Franklin Lease Recovery Assessment: Review prepared for the Environment Protection Authority (EPA)

As a result of the substantial expansion of Beggiatoa bacteria and significant loss of fauna observed in September/October 2016 at the Franklin Lease (MF266), Tassal Pty Ltd were directed to destock the lease; this was completed by mid-April 2017. Tassal were also directed to complete a post-harvest survey in May 2017 to provide a reference with which to assess subsequent recovery. This was to be followed with two further surveys that would assess the extent and rate of recovery, and determine whether the sediments had recovered sufficiently to provide for the possibility of restocking; these additional surveys were conducted in January and April 2018. The Director, EPA has asked IMAS to review the post-harvest and post- fallow environmental reports submitted by Tassal, together with any relevant additional information collected by IMAS in Macquarie Harbour, and provide feedback focused on the following terms of reference.