Australian Government

Departmcnt of fhc Environmcnt and Watcl'Rcsnlll'ces

Supplementary Form A -Whales and Dolphins (cetaceans)

Application ul/d" secllarr 238 of 'II, Efwlronmfn/ Pra/ecllarr ffrrd BladlVllf. 11y Canrerwr/lon AcI1999.

.~\ ••••• • -If the person completing this form is representing a small business (Le. a business having less than 20 !'lmployees), please provide an estimate 01 the time taken to complete this form.

Please include:

- the lime taken spent reading the Instructions, working on the questions and obtaining the information; and

- the time spent by all employees in collecting Bnd providing this information.

Hours EJ Minutes D

Pi This form has two purposes: ~l

':' 1. To apply for a permit to undertake an action which wi!! contribute significantly to the conservation of whales and dolphins such as 1 research on whales and dolphins.

2. To appty for a permit to interfere with whales and dolphins, where that interference is Incidental to and not the purpose 6f the action, for example, building an underwater structure wtlere you may come into contact wlth whales or dolphins.

Please supply the following information If you will Interfere with, Injure, take, keep, move, possess or treat (cut up/divide) a cetacean or part 1 ;, of a cetacean in the Australian Whale Sanctuary or waters beyard the Austrailan Whale Sanctuary (overseas). [f you are proposing to send specimens out of Australia you wlK need an export permit. Import permllswill be necessary for bringing parts or products of cetaceans Into Australia. For more Information on Imports and exports contact International Wildlife Trade Section on 02 6274 1900.

This form should be completed In conjuncllon with The Genera[ Permit Application form.

If you need more space If there is insufficient space on this form to fully address any of the questions please attach additional pages and list these attachments at question 16.

When using additional documentation to answer individual questions in this application, please refer to the document tille, the specific section(s) and the page number(s) on which the information appears.

Application fee There is a $25 fee for permits where the action will contribute significantly to the conservation of cetaceans. There are some fee exemptions in certain circumstances, details of which can be obtained from the Department at the below address.

Where to send the forms and the application fee Please send the completed General Permit Application and this form and any accompanying attachments to:

Director Cetacean Policy and Recovery Section Department of the Environment and Water Resources GPO Box 787 CANBERRA ACT 2601 Fax: 02 62741542

Page 1 of6 26 J1IIIe 2006

1=c- Details of species that will be affected by the action. Use the following codes to enter details n columns 3 and 5.

2

Column 1 Column 2 Common nameo! species. Scientific name of species

Common and scientific names are available at the Departmental

website: hI!Q;!fwww,~o~rS;lOm~OI,9QV,iilU~rlDl

applicaUons/biodjversjtv/spraV

Indian Ocean Bottlenose T ursiops aduncus Dolphin

.

Provide the latitude and longitude of where the action will be conducted. latitude and longitude references should be used Instead of AMG and/or digital coordinates.

Where the project area is less than 1 square km, provide a single pair of latitude and longitude references.

Where the project area is greater than 1 square km or any dimension is greater than 1 km, altach a list of coordinates to enable accurate identification of the location of the project area.

latltude longitude

Degrees Minutes Seconds Degrees Minutes Seconds

35 07 59 150 42 00

35 07 59 150 42 59

35 07 00 150 42 00

35 07 00 150 42 59

locality

Column 3 Column 4 Column 5 Conservation status o! Estimated Type of effect

threatened species number that under EPBC Acl (e.g. the blue will be Codes for Column 5

whale is endangered EN) affected. IC Interfering with a cetacean

Codes tor Column 3 IN Injuring TA Taking EW Extinc! in the wild KE Keeping EX Extinct MO Moving CE Critically endangered TC Treating EN Endangered PO Possessing VU Vulnerable

CD Conservation dependent

3

4

100 Ie

.

.

Jervis Bay

Attach an A4 sized map to show the boundaries of the area in which the action will be conducted.

Provide an attachment describing the action addressing the following points.

A. The equipment and methods used to comply with the EPBC Act Regulations.

B. What steps will be taken to minimise Impacts on cetaceans.

C. The objectives and purposes of the action.

.

S Al!ach a description of any research relevant to the <:# affected species or community that will be carried out in the course of cr in conjunction with the propcsed action, including:

A. A copy of the research proposal. B. The names of the researchers and institutions involved in

cr supporting the research. C. Relationship of the researchers to the permit applicant,

including any funding being provided by, or to, the permit applicant

Page 2 0/6 26 June 2006

~~ Wllilhe ac~on involve invasive techniques?

No IZI=>Go /I) next question

YC5 D=>Attach application aoo approval from an Animal ,EthicS Committee.

7 Are you applying on the basis thntlhe action win contribute significantly to conservation of cetaceans? (Please note, a fee of $25 Is required for this type of permit - see'Question 21)

No IZI=>Go to 9

Yes D=>Go to next quutilln

8 Why do you believe that the action wi. contribute significantly to the conservation of cetaceans?

Nowgo to 13

9 Ale you applying 00 the basis that the effect OIl cetaceans will be incidental to, and nollhe purpose of, the action? Yoti must also answer quesllonSl10, 11 &12 to apply for this type of permit.

No D=>you are nol able to apply for a permit USWl9 this form; please conlact the Cetacean Policy and Recovery Section at epbcwj!d@environment.gov.au,orcail (02) 62741111. .

Yes [8J=>Why do you believe_that the impact of the action wil be i1cidenlaf to and nol the purpose 01 the action?

Dolphins in Jervis Bay will be encountered on an opportunistic basis only. The sampling-procedure employed by this research will involve following . line-transects across Jervis Bay, and when a dolphin group Is encountered they will be approached. Using non~lnvaslve methods, the time and location of dolphin sighting, estimated group size and predominant behaviour of the group will be recorded. Dolphins will then be approached such (hat photo-fdentification pictures can be (aken of their dorsal fins. The boat will then leave the group and continue along the line­transect, and will not use a group-follow method where dolphin groups may be followed for an extended period of time. .

Boat trame has been Identified to Influence the surface behaviour of dolphin groups, Including impacting their direction of travel. This is the only expected interference to the dolphin population caused by the proposed sampling procedure. However, encounter lime will be minimal and therefore there will be little impact .

.

Page j 016 26 Jill/I: 20Q6

10 Why do you believe that the proposed action will not adversely affect the conservation status of a species of cetacean or population of that species?

The interference caused to dolphin groups at time of sampling will be minimal and the proposed actions should in no way adversely affect the conservation'status of Tursiops aduncus.

As these observations will only be made over a short period of time, it is highly unlikely there Is any long-term implictions of these observations .

.

11 Describe how the proposed action will be consistent with any recovery plans or wildlife conservation plans in force for the species of cetaceans that may be affected by the action.

Commonwealth recovery and wildlife conservation plans that are in force Bre available from the Department of the Environment and Water Resources web site: IoVWw.envlronment.aov.auibiodiversitvlfhreatenedirecoverylinde x.hlml

State Bad territory recovery plans will be available from state and territory environmental agencies.

Page 4 of6

N/A

26.llllle2006

12 The applicant is required to take all reasonable steps to minimise interference with cetaceans.

How will this be carried out?

The period of time taken to record the information relevant for this research will be at all times kept as minimum as possible. Dolphin groups will not be followed.

Interference of this species will be due only to disturbance caused by boat traffic, and due to the nature of the Jervis Bay multiple-use marine park, it is likely this spectes Is accustomed to such disturbance.

13 Attach details of any proceedings against the proposed permit holder under a Commonwealth, State or Territory law for the protection of the environment or the conservation and .A sustainable use of natural resources. 6'

14 Fee. The following fees apply:

- If you answered yes at question 7, for an action which will contribute significantly to the conservallon of cetaceans " $25 (there are fee exemptions in some circumstances).

- An incidental action relating to cetaceans - nil

15 Are you paying by credit card?

No D:::::>Atlach a cheque, go to next question

Yes D~Complete the following details

Card: Visa 0 Bankcard 0 MasterCard 0 Card number

CJCJCJCJ Expiry date (monlh/year)

16 Attachmenls

Indicate below which documents are attached.

Attach a map. See question 3 I2J The eqUipment and methods used to comply

I2J with the EPBC Act Regulations. See questfon 4 What steps will be taken to minimise impacts

I2J on cetaceans. See question 4 The objectives and purposes

I2J of the action. See question 4

Copy of research proposal. See question 5 I2J Names of researchers and institutions. See question 5 I2J

Relationship of researcher to permit applicant. I2J See questIon 5

Ethics commlltee approval. See question 6 D Details of any proceedings against the permit holder

D under a Commonwealth, State or Territory law. See question 13

Cheque for payment of fee. See question 14 0 List all addltlonal documents below !2l

Tilles of all attached documents (include the document tille, the specific section(s) and the page number(s) on which the information appears)

Figure 1.1 Map of Jervis Bay with zones used in JBMP surveys' and survey start points. Research LogistiCS (1 page)

- Q. 4A, B, C

Final Research Proposal (11 pages)

- Page 1 Names of researches and institutions

I I 17 Oeclarallon

Card holder's name as shown on card

Amount

Cardholder's signature

Page 5 0/6

I declare that the informaUon contained in this application Is correct to the best of my knowledge.

Signature of applicant

Name of person signing

26 JUJ/e 2006

Date

125/04/2010

Page 60/6 26JIl/le 2006

-:. :-'

.:.

.~ ..

FIGURE 1.1: MAP OF JERVIS BAY WITH ZONES USED IN JBMP

SURVEYS AND SURVEY START POINTS

' .'

. : : .

,_e_

.... . " KEY

•

....... . . . . . . .

1

6

":: "H"" 'S :;;':. ';;~\i~ii'~ -:', IV~ . ;"', • ::::::::; :::::;::';- . : ;.: : : : : : .. ' ,' '.' .. . .. ,:.: .:.:::':' :::' :- :

..... . . . . . . ',' . .. . . ,', . . . .

'.' :

ZONES USEe IN 'JBMP SURVEYS (Wllilams, 109:3)

START POINTS USED IN JBMP SURVEYS

_ Pe~ndicuJar

."

10fJm

/ ,

N

+ ~2~. ;""==;l"f==.",,;2 Kllomutor,

Created by 24 Sept 2002 by Jennifer Spencer, Marine Mammal Research Group, GSE, Macquaria University. Data layers sourced from NPWS, CSIRO. GIS Program ARCvlew 13.2£1 ESRI. App.1.

Research Logistics

A. Equipment and methods used to comply with the EPBC Act Regulations.

The basic premise of the fieldwork method is to undeltake line-transect surveys around the bay and pcrfonn boatibased sampling that follows methods previously employed by Moller et at. (2002). .

1. When a dolphin group is sighted, they are approached to approx 30m and time of sighting, estimated group size, group composition (adults or non-adults), location (using handheld GPS), and predominant behaviouralactivity* will be recorded (following methods by Moller et aI. , 2002). *activity:pattems include travelling, feeding, travel/forage, socialising, and milling

2. Preliminary data will be collected on dolphin aburidance in Jervis Bay to provide data fat the current study and potentially be used in future studies.

A. Aller initial encounter the bJfOUP will be approached to a distance of approximatelyl Om. Photographs of each the dorsal fin of each dolphin within the group will be taken to be used for photo-identification pUl"}Joses. This data can be used through a mark-recapture model to estimate minimum abundance.

B. What steps will be takel'l to minimise impacts on cetaceans.

This research will involve observing and photographing cetaceans only, and there will be no physical interference with, feeding of, or swimming with the cetaceans as described in the EPBC Act 2000. Within the caution zone-ofhoth adult and juvenile cetacemlS the vesselwill be operated at a constant speed ofless than 6 knots and noise minimised. It is proposed that this research would approach within the 50m exclusion 7.one for dolphins as described· by the EPBe regulations to pcrfonn photo-identiiication (to a proposed distance of 10m).

All permit holdcrs commit to immediately.withdrawing the vessel from the caution zone if the cetacean exhibits signs of disturbance. Approach of dolphins by the vessel will attempt to be from the rear at no closcr than 30 degrees of its observed direction of travel, or by positioning the vessel ahead of the dolphins at more than 30 degrees from its observed direction of travel as described in the EPBC Regulations 2000. The vessel will not restrict the path of groups of dolphins, and not pursue any dolphins for extended time periods. The vessel will not attempt to chmlge course or spced suddenly when there are cetaceans in proximity, or enter the caution zone of a dolphin or group of dolphins if there are already 3 vessels in the caution zonc.

C. The objectives and purposes of the action.

111e objectives of this research is as to act as preliminary work for a larger, 10ng-ten11 project that will identify the distribution and abundance oJ this species at Jervis Bay. Specifically this research is first attempting to;

- Dcvclop a predictive spatial distribution model for Tursiops aduncus at Jervis Bay, NSW

-Investigate the representativeness of data collected by the commercial operator 'Dolphin Watch', by comparing statistically the outcomes ofthe two comparable models.

Distribution and habitat preferences of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) at Jervis Bay, NSW

Allison Runck:

Supervisors:

Introduction

The core of predictive geographical modelling in ecology is in quantifying the relationship between a species and its enviromnent, one of the most central issues in ecology (Guisan and ----- ------._----Zirnmennan, 2000). Specifically ecological models explore the ~patial dist.:i~~!i?~~_~ts~~'\ ~ their pre~.~~~~yironment, by statistically analysing the relationships between species

occurrences and sets of environmental predictor variables (Segurado and Araujo, 2004). These relationships are then extrapolated to produce two outputs, the first being estimates of

the probability that a species might occur at g!~n.J.11JIecord_ed19..QatioJ1->.JI.nd ~~~_~~~1Y..

es!i!~~~e.~_2.f.~ ar:~?g> sui~~£~~i~;( fOE_~_~~cl.~s (Seglu·ado alid Araujo, 2004).

The development of predictive habitat distribution models has rapidly increased in ecology in

response to increasingly powerful statistical techniques and GIS tool~ (Guisan and Zimmennan, 2000). They have i111Po;t~rt'~1;pii~'aH011s -in habit~t -I~;nageme~l~and C~~~1i011J}J?~ming. This research proposes to investigate the-use of ecological modelling

for cetacean-habitat relationships through a.£~~~_.~,~4Y.Qf4istrjblltion and habitatuse by the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins at Jervis Bay, NSW . ... -.. -.... --- ._".. "-. "-" ,,- ",-.-

Case-Study Jervis Bay is a relatively enclosed, kidney-shaped embayment located in NSW approximately

200km south of Sydney (Moller et al., 2002). It characteristically has shallow waters

(generally <20m) and a,shelving bottom,reaching a maximum depths, around 40m, in the centre and towards the entrance to thc bay (Cho, 1995),

'-

The waters of Jervis Day are encompass~d by the Jervis Bay Marine Park (JBMP), which in

its entirety covers an area of approximately 22 hectares (including adjacent ocemlic waters of

the hay). This multiple-use Marine Park provides a range of ptotcction levels: Soncturuy

_zones, offering the highest level of protection, account for 20Ule Oft11C park area; Habitat protection zones account for 72% of the total area; General use zones for 8%; as well as a

smallnwnber of special purpose zones.

The southcm peninsula of the bay is managed by the Federal Govcmment, and consists of n

naval basc, HMAS Creswell, and Booderee National Park. A small section afthe wate~ of

the southem region of the bay is encompassed in this Commonwealth Territory.

The Jervis Bay area is both ecologically important and a multiple-use environment. As a

multiple-use environment there are decisions that need to be made on the suitnbj'Hty of

particular areas .for different activities. In this way, ecological modelling of a species-habitat

relationship would provide very useful outcomes in tCImS of habitat management

Dolphins provide for an interesting case :study for a number of reasons, Some reasons are

purely lOgistical - there is Bn existing long tenn (~8ycar) data set that is available, as well as

intere..!it from Marine Parks in evuluating how reliable and representative this data is. In the context of Jervis Bay and management of the marine reserve- the ·dolphin population is of

high priority in conservation due to their inherent popularity to tourism.

Importantly though, dolphins also act,somewhat as an indicator species; they are highly behavioural and highly mobile, and monitoring cbanges in distribution or preferential habitat

use by this species can be valuable in detecting environmental changes. The distrihution of

bottlenose dolphins has also been shown to be clearly related to cnvrro11l~eotal heterogeneity

(Ingram and Rogan, 2002),

Habitat use by.bottlenose dolphinshas been established to differ between locBtions and it is

necessary 10 study the interactions between habitat and distribution of bottlenose dolphins on a site-specific basis to achieve meaningful outcomes in tenns of the future management of

habitat (Ingram and Rogari, 2002). As such, 110 habitat modelling of the Jervis Bay dolphin

population has previously been undertakcn .

. Bottlenose dolphins (gcnus Tl.lrsiops) are found in all temperate and tropical waters, with

currently two recognised species, Tursiops (nmeatus and Turs;ops adUNct,lS (Moller et al., 2002). Genetic research completed in 2001, has idehtified that tile dolphin population in Jervis bay are the species 1'ursiops aduncus, not T. trunca/~' as originally believed (Moller

and Beheregaray, 2001),

·Throughout their global range bottlenose dolphins arc found in shallow, coastal habitats (Ingram and Rogan, 2002). Initial work on the Jervis Bay population in the early 1990's established certain characteristics of the distribution of dolphins that suggests deplh and

.""

distance (0 shoreline are important environmental predictors for this species (M8ndelc and

Fairweather, 1995).

Research trom 1997 to 1999 investigated the abundance, group size and behaviour of the dolphins at Jervis Bay, in comparison to other populations further north ~t Port Stephens '(Moller et 01., 2002). A lotal of 118 individuals were identified, 57 of Ih~se classified as 'residents' of the bay - while the remainder of the individuals were classed as 'occasional visitors' or 'transients' (Moller el al., 2002).

Over the period 2001 to 2006, research investigated the. acoustic behaviour of the dolphins in JelVis Bay (Lemon el al., 2006a). The responses of this species, both in acoustical and surface behaviour, to disturbance by powerboats was also investigated during this period (Lemon et 0/., 200nb).

More recent research on the ,dolphins in Jervis Bay includes tilC Honours thesis of Rafaele (2010, unpublished). This study investigated the spalial disU'ibulion of behaviour, of the

dolphins across the bay, related primarily to habitat type. Results suggest that there is a statistically significant spatial 'distribution pattern of the dolphins, and this will be used as a basic assumption for the current research.

General Dolphin Ecology

The premise used in employing ecological modelling as a way to investigate the spatial distribution and habitat use of bottlenose dolphins is that environmental heterogeneity influences habitat use by mnl'ine mammals, and mAny cetncean species are wide-ranging and respond 10 variabiJity in marine ecosystems lhrough changes'in distribution patterns (Ingram and Rogan, 2002; Redfern et aI., 2006) Spatial modelling has been used in a number of studies 10!lking at habitat use and preference of cetaceans and have been proven to be usc:ful in improving abundance estimates, the development of Marine Protected Areas and

underst~nding cetacean-fisheries interactions (Redfem et aI" 2006)

As there is already data availability and knowledge of the potential habilat variables influencing bottlenose dolphins' distribution patterns, it is appropriate that predictive models can be applied 1n this circumstance: to both develop hypotheses about underlying ecological processes; and minimise the adverse anthropogenic impacts on this population at JelVis Bay (Redfern el aI., 2006).

Meally, cetacean-habitat modelling would be based on accurate measures of population size nnd data charactcrising habitat variability, prey populations nnd predator populations at a range of temporal and spatial scales (Redfem ct nl., 2006).

Depth & Slope

Depth and slope ore two ,enviromnentai 'predictors expected to greatly influence the distribution of the bottlenose dolphin population at Jervis Bay. In other regions of the world,

boUlenose dolphins have been repqrted to favour shallow water of <1 Om depth (Ballance,

1992). However some populations have been reported to have preferential use of areas of

greatest benthic slope and depth within an estuary (Ingram and Rogan, 2002). Generally, \

many significant relationships have been observed for bottlenose dolphin species- between population distributions and bathymetric variables (Redfem et al. 2006).

In Jervis Bay it has been previously reported that the dolphins do not frequent deeper areas in

the middle oflhe hay, hut rather were sighted 88% orthe time around the periphery of the

bay in waters <11.4m depth (Mandelc and Fairweather, 1995).

Distance to shore

Studies have observed si!,,'luficant relationships between bottlenose dolphin populations and

their proximity to the coastline (Ballance, 1992). This is supported by previous research in

Jervis Bay which found dolphins were spotted more often in areas on the periphery ofthe bay

(Mandelc and Fairweather, 1995).

Habitat subst.rate type It is expected Tursiops adu1icus will frequent areas close to estuary mouths and scagrass beds

as areas for feeding, as estuarine areas have repeatedly been found to be areas of high dolphin

occurrence (Ballance, 1992). It is also expected the,population could be influenced by

substrate sediment type as elsewhere bottlenose dolphins reportedly favour sandy bottoms

(Ingram and Rogan, 2002).

Sea Surface Temperature The study site is 3. relatively small area with a potentially expected uniform spatinl

distribution of sea sW'face temperatures - therefore having minimal effect on T. adul1cus distributions. However there arc seasonal differences; in the wanner summer months (Nov­

April) the average SST is reportedly 23°C, while in the cooler winter months (May to

October) the average SST is 17°C (Moller et a1. , 2002). TIlis will therefore have to be taken

into account as an environmental variable.

Research Questions 1) What is the relationship between the Indo~Paeific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops

aduncus) and their environment; specifically habitat substrate typc, sea surface

temperature, depth, slope and distance to shore?

2) What is a suitable modelling approacll for conhibuting to tile understanding ofthe.~e

relationships, based on species response and the nahlre of data available?

3) Is the data cOllected by the commercial operator 'Dolphin Watch Cl1lises'

representative of the dislribution of T. aduncus at Jervis Bay?

Aims:

-To develop a predictive spatial distribution model for TII1'siops adulIcus·in Jervis Bay, NSW

- using non-scientifically sampled data

, .

• To develop a predictive spatial distribution model for Tursiops aduncus in Jervis Bay, NSW - using scientifically sampled data

-To invesligate the representativeness of data collected by the commercial operator 'Dolphin Watch'. by comparing statistically the outcomes of the two comparable models.

Methodology I This research intends to pClionn field survey to obtain scientifically-sampled infonllation 011

the spatial distribution of T aduncus at Jervis Bay and to provide familiarisation with the field and, cetacean sampling methods. The second primary component of my methodology will be the development of an ecological model of the species using statistics and GIS software. 111C appropriate model approach to employ will be investigated through an extensive literature review. The appropriate model will then be developed and evaluated

through the use of both field-surveyed data and archived data obtained from Dolphin Watch.

Field Surveys The basic premise of the fieldwork method is to undertake line-transect surveys around the bay and perf 01111 boat-based sampling that follows methods previously employed by Moller et

al. (2002). The reasons for this are twofold, first, it has shown to be an effective sampling procedure at this site, and second, it will valuc,;,add to-the potential future use ofthedata set in comparison studies.

I. When a dolphin group is sighted, they arc approached to approx 3'Om and time of sighting, estimated group size, group composition (adults or non-adults), location (using handheld GPS), and predominant behavioural activity* will be recorded (following methods by Moller et a1., 2002). "'activity patte111s include travelling, feeding, travel/forage, socialising, and milling

2. Preliminary data will be collected on dolphin l;1bundance in Jervis Bay to provide data for the current study and potentially be uscd in future studies.

A. After initial encounter the group will be approached to a distance of approximately 1 Om. Photographs of each the dorsal fin of each dolphin within the group will be, taken to be used for photo-identification purposes. This data can bc used through a mark­recapture model to estimate minimum abundance.

There are a number of logistical fieldwork issues that need to be ~onsidered when developing thc sampling design, as research will be carried out onboard a maIine parks vessel, who will also have to attend to policing fishing regulations during the survey. Although it will be a scientifically designed sampling method, it is recognised that the sampling design may not meet the rigorous standards offieldwork dedicated to scientific sampling. On board the vessel will be Jervis Bay Marine Park staff, co-supervisor and marine mammal researcher Michelle

Blewitt and potentially advanced Marine Biology students to help collect abundaIlee data and perfonn photo ID tagging.

111e time I spend in the field will also be valuable in providing familiarisation with cetacean sampling techniques, their behaviours and general ecology.

• Model Predictions - once the ecologica1 profi1e of a species is derived, its potential distribution within the mode11ed area can be predicted (Guisan and Zimmerman, 2000).

-Model Validation/Evaluation - Measuring the adequacy between model predictions and field observations, through various techniques.

Using two independent data sels: one to compute the model (calibration data), one to evaluate the quality of the model predictions.

Materials and Support

Fieldwork

Boat to be provided by Marine-Parks at Jcrvis Bay

Expe11ise in cetacean field research provided by co-supervisor Michelle Blewitt Equipment; GPS and camera used for photo-identification.

Ecological Model Software: Access to ArcGIS and IDRISI Nced to confinn modelling method and access to appropriate statistical tools.

Ttems to be acquired for fieldwork and data analysis.

Item Source Process Cost University Ethics N/A Submitted nil Application

NSW Marine Parks N/A applied nil Pennit Booderee National N/A applied nil Park Pennit

Australian N/A applied nil Government General Permit

"-----Australian N/A applied nil Govenunent General Penni! (Supplementary Form A)

Habitat substrate Marine Parks Acquired nil map Depth Profile Marine Parks Still to be

completed

Sea Surface Online Database Still to be nil Temperatures completed Distance to shore Calculated in GIS Still to be nil

completed

'Dolphin Watch' 'Dolphin Watch' Acquired, Nced to njl

data Cruises confirm pcnnission for use

Field data Field-work survey Planning ... Dependent on number of trips to Jervis Bay - still to be confinned

.$

Implications of Research

As mentioned at: the beginning, predictive ecological models produce two outputs;

predictions of habitat suitability, and predictions of habitat preference. Both of these will be

inherently useful for the future management of the Jervis Bay multiple~use Marine Park,

especially in the conservation and protection of the resident dolphin population,

The project wi11 also contribute to the future use of a potentially very valuable data set:

collected almost every day, ycar round - at no cost to Marine Parks, It is expected

recommendations from this research might advise on whether this data set is representative

cnough to be suitable: for use 111 its cun-ent state; for use with minor changes in sampling and

recording procedures; or whether it is completely unrepresentative and unsuitable,

Generally, the research will add to the literature on the appropriateness of ecological

modelling for understanding cetacean-habitat relationships,

Ecological Model

A review of spatial ecological models used in examining cetacean habitat preferences will be conducted to choosc an appropriate modelling technique for examining distribution of the Jervis Bay dolphin population. Stati'stical1y the choice of model is detem1ined by both the suited algorithm needed for predicting a particular type of response variable and estimating the model coefficients, Dnd secondly the need for all optimal statistical approach with regard to the modelling context (Guisnll and Zimmennan 2000). Tn general terms, this refers to the underlying ecological processes, the nature of the data used in analysis, and the goals to be achieved by thc study.

In the Case Study to he used, data has been collected from 2002 to 2009 by the commercial 'Dolphin Watch' operation. Infonnation recorded over this period includes the location, time and datc of dolphin sightings, estimated group size, and predominant behaviollr. This has created a potentially very useful data-set; however there are a number of notable limitations. The data is strictl y presence-onl y; with high confidence in the reliabili ty of the presences recorded, but not in assuming all other regions should be_considered as absence. Use of a non-scientifically designed sampling method suggests it is likely that there will be areas more commonly visited by the commercial vessel that will be oversampled, while less frequented areas will be under-sampled- raising issues of representativeness.

Another important consideration when choosing a model is the nature of cetacean-habitat relationships. Many models have been developed for terrestrial environments and it is important to recognise that cetaceans are n highly mobile species. in a fluid and highly variable marine environment. The dynamic nature ofrnarine physical processes requires

careful selection of habitat variables and recognition there may be temporal or spatial lags between physical processes and biological responses (Redfem et al. , 2006).

Redfem et at has reviewed the use of various techniqueS for modelling cetacean-habitat relationships (2006). They suggest that environmental envelope modelling is the simplest technique available ~or quantifying large-scale relationships between cetacean distributions and habitat variable$! (Redfern et aJ., 2006). TIley also outline how various regression models arc the most commonly used tools. in this area of research. and that tree-based models -provide a complctely non-parametric alternative to such regression techniques (Redfern et a1., 2006). It is proposed these three modelling approaches, as well as a Bayesian probability approach are investigated further to assess their suitability for use in this case-study,

After an appropriate modelling technique is selected all relevant data sets required willnccd to be prepared for analysis. This slide outlines the li st of data sets I have identified as necessary, and where 1 will obtain them frOIll .

• Model Calibration - results in the adjustment of the mathematical model that was selected for the specific data set at hand (Guisan and Zimmerman, 2000).

Booderee National Park Phone: 02 4442 1006

Pennit application fonn for research

Please contact the park office at the _phone number shown -above to obtain further details about pennits for this activity.

Please supply the following infolmation if you are applying for a pennit to conduct research in n Commonwealth park or reserve, under Regulation 12.06(2) or 12.09(1) of U1C EPBC Regulations, and in accordance wilh subsection 354(1) of the EPDC Act.

,If you whlh to carry out research on cetaceans (whales, dolphins or porpoises), please usc the Cetacean permit application fonn.

PART A, - Details of applicant and proposed pCl'mit holdcl'(s)

A 1. Proposed permit holdcr(s)

Include (he Ilame of each individual or group (company. partnership or association) to whom the pennit would be issued. In the ease of a company, partnertihip or association, include:

• filII names of all directors, partners-or committee members;

• Australian Business Number;

• any business or trading name used in tile conduct ofthe activity for which a pennit is sought;

• whether any such busim;ss or trading name is registered;

• jf so, the-Stale!fcrritory of registration and registration numbers.

In the case of an individual(s), include the full name of each person to whom the permit is to be issued.

A2. Contact details

Include business address, postal address, telephone, fax and cmail of each proposed pennit holder.

-

A3. Applicnnl (if dIfferent from proposed permit holder(,))

Include fun name, address, postal address, telephone, fax and email.

A4. Relevant qualifications and experience of proposed permit holder(1J)

If a proposed permit holder is-an individual state their relevant qualifications and experience to­carry out the activities.

If a proposed pennit holder ,is a group (C01n)'ISI1Y, pattncrship or association), ~tnte the name and relevant qualifications and experience of all officers or employees ofthe group who will cany out the activities.

AS. Declaration regarding offelJ.ces

The applicant declares that I

- have not been convicle<fof

- am not subject to proceedings for

8n offence under:

a, a law of the Commonwealth or a State or Tenitory about the protection, conservation or management of native species or ecological commm1ities;

b. section 6, 7 or 7A, or :;ub:;ection 86(1), of the Crimes Acl1914 (Commollwealt11) I or :sections 11 .1. 11.4 or 11.5 of the Criminal Code (Commonwealth) 2, ) in relation to on offence under a law mentioned in (a) above; or

c. a provision of a law of a State or Ten'itary that is equivalent to a provision mentioncd in (b) above.

Delete the parts o/the declaration that do not apply to you, and refer to the Hotes be/ow.

I The applicant is taken to have been "convicted of an offence if, within 5 years before the application is made, the applicant:"

• has been charged With, and found guilty of, the offence but discharged without conviction; or

• has not been found guilty of the offence, but a cowt has taken the otlcl1ce into account in passing sentence 011 the applicant for another offence.

2 Section 6 ofthe Crimes Aet 1914 deals with being all accessory after the fact. Sections 7 and 7 A and subsection 86(1) of the Crinle..~ Act 19 14 and sections ILl, 11.4 and 11.5 ofthc Criminal Code denl with attempts to commit offences." inciting to or urging the commission of offences by other people and, conspiracy to commit offences.

3 PlUt VIIe of the Crimes Act 1914 includes provisions that, in certain circumstances, relieve persons from the requirement to disclose spent convictions lUld require persons aware of such convictions to disregard them.

PART B - Description of the activity

BI. Briefly describe the activity and its objective(s) or pnrpose(s)

The proposed research investigate the distribution and habitat preference of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tu/'siops adul1cus) at Jervis Bay, NSW and obtain preliminary data on the abundance of the dolphins.

Field investigations will involve boat-based sampling ftlong line·Jransects constructed across the bay. Characteristics of dolphin groups encountered along the transect surveys will be reuJrded. including theJocation and time of sighting, group size, group composition "and predominant group behaviour. Ideally dolphins encountered win also be photographed to bc use in photo~id work ondetem1ining the abundance of T. aduncus at Jervis Bay.

To have a representative sample ofthe distribution of this species at Jetvis Bay, it is necessary to sample both in the NSW state marine park, and the waters ofBooderee National Park.

, -•

The objectives of this research is to gather data that could be used to build a predictive ecolo,gicai model that would identifY the areas of preferential use by Tursiops aduncus - and thus infonn on the most important areas to minimise anthropogenic influences.

The research will follow similar methods as undertaken by previous researchers that have runductcd research 011 the dolphins in Jervis Bay since the early 1990's (see relevant references be/ow)

Lemon, M. (2006). The acoustic behaviour of bottlenose dolphins in southeastern Australia and the effects' of anthropogenic disturbance. PhD Thesis, Gradllate School of the Environment. Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.

[emort, M., Spellcer, J. A. & Lynch, T. P. (2002). Distribution of Bottlennse Dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in Jervis Bay, New South Wales, Australia. Unpublished report to the ShQalhaven Defence Estate Organisation, New South Wales, Australia.

Lemon, M., Lynch, T.P., Calo, D.H. & Hnrcourt, R. (2006). R""'Ponse of boUle nose dolphins (fursiops adtmclls) to powerboat approaches in Jervis Bay, New South Wales, Australia. Biologic'a! Conservation 127: 363-372.

Mandelc, F. (1997). Ecology and Conservation of Ule Bottlenose Dolphin (Tul'siops trzmcatlls) in Jervis Bay. NSW. Graduate School ,of lhe Environment. PhD Thesis, Macqllarie University" Sydiley.

Mol1el', L.M. (2001). Social Organisation and Genetic Relationships of Coastal Bottlenose Dolphins in Southeastern Australia. PhD Thesis, Graduate School ofthe Environment. Macquaric University, Sydney, Australia.

Moller, L.M., Allen, S.J. & Harcourt, R.O. (2002). Group characteristics, site fidelity and seasonal abundance ofboUlertosc dolphins Tursiops aduncus in Jervis Bay Ilnd POit Stephens, southeastern Australia. Australian Mammalogy 24: 11-21.

Moller, L.M. & Behercgaray, L.B. (200 1). Coastal OOlllellosc dolphins from southeaslern Australia ,are Tursiops aduncus accordingto sequences of the mitochondrial DNA control region. Marine Mammal Science 17: 249-263.

Moller, L.M. & Harcourt, R.o. ( 1998). Social dynamics and activity patlerns ofbotilenose dolphins, Tursiop.'{tnl1!catus, in Jervis Bayj Southeastern Australia. Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales 120: 181 -189.

B2. Permit reference number

Have you previously held a permit to conduct this activity in Ulis park oneserve? If so, please write the reference number from that pennit and the date of expiry.

N/A

B3. When, bow often and for how long is the activity (rroposed to he taken?

Include number of visits to this park or reserve anticipated during the pennit period j and usual length of stay in the park or rcselve.

It is proposed thAt the penni t will cover a five year period to allow continuation of data collection for rcseru:ch on the abundance of the dolphins in Jervis Bay.

The number ofvlsits anticipated in 20] 0 includes four surveys in each month of May, June, and July and may continue later in the year depending on boat availability and researchers effort. The waters of Booderee National Park would be surveyed as part of larger transects across the whole bay, the length of stay in the reserve only for short time periods within each survey day.

84. VehicJes and/or vessels to be used

Include registration number, type, size and carrying capacity; please indicate whether· vessds havc sewage holdi11g tailks.

The research to be undertaken from on board the Marine Parks vessel which is based in JeLVis Bay.

85. M_inirna l impact

Desclibe what steps will be taken to ensure that all pennit holders and other people authori sed under this pennit will comply with the EPBe Regulations, and what steps will he; taken to minimise adverse impact<; on any native speci.es or ecological community.

nlis research will only involve observing and photographing cetaceans, and there will be no

physical interference with, feeding of, or swimming with the cetaceans as desClibed in the EPBC

Act 2000. Within the caution zone of both adult and juvenile cetaceans the vessel will be

operated at a constant speed oflcss than 6 knots and noise minimised. It is proposed that this

reRcarch would approach within the 50m exclusion zone for dolphins as described by the EPBe regulations to petfonn photo~identification (to a proppsed distance of approximatelylOm).

-All pennit holders commit to immediately wit1xirnwing the vessel from the caution zone jfthe \ \

d~~phiQ~e:~11_~.~!!_~$!l:s of disturbance. Approach of dolphins by the vessel will attempt to be from the rear at no closer than 30 degrees of its observed direction of travel, or by positioning the

vessel ahead of the dolphins at more than 30 degrees from its observed direction of travel as

de;:scribcd in the EPBe Regulations 2000. The vessel will not restrict the travelling path of groups

of dolphins, and not pursue any dolphins for extended time periods. The vessel will not attempt

to change course or speed suddenly when there afe cetaceans in proximity, or enter lhe caution

ZOllC of a dolphin or b'fOUP of dolphins ifthere are already 3 vessels in the caution zone.

B6. Other approvals or pcrmib

Provide details of any othcr approvals, pennits or li cences relating to ·this activity that you are applying for or have ohtained, WIder Commonwealth, State or Territory legislation.

Applying for:

Australian Government, Department of Enviromuent and Water Resources

General Pennit Application

Supplementary Fonn A - Whales and Dolphins (cetaceans)

NSW DECCW, National Parks and Wildlife Service

Application for a scientific licence for the purpose of science, education or conservation,

PART C - Details specific to research in Commonwcalth rcscl"Vcs

C]. Rcscarch description

Provide a dcscription of the refiearch, including:

A, objectives of the research;

Provi4e a description of the research, including;

a. objectives ofthe research;

The objectives of this research is as to act as preliminary work for a larger, long-tel111 project that

will identify the distribulion tmd abundance of this species at Jervis Bay. Specifically this

research is first attempting to;

I. Develop a predictive spatia! distribution model for Tursiops aduncus at Jervis Bay, NSW

2. Investigate the representativeness of data collected by the commercial operator 'Dolphin

Watch', by statistically comparing the outcomes oflhe two comparable models.

b. equipment and methods to be used, including number & locations of transects, quadrats etc (show locations on a map);

The basic premise of the fieldwork method is \0 undettake line-transect surveys arowld the bay

and p~tfonn boat-based sampling that follows similar methods previously employed by Moller el

a/. (2002).

1. When a dolphin group is sighted, they will be approached to approximately 30 mctres and time

of sighting, estimated group size, group composition (adults or non-adults), location (using

handheld GPS), and predominant behavioural activity* will be recorded (following methods by

Moller et al., 2002), *activity patterns include travelling, fceding, travel/forage, socialising and

milling (following -categories developed by Lemon, 2006).

2. Prelimimuy data will be collected on dolphin abundance in Jervis Bay to provide data for the

cmwnt study and potentially be used in futurc studies.

After the initial encounter to the: dolphins to collect iofonn8tion regarding their group

composition and estimate group size, the group will be approached to a closer distance of

approXimately 10 metres. Photographs of cach the dorsal fin of each dolphin within the group

will be attempted to be used fwther for photo-idcntification purposes. This data will be used

duough a mark-recapture model to estimate minimum abundance.

c. the names of the researchers and institutions involved in or supporting the research; and

d. a copy of the research proposal.

C2. If the re!lenrch involves observation of or· any impact on It native species or its nest or dwelling place, you inust complel-e ~able 1.

Table L Details of species or ecological communities that will bc affected by the activity

Common name of species or name of ecological comin~n'ty

lndo~Pacific

bottl enose dolphin

Scientific name of species

Tursiops adunclis

Categorylles under EPBC Act

1. Listed Threatened Species;

2. Listed Threatened Ecological Community;

3. Listed Migratory;

4. Listed Marint:;

5~ Native speCies in a Cmwlthpark or roserve;

6. Protected species in Christmas, Cocos or Coral Sea Islands Territory

Conservation status of threatened species or ecological communities under EPBC Act

EW. Extinct in the wild;

CEo Critically endangered;

EN. Endangered;

VU. Vulnerable

C\).

Conservation depcndent

Estimated number that will b~ affected

For ecological communities, provide an estimate of the affected area.

< 100

Type of effect

DE. De.th

IN. Injury

'I'll. Trading

TA. Takil1g

KE. Keeping

MO. Moving

DN. Damage to nest or dwelling place

on. Observation

C3. If lhe reseSl'ch wtll affect listed species or ecological communities, or cetaceans, a permit can only be issued if the activity will contribute significantly to the conservation of the "pedes or community.

DCS4..Tibe how the activity will contribute significantly to the conservation of the relevant species or ecologicol community.

In doing so, ple~se indicate whet.her and how tile proposed activity will itnplemenllhe recommendations of any recovery.plan or wildlife conservation plan in force for the species or

ecological community. Also indicate whether and how the proposed action responds directly or indirectly to recommendations of any nntional or international organisation responsible for managemt:nl ofthc affected species.

Please note: Before a pennit can be issued for activities affecting listed species 01" ecological comlnwlities, Environment Australia must seck comments from people who have registered their interest in commenting on pennils (see Section 266A of the EPBe Act). For further details please contact Enviromnent Australia -at the nddres~ provided at the end of this application form.

This research aims to create a predictive ecological model for Tursiops adullcus in Jervis nay. Predictive ecological models produCt: estimates of areas habitat suitability for a species, and estimates of the probability of presence of the species in any given 'area. These are inherently useful for the future management of the Jelvis Bay multiple-use Marine Park, especially in the conservation and protection of the resident dolphin population.

The project wilt also provide recommendations for ensuring the collection of dolphin data by the commercial operators meets scientific requirements for estimating species disuibution and nhundBnce. These boat trips provide a va1uable-data set representing a continuous record of dolphin sighlings observed daily through the year without requiTing additional resources from Marine Parks. It is expected recommendations from this research will advise on whether this data set is representative enough to be suitable: n) for use ill its current state; b) for usc with minor changes in sampling and recording procedures; or c) whether it is completely unrepresentative and· unsuitable for this purpose.

C4. II" the l"cscnrch involves collecting specimens, specify the types and numbcrs of specimens sought, and where they are to be housed.

(Note: Parks Australia requires that holotypes of undescribed taxa be lodged with a national, State or Territory museum, the Australian National Herharium, or the Australian National Insect Collection.)

N/A

CS. What are the likely short Dnd long term impacts of the proposed activity on:

a. individual inembets oflh;(ed species;

b. the population of which they form a part;

c. the species as a whole;

d. the ecological community?

As ,this investigation involves observations only, and no physical interference, handling or hara~~ment, individual and population-level impacts firc .Iikely to be minimal.

Ohservations will be undertaken from on board a Marine Parks vessel; the re..o:;ident dolphins under observations will li kely be habituated to these vessels and as such, the impact of their use will be minimal The vessels will always Abide by current legislation (NPW A Regulation 2006 and EPBC Act 2000). The research will involve observing and photographing dolphins only,

although this ideally would involve approaching within the 50m exclusion-zone of dolphins, to around 10m for photo-identification purposes.

As these observations will only be made over a short period of time, there will be minimal, if any, 10ng-tenn implications of these observations on the population or the species as a whole.

There are no foreseen impacts to the ecological community.

C6. Detail any assistance or involvement expected from Park staff

Assistance will be provided from Jervis Bay Marine Parks staff. Matt Hudson from Booderee National Park as also offered us in kind supporthyusing the research house at Jervis Bay Village.

C7. Outline why is it proposed to conduct this research within this pa"'{ or reserve rather than at other locations.

The habitat use by bottlenose dolpllins has been shown to be site-specific, and this research is interested in developing a spatially predictive model for their distribution and habitat use at Jervis Bay. It is therefore necessary to collect data on the location and nature of their distribution throughout the entire Jervis Bay area. Surveying infonnation will also potentially be used to estimate the abundance of the dolphins at Jervis and as such requires all areas of the bay to be adequately sampled.

CS. List the reports andlor publications that arc expectcd to follow from this research.

1. Honours Thesis, School of Geosciences, University of Sydney

2. Peer Reviewed scientific paper, to be published in an Australian or InternationaUoumaL

3. RepOlt for Marine Parks Authority.

C9. Provide details if any of the following activities are intended: camping; off-road driving; use or aircraft or boats; possession of firearms, traps, nets, etc; bringing plants or animals into the Park; access to archaeological sites.

Sampling through the baywill be boat-based. Research will be perfonned aboard a NSW Marine Parks vessel with Marine Park staff on-board.

CIO. Ethics approval

In cases where the activity involves invasive techniques,provide evidence that the proposed methods have been approved by anindcpcndent Animal Ethics Committee (this niay include a State or Territory ethies committee, even if the activity is conducted in a Commonwealth area).

N/A

Cll. Describe tile pl'oposed arrangements for disposition of biological material, if applicable.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that they meet any State, TelTitory or Commonwealth requirements for trans-shipment, import or export of biological material.

NlA

Dcclal'atlon

Please complete the application fon11, then read carefully and si.gn the following declaration.

I, _ (full name), declare lhat the infonnation contained in this application is COITect to the be~t afmy knowledge.

Date .2. '5'14=/ Z (j' 0 ,

Attachments

Please Hd( to indicate that you have included the following material with your application

_ __ Copy o~the Pennit Conditions and Indemnity signed, witnessed Wld dat~.

Send this application and fcc to

Resources Section Booderee National Park Village Road Jervis Bay Territory ACT 2540

Ifthe persoll completing this form is or is representing, a small business (ie . . a business having less than 20 tmlployccs), 'please provide an estimate of the time taken to complete this fom1 .

. Please include:

• the time actually spent reading the instructions, working on the questions and obtaining the infonllation; and

• the time spent by nil employees in collecting and providing this infoJ1l1Btial1.

JHOUfS ____ Minutes