and Targets.
Noteworthy geographic specific values or hazards are captured in/with the LRM system.
Site Specific Risks are documented in Work Plans and communicated at opera�onal start-ups using the Site Specific
Risk Assessment or Toolbox Talks.
Newly iden�fied Significant Risks or task specific risks requiring amended work processes are incorporated into
updated Standard Opera�ng Procedures. These updated procedures are discussed at monthly team mee�ngs, and
then distributed to stakeholders via a Safety Briefing or Toolbox Talk.
4.3 Implementa�on
A system of Standard Opera�ng Procedures (SOPs) has been developed to instruct staff and contractors of the
appropriate steps required to undertake certain tasks.
Some examples of key opera�onal SOPs include:
• Harves�ng and Haulage Procedure
• Biodiversity Procedure
• Site Prepara�on Procedure
• Establishment Procedure
SOPs are supported by other documents including Work Plans, monitoring templates, registers, and guidelines.
4.3.1 OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS
The companies’ objec�ves are incorporated into all procedures and are more comprehensively ar�culated in both
the Annual Strategy Document and the associated Business Plan.
Key Targets (measurable benchmarks to underline the fulfilment of our objec�ves and policy) are outlined in the
Business Plans and within our procedures and quality control templates.
Objec�ves and targets are reviewed annually during the update of the Strategy Document.
4.3.2 WORK PLANS
In accordance with standard procedure, Work Plans are a component of the documenta�on provided to Contractors
to enable them to perform their work func�on. Currently, Work Plan templates and opera�onal maps created using
the LRM system are atached to key Standard Opera�onal Procedures.
The Work Plan template contains provision to address issues such as:
• Planta�on and Compartment details
• Environmental and Cultural values on site and their controls
• Communica�on and WHS
• Risk and Emergency management
• Stakeholder engagement
• Approvals
• Records and Monitoring
• Quality Control
To comply with NSW Planta�on and Reafforesta�on Regula�ons, work plans are retained by the companies for a
period of 7 years.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 8 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
Victorian Harvest Plans must be lodged with the respec�ve local council.
4.3.3 ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND TRAINING
The companies’ corporate structure and the func�ons and obliga�ons of the various posi�ons are ar�culated in the
Roles and Responsibili�es Procedure. This document also contains the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) matrix.
In addi�on the SOP for each ac�vity breaks tasks down to individual steps and allocates the responsibility of each
step to a staff member or contractor.
Staff training needs are assessed using a Training Needs Analysis contained within the Training Register under the
governance of the Training Procedure. This is used to formulate annual training plans. Individual training
requirements are outlined in a staff member’s goal se�ng process.
The contractor workforce competency details are uploaded by individual contractors on the Contractor Registra�on
System.
4.3.4 DOCUMENT CONTROL
The companies have developed a series of documents within its Forest Management System to facilitate the
implementa�on of its business. These documents support the Forest Management Plan and underpin its document
control and implementa�on.
These documents include but are not limited to:
• Policy Posi�ons
• Manuals
• Standard Opera�on Procedures for key ac�vi�es
• Guidance documents
• Registers
• Inspec�on, monitoring and audit templates
• Work and Management Plans
• Safe Work Method Statements
FMS documents are controlled by the Technical Manager and can only be authorised by the General Manager
following a ten day consulta�on period with staff. Consulta�on is achieved through the distribu�on of dra�
documents to all staff to allow for review and comment. Final documents are held in the BLISS system (integrated
management system), under the Controlled Documents tab.
Governance for documenta�on control is provided by the Documenta�on Procedure. All documents are periodically
reviewed with the inten�on of facilita�ng issues such as:
• The iden�fica�on of new Significant Risks
• Changes in legisla�on
• Changes in company structures
• Incorporate con�nual improvement
• To make documents simpler to understand and apply
Document review intervals vary from one year to five years, depending on the document, with specific �meframes
contained within the footer of each document. It should be noted however that documents can be updated at any
�me within these �meframes. Archived documents are stored in an archive folder and can be iden�fied by their
version number.
4.3.5 EMERGENCY PLANNING
The companies manage HSE emergency planning using a systema�c approach at four levels of opera�on:
• Office, Depot and Site evacua�on scenario drills
• Opera�ons evacua�on and emergency planning
• Fire Control Planning
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 9 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
• Whole of Company Emergency Planning
Office and depot evacua�on arrangements are displayed on safety no�ce boards in the office and depots. Each
opera�onal work plan contains an opera�onal evacua�on and emergency plan either in the body of the plan or
outlined in the Site Specific Risk Assessment.
Fire Control planning is facilitated by the annual prepara�on of the Fire Control Plan and the Fire Standard Opera�ng
Procedure.
All Company Emergency Planning is outlined in the Emergency Preparedness Response Procedure.
4.4 Monitoring and Correc�ve Ac�ons
The companies undertake monitoring as part of the Quality Control process to facilitate:
• The quality of our forest products
• The safety of our opera�ons
• The protec�on the environment
• The achievement of targets
• The avoidance of significant risks
• Compliance with legisla�on, codes of prac�ce and procedures
4.4.1 INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The companies operate a third party, integrated management system, referred to as BLISS:
BLISS is an acronym for:
Business Innova�on - Lessons Learnt - Incident repor�ng – Stakeholders - System Improvements
BLISS is the mechanism used by the companies to implement correc�ve ac�ons and con�nual improvement.
Monitoring Examples
The companies apply monitoring and quality control at mul�ple levels of opera�on, for example:
• Planning
o Special Values Assessment Form
o GIS updates on Threatened Species recordings
o GIS updates on Heritage recordings
• Opera�onal
o Quality Control Templates
o WHS & Environmental Inspec�ons
• Inspec�ons
o Office
o Depot
o Equipment
o Fire Season Preparedness
• Audits
o Contractor Audits
o Internal Audits & Reviews
o External Audits
AFS Cer�fica�on
HSE Cer�fica�on
NSW DPI P&R
Financial Audits
Customer Audits
• Repor�ng & Inves�ga�ons
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 10 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
o Opera�onal Repor�ng
o Financial Repor�ng
o Incident Repor�ng and Inves�ga�ons
o Fire Repor�ng and Inves�ga�ons
o Technical & Scien�fic Reviews and repor�ng
All monitoring and record keeping is carried out in accordance with the Monitoring and Measuring Procedure. Audits
are undertaken in accordance with the Audit Procedure.
4.5 Review
The review of management systems occurs at mul�ple levels across the organisa�on including:
• Regular six monthly Management Review commitee mee�ngs as per the Management Review Procedure
• Monthly Team Mee�ngs
• Annual self-assessment of the HSE system
• Audits and inspec�on findings
The correc�ve ac�ons, outcomes and suggested improvements iden�fied from incidents, monitoring, inspec�ons
and audits can iden�fy areas of improvement or new risks not addressed by the organisa�on’s forest management
system. This can lead to the need to review standard opera�ng procedures prior to their scheduled review date.
Reviews of incident inves�ga�ons can also iden�fy the need to amend documents or guidelines.
4.5.1 ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
Adjustments to the net area statements (defined forest area) of the individual forestry estates create the need to
update Appendix A of the Forest Management Plan annually.
This annual review will also include updates to the Forest Management Plan’s content and appendices to ensure
currency with the con�nual improvement of the forest management system.
4.6 Research
The companies partner with exis�ng dedicated research, industry and environmental organisa�ons in order to
collaborate on various projects and research. Smaller opera�onal trials are conducted “in house”.
The companies regularly engage in field trials, environmental projects, threatened species preserva�on projects, staff
training and technological developments with the following organisa�ons:
• Forestry Industry Council of NSW (FIC)
• So�wood Working Group
• Australian Forest and Paper Associa�on (AFPA)
• Forest Corpora�on of NSW (FCNSW)
• TAFE NSW
• Southern Tree Breeders Associa�on (STBA)
• Local Land Services (LLS)
o Riverina
o South East
o Murray
o Central Tablelands
• NSW Na�onal Parks
• NSW Office of Environment and Heritage
• Local Landcare Groups
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 11 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
5 STAKEHOLDERS
As a planta�on estate manager across mul�ple regions within NSW and VIC, the companies have an expansive
network of stakeholders, including:
• Customers
• Contractors
• Neighbouring Landholders
• Other Forest Managers
• Emergency Services
• Government Organisa�ons (State and Federal)
• Local Government
• Non-Government and Community Groups
5.1 Stakeholder Engagement Plan
The companies’ engagement with Stakeholders including engagement authori�es and responsibili�es are outlined
in detail in the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and Media Procedure.
5.2 Iden�fying Stakeholders
The companies’ stakeholders are typically iden�fied through ac�vity interac�ons and communica�ons. Establishing
comprehensive knowledge of neighbouring landholders proves to be a significant challenge for the companies.
Atempts to liaise with Local Government in order to resolve this issue has generally been unsuccessful due to
various privacy policies observed by these en��es. This complicates the legal no�fica�on process for no�fiable
land management ac�vi�es.
Field supervisors may iden�fy stakeholders through informal or unscheduled interac�ons whilst working on-site.
Alongside this, the companies’ websites have a ‘Contact Us’ func�on, as well as email and postal addresses, and
phone numbers listed; new stakeholders are encouraged to u�lise these facili�es to make themselves known to the
companies. All known stakeholders are captured in the companies’ databases.
5.3 Engaging with Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement occurs at several levels:
• Face-to-Face mee�ngs, conversa�ons and leter drops
• Phone, voicemail, text message and radio communica�ons
• Post, emails and public documents
• Mee�ngs, commitees, working groups and conferences
• Website pos�ngs and Media Releases
A large propor�on of our engagement with stakeholders is associated with the no�fica�on of opera�onal ac�vi�es
including harves�ng, road construc�on and chemical spraying.
5.4 Communica�on Records
Stakeholder communica�ons are recorded in mul�ple forms. Whilst it is not prac�cable to record all
communica�ons received by the companies, any communica�on deemed relevant or important is captured in the
following:
• Stakeholder func�on of BLISS
• Work Plan consulta�on and work diary
• Leter and Email correspondence file held in each office
• LRM
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 12 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
5.5 The impacts of forest opera�ons on Stakeholders
The companies’ impact on Stakeholders is outlined in detail in the Stakeholder Engagement Plan, where stakeholders
are classified as either interested or affected. Depending on ac�vity type, each opera�on has stakeholder no�fica�on
protocols to advise affected stakeholders of planta�on ac�vi�es; some ac�vi�es have legal no�fica�on obliga�ons.
5.6 Public Disclosure Statements
The companies’ public disclosure statements are posted on the respec�ve websites. Occasionally, the companies’ will
produce a media statement in accordance to the Media Procedure.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 13 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
6 BIODIVERSITY
Biodiversity is a key value associated with a sustainably managed planta�on estate. Collec�vely, the companies
oversee approximately 24,000 hectares of non-planta�on land. The majority of this land is retained na�ve vegeta�on
which provides habitat for a number of threatened and endemic species, as well as endangered ecological
communi�es. The management of these values is documented in the Biodiversity Procedure.
6.1 The Iden�fica�on of BIODIVERSITY VALUES
Our biodiversity values are iden�fied u�lising a number of sources, including but not limited to:
• Government provided spa�al records of threatened species recordings within 500 metres of our property
boundaries
• Government provided spa�al records of na�ve vegeta�on mapping
• Legal Due Diligence reports and Special Values Assessment post acquisi�on
• Field observa�ons from special values assessments and opera�onal planning
• Liaison with Landcare groups, the NSW LLS and Victorian CMA’s
• Liaison with State Government land managers of forests and na�onal parks
Our priori�es include threatened and endemic species and endangered ecological communi�es.
6.2 Maintain or enhance Biodiversity
Through a process of opera�onal exclusion, the companies are able to conserve and enhance iden�fied biodiversity
values and priori�es. Core planta�on ac�vi�es including site prepara�on, harves�ng and roading, are largely excluded
from areas of high conserva�on value retained na�ve vegeta�on.
Ac�vi�es including weed control, pest management, bushfire control, pine wildling control and fuel reduc�on burning
are examples of works undertaken to maintain or enhance our biodiversity values.
6.3 Significant Biodiversity Values
Significant biodiversity values are iden�fied during a Site Specific Special Values Assessment conducted on
acquisi�on of each property under the companies’ management or when discovered during regular opera�ons. The
extent of the companies’ known significant biodiversity values is indicated by the number of threatened species
and endangered ecological communi�es recorded across the forest estates (Appendix B).
6.4 Maintain or enhance Significant Biodiversity Values
Maintenance of significant biodiversity values is outlined in the Biodiversity Procedure. Work plans for opera�ons at
a planta�on where a significant biodiversity value has been iden�fied will have a descrip�on of the value and its
loca�on mapped. Mapped loca�ons become exclusion areas which are discussed during opera�onal start-up and
documented in the Site Specific Risk Assessment.
In addi�on, the companies have developed a number of Special Value Management Plans for priority biodiversity
values including:
• Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
• Booroolong Frog (Litoria booroolongensis)
• Southern Pigmy Perch (Nannoperca australis)
Addi�onal Special Value Management Plans are developed on a regular basis.
The estates contain a number of State Government Vegeta�on Agreements, where certain vegeta�ve communi�es
have been iden�fied for preserva�on. Ongoing discussions with government organisa�ons are seeking to extend and
enhance these commitments.
Ac�vi�es including weed control, pest management, bushfire control, pine wildling control and fuel reduc�on burning
are examples of works undertaken to maintain or enhance our planta�on estate including our significant biodiversity
values.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
Printed: 20/03/2019 Custodian: Technical Manager Page 14 of 36FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN 2019
6.5 Monitoring Biodiversity
Biodiversity priori�es are monitored using the Vegeta�on Monitoring Procedure developed including recognised
methodologies of vegeta�on monitoring undertaken in NSW. The companies undertake vegeta�on monitoring
biannually on a sample of sites across the estates. The objec�ves of vegeta�on monitoring are to track changes in
vegeta�on condi�on and weed infesta�on. These results are used to determine the effec�veness of the companies’
na�ve vegeta�on management and enable the scheduling of any required works.
Informal monitoring and recording of species sigh�ngs are captured using the BLISS recording applica�on.
6.6 Review of Biodiversity
Biodiversity priori�es are re-assessed annually during the edi�ng of the Forest Management Plan; following
updates of State and Federal government databases. The companies work closely with State Government
departments on joint projects concerning certain biodiversity values. These projects align with biodiversity
priori�es iden�fied by government and are generally a reflec�on of our biodiversity priori�es.
6.7 Regenera�on
The companies’ regenera�on programmes are limited to land rehabilita�on, largely focused on gravel pit
restora�on. The companies do not currently harvest na�ve forests.
6.8 Introduced Gene�cs
As Pinus radiata growers using seed orchard growing stock, the companies’ opera�ons do not pose any risks of
cross pollina�on or gene�c pollu�on of na�ve or retained vegeta�on.
The risk of pine wildings outside of the companies’ planta�on boundaries is controlled by annual programmes
including fuel reduc�on burning; these processes are outlined in the Silvicultural Manual.
6.9 Na�ve Vegeta�on Conversion
The companies do not undertake na�ve vegeta�on conversion on any scale. Minor clearances of na�ve vegeta�on
may be required to facilitate infrastructure development including the construc�on of quarries and roads, and the
maintenance of fence lines. If necessary clearances are conducted according to the relevant State legisla�on.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
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7 FOREST PRODUCTIVITY
7.1 Iden�fy Produc�ve Capacity
Each en�ty manages its so�wood estates by controlling all opera�ons strictly according to Chain of Custody to ensure
no contamina�on of wood product from other en��es or forest growers.
Produc�ve capacity is determined by a series of Yield Tables allocated to individual forest stands. Yield tables capture
current condi�on of the forest and forecast future growth at a stand level. Yield tables are generic for young stands
up to eight years of age; the determina�on of which generic table to use is based on historic yield data or the
performance of adjoining stands. Yield tables based on field inventory are called stand or site specific yield tables.
Site specific yield tables are expected to be more accurate than generic yield tables. The first site specific forest
inventory occurs at approximately eight years of age. The Inventory Manual and annual inventory programme
describes the methodologies used and the planta�ons to be assessed each year respec�vely.
7.2 Harvest Plan Prepara�on
The Yield Tables from forest inventory are applied to the forest modelling tool Woodstock. This tool creates a model
that outlines which planta�ons should be harvested each year to achieve op�mal long term value from the forests.
Limita�ons around seasonal access, market constraints and contractor capacity are applied to the model to generate
the Annual Harvest Plan that is used to develop and drive the companies’ annual budget.
7.3 Plan and Monitor Use
Harvest opera�ons are planned according to the Harves�ng and Haulage Standard Opera�onal Procedure Part A.
This document is used to develop the Harvest Work Plan; the instruc�onal work plan provided to the harvest
contractor. All opera�ons are monitored by the companies’ field supervisors using the Harvest and Haulage Standard
Opera�onal Procedure Part D (Monitoring)
7.4 Infrastructure
Forest roads and tracks are developed to facilitate harvest opera�ons up to two years ahead of requirement, to
enable roads to stabilise and consolidate. The Roading Procedure is used to ensure roads and tracks meet forest code
requirements and minimise any risks of erosion, environmental damage or silta�on.
7.5 Silviculture
The companies’ share a common approach to the silviculture of their so�wood planta�ons; notwithstanding
differences in the original stocking, tree spacing and establishment methods of the acquired planta�ons due to
historical factors.
The forest stands are typically treated with two thinning opera�ons. The first thinning (T1) occurs between the ages
of 12 and 16 years, depending on site produc�vity. Second thinning (T2) generally occurs six years a�er T1. Rota�on
length is generally 28 years however this can vary subject to growth and market access.
Most sites are replanted within two years of previous clear fell (CF) harvest.
Other silvicultural treatments can include the control of woody weeds and na�ve regenera�on, nutrient remedia�on,
and pest and disease control.
7.6 Establishment
Ini�al plan�ngs target a stocking rate of between 1,000 to over 1,400 stems per hectare depending on site
characteris�cs. Plan�ng is done by hand crews between June and September. Typically all sites are second rota�on
sites which precludes the use of plan�ng machines. Site prepara�on can include debris management, ripping and
herbicide applica�on. The companies’ objec�ve is to achieve op�mum u�lisa�on of forest products and value. Clear
fell harvest sites may require some debris management and are then cul�vated by �ne ripping to facilitate tree
plan�ng.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
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Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
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When undertaking debris fuel reduc�on using burning, the companies aim to have all opera�ons completed by mid-
winter to avoid the poten�al of fires during spring and summer.
7.7 Damage to Growing Stock
Thinning opera�ons are monitored by the companies’ field supervisors using the Harvest and Haulage Procedure
Part D (Monitoring). This document includes a methodology for simple and efficient measurement of any damage to
retained stands and growing stock.
7.8 Unplanned Fire
Unplanned fires are managed by the companies using the Fire Management Procedure and the Annual Fire Control
Plan. The Fire Plan is published in October and provided to all field staff, emergency authori�es and contractors. The
companies work very closely with the relevant State emergency authori�es and have a memorandum of
understanding (MOU) with FCNSW to share equipment, technologies and resources in the event of unplanned fires.
Snowy Mountains Forests and Southern Cross Forests have formed the Snowy Forest Industry Brigade (Snowy FIB), a
registered CFA Fire Brigade in Victoria.
7.9 Non Wood Products
The management of non-wood products is outlined in the Minor Forest Use Manual, this document contains
guidelines for:
• Grazing
• Bee Keeping
• Recrea�onal Uses
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
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8 BIOSECURITY
8.1 Iden�fy Damage Agents
The Biosecurity Manual is used to iden�fy poten�al damage agents within the planta�on estates. Recordings of
damage agents are made on the BLISS mobile applica�on. The Technical Forester is responsible for forest health
programmes within the company.
8.2 Maintain Health
An ac�ve Sirex Control programme is conducted annually within the estate; supported by forest health flights and
on-ground inspec�ons of iden�fied issues. The companies work closely with FCNSW and other forest health
specialists to monitor and maintain forest health.
8.3 Weeds and Pests
Weeds and pests are managed according to the Biosecurity Manual. Recordings of weeds and pests are made on the
BLISS mobile applica�on.
The companies par�cipate in a number of Local Land Services coordinated pest control programmes across all
regions, with a strong focus on wild dogs and foxes in the Murray Valley and Bombala regions.
Noxious weed control is conducted annually by seasonal firefigh�ng crews and specialists contractors outside of the
declared fire season.
8.4 Fire and disturbance regimes
The companies’ aim to undertake a Fuel Reduc�on Burning programme each year; subject to suitable seasonal
condi�ons. These opera�ons are normally conducted in conjunc�on with other fire authori�es such as the RFS, NSW
Na�onal Parks and Wildlife Service and/or FCNSW.
8.5 Rehabilitate Degraded Forests
The companies have very few degraded forests that have been iden�fied within the estates. Damaged planta�ons
lands are generally salvaged and re-established, subject to scale limita�ons. Land rehabilita�on ac�vi�es are largely
focused on gravel pit restora�on.
8.6 Chemical Use
Chemical usage within the opera�ons of the companies is largely restricted to the re-establishment phase of the
rota�on, firebreak weed control and noxious weed control. Chemical usage on a broad scale is minimised to one year
in a rota�on length of twenty-eight years. Chemical applica�on is governed by the Chemical Procedure and the
introduc�on of new chemicals is assessed using the New Chemical Assessment Sheet where label applica�ons are
verified. Many of the chemicals used in so�wood forestry are common to those used in agriculture.
8.7 Salvage Opera�ons
Wherever commercially possible, planta�ons damaged by fire, storm, and other damage agents or excessive na�ve
regenera�on are salvaged. Salvaged �mbers need to reach a harvestable age and size before this can occur. Young
and uncommercial damaged planta�ons are typically cleared and burnt. Salvage opera�ons are not undertaken in
any areas of retained na�ve vegeta�on.
NB: All printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version refer to electronic copy.
Document Number: FMS057 Forest_Management_Plan_2019_Consulta�on Last Update: 11 March 2019
Created: Jan 2012 Authorised By: General Manager Review Date: Feb. 2020
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