What is a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR)?

A Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) is a comprehensive technical document required under New South Wales (NSW) regulations, specifically under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017. It is prepared by an Accredited Biodiversity Assessor consultant to assess and manage the impacts of proposed developments on native vegetation and threatened species.
Here are the key components and purposes of a BDAR:

1. Assessment of Local Ecology

Site surveys are conducted strictly following the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM). Site-specific data is then compared to published information to gain a broad but comprehensive understanding of the local ecology and environment. The BDAR then identifies how a proposed development may affect native vegetation and threatened species within the project area.

2. Avoidance, Minimisation, and Offset Strategies

It outlines strategies to avoid or minimise impacts on biodiversity. If impacts cannot be avoided or minimised sufficiently, the BDAR proposes offset measures to compensate for biodiversity loss caused by the development.

3. Compliance with Regulations

The report ensures compliance with the NSW Biodiversity Offset Scheme (BOS). This includes calculating the number and type of Biodiversity Offset Credits required to offset the development's impacts.

4. Methodology and Assessment

BDARs are prepared using the NSW Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM), which involves site assessments, vegetation surveys (using tools like Plant Community Type and Vegetation Integrity Survey Plots), and fauna surveys to determine biodiversity values and impacts.

5. Submission and Approval

BDARs are submitted as part of the Development Application (DA) process to local councils or authorities. They must demonstrate how the proposed development meets biodiversity conservation requirements set out in NSW legislation.

The McIvor Environmental consultants are experts in preparing BDARs. Our consultants will assist proponents in navigating regulatory requirements. We will conduct all necessary surveys, and where applicable, can advise on offset feasibility to ensure compliance and project approval.