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Biodiversity Management Plan

for the

Dargues Gold Mine


for the

Dargues Gold Mine

Diversified Minerals Pty Ltd

ABN: 22 603 135 584

Level 10, 56 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000

Telephone: (02) 8272 4100

Email: [email protected]

Big Island Mining Limited

ABN: 12 112 787 470

Level 10, 56 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000

Telephone: 1800 732 002

Email: [email protected]

This Copyright is included for the protection of this document

COPYRIGHT

© Diversified Minerals 2016

and

© Big Island Mining Limited 2016

All intellectual property and copyright reserved.

Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Copyright

Act, 1968, no part of this report may be reproduced, transmitted, stored in a retrieval system or adapted in any form or by any

means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without written permission. Enquiries should be addressed

to Diversified Minerals Pty Ltd.

mailto:[email protected]


Document Title Biodiversity Management Plan

Document Number DGM-040508-BioMP

Document Owner HSEC Superintendent

Revision Company Date Originator Reviewed Approved

Original

Revision 1 R.W. Corkery 5/03/2012 Mitchell Bland Mitchell Bland AJ Saverimutto

Revision 2 R.W. Corkery 9/05/2012 Mitchell Bland

Revision 3 Unity Mining 23/06/2014 James Dornan

Revision 4 Diversified Minerals 17/02/2017 James Dornan Mitchell Bland DPE

Next Review Due Within 3 months of:

the submission of an annual review under Condition 5(3);

the submission of an incident report under Condition 5(6);

the submission of an audit report under Condition 5(8); and

any modification to the conditions of MP10_0054.


Document No. DGM-040508-BioMP

BIG ISLAND MINING LIMITED

Dargues Gold Mine

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CONTENTS

Page

1. INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 1

2. CONSULTATION........................................................................................................................ 2

3. LEGAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................... 3

4. OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES ................................................................................................ 8

5. PHREATOPHYTIC VEGETATION MANAGEMENT .................................................................... 9

5.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................... 9

5.2 ANTICIPATED GROUNDWATER IMPACTS ..................................................................... 9

5.2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 9

5.2.2 Surrounding Groundwater Environment ................................................................. 10

5.2.3 Anticipated On-site Groundwater Impacts .............................................................. 10

5.2.4 Anticipated Off-site Groundwater Impacts .............................................................. 11

5.3 ANTICIPATED IMPACTS ON PHREATOPHYTIC VEGETATION .................................... 13

5.3.1 Anticipated Impacts on Tableland Basalt Forest EEC ............................................. 13

5.3.2 Anticipated Impacts on Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC .................................... 17

5.4 PHREATOPHYTIC VEGETATION MONITORING PROGRAM ........................................ 18

5.5 OFF-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY ............................................................ 20

6. MANAGEMENT OF THE ON-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET AREA ........................................ 20

6.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 20

6.2 OVERVIEW OF THE ON-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY ............................ 20

6.3 SECURING THE ON-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY .................................. 22

6.4 MANAGEMENT MEASURES .......................................................................................... 22

6.4.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 22

6.4.2 Management of Erosion and Gully Development.................................................... 22

6.4.3 Management of Weeds and Pests ......................................................................... 23

6.4.4 Management of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC ........................................................ 24

6.4.5 Management of the Native-dominated Pasture ...................................................... 27

7. BIODIVERSITY OFFSET MONITORING, COMPLETION CRITERIA AND TIMING .................. 29

7.1 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET MONITORING PROGRAM ...................................................... 29

7.1.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 29

7.1.2 Vegetation Monitoring Program ............................................................................. 29

7.1.3 Fauna Monitoring Program .................................................................................... 30

7.1.4 Aquatic Ecology and Monitoring Program .............................................................. 31

7.1.5 Stygofauna Monitoring Program ............................................................................ 31


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7.2 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET PERFORMANCE AND COMPLETION CRITERIA ................... 31

7.3 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET TIMING AND IMPLEMENTATION ........................................... 31

8. MANAGEMENT OF REMAINING SECTIONS OF THE PROJECT SITE ................................... 35

8.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 35

8.2 FINAL LANDFORM AND LAND USE .............................................................................. 35

8.3 MANAGEMENT MEASURES .......................................................................................... 36

8.3.1 Management of Erosion and Gullying .................................................................... 36

8.3.2 Management of Weeds and Pests ......................................................................... 36

8.3.3 Management of Regenerating Wattles ................................................................... 36

8.3.4 Management Disturbed and Cleared Land ............................................................. 36

9. MANAGEMENT OF WOMBATS ............................................................................................... 37

10. MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF COMPLIANCE ............................................................ 37

11. COMPLAINTS HANDLING AND RESPONSE .......................................................................... 38

12. PUBLICATION OF MONITORING INFORMATION................................................................... 39

13. INCIDENT REPORTING ........................................................................................................... 39

14. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITY ............................................................................................... 40

15. COMPETENCE TRAINING AND AWARENESS ....................................................................... 40

16. REVIEW ................................................................................................................................... 40

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................... 42

FIGURES

Figure 1 Simulated Piezometric Drawdown – End of Mining ................................................................ 12

Figure 2 On-Site Biodiversity Area ...................................................................................................... 15

TABLES

Table 1 Relevant Biodiversity-related Conditions – MP10_0054 ............................................................ 3

Table 2 Project Approval Requirements ................................................................................................ 4

Table 3 Statement of Commitment Requirements ................................................................................. 5

Table 4 Objectives and Key Performance Outcomes ............................................................................. 8

Table 5 Vegetation Communities within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area ....................................... 21

Table 6 Biodiversity Offset Performance and Completion Criteria ........................................................ 32

Table 7 Timing for Implementation of Biodiversity Management Measures .......................................... 34




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1. I N T R O D U C T I O N

This Biodiversity Management Plan for the Dargues Gold Mine (the Project) was originally coordinated by RW Corkery & Co Pty Limited on behalf of Big Island Mining Pty Ltd (the Company). This management plan is now updated and maintained by the Company. This version of the plan is Revision 4 and has been prepared by the Company and reviewed by R.W. Corkery and Co. (RWC).

The Project Site is located approximately 60km southeast of Canberra, 13km south of Braidwood and immediately north of the village of Majors Creek. The Project consists of an underground gold mine, a run-of-mine (ROM) pad, temporary waste rock emplacement, processing plant, tailings storage facility and associated infrastructure and ancillary activities.

This document has been prepared in satisfaction of Condition 3(35) of Modified Project Approval MP10_0054 MOD3.

A range of specialist consultants have contributed to the preparation of this document or provided reports which form the basis of sections of this document. Relevant specialists, their area of expertise and the principal sections they contributed to are as follows.

Mr Alec Downey of ICT International (Section 5).

Mr Garry Daly of Gaia Research Pty Ltd (Sections 6, 7 and 8).

Mr Greg Stone of Woodlands Environmental Management (Sections 5, 6, 7 and 8).

Dr Steve Douglas of Ecological Surveys and Planning (Sections 5, 6, 7 and 8).

Mr Steve Sass of Envirokey (Section 6, 7 and 8).

Mr Bill Waterhouse (Majors Creek resident and wombat expert) (Section 9).

The Project is fully described in the following documents and no further background information is provided in this document.

Environmental Assessment dated September 2010 and associated documentation

prepared to support the application for Project approval.

Mining Operations Plan dated July 2014.

Environmental Assessment – Modification 1 dated April 2012.

Response to Government Agency and Public Submissions for the Dargues Reef Gold

Project - Modification 1 dated June 2012.

Environmental Assessment – Modification 2 dated July 2013.

Response to Government Agency and Public Submissions for the Dargues Reef Gold

Project - Modification 2 dated September 2013.

Environmental Assessment – Modification 3 dated August 2016.


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Response to Government Agency and Public Submissions for the Dargues Gold

Mine - Modification 3 dated November 2015.

In addition, a range of management plans have been prepared to guide operations within the Project Site. These include the following.

Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan

Aboriginal Heritage Management Plan.

Blast Management Plan.

Bushfire Management Plan.

Environmental Management Strategy.

Noise Management Plan.

Traffic Management Plan.

Water Management Plan.

Waste Management Plan.

2. C O N S U LTAT I O N

The following consultation was undertaken during preparation of this document.

An email requesting requirements for the Biodiversity Management Plan was

provided to the Office of Environment and Heritage on 8 September 2011. No

response was received

A draft copy of Revision 2 of this document was provided to Office of Environment

and Heritage for review and comment on 5 March 2012. Feedback was received

on 5 April 2012 and was taken into consideration during finalisation of Revision 2.

A draft copy of Revision 3 of this document was provided to Office of Environment

and Heritage for review and comment on 21 January 2014. Feedback was received

on 14 February 2014. In addition, the Company met with the Office of

Environment and Heritage on 19 February 2014 to discuss their feedback. The

written and verbal feedback was taken into consideration during finalisation of

Revision 3.

A draft copy of Revision 4 of this document was provided to the Office of

Environment and Heritage on 9 November 2016 following the determination of

Modification 3. A response was received on 20 January 2017, along with

comments from the Department of Planning and Environment (the DPE).




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3. L E G A L A N D O T H E R R E Q U I R E M E N T S

The Project received project approval (PA10_0054) on 2 September 2011 pursuant to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). Following two appeals to the Land and Environment Court, the Court subsequently granted project approval on 7 February 2012. Modification 1 for the use of paste fill at the Project Site was subsequently approved by the Director-General of the Department of Planning and Infrastructure on 12 July 2012 (MP10_0054 MOD1). Modification 2 to regularise changes to the layout of the project was subsequently approved on 24 October 2013. Modification 3 for construction of a waste rock emplacement and a crossing over Spring Creek, as well as an extension of the mine life and increase in the resource to be extracted was subsequently approved by the Planning Assessment Commission on 10 August 2016.

The Project Approval stipulates the required criteria that the construction and operational activities of the Project must comply with and sets out the core requirements of this Management Plan. Relevant biodiversity-related conditions associated with this approval are reproduced in Table 1.

Table 1 Relevant Biodiversity-related Conditions – MP10_0054

Biodiversity Offset

3(32) The Proponent shall implement the offset strategy outlined in Table 9, described in the EA, and shown in Appendix 4 to the satisfaction of the Secretary. Table 9: Biodiversity Offset

Community Type Area (ha)

Ribbon Gum Forest* 8.7

Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest* 7.1

Regenerating wattles 7.6

Exotic vegetation 5.1

Natural Temperate Grassland** 0.2

Native – dominated pasture 265.7

Exotic pasture 2.5

Largely disturbed land 3.9

River Peppermint Open Forest 1.3

TOTAL 302.1

* Listed as an EEC under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 ** Listed as a CEEC under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999

3(33) The Proponent shall ensure that the offset area is managed in a manner that would ensure the regeneration of native grassland, which is consistent with the Natural Temperate Grassland EEC.

3(34) The Proponent shall make suitable arrangements to provide appropriate long-term security for the offset area in the strategy to the satisfaction of the Secretary.


3(35) The Proponent shall prepare a Biodiversity Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Secretary. This plan must: (a) be prepared in consultation with OEH, and submitted to the Secretary for approval prior to

construction; (b) include:

an assessment of the potential impacts of groundwater drawdown on groundwater dependent (phreatophytic) vegetation, including the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC and Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC in the Majors Creek State Conservation Area using suitable methodology;

detailed baseline data on the health status of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the project site;

mitigation and/or offsetting measures if adverse impacts on phreatophytic vegetation are predicted;


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timing for the implementation of mitigation and/or offsetting measures;

scheduling for the implementation of the biodiversity offset;

detailed performance and completion criteria for the implementation of the biodiversity offset;

a detailed description of the measures that would be implemented to manage the remnant vegetation and habitat within the offset area, and ensure the biodiversity offset is suitably implemented, including the procedures for:

revegetating or regenerating parts of the offset area, if required;

managing or improving the quality of existing vegetation in the offset area;

controlling weeds, feral pests and access;

managing bushfires; and

details of who would be responsible for monitoring, reviewing and implementing the plan.

Conservation Bond

3(36) Within 3 months of the approval of the Biodiversity Management Plan, the Proponent shall lodge a conservation bond with the Department to ensure that the biodiversity offset is implemented in accordance with the performance and completion criteria of the Biodiversity Management Plan. The sum of the bond shall cover the full cost of implementing the Biodiversity Offset Strategy and be verified by a suitably qualified rehabilitation expert or quantity surveyor.

If the biodiversity offset is implemented to the satisfaction of the Secretary, the Secretary will release the conservation bond.

If the offset strategy is not implemented to the satisfaction of the Secretary, the Secretary will call in all or part of the conservation bond, and arrange for the satisfactory implementation of the biodiversity offset.

Table 2 presents the requirements arising from the conditional requirements of MP10_0054 for this Biodiversity Management Plan and where each is addressed in this document. In addition, Table 3 identifies the requirements for this Plan embodied in the Statement of Commitments presented as Appendix 5 of MP10_0054.

Table 2 Project Approval Requirements

Requirement Section


Condition 3(35)

The Proponent shall prepare a Biodiversity Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Secretary. This plan must:

(a) be prepared in consultation with OEH, and submitted to the Secretary for approval prior to construction;

2

(b) include:

an assessment of the potential impacts of groundwater drawdown on groundwater dependent (phreatophytic) vegetation, including the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC and Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC in the Majors Creek State Conservation Area using suitable methodology;

5.3

detailed baseline data on the health status of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the project site;

5.3.1.1

mitigation and/or offsetting measures if adverse impacts on phreatophytic vegetation are predicted;

5.4

timing for the implementation of mitigation and/or offsetting measures; 7.3

scheduling for the implementation of the biodiversity offset; 7.3

detailed performance and completion criteria for the implementation of the biodiversity offset;

7.2




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Requirement Section

a detailed description of the measures that would be implemented to manage the remnant vegetation and habitat within the offset area, and ensure the biodiversity offset is suitably implemented, including the procedures for:

6 revegetating or regenerating parts of the offset area, if required;

managing or improving the quality of existing vegetation in the offset area;

controlling weeds, feral pests and access;

managing bushfires; and

details of who would be responsible for monitoring, reviewing and implementing the plan.

14

Condition 5(2)

The Proponent shall ensure that the management plans required under this approval are prepared in accordance with any relevant guidelines, and include:

(a) detailed baseline data; 5.2, 5.3.1.1

(b) a description of:

the relevant statutory requirements (including any relevant approval, licence or lease conditions);

3

any relevant limits or performance measures/criteria; 7.2

(c) a description of the measures that would be implemented to comply with the relevant statutory requirements, limits, or performance measures/criteria;

5, 6 & 7

(d) a program to monitor and report on the:

5.3, 7.1 impacts and environmental performance of the project;

effectiveness of any management measures (see c above);

(e) a contingency plan to manage any unpredicted impacts and their consequences; 5.4

(f) a program to investigate and implement ways to improve the environmental performance of the project over time;

16

(g) a protocol for managing and reporting any:

11, 13

incidents;

complaints;

non-compliances with statutory requirements; and

exceedances of the impact assessment criteria and/or performance criteria; and

(h) a protocol for periodic review of the plan. 16

Note: The Secretary may waive some of these requirements if they are unnecessary or unwarranted for particular management plans.

Table 3 Statement of Commitment Requirements

Requirement Section

5 ECOLOGY

5.1 Ensure that no ground disturbing activities are undertaken within areas of identified Ribbon Gum Forest and Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest.

6.4.4.3

5.1a Implement reasonable and feasible measures to ensure that fauna, including birds, do not enter the Tailings Storage Facility and monitor the facility for such use.

6.4.4.7


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Requirement Section

5.1b Conduct annual late winter surveys for the presence of active Little Eagle nests within the project site for the life of the Project. In the event that one or more nests are identified, prepare and implement an appropriate management plan in consultation with OEH.

7.1.3

5.2 Avoid the use of phosphate-based fertiliser in pasture areas to encourage the regeneration of native grasses.

6.4.5.2

5.3 Manage grazing operations, including stocking rates and fencing, in a manner to sustain and facilitate the spread of native grass species.

6.4.5.2

5.4 Fence all areas of Ribbon Gum Forest and Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest to exclude stock.

6.4.4.2

5.4a Manage all areas of Ribbon Gum Forest and Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest to maintain to improve biodiversity values.

6.4.4

5.5 Ensure that areas of habitat suitable for the Majors Creek Leek Orchid are appropriately identified and fenced with a 20m buffer and access restricted. Ensure no disturbance occurs within the fenced areas.

6.4.4.5

5.6 Prepare a management plan to ensure that Common Wombat are not harmed during establishment of the tailings storage facility. This plan may include the following.

9

Mark all wombat burrows prior to the commencement of ground disturbing activities.

Commence ground disturbing activities on the upper slopes of creek banks a few days before disturbing the identified hollows to allow individual wombats time to

vacate their burrows at night when equipment is not operating.

Inspect all burrows to ensure that common wombats have vacated the proposed area of disturbance.

Any remaining wombats would be relocated in consultation with a suitably qualified and experienced wildlife carer, fauna ecologist and/or local wombat expert.

5.8 Ensure that dead fallen and standing timber are not removed or disturbed to preserve fauna habitat.

6.4.4.4

5.9a Identify and implement an offsite biodiversity strategy that would:

7

ensure the protection and enhancement of a minimum of 35.5ha of Tableland Basalt Forest in similar condition to that community within the project site;

include a Biodiversity Offset Area within the vicinity of the project site but outside the area of predicted groundwater drawdown;

be implemented in perpetuity; and

be described in the Biodiversity Management Plan for the project, as amended. Alternatively, ensure that funding to an equivalent amount that would have been

required under the abovementioned offsite Biodiversity Offset Strategy is made available in perpetuity for the management of Tableland Basalt Forest matters in the vicinity of the project site.

5.9b Extend the offset strategy to be implemented under conditions 32 and 33 in schedule 3 of the Project Approval as follows:

6.2

the extended biodiversity offset area will be as described in the following table and as shown in Appendix 8;

those portions of the approved Biodiversity Areas identified in Appendices 4 and 8 (Combined Biodiversity Offset Area) as either Ribbon Gum Forest or Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest, or any area within the Combined Biodiversity Offset Area where it is appropriate to re-establish the Endangered Ecological Community Tableland Basalt Forest, will be managed in a manner that would ensure the regeneration of that community; and

the remainder of the Combined Biodiversity Offset Area, where appropriate, will be managed in a manner that would ensure the regeneration of native grassland which is consistent with the Natural Temperate Grassland EEC.

Table: Extended Biodiversity Offset Area

Community Type Area (ha)

Ribbon Gum Forest* 17.8 ha 6.2




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Requirement Section

Woody Weeds Shrubland 2.3 ha

Native – dominated pasture 8 ha

TOTAL 28.1

* Listed as an EEC under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995

5.10 Prepare a Biodiversity Management Plan in consultation with the relevant government agencies and the community consultative committee. That plan would:

specify biodiversity-related actions to be undertaken during the life of the Project and for several years after the site has been decommissioned;

6

incorporate the above commitments;

include a program to determine the condition of Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC adjacent to Majors Creek within the Majors Creek State Conservation Area, including ongoing monitoring:

5.3.2

include a program to identify any groundwater dependent (phreatophytic) vegetation within and outside the zone of groundwater drawdown, including an assessment of soil moisture;

5

specify that the required monitoring of phreatophytic vegetation should include pre-dawn measurement of water potential and transpiration by means of porometry at a series of measurement sites across the drawdown cone (not limited to the project site, but at 2 metres at the outermost). Monitoring to include monitoring of bore depth and rainfall, at least 4 times a year in August, November, January and March;

5.3.3

include a program to identify and monitor stygofauna within and surrounding the project site, including a program to collate onsite baseline data utilising the existing groundwater monitoring network;

7.1.4 and 7.1.5

describe management of the proposed biodiversity area(s); 6 and 7

require the collection, appropriate storage and recording of native seed within the project site to supply amelioration and rehabilitation activities;

6.4.4.4

describe the proposed revegetation and amelioration program, including identification of areas to be revegetated/ameliorated and the species to be used; and

6.4.4.4

involve, where practicable, local community groups in management of biodiversity with in the Project Site.

6.4.1

5.11 Construct the proposed water pipelines in a manner that would not disturb any Ribbon Gum Forest nor any vegetation over 3m height.

6.4.4.3

5.13 Ensure that all in-ground infrastructure in the vicinity of living native trees that comprise a component of the Ribbon Gum Forest of Fragmented Ribbon Gum Forest are installed in accordance with AS4970-2009 – Protection of Trees on Development Sites. In particular, ensure that such infrastructure is installed outside any Tree Protection Zone established by the standard.

6.4.4.8


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4. O B J E C T I V E S A N D O U T C O M E S

Table 4 presents the objectives and key performance outcomes for this Biodiversity Management Plan and the Project.

Table 4 Objectives and Key Performance Outcomes

OBJECTIVES KEY PERFORMANCE OUTCOMES

Biodiversity

(a) To ensure compliance with all relevant Project approval conditions, statements of commitment and reasonable community expectations.

(i) Compliance with all relevant criteria and reasonable community expectations, as determined in consultation with the relevant government agencies.

(b) To implement appropriate biodiversity management and mitigation measures during all stages of the Project

(ii) All identified biodiversity management and mitigation measures implemented.

(c) To appropriately determine the degree of groundwater dependence of vegetation within the Project Site and determine the nature and significance of adverse Project-related impacts, if any.

(iii) Degree of groundwater dependence determined and appropriate ongoing monitoring program implemented

(d) To appropriately manage and offset Project-related adverse impacts, if any, on phreatophytic vegetation within the Project Site.

(iv) Off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy identified and implemented with the identified timeframes

(e) To appropriately implement and manage the approved On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy.

(v) On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy identified and implemented with the identified timeframes

(f) To appropriately manage those sections of the Project Site not within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area to achieve the approved final landform and land use.

(vi) Identified areas managed in a manner that does not result in off-site impacts and ensures that the identified final landform and land use is established.

(g) To implement an appropriate complaints handling and response protocol

(vii) Complaints (if any) handled and responded to in an appropriate manner.

(h) To implement appropriate corrective and preventative actions, if required.

(viii) Corrective and preventative actions implemented, if required

(i) To implement an appropriate incident reporting program, if required.

(ix) Incidents (if any) reported in an appropriate manner.




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5. P H R E AT O P H Y T I C V E G E TAT I O N M A N A G E M E N T

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Phreatophytic vegetation obtains a significant portion of its water requirements from the phreatic zone of the soil profile, i.e. the zone of groundwater saturation, or from the capillary zone immediately above the saturated groundwater zone. As a result, phreatophytic vegetation is typically found adjacent to water courses and in areas where groundwater is very close to the surface. Alternatively, phreatophytic vegetation may access groundwater at greater depths where it is able to penetrate sufficiently deeply, namely where the soil and underlying substrate are sufficiently friable, and where climatic conditions encourage root development, principally where extended periods without significant rainfall occur such as in Mediterranean or arid climates.

Within the Project Site, the only vegetation with the potential to be classified as phreatophytic vegetation is:

some of the Eucalypts associated with the Ribbon Gum Forest which may be

classified as Tableland Basalt Forest Endangered Ecological Community (Tableland

Basalt Forest EEC); and

some of the native understorey and in-stream vegetation associated with and in

the immediate vicinity of spring-fed watercourses.

On the Araluen Escarpment, downslope and east of the Project Site, the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest Endangered Ecological Community (Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC) is known to occur. It was suggested by the Appellants to the project appeal that this community may be in part phreatophytic. However, there is no information available to confirm or reject that view. In addition, Dr Steve Douglas notes in his expert report prepared for the appeal to the project approval that the community is beyond the scope of the Project’s direct groundwater-related impacts and that surface water flows would be unaffected by the Project due to the use of a surface water flow compensation scheme.

This sub-section provides an assessment of the potential impacts to each of these communities as a result of groundwater drawdown associated with the Project and a program for the ongoing monitoring of the communities for actual impacts as the groundwater surrounding the approved mine is lowered. This sub-section has been prepared with input from Dr Steve Douglas and Mr Greg Stone, both of whom contributed to the ecological assessment for the Project and more recently Mr Alec Downey.

5.2 ANTICIPATED GROUNDWATER IMPACTS

5.2.1 Introduction

Section 4.4 of the Environmental Assessment and Part 3 of the Specialist Consultant Studies Compendium, prepared by Australasian Groundwater and Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd (AGE), provide a full description of the groundwater environment within and surrounding the Project Site and the anticipated Project-related groundwater impacts. That report is referred to as AGE (2010).

Subsequently, AGE undertook two reviews of their original groundwater assessment as follows.


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AGE (2012) – that assessment took into account the proposed backfilling of

completed stopes using a combination of paste fill and waste rock that was the

subject of MOD1.

AGE (2013) - that assessment was prepared in accordance with Commitment 6.4e

of Appendix 5 of MP10_0054. AGE (2013) is presented as Appendix 10 of the

MOD3 EA

This sub-section provides an overview of the information presented in those reports to enable the assessment of anticipated impacts to phreatophytic vegetation presented in Section 5.3 to be placed in context.

5.2.2 Surrounding Groundwater Environment

Three classes of aquifers exist within and surrounding the Project Site as follows. Figure 4.21 of the 2010 Environmental Assessment provides a schematic representation of the interrelationship of these aquifers.

Fracture-controlled, granodiorite-hosted aquifer. A hydraulically “tight” massive

granodiorite with little or no primary permeability and localised fracture or fault

systems which may be open and transmit groundwater flow. This aquifer occurs

across the entire Project Site and surrounding catchments.

A regolith aquifer (a shallow, weathered aquifer overlying the granodiorite). This

aquifer is hosted by weathered granodiorite material which typically occurs to a

depth of approximately 15m.

A shallow alluvial aquifer (associated with the Majors Creek alluvial deposits). This

aquifer is comprised of sand and clay with boulders adjacent to and within Majors

Creek.

In addition, Figure 7 of AGE (2013) presents a plan showing the upper surface of the groundwater table. In summary, except in close proximity to Spring and Major’s Creeks and their tributaries, the groundwater table within the Project Site is between 8m and 15m below the surface.

Drainage lines within the northern section of the Project Site where the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC occurs are typically deeply incised, with slope gradients increasing in mid and lower-slope areas (i.e. convex slopes).

Groundwater discharges to surface at a spring in the upper reaches of Spring Creek, with measured base flows of approximately 0.3L/s.

5.2.3 Anticipated On-site Groundwater Impacts

The groundwater assessment determined that the Project would result in the following groundwater-related impacts.

Drawdown of groundwater in the vicinity of the approved mine. Figure 1 presents

the anticipated zone of groundwater drawdown. In summary, the anticipated zone

of drawdown as defined by the 1m drawdown contour is expected to extend up




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to approximately 2.5km from the approved mine, including all areas of Tableland

Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site.

As a result of the anticipated drawdown of groundwater levels within the Project

Site, the groundwater assessment determined that groundwater discharge to

Spring Creek would cease completely, resulting in a loss of approximately 0.3L/s.

The reduction in baseflow to Spring and Majors Creeks is expected to increase

during the life of the Project to a maximum of approximately 2.5L/s. The Water

Management Plan provides an overview of the approved compensatory flow

program that would compensate for this loss of baseflow.

Following completion of mining operations, the groundwater assessment

determined that groundwater levels would fully recover within ten years of the

completion of mining operations.

5.2.4 Anticipated Off-site Groundwater Impacts

As indicated on Figure 1, direct groundwater-related impacts associated with the Project would be limited to the anticipated zone of groundwater drawdown, which is limited to an area with a radius of approximately 2.5km from the Dargues Reef Mine. Notwithstanding this, the reduction in groundwater level would result in reduction of groundwater discharge to Spring and Majors Creeks of up to 2.5L/s. This reduction in base flow would not have the potential to impact on Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site and is unlikely to impact on Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC located downstream of the Project Site, particularly within the Majors Creek State Conservation Area (MC SCA).

In order to compensate for the proposed loss of groundwater flows within Majors and Spring Creeks, the Proponent committed to ensure that an equivalent volume of water would be discharged to Majors Creek from the commencement of mining operations until such time as the loss of baseflow is determined to be negligible. Discharge of this water is described in the Water Management Plan for the Project. In summary, however, the water for the compensatory flow program would be preferentially sourced from the approved harvestable rights dams to ensure that the quality of water released meets the requirements of the relevant guidelines.

A site water balance was undertaken using 40 years of composite rainfall daily rainfall data. That assessment concluded that the proposed harvestable rights dams could provide water required for the proposed environmental flows on 93% of days modelled. On those days when water would not be available from the harvestable rights dams, water for environmental flows would be sourced from the historic workings and a water treatment plant within the processing plant.


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Figure 1 Simulated Piezometric Drawdown – End of Mining




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5.3 ANTICIPATED IMPACTS ON PHREATOPHYTIC VEGETATION

5.3.1 Anticipated Impacts on Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

5.3.1.1 Health Status of the Tableland Basalt EEC

Historic land use and management practices including the clearing and fragmentation of native vegetation, the unrestricted grazing of livestock within remnant vegetation, the establishment of exotic pasture grasses, the unrestrained spread of woody weeds, historic mining activity and the uncontrolled erosion of gullies and waterways have contributed to the present health status of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC. The major consequence of these impacts on the pre-European condition of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC has been fragmentation and the alteration and / or loss of structure and species diversity.

Section 4.4.4 of Gaia (2010) identifies that the overstorey of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site is dominated by Ribbon Gum Eucalyptus viminalis and Narrow-leaved Peppermint E. radiata with occasional Snow Gum E. pauciflora. Many trees are mature and support hollows.

The sparse understorey includes small trees of Black Wattle Acacia mearnsii and Blackwood A. melanoxylon and the exotic Hawthorn Crataegus sp. Patches of Broom Cytisus scoparius are also present, although a weed management program targeting this species is currently in progress.

The grassy groundcover includes native grasses and herbs such as Native Raspberry Rubus parvifolius, Kidney Weed Dichondra spp., Twining Glycine Glycine clandestina, Slender Tick-trefoil Desmodium varians, Prickly Starwort Stellaria pungens, Native Geranium Geranium solander var. solanderi, Spiny-headed Mat Rush Lomandra longifolia, Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides, Wallaby Grasses Austrodanthonia spp., Kangaroo Grass Themeda australis, Bracken Fern Pteridium esculentum, Bidgee-Widgee Acaena novae-zelandiae, River Tussock Poa labillardierei, Common Raspwort Gonocarpus tetragynus, St. John’s Wort Hypericum gramineum and Stinking Pennywort Hydrocotyle laxiflora and exotic species such as Sorrel Acetosella vulgaris, Yorkshire Fog Holcus lanatus, Indian Hedge Mustard Sisymbrium orientale, Rye Grass Lolium perrene and other common exotic pasture species.

The community is distributed over the Project Site in small fragmented patches (Figure 2). Roads and land cleared as a result of previous mining and agricultural activities are the main actions that have caused the fragmentation. Figure 2 classifies the community into fragmented and less fragmented sections. One of the objectives of the approved Biodiversity Offset Strategy is to reduce the degree of fragmentation of this community.

In addition, the expert report of Dr Steve Douglas, prepared for the appeal to the Project Approval, identifies the following in relation to the health status of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site.

The majority of the community that occurs within the Project Site does not exhibit

a species composition or structure that is indicative of groundwater dependency.

The exception is the in-stream and potentially some of the riparian vegetation

where groundwater is close to or at the surface. However, such areas are a small

proportion of the total community within the Project Site. Most of the in-stream

and riparian areas are in a highly modified condition due to previous mining and


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subsequent degradation unrelated to the Project. They are already at risk from

existing erosion, historical catchment modifications (mostly related to alluvial

mining operations and land clearing for pastoralism) and weed infestation.

The dominant canopy species within the community is Ribbon Gum. This is a

species that occurs across a relatively wide rainfall range, extending from very high

to low annual rainfall averages across much of the coast, ranges, and slopes of

southeastern Australia. The Project Site has annual average rainfall far above the

driest sites in which this species occurs and the rainfall in the vicinity of the Project

Site is relatively evenly distributed throughout each year.

The majority of the area of and species within the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC are

unlikely to be groundwater dependent and the majority of trees within the

community are likely to be able to survive in the absence of groundwater.

Finally, it is noted that insect attack impacted adversely on the health of some of the canopy trees associated with this community within and surrounding the Project Site intermittently between 2011 to 2016. That issue would appear to have been a temporary one, and while some trees were killed as a result, the remainder appear to be recovering.

Further detailed information in relation to the health status of this community, including quadrat and transect results, is provided in Appendices 2 and 3 of Gaia (2010). In addition, the expert reports of Dr Steve Douglas and Mr Greg Stone and a report prepared by Mr Stone details the results of a review of insect damage to canopy trees within the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within and surrounding the Project Site.

5.3.1.2 Anticipated Impacts on Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

The Project will result in drawdown of groundwater within and immediately surrounding the Project Site. The zone of drawdown includes the full extent of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site within two years of the commencement of mining operations Figures 1 and 2.

Whilst groundwater levels will be drawn down beneath the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC remnants within the Project Site, this is unlikely to significantly compromise that vegetation at the community scale. The majority of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site does not exhibit a species composition or structure that is indicative of groundwater dependency. Components of the community are likely use groundwater to some extent in some areas, however, such use is not necessarily a dependency, and more so, not necessarily a dependency at the community level.

The groundwater assessment determined that the groundwater level within the majority of the area occupied by the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC is between 8m and 15m below the surface. However, within the steeply incised creek lines the groundwater level is typically less than 8m from the surface.

In light of the above, potential impacts to the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC may be divided into two groups, namely impacts to the in-stream and riparian vegetation and impacts to the remainder of the community.




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Figure 2 On-Site Biodiversity Area


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5.3.1.3 In-stream and Riparian Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

The section of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC at greatest risk of being affected by groundwater drawdown is the in-stream and (potentially) the riparian vegetation located within steeply incised creek lines. However, such areas are a small proportion of the total Tableland Basalt Forest EEC community within the Project Site. In addition, at least some of the vegetation within the incised creek lines cannot be classified as Tableland Basalt Forest EEC. Finally, most of the in-stream and riparian areas are in a highly modified condition due to previous mining and subsequent degradation unrelated to the Project. They are already at risk from existing erosion, historical catchment modifications (mostly land clearing for pastoralism) and weed infestation. The majority of the vegetation within and immediately adjoining Spring Creek and its tributaries is regrowth after earlier intensive alluvial mining.

As a result, the lowering of groundwater levels within the Project Site and the cessation of base flows in Spring Creek for a period commencing around 12 months after the commencement of mining operations and continuing for a period of up to four to five years post-mining, may cause the contraction or death of some of the in-stream and riparian native vegetation. This includes some typical ‘wetland’ species that have high moisture requirements.

5.3.1.4 Remainder of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

Given the depth to groundwater, with the exception of the in-stream and some riparian Tableland Basalt Forest EEC, the only other component of the community that may be capable of accessing groundwater is a portion of the canopy trees (principally Eucalyptus viminalis – Ribbon Gum) and possible sections of the relatively sparse subcanopy (e.g. Acacia melanoxylon - Blackwood). However, it is noted that use does not necessarily equate to dependency. Neither of the identified species is typically indicative of groundwater dependency in other environments and the climate of the Project Site, namely with relatively evenly distributed annual rainfall, even during period of drought.

Notwithstanding the above, it is possible that some components and individuals within the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC may accesses groundwater where root depth, soil depth, and rock fractures permit. However, it remains unknown.

which areas of the community, other than riparian and in-stream component,

access the groundwater; and

whether any such use is a dependency.

5.3.1.5 Overview of the Anticipated Impacts

In summary, Dr Douglas and Mr Stone state that the effects of groundwater drawdown on the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within and adjacent to the Project Site is considered likely to be negligible, with the exception of riparian and in-stream vegetation associated with the highly modified Spring Creek.

In qualifying the above, however, Dr Douglas and Mr Stone also note that the riparian and in-stream components of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC occur within the highly modified Spring Creek and that the Company will implement a range of measures to stabilise and appropriately manage what are otherwise chronic existing threats to the remnant vegetation and associated habitats associated with Spring Creek and its tributaries.




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Riparian and in-stream vegetation associated with Majors Creek downstream of the Project Site and outside of the area of groundwater drawdown is unlikely to be impacted by that drawdown as a result of the compensatory flow program that will replace lost base flow within Majors Creek.

5.3.2 Anticipated Impacts on Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC

The Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC is located downslope and east of the Project Site on the Araluen Escarpment. None of this community is located with the Project Site or within or in the immediate vicinity of the anticipated extent of the groundwater drawdown. In addition, the compensatory flow program will ensure that the Project-related reduction in base flow within Majors Creek will be replaced with the appropriate volume of water. As a result, the Project will not have a significant direct impact on the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC or any associated potentially groundwater dependent habitats downstream of the Project Site or within the Majors Creek State Conservation Area.

In addition, it is noted that the composition of the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC is not such that groundwater dependency is likely to be a significant requirement for the community. Indeed, such dependency is not identified in the associated Final Determination for the community (NSW Scientific Committee, 2008). Finally, Dr Douglas also notes the following in relation to the community.

Notwithstanding the fact that there is little to suggest groundwater dependency

associated with the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC, there is a ‘dry rainforest’

component to the community as evidenced by the species list for the community

identified by the Final Determination (NSW Scientific Committee, 2008). The ‘dry

rainforest’ component is usually apparent by the presence of distinctive Ficus

rubiginosa (Rusty Fig) associated with rocky outcrops that lack sufficient soil depth

to support the community’s more typical canopy species of Eucalyptus and

Angophora. However, Dr Douglas notes that the ‘dry rainforest’ is likely a result of

increased shelter and/or reduced incidence / severity of fire, rather than being a

product of groundwater dependency or availability.

Irrespective of the above, it is feasible, however, that some occurrences of more

rainforest-like vegetation within very small sections of the Araluen Scarp Grassy

Forest EEC may be partially a result of groundwater seepage. However, there is no

evidence that such seepages will be impacted by the Project.

In light of the above, there is little to suggest that Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC is a groundwater-dependent community and, taking into account the compensatory flow program, there is nothing to suggest that it will be adversely impacted by the Project. In addition, the community will benefit from a reduced weed propagule load in the Majors Creek catchment due to weed control operations to be undertaken as part of the Project.

Notwithstanding the above, Eco Logical Australia (Eco Logical) undertook a survey for the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forrest EEC, on 22 March 2016, downstream of the Project Site in areas that were accessible. That survey indicated that, the Araluen Scarp Grassy Forest EEC was present and confirmed that it existed in areas unlikely to be impacted by groundwater drawdown, namely ridges and upper slopes.


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5.4 PHREATOPHYTIC VEGETATION MONITORING PROGRAM

The original version of this Plan sought to implement the following program, to identify and monitor for potential impacts to phreatophytic vegetation associated with the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC, both within and surrounding the Project Site.

Pre-dawn water potential and transpiration via porometry (flux of water from leaf

surface measured by hand-held device clipped onto leaves) as described in

Identifying Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (Eamus, 2009).

Measurement of groundwater levels within and surrounding the Project Site as

described in the Water Management Plan.

Measurement of rainfall and evaporation using an automated weather station

within the Project Site as described in the Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas

Management Plan.

This original program was to be generally consistent with the methodology described in the joint expert’s report of Merchant, Douglas, Stone and Briese prepared for the appeal to the project approval. However, following extensive discussion with a range of specialists, it was determined that the program, as outlined above, would be unlikely to be suitable for determining whether the Project is impacting on phreatophytic vegetation or whether this vegetation is simply reacting to other stressors in the environment. The limitations associated with the current proposed methodology include:

The number of data points that can be collected is restricted by physical sampling

effort.

The ability of the data collected to provide meaningful information is reduced as

a result of the limited data that is able to be collected and potential for other

factors to be affecting vegetation health during the sampling event.

Occupational health and safety issues related to:

– working at height;

– operation of pressure vessels;

– working at night;

– climatic conditions; and

– remote locations.




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As a result, the Company has investigated alternative options to identify and monitor for potential impacts to phreatophytic vegetation. It is now proposed that measurement of the continuous and integrated plant water use will be undertaken, using the SFM1 Sap Flow Meter and the continuous and integrated plant water status using the PSY1 Stem Psychrometer. The high temporal resolution data (10 min logging intervals) will provide real time data of the plants kinetic response to fluctuations in the ambient environment.

Analysing these continuous diurnal fluctuations over a seasonal basis, with reference to Vapour Pressure Deficit (VPD), provided by the Automated Weather Station (AWS) located at the Site, will provide a wealth of empirical data that would clearly demonstrate whether the phreatophytic vegetation is suffering any level of water stress and if so, whether it is due to ambient atmospheric demand or an inability to access water reserves within the phreatic zone.

The below provides a summary of the proposed methodology:

Initial monitoring is proposed to include four SFM1 Sap Flow Meters, locating one

SFM1 in each quadrant (North, South, East and West) of the tree being monitored

to quantify the circumferential variability of tree water use. A minimum of three

trees would be monitored initially.

This data would then be used to determine the error associated in determining

whole tree water use for less than four measurements per tree. Based on the error

analysis these 12 SFM1 Sap Flow meters can then either be left in-situ monitoring

these three trees or be deployed across more trees decreasing the spatial error of

the average water use measured.

Assuming the above circumferential error is acceptable, a single PSY1 Stem

Psychrometer per tree is expected to be adequate to provide a meaningful result

for plant water status. Given this, 12 trees would be selected, both within and

outside of the anticipated groundwater drawdown area for monitoring over a

period of 12 months.

Following completion of the initial 12 months of monitoring, a detailed technical

report analysing the results of the program will be provided to the Department of

Planning and Environment for review. This review will seek to determine the

effectiveness of the monitoring program and its value to the Project.

Measurement of groundwater levels within and surrounding the Project Site as

described in the Water Management Plan.

Measurement of rainfall evaporation and VPD using an automated weather

station within the Project Site as described in the Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas

Management Plan.

A report will be prepared and included in the Annual Review following the initial 12 months of monitoring. That report would describe the following.

The methodology employed.


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The results of the monitoring program.

Recommendations regarding the monitoring program, including the frequency of

such monitoring and any recommendations for mitigation of drawdown effects

should these become evident.

Trigger values and response plans would be developed following completion of an initial 12 months of monitoring and would be adjusted as further data becomes available. The results of the monitoring report, together with the revised trigger values and response plans (if required) will be summarised in the Annual Review and a revised version of this document.

5.5 OFF-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY

As indicated in Section 5.3.4.1 and 5.3.2, adverse Project-related impacts on phreatophytic vegetation are not anticipated. However, during negotiations with the appellants to the project approval, the company agreed to establish an off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy within 12 months of the commencement of construction, namely by December 2017. Alternatively, the Company would, in consultation with Office of Environment and Heritage, ensure that an equivalent amount of funds that would have been required to establish and manage the off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy are made available in perpetuity for the management of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC in the vicinity of the Project Site. This commitment is embodied in Commitment 5.9a of the Statement of Commitments in Appendix 5 of MP10_0054.

At the time of finalisation of this document, a suitable biodiversity offset area had not been identified, although the Company has been advised that suitable properties exist within the vicinity of the Project Site.

Once a suitable biodiversity offset area has been identified, or it has been determined that a monetary commitment would result in better biodiversity outcomes, the Company would prepare, in consultation with Office of Environment and Heritage, a suitable management plan for the biodiversity offset area or the management fund that would be established.

6. M A N A G E M E N T O F T H E O N - S I T E B I O D I V E R S I T Y O F F S E T A R E A

6.1 INTRODUCTION

This section describes the approved On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy and the measures that will be implemented and timing for implementation of those measures within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area. Section 7 describes the performance and completion criteria that will be used to determine the success or otherwise of the strategy. Section 8 describes the measures that will be implemented to manage the remaining sections of the Project Site.

6.2 OVERVIEW OF THE ON-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY

The on-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy is described in Section 2.15.4 of the 2010 Environmental Assessment and Section 4.3.6 of the MOD 3 Environmental Assessment. The objectives of the strategy are identified in Section 4 of this document. That section identifies that the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy would, in summary, include the following.




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Fencing and amelioration of areas of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Re-establishment of native grassland in those areas of the Biodiversity Offset Area

identified as “Native-dominated Pasture” on Figure 2, with the objective of

establishing a community as close as possible to the composition of the Natural

Temperate Grassland EEC. This will be achieved through:

– ensuring that all agricultural activities, including grazing, are consistent with

increased biodiversity value of the grassland / pasture areas;

– refraining from the use of inappropriate fertilisers or tilling of the ground; and

– collection and spreading of the seed of suitable native grass species.

Continued soil stabilisation works adjacent to existing drainage lines to limit

further gully development and stabilise those drainage lines in the long term.

Continued management of weeds and feral animals.

During the assessment and subsequent negotiations associated with the project approval and MOD3, the Company agreed to extend the original biodiversity offset area. Figure 2 presents the approved On-site Biodiversity Offset Area. In summary, the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area is approximately 300ha in size and includes all areas of Tableland Basalt Forest within the Project Site. The On-site Biodiversity Offset Area has been divided in to two domains, namely an area that will be fenced and managed for the purpose of preserving and enhancing the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC, with the remainder to be managed in a manner that would ensure the preservation and enhancement of native-dominated pasture. Table 5 presents the areas of each vegetation community within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area.

Table 5 Vegetation Communities within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area

Vegetation Community Area within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area

Tableland Basalt Forest EEC 8.7

Fragmented Tableland Basalt Forest EEC 7.1

Regenerating wattles 7.6

Exotic vegetation 5.1

Natural Temperate Grassland 0.2

Native – dominated pasture 265.7

Exotic pasture 2.5

Largely disturbed land 3.9

River Peppermint Open Forest 1.3

TOTAL 302.1

Note 1: Existing areas prior to the commencement of mining operations


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6.3 SECURING THE ON-SITE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET STRATEGY

Section 2.15.5 of the Environmental Assessment indicates that the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy would be secured in perpetuity through preparation of a Property Vegetation Plan under Part 4 of the Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NV Act). However, the NV Act was replaced by the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) prior to implementation of the Property Vegetation Plan. As a result, the Office of Environment and Heritage’s have indicated that their preference is for a Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement to secure Biodiversity Offsets. Given that the new legislation is yet to be implemented, the Company will undertake further negotiations with Office of Environment and Heritage to identify the most appropriate method to secure the on-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy. This negotiation will be undertaken prior to March 2017.

6.4 MANAGEMENT MEASURES

6.4.1 Introduction

This section provides further details in relation to measures that would be implemented to manage remnant vegetation and other habitat within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area. In particular, the following sub-sections identify management measures that would be implemented in relation to the following.

Management of erosion and gully development.

Management of weeds and feral pests.

Management of areas of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Management of the remainder of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area.

It is noted that mining and agricultural, principally grazing, operations will be ongoing within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area throughout the life of the Project. Finally, the Company will, where appropriate, engage with the local community in relation to management of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area and will seek to identify and implement joint biodiversity-related projects.

6.4.2 Management of Erosion and Gully Development

Significant erosion and gully development has occurred along Spring Creek as a result of past land use practices, including the removal of native vegetation, unrestricted grazing and alluvial mining. In a number of locations, active erosion and gully development is evident.

Prior to the implementation of any remediation or amelioration activities in the vicinity of actively eroding sections of Spring Creek, the Company will engage a suitably qualified geomorphologist or similar to advise the Company on which sections of Spring Creek will require remediation to ensure stability in the long-term and the most appropriate mechanism for ensuring that stability. That report would be commissioned and completed within 12 months of the commencement of construction operations.




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Following receipt of the report, the Company will consider the recommendations contained within the report and develop a program to implement those recommendations, taking into account available funds and climatic conditions. Following development of that program, the Company will provide both the expert’s report and the proposed program to implement the recommendations to the following government agencies by way of consultation.

DPI-Water.

Office of Environment and Heritage.

Division of Resources and Energy.

Department of Planning and Environment.

The purpose of that consultation will be to establish the approval/licencing requirements for the proposed program and the concurrence of the agencies in relation to the program.

Once approved and all relevant licences have been obtained, the Company will implement the agreed program in accordance with the timetable identified within the final report.

It is anticipated that the stabilisation program will include but not be limited to the following activities.

Limited earthworks to reduce the slope of eroding sections of Spring Creek and its

tributaries, including placement of rock, soil and construction of soil stabilisation

structures as required.

Revegetation and stabilisation of reshaped and other areas with appropriate

species both within and on the banks of the drainage lines.

It is noted that fencing identified in Section 6.4.4.2 would have the effect of preventing further damage by stock of those sections of Spring Creek within the identified area.

6.4.3 Management of Weeds and Pests

6.4.3.1 Weed Management

Sections of the Project Site have been previously and are currently heavily weed infested. The company, following its purchase of the northern section of the Project Site in 2008, undertook an intensive weed management program, removing extensive areas of Blackberry, Broom and other weeds. As a result, the northern section of the Project Site which comprises the majority of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area is relatively weed free.

The southern section of the Project Site was purchased by the Company in 2010 and an intensive weed management program is currently underway. Notwithstanding this, the southern section of the Project Site is currently heavily infested with broom, blackberry and other woody weeds (Figure 2). As far as practicable, weed infested areas have been excluded from the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area. As a result, weed management within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area is discussed in Section 8.4.2.


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6.4.3.2 Pest Management

Management of pest animals within the Biodiversity Offset Area will include annual pest management programs, in consultation with surrounding landholders and Palerang Council Pest Officers, for the following species known to occur within the Project Site.

Fox.

Rabbit.

Pig.

Management measures would include laying of baits and shooting. When undertaking baiting programs, the Company will ensure that baits used will not result in adverse impacts on threatened or other native species.

6.4.4 Management of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

6.4.4.1 Introduction

Section’s 2.15.4 and 4.3.5 of the 2010 Environmental Assessment identify the following management measures that will be implemented to ensure that the objectives of the Biodiversity Offset Strategy are achieved in relation to the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Identification and fencing of areas of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Ensuring that there are no surface disturbing activities within areas of Tableland

Basalt Forest EEC.

Ameliorative planting of locally endemic tree and shrub species within areas of

Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Continued soil stabilisation works (addressed in Section 6.4.2).

Continued weed and pest control programs (addressed in Section 6.4.3).

Ensure that dead fallen and standing timber are not removed or disturbed to

preserve fauna habitat.

Management of fire.

The following sub-sections provide further information in relation to each of the above, as well as additional management measures that will be implemented.

6.4.4.2 Fencing of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

The Company has fenced the area of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area as indicated on Figure 2. This area is referred to hereafter as the “fenced area.” Fencing will be standard agricultural fencing with gates installed as required. This will permit movement of native fauna into and out of the fenced area, while still permitting access for land management purposes.




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It is noted that areas of proposed disturbance indicated with a yellow boxed hatchure on Figure 2 will be excluded from the fenced area during the operational phase of the Project. However, during final landform establishment, these areas would be revegetated in a manner consistent with the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC and the fenced area would be extended to include the area indicated by the yellow boxed hatchure.

6.4.4.3 Management of Surface Disturbing Activities

The Company will ensure that surface disturbing activities are strictly limited to those required for biodiversity or land management purposes. In light of this commitment the Company will implement the following.

Exclude stock from the fenced area of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC, unless

introduction of stock is required for biodiversity purposes such as management of

weeds or reduction of fuel loads.

Ensure that there are no new vehicular tracks created and that existing tracks are

maintained in a manner that will ensure that they do not adversely impact on the

biodiversity values of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Ensure that pipelines to be constructed through the fenced areas are constructed

in a manner that does not disturb the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Ensure that access to the fenced area is limited to approved personnel only.

6.4.4.4 Habitat Amelioration and Reestablishment

As indicated on Figure 2, sections of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC within the Project Site may be classified as “fragmented” where past land use practices have resulted in clearing of land and fragmentation of the habitat associated with the community. In addition, sections of the fenced area are identified as comprising regenerating wattles, woody weed shrubland or native-dominated pasture. In each case, it is the Company’s intention to undertake a range of ameliorative actions with the objective of increasing the habitat value of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area as a whole and establishing a self-sustaining ecosystem that will require minimal land management following the completion of the Project.

In addition to the actions identified in the preceding and following sub-sections, the ameliorative actions would indicatively include the following.

Management of weeds and pests as described in Sections 6.3.3.

Collection and storage of seed of species representative of the Tableland Basalt

Forest EEC.

Progressive rehabilitation of disturbed sections of the fenced area, including areas

disturbed for prior mineral exploration activities.


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Progressive revegetation programs, where required, to provide linkages between

existing areas of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC. It is anticipated that with the

removal of stock, that natural regeneration will occur and that the proposed

amelioration will only be required where natural regeneration is not occurring or

where such regeneration would take an unreasonable length of time to establish.

Ensure that fallen timber and vegetation is left in place and import such material

from other sections of the Project Site where clearing operations are required.

This will provide further habitat for ground-dwelling fauna, increasing the

biodiversity value of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area.

6.4.4.5 Management of Habitat for Majors Creek Leek Orchid

As indicated on Figure 2, potential habitat for the Majors Creek Leek Orchid was originally considered to exist in one location within the Project Site, namely adjacent to Spring Creek within the area to fenced and managed for the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC. Targeted searches for this species failed to locate it and the specialist consultant indicates that the habitat is highly disturbed and would not support this orchid.

6.4.4.6 Management of Fire

It is noted that fire is a natural part of the Australian landscape and that native flora species are typically well adapted to fire. In general, fire within the Project Site will be managed in accordance with the approved Bushfire Management Plan. However, it is also recognised that periodic burning is required to facilitate regeneration of some species of native flora. As a result, planned burnings within the Project Site as a whole and the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC in particular will be undertaken in consultation with Office of Environment and Heritage and the local Rural Fire Service. The objectives of those programs will be as follows (in priority order).

Fuel reduction to comply with Rural Fire Service requirements and good land

management practices.

Biodiversity management, including facilitating regeneration of fire-dependent

species.

6.4.4.7 Management of the Tailings Storage Facility

The expert report of Dr Ross Smith prepared for the appeal to the project approval identified that the supernatant water within the Tailings Storage Facility is unlikely to be toxic to birds or other fauna that may utilise the Tailings Storage Facility occasionally. Notwithstanding this, the Company will implement the following to minimise the potential for fauna to be adversely impacted through use of the facility.

Fence the facility.

Minimise the greatest extent possible the area of the supernatant pond on the

surface of the Tailings Storage Facility.




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Include on the daily Tailings Storage Facility inspection checklist a requirement to

record whether the facility is being utilised by fauna. If so, determine the species

using the facility, the frequency and duration of that use and whether there are

any apparent adverse consequences associated with that use.

Contact Office of Environment and Heritage in the event that adverse

consequences associated with fauna use of the Tailings Storage Facility are

identified and identify appropriate management measures that may be

implemented to manage the issue. This may include use of bird scarers, lights or

noise generators.

6.4.4.8 Management of the Power Line

In order to ensure that there would be no adverse impact on trees in the vicinity of the power line, the Company will ensure that the power line is installed in accordance with AS4970-2009 – Protection of Trees on Development Sites. In particular, the Company would ensure that the power line would be designed and subsequently installed outside the Tree Protection Zone for trees in the vicinity of the power line route.

6.4.5 Management of the Native-dominated Pasture

6.4.5.1 Introduction

Section’s 2.15.4 and 4.3.5 of the Environmental Assessment identify the following management measures that will be implemented to ensure that the objectives of the Biodiversity Offset Strategy are achieved in relation to the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC.

Ensure that agricultural activities, including grazing practices, fertiliser use and

tilling, are consistent with increased biodiversity value of the grassland / pasture

areas.

Collect and spread the seed of suitable native grass species.

Continued weed and pest control programs (addressed in Section 6.4.3).

The following sub-sections provide further information in relation to each of the above, as well as additional management measures that will be implemented.

6.4.5.2 Management of Agricultural Practices

As indicated in Section 2.15.2 of the 2010 Environmental Assessment, it was agreed during consultation with Office of Environment and Heritage that continued grazing of the grassland/pasture areas of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area would be appropriate provided that the use was consistent with management of the land for biodiversity purposes. This will have the additional advantages of providing an ongoing beneficial use of the land that will generate income following completion of the Project for the ongoing management of those areas of the Project Site described in Section 6.4.4.


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6.4.5.2.1 Grazing Management

The Company has entered into an agistment agreement with a neighbouring landowner (the Licensee) to stock the Project Site with an average of 100 head of cattle over a period of 12 months. The Licensee has extensive experience in the management of native dominated grasslands, particularly those associated with the Project Site.

Grazing within the On-Site Biodiversity Offset area will be managed in a manner that promotes the re-establishment of native-dominated pastures and will be carried out consistent with Best Management Practices for Temperate Perennial Pastures in New South Wales prepared by NSW Department of Primary Industries, namely.

Minimise ground disturbance within areas of native dominated pastures, including

restricting tillage of soils within the On-Site Biodiversity Offset Area, limiting

vehicles to formed roads and tracks.

Increasing the number of paddocks within the On-Site Biodiversity Offset Area and

reducing their overall size in order to allow a greater amount of flexibility when

grazing and to ensure that the appropriate grazing pressure is applied.

A regime of short periods of intense grazing, to reduce selective grazing of

preferential species will be gradually phased in as fencing of the On-Site

Biodiversity Offset Area is completed.

Consistent with Commitment 5.2, the use of phosphate based fertiliser within the

On-Site Biodiversity Offset Area would not occur.

6.4.5.3 Habitat Amelioration and Re-establishment

As indicated in Section 2.15.4 of the 2010 Environmental Assessment is to encourage a gradual change within the grassland/pasture covered areas of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area from being merely native-dominated to a composition that is more closely aligned with the Natural Temperate Grassland EEC. The Company anticipates that this may be achieved through appropriate management of agricultural operations. However, in the event that monitoring indicates that this is not the case or that the change in composition is likely to take an unreasonable period of time, the Company would investigate methods to harvest seed of suitable native grassland species within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area for use in ameliorative plantings.

The procedures, including timing and equipment, to be used to harvest that seed would be determined in consultation with recognised experts and would depend on the species or range of species to be harvested.

6.4.5.4 Use of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area for Education Purposes

The Company anticipates that through trial-and-error, it will develop a range of agricultural practices that may be of benefit to the surrounding agricultural community. The potential benefits of such practices may include:




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reduced cost of production through reduced input costs;

improved drought resistance through use of native species; and

improved soil management through maintenance of a minimum biomass.

In light of the above, the Company will maintain records of activities undertaken and the associated financial and environmental returns. This information would be made available as appropriate.

7. B I O D I V E R S I T Y O F F S E T M O N I T O R I N G , C O M P L E T I O N C R I T E R I A A N D T I M I N G

7.1 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET MONITORING PROGRAM

7.1.1 Introduction

The Company will implement a biodiversity offset monitoring program throughout the life of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy. This program is designed to measure performance of the strategy and to identify areas where further amelioration or other action is required to ensure the required performance and completion criteria identified in Section 7.2 are achieved. It is also noted that this monitoring program will be implemented in conjunction with the phreatophytic vegetation monitoring program identified in Section 5.3.3.

It is noted that Sections 6 and 7 of the Mining Operations Plan describe a range of rehabilitation activities that would be undertaken within sections of the Project Site that would be disturbed by the Project. This similarly includes a monitoring program and performance and completion criteria. The information presented in this sub-section and Section 6.5.2 is intended to be consistent with the procedures identified in that document.

7.1.2 Vegetation Monitoring Program

The Company has established a range of monitoring locations within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area as indicated on Figure 2. These include the following.

Four quadrats, two within the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC and two within

grassland areas. These are consistent with those identified on Map 4 of the Mining

Operations Plan.

Seven photo monitoring locations.

In addition, the Company has, with landholder agreement, establish a minimum of one quadrat monitoring location in each of the Tableland Basalt Forest EEC and Natural Temperate Grassland EEC outside of the Project Site. These off-site monitoring locations will be located in areas where each of these communities is in good condition and will act as controls to gauge the performance of the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy.

The Company undertakes monitoring of vegetation quadrats on a six monthly basis, with the frequency of the monitoring to be reviewed following the initial 12 months of monitoring.


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At each quadrat monitoring location a 20m by 20m quadrat or 100m transect will be established and permanently marked. The vegetation within that quadrat or transect would be identified using the methodology described in Section 3.2 of Gaia (2010) (presented as Part 2 of the Specialist Consultant Studies Compendium prepared to support the 2010 Environmental Assessment).

In addition, the Company has established a range of photo monitoring locations (Figure 2). Each location has been clearly marked using a numbered steel peg. A photographic record of the vegetation at each location will be collected every three months. Photographs will preferentially be taken

using a similar zoom (approximately 50mm if an SLR camera is being used) on each

occasion;

at approximately the same time during the middle part of the day;

preferentially on bright but overcast days when there is limited direct light to

create distinctive shadows;

facing the north, west, south and east.

Following the completion of each quadrat or transect monitoring program, a report will be prepared to tabulate comparable data between monitoring locations and over time at each monitoring location. In addition, after each photographic monitoring program, the photographs will be copied into a document identifying location, date and time of the photograph. Copies of these reports will be provided in the Annual Environmental Management Report.

7.1.3 Fauna Monitoring Program

The Company will implement the following fauna monitoring programs throughout the life of the Project.

Summer – general fauna monitoring program. This program will be undertaken in

a manner that is consistent with the methodology identified in Section 3.3 of Gaia

(2010) (presented as Part 2 of the Specialist Consultant Studies Compendium

prepared to support the Environmental Assessment).

Late winter – monitoring survey for active Little Eagle nests. If such nests are

identified, a management plan will be prepared in consultation with Office of

Environment and Heritage.

Following the completion of each fauna monitoring program, a report will be prepared to tabulate comparable data between monitoring locations and over time at each monitoring location. A copy of that report will be provided in the Annual Environmental Management Report.




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7.1.4 Aquatic Ecology and Monitoring Program

The Company has an established an aquatic ecology monitoring program which has been in place since 2011. The aquatic ecology monitoring program is undertaken 6 monthly in Spring and Autumn. The frequency of monitoring will be reviewed following 12 months of data collection after commencement of construction.

Following the completion of each aquatic ecology monitoring program, a report will be prepared to tabulate comparable data between monitoring locations and over time at each monitoring location. A copy of that report will be provided in the Annual Environmental Management Report.

7.1.5 Stygofauna Monitoring Program

The Company will undertake a stygofauna monitoring program within 3 months of the commencement of construction. The monitoring program will include sampling at the following locations.

Two historic workings, namely Snobs and Dargues Reef workings.

Two on-site bores or exploration drill holes.

Two off-site bores or exploration drill holes, pending landholder approval, with the

holes to be located outside the anticipated zone of groundwater drawdown.

The methodology to be used will be determined by the specialist consultant engaged to undertake the work and the frequency of subsequent monitoring programs will be determined by that specialist.

Following the completion of the initial and subsequent stygofauna monitoring programs, a report will be prepared outlining the findings of the program and providing a range of recommendations. A copy of that report will be provided in the Annual Environmental Management Report and this document will be updated to incorporate the results and recommendations of that report.

7.2 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET PERFORMANCE AND COMPLETION CRITERIA

Table 6 presents the biodiversity offset performance and completion criteria that will be used to assess the success or otherwise of the Biodiversity Offset Strategy. It is noted that these criteria are consistent with those presented in the Mining Operations Plan for the Project.

7.3 BIODIVERSITY OFFSET TIMING AND IMPLEMENTATION

Table 7 presents the timing for implementation of the management measures identified in Sections 5 and 6.


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Table 6 Biodiversity Offset Performance and Completion Criteria

Management Measure

Biodiversity Offset Objective/Performance

Criteria

Justification and

References

Indicator Completion Criteria

Off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Establish an off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Provide an offset for potential impacts to

phreatophytic vegetation

Statement of Commitments

Screening assessment to determine potential biodiversity offset areas

Screening assessment complete

Identify costs to purchase/manage biodiversity offset area

Preliminary costs assessment complete

Negotiate with Office of Environment and Heritage re most appropriate biodiversity offset strategy

Biodiversity offset strategy agreed between the Company and Office of Environment and Heritage

Implement agreed biodiversity offset strategy

Agreed strategy implemented

On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Management of Erosion and Gully Development

Stabilising of eroding drainage lines

2010 Environmental

Assessment

Preparation of geomorphologist’s report Report prepared and provided to relevant government agencies

Licencing/approvals Appropriate licences and appovals obtained Earthworks Earthworks complete

Revegetation Revegetation complete

Fencing Fencing complete

Management of Weeds and Pests

Weed management 2010 Environmental

Assessment

Management of Weeds and Pests Annual weed management program completed Weed management limited to maintenance only

Pest management Management of Weeds and Pests

Annual pest management program completed Pest management limited to maintenance only

Management Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

Fencing of Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

2010 Environmental

Assessment

Project Approval

Fencing Fences constructed as shown on Figure 2

Management of surface disturbing activities

Surface disturbing activities only for biodiversity management

No surface disturbing activities other than for management of biodiversity or approved by the project approval

Stock excluded Stock only permitted access for biodiversity management purposes

No new tracks No new tracks and existing tracks maintained in a manner that does not adversely impact on biodiversity

Pipeline construction Pipelines constructed in areas not currently identified as Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

Controlled access Access limited to approved personnel only




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Habitat amelioration and reestablishment

Seed collection Seed of native vegetation collected and stored appropriately

Progressive rehabilitation Disturbed areas reshaped and rehabilitated

Progressive revegetation Areas of fragmented Tableland Basalt Forest EEC, woody weeds or pasture revegetated to Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

Fallen vegetation and timber No removal of fallen vegetation and timber

Management of Fire Fire risk managed in accordance with the Bushfire Management Plan

Management of fire in accordance with the Bushfire Management Plan

Management of Grassland/ Pasture

Management of agricultural practices

2010 Environmental

Assessment Project

Approval

Preparation and implementation of a Grazing Management Plan

Plan prepared and implemented

Habitat amelioration and reestablishment

Fencing of water storages and Tailings Storage Facility

All water storages and Tailings Storage Facility fenced

Securing the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

2010 Environmental

Assessment

Project Approval

Payment of conservation bond Conservation bond established pending final securing of On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Identification of preferred methodology to secure the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Preferred methodology agreed with relevant government agencies

Preparation of required documentation Required documentation provided to government agencies for approval

Approval of required documentation Government agencies approve documentation

Implementation of preferred methodology Appropriate caveats entered onto title of land


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Table 7 Timing for Implementation of Biodiversity Management Measures

Management Measure1 Timing for Implementation2

Status as of month year

Off-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Screening assessment to determine potential biodiversity offset areas

6 months

Identify costs to purchase/manage biodiversity offset area

Complete Completed December

2012

Negotiate with Office of Environment and Heritage re most appropriate biodiversity offset strategy

Complete Completed February 2014

Implement agreed biodiversity offset strategy 12 months

On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Management of Erosion and Gully Development

Preparation of geomorphologist’s report Complete Completed April 2014

Licencing/approvals 9 months Earthworks 12 months3

Revegetation 12 months3

Fencing 9 months

Management of Weeds and Pests

Management of Weeds and Pests ongoing ongoing

Management Tableland Basalt Forest EEC

Fencing 6 months

Surface disturbing activities only for biodiversity management

ongoing

Stock excluded Complete Completed February 2012

No new tracks ongoing

Pipeline construction during pipeline construction

Controlled access ongoing ongoing

Seed collection ongoing ongoing

Progressive rehabilitation ongoing ongoing Progressive revegetation ongoing ongoing

Fallen vegetation and timber ongoing ongoing

Fire risk managed in accordance with the Bushfire Management Plan

ongoing ongoing

Management of Grassland/Pasture

Preparation and implementation of a Grazing Management Plan

6 months See Section 6.4.5.2

Fencing of water storages and TSF Within 3 months of construction

Securing the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Payment of conservation bond Complete Submitted February 2013

Identification of preferred methodology to secure the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy

Complete Completed February 2014

Preparation of required documentation 9 months

Approval of required documentation 12 months

Implementation of preferred methodology 15 months Note 1: See Table 6 for further details Note 2: Unless otherwise indicated, time periods commence at the re-commencement of construction operations as triggered by Condition 5(8). Note 3: Pending suitable climatic conditions.




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8. M A N A G E M E N T O F R E M A I N I N G S E C T I O N S O F T H E P R O J E C T S I T E

8.1 INTRODUCTION

This sub-section describes the land management practices that will be implemented within those sections of the Project Site that are not within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area (Figure 2). It is noted that management of that land is not explicitly addressed within the Environmental Assessment or project approval. However, the information is provided to assist onsite personnel manage that land and to allow other stakeholders to understand the Company’s approach to management of that land.

It is noted that the southern section of the Project Site was purchased by the Company in 2010. The ecology assessment undertaken immediately prior to that purchase identified the following vegetation communities within the southern section of the Project Site (Figure 2).

Tableland Basalt Forest EEC close to the boundary with the northern section of the

Project Site.

Extensive areas of woody weeds.

Regenerating wattles.

Native pasture.

A small area of exotic vegetation.

Largely disturbed land associated with land adjacent to Majors Creek that has

been previously disturbed by historic alluvial mining operations.

8.2 FINAL LANDFORM AND LAND USE

The Company will ensure that at the end of the life of the Project that the southern section of the Project Site is stable and non-polluting with land management requirements no greater than those of surrounding land.

The final land use will be a matter that will be identified during the consultation process. However, the Company anticipates that final land use will include:

nature conservation in areas prone to erosion or areas of regenerating wattles;

and

grazing in areas of existing native-dominate pasture or woody weeds (once the

weeds have been removed).


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8.3 MANAGEMENT MEASURES

8.3.1 Management of Erosion and Gullying

Significant erosion and gully development has occurred along Spring Creek as a result of past land use practices, including removal of native vegetation, unrestricted grazing and alluvial mining. In a number of locations, active erosion and gully development is evident.

Section 6.4.2 identifies a range of activities that will be implemented within the On-site Biodiversity Offset Area. Those procedures would also be implemented in the southern section of the Project Site, with timing of the measures and adoption of the recommendations included in the geomorphologist’s report determined in consultation with the surrounding community.

8.3.2 Management of Weeds and Pests

8.3.2.1 Weed Management

As noted in Section 6.4.3.1, the northern section of the Project Site, purchased by the Company in 2008, has been the subject of an extensive weed management program and is now largely weed free. The southern section, by contrast, is heavily weed infested. As a result, the Company has continued the weed management practices that were used successfully in the northern section of the Project Site. These include:

progressive removal of weeds, focusing particularly on broom and blackberry; and

exclusion of stock to allow regeneration of grasses within areas of prior weed

infestation.

Appendix 2 presents the current weed management plan for the Project Site for the period 2014 to 2019. It is noted that that plan focuses on progressive spraying of the margins of densely weed infested areas.

8.3.2.2 Pest Management

Pest management is addressed in Section 6.4.3.2. Procedures identified in that Section will be implemented across the entire Project Site, including the southern section of the Project Site.

8.3.3 Management of Regenerating Wattles

Section 4.3.4.3 of the Environmental Assessment identifies that the regenerating wattle community comprises patches of Black Wattle and Blackwood up to 5m high, with broom and/or blackberry commonly in the shrub layer.

Weeds within this community would be managed as described in Section 8.4.2.1. The Company contends that the remainder of the community is largely self-sustaining and no further management measures are required

8.3.4 Management Disturbed and Cleared Land

The remainder of the southern section of the Project Site comprises areas of:




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woody weed infestation;

land disturbed by historic alluvial mining operations;

cleared land that is currently classified as native-dominated pasture; and

a small area of exotic vegetation (Figure 2).

The Company will, in consultation with the surrounding community, implement the following management measures.

Repair and stabilise areas of active erosion and gullying as described in Section

8.4.1.

Removal of a small patch of exotic vegetation to limit the potential for seed of non-

native species to enter Majors Creek.

Re-establish native-dominated pasture and continue to graze stock in selected

portions of the southern section of the Project Site.

Fence and revegetate remaining areas with suitable endemic vegetation. The

Company anticipates that this will include disturbed sections of the land adjacent

to Majors Creek, as well as other selected areas to limit visibility of the Project Site

from the village of Majors Creek.

9. M A N A G E M E N T O F W O M B AT S

The company notes that during the consultation phase for the Environmental Assessment, the issue of management of wombats was raised on a number of occasions. The ecology assessment, prepared for the 2010 Environmental Assessment, identified that Common Wombat (Vombatus ursinus) occur within the Project Site. The Company is aware of a number of burrows within sections of the Project Site that will be disturbed. As a result, and notwithstanding the fact that the species is not listed as threatened, the Company will engage a suitable expert to prepare a Wombat Management Plan that identifies management measures to be implemented to relocate wombats within the Project Site and prevent them reoccupying their former burrows. That plan will be presented separately once complete.

10. M O N I T O R I N G A N D E VA L U AT I O N O F C O M P L I A N C E

Monitoring of phreatophytic vegetation and the On-site Biodiversity Offset Strategy is described in Sections 5.4 and 7.1 respectively.

When in operation, the Company prepares a monthly Environmental Monitoring and Management Report. That report will include an assessment of progress against the requirements in relation to biodiversity monitoring, performance and completion criteria and timeframes for implementation of actions. That report will be reviewed by the Environmental


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Superintendent and General Manager. Once approved, the report will be made publicly available on the Project website within 28 days.

Finally, the monthly environmental monitoring and management reports would be collated into the Annual Environmental Management Report for the Project which would also be made publicly available on the Project website once approved by the Division of Resources of Energy.

11. C O M P L A I N T S H A N D L I N G A N D R E S P O N S E

The Environmental Management System includes a detailed complaints management procedure. This sub-section records the procedures that would be implement following receipt of a biodiversity-related complaint.

Biodiversity-related complaints may be received either via one of the following methods.

Directly via the 24-hour, 7 day per week Community Information Line (1800 732

002). This number is advertised widely in the local media, on signage at the Project

Site entrance and on the Project web site.

Directly via a dedicated email address ([email protected])

which will be advertised in a similar manner to the Community Information Line.

Directly via the Project web site (www.divminerals.com.au).

Indirectly via the relevant government agencies.

In addition, public meetings will be held with the community as part of the Company’s standard consultation procedures. These meeting will provide a further forum at which complaints maybe received.

Following receipt of any biodiversity-related complaint, the Company will implement the following procedure.

1. The complaint will be reviewed by the Environmental Superintendent or their delegate to determine the nature, date and time of the event the subject of the complaint. Where appropriate, further information would be sought in relation to the complaint.

2. The Environmental Superintendent or their delegate would undertake a field inspection to attempt to verify the complaint. If required, the inspection may be undertaken in the company of the complainant or a suitably qualified expert.

3. Following the field inspection, a report would be prepared outlining the results of Steps 1 and 2 above and recommending further test work or other actions to rectify the issue. That report would be made available to the complainant. The Environmental Superintendent or their delegate would contact the complainant to discuss and attempt to resolve the complaint.

4. In the event that the procedures identified in Step 3 above resolves the issues raised, no further action would be taken. In the event that the complaint is not


http://www.divminerals.com.au/




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resolved, then the Environmental Superintendent would seek to determine what further test work would resolve the complaint and, where reasonable and appropriate, implement that test work.

5. In the event that multiple complaints are received from the same individual(s) and the Company can demonstrate:

– that it has appropriately investigated at least three of those complaints and

the results of those investigation indicate on each occasion that the complaint

is not justified; and

– there is documented evidence of a genuine attempt by the Company to discuss

the issue and seek a resolution with the complainant.

– then the Company may, in consultation with the relevant government

agencies, limit responses to further complaints from that individual(s).

12. P U B L I C AT I O N O F M O N I T O R I N G I N F O R M AT I O N

The Company would publish the monthly Environmental Monitoring and Management Reports and the Annual Environmental Management Report on the Project website within 28 days of them being approved by site management or the relevant government agencies respectively.

13. I N C I D E N T R E P O R T I N G

A range of management plans identify reporting requirements for incidents such as spills or accidents that may result in adverse impacts on biodiversity within or in the vicinity of the Project Site. As a result, reporting of those incidents will be governed by those plans.

Notwithstanding the above, however, the Company would implement as appropriate the following procedure in the event that unanticipated or unexplained adverse impacts on biodiversity within or surrounding the Project Site are observed, recorded during the various monitoring programs or reported by the community.

The Environmental Superintendent or their delegate would inspect the site of the

incident and determine if further investigation is action is required.

If further investigation is required, a suitably qualified and experienced specialist

would be engaged to undertake an assessment of the incident and provide a

report outlining the results of that assessment and recommending further action.

If the incident is sufficiently significant, the Environmental Superintendent will

contact the relevant government agency to discuss the matter. Where required,

the Environmental Supervisor may not wait until completion of the specialist’s

report before contacting the relevant agency.


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The Company will, on receipt of the specialist report and, if required, in

consultation with the relevant government agencies, implement the specialist

recommendations.

A report outlining the above and the subsequent actions taken will be prepared

and the specialist report appended. That report will be provided to the relevant

government agencies and provided on the Project web site within 28 of being

finalised.

14. R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y

ROLES RESPONSIBILITY

General Manager Must ensure adequate resources are available to enable implementation of the Plan.

Mining Manager Accountable for the overall environmental performance of the Dargues Reefs Operations, including the outcomes of this Plan.

HSEC Superintendent Ensure the implementation of this Plan. Ensure employees are competent through training and awareness programs.

15. C O M P E T E N C E T R A I N I N G A N D A WA R E N E S S

All personnel shall undergo biodiversity management awareness training as part of the Site induction program. The following areas will be covered in the induction:

The requirements of the project approval and statement of commitments in

relation to biodiversity management within the Project Site.

The sections of the Project Site for which general access is permitted and where

specific approvals are required prior to undertaking work.

The importance of ensuring that adverse biodiversity-related impacts are to the

greatest extent minimised.

16. R E V I E W

In accordance with Condition 5(4) of MP10_0054, this Plan will be reviewed and, if required, revised within 3 months of:

the submission of an annual review under Condition 5(3);

the submission of an incident report under Condition 5(6);

the submission of an audit report under Condition 5(8); and




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any modification to the conditions of MP10_0054.

All reviews will include the adequacy of strategies, plans and programs as required under the Project approval.

Recommendation for appropriate measures or action to improve the environmental performance of the Project and or any assessment, plan or program will be incorporated into this Plan.


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R E F E R E N C E S

Cardno Ecology Lab (November 2011) Dargues Reef Gold Project – Aquatic Ecological Assessment.

Eamus 2009 Identifying Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems.

Gaia (2010) Ecology Assessment presented as Part 2 in Volume 1 of the Specialist Consultants Studies Compendium prepared to support the Environmental Assessment dated September 2010.

NSW Scientific Committee (2008) Tableland Basalt Forest in the Sydney Basin and South Eastern Highlands Bioregions – endangered ecological community listing. Final Determination.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2011) NSW OEH Interim Policy on Assessing and Offsetting Biodiversity Impacts of Part 3A, State Significant Development (SSD) and State Significant Infrastructure (SSI) Projects in June 2011.

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