The Pipeline Fauna Refuge and Release System (FRRS)

摘要

A consequence of conventional pipeline construction is potential entrapment of fauna in open trenches. Effects of this can include mortality from exposure and entrapment related predation, exposure to personnel of venomous fauna, and potential breaches of policy and legislation. Traditional methods of removing fauna from pipeline trenches include using a hook and catch bag, grab-stick or noose to capture individual animals, sometimes in conjunction with sawdust filled bags. While partially effective, these methods can be time consuming and present elevated safety risks. This paper evaluates the performance of a newly developed Fauna Refuge and Release System (FRRS) designed to address these issues, when used in conjunction with trained and qualified fauna handlers. These methods were trialed on a Glass-fibre Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) oil trunkline installation in the Cooper Basin, South Australia, between April and June 2012. Capture techniques and mortality rates were compared between sections of trench with and without FRRS, the latter employing traditional catch and release methods. The FRRS was found to be a safe, efficient, and effective method for removal of fauna from trench lines. Reductions in fauna stress and mortality from both environmental and predation events were recorded, with a resultant increase in the diversity of fauna species recorded and released unharmed. A plan to implement the FRRS across the range of trenched pipeline projects is currently being assessed.