RERI is a program that supports the environmentally responsible development of renewable energy projects, while helping to protect Australia’s unique biodiversity. By funding targeted research, the initiative aims to answer important ecological questions, improve environmental assessments, and provide practical guidance that helps balance renewable energy development with conservation outcomes.

As part of this initiative, North Barker was invited by the University of Tasmania to contribute to the RERI project Species Research and Guidance: Tasmanian Birds. The project focuses on improving our understanding of two threatened species—the Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle and the Tasmanian Masked Owl—which may be affected by renewable energy developments. By investigating how these birds move through the landscape, including how often they enter wind turbine rotor-swept zones and what influences their flight behaviour, the research will help produce practical guidance to support more effective environmental assessments and better-informed planning decisions.

One of North Barker’s key contributions has been helping to investigate a challenge familiar to many field ecologists: how accurately can observers estimate the height and distance of birds in flight? These estimates underpin many collision risk assessments for wind farms, yet they rely heavily on the judgement and experience of individual observers. Understanding and reducing observer bias is therefore an important step towards improving the quality and consistency of ecological data.

To explore this, around a dozen North Barker staff travelled to the central highlands for a unique field experiment designed to test observer accuracy. Working as a team, participants took part in a blind calibration exercise where they looked away while a drone pilot positioned a drone at a random height and distance. Once the drone was in place, observers located it and independently estimated its height above the ground and its distance from their position. Because the drone’s true location was known, researchers could compare each estimate against the actual values and assess both accuracy and consistency across observers.

The data are currently being analysed, but the early findings are promising. Initial results suggest that observer calibration exercises can substantially reduce estimation error, improving the consistency and reliability of field observations. If these findings are confirmed, they could help establish calibration as a simple but valuable component of bird survey programs, ultimately strengthening the evidence used to assess potential impacts of renewable energy developments on threatened species. This is consistent with our recommended approach on recent utilisation surveys, in which we incorporate seasonal calibration exercises for field teams to hone their skills on target species and in representative conditions prior to formal surveys. Having our survey data accurately represent real world conditions and risks to species is a vital part of what we strive for, and we are excited to keep advancing this space.

North Barker is proud to be contributing to research that not only advances ecological science but also helps ensure Australia’s renewable energy future is built on robust, evidence-based environmental assessments.

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Dr. Josephine Potter-Craven from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania kicked off the event with an insightful talk on Tasmania’s threatened butterflies. She covered their habitats, ecology, identification techniques, and the threats they face, emphasising the importance of survey methods for monitoring these delicate invertebrates. Attendees gained valuable knowledge on how to identify and support various threatened species including the ptunarra brown butterfly.

Rob Freeman from Inland Fisheries Tasmania followed with a presentation on Tasmania’s freshwater fish diversity. He provided information on various species, their conservation statuses, and the challenges they encounter. His session also provided practical information on surveying freshwater fish, highlighting the importance of habitat identification and the need for targeted strategies for mitigation and management.

Dr. Peter McQuillan from the University of Tasmania concluded the presentations with an overview of Tasmania’s threatened moth species. He discussed identification techniques, habitat preferences, and survey methods, shedding light on an often-overlooked group of species vital to the island’s biodiversity.

The event facilitated lively discussions and questions, creating an opportunity for staff to refresh and expand their knowledge of Tasmania’s threatened fauna and the latest surveying techniques for several species.

At North Barker, we hold regular training forums (previously on aquatic fauna, ferns, sedges, collision risk modelling, planning laws, masked owls, and the green-lined ground beetle) to ensure our team stays equipped with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge, enabling us to deliver the highest level of expert services and advice to our clients.

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With several Tasmanian ferns listed as threatened under state and federal legislation, accurate identification and field detection are essential for detailed natural values assessment, informing sound environmental management decisions, and ensuring our client’s compliance with environmental legislation.

Led by expert botanists Michael Garrett and Mark Wapstra, the workshop combined classroom and field learning. We began with hands-on practice using pressed specimens and identification keys, refining our techniques to confidently distinguish between species. This meticulous process allowed our team to understand the subtle differences in frond structure, spore arrangement patterns, and other features critical to correct identification.

The second part of the workshop took us into the hills of the central east coast, where we explored rocky outcrops, wet gullies and dry forests, applying our new skills in situ. This immersive approach reinforced the importance of recognising and protecting Tasmania’s fern species, particularly those under threat.

By continuing to invest in specialised internal and external training, North Barker is committed to maintaining the highest standard of ecological expertise. Workshops like this ensure our team remains skilled, informed, and ready to contribute to the protection of Tasmania’s remarkable natural heritage (as well as providing an opportunity for the team to express their Pteridomania).

North Barker would like to extend a special thanks to Mike Garrett and Mark Wapstra for generously sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm, which made this botanical training workshop both informative and inspiring.

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