BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT SECTION OVERVIEW PROJECT 3 .2

SECTION 3.2 | BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

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3.2-i Jervois Base Metal Project

SECTION 3 | EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

3.2 Biological Environment

3.2.1 Introduction The Jervois Base Metal Project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Terms of Reference requires the EIS to describe and rate biological values including fauna, flora and vegetation communities and aquatic ecosystems of the Project area and local region. Specifically, it is required that the EIS should describe, quantify and map, where relevant the: • Details of vegetation community types occurring on and adjacent to the Project location • Significant or sensitive vegetation types and/or ecosystems within the Project area, including areas already cleared or disturbed (if any) • The presence or likely presence of species listed under the EPBC Act and/or the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act within the Project area and in any areas that may be impacted by the Project • Details of the significance, presence and extent of Eremophila cordatisepela • Location and description of suitable habitat for listed species, including the locations of historic records and consideration of habitat suitable for breeding, foraging, aggregation or roosting • Location and description of aquatic ecosystems or groundwater dependent ecosystems, including details of the likelihood of the presence and significance of subterranean fauna, likely to be affected by the Project; and • Presence, or likely occurrence, of introduced and invasive species (both flora and fauna) within and adjacent to the Project area, and regionally, including weed species declared under the Weed Management Act.

In order to satisfy the above listed requirements of the biological environment assessment, a number of ecological investigations were undertaken by Low Ecological Services P/L between 1985 and 2018. The 2018 report from these ecological investigations is provided in Appendix C-7.

3.2-1 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

3.2.1.1 Methodology Field investigations were made within the Project area to better understand the baseline conditions of the biological environment, including: • Flora and vegetation communities • Terrestrial fauna • Surface water systems; and • Groundwater systems.

Terrestrial flora and fauna surveys were conducted by LES in the late dry (1999 and 2017) and in the post wet (2012, 2013 and 2018), and included both desktop and field assessments. Field survey methods for vegetation surveys and landscape descriptions were based on “Northern Territory Guidelines and Field Methodology for Vegetation Survey and Mapping” (Brocklehurst, 2007) and “A resource assessment towards a conservation strategy for the Finke Bioregion” (Neave, 2004). General fauna survey methodology follows the NT EPA “Guidelines for Assessment of Impacts on Terrestrial Biodiversity” (NT EPA, 2013). Survey methods used to determine the presence of threatened fauna species were based on the Survey Guidelines for Australia’s Threatened Mammals (Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPC), 2011) and Survey Guidelines for Australia’s Threatened Birds (Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA), 2010). Flora and fauna desktop assessments involved database review and GIS mapping of several data sources which provided an ecological, landscape, vegetation and habitat context of the Project area.

Surface water and groundwater desktop studies included a review of previous studies and GIS mapping of several data sources. Surface water field surveys included 11 surface water quality monitoring sites across the Project area, including one monitoring site in Jervois Dam and 10 monitoring sites in the catchment of Unca Creek and its tributary downstream of Jervois Dam. Groundwater modelling was used to estimate impacts on groundwater in the external borefield and Project area.

More detailed information on flora, fauna, groundwater and surface water survey methods is provided in Sections 4.1, 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-2

\ Environmental Impact Statement

3.2.2 Biological Values

3.2.2.1 Vegetation communities

Existing vegetation mapping Vegetation communities in the Project area were mapped at a scale of 1: 1,000,000 in the Vegetation Survey of the Northern Territory (Wilson, 1990). Two broad vegetation classes occur across the Project area. These vegetation types closely correspond to land system boundaries, with Class 74 occurring within the Sonder land system, while Class 71 covers the remainder of the project area. These two vegetation classes are defined in Table 3.2-1.

Table 3.2-1 Description of vegetation types within the Project area Vegetation Broad vegetation Structural Fine vegetation description Unit classification formation 71 Acacia with grass Sparse Acacia aneura (Mulga) tall sparse understorey shrubland shrubland with grassland understorey 74 Acacia with grass Sparse Acacia stowardii (now sibirica) understorey shrubland (Bastard Mulga), Cassia,, Eremophila (Fuschsia) sparse shrubland

Surveyed vegetation communities There are clear relationships between landform, soil and vegetation across the NT. A unique integrated or ‘land unit’ approach to mapping landscape properties has been practiced across the Territory for many years (Brocklehurst, 2007), although the method is not recognised within the

3.2-3 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Northern Territory Bioregions Assessment (which only describes vegetation units) (Baker, 2005). Integrating soil, landform and vegetation data has allowed extensive value adding to datasets. Spatial data and mapping products can now contain soil and landform information as well as agricultural potential, erosion risk, vegetation information, native pasture ratings and sensitive or significant habitats. Integrated surveys include: ‘land systems’ and ‘land units’. The concept of a land system is defined as “an area or group of areas, throughout which there is a recurring pattern of topography (land forms), soils and vegetation, a land system being an assemblage of varying proportions of land units” (Brocklehurst, 2007).

Three broad land systems (Sonder, Bond Springs and Unca) occur within the Project area (Perry, 1962). Nine land units have been identified as occurring within the project area. The majority of the Project area falls within the Bond Springs (Bs) land system, consisting mainly of unit Bs4; a unit of undulating plains and drainage flats at the base of other Bs units. This system is dissected by numerous drainage lines and tributary channels that make up the Bs5 land unit. The Sonder (So) and Unca (Uc) land systems occupy the north-western and southern portions of the project area respectively. The So system shows distinct differences in landscape and geology, being composed of sedimentary sandstone and quartzite in the form of steep, benched cuestas and ridges.

Three land units exist within this system and while structure of vegetation communities resemble those in land units Bs2 and Bs3, species assemblages differ. Two land units exist within the Uc system, with the low hills of Uc4 occurring close to Bs3. The stony interfluves of Uc1 occur at the base of these hills and the numerous drainage channels that occur within this unit show a distinct vegetation type from the drainage channels of Bs5 (Table 3.2-2). These are shown in Figure 3.2-1. Based on survey results, eight refined vegetation communities have been mapped over the entire Project area, which is estimated at 3,800 ha. The vegetation communities present in each land unit and the dominant plant species present within each of these vegetation communities are shown in Table 3.2-2 and mapped in Figure 3.2-2.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-4

Table 3.2-2 Land systems, land units and vegetation communities present in the Project area Land System Land Unit Land Unit Description Vegetation Fine Description Dominant Species community Bond Bs2 Schist ridges forming 1 Hummock (Triodia basedowii, Acacia spondylophylla, Corymbia Springs: closely dissected tracts; Triodia pungens) grassland with apparrerinja, Triodia basedowii, Bold rocky short, rocky hill slopes, 10- sparse shrubs and low trees. Enneapogon oblongus hills, low 35%, with basal colluvial 4 Tall Acacia aneura woodland Acacia aneura, Atalaya hemiglauca, rugged aprons. over short grasses in fire Senna artemisioides ssp. helmsii, undulating protected valleys and upper Enneapogon polyphyllus, Aristida country and reaches of drainage lines. holathera narrow 2 Sparse, low Acacia siberica Acacia sibirica, Acacia aneura, plains. shrubland over short grasses and Atalaya hemiglauca, Aristida holathera, forbs. Aristida contorta, Enneapogon polyphyllus Bs3 Erosional slopes at the 2 Sparse, low Acacia siberica Acacia sibirica, Acacia aneura, foot of BS1; 1-5%. Rock shrubland over short grasses and Atalaya hemiglauca, Aristida holathera, outcrops in upper forbs. Aristida contorta, Enneapogon sectors, shallow gulling polyphyllus down slope. 1 Hummock (Triodia basedowii, Acacia spondylophylla, Corymbia Triodia pungens) grassland with apparrerinja, Triodia basedowii, sparse shrubs and low trees. Enneapogon oblongus 5 Tall, open woodland with Acacia estrophiolata, Acacia aneura, Corymbia and Acacia siberica Senna artemisioides ssp. oligophylla, over short grasses and forbs; on Enneapogon polyphyllus floodplains and at the base of ranges. Bs4 Discontinuous drainage 5 Tall, open woodland with Acacia estrophiolata, Acacia aneura, flats and basins with Corymbia and Acacia siberica Senna artemisioides ssp. oligophylla, minor tributary fans. over short grasses and forbs; on Enneapogon polyphyllus floodplains and at the base of ranges.

3.2-5 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Land System Land Unit Land Unit Description Vegetation Fine Description Dominant Species community 2 Sparse, low Acacia siberica Acacia sibirica, Acacia aneura, shrubland over short grasses and Atalaya hemiglauca, Aristida holathera, forbs. Aristida contorta, Enneapogon polyphyllus 3 Acacia estrophiolata tall, open Acacia estrophiolata, Acacia aneura, woodland over short grasses Acacia tetragonophylla, Pterocaulon with sparse shrubs. sphacelatum, Cenchrus ciliaris, Themeda triandra 7 Eucalyptus camaldulensis tall E. camaldulensis, Acacia estrophiolata, woodland over sparse grasses in Themeda triandra, Cenchrus ciliaris, drainage channels and rocky Eulalia auria creek beds. 8 Acacia georginae (Gidgee) Acacia georginae, Enneapogon dominated woodland. Sparse polyphyllus, Sclerolaena bicornis grass and forb understorey. Bs5 Channels up to 30 m 7 Eucalyptus camaldulensis tall E. camaldulensis, Themeda triandra, wide and 1.5 m deep. woodland over sparse grasses in Cymbopogon ambiguous, Triodia drainage channels and rocky longiceps creek beds. 5 Tall, open woodland with E. camaldulensis, Themeda triandra, Corymbia and Acacia siberica Cymbopogon ambiguous, Triodia over short grasses and forbs; on longiceps floodplains and at the base of ranges. Sonder: So1 Cuestas; on moderately 1 Hummock (Triodia basedowii, Triodia pungens, Acacia Bold rocky to steeply dipping strata; Triodia pungens) grassland with spondylophylla, Acacia monticola, hills, low slightly bevelled, sparse shrubs and low trees. Grevillea wickhamii, Eremophila latrobei rugged So3 weathered crests. Rock 1 Hummock (Triodia basedowii, Acacia aneura, Senna artemisioides country and faces and structural Triodia pungens) grassland with ssp. helmsii, Triodia pungens benches; gullied sparse shrubs and low trees.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-6

\ Environmental Impact Statement Land System Land Unit Land Unit Description Vegetation Fine Description Dominant Species community narrow escarpments and dip plains. slopes dissected by parallel V-shaped valleys. So5 Major channels up to 3 6 Sparse low Acacia woodland Acacia aneura, Acacia kempeana, m deep with adjacent over hummock grasses. Corymbia opaca, Triodia pungens narrow sandy flats. 7 Eucalyptus camaldulensis tall Acacia aneura, Acacia kempeana, woodland over sparse grasses in Corymbia opaca, Triodia pungens drainage channels and rocky creek beds. Unca: Uc1 Interfluves up to 1 km 2 Sparse, low Acacia siberica Acacia aneura, Senna artemisioides Gently wide; slightly rounded shrubland over short grasses and oligophylla, Atalaya hemiglauca, undulating stony crests and steeper forbs. Aristida holathera, Enneapogon stony plains. margins with rounded polyphyllus valley heads 3 Acacia estrophiolata tall, open Acacia estrophiolata, Acacia aneura, woodland over short grasses Acacia tetragonophylla, Pterocaulon with sparse shrubs. sphacelatum, Cenchrus ciliaris, Themeda triandra 5 Tall, open woodland with Acacia estrophiolata, Corymbia Corymbia and Acacia siberica opaca, Acacia aneura, Corymbia over short grasses and forbs; on apparrerinja, Atalaya hemiglauca, floodplains and at the base of Senna artemisioides oligophylla, Aristida ranges. holathera, Eragrostis eriopoda Uc4 Low hills. 2 Sparse, low Acacia siberica Acacia siberica, Acacia aneura, shrubland over short grasses and Atalaya hemiglauca, Enneapogon forbs. polyphyllus, Aristida holathera 5 Tall, open woodland with Acacia estrophiolata, Corymbia Corymbia and Acacia siberica opaca, Acacia aneura, Corymbia over short grasses and forbs; on apparrerinja, Atalaya hemiglauca, floodplains and at the base of Senna, artemisioides oligophylla, ranges. Aristida holathera, Eragrostis eriopoda

3.2-7 Jervois Base Metal Project

Figure 3.2-1 Land units

3.2-8 Jervois Base Metal Project

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Figure 3.2-2 Vegetation communities

3.2-9 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Conservation significant vegetation communities An assessment of conservation significance of a site’s vegetation types can be made with reference to: • The Northern Territory Land Clearing Guidelines (NT NREAS, 2010) for vegetation regarded as “sensitive” to disturbance vegetation types (i.e. rainforest, vine thicket, closed forest or riparian vegetation, mangroves, monsoon vine forest, sand sheet heath and vegetation containing large trees with hollows suitable for fauna). • The Supplement to the NT Parks and Wildlife Conservation Masterplan (Baker, 2005) for bioregional conservation significance • Essential habitats listed under the TPWC Act or ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act. • Previous area specific assessments by government or information to be found in the scientific literature.

A summary of significant vegetation communities within the Project area is presented in Table 3.2-3.

Table 3.2-3 Significant vegetation communities located in the Project area Significant value Description Present in Project area Area (ha) Sensitive vegetation Trees containing Central area of the 2.56 ha large trees with Project area near hollows suitable for the southern end of fauna the proposed tailings dam. Bioregional Within the Jervois The majority of the 3,350 ha Conservation Range – site of Project area (88%) is Significance botanical mapped within this significance (SoBS) area. Essential habitat n/a No 0 ha (TPWC Act) TEC (EPBC Act) n/a No 0 ha Identified as n/a No 0 ha significant in previous government assessment

Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) Threatened ecological communities (TECs) are recognised as Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) protected under the EPBC Act. No listed threatened ecological communities were identified by the desktop study within the Project area and surveys did not locate any TEC on the ground.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-10

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Figure 3.2-3 Floristic Values of Conservation Significance 3.2-11 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

3.2.2.2 Flora species

General description A total of 196 flora species were identified from 42 families during the 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2018 surveys (Low Ecological Services P/L, 2018). These current results included two species listed as near threatened under the TPWC Act and six introduced species. The number of flora species recorded varied between on-ground surveys with the highest number recorded in September 2017 (n= 131). This is likely due to good rains prior to the survey with 53.6 mm of rainfall in July 2017, and an increased survey effort with 11 sites visited in 2017 compared with 9 sites in the 2012 and 2013 on- ground surveys.

Threatened species The NT Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (TPWC Act) is “an Act to make provision for and in relation to the establishment of Territory Parks and other Parks and Reserves, and the study, protection, conservation and sustainable utilisation of wildlife”. Under the TPWC Act, all threatened species are protected wildlife. Within a 20 km radius of the Project area, the NT Flora Atlas (2015) database identified no threatened species listed under the EPBC Act and six species listed under the TPWC Act. Targeted searches were conducted for flora species of conservation significance listed under the TPWC Act that were identified in database searches as potentially occurring within the Project area: • Desert fuchsia (Eremophila cordatisepala) • Bolboschoenus caldwellii • Sauropus rigens; and • Sida intricate.

No threatened flora species listed under the EPBC Act were recorded in the Project during on ground surveys in 1999, 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2018. Two flora species listed as near threatened under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (TPWC Act), Eremophila cordatisepala and Sauropus rigens, were recorded during on-ground surveys (Figure 3.2-3). The Eremophila cordatisepala in the Project Area is the western most population of the species distribution in the Channel Country bioregion. One species listed as endangered under the TPWC act, Bolboschoenus caldwellii, has a low- moderate likelihood of occurring in the Project area.

Two additional species listed as data deficient under the TPWC Act have a high likelihood of occurring in the Project area; Fimbristylis velata and Sida sp. Hale River; due to the proximity of nearby records and the presence of potential habitat. Both species are associated with moist areas, such as waterway or wetlands, and their presence or absence may be dependent on the availability of water. One additional species listed as data deficient under the TPWC Act has a low likelihood of occurring in the Project area; Amaranthus centralis, has a low likelihood of occurring in the Project area.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-12

Project Overview

Table 3.2-4 Threatened and conservation significant flora species identified as occurring or potentially occurring within a 20 km radius of the Project area Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas Amaranthus centralis - DD Native to NT and recorded from several Unlikely: There is one record at Anatye X bioregions: Burt Plain, Central Ranges, on the side of the Plenty Highway, Channel Country, Finke, MacDonnell approximately 15 km south-east of the Ranges, Pilbara, Simpson Strzelecki Project area. Given the dry and open Dunefields and Tanami. Occurs on fertile sparse shrubland habitats of the Project alluvial plains and valleys, sandplains, area, the species is considered unlikely to rocky or gravelly hills or rises composed of occur. neutral, acidic or basic rocks, and intermittent watercourses and run-on areas (Northern Territory Herbarium, 2013).

Bolboschoenus caldwellii - E In the NT, B. caldwellii is only known from Possible: The record of B. caldwellii on X five isolated populations, all ephemeral Jervois Station is 3.4 km west of the wetland areas. One site within Finke Gorge Project area at Valley bore and is dated National Park, two sites south of Finke 1985. It has not been confirmed whether Gorge, Ilparpa swamp sewerage outflow this population still exists. The desktop and at a bore overflow on Jervois Station survey found there may be suitable (White, Plant species and sites of botanical habitat for the species in the vicinity of significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. the Jervois Dam and at operational bore Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000). The overflow areas. If present, the species Finke Gorge National Park population is may only be detected after rains when now presumed extinct (Kerrigan, 2006). the soil is moist. Given the availability of According to (Kerrigan, 2006), the suitable habitat and its ephemeral and populations of B. caldwellii on Jervois disjunct distribution in the NT, there is a Station and at Ilparpa Swamp are low likelihood of the species occurring in presumably from propagules transported

3.2-13 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas by birds and are considered ephemeral ephemeral wetland areas in the Project populations expected to disappear as area. availability of water ceases. The species occurs in damp soils adjacent to permanent or semi-permanent water (Kerrigan, 2006).

Fimbristylis velata - DD Fimbristylis velata flowers in spring-summer Likely: This species has been recorded X and grows in moist areas. Occurs in all within the Project area in the Sonder land States of Australia except Tasmania system. (Northern Territory Government, 2018). Sida sp. Hale River - DD Native to the Northern Territory and known Likely: This species has been recorded in X from Burt Plain, Channel Country and Channel Country and appropriate MacDonnell Ranges bioregions. Occurs habitat occurs in the Project area. near watercourses on sheltered rocky or gravelly slopes composed of neutral, acidic or basic rocks (Northern Territory Government, 2018).

Sida intricata - NT The species is widespread across all states Likely: The closest record of S. intricata X of mainland Australia but is less common in identified in the NT Herbarium database NT (Australian Virtual Herbarium, 2017). The extract is approximately 13 km north-east species occurs across a wide range of of the Project area, dated 1957. This habitats (Atlas of Living Australia, 2017). record is an outlier from the main population occurring around Alice Springs. Due to the close proximity of the record in the NT Herbarium extract and

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-14

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas the fact that the species occurs in a wide variety of habitats, there is a high likelihood of S. intricata occurring in the Project area.

Sauropus rigens - NT The species is described as rare in the NT Known: The database search identified X (White, Plant species and sites of botanical two records of S. rigens within the 20 km significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. buffer of the Project area. These are 6 km Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000)and and 14 km north, both within the Jervois occurs in the Channel Country Bioregion Range. Recorded on skeletal soils on and the MacDonnell Ranges Bioregion. steep sandstone ranges and slopes of Sauropus rigens occurs on rocky sandstone the Jervois Range in 2017 and 2018. ranges or hills, typically on dry steep slopes with Acacia sp. holey trunk or with Acacia georginae, A. cyperophylla and A. sibirica as overstorey dominants (Northern Territory Herbarium, 2013). Eremophila cordatisepala - NT The species is endemic to the channel Known: The NT Herbarium database X country in QLD and NT. The species has identified a record of E. cordatisepala 6 been found widely distributed in the km north of the Project Area in the Jervois calcareous soils north of the Jervois range range. Records within the vicinity of the at the south of the Project area. Jervois Range are the western distribution limit of this species (White, Plant species and sites of botanical significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000). Recorded on undulating calcareous plains with low

3.2-15 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas open woodland in 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2018.

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-16

Project Overview

Taxa of bioregional significance Taxa of bioregional significance for the Channel Country bioregion (in which the Project is located) is listed for Jervois Range ‘Sites of Botanical Significance’ (White, Albracht, Daguid, Latz, & Hamilton, 2000). These include:

• Abutilon cryptopetalum (apparently rare and only known in Channel Country from this site) • Chrysopogon pallidus (disjunct and only known in Channel Country from this site); and • Pandorea doratoxylon (eastern range limit and only known in Channel Country from this site).

None of these bioregionally significant species were located in the Project area during field surveys.

Other taxa only known in Channel Country bioregion (NT portion) from Jervois Range (White, Albracht, Daguid, Latz, & Hamilton, 2000), include:

• Acacia monticola • Acacia spondylophylla • Cheilanthes brownii • Cyperus cunninghamii • Eragrostis cumingii • Eremophila duttonii • Eucalyptus intertexta • Eucalyptus normantonensis • Ficus brachypoda • Glossostigma diandrum • Grevillea wickhamii subsp. aprica • Lysiana subfalcata • Olearia stuartii • Schoenoplectus litoralis • Sida ammophila; and • Tribulus macrocarpus.

Of the above listed taxa that are limited to the Jervois Range within the Channel Country, three species were noted in the Project area: Acacia monticola, Acacia spondylophylla and Eragrostis cumingii. These species are found in abundance in other bioregions.

Introduced flora The Weeds Management Act 2001 is administered by the NT Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The objective of the Weeds Management Act is to prevent the spread of weeds within, into and out of the NT and to ensure that the management of weeds is an integral component of land management. The Act is linked to the Northern Territory Weeds Management Strategy 1996- 2005, which led to a series of Statutory Plans being developed for each declared weed. ‘Declared weeds’ are grouped into three categories: • Class A - weeds to be eradicated • Class B - weeds which growth and spread must be controlled; and • Class C -weeds not to be introduced to the Territory. 3.2-17 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Weeds of National Significance (WoNS) are declared based on invasiveness, potential for spread, and environmental, social and economic impacts. Strategic plans for control of WoNS are developed as a result of their declaration, which define responsibilities and identifies strategies and actions to control the species. Landholders and managers are ultimately responsible for managing WoNS, and the state/territory government is responsible for overall legislation and administration (DSEWPC, 2012) Six introduced flora species were recorded during the on-ground surveys, including: • Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) • Coral cactus (Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata) – WoNS, Class A & C • Couch grass (Cynodon dactylon) • Spiked Malvastrum (Malvastrum americanum) • Athel pine (Tamarix aphylla) – WoNS, Class A & B; and • Prickly mimosa (Vachellia farnesiana).

Some of these species were widespread in the Project area, like buffel grass. Other species were more restricted in distribution. Tamarix aphylla (athel pine) were found around the Jervois Dam and is a Weed of National Significance (WoNS) and declared Class A (to be eradicated) and Class C (not to be introduced to the NT) weed in the NT. Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata (coral cactus) was found around the old mine village and is a WoNS and declared a Class A weed in the NT. This population of coral cactus has since undergone a control program and only one dead specimen and a number of juvenile specimens were located on the Project area in 2017 surveys. In 2018 surveys no new specimens were located and it appears that the control program has been successful.

3.2.2.2.1 Floristic values of conservation significance

Sites of Conservation Significance (SoCS) SoCS are sites identified as important sites for biodiversity that need protecting. In the Northern Territory (NT) there have been 67 sites identified as the most important sites for biodiversity conservation that need further protecting. There are no SoCS within 20 km of the Project area.

Sites of Botanical Significance (SoBS) SoBS are defined as areas that have botanical features distinguishing them from the surrounding landscape, and that are important for general plant conservation but specifically for the association of species in the area (White, Plant species and sites of botanical significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000). The majority (88%) of the Project area exists within the Jervois Range SoBS. The Jervois Range SoBS encompasses the isolated sandstone and siltstone Jervois 2 Range and surrounding footslopes, an area of approximately 274km (White, Plant species and sites of botanical significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000).

Known taxa of NT significance in this bioregion include Bolboschoenus caldwellii, Eremophila cordatisepala, Fimbristylis velata and, Sauropus rigens, three of which species require long term soil moisture to survive (White, Plant species and sites of botanical significance. Volume 1: Significant sites. Part 1: Sites of significance,, 2000). Land use within this SoBS is Pastoral - Jervois Station (85% of the Jervois Range SoBS) and Lucy Creek Station (14% of Jervois Range SoBS). The Jervois SoBS is defined

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-18

\ Environmental Impact Statement mainly on the outlier presence of several species of ground plants, two dependent on wetland situations, and two, primarily data deficient species, at the extreme of their ranges.

3.2.2.3 Fauna habitat The Project area, which is estimated at 3,800 ha (a 970 ha footprint of which approximately 163 ha is previously disturbed by historic mining activity), contains areas of remnant vegetation as well as some areas of historic disturbance (i.e. for previous mining activities). Based on survey results, eight refined vegetation communities have been mapped over the entire Project area (refer to Section 4.1: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation). Fauna distribution and abundance is influenced by species specific responses to broad habitat types, rather than to refined vegetation communities. For the purposes of this report, the eight refined vegetation communities have been grouped into six broad habitat types based on geology, vegetation structure and complexity, and characteristic species, which translate into differences in the nature and availability of resources relevant to fauna. The six broad habitat types have been extracted from Figure 3.2-4 and are outlined in Table 3.2-5. Important congregations of fauna or sites for fauna include locations with: • Seasonal feeding/roosting congregations of migrant species • Colonies of roosting species • Breeding colonies • Caves • Breeding areas for species with known highly specific breeding area requirements e.g. Gouldian finches; and • Isolated and possibly spatially rare habitat resources important to fauna or of importance to fauna at a particular time of year or the life cycle e.g. isolated sources of permanent water, large boulder piles, escarpments. Jervois Dam is an isolated source of permanent water that is a potentially significant resource for fauna species in the regional area.

3.2-19 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Table 3.2-5 Broad Habitat Types in the Project area Broad Habitat Type Vegetation Refined Vegetation Amount in Community Communities Project area (ha) Hummock grassland 1 Hummock (Triodia basedowii, 345.7 Triodia pungens) grassland with sparse shrubs and low trees (VC1). Low Acacia sp. 2, 6, 8 Sparse, low Acacia siberica 1,332.6 shrubland shrubland over short grasses and forbs (VC2).

Sparse low Acacia woodland over hummock grasses (VC6).

Acacia georginae (Gidgee) dominated woodland. Sparse grass and forb understorey (VC8). Tall Acacia sp. 3, 4 Acacia estrophiolata tall, open 151.3 woodland woodland over short grasses with sparse shrubs (VC3).

Tall Acacia aneura woodland over short grasses in fire protected valleys and upper reaches of drainage lines (VC4). SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-20

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Broad Habitat Type Vegetation Refined Vegetation Amount in Community Communities Project area (ha) Tall Corymbia sp. and 5 Tall, open woodland with 1,843 Acacia sp. woodland Corymbia and Acacia siberica over short grasses and forbs; on floodplains and at the base of ranges (VC5). Tall Eucalyptus sp. 7 Eucalyptus camaldulensis tall 116.5 woodland on woodland over sparse grasses in drainage lines drainage channels and rocky creek beds (VC7). Jervois Dam 7 A large artificial lake on Unca 6.7 Creek

3.2-21 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Figure 3.2-4 Refined Vegetation Communities Source: Low Ecological Services, 2018

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-22

\ Environmental Impact Statement

3.2.2.4 Fauna

General description A total of 118 fauna species have been recorded during the 1999, 2012, 2013 and 2017 surveys; 79 birds, 22 mammals, 14 reptiles and three amphibians (Low Ecological Services P/L, 2018). Invertebrates including wolf spiders, huntsman spiders, scorpions, centipedes, snails and cockroaches were not recorded in a systematic way during the surveys and have not been included in the report. There were 79 species of native birds recorded during the surveys. Numbers of bird species recorded during the surveys varied (October 1999 n=35, July 2012 n=48, March 2013 n=29, September 2017 n=43 and May 2018 n=30) and was particularly low in the March 2013 survey (n= 29). This may have been due low rainfall leading up the survey resulting in dry conditions as plant stress was visible, and hot conditions during the survey. There was one species of conservation significance recorded in the Project area, emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) which is listed as Near Threatened under the TPWC Act.

There were 22 species of mammals recorded during the surveys, including four exotic species (i.e. cow, cat, house mouse and rabbit). This also includes six species of bat recorded with bat detectors. The number of mammals caught was relatively consistent throughout the surveys (October 1999 n=7, July 2012 n=8, March 2013 n=6, September 2017 n=8 and May 2018 n=2). There was one species of conservation significance recorded in the Project area, long-haired rat (Rattus villosissimus) which is listed as Near Threatened under the TPWC Act.

Fourteen species of reptile were recorded from the Project area during surveys, including three species of snake. Fewer reptiles were recorded during surveys in cooler months months (October 1999 n=6, July 2012 n=4, March 2013 n= 5, September 2017 n=3 and May 2018 n=1). There were no exotic or conservation significant reptiles detected.

Three amphibian species were recorded from the Project area during surveys; including two near the Jervois Dam during the October 1999 (Limnodynastes spenceri (Spencer’s burrowing frog) and Litoria rubella (desert tree frog)) and another one Cyclorana cultripes (burrowing frog) in May 2018. There was good rain leading up to the October 1999 survey and the frogs were active due to rain overnight during the survey. Litoria rubella was observed at the camp during the September 2017 field survey. There were no exotic or conservation significant amphibians detected.

Introduced fauna Ten introduced fauna species were identified by the EPBC PMST as occurring or potentially occurring within 20 km of the Project area Table 3.2-6. There are no records of introduced fauna within a 20 km radius of the Project area in the NT Fauna Atlas database. This is likely due to the lack of fauna records in the region. Four introduced fauna species were recorded during the on-ground surveys. These are Bos taurus (domestic cattle), Mus musculus (house mouse), Oryctolagus cuniculus (rabbit) and Felis catus (feral cat). Domestic cattle are widespread across the Project area as the land use is pastoral. House mice were also widespread across the Project area. House mice were caught in Elliott traps in all surveys and observed in the camp kitchen. Two rabbits were observed during spotlighting in the September 2017 survey. Camel, donkeys and horses are known to be in the area (R Lennartz, pers comm, 2017).

3.2-23 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Table 3.2-6 Introduced fauna species occurring or potentially occurring in the Project area Scientific name Common name PMST On-ground Bos taurus Cow X X Canis lupis familiaris Dog X Camelus Camel X dromedaries Equus asinus Donkey X Equus caballus Horse X Felis cattus Cat X X Mus musculus House mouse X X Oryctolagus Rabbit X X cuniculus Sus scrofa Pig X Vulpes vulpes Fox X

Conservation significant fauna species A database search of the EPBC PMST and the NT Fauna Atlas identified nine threatened fauna species listed under the EPBC Act as occurring or potentially occurring within 20 km of the Project area. The NT Fauna Atlas database (2015) identified an additional 9 species of conservation significance occurring within 20 km of the project area. Fauna species listed under the EPBC Act or TPWC Act and identified in the desktop survey as potentially occurring in the Project area are discussed in Table 3.2- 7. Surveys recorded two species of conservation significance; Dromaius novaehollandiae (emu) and Rattus villosissimus (long-haired rat). Another two of these species, Macrotis lagotis (greater bilby) and Isoodon auratus (golden bandicoot), are considered regionally extinct.

Migratory species The EPBC PMST and NT Fauna Atlas identified 12 species listed as migratory as occurring or potentially occurring within 20 km of the Project area (Table 3.2-8). The Jervois Dam provides habitat for migratory aquatic or wading species during the migration period, when there is water in the dam. No listed migratory species were recorded during surveys, however, the following species were considered as likely or potentially occurring when conditions are suitable: • Fork-tailed swift (Apus pacificus) • Sharp-tailed sandpiper (Calidris acuminata) • Caspian tern (Hydroprogne caspia) • Glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) • Common sandpiper (Tringa hypoleucus); and • Common greenshank (Tringa nebularia).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-24

Project Overview

Table 3.2-7 Threatened and conservation significant fauna species identified as occurring or potentially occurring within a 20 km radius of the Project area Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas Birds Australian bustard NT Widely distributed across inland Australia, Likely: Appropriate habitat in the Project X Ardeotis australis where it is still common away from area, associated with all habitat types settlement. Inhabits grasslands, spinifex, present. Records within 20km. open scrublands, grassy woodlands, sandhills, pastoral lands, burned ground, and occasionally crops and airfields (Pizzey & Knight, 2012).

Curlew sandpiper CE VU Inhabits coastal and brackish lagoons, Potential: Suitable habitat exists at the X Calidris ferruginea intertidal mud and sand flats, estuaries, Jervois Dam, but there are no nearby saltmarshes and occasionally inland records. freshwater wetlands (Ward, 2012). The closest record of this species to the Project area is 265 km south-west of the Project area at the Alice Springs wastewater treatment plant.

Red-tailed black cockatoo NT Inhabits tall open forests, woodlands, Likely: Appropriate habitat in the Project X (Central Australian grasslands, scrublands, floodplains, river area, associated with “Tall Corymbia sp. populations) margins, E. camaldulensis along and Acacia sp. woodland” and “Tall Calyptorhynchus banksii watercourses and wetlands (Pizzey & Eucalyptus sp. woodland on drainage samueli Knight, 2012). lines”. Records within 20km.

Grey honeyeater DD Sparsely distributed across inland Australia Likely: Appropriate habitat in the Project X Conopophila whitei from north east SA west through the area, associated with “Tall Acacia sp. 3.2-25 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas Pilbara in WA and north to Frewena and woodland” and “Tall Corymbia sp. and Wave Hill, NT. Inhabits mature mulga Acacia sp. woodland”. Records within 12 woodland, open mulga with spinifex, tall km in similar land system. open acacia scrubland and sandhills with red mulga, canegrass, beefwood and desert bloodwood (Pizzey & Knight, 2012).

Emu NT Was widely distributed across the Known: Emu tracks were identified near X Dromaius novaehollandiae Australian mainland although sparsely in the old tailings dam in 2017 and the the NT, but is now mostly absent from species is likely to use all habitat types. closely settled areas. Inhabits plains, scrublands, open woodlands, coastal heaths, alpine pastures, semi-deserts, margins of lakes, and pastoral and cereal growing areas (Pizzey & Knight, 2012).

Red Goshawk VU VU The species is generally confined to tall Unlikely: Previous surveys found potential X Erythrotriorchis radiatus wooded areas in the narrow coastal and but low quality habitat for the species in sub-coastal strip in northern Australia from the Jervois Dam seepage area. There Kimberly (WA) across NT and QLD to are no nearby records. northern NSW, though sparse throughout its range (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018). However, there are some recent, isolated records in Central Australia (Debus, 2012). he preferred habitat is tall open eucalypt forest and riparian areas (Woinarski, 2006).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-26

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas

Square-tailed kite NT Inhabits heathlands, woodlands, forests, Potential: Appropriate habitat in the X Lophoictinia isura tropical and subtropical rainforests, Project area, associated with “Tall timbered watercourses, and hills and Corymbia sp. and Acacia sp. woodland” gorges across much of Australia except and “Tall Eucalyptus sp. woodland on the central and inland south (Pizzey & drainage lines”. The species has been Knight, 2012). recorded within the Project area in the Bond Springs land system.

Plains wanderer CE DD Known from south-eastern Australia, Unlikely: The Project area is out of the X Pedionomus torquatus particularly in the Riverina, with some typical range and there is no potential isolated records in SA and inland QLD. The habitat. preferred habitat is sparse low grasslands, typically with 50% bare ground and most vegetation under 5 cm in heigh (Woinarski & Ward, 2016) t.

Night parrot EN CE Restricted to arid and semi-arid Australia. Unlikely: The Project area is out of the X Pezoporus occidentalis Records of P. occidentalis in western QLD, typical range and there is no potential northern WA and southern NT are from habitat. spinifex (Triodia sp.) hummock grasslands in stony or sandy areas (Pavey, 2006).

Australian Painted Snipe EN VU In the NT, R. australis has been recorded on Likely: A single female R. australis has X X Rostratula australis the Barkly Tablelands, at Lake Woods and been recorded in March 2012 (not part Sturt Plateau, but may occur also in the of this survey) at the Jervois Dam. northern NT on any shallow ephemeral

3.2-27 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas wetlands in central or southern NT (Taylor, Chatto, & Woinarski, 2013).

Freckled duck NT Mainly distributed across south east and Potential: The Jervois Dam represents X Stictonetta naevosa south west of Australia, but occurs as a potential habitat and there are records vagrant elsewhere in Australia. The species within 5km. generally inhabits permanent freshwater swamps and creeks, and generally rests in dense cover such as bullrushes, lignum or tea-tree (Pizzey & Knight, 2012).

Mammals Crest-tailed mulgara VU VU In the southern NT, D. cristicauda inhabits Unlikely: The Project area is out of the X Dasycercus cristicauda the slopes and crests of sandridges with a typical range and there is no potential high cover of Triodia basedowii and a habitat. relatively high abundance of ephemeral plant species with large seed crops (Pavey, 2011).

Black-footed rock wallaby VU NT The distribution spans from the Davenport Potential: There is a small area of X Petrogale lateralis and Murchison Ranges in the north, east to potentially suitable habitat in the Jervois MacDonnell Ranges race the Jervois Range, west to the WA border Range in the far north-western corner of and south to the SA border. Geological the lease. The nearest record is 45km features favoured are steep slopes, east. cuestas, deep gorges and boulder scree slopes, which are common in quartzite ranges (Gibson, 2000).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-28

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas

Golden bandicoot VU EN Now known from only one location, in the Locally extinct X X Isoodon auratus NT, Marchinbar Island in the Wessel chain, north-eastern Arnhem Land (Fisher & Woinarski, 1994).

Long-haired rat NT Occurs in central and northern Australia in Known: An abandoned nest was located X Rattus villosissimus core cracking clay areas during dry in the Project area and may have been periods, but across a much larger area used during population irruptions. The during irruptions following high rainfall species has a wide habitat association (Woinarski & Aplin, 2017). during period of irruption and could potentially use any of the habitat types in the Project area.

Greater bilby VU VU The species occurs in a wide variety of Locally extinct X X Macrotis lagotis habitats that can be classified into three major groups; sparse grassland/forbland on uplands and hills with a low fire frequency, mulga scrub/ woodlands on ridges and rises with an infrequent year) fire interval and hummock grassland/ mixed shrub or woodland steppe on plains and alluvial areas with a high (4-10 year) fire frequency (Southgate, 1990).

3.2-29 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas

Common brushtail possum EN This species occurs in isolated populations Unlikely: The Project area is out of the X (Central Australian in southern NT. It is restricted to riverine typical range and there is no potential population) habitat, close to rocky outcrops and moist habitat. Trichosurus vulpecula gullies within ranges or rocky slopes (Pavey vulpecula & Ward, 2012).

Spectacled hare wallaby NT Patchily distributed in northern WA and Unlikely: The Project area is out of the X Lagorchestes conspicillatus central-northern NT, and widespread in typical range and there is no potential areas northern Queensland from Cape habitat. York to Rockhampton. Inhabits open forests, open woodland, tall shrublands, and tussock and hummock grasslands, and regularly feeds in areas regenerating after fire (Winter, Woinarski, & Burbidge, 2016).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-30

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Table 3.2-8 Migratory species identified as occurring or potentially occurring within a 20 km radius of the Project area Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas Fork-tailed swift Mi - Low to very high airspace over varied Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X X Apus pacificus habitat, rainforest to semi-desert, most for the species, but there are nearby active just ahead of summer storm fronts records. (Morcombe, 2003).

Sharp-tailed sandpiper Mi - In Queensland, they are recorded in most Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X X Calidris acuminata regions, being widespread along much of for the species, but there are nearby the coast and are very sparsely scattered records. inland, particularly in central and south- western regions (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Curlew sandpiper Mi V Occur on intertidal mudflats in sheltered Unlikely: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Calidris ferruginea coastal areas, such as estuaries, bays, for the species, and there are no nearby inlets and lagoons, and also around non- records. tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons near the coast, and ponds in saltworks and sewage farms. They are also recorded inland, though less often, including around ephemeral and permanent lakes, dams, waterholes and bore drains, usually with bare edges of mud or sand. They occur in both fresh and brackish waters (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

3.2-31 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas Oriental plover Mi - It appears that the entire global Unlikely: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Charadrius veredus population spends the non-breeding for the species, and there are no nearby season in northern Australia, in both records. coastal and inland areas. Thereafter they usually inhabit flat, open, semi-arid or arid grasslands, where the grass is short and sparse, and interspersed with hard, bare ground, such as claypans, dry paddocks, playing fields, lawns and cattle camps (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Oriental pratincole Mi - Non-breeding migrant to Australia. Within Unlikely: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Glareola maldivarum Australia the Oriental Pratincole is for the species, and there are no nearby widespread in northern areas. It is also records. widespread but scattered inland, mostly north of 20° S. Usually inhabits open plains, floodplains or short grassland (including farmland or airstrips), often with extensive bare areas and near terrestrial wetlands (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Caspian tern Mi - Mostly found in sheltered coastal Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Hydroprogne caspia embayments (harbours, lagoons, inlets, for the species, but there are nearby bays, estuaries and river deltas) and those records. with sandy or muddy margins are

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-32

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas preferred. They also occur on near-coastal or inland terrestrial wetlands that are either fresh or saline, especially lakes (including ephemeral lakes), waterholes, reservoirs, rivers and creeks. They also use artificial wetlands, including reservoirs, sewage ponds and saltworks (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Barn swallow Mi - In Australia, the Barn Swallow is recorded in Unlikely: habitat is arid and not suitable X Hirundo rustica open country in coastal lowlands, often for the species, and there are no nearby near water, towns and cities. Birds are records. often sighted perched on overhead wires, and also in or over freshwater wetlands, paperbark Melaleuca woodland, mesophyll shrub thickets and tussock grassland (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Grey wagtail Mi - Non-breeding summer visitor to northern Unlikely: habitat is arid and not suitable X Motacilla cinerea Australia. Prefers running water in disused for the species, and there are no nearby quarries, sandy or rocky escarpments, records. rainforests, sewage ponds, ploughed fields and airfields (Morcombe, 2003).

Yellow wagtail MI - Open habitats, often near water; it is Unlikely: habitat is arid and not suitable X Motacilla flava usually coastal (Morcombe, 2003). for the species, and there are no nearby records. 3.2-33 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

Scientific name Status Preferred habitat Likelihood of occurrence in Project area Source

EPBC Act EPBC TPWA PMST NT Flora Atlas

Glossy ibis Mi - Fresh water marshes at the edges of lakes Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Plegadis falcinellus and rivers, lagoons, flood-plains, wet for the species, but there are nearby meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage records. ponds, rice-fields and cultivated areas under irrigation. The species is occasionally found in coastal locations such as estuaries, deltas, saltmarshes and coastal lagoons (Morcombe, 2003).

Common sandpiper Mi - Non-breeding migrant found along all Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X X Tringa hypoleucus coastlines of Australia and in many areas for the species, but there are nearby inland. The population when in Australia is records. concentrated in northern and western Australia in a range of coastal wetlands (Department of the Environment (DotE), 2018).

Common greenshank Mi - Diverse inland and coastal areas; away Potential: habitat is arid and sub-optimal X Tringa nebularia from the coast uses both permanent and for the species, but there are nearby temporary wetlands – billabongs, swamps, records. lakes, floodplains, flooded irrigated crops, sewage farms and saltworks ponds; prefers wet and flooded mud and clay rather than sand (Morcombe, 2003).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-34

Project Overview

3.2.2.5 Aquatic Ecosystems The Jervois Project area is in the upper catchment of the Hay River Basin, which ultimately feeds into Lake Eyre in the north of South Australia. The drainage lines that intersect the Project area are Unca Creek and a major tributary of Unca Creek. Unca Creek originates about nine kilometres upstream of the Project and joins Arthur Creek approximately 45 km southeast of the Project. Unca Creek has a catchment area of 21.8 km2 upstream of the Project area, with 17.1 km2 (78%) of this catchment being captured in Jervois Dam within the Project area. Downstream of Jervois Dam, the Unca Creek channel runs in an easterly direction through the northern portion of the Project area before turning southeast and crossing Lucy Creek Access Road.

A tributary of Unca Creek runs east through the southern portion of the Project area before joining the main creek channel approximately 1.5 km east of Lucy Creek Access Road. The southern Unca Creek tributary has a catchment area of 21.9 km2 upstream of the Unca Creek confluence.

Jervois Dam currently has a storage capacity of 279 ML below the existing spillway level (367.38 mAHD), and a catchment area of approximately 17.1km2. It was constructed for previous mining operations and is the largest and most permanent surface water body in the Jervois Region. The structural stability of the existing dam wall is unknown. It appears that there is significant leakage through the dam wall, as there is strong vegetation growth and signs of sodden ground along the southern side of the valley downstream of the dam wall. The dam water is reported to be in excellent condition apart from a probable reduction in original capacity due to silting and a water quality analysis showed that the water in the dam was fresh and close to rainwater in quality (Knight Piesold Consulting, 2012).

The Unca Creek catchment upstream of Jervois Dam is steep and rocky, with poorly defined, sandy drainage features located along valley floors. Downstream of Jervois Dam, the catchment becomes flat and open, with wide expanses of sandy flats and spinifex grass, with scattered vegetation along the creek and drainage feature channels. Aquatic ecosystems in the Project area and surround are ephemeral, as watercourses only contain water following good rainfall. There are no records of aquatic fauna, such as fish or freshwater invertebrates, in the NT Fauna Atlas within a 20 km buffer of the Project area. However, aquatic systems in arid Australia, particularly those not within National Parks, are understudied. It is highly likely that fish and aquatic invertebrates will occur in the watercourses within or surrounding the Project area following good rainfall. Burrows of fresh water land crabs, likely Holothuisiana transversa, were found in nearby Arthur Creek by Low and Strong (Low Ecological Services, 1985).

Water quality Water quality at the Project area is characterised (WRM Water & Environment P/L, 2018) as follows: • Across the Project area, pH is slightly acidic, while salinities (ECs) are low. • Water stored in Jervois Dam has low turbidity as well as low concentrations of TSS, TDS and metals. This was expected as the catchment upstream of the dam is located outside of the

3.2-35 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

mineralised region of the Project area. Water quality immediately downstream of Jervois Dam (monitoring sites JSW02 and JSW06) is consistent with the observed water quality in the dam. • In the undisturbed areas along the Unca Creek Tributary (monitoring sites JSW04, JSW05, JSW07 and JSW08), turbidity is relatively high, while concentrations of TSS and metals are also relatively high. The catchment upstream of these monitoring sites is located within in the mineralised region of the Project area. This likely resulted in the elevated metal concentrations observed here despite the absence of mining disturbance in the contributing catchment. • Downstream of the Project area (monitoring sites JSW01, JSW09 and JSW10), contaminant concentrations are consistent with those observed in the undisturbed areas along the Unca Creek Tributary. Runoff from the mineralised zone within the Project area reports to these monitoring sites. It is possible that runoff from existing mining disturbance in the catchment of Unca Creek and its tributary may have also contributed to the elevated contaminant concentrations observed here. • Based on the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) guideline, the condition of the watercourses in the vicinity of the Project is considered as Condition 2: slightly to moderately disturbed ecosystem. The adopted surface water quality indicators are sourced from the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) guideline. As shown in Table 3.2-9, the observed water quality parameters are within the water quality objective (WQO) limits for pH, EC, TDS, sulphate, nitrate and magnesium. However, the observed turbidity is significantly higher than the WQO limit.

Table 3.2-9 Adopted surface water quality objectives (WQOs) for the Project, and comparison with observed water quality data

Adopted Group A Parameter Abbreviation Units observed water WQO value a quality (80%ile)i

Non-metallic indicators

pH pH pH units 6.0 - 8.5 b 7.1

Electrical conductivity EC μS/cm 5,970 c 42

Total dissolved solids TDS mg/L 4,000 c 30

Total suspended solids TSS mg/L 380 k 3,850

Turbidity Turbidity NTU 50 d 1,160

Dissolved oxygen DO % saturation 90 e n/a

Sulphate SO4 mg/L 1,000 f 1.3

Nitrate NO3 mg/L 0.7 0.240

Metals and metalloids (filtered, unless otherwise stated)

Aluminium Al μg/L 55 <10 (total) j

Arsenic As μg/L 24 59.2 (total) j

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-36

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Adopted Group A Parameter Abbreviation Units observed water WQO value a quality (80%ile)i

Cadmium Cd μg/L 0.2 54 (total) j

Copper Cu μg/L 1.4 92 (total) j

Iron Fe μg/L 300 g 232 (total) j

Lead Pb μg/L 3.4 44 (total) j

Magnesium Mg mg/L 2,000 h 0.9

Manganese Mn μg/L 1,900 661 (total) j

Mercury Hg μg/L 0.6 66.9 (total) j

Nickel Ni μg/L 11 49 (total) j

Zinc Zn μg/L 8 244 (total) j a – Obtained from Table 3.4.1 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) based on 95% species level of protection, unless otherwise stated. b – Section 4.2.10.1 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for general water uses. c – Table 4.3.1 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000), adopted the lower limit for beef cattle and horses. d – Table 3.3.9 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for upland & lowland rivers. e – Table 3.3.8 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for lowland rivers and freshwater lakes and reservoirs. f – Section 4.3.3.4 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for livestock drinking water. g – Table 5.2.3 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for recreational purposes. h – Section 4.3.3.2 in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) for livestock drinking water. i – Group A sites are representative of undisturbed areas within the mineralised zone of Project area. j – Testing on filtered samples was not undertaken. k – No WQO values for TSS available, maximum sample TSS concentration from Sample group B nominated

3.2-37 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview

3.2.2.6 Groundwater Systems Hydrogeology The hydrogeology within 40 km of the Jervois mine is described by Ride (2016, 1971). The hydrogeology of the study area can be separated into two distinct groundwater systems: • the Georgina Basin typified by karstic and fractured sedimentary rocks which host regionally extensive groundwater resources; and • the Arunta Region typified by fractured and weathered metasediments with minor groundwater resources.

Both are relevant to the Project because the Project area is situated within the Arunta Region, but due to a lack of groundwater resources it is necessary to supply water to the Project from an external bore source. The external bore source is located within the Georgina Basin (approximately 40 km north- west of the Project area).

Project area hydrogeology Numerous local minor aquifers occur within the granites, pegmatites and other basement formations of the Arunta Region. Groundwater yield and storage within these aquifers relies on fractures and jointing, they typically form marginal aquifers that are only suitable for stock and minor domestic supply. Local aquifers are also present in shallow alluvial deposits (e.g. Paradise Bore 15 km north- east of the mine). Tertiary alluvial sequences (palaeovalleys) form significant groundwater resources in other locations in Central Australia (e.g. Ti-tree basin, Tennant Creek), however, previous investigation drilling (Ride, 1971) suggests that these deposits have a limited extent and thickness. SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-38

\ Environmental Impact Statement

The groundwater system in the mine area is within the fractured and weathered rocks of the Bonya Metamorphics. Shallow investigations in similar rocks indicate yields ranging between 0.5 and 2.5 L/s. Groundwater resources in the Jervois Mine area are very poor due to the limited open fracturing and lack of primary porosity of the Proterozoic rock, with recorded flows of 0.5 to 1.6 L/sec. Higher yielding areas are related to localised zones of more intense fracturing and jointing (NTEPA, 2017).

The Bonya Metamorphics has been mapped as having very poor (minor) groundwater resources due to the “tight” nature of the Proterozoic rock. Groundwater occurs in the Bonya Metamorphics Complex in fractures at about 25 metres below ground surface (M.I.M Exploration, 2001). The Bonya Schist is typical of metamorphic rocks and has a poor record of successful groundwater exploration (Berry & Matthews, 1992). Metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss have low permeabilities and generally contain small amounts of groundwater which is commonly brackish to saline. Information on the hydrogeology of the fresh rocks at greater depths is limited.

External borefield hydrogeology Groundwater resources capable of meeting the water demand for the process water supply (45 L/s) are most likely located within the Georgina Basin in the regionally extensive fractured and karstic rocks of the Arrinthrunga Formation, Steamboat Sandstone and Arthur Creek Formation (CloudGSM, 2018). The Georgina Basin Carbonate Aquifer is part of the regionally extensive Georgina Basin that underlies approximately one quarter of the Northern Territory and extends beneath the northwest of Queensland with an estimated drainable groundwater volume of 160 – 320 cubic kilometres (CloudGSM, 2018).

Carbonate formations in other regions of the Georgina Basin have recorded significant bore yields (50 L/s) in areas where weathering has led to dissolution features and karst development (i.e. cavernous limestone) within the limestone/dolostone sequence and significant secondary porosity (CloudGSM, 2018). Lucy Creek Oil Well located 45 km north-east of the Jervois mine intersected a full sequence of the Arrinthrunga Formation (700 m) and airlifted 1600 barrels an hour of groundwater (approx. 60 L/s) during drilling. Ride (1971) drilled several investigation holes along the oil bore access road, two bores were pumped at rates of 5 and 6 L/s one of which recorded a “cavern” at a depth of 190 m. Bores drilled closer to Lucy Creek Station along the access track had less success.

More detail about the groundwater systems of the Project area appear in Section 3.1.

Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE’s) The understanding of, and information available for, groundwater dependent ecosystems in Central Australia is developing slowly. Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum) and some Corymbia spp. are known to be dependent on groundwater. Eucalyptus camaldulensis is dependent on shallow ground water (up to 10 m bgl (Horner, 2009), whereas Corymbia species, while still tending to be groundwater dependent in semi-arid areas, are deeper rooted (8-20 m) than E. camaldulensis. Old Corymbia opaca (Bloodwood) trees may be more than 300 years old and have survived long lasting droughts in that time may also be better able to extract soil water against higher pressure deficits. These species are locally common within 20 km of the Project area. Eucalyptus camaldulensis, C. opaca and C. aparrerinja were recorded throughout the Project area during on-ground surveys. The river red gums 3.2-39 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview at the Jervois dam have flourished since the dam was built in the late 1970 or early 1980 period as a source of water for the newly opened Jervois mine in 1983.

Within the Project area, generally groundwater levels are greater than 20 metres below ground level suggesting that the water table in this location is likely to be disconnected from the regional groundwater system (Georgina Basin) (CloudGSM, 2018). However, there are two sites that show groundwater levels less than 5 m below ground level and these are associated with Unca Creek (CloudGSM, 2018). There is a moderate to high likelihood that the E. camaldulensis community along Unca Creek (north) and the major tributary to Unca Creek (south) is dependent on groundwater within the alluvial soils.

Within the process supply area (external borefield), there are no identified groundwater dependant ecosystems (GDE’s) and the depth to water is greater than 20 metres and considered too deep to support GDE’s. However, along Arthur Creek near Lucy Creek Homestead it is possible that the riparian vegetation is accessing groundwater due to the depth to groundwater (CloudGSM, 2018). The closest sites that record water levels within 15 m of the ground surface are to the west of Lucy Creek station homestead RN011495, RN012993, RN013689, RN013381, and RN18943 located approximately 10km east of the process water supply borefield (CloudGSM, 2018). The bore reports indicate a standing water level of 6 – 9 m below ground surface. In this area the ground surface elevation is relatively low (<320 mAHD) and coincides with the location of the Lucy Creek Fault Zone which is interpreted to impede groundwater flow to the east, resulting in a shallow water table (CloudGSM, 2018).

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-40

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Subterranean fauna Subterranean fauna live their entire lives (obligate) below the surface of the earth and are divided into two groups: • Stygofauna – aquatic and living in groundwater; and • Troglofauna – air-breathing and living in caves and voids (WA EPA, 2013).

There are both invertebrate and vertebrate subterranean species, although invertebrates predominate (WA EPA, 2013). Examples of invertebrate groups with subterranean representatives include crustaceans, insects, arachnids, myriapods (millipedes), chilipods (centipedes), worms and gastropod snails (WA EPA, 2013).

Stygofauna include crustaceans, molluscs, worms, beetles and other less familiar invertebrates, and have been found in many calcrete, alluvial and fractured rock aquifers (Tomlinson, Boulton, Hancock, & Cook, 2007). Most are unpigmented, elongate and small, adapted for life in dark and often confined spaces.

Owing to their requirement for permanent groundwater and their ancient origins, the presence of stygofauna may indicate the long-term presence of suitable groundwater. This is because many species belong to lineages that are entirely confined to groundwater and so their presence is considered to pre-date the break-up of the super continents and to indicate the continuous presence of groundwater throughout the subsequent climatic oscillations (Humphreys, 2006).

The richness, composition and spatial patterning of stygofauna are poorly understood throughout the Northern Territory. However, it is apparent that stygofauna are present across a variety of Australian subsurface environments and are generally characterised by high diversity and local-scale endemicity (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2008). They are functionally important for nutrient cycling in aquifers, but are also valued for their contribution to biodiversity.

Interest has been ignited by reports of “hotspots” of stygofauna diversity where new species have been discovered in areas where groundwater extraction or mining is planned (Tomlinson, Boulton, Hancock, & Cook, 2007). These biological hotspots could indeed be of high ecological significance or could merely reflect the lack of data from which to draw meaningful comparisons. In any case, the presence of stygofauna is currently considered to be of significance, the extent of which may best be measured through its contribution to biodiversity.

Stygofauna ecology and habitat requirements Stygofauna can be expected to occur wherever groundwater environments provide suitable habitat (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). This includes porous, karstic and fractured-rock aquifers as well as in the hyporheic zone and springs (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). These groundwater environments are characterised by relatively stable environmental conditions compared with surface aquatic environments. They are lightless and typically incur only restricted inputs of energy (low productivity) (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). Some types of geology, such as deep sands or clays (especially over

3.2-41 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview solid rock) or hyper-saline groundwater, have a low likelihood of supporting subterranean fauna as they lack suitable pores or voids (WA EPA, 2013). Herbivorous stygofauna are represented only by root-mat feeders. There are few predatory stygofauna, and a greater proportion of omnivores (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). The life-history adaptations by stygofauna to the relatively more stable aquifer environment include fewer but larger eggs, prolonged egg development and greater longevity compared with phyletically related surface- dwelling taxa (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). Obligate groundwater invertebrates also have other morphological, physiological, behavioural and life history adaptations. These include eye loss or reduction, small size, loss of pigmentation, attenuated body shape, development of sensory setae, lower metabolic rates, and reduced locomotory and physiological activity in response to environmental stress (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2008). Most subterranean food webs are heterotrophic, relying on water percolating through the vadose zone or exchanging across the hyporheic zone to supply organic matter and dissolved oxygen (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). The transfer of carbon from particulate and dissolved organic matter to invertebrates is mediated by biofilms coating sediment particles and rock surfaces (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010).

Degrees of porosity determine available living space for stygofauna, place physical constraints on faunal size and food particles (e.g. particulate organic matter) and affect hydraulic conductivity and therefore the delivery rate of oxygen, particulate matter and solutes (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). Dissolved oxygen is a key environmental parameter in interstitial environments (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2008). Hahn (2006) found oxygen concentrations of 1 mg/L or less to be a critical limit for subsurface fauna. Despite a tolerance of suboxia, fauna in unconfined aquifers preferentially occupy the zone just below the watertable where dissolved oxygen and nutrient concentrations are highest (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2008). Some species have restricted ability to respond to environmental change or to recolonise readily after local extinction (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). Microcosm experiments on stygofauna from bores near Tamworth, NSW, suggested that small-bodied fauna such as copepods are able to follow declining water levels, but that larger animals such as amphipods become stranded (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010).

Although aquifer type is unlikely to be a discrete habitat harbouring distinctive fauna, the classification of potential habitats for stygofauna may help predict biodiversity, abundance, distribution and community structure (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010). Although few habitats are delineated by discrete boundaries, categorisation can be based initially on identification of broad aquifer types such as karstic, fractured rock and alluvial aquifers (Tomlinson & Boulton, 2010).

Stygofauna in the Project area At the mine site the habitat suitability is poor. The lithology of metamorphosed rocks is fine grained and these rocks will not provide the pore spaces required to support stygofauna (CloudGSM, 2018). At the process water supply borefield the habitable suitability is higher (CloudGSM, 2018). The aquifer comprises limestone with low salinity groundwater. The extent of the potential habitat is immense. The Georgina Basin is an intra-cratonic sedimentary basin extending approximately 330,000 km2 within the NT and Queensland with a thickness exceeding 1000 m at the basin centre and thinning at the margins. There have been no stygofauna identified in the Georgina Basin due to negligible

SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-42

\ Environmental Impact Statement sampling effort. Studies by the NT government to support water allocation have concluded that stygofauna are assumed not to be present. Limited survey in similar rock in the NT (but not in the Georgina Basin) did not find stygofauna. The only recorded occurrence of stygofauna in the arid NT is in shallow calcrete in the Ngalia Basin.

3.2.3 Conclusion The Jervois Base Metal Project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Terms of Reference has identified flora and vegetation communities, terrestrial fauna, aquatic ecosystems and groundwater systems as preliminary environmental factors that may be impacted by the Project. In order to better understand the ecological values of the Project area, a number of investigations were undertaken by various specialists. The ecological investigations were undertaken by Low Ecological Services P/L between 1985 and 2017. The studies included desktop assessment (i.e. interrogation of spatial databases and reviews of relevant literature) and field work involving on-ground flora and fauna surveys in 1999, 2012, 2013 and 2017. Survey methods for vegetation surveys and landscape description were based on “Northern Territory Guidelines and Field Methodology for Vegetation Survey and Mapping” (Brocklehurst, 2007) and “A resource assessment towards a conservation strategy for the Finke Bioregion” (Neave, 2004). General fauna survey methodology follows the NT EPA “Guidelines for Assessment of Impacts on Terrestrial Biodiversity” (NT EPA, 2013). Additional targeted surveys were conducted for species of conservation significance listed under the TPWC Act that were identified in database searches as potentially occurring within the Project area.

Surface water and groundwater investigations were completed for the Project area, based on desktop assessment of existing databases and previous studies. The surface water investigations also included baseline surface water quality monitoring. A total of 11 surface water quality monitoring sites were set up across the Project area, including one monitoring site in Jervois Dam and 10 monitoring sites in the catchment of Unca Creek and its tributary downstream of Jervois Dam (JSW001 to JSW010). The available samples were obtained following a total of four rainfall events which occurred between 2015 and 2018, except for one sample for Jervois dam which was obtained in January 1991.

Based on survey results, eight refined vegetation communities have been mapped over the entire Project area (3,800 ha) that is located mostly within the Jervois Range Site of Botanical Significance (SoBS). The riparian vegetation community along Unca Creek was identified as having a potential interaction with shallow groundwater. Two flora species listed as near threatened under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (TPWC Act), Eremophila cordatisepala and Sauropus rigens, were recorded during on-ground surveys. There were no communities or flora species listed under the EPBC Act located in the Project area. The Project area contained two declared weed species Tamarix aphylla (athel pine) and Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata (coral cactus), but was generally considered to be in good condition considering a long history (since 1929) of mining and the presence of some existing mining infrastructure.

Based on survey results, six habitat types have been mapped over the entire Project area (3,800 ha). The most common habitat type in the Project area is “Tall Corymbia sp. and Acacia sp. woodland” followed by “Low Acacia sp. shrubland”. Two fauna species listed as near threatened under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (TPWC Act), emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and long-

3.2-43 Jervois Base Metal Project

Project Overview haired rat (Rattus villosissimus), were recorded during on-ground surveys. There were no listed migratory species recorded during fauna surveys, although the Jervois Dam was identified as potential habitat for migratory species that may be in transit over the Project area. The Project area contained four exotic fauna species (cat, rabbit, house mouse and cattle) but was generally considered to be in good condition considering a long history (since 1929) of mining and the presence of some existing mining infrastructure.

The drainage lines that intersect the Project area are Unca Creek and a major tributary of Unca Creek. Jervois Dam is located in the north-west of the Project area on Unca Creek. It was constructed for previous mining operations and is the largest and most permanent surface water body in the Jervois Region. Based on the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) guideline, the condition of the watercourses in the vicinity of the Project is considered as Condition 2: slightly to moderately disturbed ecosystem. The observed water quality parameters are within the water quality objective (WQO) limits for pH, EC, TDS, sulphate, nitrate and magnesium. However, the observed turbidity is significantly higher than the WQO limit. Aquatic ecosystems in the Project area and surround are ephemeral, as watercourses only contain water following good rainfall. There are no records of aquatic fauna, such as fish or freshwater invertebrates, in the NT Fauna Atlas within a 20 km buffer of the Project area. However, aquatic systems in arid Australia, particularly those not within National Parks, are understudied. It is highly likely that fish and aquatic invertebrates will occur in the watercourses within or surrounding the Project area following good rainfall. Burrows of fresh water land crabs, likely Holothuisiana transversa, were found in nearby Arthur Creek by Low and Strong (Low Ecological Services, 1985).

The hydrogeology within 40 km of the Jervois mine is described by Ride (2016, 1971). The hydrogeology of the study area can be separated into two distinct groundwater systems: • the Georgina Basin typified by karstic and fractured sedimentary rocks which host regionally extensive groundwater resources; and • the Arunta Region typified by fractured and weathered metasediments with minor groundwater resources.

Both are relevant to the Project because the Project area is situated within the Arunta Region, but due to a lack of groundwater resources it is necessary to supply water to the Project from an external bore source. The external bore source is located within the Georgina Basin (approximately 40 km north- west of the Project area). Numerous local minor aquifers occur within the granites, pegmatites and other basement formations of the Arunta Region. Groundwater yield and storage within these aquifers relies on fractures and jointing, they typically form marginal aquifers that are only suitable for stock and minor domestic supply.

Groundwater resources in the Jervois Mine area are very poor due to the limited open fracturing and lack of primary porosity of the Proterozoic rock, with recorded flows of 0.5 to 1.6 L/sec (CloudGSM, 2018). Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDE’s) are limited to Unca Creek and the watertable in the Project area is generally unsuitable for stygofauna (CloudGSM, 2018). Groundwater resources capable of meeting the water demand for the process water supply (45 L/s) are most likely located within the Georgina Basin in the regionally extensive fractured and karstic rocks of the Arrinthrunga Formation, Steamboat Sandstone and Arthur Creek Formation (CloudGSM, 2018). The Georgina Basin SECTION 3.2 | Biological Environment 3.2-44

\ Environmental Impact Statement

Carbonate Aquifer is part of the regionally extensive Georgina Basin that underlies approximately one quarter of the Northern Territory and extends beneath the northwest of Queensland with an estimated drainable groundwater volume of 160 – 320 cubic kilometres (CloudGSM, 2018). Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDE’s) are limited to Unca Creek and the watertable is generally suitable for stygofauna, although none have been recorded (CloudGSM, 2018).

From the baseline information presented, it is apparent that the following values are significant and need to be carefully managed during the life of the Project: • Threatened flora species (i.e. Eremophila cordatisepala and Sauropus rigens) • Threatened fauna species (i.e. emu and long-haired rat) • Floristic and habitat values provided by Unca Creek • Habitat values provided by Jervois Dam • Surface water resources of Unca Creek; and • Groundwater resources, particularly in relation to groundwater dependent ecosystems on Unca Creek.

3.2-45 Jervois Base Metal Project