RANGITAIKI FOREST - .NET Framework

RANGITAIKI FOREST

For the period 2010 / 2015

Owned by LANDCORP FARMING LTD

Forest Management Plan

Prepared by Hamish McGregor PO Box 1127 | ROTORUA | New Zealand

T: 07 921 1010 | F: 07 921 1020 [email protected] | www.pfolsen.com

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.pfolsen.cmo

SEPTEMBER 2010 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1

FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN RANGITAIKI FOREST

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................4

Growing wood.............................................................................................................................4 Principles and Criteria.................................................................................................................4 About this Plan ............................................................................................................................4

2. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES................................................................................................5

Environmental and economic services ........................................................................................5 Management objectives...............................................................................................................5 Implementation............................................................................................................................6

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT.............................................................................................................7

3. FOREST LANDSCAPE DESCRIPTION...................................................................................7

Overview .....................................................................................................................................7 Location and access.....................................................................................................................7 Topography .................................................................................................................................8 Soils.............................................................................................................................................8 Climate ........................................................................................................................................8 Legal ownership ..........................................................................................................................9 The ecological landscape.............................................................................................................9

4. MAP 1 - FOREST LOCATION MAP......................................................................................10

5. SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE AND ADJACENT LAND....................................................11

Forest history.............................................................................................................................11 Current social profile.................................................................................................................11 Associations with Tangata Whenua ..........................................................................................11 Neighbours ................................................................................................................................11

6. THE REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT.................................................................................13

Regulatory considerations .........................................................................................................13 Resource Management Act 1991 ..............................................................................................13 District.......................................................................................................................................13 Regional Plan ............................................................................................................................15 ...continued ................................................................................................................................16 Historic Places Trust Act 1993..................................................................................................17 Consents & authorities held ......................................................................................................17 Climate Change Response Act 2002 � The Emissions Trading Scheme ..................................18 Other relevant legislation ..........................................................................................................18 NZ Environmental Code of Practice for Plantation Forestry ....................................................19

7. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND PRACTICES.................................................................20

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................20 Policy.........................................................................................................................................20 Environmental management goals ............................................................................................20 The EMS framework.................................................................................................................21 Hazardous substances management ..........................................................................................22 Assessment of environmental risks ...........................................................................................23



FOREST MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................................................24

8. FOREST ESTATE DESCRIPTION .........................................................................................24

Forest area .................................................................................................................................24 Current species ..........................................................................................................................24 Soil conservation compartments ...............................................................................................24 Site index...................................................................................................................................25 Current crop status ....................................................................................................................25 Age class distribution ................................................................................................................26 Species mix ...............................................................................................................................26

9. RESERVE AREAS AND SIGNIFICANT SPECIES...............................................................27

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................27 Covenants and Significant Natural Areas .................................................................................27 Rare and threatened species ......................................................................................................28

10. NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS AND OTHER SPECIAL VALUES ..........................29

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................29 Non-timber forest products .......................................................................................................29 Recreational usage.....................................................................................................................29

11. MAP 2 - FOREST STANDS MAP...........................................................................................30

12. COMMERCIAL CROP ESTABLISHMENT AND SILVICULTURAL OPERATIONS.......31

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................31 Crop species ..............................................................................................................................31 Other species .............................................................................................................................31 Establishment ............................................................................................................................32 Pre-establishment forest flora and fauna ..................................................................................32 Tending .....................................................................................................................................32 Tree nutrition.............................................................................................................................32

13. FOREST INVENTORY, MAPPING AND FOREST RECORDS...........................................33

Pre-assessment ..........................................................................................................................33 Quality control...........................................................................................................................34 Mid-crop inventory ...................................................................................................................34 MARVL inventory ....................................................................................................................35 Mapping ....................................................................................................................................35 Mapping updates .......................................................................................................................35 Forest records ............................................................................................................................36

14. HARVESTING STRATEGY AND OPERATIONS ................................................................37

Harvesting strategy....................................................................................................................37 Getting harvest ready ................................................................................................................37 Current harvesting programme..................................................................................................39

15. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION .............................................................40

Statutory pest obligations ..........................................................................................................40 Pest control................................................................................................................................41 Disease control ..........................................................................................................................42 Protected ecosystems, reserves and species ..............................................................................42 Fire prevention and control .......................................................................................................43 Forest management requirements..............................................................................................43 Fire authority responsibilities....................................................................................................44



Fire insurance ............................................................................................................................44 Public liability insurance...........................................................................................................44

16. MONITORING .........................................................................................................................45

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................45 Values monitored ......................................................................................................................45 Financial ....................................................................................................................................46 Social.........................................................................................................................................46

17. FUTURE PLANNING..............................................................................................................47

Introduction ...............................................................................................................................47 Operation plans .........................................................................................................................47

APPENDIX 1: NEIGHBOUR LOCATIONS.......................................................................................48

APPENDIX 2: SIGNIFICANT NATURAL AREAS, TAUPO DISTRICT COUNCIL......................49

APPENDIX 3: COVENANTS AND SOIL CONSERVATION AREAS ............................................50

APPENDIX 4: PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS................................................................................51

© PF OLSEN LTD

All rights reserved.

All rights of copying, publication, storage, transmission and retrieval in whole or part by any means and for all purposes except for bona fide copying by the entity that commissioned this report, as set out on the title page, are reserved.

SEPTEMBER 2010 INTRODUCTION Page 4

1. INTRODUCTION

Growing wood Wood has many different uses, from firewood to construction timber, to

newspapers and tissue paper, from furniture to clothing. Wood fibre is extremely versatile and is produced using carbon dioxide and the energy of the sun. Wood from well managed forests is a renewable resource that can meet the economic, social and cultural needs of our society without compromising the environment. Landcorp Farming Ltd�s objective is to grow wood for further processing in New Zealand or overseas and obtain an economic return on investment. Landcorp Farming Ltd seeks to achieve this through the growing of suitable species with wood characteristics that meet the demand of the market. The trees are established, protected and tended as required to meet those demands.

Principles and Criteria

Landcorp Farming Ltd is committed to adopt the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Principles and to meet their Criteria and the FSC standards of good forest management. These standards include ecological, social and economic parameters. Landcorp Farming Ltd is committed to the PF Olsen FSC Group Scheme that is implemented through the Group Scheme Member Manual and associated documents.

About this Plan This document provides a summary of the forest management plan and

contains:

Management objectives;

A description of the land and forest resources;

Environmental safeguards;

Identification and protection of rare, threatened and endangered species;

Rationale for species selection, management regime and harvest plan and techniques to be used;

Appropriate management of unstocked reserve areas;

Maps showing plantation area, legal boundaries and protected areas;

Provisions for monitoring and protection.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Management Objectives Page 5

2. Management Objectives

Environmental and economic services

Forests on Rangitaiki Station can provide environmental benefits, including:

Enhanced water quality;

Soil, stabilisation and conservation;

Providing a buffer against flooding during storms;

Shading waterways for aquatic life;

Enhance wildlife and plant habitat leading to increased biodiversity;

A reduction in greenhouse gases;

Stock shelter;

Providing economic and social benefits to the community and Landcorp Farming Ltd.

However, some forest operations and events such as wind storms, flooding and fire, and agents such as pests and diseases, and weeds can cause adverse effects on both the forest and the environmental, economic and social services it provides.

Management objectives

The forest is managed to:

Grow trees and produce logs for the manufacturing of different wood products in New Zealand and overseas with a focus on high quality pruned and structural logs depending on the growth capability and environmental factors of the site.

Provide quality pruned or structural shelterbelts for the primary purpose of stock welfare, but managed to maximise forestry return.

Protect significant areas of soil conservation concern.

Ensure that the productivity of the land does not decline.

Ensure that environmental values are identified and maintained.

Harvest the trees as close as possible to their economic optimum age.

Replant following harvesting, and

Help to offset the Landcorp Farming Ltd carbon liability under the New Zealand ETS.

Landcorp Farming Ltd is committed to ensure that the management of the forest is sustainable, from an environmental, social, cultural and economic perspective. These perspectives underpin the FSC management culture.

Continued on next page...

SEPTEMBER 2010 Management Objectives Page 6

...continued Environmental management includes steps to identify rare, threatened

and endangered species where such presence is a possibility, protection of reserve areas, waterways and the control of pests and weeds. The social perspective includes ensuring that contractors and their workers adhere to health and safety standards and consultation with neighbours and stakeholders in respect of operations on the forest. The cultural perspective includes consultation with the appropriate iwi to ensure that culturally significant resources, lands, historic and archaeological sites are identified and appropriately managed. The economic perspective refers to the selection of a species, management and harvesting regime, which provides a reasonable return on investment while minimising the risks of this investment.

Implementation The forest management objectives described above are implemented by

PF Olsen Ltd (PF Olsen), the forest manager for Landcorp Farming Ltd and Rangitaiki forest. The manager applies recognised best forestry management practice within a quality management framework to plan for and deliver the required forest management objectives. The Quality management framework includes:

The PF Olsen ISO 9002 certified forest management system, ensuring that the forest management planning is up to date and that operations are scheduled and undertaken according to the plan.

The PF Olsen ISO 14001 certified environmental management system, ensuring that high standards of environmental management are recognised and integrated into every facet of the forest planning and management.

The FSC Environmental certification (when requested by the customer) to ensure management principles and practice adhere to internationally recognised and adopted standards for environmental management.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Forest Landscape Description Page 7

Operating Environment

3. Forest Landscape Description

Overview This section describes the physical and legal attributes of the land on

which the forest is located. Included in this section are discussions of:

Location and access Topography Soils Climate Legal ownership and tenure

Location and access

Rangitaiki forest is located off Matea Road, which in turn is located off SH 5 between Taupo and Napier about 52 kilometres east of Taupo. Internal farm tracks provide access to all stands of forest. The location of the forest in relation to potential markets is listed in the table below and in the location map.

Distances from Forest to Log Markets

Potential Market Distance from Forest (km) Log market or Export Port

Napier 103 Export

Mount Maunganui 209 Export

Taupo 52 Domestic

Rotorua 133 Domestic

Kinleith 112 Pulp

Kawerau 184 Pulp


Topography The topography of the forestland is predominantly flat to rolling

contour. Whilst this is not difficult harvesting terrain, wet weather poses challenges for lower cost harvesting options. Therefore harvesting would be targeted for the drier period of the year if possible, specifically the October to April period. The harvesting method most suitable would be predominantly ground based harvesting, which may include tracked extraction machines e.g. tracked excavators and bulldozers Altitude is 660 to 880m above sea level.

Soils The major soil type throughout the Rangitaiki Station is a Taupo and

Kaharoa ash base. The flatter areas consist of undulating valley systems infilled with coarsely textured Taupo breccia, dissected by shallow ephemeral waterways. The steeper areas consist of a mantle of Taupo ash overlying deep deposits of Waimahia lapilli. There is a potential for severe gully and sheet erosion in the steeper areas, and consequently many forested areas are already subject to a soil conservation covenant. Harvesting and roading methods will need to be respectful of the potential for erosion. In particular, exposure of bare ground must be minimised by management activities to reduce the risk of sheet erosion. Any cultivation should be carefully considered as there is the potential for severe sheet, rill and gully erosion.

Climate Rainfall: The mean annual rainfall at nearby Minginui forest is

approximately 1523 mm and is relatively evenly distributed during the year. January to March are the driest months, and May the wettest with the highest average rainfall of 145 mm. Temperature: The mean annual temperature is around 11.4 degrees Celsius. Heavy ground frosts are common throughout the year with an average of 132 frosts per year. May, June and July have the highest proportion of ground frosts. Occasional light snowfall can occur during the coldest periods.


Legal ownership The legal descriptions of the freehold land on which the forest is situated

is as follows: Section 1 SO 50992 Section 1 SO 51504 Section 1 SO 55210 Section 1 SO 58815 Section 1 SO 58835 Section 1 SO 58836 Section 1 SO 58909

The ecological landscape

Rangitaiki forest is located on SH5 approximately 50 km from Taupo. This range is a tilted rift ridgeline of volcanic origin with an overall north-facing slope. Rangitaiki forest falls within the southern end of the Kaingaroa Ecological District, in the Eastern Volcanic Plateau Ecological Region. This district is characterised by a volcanic history, owing to the 186 AD Taupo eruption that completely destroyed all forests within an 80 km radius. The resulting Kaingaroa Ignimbrite plateau is dominantly covered in coarse volcanic ash soils with variable drainage. Historically, the landscape had sparse pockets of podocarp forest and scattered wetlands within a vast matrix of lowland tall tussock, scrub and fernland. Following Polynesian and European settlement, extensive clearance of native scrub and forest occurred to provide land for agriculture and forestry in the Central Volcanic Plateau region. Much of the indigenous vegetation in the District has been cleared for plantation forestry, with very little Dracophyllum, tussock, scrub and wetland areas remaining intact, and most is severely degraded.

The following table shows vegetation types as required by the Draft

National Standard for Plantation Forest Management in New Zealand. The predominant Land Environment (LENZ code) represented by the indigenous ecosystems remaining within Rangitaiki is F7.1, the statistics of which are listed below.

Ecological District or LENZ type: LENZ F7.1 Original (pre-Maori) percentage of ecosystem type in Ecological District within land title:

100 % 494,186 ha

Natural ecosystem area remaining 15.3 % 75,601 ha Proportion of remaining natural ecosystem under protection: 79.1 % 59,807 ha Protection by certificate holder 1.55 % 926 ha Protected areas as a % of management estate 27.9%

SEPTEMBER 2010 Map 1 - Forest Location Map Page 10

4. Map 1 - Forest Location Map

SEPTEMBER 2010 Socio-economic profile and adjacent land Page 11

5. Socio-economic profile and adjacent land

Forest history Rangitaiki Station is a sheep, beef and deer pastoral farming operation.

Forestry has been established on the station primarily for the purpose of soil conservation (protection against wind erosion and gully and rill erosion in ephemeral waterways), but also as shelter for stock and alternative species have been established for farm aesthetics. Pastoral growth is also improved through shelter from the wind. Areas established in forest were predominantly low productivity sites in agricultural terms due to the instability of the slopes and potential for erosion on the ephemeral waterways.

Current social profile

Rangitaiki forest is a small, currently passive, incremental contributor to the social profile of the area. The forests are very small in comparison to large forestry players in the region. The land and forests are privately owned; contribution to the local economy by way of added incremental employment and infrastructure is negligible.

Associations with Tangata Whenua

The land at Rangitaiki is freehold. Iwi associated with the region is Tuwharetoa. No specific concerns in respect of this land title are currently known.

Neighbours Neighbours to the forest estate boundaries have a special relationship to

an interest in the management of the forest(s). Activities within the forest may positively or negatively impact upon their quality of life or businesses in a number of ways, while inappropriately managed operations could create risks of adverse health, safety and environmental hazards. Neighbours may use the forests for recreational purposes or place reliance on the forests for provision of water quality or quantity services. Boundary issues such as weed and pest control, access and boundary alignment issues may also involve neighbours. The following table lists the forest neighbours and their primary activities. Some or all of these parties should be consulted when operations are proposed in forest areas adjacent to their boundaries :


SEPTEMBER 2010 Socio-economic profile and adjacent land Page 12

...continued Owner/Occupier Location Activities Phone numberTimberlands forestry 07-3431070W.A. Stevenson Holdings Ltd State Highway 5 farming/forestry 09-9848400Foxbay Properties Ltd 672 Forest Rd 07-3337232Maxwell Farms (Taupo) Ltd State Highway 5 farming 07-3338708Le Pine Trustees Ltd Matea Rd 07-3842865P.J. and H.E. Beijeman, CGR Trustee Services Ltd State Highway 5 07-3842886Department of Conservation conservation land 07-3868607 A location map showing the position of these neighbours is contained in

Appendix 1.

SEPTEMBER 2010 The Regulatory Environment Page 13

6. The Regulatory Environment

Regulatory considerations

In order to minimise the risk to forest owners, managers and contractors, it is important that relevant legislation and agreements are identified and appropriate measures put in place to ensure that breaches of legislation are avoided. The following legislation and agreements summarise key regulatory & voluntary controls that currently apply to forest operations in the forest.

Resource Management Act 1991

Rangitaiki forest is subject to the provisions of the Resource Management Act (RMA) 1991. The RMA is the foundation of a resource management system that promotes the sustainable management of natural and physical resources and is now the principal statute for the management of land, water, soil and other resources in New Zealand. Under the RMA, Rangitaiki forest falls under the Taupo District Council (TDC) for land management issues and the Environment Bay of Plenty (EBOP) Regional Council for soil conservation and water quality issues.

District Rangitaiki forest is under the jurisdiction of the Taupo District Council.

All parts of the Taupo District Plan became operative between October 2007 and December 2008. Under the plan this block is zoned Rural A and is a permitted land use. Maps A20 and A26 locate the entire Rangitaiki Station. Plan rules specific to this forest estate are tabulated over the page.


Rule Ref Activity Requirement 4b.3.4 Planted Tree

Vegetation Planted tree vegetation shall not be planted or allowed to grow in a position which will shade any road carriageway, between the hours of 10am and 2pm on the shortest day of the year.

4b.3.6 Noise Permitted- noise levels shall comply with maximum levels (55dBALeq during day and 40dBALeq during night). Note: The "best practicable option" provisions of Section 16 of the Resource Management Act 1991 also apply.

4b.3.8 Signage Maximum signage must be no more than 2m2 total face area per allotment, relate to the activity undertaken on the allotment, and not be flashing, reflectorised or illuminated.

4b.3.9 Earthworks No dust or silt nuisance beyond the boundaries of the allotment (except internal allotment boundaries). Note: Where activities such as earthworks and on-site sewage treatment involve discharges to land, air and water, a resource consent may be required from the relevant regional council.

4b.3.10 Odour There shall be no discharge of offensive or objectionable odour at or beyond the boundary of a site. Note: In determining whether an odour is offensive or objectionable the council shall have regard to the assessment guide contained in 7.8.

4e.6.1 Natural Values Indigenous Vegetation Clearance within a Significant Natural Area is permitted where:

i. The vegetation is no more than 3m in height; and ii. The clearance is less than or equal to 100m2 in area per

allotment or 1% of the total area of the identified Significant Natural Area on that allotment, which ever is lesser; and

iii. The vegetation cleared is more than 20m away from any water body; and

iv. The vegetation cleared is not Monoao or Frost Flat vegetation.


Regional Plan The forest comes under the jurisdiction of Environment Bay of Plenty as

the Regional Council. The Proposed Regional Water and Land Plan was notified on 19 February 2002. The hearing of submissions was held during April 2003, and Council�s decisions were notified on 4 May 2004. Rules as they currently affect Rangitaiki forest are:

Rule Ref Status Environment Bay of Plenty - Bay of Plenty Regional Plan 56A Activities in

Beds of Rivers, Streams, and Lakes

Discretion Restricted � Lines, cables or pipelines under the bed of a river, stream or lake.

59D Culverts Controlled � Culverts where fill height is greater than 1.5 metres and no greater 2.5 metres, or multiple culverts in the crossing.

59E Culverts Discretionary Restricted � Culverts where fill height is greater than 2.5 metres.

61 Bridges Permitted � Service crossings attached to bridges

66 Reclamations Permitted � Existing, lawfully authorised reclamations of the bed of a river, stream of lake.

69 River Schemes

Permitted � Maintenance of river schemes.

70A River Schemes

Permitted � Maintenance of identified streams and rivers (including modified watercourses).

72 Geothermal Water

Discretionary � Take and use of geothermal water heat or energy in accordance with Tikanga Maori.

73 Geothermal Water

Prohibited � New or increased take and use of geothermal water, heat or energy in geothermal management group 1 areas.

76 Damming and Diversion of geothermal water

Discretionary � Damming or diversion of geothermal water and associated structures.

77 Geothermal Water

Discharge of geothermal water

78B Wetlands Permitted � Minor disturbance of vegetation in wetlands associated with cable logging by accredited forestry operations.

79A Wetlands Sustainable use of wetlands



...continued The following rules are to be treated as operative in accordance with section 19(1)(a) of the Resource Management Act.

Rule Ref Status Environment Bay of Plenty - Bay of Plenty Regional Plan 3 Forestry,

Earthworks and Harvesting

Permitted � Forest harvesting and forestry earthworks by accredited forestry operators

3A Forestry, Earthworks and Harvesting

Controlled � Forest harvesting and forestry earthworks by accredited forestry operators

10A Grazing and Stock in the Beds of Surface Waterbodies

Discretionary � Grazing of land

21A Discharges to Water and Land

Permitted � Discharge of contaminants to land for the purpose of emergency service fire training.

22 Discharges to Water and Land

Permitted � Discharge of dye of gas tracers

23A Discharges to Water

Permitted � Discharge of water to water between artificial watercourses.

24 Discharges to Water

Permitted � Salt water flushing of land drainage canals, artificial watercourses and modified watercourses.


Permitted � Application of compose, wood fibre, animal manure and grade Aa biosolids of vermiculture material to land.


Permitted � Farm dumps


Permitted � Offal Holes


Restricted Discretionary � Discharge of stormwater to surface water.

30B Discharge to Water

Restricted Discretionary � Discharge of stormwater to land soakage.

32 Discharges to Water and Land

Permitted � Composting operations.

32A Discharges to Water and Land

Controlled � Composting of offal and animal carcasses.

All other regional rules are subject to appeals, and are not yet operative.

Use the Regional Land Management Plan for relevant rules.


Historic Places Trust Act 1993

Historical and Archaeological Sites

Records of archaeological and historical places are maintained in the NZ Archaeological Association Site Recording Scheme run by the Historic Places Trust (HPT). These sites are also included in schedules of places and sites of significance in District plans along with sites of cultural significance. Under the Historic Places Act it is the landowner�s responsibility to identify any historic sites on their land prior to undertaking any work which, may disturb or destroy such sites. Where such circumstances exist, an �Authority to Modify or Destroy� will be sought from HPT. Such authorities are similar in function to a resource consent and if granted, normally come with conditions that must be met. The process to apply for authorities is documented in the PF Olsen EMS. If a site is found or suspected on any block, the protocols specified in Olsen�s EMS, and any others specifically developed in conjunction with HPT and Iwi or other stakeholders must be observed. The New Zealand Archaeological Association Site Recording scheme database has been checked and there are no sites currently recorded on Rangitaiki Station. The low occurrence of sites in the immediate region of Rangitaiki Station indicates that the probability of a new site being discovered is low.

Consents & authorities held

There are no forestry or archaeological site disturbance consents currently held for the forest areas in Rangitaiki. Future resource consents will be required for some future harvesting operations.


Climate Change Response Act 2002 � The Emissions Trading Scheme

Forests in New Zealand are governed by rules related to New Zealand�s Kyoto commitments to reduce the nation�s carbon footprint and contribution to associated climate change. These rules are embodied in the Climate Change Response Act 2002. Rangitaiki forest contains 450.1 hectares of forest that was existing as at 31st December 1989. This is split into 351.2 hectares and 98.9 hectares of radiata pine and Douglas fir respectively. At the time of harvest, these stands will be subject to a deforestation tax equivalent to the tonnes of CO2 projected to be released from decomposition of the forest at a unit financial value determined by the internationally traded emission units. This tax is payable if the forest is not replanted or, if left to regenerate naturally, does not achieve the regulated heights and stocking densities. The ramifications of this ETS are yet to be finalised in legislation before parliament at the time of writing. The balance of the forest consisting of 458.2 hectares was planted on �Kyoto compliant� land that was vacant as at 31st December 1989. This is split into 420.3 ha of radiata pine, 3.9 ha of Douglas fir, 4.8 ha of eucalypt and 1.1 ha of Cupressus lusitanica. These forest areas have not yet been registered to participate in the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme and are not subject to the accrual of emissions credits and liabilities under that scheme at the time of writing this management plan. The stated objective of Landcorp Farming Ltd is to participate in the ETS and earn credits for the carbon sequestered by thee Kyoto compliant forests.

Other relevant legislation

Other relevant legislation in relation to the growing and harvesting of the tree crop are:

1. Biosecurity Act 1993;

2. Conservation Act 1987;

3. Fencing Act 1978;

4. Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977;

5. Forests Act 1949;

6. Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996;

7. Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

For a comprehensive list of relevant legislation refer to Olsen�s EMS. Forest owners can be held liable for breaches of these Acts and may be held responsible for damage to third party property. Appropriate protection should be taken to minimise these risks.


NZ Environmental Code of Practice for Plantation Forestry.

All operations carried out on the property should be undertaken to the standards specified in the New Zealand Environmental Code of Practice for Plantation Forestry. This document sets out guidelines which ensure safe and efficient forest operations that meet the requirements of sound and practical environmental management.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Environmental Policy and Practices Page 20

7. Environmental Policy and Practices

Introduction Environmental policy and practices are an integral part of every

operation that takes place on the forest. Regular monitoring of key environmental parameters will be undertaken where necessary to ensure that the impact on the forest environment from events such as wind storms, flooding and fire, and of agents such as pests and diseases, and weeds are minimised. The management of the forest recognises the importance of the natural and social environment for the future of its business. The people employed in the forest and processing plants, the neighbouring land owners, the appropriate iwi and the community at large are all recognised as stakeholders. All activities within Rangitaiki forest are subject to management within a framework set by Olsen�s environmental policies and Environmental Management System (EMS).

Policy PF Olsen Limited Environmental Policy:

PF Olsen Ltd is committed to:

Sustainable forest and land management;

Promoting high environmental performance standards that recognise the input from the community in which we operate;

Where appropriate applying the Principles and Criteria of the Forest Stewardship Council across forest management.

Substantial additional detailed policies are contained within PF Olsen Ltd�s EMS.

Environmental management goals

The environmental management system (EMS) implemented by PF Olsen has the following objectives:

1. Achieve a greater understanding and ownership of environmental responsibilities and performance by all Olsen�s personnel and contractors;

2. Complete compliance with environmental legislative requirements and non-legislative environmental commitments of the company;



...continued 3. Establishment and maintenance of sound working relationships with

each of the regional and district councils that are applicable to our operations;

4. Establishment and maintenance of sound working relationships with appropriate contractors, iwi, neighbours, recreation users, community groups, infrastructure authorities (e.g. Transit New Zealand and Transpower) and other stakeholders on which our activities may effect;

5. Increase awareness of environmental effects of operations among staff and contractors;

6. Use energy effectively and efficiently, and reduce waste and pollution;

7. Promote and undertake sound environmental stewardship of land and other natural resources on or adjacent to this land.

To achieve the objectives listed above, PF Olsen set specific environmental targets against which progress is being measured. These environmental targets are reviewed on an annual basis.

The EMS framework

The EMS is a core document defining the policies, processes and procedures that govern the physical implementation of forest management activities. The EMS applies a systematic approach certified to ISO 14001 standards to ensure that prevention of adverse and harmful impacts is effective. Key elements comprising the EMS are: Defined I.T. mounted processes and procedures including flow

charts, guiding users through all the steps from planning to implementation of operational activities.

An operational implementation framework that follows the well recognised management process of �planning, doing, monitoring and adjustment.

Linkages to forms and I.T. based databases to capture information required to monitor environmental aspects.

Hyperlinks to key internal and external resources required to assist managers to achieve required outcomes in a legally compliant and environmentally sound way.

Comprehensive I.T based systems for management of environmental incidents, operational monitoring, regulatory compliance, training, corrective actions / quality management and management of protected ecosystems.

Procedures for managing emergency situations.



...continued Procedures and resources for managing and minimising the use of

chemicals including compliance with FSC policies related to Hazardous Chemicals.

Periodic internal and external auditing. Audits are an integral part of the EMS. The purpose of these audits is:

To check compliance with agreed procedures; and Discuss ways to improve the EMS to better achieve its targets

and objectives. An Environmental Management Group (EMG) assists the Environmental Manager, who is responsible for ensuring that the EMS is maintained and implemented to ISO 14001 standards. Internal audits to ensure compliance with the EMS and to improve the procedures of the EMS are undertaken at least once every two years.

Hazardous substances management

Hazardous substances are any substances, which may cause adverse environmental impacts and/or injury or health problems if incorrectly handled or used. The hazardous substances that may be used on Rangitaiki forest are:

Pesticides

Fuels

Oils

Fire retardants

Surfactants

Transportation, storage and labelling of these hazardous materials must all comply with the provisions of the Health and Safety manual, which is maintained under ISO 9002 certification. Furthermore, the forest manager is committed to reducing the use of hazardous substances as much as possible. This involves use of alternative methods for the control of weeds, pests and diseases where these are effective and efficient. The use of fuels and oils is minimised where possible. Fire retardants are only used when required and surfactants are only used to make more efficient use of specific herbicides.


Assessment of environmental risks

Several areas of typical forest management have been identified as posing a possible environmental risk within Rangitaiki forest. The Environmental Assessment Matrix below summarises the identified risks for the forest. The level of risk has been evaluated in the matrix as high �H� or low �L�, or not applicable �NA�. Prior to operations such as clearfelling, land preparation and production thinning, an assessment is undertaken to quantify the risk involved in carrying out the particular operation, and steps are implemented to manage the risks.

ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES/ISSUES

Forestry Operational Activities E

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Harvesting L L H L L L L H L L

Earthworks L L H L L L L H L L

Slash Management L L L L L L L L L L

Stream Crossings L H L H L L L L L L

Mechanical Land Preparation

L L H L L L L L L L

Burning L L L H L L L H H L L

Planting H L L L L

Tending L L

Fertiliser Application H L H H L L

Agrichemical Use H L L H L H L H H L

Oil & Fuel Management H L H L H L

Waste Management L L L L

Forest Protection L L L L L L

SEPTEMBER 2010 Forest Estate Description Page 24

Forest Management

8. Forest Estate Description

Forest area

The net stocked areas have been measured from a map produced by PF Olsen Ltd (Forest Stands Map). The estimated net stocked areas of each stand are set out in the following table.

Area Statement � Rangitaiki Forest

* There is 6.2 hectares of planted plantation over the legal boundary. This area is included in the Net Stocked Area.

Current species The main species grown at Rangitaiki forest is Pinus radiata (radiata

pine). This species has been chosen to best meet the management objectives set out above and in section 2 given the characteristics of the forest land as described in section 3. Other species established as productive stands are Eucalyptus, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas fir), and Larix decidua (European larch).

Soil conservation compartments

In addition to productive stands captured by the stand records, there are a number of soil conservation compartments that have been established in conjunction with EBOP. There is a covenant on these areas, and trees must be maintained in perpetuity. These compartments are included in the stand records and identified as possessing soil conservation constraints. At times EBOP may be directly involved in the harvesting of these areas to ensure soil conservation objectives are met. Re-establishment of a productive species will be considered, otherwise permanent retirement of the areas into natives may be required. EBOP fund activities in soil conservation areas to varying levels and all options will be considered as the need arises. There are a range of species currently established in these soil conservation compartments. At present, only stands with productive potential are captured in the stand records. Work is underway to ensure all planted stands are recorded in the stand records notwithstanding any formal protective status they may have.

Gross area (ha)

Net Stocked Area (ha)

Area awaiting restocking (ha)

Other*

945.1 877.8 67.3 6.2


Site index Site index is a measure of productivity of a site in terms of height

growth of radiata pine. The parameter used is the mean height in metres of the largest 100 trees per hectare at age 20 years. Equations exist to predict this height given a measured height at any age. Site index for stands on Rangitaiki forest is estimated at 27.0m. PF Olsen has not completed any measurement inventory for stands to date, therefore site index will be updated as new measurement information becomes available.

Current crop status

The majority of stands on Rangitaiki station are on a pruned regime. This is the case for the older, currently pruned stands and the newer unpruned stands. The work on the older stands was not completed by PF Olsen and no measurement information is available. Shelter belts will generally remain unpruned unless the trees are assessed to be good form and benefit from a pruned regime. A sampling programme nearer to harvest time is recommended to determine actual pruned log quality.


Age class distribution

The current age class distribution of Rangitaiki forest is illustrated below.

Age Class Distribution of Rangitaiki Forest

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

1970

1972

1974

1976

1978

1980

1982

1984

1986

1988

1990

1992

1994

1996

1998

2000

2002

2004

2006

2008

Year of Establishment

Are

a (h

a)

Species mix A variety of exotic plantation species have been planted at Rangitaiki as

shown below. The vast proportion is radiata pine due to its fast establishment on low natural fertility, erosion-prone soils and hill country soils, and the well established markets for timber. The alternatives do however provide a benchmark upon which to base future replanting considerations depending on the outcome of the initial rotation. Forests with mixed species help reduce risk, acting as a buffer for market changes and pest and disease threats. Downturn in the markets for radiata pine markets may be offset somewhat by access to minor species timber resources. The same offsetting in risk could apply if a pest or disease was introduced that caused damage or mortality to radiata pine.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Reserve areas and significant species Page 27

9. Reserve areas and significant species

Introduction Indigenous biodiversity management in or associated with exotic forests

is an essential component of everyday forest management. Although exotic forests can provide a level of biodiversity, the reserve areas are usually the source of most indigenous biodiversity. Rare and threatened species can also be found associated with exotic forests and require special attention for management.

Covenants and Significant Natural Areas

There are a number of areas on Rangitaiki Station that are Significant Natural Areas (SNA) under the Taupo District Council and Queen Elizabeth II Trust covenants (QEII). Mostly these areas are remnant frost flat vegetation that run into the headwaters of the Rangitaiki River. The areas are identified in FIPs and in Olsen�s GIS. Protected areas will appear on all Rangitaiki maps produced. The maps in Appendices 2 and 3 show the location of the SNA and QEII areas. Other areas of the farm and forest have been identified as potential soil erosion hazard zones. A total of 54.7 hectares have been covenanted by EBOP and subsequent activities must be carried out to avoid and minimise soil erosion. Many of these soil conservation areas have been planted in production forestry. Therefore there are requirements with respect to harvesting, land preparation and planting that must be observed in these areas. The map in Appendix 2 shows the location of these soil conservation areas. The soil conservation areas are identified within FIPs against the stand they fall within. Table 1 below shows a summary of the forest area affected by the SNAs and covenants, whilst Appendix 2 has a full list of stands within the SNA areas.

Table 1: Summary of stand areas that fall within SNA areas on Rangitaiki Station

SNA name SNA number Area within stands (hectares)

Kokomoka Margin A - 1.8Matea Road Kanuka - 1.5Kanuka Remnant - 24.6Matea Road Frost Flat 384 19.8Otangimoana Stewardship Area 173 137Kokomoka-Whakatau Covenant 173 44.1Edgecumbe Covenant (Landcorp) 176 38.2Matea Road Stewardship Area 175 53.6Whakatau-Kotara Covenant 178 1.4Kotara-Otangimoana Covenant 177 1.2Kokomoka Forest 246 37.8Otangimoana Headwaters Secondary Scrub 386 6.3TOTAL 367.3

SEPTEMBER 2010 Reserve areas and significant species Page 28

Rare and threatened species

Because of the relatively small and fragmented nature of most of the stands, and that the forest is embedded within a productive pastoral grassland landscape, the probability of rare and endangered species being present is low. Even so, the remaining indigenous remnants provide connectivity for species movement in the area. Within the farm and forest areas, habitats of threatened species have been allocated protective status and are under the management of the Department of Conservation. Exotic species such as the Californian quail, magpies and pheasant are common. In the opposite end of the Kaingaroa Ecological District to Rangitaiki forest there are speckled skink, and a substantial population of spotless crake. Other indigenous species found in the area include brown kiwi, blue duck, the New Zealand scaup and fernbird. While no specific sightings of rare species have been recorded thus far on Rangitaiki Station, it is expected that the threatened New Zealand falcon may utilise the area occasionally and with increasing likelihood once harvesting of the exotic stands commence. Kaingaroa forest borders Rangitaiki Station and it is quite possible that falcons will fly in from this forest from time to time. There are several large Department of Conservation managed lands within and bordering Rangitaiki Station. A rare species sightings database will be maintained for these forests.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Non-Timber Forest Products and Other Special Values Page 29

10. Non-Timber Forest Products and Other Special Values

Introduction Forest plantations may also provide for non-timber forest products that

enhance the economic well being of the owner or legitimate forest users. Non-timber products are an important means of maximising the production capacity of the forest whilst maintaining environmental and social values. The forest management plan provides procedures for developing and managing these resources. Forests can also provide many other special values, which are provided for and managed through the forest management plan.

Non-timber forest products

The following non-timber products are currently being produced or developed in Rangitaiki forest: Beekeeping Firewood Grazing

Recreational usage

Rangitaiki Station is utilised periodically by farm staff and some community members for recreational purposes. Current recreational activities are as follows: Hunting for deer and pigs Rabbit and hare shooting The forest will continue to be open for legitimate use subject to entry by notification to farm manager. A sign-in system is utilised to ensure hazards are notified and accepted.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Map 2 - Forest Stands Map

11. Map 2 - Forest Stands Map

SEPTEMBER 2010 Commercial Crop Establishment and Silvicultural Operations Page 31


12. Commercial Crop Establishment and Silvicultural Operations

Introduction The choice of species is the most important issue in plantation forestry.

The species has to be suitable for the site and meet the objectives of Landcorp Farming Ltd. It is vital to ensure that the planting material is of good quality. Forest operations are implemented to ensure a good quality crop and maximum growth. These operations include: land preparation, establishment, weed control, pest and disease control, fire protection, pruning and thinning. Forest health surveys are an important part of protecting plantation forests from disease and nutrient deficiencies. If surveys identify signs of impaired forest health then foliage sampling will take place to validate and quantify the issue. The appropriate action can be then undertaken, subject to the size and scale of the issue. General property maintenance is also an important factor in forest management and can include maintenance of roads and tracks and other assets such as buildings, fences and water systems.

Crop species Radiata pine, when intensively managed, will produce a range of

different log types suitable for various processing options. The pruned butt log can be used to make knot-free veneer or decorative timber. The unpruned logs can be used for structural timber, for veneer or for feedstock for finger-jointing. The small logs and those with defects and excessive knots can be used for pulp and paper, MDF and other reconstituted wood products such as tri-board and particle board. Radiata pine is the most common species processed in New Zealand and export markets are well developed for both finished products and logs. In New Zealand, radiata pine is also the main focus in terms of research and development. Past research and development has resulted in improvements in growth, form and wood characteristics as well as development of a range of finished products, building codes and timber standards.

Other species Other species established as productive stands are Eucalyptus,

Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Larix decidua. Most have not been well tended so performance is variable.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Commercial Crop Establishment and Silvicultural Operations Page 32


Establishment New planting at Rangitaiki forest during the period of this management

plan will be on any currently un stocked areas that be identified from time to time whose best land use is forestry rather than grazing. A number of these areas have been identified in the past. These areas are currently subject to weed investation. In particular Pinus contorta infested areas have been cleared and re-planted in productive species. Re-establishment after harvest and will depend on the level of harvesting that occurs (see Section 14 Harvesting Strategy). Re-establishment will aim to use high quality treestocks suitable for the site and market. These will be investigated at establishment.

Pre-establishment forest flora and fauna

Prior to re-establishment of the tree crop, a review will be conducted to identify whether there are any special considerations required to protect or enhance the conditions for rare, threatened or endangered species within the area to be replanted or the immediate surrounds.

Tending The current tending regime implemented in Rangitaiki forest is a pruned

log regime for the larger non-shelterbelt stands, consisting of two to three pruning operations and a waste thinning operation. The shelterbelt stands are generally not pruned due to form issues from exposure. The tending regime of any new stand established during the period of this plan will be considered on a stand by stand basis at the time of establishment, and reassessed prior to the tending operations falling due.

Tree nutrition The soils in Rangitaiki forest are not likely to be deficient in nutrients

for healthy tree growth. However, there are soils within New Zealand that are deficient in one or more nutrients. The most common nutrient deficiencies are likely to be:

Magnesium � Magnesium deficiency is a particular problem of the Central North Island and is associated with the phenomenon known as mid crown yellowing where the middle of the tree crowns turn a yellow colour. Heavily pruned trees and some seedlots are more predisposed to the deficiency than others.

Boron � Boron deficient trees can suffer dieback from the terminal buds and this symptom is closely associated with moisture stress and drought. Trees growing on the drier East Coast of both Islands and on the pumice soils of the Central North Island are prone to boron deficiency.

Foliar samples will be taken if nutrient deficiency symptoms are seen or expected. Fertiliser will only be applied if the health and the growth of the trees are significantly affected.

SEPTEMBER 2010 FOREST INVENTORY, MAPPING AND FOREST RECORDS Page 33


13. FOREST INVENTORY, MAPPING AND FOREST RECORDS

Forest growth and development is monitored through regular forest

inventory. Forest inventories providing stand information are required at different times and for different reasons throughout the life of the rotation. PF Olsen Ltd have developed procedures for each of the following four types of inventory to be applied on Rangitaiki forest: pre-assessment

quality control

mid crop

MARVL (Method of Assessing Recoverable Volume by Log Grade)

Pre-assessment Pre-assessment surveys allow quantify stand parameters prior to a

tending operation. They allow for:

The calculation of contract rate for tending.

A final check on the validity of the regime and timing of commencement of operations, i.e. DOS targets can be achieved or crop height is sufficient for pruning lift scheduled.

Sampling intensity is low, with a minimum of five plots per stand and data is collected from only six trees per plot. Data collected is then used with the time standards set out in the tending manual to calculate a manday target and hence a contract rate per hectare. Contract rates are often set by tender or negotiation, reducing the need to pre-assess each and every block. Pre-assessment does provide good quality information on the work content involved in each tending operation and sets a base price for negotiation. PF Olsen Ltd currently have no pre-assessment data on Rangitaiki forest. Pre-assessment surveys will be carried out prior to future tending operations commencing.



Quality control Quality control is carried out during and after a tending operation. The

aims of the quality control system PF Olsen have established are to:

Collect sufficient data to monitor a contractor's performance and correct this if necessary, with minimum delay.

Collect sufficient quantitative data to provide reliable estimates of the crop state.

Provide data as input for growth modelling.

Provide data for estimating timing of the next tending operation.

Sampling intensity is a minimum of 8 full plots per stand or one plot per 2 hectares with every fourth plot being a full measurement plot. This provides the data for the current crop status and future growth modelling. Data is summarised by Forest/Compartment/Stand prior to being entered onto the computer database programme "Forest Land Information" where it is retained as a permanent record. The records can then be directly accessed for growth model and Computer Growth Simulation Programmes (StandPak) runs, annual reports and valuations. PF Olsen Ltd�s "Tending Manual" details the procedures to follow for pre-assessment and quality control plotting. Quality control has only been completed in stand 0001/02 of Rangitaiki forest. Future plots will be carried out at the completion of each tending operation.

Mid-crop inventory

The principal aim for the mid-crop inventory is to collect stand data for inputs for growth modelling. Under current tending regimes mid-crop inventory is scheduled for between 11 and 15 years of age. Sampling intensity is targeted to achieve 10% confidence limits on Basal Area on a stand by stand basis. Smaller stands may be aggregated into crop types to achieve this.



MARVL inventory

The principal aim for the MARVL inventory is to obtain estimates of recoverable volume by log grade. This information can then be used to develop marketing and harvesting strategies. MARVL inventories will be undertaken when stands reach five years or less from harvesting. Sampling intensity is targeted to achieve 10% confidence limits on basal area on a stand by stand basis. Smaller stands may be aggregated into crop types to achieve this as in mid-crop inventory.

Mapping Digital mapping of Rangitaiki forest currently exists, but will require

updating from time to time as the forest changes. The work involves:

mapping forest detail from existing aerial photography; and

defining legal boundaries.

All the data is supplied in a digital format. The digital data is retained, processed and managed on PF Olsen Ltd�s GIS (Geographic Information System).

Pruning and thinning contractors are often paid on an area basis and accurate mapping prevents overpayment and avoids disputes regarding the area actually completed. Accurate mapping also assists with budgeting, planning and calculation of future revenue/tree crop value, infrastructure and harvesting and also meeting climate change emissions obligations. After harvesting, the contours and any relevant forest detail are available for planning and management of the second rotation.

Mapping updates Stands are remapped from new aerial photography around age four

(when the trees are visible on aerial photography) to accurately determine boundaries and areas and around two years prior to harvesting to assist with harvest planning.



Forest records Forest records are essential in monitoring the forest operations by

providing an historic perspective to the physical condition of each stand. Forest records should provide the following information:

An historic record of forest operations for each stand including a summary of quality control data indicating the results and quality of the operation.

A forest map showing the location, stand boundaries and net stocked area of each stand.

Crop inventory results.

Yields achieved from each stand at production thinning or clearfell.

Costs incurred for each operation.

Rangitaiki forest records are maintained on a computerised Land Information database. This customised database is part of Olsen�s FIPS system (Forest Information and Planning System). Computer record systems allow for fast retrieval of information, production of reports and statistics. Forest records assist with planning and control of forest operations and provide a means of measuring the performance of a Forest Manager. In a management audit forest records can be verified against the status of the tree crop and unit costs derived for each operation.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Harvesting Strategy and Operations Page 37


14. Harvesting Strategy and Operations

Harvesting strategy

The harvesting strategy for radiata pine employed at Rangitaiki forest is to harvest the tended forest stands as close as possible to their optimum economic age as practical. This is the age at which the growth in volume and improvement in quality is offset by the cost to maintain the forest for another year. The optimum rotation length for radiata pine is expected to be within 25 to 30 years. Stands where minimal tending has been completed may be harvested earlier, particularly when relevant markets are favourable. Alternative species will be harvested when market conditions are favourable and in conjunction with other blocks within close proximity. Some radiata pine stands are currently in the �economic window� for harvest during the period of this management plan. Because the resource quantity is small and incremental to the regional wood supply, market conditions, logistics (such as the availability of suitable harvest contractors), and the requirements of resource consents will determine the actual harvest time.

Getting harvest ready

An annual harvesting programme is prepared before any harvesting operations commence. The programme includes a detailed harvest plan for each discrete area, covering the following considerations:

1. Terrain - what method can be used that is safe for the operators;

2. Soil and water � the impact on soil and water will be minimised and/or mitigated;

3. Safety � to ensure forest operations are carried out safely and comply with all legal requirements;

4. Wildlife habitat and ecosystems � these will be maintained where possible or the impact on such habitats will be minimised and/or mitigated;

5. Other forest values � to ensure that other forest values such as recreation and non-timber products are recognised and where practical protected;




...continued 6. Offsite impacts � to identify and minimise the adverse impacts of

forest operations on people and the environment; and

7. Financial � to ensure forest operations are carried out in an efficient and effective manner and consider both short and long term implications.

The harvest planning process revolves around a more detailed assessment of environmental risks (Section 7) and specific documentation as illustrated in the process overview below.

Assessment of Effects Harvest Planning

Checklist

Detailed Prescription

Resource Consent or Permitted

activity + HPT

Riparian rules

MAP Post Operative Checklist



Current harvesting programme

Harvesting is already underway in Rangitaiki forest. Looking forward, the volume of wood expected from the harvesting programme is constant and even over the next few years. The table below shows the stands that are expected to be harvested within the duration of this five year management plan.

Period Approx area (ha) Species # Stands

Planting year

2010/11 40.5 P. rad 3 1970 P. rad 1 1975 P. rad 1 1976 P. rad 2 1977 P. rad 1 1978 P. rad 1 1979 P. rad 4 1980 P. rad 2 1981 P. rad 7 1983 P. rad 1 1984 P. rad 1 1987 2011/12 40.0 P. rad 1 1970

P. rad 1 1974 P. rad 6 1975 P. rad 4 1976 P. rad 6 1977

2012/13 40.1 P. rad 8 1977 P. rad 13 1978 P. rad 3 1979 P. rad 11 1980

2013/14 40.2 P. rad 2 1980 P. rad 4 1981 P. rad 2 1982 P. rad 3 1983 P. rad 7 1984 P. rad 13 1985 P. rad 10 1986

2014/15 16.2 P. rad 19 1986 P. rad 3 1987 P. rad 5 1988

The ageclass structure of the forest means that from 2014 to approximately 2021, there will be little or no harvesting, as there was no significant planting from 1988 to 1995. Harvesting of the Douglas fir stands is planned to commence from 2015.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Property Management and Protection Page 40


15. Property Management and Protection

Statutory pest obligations

Pest management within Rangitaiki forest is subject to statutory obligations under the Regional Pest Management Strategy administered by the Environment Bay of Plenty regional authority. The strategy applies to both pest plants and animals and categorises them in terms of management objectives. See Appendix 4 for a list of plant and pest species current at the time of writing. The categories and landowner obligations are summarised below:

Plant Pest CategoriesEnvironmental Bay of Plenty

Pest Category Objectives EBOP Land Owner

Eradication pest

Eradication of currently known populations in the region by 2020. Immediate control leading to eradication of new occurrences.

Undertakes direct pest control. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.

Bound by rules and statutory obligations.

Total control pest

Protection of indigenous biodiversity and production values by controlling currently known populations in the region and immediate destruction of new occurrences.

Undertakes surveillance and co-ordination of control programmes. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.


Progressive control pest

Reduction in density and/or distribution with priority given to controlling isolated or satellite populations.

Undertakes monitoring and investigations, publicity and education. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.


Boundary control pest

Protection of production values by controlling spread.

Undertakes monitoring and investigations, publicity and education. May undertake pest control. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.


Regional surveillance pest

1. Understanding of distributions, impacts and control options such that individual pests may be reassigned to other categories at next Regional Pest Management Strategy review. 2. Voluntary control by land occupiers assisted by way of approved EBOP programmes.

Records and monitors infestations; investigates distribution and impacts, and feasibility of future control options. May undertake pest control. Enforces statutory obligations.


Responsibilities

Full details of plant pest classifications, rules and obligations can be found in part 3.3 of the Environmental Bay of Plenty Regional Pest Management Strategy.



Continued on next page... ...continued Animal Pest CategoriesEnvironmental Bay of Plenty

Pest Category Objectives EBOP Land Owner

Eradication pest

Eradication of currently known populations of wallabies in the region by 2025, and the other eradication pest animals by 2008. Immediate destruction of new occurrences.

Undertakes destruction. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.


Progressive control pest

Reduction of current populations to levels where indigenous biodiversity is not threatened by way of a regional management plan.

Develops a regional management plan with other interested parties. Enforces rules and statutory obligations.


Population control pest

No increase in populations across the region, with decreased levels in targeted areas.

Provides technical advice, assistance, monitoring. Coordinates and supports approved programmes, which may include pest control. May undertake pest control. Enforce rules and statutory obligations.


Responsibilities

Full details of animal pest classifications, rules and obligations can be found in part 3.4 of the Environmental Bay of Plenty Regional Pest Management Strategy.

Pest control The main animal pests in Rangitaiki forest are the introduced possum,

rabbits and hares. Deer and pigs are also present. Possums attack the growing tips of both plantation and native trees, causing stem malformation and die back. Possums are also a threat to the farms and neighbouring property owners stock health as they can carry and spread tuberculosis to domestic stock. Possum control is currently being completed on Rangitaiki station by EPRO on behalf of the Animal Health Board. An initial 1080 drop was completed, and ongoing control using Cholecalciferol gel bait is to be maintained. This ground baiting method will be the preferred option in the immediate future as FSC derogations on use of 1080 restrict aerial application methods to the land (by any party) to emergency situations. Possum baiting using Pindone pellets in bait stations is also carried out at establishment. Other pests include rabbits and hares at the time of establishment. These are managed with poison baiting and ground shooting. As with possums rabbit and hare bait stations are installed at establishment and loaded with Pindone rabbit bait. Deer and pigs are controlled through recreational hunting.




...continued Animal pests in Rangitaiki forest will be controlled using ground control

methods as required, which prevent impacts on non-target species. The forest manager will coordinate operations with organisations such as the Regional Council and the Department of Conservation to achieve effective and efficient control with in the forest area and on neighbouring land, where required. A few plant pests are present on Rangitaiki. Gorse, broom and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) require control on the fringes of the planted area and at establishment and replanting. Planting forests on heavily infested areas has been used in the past as an effective control method for these weed pests. EBOP and the QEII trust will be assisting with lodgepole pine control in the SNA, soil conservation and QEII areas. Outside these protected areas, weeds are kept under control by farming activities, including regular cultivation of the soil, pasture renewal and crop establishment.

Disease control Diseases, which can affect the forest trees and adjacent native

vegetation, are monitored throughout the year and once a year by a professional independent forest health assessor. Most diseases cause little damage and do not require control. The exception is Dothistroma, a fungus which attacks pine needles. This fungus is controlled using a copper-based fungicide, but only when the infection reaches a critical level. Dothistroma infection can also be controlled though silviculture by timely thinning and pruning operations, which increases air movement and lowers humidity levels.

Protected ecosystems, reserves and species

The nature of the forest type associations regenerating at Rangitaiki mean that with only quite basic management strategies the forests can, over extended periods of time, be expected to return to healthy examples of forest types that were widespread in the locality. The primary management actions for all required are: 1. Maintenance of complete stock proof fencing. 2. Eradication of, or at least permanent maintenance of, low goat

numbers. 3. Maintenance of low possum populations through use of

Cholecalciferol baiting.




...continued 4. A steady programme of wilding pine poisoning or felling until the

indigenous stands are clear of them. 5. Basic photo-point monitoring to demonstrate improvement over

time. The wetlands are of higher ecological status. Key steps will be to: 1. Investigate viability of QEII covenanting. 2. Establish joint management objectives if covenanted under QEII or

otherwise, a. Maintain all stock proof fencing b. Survey for threatened species c. Undertake willow and small wilding removal on an ongoing

basis d. Maintain bait stations if rare species present e. Work around broom/ blackberry infested area and allow

regeneration of or restock with native species All these actions will be implemented or maintained over the period of this plan though restoration will extend beyond the first period.

Fire prevention and control

With the weather patterns normally experienced in New Zealand during the period late spring/summer, fire can be a real threat to the forest. This can be minimised by:

1. Having an effective fire plan.

2. Active prevention measures which include; restrictions on allowable access, fire prevention signage, publicity when fire danger prevails, access to adequate water sources, and selective forest grazing to reduce fuel within stands.

3. Effective detection systems which includes; good communication systems, mapping, and fire plan alert procedures.

4. A close link with the relevant fire authorities, and an understanding of equipment and trained manpower requirements.

5. Good forest management that recognises the influence of terrain, roading network and accessibility, and fuel build-up from silvicultural practice, that will influence fire prevention and control measures.

Forest management requirements

The following forest management practices may be employed to assist fire prevention measures:

1. Develop suitable internal access systems, predominantly tracking, but road construction at a later stage.

2. Maintain existing firebreaks and develop others as the need arises.

3. Time silvicultural operations to minimise the potential of fuel build-up and for better control of work activity.




...continued 4. Have forest areas grazed where fuel build-up can be reduced.

5. Endeavour to control access, and limit only to legitimate land users. Promote public awareness through appropriate signage.

6. Develop a �fire plan� that encompasses prevention, detection and control procedures.

Fire authority responsibilities

The legal responsibility for fighting forest fires lies with the respective territorial land authorities where the forest is situated. In the case of Rangitaiki forest the Rural Fire Authority (RFA) is Pumicelands. In the event of a fire that starts within the forest, the RFA is responsible for attending and providing the resources to extinguish the fire. Where a fire starts outside the forested area and moves into the forest, the RFA has recourse to the Rural Fire Fighting Fund to compensate for fire fighting costs. There is a close liaison with the RFA in terms of developing the �fire plan� and the maintenance of good communication relative to potential risks and fire danger ratings.

Fire insurance With regard to the location of the forest and the high public activity

around the fringes, there will always be the potential for fire. If a fire originates within the forest, the owners will ultimately be liable for suppression costs. A major fire may cost many thousands of dollars to extinguish, with the main costs being the use of heavy machinery, helicopters, and manpower. In the case of Rangitaiki forest, Landcorp Farming Ltd have a policy of self insurance.

Public liability insurance

In the case of small independent woodlot owners it is normal to maintain public liability insurance cover with a fire fighting extension, to indemnify against unforeseen adverse activity both within the forest area and adjoining land tenure. In the case of fire spreading from Rangitaiki forest onto adjoining land, Landcorp Farming Ltd would be liable for the fire fighting costs and any damage to property. Landcorp Farming Ltd hold general indemnity to the limit of $20 million for any one occurrence and a fire fighting extension of $2 million for any one occurrence.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Monitoring Page 45


16. Monitoring

Introduction To ensure that the management objectives identified in this plan are

being achieved various monitoring exercises outside normal operations management have been developed. Monitoring results are summarised and reported to Landcorp Farming Ltd as and when required and are also, where appropriate, made publicly available through the PF Olsen Ltd webpage.

Values monitored Management inspections are completed regularly during operations and

periodically between times to monitor all aspects of the forest growth, health and conditions. The findings of the inspections are detailed and, where appropriate summarised on the Olsen FSC website. The full monitoring framework implemented and applicable to Rangitaiki forest is tabulated below. More detailed comments follow.

Environmental Process Monitoring Framework Monitored Element

Include

Components Data Source Data medium

Reporting / Website frequency

Chemical usage A.I usage/ Area overuse

operations supervisors

FIPS

Form

On demand / annual

Consultation Activity

Complaints. operations supervisors & planners

Form

Annual / annual

Environmental Incidents

Incident number

/ categories


FIPS

Form

On demand / annual

Flora & Fauna Species & Status frequencies/ new finds.

operations supervisors, public, crews

FIPS

Form

Annual / annual

Forest estate Structure

Area (plantation & Protected ecosystem)/ age-class/ species/forest type/protection status.

management plans/stand records

FIPS stand records

On demand / annual

Forest growth periodic inventory. ISO9002

contractors FIPS records

Periodic-annual � not on web

Forest Health Disease & health National Forest surveillance program1

document Periodic-annual � not on web


1 Forest health inspections are undertaken annually, by either Vigil or Forest Dynamics, through the NZ Forest Owners Association forest health scheme.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Monitoring Page 46


...continued

FSC Membership

Block/ location/name FIPS register FIPS client database

On demand / annual

Health and safety statistics

LTI / accidents & incidents.


FIPS Monthly/ annual

Internal Audit CAR activity

Frequency * category Auditors/ees FIPS Form

Annual / annual

Log Production On harvest

Total logs/ FSC markets

log dockets Woodtrack On demand / annual

Operational monitoring

Audit trends/cause analysis


FIPS Form

Monthly / annual

Pests RTC / kill returns or other

supervisors /contractors

Permit and contractor returns

Annual where relevant

Protected Ecosystem Condition

Condition trends Photopoints To be established

5 yearly-

Recreational & non-timber

Permits issued branch offices / forest security

FIPS Form

Annual / annual

Resource consents

NA Number/compliance operations planners

FIPS 6 monthly / annual

Stream Monitoring

NA Clarity +/- other specific

supervisors /contractors

Spreadsheet Monthly / annual where relevant

Environmental Training

Courses, numbers, names

Staff FIPS Form

Annual/as relevant

Financial Budget versus expenditure is monitored through PF Olsen Ltd�s FIPS

system and presented to Landcorp Farming Ltd when requested. This information is not made public.

Social Consultation with stakeholders has been undertaken and constant

feedback from these stakeholders (and others as they become apparent) is monitored. This includes actions undertaken to resolve disputes and issues.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Future Planning Page 47

17. Future Planning

Introduction This plan pertains to the management of Rangitaiki forest and will be

adhered to for the next 5 years. Any deviation from this plan will be justified only on the basis that the changes do not adversely affect the environment. Any changes, which are contrary to the policies contained in this management plan require a full review of this plan. The next review date for this plan is: September 2015. The forest management plan is used for both medium and long term planning.

Operation plans For the short term we use operation plans. These plans are prepared

annually in accordance with this management plan. This operation plan and associated budget are subject to approval by Landcorp Farming Ltd at the beginning of each financial year.

SEPTEMBER 2010 Appendix 1: Neighbour locations Page 48

FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN FSCGS04 RANGITAIKI FOREST

Appendix 1: Neighbour locations

SEPTEMBER 2010 Appendix 2: Significant Natural Areas, Taupo District Council Page 49


Appendix 2: Significant Natural Areas, Taupo District Council

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SEPTEMBER 2010 Appendix 3: Covenants and Soil Conservation Areas Page 50


Appendix 3: Covenants and Soil Conservation Areas

SEPTEMBER 2010 Appendix 4: Pest Plants and Animals � Environment Bay of Plenty Pest Management Strategy Page 51


Appendix 4: Pest Plants and Animals � Environment Bay of Plenty Pest Management Strategy

Environment Bay of Plenty Plant Pests

Eradication Total Control

Progressive Control

Boundary Control

Regional Surveillance

African feather grass Alligator weed Kudzu vine Marshwort Nassella tussock Royal fern Senegal tea Spartina Water poppy White-edged nightshade

Wild kiwifruit Apple of Sodom Asiatic knotweed Banana passion fruit Boneseed Bushy asparagus Cathedral bells Climbing spindle

berry Heather Lantana Lodgepole pine Old man�s beard Variegated thistle Wild ginger Woolly nightshade Yellow flag iris

Blackberry Gorse Ragwort

Blue morning glory Cestrum spp Chilean rhubarb Climbing asparagus Darwin�s barberry Houttuynia Italian buckthorn Japanese walnut Jasmine Mexican devil Mexican feather grass Mignonette vine Mile-a-minute Mist flower Moth plant Pampas Parrots feather Privet Purple loosestrife Purple nutsedge Snow poppy Tree of heaven Wild green goddess lily

Environment Bay of Plenty Animal Pests

Eradication Progressive Control

Population Control

Regional Surveillance

Rooks Wallabies Argentine ants Koi carp Catfish

Goats (feral) Possums Rabbits (feral) Mustelids Cats (feral) Rats (feral)

Eastern rosella Magpies Wasps Mynahs

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