Arc made the decision in mid-2024 to minimise the need for environmental clearing approvals by avoiding clearing of native vegetation (flora and or fauna habitat) for all business activities including maintenance, major projects and expansionary works.
To implement a new process the Environment team developed a new methodology for mapping Arc’s 5,500km network corridor, as well as a tool for creating a visualization of the finding which is easy for engineers and field-teams to follow.
As a pilot program Arc has completed a full Avoidance Mapping process for the area between Carnamah to Mingenew, which will be upgraded for the Agricultural Supply Chain Improvement Project Package 1 (ASCI).
Initially, the Environment teams create the map zones through a desktop review, primarily using aerial photography. On-ground assessments are then completed by a qualified botanist. Once the data is validated internally, it is inputted into the avoidance mapping tool. For ASCI Arc has been supported through this process with specialized external consultants to test and validate the proposed methodology.
By undertaking this process and inputting the colour-coded vegetation zones into Arc’s GIS, other teams can make quick assessments of areas around their worksites to determine their impact footprint. This streamlines processes, enabling infield teams to plan their work and lay down areas to avoid the need for clearing or disturbing native flora.
As a result of this process, clearing lay down areas required for equipment and materials for ASCI has been significantly more efficient. During November Track Engineers have been working with local teams to mark areas for clearing based on the colour-coded maps. Laydown areas were cleared by the end of 2025 and Arc has begun taking deliveries of ballast and sleepers throughout the start of 2026.
For more information about ASCI, click here:
projects - Arc Infrastructure
Back To News Stories