Apache Energy has commenced a suite of marine and terrestrial surveys in the area surrounding the proposed DCDP development. In 2007, flora and fauna surveys have been ongoing for the onshore project areas, whilst extensive marine surveys are planned for October and November 2007.

Vegetation and flora survey results to date indicate that no Declared Rare Flora, Protected Plant Taxa, Priority Flora Species or Threatened Ecological Communities are present in the Project areas.

The Fauna Survey of the project area concluded that 53 fauna of conservation significance could be present in the area. Of this number, 35 are bird species expected to use the intertidal area and adjacent mangroves at Forty Mile Beach. Preliminary sea turtle surveys suggest that there is little, if any, current use of the Forty Mile Beach for nesting, with the eastern end of the beach potentially being an historical location.

Previous biological surveys of the intertidal area in the vicinity of the pipeline launch area and boat ramp have described the area as limestone pavement with a sand veneer. Small, scattered coral species and macroalgae inhabit this area. This type of habitat is extensive within the region.

Background information on the natural environment will continue to be gathered and this will form the basis of detailed studies and analysis of the potential impacts to the environment from DCDP.