This article provides an overview of a report that can play a central role in the development application process.

What is a BDAR?

A Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (commonly referred to as a BDAR) is a comprehensive document required under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (the BC Act) that assesses the biodiversity impacts of proposed developments. The BDAR is essential for ensuring that the development complies with biodiversity conservation requirements and identifies measures to avoid, minimise, or offset these impacts.

The reports must include detailed assessments of threatened species, ecological communities, and their habitats, and calculate the necessary biodiversity offsets if the development impacts exceed the prescribed thresholds.

When is a BDAR Required?

A BDAR is required for a development application if the proposed development meets any of the following criteria:

1. Significant Impact on Threatened Species or Ecological Communities: The development is likely to significantly affect threatened species, ecological communities, or their habitats according to the test in section 7.3 of the Act (section 7.2(1)(a)).
2. Biodiversity Offsets Scheme Threshold: The development exceeds the biodiversity offsets scheme threshold if the biodiversity offsets scheme applies to the impacts of the development on biodiversity values. This threshold is defined in the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017 and includes criteria such as the area of clearing and the location of the development on land identified on the Biodiversity Values Map (section 7.4).
3. Declared Area of Outstanding Biodiversity Value: The development is carried out in a declared area of outstanding biodiversity value (section 7.2(1)(c)).

Who Can Prepare a BDAR?

A BDAR must be prepared by a person accredited under the BC Act (section 6.10) who is trained and certified to use the Biodiversity Assessment Method (referred to as the BAM). The BAM is a scientific method used to assess the biodiversity values of a site and the potential impacts of a development. Accredited assessors are responsible for ensuring that the BDAR meets the requirements set out in the Act and the accompanying regulations (section 6.8).

What are the usual steps in preparing a BDAR?

Preparing a BDAR involves a series of systematic steps to ensure a thorough evaluation of biodiversity impacts. Here’s a summary of the usual steps involved:

1. Initial Site Assessment
2. Engagement of Accredited Assessor
3. Field Surveys and Data Collection
4. Application of the BAM
5. Impact Assessment
6. Identification of Mitigation Measures
7. Calculation of Biodiversity Offsets
8. Preparation of the BDAR document

What is a common challenge with BDAR preparation?

One of the most significant challenges in BDAR preparation is the accurate identification and assessment of biodiversity values on a development site. Field surveys often need to cover large and ecologically diverse areas, requiring extensive time and resources. Weather conditions, seasonal variations, and the elusive nature of some species can further complicate data collection. Ensuring that the surveys capture a comprehensive picture of the site’s biodiversity is crucial, yet it is often difficult to guarantee completeness within the timeframes and budgets typically available for projects.

Further reading

The Biodiversity Conservation Act can be accessed by clicking here.