IN GOOD news for local koalas, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has confirmed that repairs and maintenance of koala fencing along the freeway near Repton is well underway.
A spokesperson said that TfNSW takes the protection of koalas very seriously and takes every reasonable measure to ensure their wellbeing.
He said that, during the development of the Bonville Bypass, detailed assessment of local fauna species was conducted in collaboration with subject matter experts and an extensive system of exclusion fencing suitable for these species was installed.
The project also included transverse crossing opportunities designed specifically for koalas which included dedicated fauna crossing culverts, dual use drainage/fauna culvert structures, crossing infrastructure at bridge abutments and the multi award winning fauna overpass.
The spokesperson said planned fauna fence maintenance work between Mailmans Track interchange and Archville Station Road Interchange, Bonville, started last month and is expected to take about 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting.
Work includes vegetation clearing along the fauna fence corridor and identified fence repairs.
More generally, TfNSW says it uses several mitigation measures across the state that comply with relevant conservation plans and have been developed in consultation with leading experts in the field.
It not only uses proven techniques, such as fencing and connectivity structures, but is also exploring emerging technologies to help further reduce wildlife vehicle strikes and enhance habitat connectivity.
TfNSW said it is collaborating proactively with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) NSW Koala Strategy to identify and prioritise koala vehicle hotspots on existing roads around the state that require intervention.
By Andrew VIVIAN
