Step 1—Selecting survey sitesStep 1—Selecting survey sites

Step 1—Selecting survey sites

(1) Select at least 3 benchmark survey sites outside the project area that satisfy the following: (a) subject to subsection (2)—the site is in the same eligible region as the activity area or sub-area and has a similar aspect and slope; (b) the site consists of mature remnant vegetation of at least 5 hectares that: (i) is from the reference ecosystem of the activity area or sub-area; and (ii) has a canopy layer that is at least 50 years old; (c) there is minimal evidence of disturbance to the remnant vegetation on the site, including from clearing, harvesting, disease, natural disturbances (such as fire or floods) or invasive species. (2) If the reference ecosystem of the activity area or sub-area was determined, in reliance on subsection 46(11), as being a native vegetation type that no longer occurs within the relevant eligible region, but does occur in an adjacent IBRA subregion—the 3 benchmark survey sites may be selected in that adjacent IBRA subregion.