Elements and Performance Criteria
- Carry out preliminary design activities for the biological survey
- Survey scope, objectives and constraints are identified according to client requirements, biological components to be surveyed and enterprise policy.
- All current data relevant to survey requirements is sourced, collated and evaluated according to enterprise policy.
- Processes for data collection are developed, consistent with the survey scope, objectives and constraints.
- Processes for data processing are developed, consistent with the survey scope, objectives and constraints.
- A survey design that reflects client requirements and survey scope, objectives and constraints is developed and presented to the client for discussion and approval.
- Determine requirements of the biological survey
- Survey indicators are identified and constraints and opportunities for data collection identified and evaluated.
- Data collection points are identified that are repeatable and statistically representative for the biological survey.
- OHS hazards associated with conducting a biological survey are identified; risks assessed and controls developed according to enterprise guidelines, costed and documented in the survey design.
- Tools, equipment and machinery required for the biological survey are identified, costed and availability confirmed with suppliers, contractors and appropriate personnel.
- Scheduling of survey activities and surveyor access are determined according to the survey design.
- Survey procedures and schedules are documented according to scientific conventions and the survey scope and objectives, and are presented to appropriate personnel and the client for briefing and acceptance.
- Conduct the biological survey
- Field visits are conducted to verify and consolidate previously collected data and to gather further information on species frequency, distribution, and health and/or habitat values.
- The biological survey is conducted according to the survey design and enterprise policy.
- Survey activities are monitored for accuracy, compliance to the survey design and out-of-specification procedures or events.
- Staged data collection is undertaken according to survey design, survey scheduling and surveyor access requirements.
- All monitoring and survey data is recorded promptly and accurately, according to the specifications of the survey design.
- Compile a biological survey report
- Analysis of collected data is undertaken according to industry policies and guidelines.
- Conclusions about the biological survey are drawn from relevant information and are based on appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments.
- A biological survey report is produced which conforms to industry standards for presentation, structure and content, and is presented to the client for acceptance.
- The report describes biological survey findings according to the survey scope and objectives, identifies areas requiring remedial action for improvement and details recommendations for action.