Stephen Fuller

Much of my work is related to developing ecological impact assessments for complex infrastructure projects such as wind farms, roading and transport, and urban growth projects. This requires expertise in designation and consent-focused assessments, quantifying and advising on mitigation and compensation requirements, involvement in council and community consultation, and assisting decision makers as an expert witness for consent hearings, the Environment Court and Board of Enquiry.

I specialise in the design and implementation of scientifically robust biological monitoring programmes as part of the assessment of effects, and to monitor ecological systems during and post-construction to confirm the outcomes of my assessments and the effectiveness of my recommended mitigation. For complex projects, this requires the coordination of large field teams and the management and analysis of large data sets.

I have extensive experience in conducting biological and ecological surveys for inventory purposes; mapping and describing vegetation, soils and freshwater systems; surveying avifauna, bats, terrestrial invertebrates and freshwater fish; preparing descriptions of natural values and threats; assessing ecological and biodiversity significance; and designing and developing practical management and mitigation strategies.

I enjoy the challenge of working collaboratively with planners, stormwater and civil engineers, landscape architects and urban designers to integrate community services, physical works, and public open space with the protection of significant natural areas, rare and threatened flora and fauna, the creation of conservation corridors, and sensitive treatment of stormwater.

Before joining Boffa Miskell, I was the general manager of the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary (now Zealandia). I continue to assist a range of non-profit community and conservation groups by reviewing reserve or restoration proposals; assessing biological, financial and operational feasibility; preparing management and business plans, and providing specialist advice on governance and tenure issues, public consultation, statutory requirements, and pest management.

Qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Terrestrial Ecology), Victoria University
Diploma of Applied Science (Botany, Pedology), Victoria University

Affiliations
Certified Environmental Practitioner (General Practitioner), Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ)
Fellow, Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand (FEIANZ)
Member, Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand
Member, New Zealand Ecological Society
Member, New Zealand Botanical Society