Construction

Advice on minimising potential negative impacts on threatened species of any type of construction, from houses to wind turbines to roads

What do we mean?

A wide range of construction activities can have an impact on threatened species. 'Construction' is defined as any activity involving the erection of artificial structures, including roads, fences, dams and sheds, housing, subdivisions, wastewater infrastructure, wind turbines, etc. 

• The most obvious and direct impact of a construction occurs over the 'footprint' or area of land actually covered by the construction.
• Land covered directly by a construction is usually cleared and is therefore lost as threatened species habitat.
• The impacts of a construction may also extend beyond the time of the construction works, and beyond the structure's actual footprint.
• Some structures can be difficult for birds and bats to see, such as wind turbines, netting fences or large windows, resulting in collisions.
• Construction of fences and roads can fragment the home ranges and block dispersal routes of some animals.
• Once a construction is completed, the physical environment and types of activities which occur in the area may permanently alter. These 'knock-on' effects can extend well beyond the footprint of the actual structure.
• If the construction is located in a remote area, the impact of any accompanying infrastructure must also be considered, from road creation to wastewater management.
• Weeds and diseases can be spread during construction works. Always practice good hygiene and washdown procedures during construction work in natural areas. 

Regulators 

• ​​​Environment Protection Authority
  
• NRE's Water Management
• Local Councils

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