Coastal Zone Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Plan

Transcription

1 Coastal Zone Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Plan Summary Document December 2009 Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page i

2 Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION Background Project Overview 5 2. RISK IDENTIFICATION PROCESS Strategic Risks for City of Mandurah Site-Specific Climate Change Risks in the Coastal Zone TREATING THE RISKS Strategic Adaptation Plan Site Specific Adaptation Planning WHERE TO FROM HERE? Monitoring and Evaluation Implementation 35 Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page ii

3 Executive Summary A Coastal Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Project was conducted by the City of Mandurah, supported by funding from the Federal Government of Australia, between November 2008 and July The first step in the risk assessment process was the identification of the range of potential climate change impacts to which the City of Mandurah coastal zone may be susceptible. These include: (1) Sea level rise increasing rates of erosion of the open ocean coast, leading to increased risk to development adjacent to the active beach zone and/or loss of beach amenity; (2) Modification of sediment transport processes leading to increased erosion in known sediment limited environments, such as in lee of groynes and on rock platforms; (3) Increased water levels within the estuary leading to increased overtopping stress on canal and channel walls and decreased bank stability; and (4) Decline in freshwater entering the estuarine system leading to change in salt/freshwater interface and consequently change in species composition. The risks that these impacts pose to the successful functioning of the City of Mandurah local government were subsequently considered at both a strategic and site-specific level. The strategic risk assessment focused on the entire City of Mandurah coastal zone. The strategic assessment did not consider where the risks might be highest, but rather what risks may be faced. The site-specific risk assessment advanced the assessment by determining where risks were highest and how the risks varied throughout the coastal zone. Results of the strategic risk assessment indicated that the highest priority risk for the City of Mandurah coastal zone is uncertainty in long-term landuse planning and infrastructure design. Other high priority risks include impacts on infrastructure (private, local government and recreational) through coastal erosion and inundation. Coastal erosion and inundation have a direct relationship to other climate change risks in the coastal zone, including destruction and damage to development and utilities (government, private and recreational); and loss of natural reserves. These risks will be managed through implementation of the strategic adaptation plan. At a site-specific level, the study area was screened to identify which climate change risks were relevant to discrete sections of the coast. Subsequently, the risks relevant to discrete sections of the coast were analysed to assign an overall risk rating per coastal zone. The most commonly rated high risks across all compartments, in order, included: Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 1 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, storm events and damage, potentially resulting in destruction; Higher rates of council building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; Loss of private property; and Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation. The areas identified as subject to Extreme climate change risk within the coastal zone were: Halls Head Beach (Compartment A5) - erosion of dunes with threat to road; regular replacement of fence line and associated rehabilitation efforts. Falcon Beach (Compartment A11) - integrity of the retaining wall and the adjacent coastal road; loss of foreshore.

4 Overall, the work conducted during this Project highlighted the fact that the City of Mandurah is vulnerable to the impacts of Climate Change. Strategic and adaptive responses are required to address identified risks. In light of this, the key outcome of the Project was an adaptation plan to deal with strategic and site-specific risks throughout the City of Mandurah Coastal Zone to ensure ongoing community resilience. The Strategic Adaptation Plan outlines adaptation options to treat the strategic risks. The options are presented in order of implementation priority and provide guidance on who should be responsible for implementation. The Strategic Adaptation Plan also provides information on the risks that each adaptation option contributes to treating, as each option can treat multiple risks and each risk may be treated by multiple adaptation options. The Site Specific Adaptation Plan provides a locational focus for effort within discrete coastal zones. Overall, coastal areas with a current erosion trend, a narrow foreshore reserve, low relief and inadequate coastal protection works have a low capacity to accommodate the potential impacts of climate change. For example: Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 2 At Halls Head Beach (Doddis Beach) - The Masterplan in the pipeline for this area should incorporate consideration of climate change risks. The area is highly susceptible to storm damage under elevated water levels and associated conditions and the cost benefit of protection and relocation should be considered. Proactively nourish the dunes. Consider protection and maintenance of dunes to protect council infrastructure (toilet block, car park, fence) or movement of infrastructure. Communicate with local residents regarding the impacts of tree loss and implications (to decrease tree poisoning activities that occurs in this area. Coastcare officer should prioritise this area for management however management should occur in conjunction with a review of stabilisation options to ensure that any actions taken are sustainable. At Falcon Beach Adaptation activities should be directed pending outcomes of the Falcon Bay stabilisation review currently underway; specific focal points should be the toilet block and car park, which are susceptible to inundation and erosion in their current condition and consequently will be more susceptible/at risk under future climate conditions. CoM should review the outcomes of the report currently under way by DPI/CoM to determine what actions would be taken to mitigate these impacts. Implementation of the Adaptation Planning outlined here requires mainstreaming of climate change adaptation across Council and integration of climate change issues in key documentation that the Council utilises to deliver its services to the community. An important next step for the City of Mandurah along the path to climate change adaptation will be the elucidation of thresholds or trigger points of the implementation of predetermined actions. These will necessarily be based on the outcomes of monitoring of climate performance indicators (e.g. water availability, pest levels, and changes in rainfall patterns) that should be established in line with the monitoring and review process associated with the adaptation action plan outlined in the current report. It is clear that a coordinated, systematic monitoring and management system is required throughout the City of Mandurah coastal zone. This type of program should be built through collaborative effort from all key stakeholders to ensure that climate change adaptation becomes a mainstreamed, cross cutting theme across Council. In this respect, key issues to be resolved in order to move forward with a successful program of adaptation for the City of Mandurah may be summarized as: Establishing what is there an asset inventory throughout the coastal zone; Determining the current condition of these assets comprehensive condition assessment; and Establishing who owns them ongoing management responsibility.

5 This information is fundamental to the establishment of any effective adaptation strategy within the City and should be collated and reviewed, through coordination with the specially designated Climate Change Officer, before further mainstreaming activities are attempted. While there is a recognition that the silo-ed nature of local government acts as a barrier to systematic asset management and subsequently climate change adaptation activities, many key advances have been made in recent times that suggest a willingness and ability to overcome these difficulties. Importantly, no matter how robust the system in place to facilitate the type of mainstreaming exercise discussed in this report, the ultimate onus rests with the officers and elected officials within the heart of local government and within the community. Uptake and implementation of the measures, actions and options to address climate change adaptation outlined in this report will require a commitment from City of Mandurah staff across all divisions to communicate proactively and systematically collaborate on cross cutting themes such as coastal asset management and maintenance and disaster planning and management. A key concern in this regard will be involvement of relevant utilities providers and relevant representatives from State and Local government. This type of proactive approach will facilitate City of Mandurah in the development of resilient communities from a socio-economic and environmental perspective that may move forward through this century continuing to prosper in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 3

6 1. INTRODUCTION This document summarises key outcomes of a Coastal Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Project conducted by the City of Mandurah, supported by funding from the Federal Government of Australia, between November 2008 and July It is intended as an overview document to communicate recommendations and inform pathways for implementation. The information contained herein may be supplemented with detailed background information in a number of technical reports that were produced through the Project (Table 1). Table 1: Project Technical Reports Report Title Mandurah Issues Paper Risk Assessment Methods Strategic Risk Assessment Report Strategic Adaptation Report Contents Provides a broad outline of the study area together with an overview of the issues that may be encountered in the face of a changing climate. Provides a detailed overview of the risk assessment approach adopted for this project. Provides detailed information on the characteristics of the City of Mandurah coastal zone. It sets the context for the risk assessment and presents the outcomes of the sensitivity assessment, vulnerability assessment and risk assessment. Presents the approach to adaptation assessment and the outcomes of adaptation planning, including Strategic and Site-specific adaptation plans. 1.1 Background The Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has confirmed that sea level rise and its associated impacts are expected through the 21st century and beyond due to human emissions of greenhouse gases (IPCC, 2007). Likely impacts of climate change will include a rise in mean sea level with a possible increase in the frequency and magnitude of extreme events and associated elevated storm surges and wave heights (Table 2). Within south-western Australia, Mandurah has been specifically identified as an area potentially at risk to these projected impacts. In the face of this predicted global climate change the City of Mandurah will be presented with a set of challenges pertaining to the management and maintenance of its valuable coastal resources and infrastructure. The diversity and conservational significance of Mandurah s natural environments and the expanse of coastal living throughout the area, mean the effects of climate change are likely to have a significant impact on the natural/social balance within the City in years to come. This is particularly so due to its highly developed nature and degree of exposure to climate and climate related factors (Figure 1). Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 4

7 Table 2: Impacts of Climate Change in the Coastal Zone (adaptated from Abuodha and Woodroofe 2006) Climate Change Impacts Effects on the Coastal Environment Higher sea levels Higher sea temperatures Changes in precipitation patterns and coastal runoff Changed oceanic conditions Changes in storm tracks, frequencies and intensities Bio-geophysical effects Displacement of coastal lowlands and wetlands Increased coastal erosion Increased flooding Salinisation of surface and groundwaters. Socio economic impacts associated with climate change include: Loss of property and land Increased flood risk/loss of life Damage to coastal protection works and other infrastructure Loss of renewable and subsistence resources Loss of tourism, recreation, and coastal habitats Impacts on agriculture and aquaculture through decline in soil and water quality. Secondary impacts of accelerated sea level rise: Impact on livelihoods and human health Decline in health/living standards as a result of decline in drinking water quality Threat to housing quality Impacts on infrastructure and economic activity: Diversion of resources to adaptation responses to sea level rise impacts Increasing protection costs Increasing insurance premiums Political and institutional instability, and social unrest Threats to particular cultures and ways of life 1.2 Project Overview Recognising the potential implications associated with a changing climate, the City of Mandurah sought Federal support to undertake the Coastal Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Project. The objectives of the Project were to: Identify and prioritise risks arising from climate change impacts for the Mandurah Coastal Zone. Develop strategies for managing these risks at a range of temporal and spatial scales. Develop a Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Integrate results of climate change risk assessment and adaptation responses into the proposed Climate Change Response Plan. The key outcome of the Project was an adaptation plan to deal with strategic and sitespecific risks throughout the City of Mandurah Coastal Zone. This document has been produced to communicate key recommendations from the overall Project and, where appropriate, provides links to source documents where additional detailed information may be found. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 5

8 Figure 1: Study area and existing coastal management issues. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 6

9 2. RISK IDENTIFICATION PROCESS 1 A number of climate change impacts were identified in the City of Mandurah coastal zone. These included: (5) Sea level rise increasing rates of erosion of the open ocean coast, leading to increased risk to development adjacent to the active beach zone and/or loss of beach amenity; (6) Modification of sediment transport processes leading to increased erosion in known sediment limited environments, such as in lee of groynes and on rock platforms; (7) Increased water levels within the estuary leading to increased overtopping stress on canal and channel walls and decreased bank stability; and (8) Decline in freshwater entering the estuarine system leading to change in salt/freshwater interface and consequently change in species composition. These impacts contribute to a number of risks to the successful functioning of the City of Mandurah local government. A risk assessment was conducted to identify, analyse and evaluate potential climate change risks. The risk assessment was conducted at a strategic and site-specific level. The strategic risk assessment focused on the entire City of Mandurah coastal zone. The strategic assessment did not consider where the risks might be highest, but rather what risks may be faced. The site-specific risk assessment (referred to as compartment-bycompartment risk assessment in the Strategic Risk Assessment Report) advanced the assessment by determining where risks were highest and how the risks varied throughout the coastal zone. WHAT IS A CLIMATE CHANGE RISK? Risk is a function of the likelihood that a risk will occur and the consequence of the risk. Climate change risk results from: (i) A change to climate variable (for example, decline in rainfall or increased mean annual temperature, altered wind regimes) (ii) The change to climate variable will result in an impact (i.e. decline in freshwater entering the estuarine system) (iii) The impact will result in a risk (shift in the distribution of plant and animal species) For further information: Strategic Risk Assessment Report Section 4: Physical Sensitivity, page Strategic Risk Assessment Report Section 5: Ecological Sensitivity, page Strategic Risk Assessment Report Section 6: Vulnerability Assessment, page Strategic Risk Assessment Report Section 7: Risk Assessment, page Refer to the Risk Assessment Methods document for full details on the approach taken to identify, analyse and evaluate risks. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 7

10 2.1 Strategic Risks for City of Mandurah The highest priority risk for the City of Mandurah coastal zone is uncertainty in long-term landuse planning and infrastructure design. The City of Mandurah is recognised as one of the fastest growing local governments in Western Australia; and resides in the hypergrowth category, defined as having average annual population growth over a 5-year period ( ) in excess of 5% per annum (CoM 2007). Rapid growth increases pressure on long term planning in that it necessitates the need to bring acts forward. The City is acutely aware that the development and planning decisions made now may lead to increased exposure to climate risks in the future. The financial and legal uncertainties associated with this issue are a high concern for the City. Other high priority risks include impacts on infrastructure (private, local government and recreational) through coastal erosion and inundation. There is a high level of development adjacent to the active beach zone throughout the City of Mandurah coastal zone. Consequently, coastal erosion and inundation, resulting from an increase in sea level and/or modification of sediment transport processes, is a significant risk for the City. Coastal erosion and inundation is a climate change risk that has a direct relationship to other climate change risks in the coastal zone, including destruction and damage to development and utilities (government, private and recreational); and loss of natural reserves. Detailed results of the strategic risk assessment are presented in the following tables. Risks are presented by Local Government Service area. The allocated risk rating assigned to each risk is also presented. The definitions for each risk level are provided below. EXTREME priority risks demand urgent attention at the most senior level and cannot be simply accepted as part of routine operations. Actions required to treat an extreme priority risk are likely to be beyond the standard operational procedures and require additional human and/or financial resources. HIGH priority risks are the most severe that can be accepted as part of routine operations, but they will be the responsibility of the most senior operational management. Senior management will be responsible for ensuring that adaptation actions towards management of the risk are implemented. MEDIUM priority risks can be expected to form part of routine operations but they will be explicitly assigned to relevant managers for action and maintained under review. LOW priority risks will be maintained under review but it is expected that existing controls will be sufficient. In general, EXTREME and HIGH priority risks need to be treated immediately or subject to more detailed analysis. Low priority risks on the other hand, may be set aside with no further action to treat them apart from routine reviews to ensure that there has been no change that would make them more severe. For further information: Strategic Risk Assessment Report Section 7: Risk Assessment, page , 129 Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 8

11 Infrastructure and Property Services Road/pavement construction and maintenance Buildings Coastal infrastructure Inundation of surface roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction. Changes in frequency of interruption of road traffic from extreme weather events and emergency transport routes disrupted. Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, storm events and damage, potentially resulting in destruction. Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation. Destruction, damage and disturbance to council-managed marinas and boat ramps. Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences M M M H H H H Planning Policy and Developments Inappropriate location of urban expansion areas. Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design, i.e. location of future developments, suitability of infrastructure designs to cope with changing climate Loss of private property and community assets. Increase in insurance costs. Increased pressure on disaster management and response resources. H E H M M Recreational Facilities Provision and use of recreational facilities Impacts on coastal recreational infrastructure. Loss of existing public space in coastal areas. Impacts on tourism/recreation activities along the coast. Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage H H H H Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 9

12 Natural Resource Management Coastal Management Weed/pest management Loss of private property/community assets. Loss of beach width Changes to wetlands due to sea level rise, shoreline erosion and saltwater intrusion Changes in distribution of invasive species due to changes in climate and associated loss of biodiversity and changes to bushfire intensity. H M H H Biodiversity Shifts in distributions of plant and animal species. M Increased risk of population and species extinctions. Reduced ecosystem resilience to stress. Increased pressure on dunal systems. Increases in ecological disturbances. M M L H Water and Sewerage Services Water Supply Changes in mean and peak stream and river flows. Increased potential for water contamination. M M 2.2 Site-Specific Climate Change Risks in the Coastal Zone The coastal zone was screened to identify which climate change risks were relevant to discrete sections of the coast 2. An example of the output is presented in Table 3. Subsequently, the risks relevant to discrete sections of the coast were analysed to assign an overall risk rating per coastal zone. The results are presented in Figure 2 and 3. The level of risk assigned to each climate change issue, per compartment, varied throughout the coastal zone, dependent upon: the level of sensitivity of the compartment; the socioeconomic and ecological function of the compartment; and the proximity of socio-economic or ecological functions to the shore. However, the most commonly rated high risks across all compartments, in order, included: Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, storm events and damage, potentially resulting in destruction; Higher rates of council building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; Loss of private property; and 2 For the purpose of the assessment, the coast was separated into compartments based on the physical characteristics of the area. The compartments were established during the sensitivity assessment and used throughout the risk assessment process to discuss site-specific risks and sitespecific adaptation strategies. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 10

13 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation. Table 3: Risks allocated to coastal compartment A1: the overall risk rating for the compartment was High. Compartment A1 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, storm events and damage, potentially resulting in destruction. Loss of private property Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs Changes in frequency of interruption of road traffic from extreme weather events and emergency transport routes disrupted Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation. Shifts in distributions of plant and animal species. Reduced ecosystem resilience to stress Increased pressure on dunal systems. Shifts in distributions of plant and animal species. Increases in ecological disturbances Changes in distribution of invasive species due to changes in climate and associated loss of biodiversity and changes to bushfire intensity Risk Rating E E H M H H H M M L L L The results of the compartment-by-compartment risk identification and analysis are presented in full in Appendix 3 of the Strategic Risk Assessment Report. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 11

14 Figure 2: Risk ratings assigned to discrete coastal and estuarine areas Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 12

15 Figure3: Risk ratings assigned to discrete Channel areas Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 13

16 3. TREATING THE RISKS 3 Climate change risk treatment is also referred to as adaptation. Four key steps were undertaken to develop an adaptation plan for the City of Mandurah: 1. A review of the principles of good risk treatment to guide selection of risk treatment options. 2. An overview of risk treatment types: Identification of generic treatment measures and Categorization of adaptation actions by adaptation theme aligned to local government function. 3. Identification of preferred adaptation options for Strategic risks and development of a Strategic Adaptation Action Plan. 4. Identification of preferred adaptation actions to treat the Site Specific Risks. WHAT IS ADAPTATION? According to Department of Climate Change (2007) adaptation strategies aim to cushion, neutralise, adjust to or avoid the impacts of climate change. They can be technological (e.g. desalination), behavioural (e.g. consumption choices), managerial (e.g. maintenance practices) or policy (e.g. planning regulations). These strategies allow larger levels of climate change to be acceptable but aim to reduce the adverse consequences and increase any positive consequences (Pittock, 2005). Due to the long time scales, climate change adaptation risk treatments will usually involve strategic planning and the allocation of new resources. They are thus distinguished from short-term reactive adjustments. Risk treatment consists of determining the most cost-effective option to be undertaken in response to the identified risks and implementation of those options through adaptation actions (AGO, 2006). For further information: Strategic Adaptation Report Section 3: Options to treat the Risk, pg Strategic Adaptation Plan A generic list of adaptation options available to treat the identified risks was analysed to determine the adaptation options applicable to treating risks specific to the City of Mandurah. The analysis incorporated information on the priority of the risk; the current controls in place to manage the risk; and potential barriers to implementation. The output was a list of adaptation options applicable to treating Strategic climate change risks in the City of Mandurah, presented in order of implementation priority (Table 4 4 ). 3 For further details on the approach to risk treatment, refer to the Strategic Adaptation Report, Introduction and Options Available to Treat the Risk: Section 1 and Section 3 pg Table 4 is summarised for full details of the adaptation plan see pg of the Strategic Adaptation Report Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 14

17 For further information: Strategic Adaptation Report Section 4: Preferred Options for Identified Strategic Risks, pg The options for strategic adaptation (in order of implementation priority) may be summarised as follows: Incorporate climate change scenarios into policy and decision making processes Review relevant council strategies and plans to ensure that they incorporate the potential effects of climate change Modification of council planning approval process Review insurance coverage of council facilities Monitor changes in condition of structure so that any modifications/retrofitting occurs on time and prior to failure Where location of infrastructure is not flexible investigate standards of construction that reduce their sensitivity Review geotechnical information and establish information gaps and needs Identify alternative options should the existing building and infrastructure be impacted upon in order to maintain services and connections Review the structural integrity of existing defence structures Undertake detailed assessment at site specific scale to focus adaptation for high and extreme risks in most vulnerable areas Investigate drainage improvements at all known flash flood points of transport system with CoM boundaries, and advocate similar actions outside CoM boundaries Continue upgrading stormwater infrastructure using water sensitive urban design methods and ensuring that modeling caters for climate change Establish coastal monitoring program Review and amend design specifications (retrofitting existing developments and provisions for new developments) Increase community awareness of the potential impacts of climate change to encourage private land conversation Review and update disaster planning and management Review current plans and strategies to incorporate local climate change impacts into NRM plans Protect species/ecosystems through active management controls, as appropriate Develop an integrated monitoring strategy to facilitate mainstreaming of adaptation measures across all local government functions (applies to existing and planned monitoring activities) Ensure quality and validity of information sources for decision making Disseminate information on implications of identified risks of climate change within City of Mandurah Coastal Zone to relevant authorities/agencies Communication with/education of rate payers on climate change risks and adaptation activities Strengthen the profile of climate change within local government Communicate with key service providers to facilitate shared care approach to the management of the impacts of climate change on key services within City of Mandurah Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 15

18 Establish/strengthen relationships with community groups to facilitate monitoring activities, raise awareness and participate in adaptation strengthening activities Importantly, each adaptation option can treat multiple risks and each risk may be treated by multiple adaptation options. The value of the adaptation plan is that is structured to ensure that the highest priority risks are treated first, within the bounds of any potential barriers to implementation and an understanding of the effectiveness of current controls in place to manage the risks. Consequently, the highest priority adaptation option is Incorporating climate change scenarios into policy and decision-making processes Followed by Review relevant council strategies and plans to ensure that they incorporate the potential effects of climate change Both of these options contribute to treating the highest priority risk: Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design For details on the actions that contribute to implementation of each of the adaptation option and the Directorate with responsibility for implementation, refer to the adaptation plan (Table 4). For further information: Strategic Adaptation Report Section 4: Adaptation Action Plan, pg Site Specific Adaptation Planning Site Specific Adaptation Recommendations were built on the outputs of the strategic adaptation planning by providing a locational focus for effort within discrete coastal zones. Overall, coastal areas with a current erosion trend, a narrow foreshore reserve, low relief and inadequate coastal protection works have a low capacity to accommodate the potential impacts of climate change. Consequently, adaptation efforts should be focused in these areas as a priority within the City. Adaptation options for each coastal zone were assigned as follows: High and extreme risks were examined within each compartment to determine whether additional adaptation options were applicable over and above those outlined in the Strategic Adaptation Plan. Tailored recommendations per compartment were built on the list of adaptation actions and options as outlined in Table 5. Each of these options was given a locational focus for treatment of risks at a compartment-by-compartment scale. An example of the output from site-specific adaptation planning is presented in Table 6. The full results of the compartment-by-compartment adaptation assessment are presented in the Strategic Adaptation Report; Section 5, Table 23, pg Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 16

19 Guidelines to Interpreting the Site Specific Adaptation Plan Each group of treatment options outlined at a site-specific level is associated with an implementation code (see Options Strategic column in Table 5 for example) that references back to the information provided in the strategic adaptation plan. In addition, where relevant, a further series of implementation instructions are associated with discrete options in specific compartments to refine the information provided at a strategic level. For further information: Strategic Adaptation Report Section 5: Site specific Risk Treatment, pg Strategic Adaptation Report Section 5: Site specific Adaptation Actions, Table 22, pg Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report (Updated April 2010) Page 17

20 Table 4: Strategic Adaptation Action Plan ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Incorporate climate change scenarios into policy and decision making processes Review relevant council strategies and plans to ensure that they incorporate the potential effects of climate change Liaise with State Government to review/update pertinent policies and plansinitiate dialogue with the State government to ensure that there is action towards new policy and planning regimes that include a 'defendable line'initiate request for coastal protection plan and supporting materials (a guide to defence works - a manual of proven techniques) Continue Works and Services, dialogue with State government to review Sustainable Development progress towards developing a coastal protection plan. A policy is in place but there is no plan. The plan should include sufficient detail to initiate detailed design (relates to property and infrastructure services concerns)revise planning guidelines for habitable floor levels to better protect future developmentlengthen strategic planning horizons For example, review natural area management and coastal management plan, in light of outputs of the climate change risk assessment, to ensure that they incorporate the potential effects of climate change. This will inform management efforts (i.e. shift effort, abandon effort or increase effort). Review and update local strategies and plans to incorporate the potential effects of climate change, as outlined in the Risk Assessment - ie development approval processes. Works and Services, Sustainable Development PPD1 Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design, i.e. location of future developments, suitability of infrastructure designs to cope with changing climate, etc; PPD2 Loss of private property; PPD3 Inappropriate location of urban expansion areas. WSS1 Changes in mean and peak stream and river flows leading to impacts on biodiversity; WSS2; Increased potential for water contamination ground water bores only PPD1 Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design, i.e. location of future developments, suitability of infrastructure designs to cope with changing climate, etc; PPD2 Loss of private property; PPD3 Inappropriate location of urban expansion areas. WSS1 Changes in mean and peak stream and river flows leading to impacts on biodiversity; WSS2; Increased potential for water contamination ground water bores only Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 18

21 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Modification of council planning approval process Review insurance coverage of council facilities Monitor changes in condition of structure so that any modifications/retrofitting occurs on time and prior to failure For example, to incorporate a requirement for geotechnical information for developments close to the shore to be provided to CouncilPromote erosion and inundation sensitive urban design at the plan making and development assessment stages of the planning process: update planning schemes to give greater weight to erosion riskprogressively incorporate higher design standards into asset management plans and rolling capital works programs Broaden insurance cover to better protect council from sudden clean-up costsawareness campaigns to at risk businesses, preparation and insurance Conduct monitoring of condition of structures, as part of asset management review. ID areas requiring immediate attention/ongoing monitoring (align to integrated monitoring strategy) Identify alternative options should the existing building and infrastructure be impacted upon in order to maintain services and connections Works and Services, Sustainable Development PPD1 Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design, i.e. location of future developments, suitability of infrastructure designs to cope with changing climate, etc; PPD2 Loss of private property; PPD3 Inappropriate location of urban expansion areas. PPD1 Increased uncertainty in long-term land-use planning and infrastructure design, i.e. location of Works and Services, future developments, suitability of infrastructure Sustainable Development, designs to cope with changing climate, etc; Corporate Services PPD4 Increase in insurance costs; WSS1 Changes in mean and peak stream and river Works and Services, Sustainable Development, Corporate Services, Community and Economic Development flows leading to impacts on biodiversity. IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; IPS3 Destruction, damage and disturbance to council-managed marinas and boat ramps; IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; PS5 Inundation of roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure; RF4 Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 19

22 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Where location of infrastructure is not flexible investigate standards of construction that reduce their sensitivity Review geotechnical information and establish information gaps and needs Review and amend design specifications (retrofitting existing developments and provisions for new developments): Design new low cost and relocatable coastal access pathways and dune fencing Investigate standards to reduce sensitivity of inflexible infrastructurewhere location of infrastructure is not flexible investigate standards of construction that reduce their sensitivity Request detailed geotechnical information from service providers in format suitable for review and analysis in council Develop Terms of Reference for Geotechnical works along the Foreshore Source Funding for Geotechnical works along the Foreshore (partnership with state government)commission Geotechnical investigations at required locations along the Mandurah foreshore IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, Works and Services, transportation; I Sustainable Development, PS3 Destruction, damage and disturbance to Corporate Services, council-managed marinas and boat ramps; Community and Economic IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of Development seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; IPS5 Inundation of roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction; RF4 Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage. IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of Works and Services, seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; Sustainable Development, IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, Corporate Services, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to Community and Economic infrastructure; Development RF3 Impacts on tourism/recreation activities along the coast. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 20

23 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Identify alternative options should the existing building and infrastructure be impacted upon in order to maintain services and connections Monitor changes in condition of structures so that any modifications occur on time and prior to failure: Conduct monitoring of condition of structures, as part of asset management review. ID areas requiring immediate attention/ongoing monitoring (align to integrated monitoring strategy) Identify alternative options should the existing building and infrastructure be impacted upon in order to maintain services and connections Works and Services, Sustainable Development, Corporate Services, Community and Economic Development IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS3 Destruction, damage and disturbance to council-managed marinas and boat ramps; IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; PS5 Inundation of roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction; IPS6 Changes in frequency of interruption of road traffic from extreme weather events and emergency transport routes disrupted; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure RF1 Impacts on coastal recreational infrastructure; RF3 Impacts on tourism/recreation activities along the coast. Review the structural integrity of existing defence structures Review outcomes of DPI assessment of existing coastal defence structures (currently underway) - This information will inform additional adaptation planning along the coast to be undertaken in conjunction with state governmentreview existing defence works for valuable infrastructure (not currently being considered by DPI coastal protection review, i.e. within channels and estuary)develop programme of works to upgrade existing defence structures, as identified from review Works and Services, Sustainable Development, Corporate Services, Community and Economic Development IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure; RF4 Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage; RF2 Loss of existing public space in coastal areas.; RF3 Impacts on tourism/recreation activities along the coast. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 21

24 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Undertake detailed assessment at site specific scale to focus adaptation for high and extreme risks in most vulnerable areas Investigate drainage improvements at all known flash flood points of transport system with CoM boundaries, and advocate similar actions outside CoM boundaries Write Terms of Reference for the completion of a 'Management Options' study to address specific high and extreme risks within the study area. The study should present all options so that Council is informed prior to committing to a defence plan. Quantitative information to evaluate each options should be presented (beyond the scope of the current strategic investigation) to assess costs and likely changes to amenity and environment e.g. may consider the realignment of the dual use path, and identifying sand sources to maintain beach amenity. Source funding for the completion of studycommission works Works and Services, Sustainable Development Better drainage and storm water capture: Investigate drainage improvements at all known flash flood points of transport system with CoM boundaries, and advocate similar actions Works and Services, outside CoM boundariescontinue upgrading Sustainable Development stormwater infrastructure using water sensitive urban design methods and ensuring that modelling caters for climate change IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure; RF1 Impacts on coastal recreational infrastructure; RF2 Loss of existing public space in coastal areas. IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; PS5 Inundation of roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction; IPS6 Changes in frequency of interruption of road traffic from extreme weather events and emergency transport routes disrupted; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 22

25 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Continue upgrading stormwater infrastructure using water sensitive urban design methods and ensuring that modelling caters for climate change Better drainage and storm water capture: Investigate drainage improvements at all known flash flood points of transport system with CoM boundaries, and advocate similar actions outside CoM boundariescontinue upgrading stormwater infrastructure using water sensitive urban design methods and ensuring that modelling caters for climate change Works and Services, Sustainable Development, Corporate Services, Community and Economic Development IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; IPS5 Inundation of roads in coastal areas, potentially resulting in destruction.; IPS6 Changes in frequency of interruption of road traffic from extreme weather events and emergency transport routes disrupted; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure; RF4 Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 23

26 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Establish coastal monitoring program Establish extent of current monitoring regimes what are existing beach/wetland/ecological monitoring programs: Where is monitoring undertaken? How often? What format are results? Who is custodian? What is information currently used for? How can this information be mainstreamed into coordinated adaptation planning? Ensure that all existing information is collated to inform gap analysis identifying target areas for future focus based on RA outputs. Communicate with state and federal government to ensure that local monitoring compliments work being undertaken under different umbrellas and may be used in a nested fashion use same benchmarks/standards/methodologiesdevelop partnership with local universities to encourage research in Mandurah e.g. research projects focused on key issues id as result of risk assessment; establish mode and extent of seasonal change at hotspot locations along the foreshore and nature of these changes to environmental drivers; response and recovery of coastal hotspot locations to impacts of winter storms;design a comprehensive coastal monitoring program based on evaluation of all above points include regular beach width monitoring and photographic monitoring. Records of photographic monitoring should be compiled with the historic photographic database. This will require insertion of benchmarks Sustainable Development, Works and Services NRM1 Loss of private property; NRM8 Increased pressure on dunal systems.; NRM2 Increases in ecological disturbances.; NRM4 Changes in distribution of invasive species due to changes in climate and associated loss of biodiversity; NRM6 Increased risk of population and species extinctions; NRM7 Reduced ecosystem resilience to stress; NRM8 Increased pressure on dunal systems. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 24

27 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Review and amend design specifications (retrofitting existing developments and provisions for new developments) Increase community awareness of the potential impacts of climate change to encourage private land conversation Design new low cost and relocatable coastal access pathways and dune fencing Investigate standards to reduce sensitivity of inflexible infrastructurewhere location of infrastructure is not flexible investigate standards of construction that reduce their sensitivity IPS1 Higher rates of building deterioration and associated maintenance costs; IPS2 Increased frequency, or permanent inundation of, coastal infrastructure and utilities, e.g. water, sewerage, gas, telecommunications, electricity, transportation; IPS3 Destruction, damage and disturbance to council-managed marinas and boat ramps.; IPS4 Increased erosion and/or exceedance of seawalls, jetties and other coastal defences; IPS7 Changes in frequency of wind, rain, hail, flood, and storm events resulting in damage/destruction to infrastructure; RF1 Impacts on coastal recreational infrastructure; RF4 Increased costs associated with operation and maintenance costs of public amenities/recreational sites due to storm damage. Review options to disseminate results of the current study to the community Develop information dissemination plan for the delivery of current study information to the NRM1 Loss of private property; communitycreate Community Awareness NRM8 Increased pressure on dunal systems.; Sustainable Development, program envisioned as a 5 year plan. NRM2 Increases in ecological disturbances.; Works and Services Information and awareness raising for: the NRM3 Changes to wetlands due to sea level rise, outcomes of the current research (Phase I); the shoreline erosion and saltwater intrusion importance of monitoring aiming for volunteer support (Phase II); the outcomes of the management review Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 25

28 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Review and update disaster planning and management Review current plans and strategies to incorporate local climate change impacts into NRM plans Request LEMC (in writing or at meeting) to undertake an emergency management scenario in Mandurah Request information on the stepby-step actions that would be required in a disaster situation. For example, evacuation measures, informing businesses of risk etc Undertake desktop scenario of potential climate change impacts on City of Mandurah and ensure outcomes of practice are incorporated into the disaster response plan Ensure that the disaster response plan is adaptively managed. Review plan annually to Sustainable Development ensure response options incorporate current climate change informationidentify alternative options should the existing building and infrastructure be impacted upon in order to maintain services and connectionsestablish a level of cost containment for clean up following major events for benchmarking purposesidentify major sources and locations of clean up expenses in CoM following major eventsidentify priority adaptations to mitigate clean up expense in balanced consideration of other risks Develop thresholds for unacceptable change in consultation with key stakeholders and the communityincorporate thresholds for Sustainable Development, unacceptable change into NRM plans and Works and Services strategiessee Policy and Planning Develop corridors for native vegetation along the coastal zone, and/or setbacks/greenbelts. PPD5 Increased pressure on disaster management and response resources NRM2 Increases in ecological disturbances; NRM3 Changes to wetlands due to sea level rise, shoreline erosion and saltwater intrusion; N RM4 Changes in distribution of invasive species due to changes in climate and associated loss of biodiversity; NRM5 Shifts in distributions of plant and animal species; NRM6 Increased risk of population and species extinctions; NRM8 Increased pressure on dunal systems. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 26

29 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Protect species/ecosystems through active management controls, as appropriate Investigate active management controls to reduce climate change impact on priority ecosystemsif thresholds are breached (See Coastal Monitoring Program), implement selected active management controls. Measures to strengthen trees, reduced risk of falling trees, branches increased 45 degree watering, external supports, lopping Sustainable Development, Works and Services NRM2 Increases in ecological disturbances; NRM3 Changes to wetlands due to sea level rise, shoreline erosion and saltwater intrusion; NRM6 Increased risk of population and species extinctions; NRM8 Increased pressure on dunal systems. Develop an integrated monitoring strategy to facilitate mainstreaming of adaptation measures across all local government functions (applies to existing and planned monitoring activities) As per ANRM3 Sustainable Development, Works and Services All risks Ensure quality and validity of information sources for decision making Review most recent climate change information at a regional and local scale as it becomes availablecommunicate state-of-knowledge regarding climate change and climate related risks across all local government departments Ensure that there is regular review of existing and potential technology that may increase information and aid decision-making. For Sustainable Development, All risks example, underground radar technology or Works and Services seismic techniques may be used to locate rock rather than exclusive-use of drilling.maintain open dialogue with relevant state/federal departments to ensure transferability/continuity of all pertinent information to be used in decision making process as it relates to climate change adaptation Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 27

30 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Disseminate information on implications of identified risks of climate change within City of Mandurah Coastal Zone to relevant authorities/agencies Communication with/education of rate payers on climate change risks and adaptation activities Present outcomes of the study to key stakeholders; ie WAPC/DPI, Utility providers and representatives from other Local Government AuthoritiesInitiate Regular Meetings/conference with key agencies to foster the creation of expertise (to enable council to undertake some of the required technical works) and to build relationships with other agencies to share information. The aim is to build local knowledge and expertise Sustainable Development All risks Review options to disseminate results of the current study to the community Develop information dissemination plan for the delivery of current study information to the communitycreate Community Awareness program envisioned as a 5 year plan. Information and awareness raising for: the outcomes of the current research (Phase I); the Sustainable Development, All risks importance of monitoring aiming for volunteer Works and Services support (Phase II); the outcomes of the management reviewliaise with identified stakeholders to discuss emergency response time trends and proposed benchmarking and control measuresreview any educational efforts underway or in preparation for inclusion of content on safe behaviour around stormwater Strengthen the profile of climate change within local government Disseminate climate change information throughout all local government areas within the City of Mandurah Establish communication channels between scientists and local government staffdecrease the silo nature of Sustainable Development All risks climate change management within the City of Mandurah through development of planning strategies that mainstream climate change adaptation across departments. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 28

31 ADAPTATION OPTION ASSOCIATED ACTION/S City of Mandurah Directorate RISKS TREATED THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION OF ADAPTATION OPTION Communicate with key service providers to For example, contact Watercorp requesting facilitate shared care approach to the information on the implications for council if management of the impacts of climate change their facilities are damaged - in particular the on key services within City of Mandurah sewerage line. Works and Services All risks Establish/strengthen relationships with community groups to facilitate monitoring activities, raise awareness and participate in adaptation strengthening activities For example, dialogue with Coastcare. There needs to be recognition from a Coastcare perspective that there will be increased pressure on providing stabilised dunes. Sustainable Development All risks Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 29

32 Table 5: Site-specific adaptation actions, by risk item ID Issue Adaptation 1a Erosion/inundation of Dunes (sand) along the open ocean coast and associated impacts on adjacent land use There are three primary options aligned to the treatment of risks associated with erosion of sandy dune areas on the open ocean coast at the site-specific scale: (i) monitoring and implementation of soft measures in a proactive manner; (ii) hard options, structural protection; (iii) retreat or relocation of at risk infrastructure. Details associated with these options are outlined below: Site Specific Proactive Soft Options Establish the current condition of the dunes relative to other areas throughout the coastal zone: review condition assessment conducted by Ecoscape, collate current information (2004-present), and identify hotspots in terms of variability. Collate and communicate information on all current management efforts at LG level what/where/when in terms of planting, brushing, access pathways and sand fencing. In addition, communicate with DPI to get details on current monitoring programs to establish where and when monitoring takes place. Based on this information, coordinate monitoring with DPI ie use same benchmarks, techniques etc to develop a complementary program of work that will allow realistic and timely (seasonal at minimum) inventories of dune sediment budgets to inform systematic, proactive nourishment in conjunction with complementary management activities in the future. This will be proactive to ensure adequate buffers available to absorb natural variability and increase first line of defence against sea level rise and associated climate change impacts. Increase community participation in the management of the area ties into communicate and consult option. Review the area and prioritise for focus of activities. Note that any management, planting, brushing, etc should occur in conjunction with a review of stabilisation options to ensure that management actions taken are sustainable. It is important to ensure that community activities are occurring in the correct areas and using suitable species to accommodate likely future changes in climate. Also, it is important to establish the overall effectiveness of current planting regimes in identified locations and review the strategies for monitoring, evaluation and integration with local government works Hard Options/ Relocation & Retreat Review the buffer widths in the area between shoreline and key infrastructure (ie road and private property) in conjunction with the outputs of the upcoming SPP 2.6 review. Existing buffers may be ok at the moment, but based on the outcomes of available information as it comes to light there may be a need to determine if the margins are still acceptable and if not take active management action to manage. Retreat or relocation options may only be established through consideration of each specific site under consideration. In many cases, the built nature of the Mandurah foreshore will rule out retreat. However, some areas in the channel and estuarine systems are backed by extensive reserve and should have emphasis placed on Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 30

33 1b Erosion/Inundation of Dunes (sand and rock) along open ocean coast and associated impacts on adjacent land use the need to retain this buffer, and if possible, increase it, to allow for the horizontal migration of land with rising sea levels. In instances where retreat and relocation are not an option and the integrity of the adjacent land use must be maintained it will be necessary to investigate site specific hard options. This will require further, high resolution investigations to establish cost-benefit associated with a range of potential options. Collate from the relevant agencies and concerned private agencies, relevant geotechnical information to establish details on the extent of rock in the area of concern. Review collated information to identify areas where there are gaps in existing information and identified hotpots. Then monitor to fill gaps. Then actions per 1a ie review existing active management plans (dune brushing exercises, fencing, brushing, pathways) and undertake dune resilience building measures; communicate with CoastCare and community groups to establish what activities are currently underway to focus actions on hotspot areas. 2 Erosion/Inundation of Rock walls Groynes and other coastal defences and associated infrastructure impacts (e.g. maintenance 3 Erosion/Inundation Roads and related impacts on emergency management and transport I Investigate the options to mitigate existing issues in conjunction with DPI shared coastal protection agreement. Within the estuary and channels, review the outcomes of the asset management condition assessment currently underway by CoM staff. Based on outcomes of the DPI structural protection review (if in the coastal zone) and the asset management review (if in estuary and channel) establish the extent of current monitoring, review placement of existing benchmarks, incorporate pertinent sites along the wall into monthly, seasonal, yearly coastal monitoring program. Assess and establish the effectiveness of the wall and investigate the specific issues associated with climate change projections Assess the importance of the road in question in terms of emergency transport routes and define alternate routes if available. Look at the condition of that road comparative to other transport routes. If seen as extreme priority based on current condition and service importance, develop management actions to increase resilience based on projections for climate change Actions to increase resilience should be based on the strategic adaptation options identified to treat risks to transport routes. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 31

34 4 Erosion/Inundation of coastal Utilities Infrastructure (excludes consideration of implications of impacts on public health and safety) 5 Erosion and inundation of leading to damage to infrastructure adjacent to the coastline Communicate the results of the RA to utility providers: write a letter to all key service providers requesting up-todate data on the location of coastal utilities. Hold a workshop to discuss shared care arrangements based on results of RA Develop plan to manage risks to these items in the future shared care approach to become more proactive. For example, combine activities and actions for monitoring in areas that are priorities for review, Have protocol to communicate with utilities provides to be proactive about structural asset management. Ie knowledge on location of older pipes, so that this information can be integrated into their disaster response planning. Review the outputs of the physical assessment based on detailed information on utilities in conjunction with service providers. Service providers responsible for the update and management of their asset management system. They should be advised to integrate climate change science into their asset management plans. Storm water drains where are they, what condition are they in, cleaned and maintained at start of winter period appropriate timing of maintenance Due to the responsibility of service providers role of the service provider to: Review and amend design specifications Where location of infrastructure is not flexible investigate standards of construction that reduce their sensitivity Identify alternate options should the existing infrastructure be impacted upon in order to mainstream services and connections. Review current asset management procedures and assess where this location/infrastructure is prioritised within the current asset management procedures Implement strategic adaptation options, but focused at the infrastructure identified as at risk in the compartment refer to details on location of at risk infrastructure in relevant compartment. In many cases, the site-specific infrastructure recommendations are dependant upon management actions taken to reduce risks to protective systems i.e. dunes and or structural protection (seawalls, groynes). Establish the current condition of infrastructure Communicate with DPI Incorporating into response and disaster plans etc Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 32

35 6 Erosion/inundation of wetlands and associated implications for plant and animal communities 7 Erosion/Inundation of Foreshore reserve and associated impacts on recreational amenity Best practice to protect the area is to determine the spatial extent of valuable species, would entail a review all existing information and highlight data gaps. Communicate with stakeholders for state government, local bird watching groups and other parties involved in the management of the Ramsar listed Peel-Yalgorup System. Establish the extent of local community groups and the actions that they are taken to manage the ecosystem under threat Review of existing information: vegetation surveys; habitat mapping detailed vegetation surveys, identify quenda demographics/ burrow mapping, ornithological (bird) mapping. Having collected and reviewed the information, a more detailed understanding of the priority issues that need to be managed would be gathered. Based on this information, establish a coordinated monitoring system see coastal monitoring recommendations for further information. If there are no options for retreat in the area, consider the relocation of flora and fauna, if deemed appropriate based on assessment of current condition relative to extent and diversity in other regions. Alternatively, if required, structural options may be considered. These can not be assigned to site-specific locations at this stage, as the information on which to base such recommendations is not currently available, i.e. thresholds for change, data on ecosystem distribution and diversity. Collate all existing information and Review the existing information/ data on foreshore condition and modes and levels of change. Identify any gaps relating to hotspot areas and where necessary instigate monitoring to address gaps and information Prioritise nourishment activities to provide buffer to impacts of elevation winter storm surges Review design specifications of the recreational structures to see if they can be (a) strengthened (b) flexible. Based on the outcomes of the review, prioritise soft and/or hard management actions (i) consider alternate locations for amenities (ii) soft options, nourishment (iii) hard options, protection. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 33

36 Table 6: Example site-specific adaptation plan, Compartment A11 Compartment A11 Location: Gretel Drive to Falcon Point Key Issues: Integrity of the retaining wall and the adjacent coastal road; Loss of foreshore. Assumptions: City of Mandurah and DPI are currently involved in site specific investigations for this area Summary of Recommendations: Pending outcomes of the Falcon Bay stabilisation review currently underway; specific focal points for management should be toilet block and car park, which are susceptible to inundation and erosion in their current condition and will be more susceptible/at risk under future climate conditions. Issue and Location Description H&E risk themes Options, Strategic Current Controls Strategic and Spatial Site Specific adaptations Infrastructure (recreational and coastal defence); low lying dunes and foreshore at Falcon Bay with low retaining wall Erosion scarp that is backed by the large northern carpark. Inundation occurs during storm events Rock wall and fencing, low elevation Progressive erosion and storm damage Erosion around Rakoa Street Slippage of sand around collapsing seawall. Destruction of access pathways NRM8 PPD2 IPS7 IPS2 ANRM1 ANRM2 ANRM3 ANRM4 APPD1 APPD4 APPD3 Active management program in place including local laws for specific management actions Beach nourishment as required DPI and LG have responsibility DPI coastal protection review Rock armour and sediment deposition is continuously placed here and eroded. Public access paths in this area have been closed due to the erosion issues Specific focal points should be toilet block, car park, which are susceptible to inundation and erosion in their current condition and will be more susceptible/at risk under future climate conditions. Review outcomes of the report currently under way by DPI/CoM to determine what actions would be taken to mitigate these impacts. Risk Assessment and Adaptation Summary Report Page 34