February 2009

Review of Flora and Fauna Protected under the EPBC Act 1999

Western Areas NL 11 Ventnor Avenue WEST PERTH WA 6005

Ph: (08) 9334 777 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Table of Contents

1.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE...... 4 2.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 4 3.0 DESCRIPTION OF LOCALITY ...... 5 4.0 FAUNA ...... 6 4.1 Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris) ...... 6 4.2 Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata) ...... 8 4.3 Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus) ...... 10 4.4 Eastern Great Egret (Ardea alba, Ardea modesta, Egretta alba) ...... 12 4.5 Cattle Egret (Ardea Ibis, Bubulcus ibis) ...... 12 4.6 Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) ...... 13 4.7 Slender-billed Thornbill (Acanthiza iredalei iredalei) ...... 14 4.8 Chuditch (Dasyuris geoffroii) ...... 15 4.9 Red-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale calura) ...... 18 5.0 FLORA ...... 19 5.1 Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla (Ironcaps Banksia) ...... 20 5.2 Eucalyptus steedmanii (Steedman’s Gum) ...... 21 5.3 Eremophila viscida (Varnish Bush) ...... 23 5.4 Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor (Little Kangaroo Paw) ...... 24 5.5 Grevillea involucrata (Lake Varley Grevillea)...... 25 5.6 Roycea pycnophylloides (Saltmat) ...... 26 5.7 Boronia revoluta (Ironcap Boronia) ...... 27 6.0 CONCLUSION ...... 28 7.0 PLATES ...... 30 8.0 REFERENCES ...... 32

Tables

Table 1: E. steedmanii population size assessment ...... 22

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 2 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Table of Figures

Figure 1: Location of Forrestania in Western Australia ...... 5 Figure 2: Distribution of Carnaby's Black-Cockatoo ...... 6 Figure 3: Distribution map of Malleefowl ...... 8 Figure 4: Distribution of Merops ornatus ...... 10 Figure 5: Distribution map for Ardea alba ...... 12 Figure 6: Distribution map for Ardea ibis ...... 12 Figure 7: Distribution map for Apus pacificus ...... 13 Figure 8: Distribution map for the Slender-billed Thornbill ...... 14 Figure 9: Distribution map for Chuditch ...... 15 Figure 10: Distribution map for the Red-tailed Phascogale ...... 18 Figure 11: Distribution map for Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla ...... 20 Figure 12: Distribution of Eucalyptus steedmanii ...... 21 Figure 13: Distribution map for Eremophila viscida ...... 23 Figure 14: Distribution map for Eremophila viscida ...... 24 Figure 15: Distribution map for Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor ...... 24 Figure 16: Distribution map for Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor ...... 25 Figure 17: Distribution map for Grevillea involucrata ...... 25 Figure 18: Distribution map for Grevillea involucrata ...... 26 Figure 19: Distribution map for Roycean pycnophylloides ...... 26 Figure 20: Distribution map for Boronia revoluta ...... 27

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 3 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

1.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is triggered when actions that have, or which are likely to have, a significant impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) are undertaken, or are proposed to be undertaken. Matters of NES that are protected by the EPBC Act include:

World Heritage Properties; National Heritage Places; Wetlands of International importance; Listed threatened species or ecological communities; Migratory species; Commonwealth marine areas; and Nuclear actions (including uranium mines).

Other matters protected by the EPBC Act include:

The environment, where actions proposed are on, or will affect Commonwealth land and the environment; The environment, where Commonwealth agencies are proposing to take an action.

Western Areas NL’s (WSA), Spotted Quoll mining proposal (the SQ proposal) was referred to the Commonwealth Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) in August 2008. Following referral of the SQ proposal, advice was received from DEWHA (20 October 2008), that the SQ proposal was considered to be a controlled action (i.e., likely to have a significant impact on a matter of NES; namely listed threatened species and communities) and that it would be assessed at a preliminary documentation level of assessment.

It is the purpose of this document to review the potential for the SQ proposal to impact on listed threatened species and communities which, according to the DEWHA protected matters search tool, have potential to occur within the proposed SQ open pit and underground mine footprint area.

Strategies that seek to avoid, mitigate or offset impacts on listed threatened species and communities of concern in the SQ proposal project area are included in the Environmental Protection Statement and accompanying management plans and appendices. These were prepared for the Western Australian (WA) Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) as a part of the formal WA Environmental Impact Assessment process for the SQ proposal. This document is included as a supplement to this document.

2.0 INTRODUCTION

WSA propose to undertake the development of the nickel sulphide resource located at the Spotted Quoll prospect on mining tenement M77/583, which is located approximately six kilometres south of the current Flying Fox nickel mine. The total Spotted Quoll resource contains approximately 2.02 million tonnes of ore averaging 6.2 % Nickel. This area lies outside the 10 km buffer of the Lake Cronin Nature Reserve, which is listed on the Register of the National Estate.

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 4 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Supporting infrastructure (haul road, power, and dewatering pipeline) for the SQ proposal will extend from M77/583 to mining tenement M77/545 on which existing infrastructure associated with the operational Flying Fox Mine is located. An underground pipeline connecting SQ to the established dewatering system at the Flying Fox Mine will be used to dewater the mine.

Current estimates by WSA indicate that a maximum of 140 Ha will be required for mine development and infrastructure, including road upgrades (i.e., the haul road to Flying Fox). However, existing tracks, roads and other disturbed areas of land will be utilised preferentially to minimise the overall disturbance; this should account for a significant part of the clearing.

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF LOCALITY

The Forrestania Nickel Project (FNP) is located within the Shire of Kondinin, Western Australia. The proposed SQ open cut and underground mine is located approximately 450 km east of Perth, 80 km east of Hyden, and 160 km south of Southern Cross (see Figure 1, below). The SQ proposal is approximately six kilometres southwest of the Flying Fox mine. The Lake Cronin Nature Reserve is located approximately five kilometres northeast of the Flying Fox Mine (32 23’18”S, 119 45’16”E).

Figure 1: Location of Forrestania in Western Australia

Source: Google – Map data (http://maps.google.com)

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 5 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

The FNP and associated tenements are located within the Western Mallee and Coolgardie Biogeographical sub-regions, and within the Roe Botanical District of the Southwest Botanical Province (Gibson, 2004). The area has low relief and lies 300 to 500 metres above sea level. Forrestania lies within the Salt Lake, or Salinaland, physiographic division, which includes most of the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia.

The climate in the general area is semi-arid to arid and can be characterised by its relatively low annual rainfall and large temperature range. Average annual rainfall is 335 – 345 mm, with the majority of rainfall having been recorded as falling between May and September.

Allocasuarina shrub-lands, and Eucalypt woodlands on heavy soils, which inhabit weathered greenstones (Botanica Consulting, 2008) dominate the project area. Mallee on lateritic ridges and sand-plain heaths on lighter soils extend to the northwest. The Forrestania area contains several species that are considered threatened. Species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act that occur, or which are likely to occur in the SQ area as indicated by the EPBC Protect Matters Search Tool using a 20 km buffer are outlined in the following sections.

4.0 FAUNA

4.1 Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris)

4.1.1 Status and distribution

Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999; its distribution for the most part follows the Wheatbelt region of WA as can been seen in Figure 2, particularly in regions with a rainfall of between 300 – 750 mm per annum, (DEWHA, 2009).

Figure 2: Distribution of Carnaby's 4.1.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats Black-Cockatoo Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo has a present population of Heritage and the Arts, 2009

approximately 11 000 – 60 000 birds (Saunders, Rowley, & Smith, 1985) that is divided into three to five sub-populations (Garnett & Crowley, 2000). Its extent of occurrence has contracted approximately 30% since the 1940s (Mawson, 1997).

Eucalypt woodlands containing Eucalyptus salmonophloia (Salmon Gum) and E. wandoo is its preferential breeding habitat, however, the availability of suitable nesting hollows, which can take 120 to 150 years to develop (Pittman, et al, 2007), will influence breeding success together with the availability of nearby foraging grounds (DEWHA, 2009). Foraging habitat generally includes shrub-land or kwongan health-land dominated by Hakea, Dryandra, Banksia and Grevillea species (Morcombe, 2003), however, it may seasonally forage in marri, exotic pine forests (DEWHA, 2009), or on farmed fruit and nut trees (Pittman, et al, 2007). The distance between foraging grounds and nesting sites vary, but can be over 12 km as demonstrated in one study by Saunders (Saunders, D A, 1980).

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 6 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Nests are generally more than two metres above ground level, at least 0.1 m deep (DEWHA, 2009), and lined with wood dust (Johnstone & Storr, 1998). Some trials have shown that the species will readily breed in artificial hollows (DEWHA, 2009). The parents live in solitary pairs throughout the breeding season (Higgins, 1999), and generally return to the same breeding grounds each year (Saunders, 1977).

The female lays up to two eggs (DEWHA, 2009) from July through to November, with the second egg being laid up to 16 days after the first (Saunders, D A, 1982). The survival rate of both chicks reaching the fledgling stage of development is very low (Saunders, D A, 1982). If a previous nesting attempt has failed, the female occasionally re-lays at another site (DEWHA, 2009).

The loss and fragmentation of habitat, the clearance of health-lands around breeding sites, and the removal of native vegetation corridors are considered principle factors in the decline of the Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo (DEWHA, 2009). Furthermore, the reduced availability of suitable nesting hollows compounded by competition for nesting hollows by other bird species, such as the Galah and Western Corella, is another factor; other threats, as stated by Saunders (1982), include predation by Wedge- tailed Eagles, being hit by cars, drowning and entrapment in tree hollows, and the abandonment of nests following disturbance (DEWHA, 2009).

Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo can live for 40 – 50 years (Department of the Environment, 2007); they do not reach breeding age until at least four years of age (Saunders, D A, 1982). Cale (2003) estimates that the generation time to be 15 years. Hence, threatening processes have a high potential to cause significant declines in populations, and that any recovery of the species will be relatively slow, especially considering those birds that do breed successfully in a season, are very unlikely to have more than one fledged offspring.

4.1.3 Discussion

The SQ proposal is located in a small patch of Salmon Gum woodland (refer to Section 7.0). The number of trees in this area with suitable nesting hollows for Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo is small, as is evident from Plates 3 and 4 in Section 7.0, and are mostly isolated to areas east and south of the proposed mine footprint. A fire in 1994 burnt much of the adjacent vegetation, resulting in dense growth of immature Eucalypts to 3.0 m in a number of large patches; these are particularly evident from the northern verge of the proposed pit at Spotted Quoll, and somewhat to the south.

Very small numbers of Carnaby’s Cockatoo occur in this region during the breeding season, which occurs from September to January, suggesting that most are probably migrants returning from the Lake Cronin and Hatters Hill feeding areas (Johnstone, Johnstone, & Kirkby, 2008). In a habitat assessment for Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Western Rosella, and Chuditch in the Spotted Quoll area (Johnstone, Johnstone, & Kirkby, 2008), three sites were flagged for Carnaby’s Cockatoo.

These included old evidence of feeding on Dryandra flowers in two locations along the proposed haul- road, just west of the Lounge Lizard pit, and approximately 1.5 km southwest of the Flying Fox box-cut. A hollow in a Salmon Gum showing historical signs of use by Carnaby’s Cockatoo was also found along the proposed haul road approximately half-way between Flying Fox and Spotted Quoll. Advice from Johnstone, Johnstone and Kirkby (2008) is that this hollow has not been used in recent years. Plate 6

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 7 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

(Section 7.0) shows a photo of the general area; there are approximately two to three mature eucalypts that bear hollows adjacent to the haul road in its entirely.

Few trees in the proposed mine footprint contain hollows that would be suitable for Carnaby’s. More suitable stands of trees are located further east, or several kilometres to the south of Spotted Quoll (Boojum). Near Flying Fox, is an area of preferred foraging habitat of Carnaby’s, and a flock of six birds was noted in the general area during Phase II of a fauna survey (Biota, 2006a).

Johnston, Johnstone and Kirkby (2008) state that, given that Forrestania is the edge of the Carnaby’s Cockatoo’s range, that no evidence of recent nesting has occurred at the site, and that clearing of large trees will be avoided wherever reasonably possible, the project is believed to be unlikely to affect populations of Carnaby’s or the conservation significance of the species.

4.2 Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata)

4.2.1 Status and distribution

The Malleefowl, Leipoa ocellata, is listed as Vulnerable and Migratory under the EPBC Act 1999; its distribution is generally restricted to the southern half of Australia in fragmented pockets as can been seen in Figure 3, (DEWHA, 2009). It is included in the JAMBA treaty.

4.2.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats Figure 3: Distribution map of Malleefowl

Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the The Malleefowl is a large, ground-dwelling bird Arts, 2009

weighing up to 2.5 kg; it is a poor flyer and therefore, rarely flies but rather walks along the ground (DEWHA, 2009). Malleefowl are usually solitary and occupy a home range of between 0.5 and 4.6 km2 (Benshemesh, 1992). Established monogamous breeding pairs usually inhabit a similar area throughout the year, and come together for breeding (Marchant & Higgins, 2003; Benshemesh, 1992).

The extent of occurrence and distribution is contracting (Garnett & Crowley, 2000; Benshemesh, 2000), with the south-western area of Western Australia being one of a number of areas that has undergone the most notable distribution contractions (Benshemesh, 2005). An accurate estimate of the population of Malleefowl is uknown, but it could lie in the vicinity of 100 000 birds (Garnett & Crowley, 2000); it is known to be declining (Benshemesh, 2005; Benshemesh, 2000; Garnett & Crowley, 2000). An estimated lifespan of the Malleefowl is 15 years, with the onset of breeding occuring in three to four-year old captive birds (DEWHA, 2009).

Shrublands and low woodlands that are dominated by mallee vegetation are the Malleefowls preferred habitat, but they may also occur in other plant communities such as eucalypt or native pine woodlands, acacia shrub-lands, and Broombush vegetation (Benshemesh, 2005). A dense, discontinuous canopy together with a dense understorey of shrubs, or grasses and herbs, together

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 8 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

with abundant leaf litter is ideal (Benshemesh, 2005), as it provides shelter from predators and materials for building mounds (Marchant & Higgins, 2003).

Suitable soils are sandy or loamy, and the area with a rainfall of between 200 and 450 mm (Priddel & Wheeler, 1995). Mounds may consist of sand or soil, and organic matter; and are up to 12 m in diameter and more than one metre high (Marchant & Higgins, 2003). A combination of fermentation and solar radiation incubates the eggs (Frith, 1956). Food sources include seeds, plant material, invertebrates, lerp, fungi, and tubers; they mostly forage at dawn and dusk (Marchant & Higgins, 2003).

Birds generally breed annually (Marchant & Higgins, 2003) with the breeding season extending up to 11 months (DEWHA, 2009) beginning with the first eggs being layed in September that may continue through until autumn (Marchant & Higgins, 2003). Three to 35 eggs are laid at five to 17-day intervals, and the fully independent chicks emerge 49 to 96 days later (Frith, 1959). Fifty to eighty-five percent of eggs hatch (Frith, 1959), however, generally more than 80% of chicks die within the first few weeks from predation and ‘metabolic stress’ (Priddel & Wheeler, 1994).

Significant threats to the conservation of the Malleefowl include clearing (DEWHA, 2009), fragmentation and isolation of populations and fire (Benshemesh, 2005). One of the most important threats to the long-term survival of the species is predation (Priddel & Wheeler, 1995), principally by foxes, which can take more than a third of eggs and are responsible for up to 50% of mortality amongst chicks to sub-adult stage (Benshemesh, 2005). Raptors may account for a further 30% of chick deaths (Priddel & Wheeler, 1995).

4.2.3 Discussion

Malleefowl are often seen in certain areas of the Forrestania region (a few sightings per year). Consequently, a malleefowl mound search was conducted for the Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox areas in April/May 2008, with no malleefowl or malleefowl mounds found in or near the clearing permit envelope. It should be noted that a lot of this area has recently been burned resulting in habitat that is unfavourable to malleefowl at present owing to low ground leaf litter for mound building and insufficient shrub height and cover.

It is not believed that noise generated from the proposed mine will prevent local malleefowl tending nests, as Biota (2006b) has stated that malleefowl have been documented tending mounds adjacent to busy highways at two separate locations in WA.

Predation is a significant threat to the Malleefowl, and Western Areas NL conducts an annual 1080 baiting programme to manage dogs on WSA tenements. Western Areas NL also sponsors the Eastern Wheatbelt Declared Species Group that targets wild dogs in the eastern Wheatbelt. Cats are controlled by trapping exercises conducted by WSA personnel.

Western Areas NL also has a basic fire management plan in place which will be extended to the Spotted Quoll project area (refer to EPS supplement document). Fire is a significant threat to Malleefowl, as it not only results in direct mortality, but also habitat destruction, which may take years to regenerate owing to their need for plant material for mound-building (Benshemesh, 2005).

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 9 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

A 60 km/hr speed limit is prescribed along the existing dewatering pipeline road, whereby a recently used malleefowl mound was found (Biota, 2006b), and sightings have occurred; furthermore, employees and contractors to site are made aware of the existence of the malleefowl on site when inducted, and asked to exercise caution, and report sightings.

An additional search will be undertaken for active malleefowl mounds within 100 m of mine development areas prior to clearing taking place. If any active Malleefowl mounds are located, these will be avoided.

Given the management measures that will be put in place, WSA does not believe that the proposal will have a significant negative effect on local populations. The Malleefowl’s primary threat is predation, which, WSA through internal and external means is actively controlling; a further hazard to the Malleefowl is road traffic, however, 60 km/hr speed limits and signage along certain roads aim to reduce this potential risk.

4.3 Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus)

4.3.1 Status and distribution

Merops ornatus is listed as Migratory and a Marine species under the EPBC Act 1999. The Rainbow Bee-eater is distributed throughout Australia, excluding Tasmania; eastern Indonesia; and east to Papua New Guinea; the Bismarck Archipelago; and rarely the Solomon Islands. It is included in the JAMBA treaty. They are vagrants to Palau, south-western Micronesia, Saipan, the northern Mariana Islands, Miyako

Island, and the southern Ryuku Islands in Japan. The Rainbow- Figure 4: Distribution of Merops ornatus

bee-eaters Australian distribution is shown in Figure 4. Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 4.3.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats

The Rainbow Bee-eater is a medium-sized bird that is usually seen in pairs of small flocks when not migrating (Higgins, 1999). While there are no estimates on the population size of the species, it is considered large (DEWHA, 2009). It seems that populations in Western Australia have increased, whilst those in the Northern Territory and Victoria have declined in recent years (DEWHA, 2009).

The Rainbow Bee-eater occurs in a diverse range of habitats. It is most often observed in open forests and woodlands usually dominated by eucalypts (DEWHA, 2009), shrub-lands, and in cleared or semi- cleared habitats that includes farmland and areas of human habitation (Higgins, 1999), and often in close proximity to permanent water (DEWHA, 2009). Other types of habitats include heath-land, sedgeland, grassland, vine forest and vine thickets; also coastal sand dune systems, and mangroves in northern Australia (Higgins, 1999).

The bird nests in monogamous pairs in small colonies (DEWHA, 2009) with parents sometimes being aided by generally male ‘helpers’ (Boland, 2004). The majority of the global population breed in

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 10 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Australia where the breeding season occurs from August to January (Higgins, 1999). The bird nests on flat or sloping ground, in riverbanks, creeks or dams, roadside cuttings, in the walls of gravel pits, gravel mounds or in cliff faces by excavating a chamber at the end of a long burrow (Fry, 1984; Higgins, 1999; Lill, 1993). Two to eight eggs are laid (Lill, 1993). The young are continued to be fed, two to four weeks after fledging (Boland, 2004).

While earthworms (Cleland, et al., 1918), spiders (Lea & Gray, 1935), and tadpoles (Wheeler, 1973) may make up some component of the Rainbow Bee-eater’s diet, the bird mostly feeds on insects, and in particular bees and wasps (Fry, 1984; Lea & Gray, 1935; Higgins, 1999).

The population in the south of Australia migrate north between February and April to return to their breeding grounds in September and October (Saunders & Ingram, 1995; Serventy, D L; Whittell, H M, 1976). Birds have a lifespan of up to two years (Higgins, 1999).

There is one identified threat to the Rainbow Bee-eater, this being the Cane Toad, as they feed on eggs and nestlings and usurp the nesting burrows that are often located on the banks of water-bodies (DEWHA, 2009). One study by Boland (2004), found that one third of breeding attempts failed due to interference by Cane Toads, and that this potentially could have a significant effect on those populations affected.

Nestlings or eggs may be lost to predation by foxes (Higgins, 1999), dingoes, feral dogs (Boland, 2004), goannas and monitors (Forshaw & Cooper, 1987), brown snakes (Lill, 1993), Australian magpies and Brown Goshawks (Ashton, 1986; Forshaw & Cooper, 1987); heavy rain; desertion; malnutrition; or by trampling (Boland, 2004; Lill, 1993). Collisions with vehicles are rare and likely to have little or no effect on populations (DEWHA, 2009).

4.3.3 Discussion

The Rainbow Bee-eater is unlikely to breed in the area, as populations in the south of Australia tend to migrate north to breed; furthermore, Forrestania does not have a permanent fresh water source. Nevertheless, two observations of Rainbow Bee-eater were made opportunistically in Phase II of the Forrestania Fauna Survey (Biota, 2006a). This survey was conducted late in the breeding season. No survey after this period has resulted in the Rainbow Bee-eater having been observed.

This sighting confirms that the Rainbow Bee-eater can occur in the area, however, as no further sightings have been made, it is unlikely that the area is a significant habitat for the species, and hence, the Spotted Quoll mining proposal is not likely to have significant impact on the species.

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 11 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

4.4 Eastern Great Egret (Ardea alba, Ardea modesta, Egretta alba)

4.4.1 Status and distribution

The Eastern Great Egret is listed as Migratory and Marine under the EPBC Act 1999. It is included in the CAMBA and JAMBA treaties. The Australian distribution for the Eastern Great Egret is shown in Figure 5.

4.4.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats

The Eastern Great Egret is common throughout much of Figure 5: Distribution map for Ardea alba Australia. It inhabits wetlands, flooded pastures, dams, Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and estuarine mudflats, mangroves and reefs (Morcombe, the Arts, 2009 2003); where they hunt in shallow water feeding on mostly fish, but also insects, crustaceans and amphibians. They breed in colonies of mixed species.

4.4.3 Discussion

There have been no reported sightings of the Great Egret at Forrestania, and no records in surveys conducted at the site. Forrestania is not its preferred habitat as there are no significant permanent or ephemeral freshwater systems in or near the project area, and none capable of providing its primary food source. Therefore, the proposal is not expected to impact upon this species.

4.5 Cattle Egret (Ardea Ibis, Bubulcus ibis)

4.5.1 Status and distribution

The Cattle Egret is listed as Migratory and Marine under the EPBC Act 1999; it is included in the both the CAMBA and JAMBA treaties. Its distribution in Australia is shown in Figure 6. The Cattle Egret first arrived in northern Australia in the 1950’s, and has since spread to its current distribution, though it is less common in the southern

areas (Morcombe, 2003). Figure 6: Distribution map for Ardea ibis

Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and 4.5.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats the Arts, 2009

The Cattle Egret is mostly seen in small groups to large flocks. They primarily inhabit moist pastures with tall grass, shallow open wetlands and margins and mudflats (Morcombe, 2003). The Cattle Egret often nests and roosts in colonies with thousands of other birds. They live on insects and sometimes- on small aquatic animals, and is often seen feeding around the feet of slow moving cattle, or perched on their backs.

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4.5.3 Discussion

There have been no reported sightings of the Cattle Egret at Forrestania, and no records in surveys conducted at the site. Forrestania is not its preferred habitat as there are no significant permanent or ephemeral freshwater systems in or near the project area, and there are no livestock in the general area. The proposal is therefore not expected to impact this species.

4.6 Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus)

4.6.1 Status and distribution

The Fork-tailed Swift is listed as Migratory and Marine under the EPBC Act 1999. It is included in the CAMBA, JAMBA and ROKAMBA treaties. Its Australian distribution is shown in Figure 7.

4.6.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats

The Fork-tailed Swift is a transient of Australia, choosing to Figure 7: Distribution map for Apus pacificus breed in mainland Asia, as well as some of the islands off Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and Asia from the Kuril Islands to Formosa. It nests in cliff the Arts, 2009 crevices, or under the eaves of houses, or similar structures. Eggs are laid in June/July and the young leave the nest usually in the first week of August. Migration takes place at the end of August, and the Swift occurs in Australia between September and April. They are often associated with cyclonic storms, near which, they ‘hawk’ for insects on which they feed (Boehm & Sutherlands, 1962).

4.6.3 Discussion

There have been no reported sightings of the Fork-tailed Swift at Forrestania, and no records in surveys conducted at the site. If the species does frequent the area, any impact is likely to be negligible, as it does not breed within Australia. Furthermore, the Spotted Quoll proposal area presents a very small area in terms of potential habitat.

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 13 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

4.7 Slender-billed Thornbill (Acanthiza iredalei iredalei)

4.7.1 Status and distribution

The Slender-billed Thornbill (Acanthiza iredalei iredalei) is a small bird that occurs across much of the south-western regions of both Western Australia and South Australia as can be observed in Figure 8. It is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999.

4.7.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats Figure 8: Distribution map for the Slender-billed Thornbill Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 The Slender-billed Thornbill generally occurs in flocks of up to ten birds, and breed in solitary pairs. Its extent of occurrence does not appear to have declined; rather it has disappeared from several areas. A low-reliability estimate of the population size is 100 000 breeding birds, divided into seven subpopulations that are likely to be stable (DEWHA, 2009).

Chenopod shrub-lands dominated by samphires or Maireana and Atriplex associations are the thornbill’s preferred habitat (Morcombe, 2003); however, it occasionally occurs in adjacent acacia shrub-lands and mangroves. The species is likely to be a resident species, that occupies an area of up to 8 200 m2 during the breeding season (DEWHA, 2009).

The birds feed on insects, spiders, and centipedes, as well as stems and foliage of Maireana sedifolia, M. pyramidata, Atriplex vesicaria, Acacia tetragonophyllya and A. aneura (DEWHA, 2009).

Little information concerning breeding age, life span or breeding success of the Slender-billed Thornbill is known, which in part is owing to the shy and wary nature of the bird and the inaccessibility of its habitat. Breeding occurs from July to October, but may extend into November, with the bird laying between two and four eggs. The nests are generally placed in the upper branches of small samphire shrubs, or some Acacias such as aneura. The nests have a side entrance and are dome- or globular- shaped, and constructed of bark and grass bound by cobwebs, and lined with soft plant material (DEWHA, 2009).

Habitat degradation is the primary threat to the Slender-billed Thornbill, which is often caused by livestock and rabbits, and possibly on one occasion by the impact of mining activities. Nests are sometimes parasitised by cuckoos (DEWHA, 2009).

4.7.3 Discussion

There are no known records from CALM or the WA Museum records that show the species occurs within the Spotted Quoll project area. Furthermore, there have been no reported sightings of the Slender-billed Thornbill at Forrestania, and no records in surveys conducted at the site (Biota, 2006b;

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2006a; 2007a; 2007b); however, it is possible that this could be due to its shy nature. Some species of chenopod and Acacia are present in the proposed Spotted Quoll mine area. These include various species of Acacia, one saltbush species (Atriplex stipitata), two bluebush species (Maireana georgei and M. oppositifolia) and two burr species Sclerolaena uniflora, and S. diacantha (Botanica Consulting, 2008; 2007). However, none of the noted preferred food source plant species for the Slender-billed Thornbill are present in the area.

The main mine footprint is mostly Eucalyptus woodland with very few shrubs in the area (see Plate 3). Just north, there is an expansive area of juvenile eucalypts in close formation (Plate 5), which follows into Salmon Gum woodland (Plate 6), Eucalyptus woodland, Eucalyptus Mallee woodland and sand- plain heath (from Spotted Quoll, and north along the proposed haul-road corridor to Flying Fox, in order). Very little preferred habitat for the Slender-billed Thornbill is located in the proposed mine footprint. Hence, as this species has never been recorded in the Forrestania area, and there is little preferred habitat in the proposal footprint, it is unlikely that this proposal will impact at all on the conservation significance of this species. It is more likely for this species to be found in the chenopod and Mulga dominated vegetation communities in the drier areas to the north and east of Forrestania.

4.8 Chuditch (Dasyuris geoffroii)

4.8.1 Status and distribution

The Chuditch, or Western Quoll, is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. The Chuditch is Western Australian largest endemic carnivore (DEWHA, 2009). Its distribution is mostly in the southwest region of Western Australia as shown in Figure 9.

4.8.2 Population estimates and habitat Figure 9: Distribution map for Chuditch It is estimated that Chuditch formerly occupied 70% of Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 mainland Australia (DEWHA, 2009), however, in 1994, the Chuditch was estimated to occur in just 5% of its original range (Orell & Morris, 1994).

Chuditch chiefly occur in Jarrah forest and can traverse large distances of 150 km or more (DEWHA, 2009). The quoll’s home range can be as much as 1 000 Ha, according to Dr Peter Mawson (Senior Zoologist with the Nature Conservation Division of DEC), which makes it difficult to estimate population sizes as there is a degree of overlap of home ranges between animals. The Chuditch’s home range furthermore varies between the sexes, and is somewhat affected by habitat fragmentation. Estimates tend to vary according to method of calculation utilised, which includes variation in the Chuditch’s area of occupancy, which typically ranges from about 10 km2 to 25 km2 per quoll. Information of Chuditch-based population counts can be obtained from the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA; 2009) website.

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Trends in population size uses changes in trapping success, which is typically low for Chuditch as they are seasonally absent and have large home-ranges (DEWHA, 2009); trapping success has been recorded to be highest in June and July (Serena & Soderquist, 1988). Trapping success numbers may also be confounded by saturation by other non-target species, such as Woylies and Brushtail possums on which estimates of populations are based. As quoted by the DEWHA (2009), ‘there is no evidence to suggest that the Chuditch population is increasing, declining, or is stable’.

Most types of wooded habitats are utilised by the Chuditch within its current distribution; such areas include Eucalypt forest, dry woodland, and mallee shrub-lands (Serena & Soderquist, 1988). However, the Chuditch may be able to inhabit dry sclerophyll forests, beaches and deserts as suggested by its previous distribution (Burbridge, et al, 1988; Shortridge, 1909). Riparian forest has provided the densest populations of Chuditch (DEWHA, 2009), presumably due to the abundance of food in these areas (Orell & Morris, 1994).

Large invertebrates, supplemented by small mammals, birds and lizards form much of the Chuditch’s diet (Orell & Morris, 1994), as well as some plant matter (DEWHA, 2009) and carrion. Foraging generally occurs on the ground at night, though they are capable of climbing trees to catch prey or escape from predators (Orell & Morris, 1994).

Suitable dens for Chuditch include earth burrows, or logs at least 30 cm in diameter with a hollow of between 7-20 mm and about one metre long (Orell & Morris, 1994). According to Orell & Morris (1994), an adult female will use 66 logs and 110 burrows within her home range as an estimated average.

4.8.3 Lifecycle

The Chuditch lifespan is not known, but is estimated at two to three years (DEWHA, 2009), and is not beyond four years (Soderquist, 1988). Chuditch in captivity, however, have been known to live for 5.5 years (Serena, Soderquist, & Morris, 1991).

Both females and males can breed in their first year. Females show the greatest fecundity in their first year with over half the female breeding population falling into this category; the highest success in males is achieved in their second year (Orell & Morris, 1994). The breeding season begins in April with young being born between May and September (Stead-Richardson et al., 2001). Young are pouch- bound for their first two months, before being left in the den (Orell & Morris, 1994). At five to six- months of age they are weaned (DEWHA, 2009). Weaned females will remain close to the maternal home range; however, males disperse within two weeks of weaning (Soderquist & Serena, 2000).

4.8.4 Threats

Threats include those posed by predation by the European Red Fox, as well as cats that also compete with the Quoll for available food (Shortridge, 1909). Populations close to road networks are threatened by traffic. Furthermore, the effect of feral cat baits on Chuditch is not known. Drowning is a possibility in some locations; however, this is unlikely as Chuditch are capable of swimming. Disease may pose another threat.

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4.8.5 Discussion

Studies in the Flying Fox area have resulted in captures of Chuditch (Biota, 2006a; 2007a). Biota (2006a) in November 2005 caught a single animal using an Elliot trap. An adult female was captured in Phase III (May 2006) using a cage trap, and in Phase IV (November 2006), a single sub-adult female was captured twice (Biota, 2007a). All captures were made at a single trapping location that forms a line approximately 300 to 650 m from the Flying Fox box-cut, parallel to the north-end of the extension to the existing dewatering pipeline road. Confirmed sightings have been recorded near the Flying Fox Administration building, and at Spotted Quoll. A fire in the 1990’s destroyed many of the large trees and logs (Johnstone, Johnstone, & Kirkby, 2008) in the Spotted Quoll area and elsewhere that would act as suitable dens for Chuditch.

The main threat facing Chuditch as stated by the DEHWA is predation by the European Red Fox, and feral cats that compete for available food sources. Western Areas NL conducts an annual 1080 baiting programme to manage wild dogs on WSA tenements as part of the sponsorship of the Eastern Wheatbelt Declared Species Group that targets wild dogs in the eastern Wheatbelt. On-site environmental staff conducts trapping exercises to control feral cats on WSA tenements.

As the size and dynamics of the local population of Chuditch is unknown, Western Areas NL is working with the DEC (WA) and the University of Western Australia (UWA), to conduct a survey of Chuditch on WSA tenements, which will begin in February 2009. From this, WSA hopes to better establish information on Chuditch numbers and distribution, and likely habitats in the area to develop more customised management strategies to better protect the species.

Dependant on the results of the first phase of the monitoring program, a Chuditch relocation program will be implemented in consultation with the DEC within the Spotted Quoll mine footprint area.

The Spotted Quoll mining proposal will increase traffic to the Spotted Quoll area. Increased traffic obviously increases the relatively risk that Chuditch may be killed. Hence, management strategies will be devised to manage this risk with the aim to ensure that mining operations do not negatively impact quoll populations. The most likely measures to be implemented will include signage, and speed limitations on access tracks and haul roads. The supporting EPS documentation included as a supplement to this document includes details of other management measures to be undertaken.

Clearing for the proposal poses some risk, however, much of the area is relatively open, and the haul- road only involves the widening of an existing track. Furthermore, very few logs in the area are suitable as Chuditch dens.

Induction to site includes information on Chuditch, including likely locations, behaviour, etc., with contractors and personnel being asked to report sightings.

A Fire Management Plan will be implemented to manage the risk of fire in the area.

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4.9 Red-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale calura)

4.9.1 Status and distribution

The Red-tailed Phascogale is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Its distribution is shown in Figure 10.

4.9.2 Habitat, lifecycle and threats

The Red-tailed Phascogale is a small, arboreal, carnivorous Figure 10: Distribution map for the marsupial (DEWHA, 2009), inhabiting the central-and southern Red-tailed Phascogale

Wheatbelt regions of Western Australia with an annual rainfall of Source: Department of the Environment, Water, 350 – 600 mm (Bradley, 1998). Its preferred habitat includes Heritage and the Arts, 2009 Allocasuarina hueglianna (granite she-oak) woodland associations with hollow-containing Eucalypts such as Eucalyptus wandoo (Kitchener, 1981); however, it has also been found in other woodlands and mallee-scrub (DEWHA, 2009). Remnant phascogale populations have a strong association with Gastrolobium species that contain the poison 1080 or sodium monofluoroacetate (Kitchener, 1981). They prefer an unburnt landscape with continuous canopy with hollows and logs for nesting (DEWHA, 2009).

Prior to the 1800s, the phascogale was widespread across Western Australia and extended to the Murray Darling basin (Bradley, 1998); current distribution of the phascogale is ‘severely fragmented’ (DEWHA, 2009).

There are no published estimates of the population size of the Red-tailed Phascogale, as it exists in small, scattered subpopulations. Furthermore, annual male die-off is demonstrated in the species resulting in fluctuation in the population size (DEWHA, 2009). The species lives for approximately two years (DEWHA, 2009).

Areas unburnt for at least 20 years seem to support greater population numbers of Red-tailed Phascogale (Kitchener, 1981); this is due to high mortality rates in fire (Friend & Friend, 1993), and subsequent low recovery rates (Department of the Environment, 2007). Red-tailed Phascogales have a home range of between 1.5 – 8 Ha that varies during the breeding season (DEWHA, 2009).

There is a large disparity between male and female longevity in the Red-tailed phascogale: the female lives up to 36 months, however, the male only lives up to 11.5 months. This is a result of the male annual die-off, whereby the male population perishes following the winter mating season (Bradley, 1998). Mortality results from acute haemorrhage of gastrointestinal ulcers resulting from persistently high levels of stress caused by physiological changes (Bradley, 1998).

Recorded nesting sites for the Red-tailed Phascogale include hollow logs, tree hollows (Bradley, 1998; Kitchener, 1981) and stumps of Grass Trees (Maxwell, Burbridge, & Morris, 1996). Young are born in August; and six to eight are reared per year (DEWHA, 2009). The young stay with the female from August to October, after which, they disperse (DEWHA, 2009).

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A possible threat to Red-tailed Phascogale populations includes consecutive dry seasons. In a study conducted by Friend and Scanlon (1996), they found that high juvenile mortality was experienced in dry years. It can therefore be reasoned that as females only live a maximum of three years, that three consecutive dry seasons may be catastrophic to the population, especially considering that most of the breeding females are only one year old.

Though arboreal, the Red-tailed phascogale generally forages on the ground preying on a wide range of insects and spiders (Bradley, 1998), as well as small birds and mammals (DEWHA, 2009). It is not thought that the phascogale requires standing water to survive (Kitchener, 1981).

Cats can have a significant impact on the phascogale population, as they are capable of climbing trees; foxes can prey on them when they are foraging on the ground (Foster et al., 2006). Fire is a significant threat, as it not only kills animals, but also renders the landscape unsuitable for phascogale habitation for a number of years following. Habitat degradation, as well as traffic are other threats to the Red- tailed Phascogale.

4.9.3 Discussion

There have been no sightings of Red-tailed Phascogales, nor have there been any found in site fauna surveys; however, due to their timid nature, they are not readily seen in their natural environment (DEWHA, 2009). Allocasuarina huegliana and Eucalyptus wandoo woodland associations that are the preferred habitat of the Red-tailed Phascogale do not occur within the proposed footprint of the Spotted Quoll mine. Much of the project area has been previously disturbed by fire and by exploration activities, and as a result is less favourable to Phascogale habitation.

A significant threat to Red-tailed Phascogale is predation, especially by cats. Western Areas NL sponsors the Eastern Wheatbelt Declared Species Group and conducts a wild dog baiting and trapping programme. Furthermore, WSA staff conducts trapping exercises targeting feral cats on WSA tenements. These aim to control, and reduce, the number of feral animals that could impact on native animal populations.

Although there is a chance that this species does inhabit the area in low numbers, the proposal is considered a minimal risk to the conservation status of the species.

5.0 FLORA

Flora species protected under the EPBC Act 1999 (Cth) threatened species and communities provisions, are classified as Declared Rare Flora (DRF) under the Western Australian Wildlife Conservation Act 1950. The Protected Matters Search Tool (DEWHA, 2006) identified seven EPBC Act 1999 (Cth) protected plant species recognised as potentially occurring within the Forrestania area. Of these, only three have been recorded in site flora surveys - Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla, Boronia revoluta, and Eucalyptus steedmanii, and only E. steedmanii occurs in close proximity to the project area (Botanica Consulting, 2008).

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5.1 Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla (Ironcaps Banksia)

5.1.1 Status and distribution

Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. The species is located to the east of the cleared agricultural regions of the southern Wheatbelt in south-western Western Australia, where it grows between Mt Holland and the South Ironcap; its distribution is outlined in Figure 11.

5.1.2 Habitat , description, and threats Figure 11: Distribution map for Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla There are approximately 2 400 plants located in seven Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 different populations (Mollemans, Brown, & Coats, 1993). The plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow to 4 m by 4 m. It produces spherical-shaped yellow flowers (DEWHA, 2009) from March through to May (George, 1996) that are pollinated by wasps, bees, and ants (Taylor & Hopper, 1988).

The populations that occur closest to the Forrestania tenements include those on the North Ironcap, which comprises of more than 100 plants; Forrestania with more than 50 plants, the South Ironcap with more than 1000 plants, and southeast of the South Ironcap that has more than 500 plants. These were all surveyed between 1989 and 1990 (DEWHA, 2009).

Banksia sphaerocarpa var. dolichostyla prefers iron-capped hills and rises on ironstone soil profiles. It is found in low woodlands or shrub-lands (DEWHA, 2009) with an annual rainfall of approximately 300 mm (George, 1996), and is often associated with Dryandra and Allocasuarina species (Hopper et al., 1990). The species is fire tolerant as it posseses a lignotuber (George, 1996).

The Australian Government Biodiversity website (2007) outlines changed fire regimes, changed hydrology, increased fragmentation, and loss of vegetation remnants and exotic weeds as potential threats to the Banksia.

5.1.3 Discussion

This species has been found in site flora surveys adjacent to the Digger Rocks project area in close proximity to the South Ironcap. It has not been identified in the vicinity of the Spotted Quoll mining proposal footprint (Botanica Consulting, 2007; 2008), which is in support of its preference for ironstone ridges, the closest of which occurs some 12 km to the southeast. Given that clearing in the project area will largely contain previously disturbed land and the fact that there is no preferred habitat for the species in the area, it is very unlikely that the Ironcaps Banksia will be affected by the proposal.

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5.2 Eucalyptus steedmanii (Steedman’s Gum)

5.2.1 Status and distribution

Eucalyptus steedmanii is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999. Figure 12 shows the distribution of E. steedmanii. It is limited to six known populations in an area approximately 80 km east of Hyden, in the Forrestania to North Ironcap areas.

5.2.2 Habitat , description, and threats

Eucalyptus steedmanii is a mallet tree, 2-8 m high, with smooth bark, white flowers and distinctive four-sided winged fruit. The flowering period is from January Figure 12: Distribution of Eucalyptus steedmanii through to March (Department of Environment and Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 Conservation, 2008). They prefer gravely-loam soils

over ironstone, sand, and undulating plains (Department of Environment and Conservation, 2008).

There are six known populations of E. steedmanii, with the third population being divided into two sub-populations. A further population exists approximately 900 m northeast of the project area that was found in a recent survey conducted by Botanica Consulting (report not yet available). Sometimes identification can be difficult owing to the immature forms of E. steedmanii (i.e., non fruit-bearing trees) being very similar in appearance to E. eremophila, a common species of the area.

The DEWHA (2008) states fire as the most significant risk to the conservation status of Steedman’s Gum, as it kills adult plants. Though regeneration by seed has been observed (Brown, Thomson-Dans, & Marchant, 1998), there are suggestions that following a fire, E. steedmanii may be outcompeted by other Eucalypt species. The DEWHA also recognises firebreak maintenance and recreation activities, as well as mining operations and mineral exploration as being risk’s to the species. Broad scale vegetation clearing, altered hydrology, increased fragmentation, loss of remnants, exotic weeds, and again fire are identified by the Australian Government Biodiversity Assessment website (2007) as being potential risks to the species.

5.2.3 Discussion

Populations 1, 2, and 3a/3b are found on mining tenement M77/583. Two of the three populations located on M77/583 occur within relatively close proximity of the Spotted Quoll project (i.e., populations 1 and 3a/3b). Botanica Consulting has recently (i.e., Autumn and Spring 2008) assessed the number, health, and seed status of these populations. The health of all populations was considered good, and all populations showed some seed-set with mature seed being present in many cases.

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Table 1 below shows the estimated tree numbers that are present at each population of E. steedmanii excluding population 6. It should be noted that this estimation is considered to be of low reliability by WSA and further monitoring will be conducted to improve the reliability of these estimates.

Table 1: E. steedmanii population size assessment Population No. Approximate area of Average density in Extrapolated population population (Ha) 10m x 10m plot 1 29.73 93 276,489 2 2.98 30 8,940 3a/3b 2.67 16 4,272 4 115.4 334 3,854,360 5 54.19 226 1,224,694 6 N/A N/A N/A Total 5,368,755

The northern extent of E. steedmanii population 3a or 3b is located approximately 40 m south from the proposed pit boundary. Based on the estimates of population numbers in Table 1, this population makes up less than 1 % of the total number of plants found in the area. Population 3a/3b will not be impacted by clearing for the project and is excluded from the clearing envelope. However, given the relatively close proximity to the proposed pit the population is at some risk of being impacted by accidental vegetation clearance and dust generated from pit development and waste dumping operations.

Atmos (2009) has estimated the relative risk of exposure from dust emissions from the waste dump, pit and ROM pad to be not likely to cause significant environmental risk if dust emissions are actively controlled.

In addition, there is a small risk that some trees in population 1, which is located approximately 100 m to the east of the proposed haul road between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox may be impacted indirectly by dust. This is a more significant population that makes up approximately 5% of the total number of plants found in the area. The risk is considered to be low as only about eight ore road trains will use the road per day and the haul road will be actively watered using a water truck with a dribble bar during dusty conditions. There is approximately a 100 m buffer between the proposed haul road and the DRF populations.

The principle risk to E. steedmanii has been identified as being uncontrolled wildfire. E. steedmanii is a mallet and does not have a lignotuber from which it can coppice after significant disturbance (DEWHA, 2009). Hence, if a major fire event were to occur without a viable seed stock, then the impact could be severe. Given that the seed-set appears to be quite good amongst the populations, and that regeneration from seed stock has been good in populations affected previously by fire (e.g., the major fire events of 1994), the risk of devastating loss due to wildfire is considered by WSA to be minimal. In addition, WSA will undertake seed collection from all E. steedmanii populations (in consultation with the DEC) near the project for storage at the Threatened Flora Seed Centre.

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Vegetation clearing operations have also been flagged as a potential threat to E.steedmanii populations due to the possibility of over-clearing occurring. WSA will implement strict clearing controls to ensure that no E. steedmanii individuals or populations are impacted during clearing operations associated with the project.

Proposed management measures to ensure the protection of the populations of E. steedmanii in the vicinity of the Spotted Quoll project area footprint are noted in the EPS document included as supporting documentation with this submission.

5.3 Eremophila viscida (Varnish Bush)

5.3.1 Status and distribution

Eremophila viscida is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Its distribution can be seen in Figure 13 (right).

5.3.2 Habitat, description, and threats

Varnish bush is a shrub that is 1.2- 6 m high (Phillimore et al., 2003; Department of Figure 13: Distribution map for Eremophila viscida Environmental and Conservation, 2008); It is Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 generally found in granitic, sandy-loam or

red brown clay-loam, and in stony gullies and sand-plains (Department of Environmental and Conservation, 2008; Phillimore et al., 2003), as well as in association with salt lake systems (Phillimore, et al, 2003). Flowers are greyish or reddish, and are strongly veined with purple spots.

All known habitat is considered critical to the survival of the species including translocated populations (Phillimore et al, 2003). Phillimore et al., (2003) states the critical habitat of the species includes:

“the area of occupancy of known populations; areas of similar habitat within 200 metres of known populations (brown, sandy loam or red brown clay loam soils, in open woodland in association with Eucalyptus loxophleba and scrub vegetation) that provide potential habitat for natural recruitment); remnant vegetation that surrounds and links populations (this is necessary to allow pollinators to move between populations); additional occurrences of similar habitat that do not currently contain the species but may have done so in the past (these represent possible translocation sites); and the local catchment for the surface and ground waters that provide the ephemeral creek-line habitat of the species (the species occurs in areas that are seasonally inundated and depend on the local hydrology)”

The central threats to the Varnish Bush are poor recruitment as a result of a ‘lack of appropriate disturbance’, weeds, rising salinity and water-logging, silting, erosion, road, track and firebreak

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maintenance including powerline maintenance and trampling and grazing by animals such as rabbits. Fire may be beneficial to the species for recruitment purposes provided there is an adequate seed stock in the soil (Phillimore et al., 2003).

5.3.3 Discussion

Eremophila viscida is not known to occur in the Forrestania area according to records on the DEC’s FloraBase website (see Figure 14, right). In addition, no E. viscida specimens have been recorded in flora surveys conducted on behalf of WSA (Botanica Consulting, 2007; 2008). Hence, the Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox areas do not meet the first three criteria for critical habitats for the Varnish Bush, as outlined by Phillimore. Furthermore, the area does not support vegetation communities seasonally reliant on inundation. The proposed haul-road through this section overlies an already existing track, hence, disturbance to the area will be Figure 14: Distribution map for Eremophila minimal, and so it is very unlikely that this species will be viscida

impacted by the proposal. Source: Department of Environment and Conservation, Florabase website: http://florabase.dec.wa.gov.au

5.4 Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor (Little Kangaroo Paw)

5.4.1 Status and distribution

Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor, or Little Kangaroo Paw, is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Distribution of the Little Kangaroo Paw is shown in Figure 15.

5.4.2 Habitat , description, and threats

The Little Kangaroo Paw grows up to 0.6 m in height and is a Figure 15: Distribution map for rhizomatous, perennial herb (Department of Environment and Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor Conservation, 2008) It inhabits various soil types including clay, Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009 loam, sands, laterite, and granite outcrops, as well as wet areas and road verges. It has red and green flowers in August through to October (Department of Environment and Conservation, 2008).

Increasing fragmentation and loss of remnants is listed on the Australian Natural Resources website (Australian Government, 2007) as a potential threat to the species.

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5.4.3 Discussion

According to the DEC’s FloraBase Website, known records of the Little Kangaroo Paw do not occur within the project area (see Figure 16).

In addition it has not been identified in any of the flora surveys conducted in the area (Botanica Consulting, 2007; 2008), or on WSA tenements, and therefore, it is unlikely to occur in the proposed area. The project consists largely of previously disturbed areas. Considering that the Little Kangaroo Paw is not known to occur in the general area and that disturbance will be relatively minimal, it is not expected

that the species will be affected by the proposal. Figure 16: Distribution map for Anigozanthos bicolor subsp. Minor

Source: Department of Environment and Conservation, website: http://florabase.dec.wa.gov.au

5.5 Grevillea involucrata (Lake Varley Grevillea)

5.5.1 Status and distribution

Lake Varley Grevillea is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Its distribution can be seen in Figure 17 (left).

5.5.2 Habitat , description, and threats

Lake Varley Grevillea is a small shrub up to 30 cm high with branchlets. Pink irregular flowers can be observed between Figure 17: Distribution map for Grevillea involucrata June to October, and following flowering, ellipsoidal fruit. It Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and is generally found amongst low to medium trees, or low the Arts, 2009 sclerophyll shrub-land. It occupies lateritic ridges, and prefers rocky or stony soil, or loam or sand (Department of Environment and Conservation, 2008). Grevillea involucrata is known to exist between Hyden and Lake Magnet (Durell & Beuhrig, 2001)

The threats to Lake Varley Grevillea as outlined by the Australian Government Biodiversity Assessment website (2007) include broad scale vegetation clearing, changed fire regimes changed hydrology, increased fragmentation and loss of vegetation remnants, and exotic weeds.

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5.5.3 Discussion

According to the DEC’s FloraBase website know records of Lake Varley Grevillea do not occur within the project area (see Figure 18).

The Lake Varley Grevillea has not been identified in any of the flora surveys conducted in the project area (Botanica Consulting, 2007; 2008), or on WSA tenements. The project consists largely of previously disturbed areas. Considering that the Grevillea is not known to occur in the general area and that disturbance will be relatively minimal, it is not expected that the species will be affected by the proposal.

Figure 18: Distribution map for Grevillea involucrata

Source: Department of Environment and Conservation, website: http://florabase.dec.wa.gov.au

5.6 Roycea pycnophylloides (Saltmat)

5.6.1 Status and distribution

Roycea pycnophylloides is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Figure 19 shows the distribution of Saltmat in Western Australia. It is isolated to the south-west corner of the state.

5.6.2 Habitat , description, and threats

Saltmat is a dense perennial herb, silver in colour and up to

1 m in diameter. It prefers sandy or clayey soils and saline Figure 19: Distribution map for Roycean flats. It flowers in September (Department of Environment pycnophylloides and Conservation, 2008). Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009

Threats to Saltmat as outlined by the Australian Government Biodiversity Assessment website (2007) include the following: changed hydrology, changed fire regimes, broad scale vegetation clearing, exotic weeds and increased fragmentation and loss of vegetation remnants.

5.6.3 Discussion

Saltmat appears to inhabit a narrow range of soil types preferring sandy or clayey soil and saline flats. There are no saline flats in the Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox areas making its occurrence very unlikely within the project area. No records of the species exist from various surveys conducted in the area (Botanica Consulting, 2007; 2008; Frost O'Connor & Associates, 2004), or on WSA tenements. The

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project consists largely of previously disturbed areas. Considering that Saltmat is not known to occur in the general area, that the area is not preferred habitat and that disturbance will be relatively minimal, it is not expected that the species will be affected at all by the proposal.

5.7 Boronia revoluta (Ironcap Boronia)

5.7.1 Status and distribution

Boronia revoluta is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999. Figure 20 shows the general location of the species with Western Australia. It is restricted to an approximate 40 km range within the South Ironcap-Hatters Hill area that lies northeast of Lake King in Western Australia (Leigh, Boden, & Briggs, 1984). It has been collected from only three locations on ironstone hills within it’s range as follows; Hatters Hill (approximately 60 plants), South Ironcap (approximately 400-500 plants) and Middle Ironcap where this species has not been found since 1976 (Buehrig, 1997; Duretto, 1999). Figure 20: Distribution map for Boronia revoluta 5.7.2 Habitat , description, and threats Source: Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009

Ironcap Boronia is an erect shrub, 0.5 – 1.5 m in height, with many branches and pale to dark pink flowers (Leigh, Boden, & Briggs, 1984; Hopper, van Leeuwen, Brown, & Patrick, 1990; Duretto, 1996) Duretto, 1996) from July to October, and producing fruit from September to December (Duretto, 1996). According to Leigh et al. (Leigh, Boden, & Briggs, 1984), Hopper et al. (Hopper, van Leeuwen, Brown, & Patrick, 1990), Brown et al. (Brown, Thomson-Dans, & Marchant, 1998), and (Duretto, 1996), it is probably restricted to ironstone hills growing in cracks in the rocks.

According to Australian Government Biodiversity Assessment website (2007) threats to the species include changed fire regimes, changed hydrology, increased fragmentation, and loss of remnants as well as invasion by exotic weeds.

5.7.3 Discussion

Boronia revoluta is known to occur in the area: it was reported as being present on the Middle Ironcap in 1976; however, a 1992 search did not uncover the species (Brown, Thomson-Dans, & Marchant, 1998; Duretto, 1996). The Middle Ironcap is approximately 12 km from the Spotted Quoll project area. Two records of populations exist in the Narrogin district, these being east of Varley (Durell & Beuhrig, 2001). No records of the species exist for the general Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox project areas. As the disturbance will be relatively minimal for the project owing to a high proportion of previously disturbed land being utilised, it is not expected that the species will be impacted by the proposal.

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 27 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

6.0 CONCLUSION

Five species from those outlined by the EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool are known to occur in proximity (within several kilometres) to the Spotted Quoll project area. These are Steedman’s Gum, Chuditch, Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo, Malleefowl, and the Rainbow Bee-eater.

The risk of the Rainbow Bee-eater being negatively impacted by the proposal is regarded as low. Only two observations have been noted to date for the species, and these were in 2006. Hence, the Rainbow Bee- eater can occur in the area, however, it does not appear to frequent the area in significant numbers. The most notable threats are those during the breeding season to eggs and nestlings resulting in inadequate recruitment rates. As it is believed that the species is unlikely breed in this area, this threat is believed to be negligible.

While Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoo is known to occur in the area, it has never been sighted at Spotted Quoll. Evidence of an old nesting hollow was found along the proposed haul-road route between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox together with old evidence of the species feeding on Dryandra flowers in close proximity to Flying Fox.

Forrestania is on the verge of the distribution for the Carnaby’s Cockatoo, and very small numbers of Carnaby’s occur in the region during the breeding season. Few trees are present in the mine proposal area that has hollows suitable for nesting. Hence, the potential impact of the proposal on the conservation significance of Carnaby’s Cockatoo is considered low as potential foraging grounds will be maintained, and large trees will be avoided wherever possible. Clearing will take place outside the breeding season where possible. In addition, birds can shift nesting sites to the extensive stands of Salmon Gum woodland neighbouring the Spotted Quoll project area to the south and east of Spotted Quoll.

The risk to malleefowl for the proposal is considered low to medium. Little preferred habitat is located in the project area owing to a fire in the mid 1990’s. However, Malleefowl can have large home ranges, so although no Malleefowl mounds were found in or near the project area, and no sightings have been reported, it is possible for local birds to use the area. The most significant risk to Malleefowl is predation. Western Areas NL conducts an annual baiting programme to control wild dogs. Traffic is probably the most significant impact that the proposal could potentially have on the Malleefowl. Speeds will be limited to 80 km/hr along the main haul roads and to 40 km/hr within the SQ mining area. In addition, a further search will be undertaken within 100 m of proposed development areas prior to clearing taking place.

The most significant threat to Chuditch proposed by the mining proposal is traffic, which is minimised by reduced speed limits on WSA tenements. Very few suitable habitat logs exist in the area owing to a previous fire; this suggests that few Chuditch may inhabit the area. Whereby Chuditch are found to occur within the project footprint, a trapping and relocation programme will be undertaken prior to the commencement of clearing for the project. Very little Chuditch habitat is likely to be taken, as a lot of the area to be cleared comprises of already disturbed habitat. Hence, the risk to the Chuditch is estimated to be low to medium. It is not considered that the project will have a significant negative effect on the conservation status of the species, or on its habitat.

Due to it’s proximity to the project area, E. steedmanii is the species with the most significant risk of incurring some impact; however the risk posed to this species is readily managed. Surface hydrology will

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 28 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

change little, as culverts will be included in the haul-road design. The populations of Steedman’s Gum do not rely on groundwater for survival. In the Spotted Quoll area the groundwater is typically more than 30 m below ground level and is between 40 000 – 120 000 mg/L TDS, which is toxic to plants (seawater is about 35 000 mg/L TDS). Dewatering at the currently operational Flying Fox mine has not affected vegetation within the drawdown zone of influence. In addition, anecdotally, historical mining operations at Flying Fox, Cosmic Boy and Digger Rocks which were operated between 1992 and 1999 by Outokumpu Mining Australia have not resulted in any impact to vegetation from the significant dewatering that took place (for example approximately 8 000 000 m3 of groundwater was pumped from the Digger Rocks operation between 1992 and 1999). This is also the case for other neighbouring mining operations located in a similar environment (e.g., Lake Johnston operations 80 km east and Blue Haze and Bounty operations 15 – 30 km north.

There will be no direct impact to Steedman’s gum as infrastructure is located away from populations and individuals. The closest population is located approximately 40 m to the south of the proposed pit (i.e., population 3a/3b) and the closest individuals (four in total) are located adjacent to a section of the haul- road between Flying Fox and Spotted Quoll. Western Areas does not believe that these will be affected by the project; however, a DEC Permit to Take DRF in Management Operation has been applied for in regards to these plants to cover for any accidental taking of this species. Dust generated from operations is a threat, however, effective dust management measures will be implemented along with monitoring to enable the risk to be assessed and minimised.

Fire is considered one of the major risks to Steedman’s Gum. A fire management plan will be implemented at the site to reduce the risk of a wildfire occurring at the site. In addition, seed will be collected (in consultation with the DEC) from all populations located within close proximity to the project prior to commencement. This seed will be stored at the DEC’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre and can potentially be used in rehabilitation and in re-establishment in the unlikely event that there is a significant adverse impact to any of the populations. Strict clearing controls will be implemented during clearing operations to ensure that no E. steedmanii populations or individuals are impacted through accidental clearing.

The accompanying Environmental Protection Statement (EPS) document prepared as a part of the Western Australian Environmental Impact Assessment approvals process provides details on the management strategies that will be implemented with regard to the relevant threatened species reviewed in this document.

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 29 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

7.0 PLATES

These plates are a series of photographs taken from approximately 500 m south of the pit area at Spotted Quoll (SQ; Plate 1), the SQ footprint area (Plates 3 and 4), and along the proposed haul road to approximately 1.5 km m south of the Flying Fox (FF) Mine.

Plate 1: Burnt area approximately 600 m south of SQ pit area Plate 1: Open eucalypt shrub-land approximately 500 m south of the SQ pit area

Plate 3: Spotted Quoll - general area of open pit (midground)

Plate 4: Spotted Quoll footprint and pit area Plate 5: North of Plate 4

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 30 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

Plate 6: Small stand of mature eucalypts along edge of Plate 7: A patch of immature eucalypts just north of Plate 6 proposed haul road (about halfway between FF and SQ)

Plate 8: Eucalyptus mallee woodland north of Plate 7 Plate 9: Shrubland approximatley 1.5 km south of the Flying Fox footprint along the proposed haul road

Review of flora and fauna protected under the EPBC Act 1999, as reported by Protected Matters Search Tool for Spotted Quoll 31 Western Areas N.L. Forrestania Nickel Project

8.0 REFERENCES

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The conservation ecology of Malleefowl, with particular regard to fire. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Biota. (2007b). Diggers South Fauna Survey - Phase I. Leederville: Biota Environmental Sciences. Biota. (2007a). Forrestania Fauna Monitoring Survey - Flying Fox Phases III and IV. Leederville: Biota Environmental Services. Biota. (2006a). Forrestania Fauna Survey. North Perth: Biota Environmental Sciences. Biota. (2006b). Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey. North Perth: Biota Envionmental Services. Boehm, E. F., & Sutherlands, S. A. (1962). Some Habits of the fork-tailed Swift. CSIRO , 281-282. Boland, C. R. (2004). Breeding biology of Rainbow Bee-eaters (Merops ornatus): a migratory, colonial, cooperative bird. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Botanica Consulting. (2008). Vegetation Survey of New Morning to Spotted Quoll Area within the Tenements M77/583 and M77/545. Botanica. Botanica Consulting. (2007). Vegetation Survey of New Morning to Willy Willy Area within the Tenements M77/583 and M77/545. Botanica. Bradley, A. J. (1998). The Mammals of Australia, Second Edition, Revised. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Brown, A., Thomson-Dans, C., & Marchant, N. (1998). Western Australia's Threatened Flora. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Burbridge, A. A., Johnson, K. A., Fuller, P. J., & Southgate, R. I. (1988). Aboriginal knowledge of the mammals of the central deserts of Australia. Australian Wildlife Research , 9-39. Cale, B. (2003). Carnaby's Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris) Recovery Plan 2002-2012. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Cleland, J B; Maiden, J H; Froggatt, W W; Ferguson, E W; Musson, C T. (1918). The food of Australian birds. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Department of Environment and Conservation. (2008). Retrieved January 11, 2009, from FloraBase: http://www.florabase.calm.wa.gov.au Department of the Environment, W. H. (2007). Carnaby's Black-Cockatoo. Retrieved January 10, 2009, from Australian Threatened Species: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/pubs/black-cockatoo.pdf DEWHA. (2008, December 16). Eucalyptus steedmanii (Steedmans Gum). Retrieved February 6, 2009, from Department of Environment: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/15393-conservation-advice.pdf DEWHA. (2009). Species Profile and Threats Database. Retrieved 01 09, 2009, from Calyptorhynchus latirostris: http://www.environmental.gov.au/sprat Durell, G., & Beuhrig, R. (2001). Declared Rare and Poorly Kown Flora in the Narrogin District. Narrogin: Department of Conservatio and Land Management. Duretto, M. F. (1996). Muelleria:Systematics of Boronia section Valvatae sensu lato (Rutaceae). In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Forshaw, J. M., & Cooper, W. T. (1987). Kingfishers and Related Birds. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Theats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Foster, W. K., Bradley, A. J., Caton, W., & Taggart, D. A. (2006). Comparison of growth and development of the red-tailed phascogale (Phascogale calura) in three captive colonies. Australian Journal of Zoology , 343-352. Friend, J. A., & Scanlon, M. D. (1996). An assessment of the effect of fox control on populations of the red-tailed phascogale: Phase 4. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government.

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Friend, T., & Friend, G. (1993). Conservation of the red-tailed Phascogale (located in Dryandra Woodland, Tutannning Nature Reserve and the easter block of Boyagin Nature Reserve). In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Frith, H. J. (1956). Breeding habits in the family Megapodiidae. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Frith, H. J. (1959). Breeding of the Mallee Fowl, Leipoa ocellata, Gould (Megapodiidae). CSIRO Wildlife Research , 31-60. Frost O'Connor & Associates. (2004). Flora and Vegation Studies - Flying Fox. Frost O'Connor & Associates. Fry, C. H. (1984). The Bee-eaters. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Garnett, S. T., & Crowley, G. M. (2000). The Action Plan for Australian Birds 2000. Retrieved January 9, 2009, from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/action/birds2000/index.html George, A S. (1996). The Banksia Book. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Gibson, N. (2004). Flora and vegetation of the Eastern Goldfields Ranges: Part 7. Middle and South Ironcap. Journal of the Royal Society of Western Australia , 49-62. Higgins, P. J. (1999). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds - Volume 4: Parrots to Dollarbird. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Hopper, S. D., van Leeuwen, S., Brown, A. P., & Patrick, S. J. (1990). Western Australia's Endangered Flora and other plants under consideration for declaration. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Johnstone, R. E., & Storr, G. M. (1998). Handbook of Western Australian Birds. Vol.1: Non-passerines. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Johnstone, R. E., Johnstone, C., & Kirkby, T. (2008). Assessment of Signficant Habitat for Carnaby's Cockatoo, Western Rosella and Chuditch in the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal, Forrestania. Kitchener, D J. (1981). Breeding, diet and habitat preference of Phascogale calura in the southern wheat belt, Western Australia. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Lea, A. M., & Gray, J. T. (1935). The food of Australian birds: an analsyiss of stomach contents, Part 2. In Emu, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Leigh, J., Boden, R., & Briggs, J. (1984). Extinct and Endangered Plants of Australia. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Lill, A. (1993). Breeding of Rainbow Bee-eaters in southern Victoria. In Corella, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Marchant, S., & Higgins, P. J. (2003). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds (Volume 2). In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Mawson, P. (1997). A captive breeding program for Carnaby's Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris. Eclectus , 3:21-23. Maxwell, S., Burbridge, A. A., & Morris, K. (1996). The 1996 Action Plan for Australian Marsupials and Monotremes. Retrieved January 11, 2009, from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/action Mollemans, F. H., Brown, P. H., & Coats, D. J. (1993). Declared rare flora and other plants in need of special protection in the Merredin District (excluding the Wongan-Ballidu Shire). In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Morcombe, M. (2003). Field Guide to Australian Birds. Archerfield: Steve Parish Publishing Pty Ltd. Orell, P., & Morris, K. (1994). Chuditch Recovery Plan 1992-2001. Wanneroo: CALM. Phillimore, R., Evans, R., Brown, A., & English, V. (2003). Varnish bush (Eremophila viscida) Interim Recovery Plan 2003 - 2008. Department of Conservation and Land Management. Pittman, H. R., Scott, D., Stojanovic, & McLellan, L. (2007). Caring for Carnaby's. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Priddel, D., & Wheeler, R. (1994). Mortality of captive-raised malleefowl, Leipoa ocellata, released into a mallee remnant within the wheat-belt of New South Wales. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Priddel, D., & Wheeler, R. (1995). The Biology and Management of the Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata) in New South Wales: Species Management Report. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Saunders, D A. (1980). Food and movements of the short-billed form of the White-tailed Black Cockatoo. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government.

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Saunders, D A. (1982). The breeding behaviour of the short-billed form of the White-tailed Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Saunders, D. A. (1977). The effect of agricultural clearing on the breeding success of the White-tailed Black Cockatoo. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Saunders, D. A., & Ingram, J. A. (1995). Birds of Southwestern Australia. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Saunders, D. A., Rowley, I., & Smith, G. T. (1985). The effects of clearing for agriculture on the distribution of Cockatoos in the southwest of Western Australia. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Serena, M., & Soderquist, T. R. (1988). Field techniques for working with chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii). Department of Conservation and Land Management. Serena, M., Soderquist, T. R., & Morris, K. D. (1991). Western Australian Wildlife Management Program No 7: The Chuditch. Como: Department of Conservation and Land Management. Serventy, D L; Whittell, H M. (1976). Birds of Western Australia. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Shortridge, G. C. (1909). An account of the geographical distributation of the marsupials and monotremes of southwest Australia, having species reference to the specimens collected during the Balston expedition of 1904-1907. (pp. 803-848). London: Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London. Soderquist, T. R. (1988). The ecology of the chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii) in the jarrah forest: a summary of facts relevant to management. Department of Conservation and Land Management. Soderquist, T. R., & Serena, M. (2000). Juvenile behaviour and dispersal among chuditch, Dasyurus geoffroii (Marsupialia). Australian Journal of Zoology , 551-560. Taylor, A., & Hopper, S. D. (1988). The Banksia Atlas (Australian Flora and Fauna Series). In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Theats Database. Canberra: Australian Government. Wheeler, R. (1973). Australian Bird Watcher: Rainbowbirds taking tadpoles. In Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts - Species Profile and Threats Database. Canberra: Australian Government.

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RECORD OF DISTRIBUTION

No. of Report File Name Report Date Prepared for: Initials copies Status

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 Western Areas NL SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

12 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 EPA SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

3 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 Coffey Environments Pty Ltd SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 Wildflower Society of WA SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 Conservation Council of WA SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 WA Naturalists Club SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 The Wilderness Society (WA) SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS V2 17 February 2009 Graeme Pellew SI Report Preparaton_001_si_V2

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

ABBREVIATIONS IV

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY VI

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Background 1

1.2 Proponent Details 1

1.3 Purpose and Scope of the EPS 1

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3

2.1 Key Characteristics of the Project 3

2.2 Site Location and Access 4

2.3 Project Schedule 4

2.4 Pre-Mine Establishment Works 5 2.4.1 Vegetation Clearance 5 2.4.2 Topsoil Stockpiling 6

2.5 Mining Operations 6 2.5.1 Open Cut Mining Method 6 2.5.2 Pit Design 6 2.5.3 Pit Dewatering 6 2.5.4 Equipment and Machinery 7 2.5.5 Blasting and Explosives 8 2.5.6 Ore Haulage and Processing 8

2.6 Waste Rock Stockpile 9

2.7 Services and Utilities 9 2.7.1 Water Requirements and Supply 9 2.7.2 Power and Lighting 9 2.7.3 Communications 10

2.8 Infrastructure 10 2.8.1 Roads and Transport 10 2.8.2 Buildings and Associated Infrastructure 10 2.8.3 Saline Water Storage and Pipeline 11

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

2.8.4 Fuel Storage 12

2.9 Waste 12 2.9.1 Tyres 12 2.9.2 Sewage 12 2.9.3 Solid Waste 12 2.9.4 Hazardous Waste 13 2.9.5 Hypersaline Waste Water 13

2.10 Workforce 13

2.11 Decommissioning and Mine Closure 13

3 JUSTIFICATION AND ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROJECT 14

3.1 Development Options 14

3.2 No Development Option 14

4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 15

4.1 Regional Setting and Climate 15

4.2 Geology 15 4.2.1 Regional and Site Geology 15 4.2.2 Mineralisation 16 4.2.3 Acid Generating Potential 16

4.3 Soils 17

4.4 Surface Hydrology 18

4.5 Hydrogeology 18

4.6 Flora and Vegetation 19 4.6.1 Methodology 19 4.6.1.1 Desktop Research 19 4.6.1.2 Field Work 20 4.6.1.3 Survey Limitations 20 4.6.2 Bioregional Context of the Survey Area 20 4.6.2.1 Bioregional Context 20 4.6.2.2 Beard’s Mapping 21 4.6.3 Flora 21 4.6.4 Conservation Significance of Flora 21 4.6.4.1 Declared Rare Flora Distribution and Size 22

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

4.6.4.2 Distribution of Conservation Significant Flora at Spotted Quoll 24 4.6.5 Vegetation Types 24 4.6.5.1 Eucalyptus Woodland 24 4.6.5.2 Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland 25 4.6.5.3 Salmon Gum Woodland 26 4.6.5.4 Sand Plain Heath 26 4.6.5.5 Allocasuarina Shrubland 27 4.6.5.6 Rocky Outcrop 27 4.6.6 Vegetation Condition 27 4.6.7 Conservation Significance of Vegetation 28

5 FAUNA 29

5.1 Background 29

5.2 Overview of Forrestania Fauna Reports 30 5.2.1 Forrestania Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report (Biota, 2006a) 30 5.2.1.1 Methods 30 5.2.2 Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report (Biota, 2006b) 31 5.2.2.1 Methods 31 5.2.3 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a) 32 5.2.3.1 Methods 32 5.2.4 Forrestania Fauna Monitoring Survey – Flying Fox Phase III and IV (Biota, 2007b) 33 5.2.4.1 Methods 34 5.2.5 Carnaby’s Cockatoo Habitat Assessment: Diggers South and Mossco, Forrestania (Biota, 2008c) 35 5.2.6 Forrestania Targeted Malleefowl Survey (Biota, 2008d) 35

5.3 Database Search Results 36

5.4 Combined Fauna Results from the Forrestania Region 36 5.4.1 Herpetofauna 36 5.4.2 Avifauna 38 5.4.3 Mammals 42 5.4.3.1 Introduced Species 44 5.4.4 Short-Range Endemics 44 5.4.4.1 Forrestania Fauna Survey (Biota, 2006a) 44 5.4.4.2 Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey (Biota, 2006b) 45 5.4.4.3 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a) 45 5.4.4.4 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a) 46 5.4.4.5 Mygalomorph Investigation (Biota 2008a and 2008b) 46

5.5 Fauna Habitats at Spotted Quoll 47

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

5.6 Faunal Assemblage at Spotted Quoll 48

5.7 Conservation Significant Fauna 48 5.7.1 Legislative and Administrative Levels of Fauna Protection 48 5.7.1.1 Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 – 1979 48 5.7.1.2 EPBA Act 1999 49 5.7.2 Conservation Significant Fauna Species Recorded or Predicted to Occur 50 5.7.3 Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo 52 5.7.4 Western Rosella 53 5.7.5 Chuditch 53 5.7.6 Malleefowl 53 5.7.7 Subterranean Fauna 54 5.7.7.1 Stygofauna 54 5.7.7.2 Troglofauna 55

5.8 Social Environment 56 5.8.1 Land Use 56 5.8.2 Aboriginal Heritage 56 5.8.3 European Heritage 57

6 ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT 58

6.1 Key Aspects of the Project 58

6.2 Sources of Risk and Potential Impacts 58 6.2.1 Vegetation Clearance (Authorised and Unauthorised) 58 6.2.2 Fire Ignition 59 6.2.3 Weed Infestation 59 6.2.4 Dust 59 6.2.5 Feral Animals 60 6.2.6 Acid Generation 60 6.2.7 Lights 60 6.2.8 Noise and Vibrations 60 6.2.9 Changes to Surface Hydrology 60 6.2.10 Changes to Groundwater Hydrology 60 6.2.11 Erosion and Sedimentation 60 6.2.12 Saline Water/Fuel Spills 60

6.3 Risk Analysis 61

6.4 Risk Reduction 62

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

6.5 Summary of Risk Assessment 62

7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 64

7.1 Environmental Management System 64 7.1.1 General 64 7.1.2 Training and Education 64 7.1.3 Environmental Roles and Responsibilities 65 7.1.4 Monitoring and Auditing 66 7.1.5 Reporting 68

7.2 Vegetation and Flora 68 7.2.1 Objectives 68 7.2.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 68 7.2.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies 68 7.2.3.1 Vegetation Clearing 69 7.2.3.2 Groundwater Dewatering 70 7.2.3.3 Weeds 70 7.2.3.4 Dust 71 7.2.3.5 Saline Water 72 7.2.3.6 Fire 72 7.2.4 Environmental Outcome 74

7.3 Fauna 75 7.3.1 Objectives 75 7.3.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 75 7.3.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies 75 7.3.3.1 Direct Loss of Habitat 75 7.3.3.2 Direct Loss of Individual Terrestrial Fauna 76 7.3.3.3 Impacts on Stygofauna from Groundwater Dewatering 77 7.3.3.4 Artificial Lighting 77 7.3.3.5 Feral Animals 77 7.3.3.6 Changes to Surface Hydrology 77 7.3.3.7 Acid generation 78 7.3.3.8 Litter 78 7.3.3.9 Fire 78 7.3.4 Environmental Outcome 80

7.4 Surface Water 80 7.4.1 Objectives 80 7.4.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 80 7.4.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 81 7.4.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 81 7.4.5 Environmental Outcome 82

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7.5 Groundwater 82 7.5.1 Objectives 82 7.5.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 82 7.5.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies 83 7.5.3.1 Drawdown of groundwater levels 83 7.5.3.2 Impact on groundwater quality from potentially acid generating waste rock 83 7.5.3.3 Hydrocarbon Management 84 7.5.4 Environmental Outcome 84

7.6 Soil and Landform 85 7.6.1 Objectives 85 7.6.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 85 7.6.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 85 7.6.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 85 7.6.5 Environmental Outcome 86

7.7 Dust and Particulates 86 7.7.1 Objectives 86 7.7.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 86 7.7.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 86 7.7.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 86 7.7.5 Environmental Outcome 87

7.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions 87 7.8.1 Objectives 87 7.8.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 87 7.8.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 88 7.8.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 88 7.8.5 Environmental Outcome 88

7.9 Noise and Vibration 89 7.9.1 Objectives 89 7.9.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 89 7.9.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 89 7.9.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 89 7.9.5 Environmental Outcomes 90

7.10 Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Waste 90 7.10.1 Objective 90 7.10.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 90

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7.10.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 90 7.10.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 91 7.10.5 Environmental Outcome 92

7.11 Aboriginal Heritage 92 7.11.1 Objectives 92 7.11.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 92 7.11.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 92 7.11.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 93 7.11.5 Environmental Outcome 93

7.12 European Heritage 93

7.13 Objectives 93 7.13.1 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 93 7.13.2 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 93 7.13.3 Management and Mitigation Measures 93 7.13.4 Environmental Outcome 93

7.14 Social and Cultural Environment 94 7.14.1 Objectives 94 7.14.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines 94 7.14.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts 94 7.14.4 Management and Mitigation Measures 94 7.14.5 Environmental Outcome 94

7.15 Decommissioning, Mine Closure and Rehabilitation 94 7.15.1 Objectives 94 7.15.2 Applicable legislation, Standards and Guidelines 94 7.15.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies 95 7.15.4 Post Mining Land Use 95 7.15.5 Funding 95 7.15.6 Decommissioning and Closure Activities 95 7.15.6.1 Key Objectives and Completion Criteria 95 7.15.6.2 Demolition 99 7.15.6.3 Clean Up and Remediation 99 7.15.6.4 Vegetation Criteria Development 100 7.15.6.5 Seed Collection and Revegetation 101 7.15.7 Suspension of Operations 102 7.15.8 Post Closure Monitoring and Maintenance 102 7.15.8.1 General Maintenance 103 7.15.8.2 Revegetation and Weed Management 103

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 CONTENTS

7.15.8.3 Surface and Groundwater Management 103 7.15.8.4 Records and Reporting 104 7.15.9 Environmental Outcome 105

8 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION 106

8.1 Background 106

8.2 Consultation to Date 106 8.2.1 Federal Government and Regulatory Authorities 107 8.2.1.1 Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts 107 8.2.2 State Government and Regulatory Authorities 107 8.2.2.1 Environmental Protection Authority 107 8.2.2.2 Department of Environment and Conservation 108 8.2.2.3 Department of Industry and Resources 109 8.2.2.4 Department of Water 109 8.2.3 Local Government 109 8.2.3.1 Shire of Kondinin 109 8.2.3.2 Shire of Lake Grace 109 8.2.4 Indigenous Groups 110 8.2.4.1 Ballardong People 110 8.2.4.2 Graeme Pellew Group 110 8.2.5 Special Interest Groups 110

8.3 Initial Stakeholder Feedback 111

8.4 Draft EPS Stakeholder Feedback 113

8.5 Future Consultation 113

9 SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT 114

10 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS 116

11 REFERENCES 130

12 DISCLAIMER 133

Coffey Environments ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Tables

Table 1: Key Characteristics of the Project

Table 2: Approximate Project Schedule

Table 3: Breakdown of Disturbance

Table 4: Proposed Equipment and Machinery

Table 5: Spotted Quoll Water Requirements

Table 6: Lithology of the Proposed Spotted Quoll Mine Pit

Table 7: Acid Generating Potential of Ore and Waste Rock from the Proposed Spotted Quoll Open Pit

Table 8: DEC Eucalyptus steedmanii Population Locations Table 9: Botanica Extrapolated Eucalyptus steedmanii Population Estimates Table 10: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Eucalyptus Woodland

Table 11: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland

Table 12: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Salmon Gum Woodland

Table 13: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Sand Plain Heath

Table 14: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Allocasuarina Shrubland

Table 15: Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Rocky Outcrop Woodland

Table 16: Herpetofauna by Habitat Type

Table 17: Avifauna by Habitat Type

Table 18: Mammals by Habitat Type

Table 19: Mygalomorph Spiders recorded in the Project Area

Table 20 Mygalomorph Spiders recorded at Diggers South study area

Table 21 Mygalomorph spiders recorded at the Flying Fox study area during Survey Phase III (P3) and Phase IV (P4)

Table 22 Conservation Significant Fauna Species Recorded in Forrestania Survey Area

Table 23 Stygofauna Analysis Results

Table 24 Likelihood and Consequences Definitions

Table 25 Risk Assessment Matrix

Coffey Environments I ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Table 26 Risk Reduction Philosophy

Table 27 Prioritisation of Environmental Issues

Table 28 Environmental Responsibilities

Table 29 Proposed Monitoring and Auditing Activities

Table 30 Interim Completion Criteria, Objective and Targets

Table 31 Conceptual Keystone Species for Plant Communities

Table 32 Suspension Plan Criteria

Table 33 Conceptual Closure Activities

Table 34: Proposed Duration of Post Closure Monitoring and Inspection Programs at the Spotted Quoll Mine

Table 35: Stakeholders Consulted about the Proposed Development of the Spotted Quoll Mine

Table 36: Listing of Consultation with DEC

Table 37: Environmental Issues/Comments raised During Stakeholder Consultations

Table 38: Environmental Issues/Comments raised from Draft EPS

Table 39: Application of the Principles of Sustainability to the Spotted Quoll Mining Project

Table 40: Summary of Environmental Commitments

Figures

Figure 1: Regional Location

Figure 2: Forrestania Regional Plan

Figure 3: Site Layout

Figure 4: Proposed Pit and Waste Rock Dump Design

Figure 5: Dewatering Bore Locations

Figure 6: Inferred Groundwater Drawdown after 26 Months Pumping

Figure 7: Groundwater Drawdown Cross Section

Figure 8: Monitoring Bore Locations

Figure 9: Site Infrastructure and Laydown Area

Figure 10: Regional Geology of the Forrestania Area

Figure 11: Mineralisation of the Spotted Quoll Deposit

Figure 12: Catchment Map

Figure 13: Groundwater Contours

Coffey Environments II ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Figure 14: Regional Locations – DRF Records

Figure 15: Locations of Significant Flora

Figure 16: Stygofauna Monitoring Bores

Figure 17: Indicative Monitoring Plan

Appendices

Appendix A: Waste Rock Characterisation Laboratory Certificates

Appendix B: Vegetation Survey of New Morning to Spotted Quoll Area

Appendix C: DEC’s DRF and Priority Flora Database search results

Appendix D: Spotted Quoll Project Area Flora List

Appendix E: Forrestania Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report

Appendix F: Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey

Appendix G: Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1

Appendix H: Forrestania Fauna Monitoring Survey – Flying Fox Phases III and IV

Appendix I: Mygalomorph Summary of Field Activities for January 2008

Appendix J: Interim Results of Forrestania Mygalomorph Studies, December 2008

Appendix K: Carnaby’s Cockatoo Habitat Assessment: Diggers South and Mossco, Forrestania

Appendix L: Forrestania Targeted Malleefowl Survey

Appendix M: Letter from DEC regarding Fauna Survey

Appendix N: Assessment of Significant Habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Western Rosella and Chuditch in the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal, Forrestania

Appendix O: Spotted Quoll Fauna Assessment

Appendix P: Preliminary Stygofauna Investigation

Appendix Q: Troglofauna Occurrence at Western Areas

Appendix R: Assessment of the Potential for Presence of Troglofauna Species at Spotted Quoll Nickel Resource, Forrestania – Examination of Drill Core from Spotted Quoll.

Appendix S: Herpetofauna, Avifauna and Mammal Summary Tables

Appendix T: Correspondence from DEC regarding Assessment of the Potential for Presence of Troglofauna Species at Spotted Quoll

Appendix U: Report of Indigenous Heritage Surveys and Archaeological Assessment

Appendix V: Environmental Risk Assessment

Appendix W: Fire Management Plan

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Appendix X: Declared Rare Flora Management Plan

Appendix Y: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment Report

Appendix Z: Stakeholder Consultation Handout

Appendix AA: Minutes of Meeting with Stakeholders

Coffey Environments IV ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 ABBREVIATIONS

AHD Australian Height Datum

ANC Acid Neutralising Capacity

ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council

ARI Average Recurrence Interval

ARMCANZ Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand

Bgs Below ground surface

CC Conservation Council of Western Australia

CAMBA China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

CBC Cosmic Boy Concentrator

DAARE Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation

DCP Decommissioning and Closure Plan

DEC Department of Environment and Conservation

DIA Department of Indigenous Affairs

DOIR Department of Industry and Resources

DMP Department of Minerals and Petroleum

DRF Declared Rare Flora

EMB Environmental Management Branch

EPA Environmental Protection Authority

EPASU Environmental Protection Authority Service Unit

EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999

ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area

FGB Forrestania Greenstone Belt

GPS Global Positioning System

Coffey Environments V ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 ABBREVIATIONS

HCWA Heritage Council of Western Australia

HDPE High Density Poly-Ethylene hr Hour

IBRA Interim Biogeographic Region of Australia

JAMBA Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement kg/ha kilogram per hectare ktpa Kilo tonnes per annum kV Kilovolt

µg/L micrograms per litre m metres mg/L milligrams per litre

ML Mega Litre

Mt Million tonnes

NAG Net Acid Generation

NATA National Association of Testing Authorities

NT Native Title

NEPM National Environmental Protection Measure

PLC Programmable Logic Controller

RO Reverse Osmosis t Tonnes

VHF Very High Frequency

WSA Western Areas NL

Coffey Environments VI ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Western Areas NL operates several sites in the Forrestania region of Western Australia. The proposed Spotted Quoll mine is situated approximately 160kms south of Southern Cross and 80kms east of Hyden in the Shire of Kondinin.

The proposal is to develop an open pit to mine the Spotted Quoll deposit on Mining Lease 77/583 and haulage road on Mining Lease 77/00545. The proposed open pit will be 140m deep, 550m long and 350m wide at surface and will have a life mine of 27 months. It is likely that at the conclusion of mining the open pit, an underground mine will be developed but this will be the subject of a separate referral.

The works associated with the mine will comprise site preparation, operation and landform reconstruction and rehabilitation of an open cut mine, mine ore pad, waste rock storage stockpiles, water storage sites, access roads and infrastructure corridors (pipelines and powerlines), and office, workshop and administration building sites.

It is estimated 140ha of vegetation will be removed during the course of operations and approximately 60,000m3 of topsoil will be salvaged from disturbed areas on the project site.

During the open cut operations, nickel ore will be mined using traditional drill and blast techniques.

The water table at the location of the proposed open cut mine is approximately 30m below ground level. During the open cut operations, the groundwater will need to be lowered by 110m to ensure dry-floor mining. The mine water will be pumped via underground or trenched High Density Poly-Ethylene pipeline to the abandoned Lounge Lizard and McMahon’s gold pits, which are located 1-1.5 kms to the south of the Flying Fox Mine.

Ore will be transported from the Spotted Quoll mine by double road trains to the nearby Cosmic Boy Concentrator, operated by Western Areas NL.

Waste rock will be disposed of in waste rock dumps located to the north-west of the open cut pit. The dumps will have a maximum height of 40m and will contain approximately 20Mt of waste rock.

All water required for the mining operations will be obtained from mine water. The total annual water requirement for the project is estimated at 35,100 kL/annum.

It is estimated that at the peak of operations, approximately 100 people will be employed at the Spotted Quoll Mine. The workforce for the Spotted Quoll Mine site will be housed at the Cosmic Boy village. The mining contractor will work a two weeks on, one week off roster and Western Areas NL staff will work a 9 day on, 5 day off roster, fly-in fly-out from Perth Airport.

Disturbed areas at Spotted Quoll will be returned as near as possible to native bush land. The intent is to achieve a stable rehabilitated system compatible with the targeted final land use and commensurate with the capability of the rehabilitated systems.

Rehabilitation at Spotted Quoll will be conducted progressively to minimise the total area of land disturbed at any one time. It is anticipated all areas will be rehabilitated by the end of 2013.

Benefits of the Project

The Spotted Quoll Mining Project will provide benefits to the State and Nation including:

• An increased contribution towards the Nation’s annual income through export sale of nickel concentrate;

Coffey Environments VII ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• Increased revenue to the State and Federal Government from taxes, levies and royalties from the production of nickel concentrate and from taxation income from Western Areas NL profits; and

• Direct creation of additional employment opportunities through the provision of services and supplies to Western Areas NL, including contracts for mining, maintenance and repairs.

Community Consultation

Western Areas NL has engaged in stakeholder consultation since mid 2008 for the Spotted Quoll Mining Project and has had a series of meetings with stakeholders and interested parties. Stakeholders consulted include State and Local Government agencies, special interest groups such as the Conservation Council of WA, Wilderness Society, Naturalists Club of WA and the Wildflower Society of WA and Indigenous groups.

Both formal and informal mechanisms were utilised as part of the ongoing consultation program, including briefings, provision of the Mining Proposal and a follow up handout.

Environmental Impacts and Management

The potential environmental impacts associated with the Spotted Quoll Mining Project were identified by undertaking a hazard identification and risk assessment. There were no risks/events identified as being ‘Extreme’, however two risks were identified as being of ‘High’ importance, these being:

• Vegetation Clearance (Unauthorised); and

• Fire.

Both of these issues are ranked as high importance due to the potential impacts to populations of Declared Rare Flora in the Project area. A Fire Management Plan and Declared Rare Flora Management Plan have been prepared to address the issues listed above.

There were several risks/events identified as being of ‘Medium’ importance. These are summarised in Table ES-1.

Table ES-1

Medium Importance Risks/Events

Risk Potential Risk/Event Impacts Ranking

Medium Dust from vegetation clearance, construction and Vegetation communities, Declared Rare decommissioning activities and earthworks, Flora, Priority Species and Humans overburden and ore excavation, transport and deposition, vehicle movement, and rehabilitation and revegetation activities

Medium Vegetation clearance (Authorised and Vegetation communities, vertebrate fauna, Unauthorised) short range endemics, Declared Rare Flora and Priority Species

Medium Greenhouse Gas Emissions from electricity and Air quality diesel use

Medium Changes to surface water hydrology from waste Vegetation communities, DRF, Priority rock storage Species, vertebrate fauna and short range endemics

Coffey Environments VIII ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Risk Potential Risk/Event Impacts Ranking

Medium Road kill Fauna

Medium Introduction of weeds Vegetation communities, DRF and Priority Species

Medium Fuel spills (<100L) Cumulative impact of small spills on soil quality, surface water quality, groundwater

quality, vegetation communities, DRF, Priority Species and humans

Medium Feral animals Fauna

Medium Spill of hyper saline water from Settling Pond Surface water quality, soil quality

Medium Inadequate revegetation regeneration Biodiversity

Summary of Environmental Commitments

Western Areas NL is committed to meeting a level of environmental management performance consistent with national and international standards and statutory obligations. The increased throughput will be undertaken in a manner that will minimise impacts on the surrounding biophysical and social environments.

A summary of the environmental issues related to the project and the management strategies proposed to minimise environmental impacts is provided in Table ES-2.

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Table ES-2 Proposed Management/Mitigation Strategies for High and Medium Risks/Events Risk Potential Management/Mitigation Strategies Risk/Event

High Fire • Firebreaks will be constructed and maintained on the project area in accordance with legislative requirements. • Undertake annual fuel-loading assessments on Western Areas NL tenements and consider appropriate management options in consultation with Department of Environment and Conservation and Fire and Emergency Services Australia. • Company buildings and fixed assets will be designed and constructed, wherever possible, of materials which will withstand fires. • The Construction and Mine Managers will require the highest standards of “housekeeping” around all buildings and built infrastructure, especially fuel storage areas. • All mine site personnel will attend an initial site induction which will inform all personnel on site about fire awareness and fire response. • Staff and contractors will complete a job safety analysis prior to conducting any potentially hazardous works onsite including welding, cutting or grinding activities and other activities which have potential to ignite a fire. • Weekly safety meeting will be undertaken onsite during which information sessions will be held to refresh fire awareness within the workforce. • The Emergency Response Team will be deployed where required in the event of an incident involving fire. • Fire protection will be by use of hand held extinguishers within buildings and equipment. A fire protection trailer will be located at Spotted Quoll site that will have fire hoses, a 900L water container and a fire pump. A mobile fire and emergency truck which is equipped with a 2000L tank, 2 fast attack hose reels and BIC capability is also available for use in the event of a fire. This is garaged at the Flying Fox mine, 6kms to the north of Spotted Quoll. • Flammable substances will be stored and used in compliance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. • All mining equipment and generating sets will be equipped with fire extinguishers to minimise the risk of fire from site operations. • Periodic fire control training will be undertaken for all personnel on site on the proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation of buildings in case of fire and emergency muster points. • All vehicles will be fitted with two-way radios that can also be used in an emergency situation. • Smoking will only be permitted in designated areas around the mine site. • “Hot work” is any metal-on-metal work, such as welding and grinding which can generate sparks and start fires. No hot work may be carried out on the mine site without a permit issued by a person authorised by the Construction or Mine Manager. • The Construction Manager (during the construction phase) and then the Mine Manager will be responsible for ensuring that a Fire and Emergency Response Plan is prepared for the site and that it is implemented, tested with practice drills, and reviewed and updated annually, or as required during the year in the event of changes to personnel or in response to a fire. • Fire management monitoring will be undertaken by Western Areas NL throughout the duration of the project, which will mainly include: - Conducting a baseline fire risks study prior to the commencement of project to determine the background levels of potential fire risks; and - Public bushfire danger warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology will be used to predict the level of bushfire risk within the Project Area. Appropriate response strategies (for example issue of “hot work” permits may be suspended during periods of extreme fire danger) will be developed accordingly. • Fire management monitoring requirements will be reviewed after the initial 12 months of operation and adjusted if necessary. • All Western Areas NL employees and contractors will be required to report any

Coffey Environments X ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Risk Potential Management/Mitigation Strategies Risk/Event potential fire risks to the site manager via their supervisor. • All records of fire management monitoring kept in accordance with this plan will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Review, which will be submitted to the Department of Mines and Petroleum and the Department of Environment and Conservation. • In addition, pre-emptive actions will be undertaken prior to construction of the project through collection of seed from DRF populations located in the vicinity of the project area for storage in the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Collections will be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation in relation to timing, collection technique and required documentation; • Propagation of replacement plants (via direct seeding or planting of tubestock) from seed collected from the affected population and implementation of a E. steedmanii re-establishment or re-location program. This action is to be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation. High Vegetation Clearance • Ensuring all staff and contractors attend a compulsory environmental induction (Unauthorised) advisory of environmental management responsibilities (including Declared Rare Flora management) and to raise the awareness about the vegetation and flora at the site and the habitat it provides for fauna. Permit to Clear procedures will also be communication at the induction. • Western Areas NL personnel will provide information to construction and operations staff at toolbox meetings as well as regular (bi-monthly) presentations at site meetings. In particular photos and details about Eucalyptus steedmanii will be provided to assist in identification of the species in the field. • Create exclusion zones with fencing and signage around the Declared Rare Flora populations of Eucalyptus steedmanii and prohibit all staff and contractors from entering this area without permission of the Western Areas NL environmental staff. • Clearly mark areas to be cleared prior to clearing commencing so that over-clearing will be avoided. • Supervision of vegetation clearing activities by the Environmental staff. • Restriction on the construction of any access tracks adjacent to any of Eucalyptus steedmanii populations. • Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb vegetation. • Refer to DRF Management Plan – will undertake a targeted search prior to clearing to determine how many E. steedmanii plants are at risk then a ‘Permit to Take DRF in Management Program’ will be obtained from the Department of Environment and Conservation. Medium Dust from vegetation • A ‘minimum clearing’ policy will be adopted to ensure that vegetation is cleared only clearance, construction when and where necessary. In instances where the clearing of extensive areas is and decommissioning unavoidable, additional dust suppression techniques will be employed to ensure activities and earthworks, stabilisation of the cleared surfaces. overburden and ore • Unsealed roads will be watered by water carts with dribble bars during dry, dusty excavation, transport and periods. deposition, vehicle movement, and • Topsoil stripping will be scheduled to avoid periods of high winds. rehabilitation and • Stripping operations are to be suspended under particularly high wind conditions. revegetation activities • Where practicable, topsoil will be directly transferred to exposed surfaces requiring rehabilitation and covered with any salvaged vegetative material. • Monitoring of local climatic conditions to determine optimal blasting times when prevailing winds will blow away dust from known locations of Declared Rare Flora. • Stabilisation of dust on topsoil stockpiles or other earthen stockpiles with salvaged vegetation or stabilising emulsion. • Dust deposition gauges will be installed at each Eucalyptus steedmanii population that is at a greater risk of being adversely impacted (i.e. those adjacent to the haul road and the population to the south of the pit) and at control locations. The final locations of dust deposition gauges will be decided in consultation with Department of Environment and Conservation and the results forwarded to Department of Environment and Conservation on an annual basis. • Weekly visual assessments of the populations located adjacent to the haul road and mining operations to detect any potential changes in plant health.

Coffey Environments XI ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Risk Potential Management/Mitigation Strategies Risk/Event • If adverse trends in the health of adjacent Declared Rare Flora populations are noted that can be attributed to dust deposition then “washing down” of affected plants may be undertaken using potable water to remove deposited dust. • Pre-emptive actions will be undertaken prior to construction of the project through collection of seed from Declared Rare Flora populations located in the vicinity of the project area for storage in the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Collections will be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation in relation to timing, collection technique and required documentation. • Propagation of replacement plants (via direct seeding or planting of tubestock) from seed collected from the affected population and implementation of E. steedmanii re- establishment or re-location program. This action is to be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation. • It is proposed to utilise the data from both the dust deposition and native vegetation health monitoring, as a basis to develop appropriate operational dust deposition targets. • In the event that dust levels exceed acceptable limits, dust suppression measures will be immediately reviewed and more stringent measures implemented as appropriate. • Areas of the mining site that are disturbed during the construction phase and that will no longer be accessed during operation will be rehabilitated. Procedures will be implemented to prevent unauthorised access to rehabilitated areas. • Methods for minimising the amount of dust produced by drilling and blasting operations will be investigated and applied where applicable. • Waste rock dumps will be designed so that the amount of exposed surface area is minimised, and the amount of active dumps are minimised, allowing for progressive rehabilitation. • Vehicle speeds will be restricted on unsealed surfaces. It is proposed to restrict vehicle speeds on haul roads to 80km/hr. • A complaints register will be maintained, any complaints received will be investigated, and the dust suppression methods employed reviewed. • If additional dust control measures are required and dust suppressant products are deemed necessary, only environmentally benign products will be used. Medium Vegetation clearance • Ensuring all staff and contractors attend a compulsory environmental induction (Authorised) advising of environmental management responsibilities (including Declared Rare Flora management) and to raise the awareness about the vegetation and flora at the site and the habitat it provides for fauna. Permit to Clear procedures will also be communication at the induction. • Western Areas NL personnel will provide information to construction and operations staff at toolbox meetings as well as regular (bi-monthly) presentations at site meetings. In particular photos and details about Eucalyptus steedmanii and Priority 4 species will be provided to assist in identification of the species in the field. • Create exclusion zones with fencing and signage around the Declared Rare Flora populations of Eucalyptus steedmanii and prohibit all staff and contractors from entering this area without permission of the Western Areas NL environmental staff. • Supervision of vegetation clearing activities by the Environmental staff. • Restriction on the construction of any access tracks adjacent to any of Eucalyptus steedmanii populations. • Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb vegetation. • Refer to DRF Management Plan – will undertake a targeted search prior to clearing to determine how many E. steedmanii plants are at risk then a ‘Permit to Take DRF in Management Program’ will be obtained from the Department of Environment and Conservation. • Limiting clearing of vegetation to the minimum necessary to implement the project. This will be achieved using the Western Areas NL internal “Permit to Clear” procedures. • Clearly mark areas to be cleared prior to clearing commencing so that over-clearing will be avoided. • Ground truth the Eucalyptus Woodland along the proposed haul road to confirm or

Coffey Environments XII ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Risk Potential Management/Mitigation Strategies Risk/Event otherwise the presence of Stylidium sejunctum. If present, assess options for re- transplantation of the species. • Collect and correctly stockpile vegetative material and topsoil for later use at selected sites. • Progressively rehabilitate completed areas as soon as practicable. • Only use local native plant species for rehabilitation. • Use only local provenance seed in rehabilitation activities. Other initiatives will be trialled in an effort to minimise impact on fauna. For example, undertaking clearing using a “from the inside out” approach may increase the ability of animals to move beyond the clearing envelope. • Clearing of large hollow bearing trees will be avoided wherever possible. It should be noted that Salmon Gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) woodlands comprise the preferred nesting habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo. • Erecting signs on haulage and access roads to create awareness of Malleefowl in the area. • Undertaking searches within 100m of any new project disturbance footprint to determine if active Malleefowl mounds are present. If any active mounds are located, these will be avoided wherever possible. • Trapping and relocation of Chuditch prior to vegetation clearance. Trapping and relocation will occur outside breeding periods to ensure the maximum chance of trapping the fauna and to ensure that young are not left stranded in the den Medium Greenhouse Gas • Restricting to a practicable minimum, the area of native vegetation to be cleared. Emissions from • Progressively rehabilitating operations redundant areas as soon as they become electricity and diesel use available. • Establishing the overhead power supply lines from the Flying Fox site as soon as possible to enable the usage of electricity supplied by Western Power grid, to minimise diesel generator requirements. • Locating the infrastructures within the mining site as close as possible to the proposed power supply line to reduce line losses onsite. • Ensuring that vehicles and equipment are regularly serviced and fitted with appropriate emission control equipment. • Integrating processes to minimise material handling such as direct replacement of mine materials where possible. • Monitoring energy consumption and calculating greenhouse gas emissions, which will enable additional sources of greenhouse gas emissions to be identified and extra measures employed to identify and assessing economically viable opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Medium Changes to surface • Surface water management structures will be designed and constructed to minimise water hydrology from erosion. waste rock storage • Diversion drains will be constructed to ensure non impacted runoff water re-enters natural drainage lines at a velocity and depth that can be accommodated by the natural stream line without increased scouring. • Regular visual monitoring will be undertaken of the diversion channels and downstream drainage lines, and the condition of vegetation in the diversion channels. Should substantial erosion occur, the cause of the erosion will be identified, erosion/deposition areas rehabilitated as appropriate, and measures implemented to prevent further erosion. At closure, disturbed areas will be stabilised and revegetated to minimise erosion potential. • Drainage and water collection structures will be inspected on a regular basis and properly maintained. • A toe drain will be installed around the base of the waste rock dump to capture and contain any permeate. Medium Road kill • Speed restrictions on haul and access roads. Medium Introduction of weeds • Staff and contractors will be made aware of the potential weed species in the area during the site induction and advised to report any weed establishment to the Western Areas NL Environment department. • Conduct weed monitoring on a quarterly basis on all tenements associated with the Spotted Quoll project.

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Risk Potential Management/Mitigation Strategies Risk/Event • If a particular weed species infestation is identified, targeted management measures will be developed. • Application of hygiene measures such as equipment and vehicle blowdown prior to accessing project will be used. Medium Fuel spills (<100L) • Two self-bonded fuel tanks each of 100kL capacity will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank. • Oily runoff will be collected in appropriately designed and sized oil/water separators prior to disposal. • Oil/water separators will be regularly cleaned and maintained. • Conduct regular audits of hazardous material use and storage. • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and will be recycled wherever possible and if not, removed offsite by licensed contractor. • If an inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon occurs the spill would be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. The contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site; • Used oils, greases and lubricants will be stored in a designated tank in a bunded area in accordance with Australian Standard 1940. Any material stored on site will be transported periodically by a licensed contractor to an oil recycling facility. • Staff will be provided with comprehensive training regarding the handling, storage and use of hazardous materials. • Material Safety Data Sheets, which should be provided by the material manufacturer, will be clearly marked and located in all areas where hazardous materials are used or stored. • Staff shall be made aware of issues affecting hazardous materials management, associated environmental impacts. Medium Feral animals • Restrict pets, firearms, or traps on the project area. • Ensure all domestic waste at the mines site will be covered. • Implement an annual feral animal trapping and baiting program on the mining leases. • Continue to support the existing wild dog control program currently undertaken in the area by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Conservation. Medium Spill of hyper saline • Ensure that two pumps are maintained in good working order for use at the Settling water from Settling Pond Pond (to pump water to the McMahon Pit) at all times. • Ensure sufficient contingency (secondary containment) is available in the unlikely event that the settling pond fills to capacity. Medium Inadequate revegetation • Ensure reconstructed landforms and drainage lines are tied into undisturbed regeneration topography. • Restore original pathways of pre-mining drainage lines wherever possible. • Ensure there are no active erosion rills greater than 10m x 0.1m. • Ensure maximum slope angles of 20° for waste rock dumps (to mimic natural angles of iron cap hills) and 8° for other areas. • Use native soils in areas to be revegetated. • Ensure embankments are constructed to enhance infiltration where there is a potential for overland water flow to create erosion problems. • Ensure all major drainage lines are designed for a 1:100 average recurrence interval (ARI). • All soils used for the upper soil profile will be from local stockpiled topsoil. • The minimum depth of upper soil profile will be 100mm. • Ensure there is no remaining plant or infrastructure that is not required for post- operational use. • Keystone species are to be returned to the rehabilitation areas as a priority – identify keystone species, include on seed list and undertake research if species are not returning to the rehabilitation areas. • Native seed used in rehabilitation will be local provenance seed.

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

The Western Areas NL (WSA) Forrestania project area is located approximately 160 kilometres south of Southern Cross and 80 kilometres east of Hyden in the Shire of Kondinin and was previously under tenement by Outokumpu Mining Australia Pty Limited. There are five known deposits in the region of which three - Flying Fox, Cosmic Boy and Digger Rocks, were mined and processed in the 1990s to produce approximately 3.8 million tonnes of ore at 1.9 %nickel.

The Digger Rocks deposit was mined via an open pit and underground operation, whilst the Flying Fox and Cosmic Boy operations were both underground only. Outokumpu sold the operations to WSA in 1999.

WSA are currently mining the Flying Fox deposit located six kilometres north of the Spotted Quoll mining tenements. WSA are also constructing a processing plant and tailings storage facility (TSF) at Cosmic Boy and have commenced development of the Diggers South mining project at Digger Rocks. The Spotted Quoll nickel deposit is a previously undiscovered deposit in the Forrestania region and is located approximately six kilometres to the south of the Flying Fox Mine.

1.2 Proponent Details

The proponent for the proposed Spotted Quoll nickel mine is Western Areas NL.

Address

Suite 3, level 1

11 Ventnor Avenue

WEST PERTH WA 6005

Key Personnel

Director of Operations Dan Lougher

Environmental Manager Phil Knapton

Phone: 08 9334 7777

Facsimile: 08 9486 7866

1.3 Purpose and Scope of the EPS

The purpose of this Environmental Protection Statement (EPS) is to communicate the proposal to mine the Spotted Quoll nickel deposit to the public and government agencies. Environmental management strategies, requirements for monitoring and provisions for reporting have been committed to in this EPS to mitigate any potential impacts.

The scope of the EPS is to: i. Provide evidence of the stakeholder consultation process that has been undertaken to communicate the proposal to the public and government agencies; ii. Demonstrate that responses from the consultation process have been incorporated (wherever relevant) into the environmental strategies and commitments for the management of biophysical, pollution and social factors relating to the proposal;

Coffey Environments 1 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 SPOTTED QUOLL MINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT iii. Utilise studies, surveys and technical reports commissioned by WSA to characterise the existing environment and provide the necessary detail on the biophysical factors in the proposal area; and iv. Provide responses to the gaps in the survey work outlined in the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal (Lindbeck, 2008a).

This EPS document acknowledges the core principles of environmental protection set out in the EPA’s Position Statement No.7 Principles of Environmental Protection (EPA, 2004a). These principles have been considered in the preparation of the EPS where relevant.

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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Key Characteristics of the Project

The proposal is to develop an open pit to mine the Spotted Quoll nickel deposit on Mining Lease 77/583 and haul/access road on Mining Lease M77/545. The proposed open pit will be 140m deep, 550m long and 350m wide at surface and will have a life of 33 months, including both the pre-strip and productive mining stages.

The works associated with the mine will comprise site preparation, operation and landform reconstruction and rehabilitation of: • The open cut mine; • Mine ore pad; • Waste rock storage stockpiles; • Water treatment and storage sites; • Roads and infrastructure corridors (pipelines and powerlines); and • Office, workshop and administration building sites. It is likely that at the conclusion of mining the open pit an underground mine will be developed but this will be the subject of a separate referral.

Key operating parameters of the Project are summarised in Table 1. Table 1 Key Characteristics of the Project

Element Description

Land Tenure Unallocated Crown Land

Operating Life 33 months (includes 4 – 6 months pre- strip) This will extend if the underground component proceeds.

Construction 4 - 6 months

Size of Orebody Open cut - estimated at 298,000 tonnes @ 6.1% nickel

Mining Method Open pit

Depth to top of ore from ground level 30m

Depth to groundwater 30 – 40m

Total Mine Depth 140m (open cut)

Material movements • Total waste 20Mt • Ore 180,000 tonnes per annum

Processing Technique No processing on site. Ore to be hauled by road train to Cosmic Boy concentrator.

Area to be Cleared 140ha

Dewatering Rate Initial (1-2 years): up to 150L/s

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Element Description Later: 50 – 100L/s

Potable Water Demand 15 – 20m3/day

Water Supply Sources Groundwater (treated by a Reverse Osmosis plant)

Power Generation Initially diesel generation. Replaced by Grid power.

Fuel Storage 2 x 100 kL tanks

Transport Movements (from Spotted Quoll Typically 8, maximum of 12 round trips to Cosmic Boy) per day at mean load of 55t (double road trains)

Workforce 100 (Fly-in Fly-out operation)

T = tonnes Mt = million tonnes ha = hectares m = metres kL = kilolitres L/s = litres per second

2.2 Site Location and Access

The proposed Spotted Quoll Mine is situated approximately 160 kms south of Southern Cross and 80 kms east of Hyden in the Shire of Kondinin. Figure 1 shows the location of the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine.

Access to the site is via the Hyden-Norseman Road or the Forrestania - Southern Cross Road (see Figure 2).

2.3 Project Schedule

Site preparation works are planned to commence during the second half of 2009. This will enable mining to commence by the end of 2009. Mining will continue for approximately 27 months and decommissioning and rehabilitation is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2012. An approximate schedule of key events during the project life is shown in Table 2. Table 2 Approximate Project Schedule

Time Event June to September 2009 Remove vegetation and topsoil from access road and infrastructure corridors and commence road construction and pipeline installation between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox mines June to September 2009 Remove vegetation and topsoil from internal haul roads, run of mine pad, part of waste rock dump footprint and building sites and commence construction of buildings and run of mine pad. June to September 2009 Commence installation of overhead powerlines June to September 2009 Installation of potable water pipeline October 2009 Commence overburden removal of open cut pit

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Time Event April 2012 Complete open cut mining December 2012 Either complete decommissioning and rehabilitation works or proceed with underground mine. In the event that the underground stage proceeds, the decommissioning and rehabilitation works will commence immediately on closure of the underground works.

2.4 Pre-Mine Establishment Works

Pre-mine establishment works will include topsoil stripping, overburden removal, drainage works and the establishment of internal haul roads and infrastructure.

Overburden removed from the proposed open cut pit area will be used to construct infrastructure such as the run of mine ore pad, access roads, internal haul roads, ramps, parking bays, and the water settling pond.

2.4.1 Vegetation Clearance

It is estimated a maximum of 140ha of vegetation will be removed during the course of operations at the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine site. Whilst a majority of the locations for infrastructure at the proposed operation has been decided, there is some infrastructure that has not yet been located (i.e. infrastructure related to storage of explosives). A clearing envelope has been developed to show the external perimeter of any areas to be cleared. The clearing envelope comprises an area of 235ha, however only 140ha will be cleared within this envelope. The clearing envelope showing locations of major infrastructure is shown in Figure 3. A breakdown of site disturbance is provided in Table 3. The clearance of vegetation and topsoil under the footprint of the waste rock stockpiles will be a gradual process, conducted as required in advance of the growing toe of the waste dumps. This will minimise the length of time topsoil is stored. Table 3 Breakdown of Disturbance (ha)

Activity M77/583 M77/545 Total Open Cut Pit 17.00 17.00 ROM Pad 2.50 2.50 Bioremediation Pad 1.00 1.00 Pipeline/Powerline Easement 5.00 1.50 6.50 SQ-FF Topsoil Storage 11.00 1.00 12.00 Haul/Access Road SQ-FF 7.40 3.60 11.00 Settling Pond 2.00 2.00 Scour Ponds 0.20 0.10 0.30 (maintenance/emergency use only) Dewatering borefield access 2.50 2.50 and pipeline to settling pond High Voltage Switchyard 0.05 0.05 Road drainage (spoon drains 0.55 0.25 0.80 etc)

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Activity M77/583 M77/545 Total Waste Rock Stockpiles 46.50 46.50 Workshop/Admin/Laydown 7.00 7.00 Explosives Magazines and 2.00 2.00 Access Miscellaneous (clearing 28.85 28.85 aprons around infrastructure) TOTAL 133.55 6.45 140.00

2.4.2 Topsoil Stockpiling

It is estimated that approximately 60,000m3 of topsoil will be salvaged from disturbed areas on the project site. The topsoil will be stored in stockpiles of a maximum of one metre in height and will be located to ensure ease of access during rehabilitation activities.

2.5 Mining Operations

2.5.1 Open Cut Mining Method

Overburden in the open pit will be mined for up to six months before ore is extracted for processing. Mining of ore will be a traditional drill and blast technique, conducted by a specialized mining contractor.

The process will also include:

• Excavation of wet ore;

• Haulage to run of mine (ROM) pad; and

• Loading of ore to road trains for transport to Cosmic Boy Concentrator (CBC).

2.5.2 Pit Design

The proposed pit design is shown in Figure 4. The pit is estimated to measure approximately 550m along the north-south orientation and 350m wide along the east-west orientation. Mining is currently planned to extend to 140m below ground surface. The final exit ramp is proposed to be located on the north western side of the pit so as to avoid disturbance of the Declared Rare Flora (DRF) species Eucalyptus steedmanii located to the south of the pit.

2.5.3 Pit Dewatering

The water table at the location of the proposed open cut mine is approximately 30m below ground level (Rockwater, 2008a). The depth of the proposed open cut mine is 140m, indicating that groundwater will need to be lowered by 110m to enable dry-floor mining.

A total of fifteen dewatering production bores are proposed. Six production bores (WWWB2 – WWWB7) have been constructed already as a part of the aquifer testing program. Locations of proposed and existing bores are shown in Figure 5. The dewatering bores are designed to be installed to 150m below ground level, constructed of 203mm diameter steel casing, and are likely to produce at rates of up 20L/s each, decreasing as dewatering proceeds.

A Modflow numerical model of the aquifers at the pit and adjacent areas was used to predict water levels at the proposed mine pit if the six existing production bores were pumped for the adopted

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27 month productive mining period (i.e. after pre-strip) at the highest achievable rate of 91L/s. It indicated water-level reduction to 320 to 327m AHD at the pit floor, whereas the planned depth is 260 m AHD. The modeling indicated that additional bores would be required to ensure sufficient dewatering of the open cut to enable dry-floor mining within the adopted 27 month productive mining period.

According to the modelling, sufficient dewatering would be achieved with a combined pumping rate of approximately 170 L/s from nine high producing bores in the south-eastern sector and six low- producing bores or sumps in the northwestern sector of the pit and its margins. However, it should be noted that the modelling is sensitive to the assigned aquifer permeabilities in the untested area to the south of the deposit. If the actual permeability in this area is lower than that assigned in the modelling then the required dewatering rate could be much lower. For example if the actual permeability is 3% – 25% of the assigned value of 2m/d used in the modelling then the required dewatering rate would be achieved with a combined pumping rate of about 50 – 100L/s.

With the assumptions and limitations of the modelling in mind, WSA is comfortable that in reality a combined maximum dewatering rate of 150L/s will achieve the required dewatering outcome for mining and hence initially, water will be pumped at this rate. After the initial peak dewatering phase, pumping should decrease to a rate of somewhere between 50L/s and 82L/s approximately (i.e. between 4320 and 7085m3/day). Most of the water will be pumped from the south-eastern sector, where nine bores would operate at rates of between 11 and 20L/s. In the north-western sector, dewatering is estimated to require six bores with pumping rates of between 0.5 and 5L/s.

Figure 6 shows the inferred groundwater drawdown after 27 months pumping at 170 L/s. Figure 7 shows a cross-section of the groundwater drawdown.

The mine water will be pumped via underground or trenched 355mm Class PN6.3 HDPE pipeline to the abandoned Lounge Lizard and McMahon’s gold pits, which are located 1-1.5km to the south of the Flying Fox Mine. The pipeline has been designed to cater for a maximum flow rate of 150L/s. The discharge will be controlled by appropriate monitoring, valves and flow meters.

Twenty one groundwater monitoring bores are proposed at the locations shown in Figure 8. They are located to provide information on the progress of dewatering, inside and outside the pit perimeter. Three or more bores are located at sufficient distance to survive the mining operations and provide long-term information on aquifer drawdown.

The design depths of the monitoring bores are 150m below ground level for those in and close to the pit, and 100-150m for the outlying bores. They will be cased with 80mm OD class 18 uPVC casing with slots of 2mm from the water table (about 30m) to total depth.

2.5.4 Equipment and Machinery

Mining will be conducted by a specialised mining contractor. The specific mining machinery list will be determined in consultation with the selected contractor, however estimation is provided in Table 4.

Table 4 Proposed Equipment and Machinery

Equipment Type Number Haul Pacs 8 Road Trains 1 Excavator 2 Dozer 1

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Equipment Type Number IT 1 Light Vehicles 8 Water cart 1 Grader 1 Drill Rigs 2 Service Trucks 1

2.5.5 Blasting and Explosives

Blasting will be conducted where the ore or waste rock is too hard for the excavator to dig efficiently. It is envisaged that a blast will be required every second day or less. Drill and blast procedures and designs will be prepared in consultation with blasting specialists to ensure:

• Safety of the mine workforce;

• Minimal movement of the ore zones to allow efficient mining and ensure stabilisation of the pit walls; and

• Adequate fragmentation of the rock.

A surface primary explosives magazine and detonator magazine will be established in conformance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and will be located on the western side of the waste rock dumps.

All explosives will be transported from the magazine to the pit using vehicles, which are licensed under the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and the Australian Code for the transportation of explosives by road and rail.

Drilling and blasting will be undertaken by the mining contractor under the control of a nominated person who is a holder of a Western Australian Shotfirer’s Certificate. Blasting will only be conducted at times set by WSA in accordance with the Mine Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995.

Explosives will consist of ammonium nitrate emulsion as a primary explosive, booster primed with delay timed, non-electric downlines. A minimum of 3 tonnes of explosives will be used per blast.

Blast holes will be loaded with a known quantity of explosive, and the firing sequence will be designed such that sufficient delay exists between holes, ensuring single hole initiation (to reduce overall levels of vibration).

2.5.6 Ore Haulage and Processing

The ore will be stockpiled on the surface in stockpiles located on the ROM pad. Ore will then be loaded on double road trains by a front end loader and transported to the nearby CBC.

The CBC is currently under construction and is anticipated to be commissioned in early 2009. The plant is designed with a 350ktpa capacity and will treat ore from the high grade Flying Fox Mine and the Spotted Quoll Mine. If additional capacity is required, approval will be sought for an upgrade of the CBC, which would involve the addition of secondary and tertiary crushing equipment, installation of a larger motor on the SAG mill with its conversion into a ball mill and additional flotation capacity.

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2.6 Waste Rock Stockpile

Waste rock will be disposed of in waste rock dumps located to the north-west of the open cut pit (see Figure 4). The dumps will have a maximum height of 40m and will contain approximately 22Mt of waste rock from open cut.

The waste rock dump will be constructed in lifts, with the base lift being constructed before the second lift commences. Vegetation will be cleared progressively in front of the toe of the base lift.

On each lift, waste rock will be placed on the outer face of the waste rock dump and progressively infilled back towards the pit. This will enable batters to created from the ground up and provide areas for progressive rehabilitation to occur.

2.7 Services and Utilities

2.7.1 Water Requirements and Supply

All water required for the mining operations will be obtained from mine water. The total annual water requirement for the project is estimated at 35,100kL/annum. A summary of the approximate water requirements are provided in Table 5.

Table 5 Spotted Quoll Water Requirements

Use Source Requirement (kL/annum)

Potable Water Reverse Osmosis Plant 5,000

Dust Suppression Settling Pond 30,000

Fire Water Settling Pond 100

TOTAL 35,100

Dust suppression on haul roads and operational surfaces will be undertaken by a water cart. The ROM stockpile area will be watered with either a water cart or sprinklers to suppress dust during summer months.

Fire protection at Spotted Quoll will be by use of a fire truck equipped with a 2000L tank, two fast attack hose reels and one coupling for utilising larger fire hose configurations (i.e. 38mm or 64mm). There will also be hand held extinguishers within buildings and a quick response fire protection trailer. The trailer will be equipped with fire hoses, a 900L water container and a fire pump.

2.7.2 Power and Lighting

For approximately the first three months of operation initial power for the site will be supplied by diesel generators. This will be replaced by a 33kV Western Power supply line spurred off from the Flying Fox operations. The powerline corridor will run parallel to the main haul road between Flying Fox and Spotted Quoll (Figure 3).

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Fixed lighting towers are proposed to be situated on the edge of the open pit, the ROM pad, the workshop and laydown area, and the offices.

2.7.3 Communications

A fibre optic based telephone system will be installed at the mine site, connected back to Flying Fox. The services will include phone, fax, internet and data transmission.

VHF communication will be available in all vehicles and buildings on the site. Hand-held VHF communication sets will be provided which will integrate into the overall communications network.

2.8 Infrastructure

2.8.1 Roads and Transport

A haul/access road will be constructed over the 6.1km distance between the Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox Mine. The road is designed to allow two-way traffic for double road trains and light vehicle traffic at a maximum speed of 80km/hr. The road has been located to minimise any impact on Eucalyptus steedmanii (DRF) which can be found adjacent to the proposed road alignment. The road is to be formed with a minimum fill of 0.5m, a formation width of 13.0m, sheeted running surface of 11.0m, and a batter slope of 3:1.

The road will cross a number of creeks, requiring the installation of culverts to facilitate efficient drainage. Drainage culverts will be designed to maintain a dry road for flow events of between the 1 year and 5 year Average Recurrence Intervals (ARI). At all crossings a minimum floodway length of 20m is proposed to take the larger flood events.

The proposed culvert and floodway arrangements will ensure that the proposed road will be passable for normal 4-wheel drive vehicles even if a 1 in 100 year ARI flood eventuates.

Culverts will be constructed of Class A type reinforced concrete.

Light vehicle tracks will be constructed on site to provide access to infrastructure such as groundwater dewatering and monitoring bores, explosive storage magazines and topsoil stockpiles. The tracks are to be formed with a minimum of 0.2m fill, a formation width of 4.0m and sheeted running surface of 3.0m. Tracks that will be infrequently used, such as those to the groundwater monitoring bores or topsoil stockpiles will not be engineered. This will minimise impact on surrounding vegetation.

2.8.2 Buildings and Associated Infrastructure

Buildings that are proposed to be established at the Spotted Quoll Mine include the following:

• Heavy vehicle workshop

• Light vehicle workshop

• Electrical workshop

• Workshop office

• Administration office building for WSA staff and contractors

• Female and Male ablutions

• Changing rooms with toilets and showers

• Crib room

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• First aid room

• Heavy vehicle washdown bay

The locations of these buildings can be seen in Figure 9.

A laydown area will be located adjacent to the workshops and office buildings. The area will be used to park up heavy vehicles and equipment. The laydown area will be constructed of compacted overburden from the pit and will be bunded. A soil bioremediation facility will be located to the north of the ROM pad and will used to fertilise and aerate hydrocarbon contaminated soil.

There will be no accommodation facilities on site. All staff and contractors will be housed at the Cosmic Boy camp, which is currently being expanded to cater for the additional demand.

2.8.3 Saline Water Storage and Pipeline

Dewatering of the open cut at the Spotted Quoll Mine could result in a maximum of 150L/s of saline water being pumped from groundwater production bores prior to being distributed for a number of uses. All mine water will be pumped into a settling pond located approximately 500m from the pit adjacent to the Laydown/Office Area (see Figure 3).

The proposed onsite settling pond will comprise the following main elements:

• Composite containment facility with a primary 1mm HDPE welded lining and secondary clay liner

• Fill and draw off points located at opposite ends of the pond to maximize settling of solids

• An emergency overflow point directing saline water into a secondary clay lined containment facility

• Automated overflow protection that will shut-down dewatering pumps in the event of a high level breach

• Capacity to contain 20ML saline water with a freeboard of 0.5m.

A pump station located at the Spotted Quoll settling pond will be used to direct saline mine water to the mine site as well as the McMahon Pit at Flying Fox Mine.

A pipeline will be required to transport saline water from the settling pond to the McMahon Pit at the Flying Fox Mine. The proposed pipeline will be a 355mm diameter polyethylene pipe that will be buried at least 300mm deep and will run alongside the proposed haul/access road between the Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox mines.

The pipeline is designed for variable flow rates with a maximum flow of 150L/s. Dual action vents will be incorporated to vent air in the pipe at high points when filling and allow air into the pipe during draining to prevent a negative pipe pressure failure. Isolation valves will also be installed to allow isolation of segments of the pipe in the event of a spill or leak and for draining into scour sumps when maintenance or repairs are required.

Magnetic flow meters will be used to monitor flows for leak detection. The system will be monitored by a programmable logic controller (PLC) which will have automatic shut down capabilities if a leak is detected.

Saline water from the Spotted Quoll Mine will be mixed with saline water discharged from operations at the Flying Fox Mine and will be treated as a part of the existing management system which comprises the following:

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• storage in the McMahon pit, Lounge Lizard pit and the McMahon settling pond;

• McMahon to Cosmic Boy pipeline and injection borefields;

• Cosmic Boy plant raw water/settling pond;

• Cosmic Boy to Digger Rocks pipeline;

• Digger Rocks settling pond, open pit and evaporation pond;

• Digger Rocks to Mossco Farm pipeline; and

• Stage 1 of the evaporation ponds at Mossco Farm.

From the McMahon pit, water will be generally pumped to approved pits, injection bore fields, settling ponds and evaporation ponds via the existing and proposed pipeline system between McMahon pit and the Mossco farm evaporation ponds. Suitable capacity is built into the pipeline/pond system between McMahon pit and Mossco farm to handle the average expected flow generated from Spotted Quoll.

Contingent water storage will be maintained within the McMahon and Lounge Lizard pits so that water can be stored in the event that short term peaks in flow occur that are in excess of pipeline capacity.

2.8.4 Fuel Storage

Two diesel fuel tanks with a maximum capacity of 100,000 litres each will be required to service vehicles and other plant on site (see Figure 9). The fuel tanks will be housed in a safe, fully bunded area constructed and managed in accordance with Australian Standard AS1940-2004 – The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. The fuel storage and refuelling area will be constructed so as to contain any spills that may occur from refuelling and will be licensed under the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004.

2.9 Waste

2.9.1 Tyres

Waste tyres that are unsuitable for re-treading will be buried in the waste rock dump at the Spotted Quoll Mine site.

2.9.2 Sewage

Sewage will be managed on site by septic tanks and leach drains which will be located adjacent to the administration office building.

The septic system will be designed and operated in compliance with the health requirements of the Health Department of Western Australia and the Shire of Kondinin.

Septic sludge will be collected from septic tanks as required by a licensed contractor.

2.9.3 Solid Waste

All inert waste generated from mining activities at the Spotted Quoll Mine will either be buried in the waste dump or disposed of at the inert waste facility at Flying Fox.

All non-hazardous (putrescible and inert) domestic waste generated at the Spotted Quoll Mine will be removed from site and disposed of at an approved waste disposal site (Kondinin or Hyden). WSA are currently seeking registration of the inert waste disposal facility at the Flying Fox Mine so that it can

Coffey Environments 12 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 SPOTTED QUOLL MINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT be used as a Class 1 putrescible landfill. If approval is granted, non-hazardous domestic waste from the Spotted Quoll Mine site will be disposed of at this facility. It is estimated that approximately 200 – 500 tonnes of non-hazardous solid waste will be generated at the site per annum.

2.9.4 Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste generated at the Spotted Quoll Mine will be comprised mainly of solid and liquid hydrocarbon wastes generated from vehicle maintenance activities. These wastes will be removed from site to an approved waste disposal site or recycling facility. Where required a licensed waste disposal contractor shall be used for transport of such wastes. Soil impacted by hydrocarbons as well as solids from triple interceptor traps will be treated on-site at a small (100m x 100m) clay bunded bioremediation pad.

Waste oil will be stored in a bunded compound incorporating either a 10,000 litre waste oil storage tank or a series of 1000 litre bulk containers and will be collected by a licensed waste oil recycler as required. Other hazardous wastes will be removed from site as required.

2.9.5 Hypersaline Waste Water

Approximately 50,000L/annum of hypersaline waste water will be produced from Reverse Osmosis (RO) treatment of mine water to produce potable water. The RO plant will be located at Flying Fox with potable water piped to Spotted Quoll along the proposed dewatering pipeline corridor. Hypersaline waste water from the RO process will be disposed of into McMahons pit and from there into the dewatering disposal pipeline and associated discharge locations. In this way the hypersaline waste water will be diluted with the final TDS being in the order of 70,000mg/L.

2.10 Workforce

It is estimated that at the peak of operations, approximately 100 people will be employed at the Spotted Quoll Mine.

This includes a quarry manager, mine engineer, geologist, surveyor, operators, maintenance staff and contractors. The proposed Spotted Quoll Mine site workforce will be housed at the Cosmic Boy village. The mining contractor will work a two weeks on, one week off roster and WSA staff will work a nine day on, five day off roster, fly-in fly-out from Perth Airport.

2.11 Decommissioning and Mine Closure

Decommissioning and rehabilitation works will commence as soon as practicable following mine closure. In the event that the underground component of the mine is approved, mine closure will be at the conclusion of underground mining operations.

The objective of the works to be undertaken to rehabilitate the site is to achieve a stable and functioning landform which is consistent with surrounding landscape and environmental values. The approach to decommissioning, mine closure and rehabilitation is described in Section 7.15.

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3 JUSTIFICATION AND ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROJECT

3.1 Development Options

In developing this proposal, WSA considered and investigated a number of scenarios for the development of the Spotted Quoll project. Issues considered during option identification and assessment included:

• Open pit design to minimise waste rock production and footprint;

• Centralising concentrator and camp facilities for all WSA operations at alternative sites to minimise the vegetation clearance footprint;

• Location of access and haul roads and other site infrastructure to avoid impact on Declared Rare Flora; and

• Options for storage, disposal and handling of mine water.

The approach selected minimises environmental disturbance to the maximum extent practicable, while still providing a commercially viable project.

3.2 No Development Option

In the current economic downturn, nickel prices are significantly depressed and a number of major mining operations have closed or reduced throughput. This has impacted significantly on employment in the mining industry and the communities that depend on mining for that employment.

In this environment, the Spotted Quoll Nickel Deposit represents a small high grade deposit which can be mined profitably even at current market prices for nickel. If WSA is unable to mine the Spotted Quoll Nickel Deposit, a significant opportunity to increase employment and export earnings will be lost, and economic benefits would also be lost.

WSA considers that the social and economic benefits of the project are significantly greater than the environmental impacts associated with clearing of vegetation and loss of habitat. Notwithstanding, it is essential that strict environmental controls are applied throughout the life of the project.

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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Regional Setting and Climate

The Forrestania Project is located approximately 90kms east of Hyden, 160kms south of Southern Cross and 110kms north of Ravensthorpe within the Yilgarn and Phillips River Mineral Field of Western Australia in the Shire of Kondinin.

The area has low relief and lies 300m to 500m above sea level. Forrestania lies within the Salt Lake or Salinaland physiographic division, which includes most of the wheat belt region of Western Australia. This division is characterised by chains of salt lakes, which are relic river systems. Normally the salt lakes act as surface water sinks, but in exceptionally wet years floodwaters move along the palaeodrainage.

A major topographic divide passes through the Forrestania area separating the palaeodrainages that lead westwards towards the Avon drainage system and those that lead eastwards to the Eucla Basin.

Weather patterns in the general project area are characteristic of a semi-arid to arid climate with relatively low annual rainfall and large temperature range. Data sourced from the nearby Hyden Station (Bureau of Meteorology Station No. 010568), located approximately 72km west of the site show mean maximum temperatures ranging from 16.3°C in July to 33.5°C in January, with an annual mean of 24.8°C. Mean minimum temperatures range from 4.6°C in August to 15.7°C in February with an annual mean minimum temperature of 9.8°C.

Annual rainfall in the area is approximately 344.6mm, and most of the rain falls between May and August. This amount can vary greatly both seasonally and annually.

The average wind speeds at Hyden vary throughout the year from 6.2 - 10.3km/hr in the morning to 8.1 -10.7km/hr in the afternoon. During summer the prevailing winds are easterlies in the morning and strong south easterlies in the afternoon. Throughout winter the morning winds are more north- westerly in direction, with lighter, more directionally variable winds experienced in the afternoon.

Humidity levels vary considerably both seasonally and annually. The mean monthly 9.00 am relative humidity varies from a low of 49% in December/January to a high of 85% in July. The mean monthly 3.00pm relative humidity varies from a low of 26% in January to a high of 58% in July.

4.2 Geology

4.2.1 Regional and Site Geology

The Forrestania Greenstone Belt (FGB) forms part of the southern extension of the Southern Cross Greenstone Belt and comprises a lower sequence of tholeiitic basalt, with up to six ultramafic members and thin banded iron formation and chert units, overlain by psammic to pelitic schists which occupy the core of the regionally north-plunging Forrestania Syncline. The greenstone belts of the Yilgarn craton are major sequences of basic to ultramafic rocks with varying levels of entrained sedimentary rocks laid down semi-contemporaneously. Figure 10 shows the regional geology around the Spotted Quoll Mine site.

The FGB is constrained on its eastern and western boundaries by granitoid rocks that developed during the late Archaean / Proterozoic. The most significant alteration to the greenstone “stack” of mafics, ultramafics, and sediments was the formation of a major synclinal structure. This feature dominates the structural geology of the region.

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4.2.2 Mineralisation

The Spotted Quoll deposit is located within the traditional footwall, away from the basal ultramafic-footwall metasediment contact, which was probably the original locus for sulphide deposition from an overlying pile of komatiite flows. Subsequent metamorphism, deformation and intrusion of granitoid dykes/sills has contributed to a complex setting, with mineralisation now occupying a possible shear zone within the footwall metasediments.

Initial petrography from early drill holes shows the Spotted Quoll deposit is principally a body of matrix magmatic sulphide mineralisation in which the original pentlandite and pyrrhotite assemblage has been strongly overprinted by an arsenic-bearing assemblage dominated by gersdorffite and minor nickeline. Sulphide abundances of 20% to 90% and specific gravities of 2.2 to 4.6 exist. Average nickel grades of ore intersections typically range over 4 - 10% Ni.

The deposit is subject to ongoing drill testing, with the depth extent an artificial boundary imposed at the lowest level of drill testing (currently 350m below surface). Overall the deposit is a relatively flat-dipping (45-50°).

Figure 11 shows the mineralisation of the Spotted Quoll deposit.

4.2.3 Acid Generating Potential

In November 2008, a waste characterisation study was undertaken by Coffey Environments from drill samples provided by WSA. Wastes consist primarily of five groups of oxidised and fresh rock, which are defined in Table 6. The predominant materials are oxidised and non-oxidised komatiitic ultramafic rock, siliceous iron formation and cherty sediment with minor sulphide, metasediment, and lesser amounts of oxidised basalt and grandodiorite.

Table 6 Lithology of the Proposed Spotted Quoll Mine Pit

Approximate Indicative Tonnes Geological Domain Description Width (m) tonnes (%) Komatiitic Ultramafic Rock Metamorphosed komatiite 60m 7,580,000 37.16 Pyrrhotite-gersdorffite- 1-12m 585,000 2.87 nickeline-violarite- Oxidized Komatiitic Ultramafic Rock pentlandite-pyrite sulfide Quartz-sillimanite-mica >50m 5,685,000 27.87 Metasediments metasediments, schist Banded, laminated chert, 50-70m 4,390,000 21.50 Siliceous Iron Formation and Chert siltstone with (minor sulfide) carbonaceous shale Oxidized Basalt Actinolite-chlorite rocks >40m 1,985,000 9.73 Granodiorite 175,000 0.87 20,400,000 100

In summary, 70 samples derived from seven drill holes were collected and submitted to a NATA accredited laboratory for analyses. The samples ranged from 36m to 232m deep, and represented all rock types present in the area of the proposed open pit. Acid base accounting and net acid generation (NAG) tests were used to classify whether the samples were potentially acid forming or non acid forming material.

Results are summarised in Table 7. Laboratory certificates are included as Appendix A.

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Table 7 Acid Generating Potential of Waste Rock from the Proposed Spotted Quoll Open Pit

Total NAG Sulphur Tonnes No of (pH 1 2 3 Tonnes (t) % Samples OX) NAPP ANC %

LITHOLOGY Kg H2SO4/t

Komatiitic Ultramafic Rock and Oxidized Komatiitic Ultramafic Rock 7,580,000 38.3 17 7.45 -26.56 28.63 0.07

Metasediment 5,685,000 28.7 30 6.67 -12.18 14.99 0.11

Siliceous Iron Formation and Chert 4,390,000 22.2 15 6.29 -4.13 24.68 0.42

Oxidized Basalt 1,985,000 10.0 7 4.93 0.16 2.99 0.09

Granodiorite 175,000 0.9 1 5.00 -1.50 2.40 0.03

TOTAL 19,815,000 100.00 70

1 NAG (pH OX) – Net Acid Generation 2 NAPP – Net Acid Producing Potential 3 ANC – Acid Neutralising Capacity

NAPP > 0 Kg H2SO4/t, or NAG < 4.5 Kg H2SO4/t indicating lithology is potentially acid forming

The results indicate that there is minimal likelihood of acid generation from the wastes. Oxidised basalt (10% of waste rock material) existing in the eastern side of the Spotted Quoll pit has a slight Net Acid

Producing Potential (NAPP) of 0.16Kg H2SO4/t. Other lithologies represented are non-acid generating and have acid neutralizing capacities (ANCs) ranging from 2.4Kg H2SO4/t to 28.63Kg H2SO4/t.

Approximately 87.6% of waste rock has ANC levels greater than 14.99Kg H2SO4/t. The weighted average NAPP for all the waste rock lithologies is calculated to be -14.56Kg H2SO4/t, which indicates that there is little risk of acid drainage generating from the waste rock dump.

The NAG test simulates the stoichiometry of pyrite oxidation under natural conditions, and the reaction describing hydrogen peroxide oxidization of pyrite (which is the dominant acid-forming mineral in most mine wastes) to sulfuric acid. A NAG pH less than 4.5 indicates the sample is potentially acid producing (Stewart, Miller & Smart, 2006). The results of the NAG tests conducted provide an additional line of evidence that the oxidised basalt at the Spotted Quoll site is the only lithology likely to produce acid drainage in the right conditions.

4.3 Soils

The Spotted Quoll project lies in the Southern Cross subregion of the Coolgardie Interim Biogeographic Region of Australia (IBRA). Upper levels in the landscape are the eroded elements of a Tertiary lateritic duricrust, with yellow sandplains, gravel and laterite breakaways (Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2008). Lying within the Avon province and in particular the South-Eastern Zone of Southern Drainage subsystem, common soils are sandy

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duplexes (often alkaline), with ironstone gravely soils, loamy earths (often calcareous) with some loamy duplexes, sandy earths, deep sands and saline wet soils (Tille, 2006).

Soil collection in the Spotted Quoll area was undertaken by WSA during April 2008. The soils varied in texture with most being classed between loams and clays by the Australian soil texture classification system. Many of the soils have high clay content with a relatively small number of sands present in the samples.

Soils suitable for testing exhibited minor to low dispersion. Most of the soils are moderately sodic and are unlikely to be strongly dispersive. These clay soils should have reasonable properties in terms of water holding capacity and resistance to compaction. Although it is recommended that disturbance be kept to the minimum (MBS, 2008).

The salinity of the soil was highly variable. Approximately 15% of the samples had EC values >80 which are moderately saline and may cause growth problems for plants that do not have a high tolerance to salinity. However, overall the soils generally had no extreme values and with very few exceptions the nutrient properties are unlikely to restrict the growth of Western Australian native plants that are adapted to these soil types and climatic conditions (MBS, 2008).

4.4 Surface Hydrology

The location of the Spotted Quoll open pit is almost at the watershed of the eastern and western drainage systems at an elevation between 408m AHD to 403m AHD. There is no risk for any significant catchment areas to discharge runoff into the pit and cause serious flooding. Consequently, a detailed hydrological and hydraulic analysis to estimate runoff to design a protective bund around the perimeter is not required. Figure 12 presents the catchment plan for the Spotted Quoll Site.

4.5 Hydrogeology

During groundwater investigations at Spotted Quoll (Rockwater, 2008b) productive aquifers were encountered in:

• fractured and vuggy metabasalt rocks on the eastern (hanging-wall) side of the deposit;

• fractured metasediments and ultramafic rocks above the footwall in the southern part of the deposit;

• fractured footwall metasediments on the western site of the deposit; and

• contacts between metasedimentary rocks and granite intrusions in the southwestern part of the deposit.

Groundwater levels at Spotted Quoll are at 344m to 376m AHD (about 27 to 55 below ground surface), sloping downwards from south-east to north-west. The hydraulic gradient is about 0.01 in the south- eastern sector, and much higher (up to 0.18) in a zone through the northern part of the deposit. The gradients reflect the distribution of aquifer transmissivity: higher transmissivity in the southern and eastern sectors of the deposit than in the north and west (Rockwater, 2008b). Figure 13 presents current inferred groundwater contours and existing bore locations.

The groundwater is hypersaline, with TDS generally in the range of 62,000 to 140,000mg/L (Rockwater, 2008b).

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Six constant-rate tests of 48 hours duration were conducted on bores WWWB2 to 7 to enable determination of aquifer coefficients and the groundwater level response to pumping. Based on the drawdown response the aquifer can be classified as confined or semi-confined (ie the main aquifer zones were overlain by material of low permeability). The drawdown response data show that the cone of depression is irregular indicating that the aquifer system is heterogeneous, as expected in a non- uniform fractured-rock aquifer.

4.6 Flora and Vegetation

WSA commissioned Botanica Consulting to complete a flora and vegetation survey of the New Morning to Spotted Quoll area within Tenements M77/583 and M77/545. The total survey area covered 616.7ha which includes the total area to be cleared (approximately 140ha) for the proposed Spotted Quoll operations.

The objectives of the survey were to:

• Identify and collect flora in the New Morning to Spotted Quoll survey area;

• Describe and map the vegetation types present in the survey area; and

• Assess the vegetation condition using the Keighery (1994) method.

A full copy of the Botanica (2008) report is provided in Appendix B. The information contained in the following section has been adapted from the Botanica report (2008).

4.6.1 Methodology

According to Botanica (2008), the flora and vegetation assessment was planned and implemented as far as practicable according to EPA Guidance Statement No. 51 - Guidance for the Assessment of Terrestrial Factors: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA, 2004).

It is Coffey Environments’ assessment that the survey conducted by Botanica (2008) complies with its understanding of the EPA’s Guidance Statement No. 51, and EPA Position Statement No. 3 – Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA, 2002).

4.6.1.1 Desktop Research

Prior to commencing field investigations, Botanica (2008) undertook a search of the DEC’s Declared Rare Flora (DRF) and Priority Flora database to determine the likelihood of Rare of Priority flora species occurring in the WSA mining tenement areas. A 10km buffer was added to the search area. The results are presented in Appendix C. The location of DRF and Priority flora identified as occurring in the survey area, were overlayed on to an aerial photo. Prior to commencing field work, Botanica (2008) researched the significant flora species on the Western Australian Herbarium’s web page and DEC’s online Florabase application.

Aerial photography was inspected prior to field work to identify obvious variations in vegetation across the survey area.

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4.6.1.2 Field Work

Botanica Consulting (2008) completed the field surveys over five days (8th and 9th October 2007, 8th November 2007, 17th and 18th April 2008). The survey area was assessed by two teams of two people using four wheel drive vehicles, four-wheel motorbikes and on foot as required. Botanica (2008) noted that access through each of the vegetation types were easily accessible at the time of the assessment.

Vegetation types encountered during the survey were described and then examined for the presence/absence of DRF and Priority Flora species. At each sampling location, the following information was recorded:

• GPS location (recorded using a Garmin GPS unit);

• Photograph of vegetation;

• Visual identification of plants within a 50m radius;

• Dominant species;

• Collection and documentation of unknown plant specimens; and

• GPS location, photograph and collection of threatened flora if encountered.

Unknown specimens collected during the survey were identified at the Western Australian Herbarium, and where necessary the appropriate specialists consulted to assist with the identification.

Presence/absence data of species from samples sites of similar vegetation was then compiled forming the two best representative vegetation types. Similar vegetation types were recognised visually in the field.

4.6.1.3 Survey Limitations

The survey work completed by Botanica was mostly conducted within the optimal spring period. This period is considered optimal to enable detection of most ephemeral flora. Additional field work outside of the spring period involved surveying extensions to vegetation groups already surveyed. These surveys were completed in November 2007 and April 2008.

The potential limitations associated with the survey as described above, and identified by Botanica (2008) include:

• The distribution of vegetation types outside of the survey area is not known. However, vegetation types identified were categorised by comparison to vegetation distributions through Western Australia as provided in the Australian Natural Resource Atlas (Australian Government, 2008).

• Rainfall preceding the survey was below average, however July, September and October 2007 rainfall figures were slightly below, or above average rainfall.

4.6.2 Bioregional Context of the Survey Area

4.6.2.1 Bioregional Context

The Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) recognises 85 bioregions with Western Australia supporting 53 biogeographical sub-regions (Environment Australia, 2000).

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The Spotted Quoll project area is located within the Southern Cross sub-region of the Coolgardie IBRA Bioregion. It is positioned at the western extremity of this Bioregion, with the Mallee IBRA Bioregion located further to the west.

The Coolgardie Bioregion is defined by Environment Australia (2000) as comprising the following general features:

“Granite Strata of Yilgarn Craton with Archaean Greenstone intrusions in parallel belts. Drainage is occluded. Mallees and scrubs on sandplains associated with lateritised uplands, playas and granite outcrops. Diverse woodlands rich in endemic eucalypts, on low greenstone hills, valley alluvials and broad plains of calcareous earths. In the west, the scrubs are rich in endemic Proteaceae, in the east they are rich in endemic acacias. Arid to Semi-arid Warm Mediterranean.”

On a regional scale the Coolgardie IBRA Bioregion remains 98.4% uncleared (Department of Industry and Resources, 2006). No threatened ecological communities are listed for the Southern Cross sub-region of the Coolgardie IBRA Bioregion (CALM, 2001).

4.6.2.2 Beard’s Mapping

The Spotted Quoll project area is located within the Roe Botanical District (in the Forrestania System) of the South-West Botanical Province (Beard, 1981). The Forrestania system is developed on a greenstone belt, and comprises a variety of communities which are controlled by the underlying geology largely in a mosaic form (Beard, 1981).

The vegetation in the vicinity of the Spotted Quoll project area consists mainly of Woodlands of Salmon Gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) and Morrell (Eucalyptus longicornis) with areas of Shrublands containing Casuarina – Acacia – Melaleuca thickets as well as Mallees (Eucalyptus spp. with heath understorey) and Scrub Heath (mainly consisting of mixed Proteaceae – Myrtaceae).

4.6.3 Flora

A total of 151 plant taxa represented across 62 Genera and 25 families were recorded in the survey area. No exotic species were identified during the survey.

The dominant families represented from the survey included Myrtaceae (45 native species), Proteaceae (26 native species) and Mimosaceae (18 native species).

Dominant species in the area included:

• Acacia steedmanii

• Allocasuarina campestris, A. acutivalvis and A. corniculata

• Eucalyptus calycogona, E. pileata, E. salmonophloia, E. eremophila, E. cylindrocarpa, E. leptophylla, E. flocktoniae, E. urna and E. salubris

A complete list of flora recorded during the survey is provided in Appendix D.

4.6.4 Conservation Significance of Flora

The DEC Declared Rare and Priority Flora database search identified the potential for 93 DRF or Priority Flora (Appendix C) to be in, or within 10km of, the survey area. Of these 93 species, 1 was

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DRF – presumed extinct, 6 were DRF, 24 were Priority 1 species, 18 were Priority 2 species, 31 were Priority 3 species and 13 were Priority 4 species.

One DRF and two Priority Flora were recorded by Botanica (2008) during the survey. These were:

• Eucalyptus steedmanii (DRF);

• Eremophilia racemosa (Priority 4); and

• Microcorys sp. Forrestania (Priority 4).

In addition to the above two priority species, the DEC have previously recorded one Priority 2 species (Stylidium sejunctum) within the survey area. However, this species was not recorded by Botanica during the spring 2007 and autumn 2008 surveys.

The three Priority species (including the DEC recorded Stylidium sejunctum) were recorded within one kilometre of the Spotted Quoll project area and pipeline corridor.

4.6.4.1 Declared Rare Flora Distribution and Size

There are six known populations of Eucalyptus steedmanii and all six populations are located in the Forrestania region. The locations of these populations are provided in Table 8 and Figure 14. The populations are located up to approximately 24km between the most southern and northern populations in a north – south belt, and within a narrow east – west belt of a few kilometres. Population 6 (the most northern population) is isolated from populations 4 and 5 which in turn is separated from populations 1, 2 and 3A/3B. All populations are located within Eucalypt woodland.

A search of the DEC’s Threatened (Declared Rare) Flora database (lodged 12/12/08 and received 16/12/08, Reference Number 42-1208) returned two records with population estimates (refer to Appendix C for search results). Populations 2 and 3A are estimated at 8,000 and 4,000 respectively. The DEC Native Vegetation Conservation Branch advised WSA on the 11/12/08 that populations 2, 3A and 3B had been incorrectly plotted, and that this error had been corrected. Coffey Environments has assumed that the locations supplied by DEC (Reference Number 42-1208) were the amended coordinates.

The Western Australian Herbarium database was searched for records of Eucalyptus steedmanii (refer to Appendix C for search results). A number of records exist on the database. Where population estimates have been recorded in the Western Australian Herbarium database, coordinates were cross- referenced with those from the DEC database search results. The Western Australian Herbarium database search results and population numbers are presented in Table 8.

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Table 8 DEC Eucalyptus steedmanii Population Locations

Coordinates DEC WA Herbarium Population Records of Population Size Population Size Comment Latitude Longitude Estimate Estimate and (1994) Year of Record Several hundred Unallocated Crown Land (1978) 1 32o26’49.5” 119o41’04.3” - Coordinates for WA 3 plants (1978) Herbarium record in 1978 3000+ (2002) match closest to Population 1 2 32o28’44.6” 119o41’38.4” 8,000 Unallocated Crown Land 3a 32o28’52.2” 119o40’39.7” 4,000 Unallocated Crown Land Road Verge Herbarium record in 1989 and 30+ (1989) 3b 32o28’52.2” 119o40’39.7” - 2006 match closest to 1 (2006) Population 3a/3b. 1989 record estimates population in excess of 100,000.

2,500+ (2002) Unallocated Crown Land. 2002 Herbarium record o o 4,000+ (2002) 4 32 18’55.5” 119 42’05.3” - estimates in excess of 5,000 1,000s of plants plants possibly at this (2003) location, or population 6. 5 32o20’45.5” 119o43’05.3” - Unallocated Crown Land Unallocated Crown Land 2002 Herbarium record o o 6 32 12’55.5” 119 39’05.3” - estimates in excess of 5,000 plants possibly at this location, or population 4.

Information on the known population estimates is not clear. DEC records indicate that there are six populations, of which two populations (2 and 3A) have been estimated at 8,000 and 4,000 plants respectively. The WA Herbarium records dating back from 1978 suggest the known population to be in excess of 100,000 across the six populations (Appendix C). Botanica’s population estimates included in the monitoring results are based on extrapolation of transect data; suggest the total number of plants across all six populations to be in excess of 5,400,000 plants (Table 9).

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Table 9 Botanica Extrapolated Eucalyptus steedmanii Population Estimates

Extrapolated Population Estimate Extrapolated Population Estimate DEC Population Name by Botanica – Autumn 2008 by Botanica – Spring 2008

1 276,489 297,300 2 8,940 8,940 3 4,272 4,272 4 3,854,360 3,877,440 5 1,224,694 1,246,370 TOTAL 5,368,755 5,434,322

NB: Monitoring of Population 6 did not take place.

4.6.4.2 Distribution of Conservation Significant Flora at Spotted Quoll

The location of known populations (based on Botanica, DEC, CALM and WA Herbarium records) of DRF and Priority species in relation to the proposed mining operation at Spotted Quoll are shown in Figure 15. No known DRF are located within the clearing envelope for the project.

Of the Priority 4 species recorded in the region, none are located within the proposed clearing envelope for the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine. A single Priority 2 specimen, (Stylidium sejunctum), recorded by DEC, is located within the clearing envelope, however, this species was not recorded by Botanica during the spring 2007 and autumn 2008 surveys.

4.6.5 Vegetation Types

Six vegetation types were mapped in the Botanica survey area, these were: • Eucalyptus Woodland; • Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland; • Salmon Gum Woodland; • Sand Plain Heath; • Allocasuarina Shrubland; and • Rocky Outcrop. The majority of the vegetation in the clearing envelope of the Spotted Quoll project site is Eucalyptus Woodland (73.5%) and Salmon Gum Woodland (17%). There are also minor representations of Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland (7.5%), Allocasuarina Woodland (0.8%), Sand Plain Heath (1%) and Rocky Outcrop (0.2%) vegetation. The vegetation types present in the project area and the clearing envelope can be seen in Figure 15.

4.6.5.1 Eucalyptus Woodland

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Dominant overstorey species in this vegetation type include Eucalyptus flocktoniae, E. urna, and E. salubris. Vegetation assemblages of dominant species according to Muir (1977) for the vegetation type are provided in Table 10. Table 10 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Eucalyptus Woodland

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Trees 5 – 15m 10% – 30% Eucalyptus flocktoniae, E. urna, and E. salubris

Shrubs 1.5 – 2m 10% – 30% Melaleuca adnata and Grevillea obliquistigma

Shrubs 0.5 – 1m 10% – 30% Acacia eremophila, Eremophila densiflora, and Melaleuca cardiophylla

Shrubs <0.5m 10% – 30% Microcybe multiflora, Dodonaea stenozyga, Wilsonia humilis and Acacia intricata

Sedges >0.5m 2% – 10% Lepidosperma brunonianum

4.6.5.2 Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland

Dominant overstorey species in this vegetation type were Eucalyptus eremophila subsp. eremophila, E. cylindrocarpa and E. leptophylla. Vegetation assemblages of dominant species according to Muir (1977) for the vegetation type are provided in Table 11. Table 11 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Trees <5m 10% – 30% Eucalyptus eremophila subsp. eremophila and E. cylindrocarpa

Shrubs 1.5 – 2m 10% – 30% Acacia coolgardiensis, Melaleuca hamata, and M. pauperiflora subsp. pauperiflora

Shrubs 0.5 – 1m 10% – 30% Acacia hemiteles, Melaleuca cordata and M. cucullata

Shrubs <0.5m 10% – 30% Dodonaea bursariifolia, Phebalium tuberculosum and Grevillea acuaria

Sedges >0.5m 2% – 10% Lepidosperma brunonianum

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4.6.5.3 Salmon Gum Woodland

The dominant species in this vegetation type was Eucalyptus salmonophloia. Vegetation assemblages according to Muir (1977) are provided in Table 12. Table 12 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Salmon Gum Woodland

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Trees >30m 10% – 30% Eucalyptus salmonophloia

Shrubs 1.5 – 2m 10% – 30% Melaleuca adnata, M. hamata and M. pauperiflora subsp. pauperiflora

Shrubs 0.5 – 1m 10% – 30% Eremophila decipiens subsp. decipiens and Daviesia benthamii

Shrubs <0.5m 10% – 30% Dodonaea stenozyga, Phebalium tuberculosum and Grevillea acuaria

Sedges >0.5m 2% – 10% Lepidosperma brunonianum

4.6.5.4 Sand Plain Heath

The dominant species in this vegetation type was Eucalyptus salmonophloia. Vegetation assemblages according to Muir (1977) are provided in Table 13.

Table 13 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Sand Plain Heath

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Shrubs 1.5 – 2m 30% – 70% Allocasuarina corniculata, Acacia fragilis and Leptospermum erubescens

Shrubs 0.5 – 1m 30% – 70% Melaleuca uncinata, Thyrptomene kochii and Banksia cirsioides

Shrubs <0.5m 30% – 70% Leptosema daviesioides, Verticordia chrysanthella and Darwinia inconspicua

Sedges >0.5m 10% – 30% Lepidosperma brunonianum and L. drummondii

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4.6.5.5 Allocasuarina Shrubland

The dominant species in this vegetation type were Allocasuarina campestris, A. acutivalvis and Acacia steedmanii. Vegetation assemblages according to Muir (1977) are provided in Table 14.

Table 14 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Allocasuarina Shrubland

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Trees >30m 10% – 30% Allocasuarina campestris and A. acutivalvis

Shrubs 0.5 – 1m 10% – 30% Acacia steedmanii

Shrubs <0.5m 10% – 30% Melaleuca pentagona, M. laxiflora and Conospermum brownie

Sedges >0.5m 2% – 10% Lepidosperma drummondii

4.6.5.6 Rocky Outcrop

The dominant species in this vegetation type were Eucalyptus calycogona and E. pileata. Vegetation assemblages according to Muir (1977) are provided in Table 15.

Table 15 Vegetation Assemblages of Dominant Species according to Muir (1977) for the Rocky Outcrop Woodland

Life Form / Height Class Canopy Cover Dominant Species Present

Trees <5m 10% – 30% Eucalyptus calycogona and E. pileata

Shrubs 1 – 1.5m 10% – 30% Melaleuca hamata, Hakea subsulcata and Acacia hemiteles

Shrubs <0.5m 10% – 30% Atriplex stipitata and Hibbertia pungens

4.6.6 Vegetation Condition

The condition of vegetation in the survey area was assessed using the condition rating scale of Keighery (1994) published in Bush Forever (Government of Western Australia, 2000). Keighery’s condition rating scale ranges from Pristine (where vegetation exhibits no visible signs of disturbance) to Completely Degraded (where vegetation structure is no longer intact and without native plant species).

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Botanica (2008) considered the vegetation in the survey area to be classified as Good. According to the Keighery (1994) condition rating scale, Good is defined as:

Vegetation structure significantly altered, by very obvious signs of multiple disturbance. Retains basic vegetation structure or ability to regenerate it. For example, disturbance to vegetation structure caused by very frequent fires, the presence of some very aggressive weeds at high density, partial clearing, dieback and grazing.

Botanica’s (2008) opinion on the vegetation condition was influenced by evidence of historic exploration lines and an existing track. It should be noted that a fire had burnt part of the survey area in 1994. There was no evidence of broadscale clearing for agricultural purposes, or invasive weed species.

4.6.7 Conservation Significance of Vegetation

The Spotted Quoll project area is located within the EPA Red Book area 11.10.

Botanica (2008) concluded that the survey area does not contain any threatened ecological communities. This conclusion is also consistent with CALM (2001) who state that no threatened ecological communities are listed for the Southern Cross sub-region of the Coolgardie IBRA Bioregion. The Coolgardie IBRA Bioregion is largely uncleared with 98.4% of this region remaining uncleared (DoIR, 2006).

According to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts’ (DEWHA) Protected Matters Search Tool, the survey area has no regional significance (Botanica, 2008).

Of the two Beard Vegetation Associations mapped in the Spotted Quoll project area, 70.5% of Vegetation Association 511 (Salmon Gum and Morrel Woodland) remains in Western Australia, and 48.4% remains of Vegetation Association 2048 (Shrublands; scrub heath in mallee region) state-wide (Shepherd, Beeston and Hopkins, 2001).

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5 FAUNA

5.1 Background

A range of fauna surveys and investigations in the Forrestania region have been commissioned by WSA. These investigations included:

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2006a). Forrestania Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2006b). Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2007a). Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2007b). Forrestania Fauna Monitoring Survey – Flying Fox Phases III and IV. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2008a). Summary of Field Activities for January 2008. Letter report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2008b). Interim Results of Forrestania Mygalopmorph Studies, December 2008. Letter report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2008c). Carnaby’s Cockatoo Habitat Assessment: Diggers South and Mossco, Forrestania. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Biota Environmental Sciences (2008d). Forrestania Targeted Malleefowl Survey. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

Copies of the above reports are provided in Appendices E – L, however a brief summary of the key fauna investigations is provided in subsequent sections of this document.

The DEC has advised WSA that due to the extensive fauna surveys conducted in the Forrestania region and the similarities of habitats in the surveyed areas with habitats at the Spotted Quoll site that further detailed fauna investigations at Spotted Quoll are not required (Appendix M). However the DEC has requested that a desktop review of previous work, in conjunction with targeted assessments for fauna of conservation significance be undertaken. This approach is considered by the DEC as being sufficient fauna survey effort for the purposes of this EPS. The following documents have been prepared as a result of various targeted investigations in the Spotted Quoll area.

• Johnstone, R.E., Johnstone, C. and Kirkby, T. (2008). Assessment of Significant Habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Western Rosella and Chuditch in the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal, Forrestania. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008). Spotted Quoll Fauna Assessment. Letter report prepared for Coffey Environments on behalf of Western Areas NL.

• Rockwater (2008c). Preliminary Stygofauna Investigation. Unpublished report prepared for Western Areas NL.

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• Bennelongia (2008). Troglofauna Occurrence at Western Areas. Letter report prepared for Western Areas NL.

• Keith Lindbeck and Associates (2008b). Assessment of the Potential for Presence of Troglofauna Species at Spotted Quoll Nickel Resource, Forrestania – Examination of Drill Core from Spotted Quoll. Letter report prepared for Western Areas NL.

These reports are provided in Appendices N – R.

5.2 Overview of Forrestania Fauna Reports

5.2.1 Forrestania Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report (Biota, 2006a)

The following information has been adapted from Biota (2006a). A full copy of the report is provided in Appendix E.

Biota was commissioned to undertake a fauna habitat and fauna assemblage survey within the Forrestania project area. This survey was undertaken for WSA prior to clearing of native vegetation within a 23ha area associated with the Flying Fox Mine located six km north of the proposed Spotted Quoll operation.

5.2.1.1 Methods

Prior to conducting field work, a search of the Threatened Fauna Database managed by the Department of Conservation and Land Management (now DEC) and the Western Australian Museum (WAM) FaunaBase Database was commissioned in 2006 for threatened fauna records in the vicinity of the survey area (Biota, 2006a). Search areas included a 50km buffer extending beyond the survey area (Biota, 2006a).

The fauna survey was conducted in February/March 2005 (over eight days) and November 2005 (over six days). The survey was planned and implemented, where practicable, in accordance with EPA Position Statement No. 3 Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA, 2002) and EPA Guidance Statement No. 56 Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact in Western Australia (EPA, 2004).

The survey consisted of ten trapping grids, each located in a defined habitat (Biota, 2006a). Each grid consisted of a single row of 6 pitfall traps (alternating 20 litre buckets and PVC tubes), spaced at approximately 10m intervals and connected with a single length high flywire fence (Biota, 2006a). In addition, a single line of 6 medium sized, baited Elliott traps were installed over a 60m transect at each site (Biota, 2006a). Finally a single cage trap was installed at each site (Biota, 2006a).

Two additional Elliott trap lines were installed, consisting of 15 traps installed 25m apart over a 375m transect (Biota, 2006a). Further, a single trap line comprising 15 cage traps spaced 50m apart over a 750m transect was installed (Biota, 2006a).

Bat echolocation calls were recorded using two Anabat II bat detectors (at two locations), which detect and transform ultrasonic echolocation emitted during bat foraging (Biota, 2006a).

Avifauna censuses were conducted across 10 sites during the survey, and were typically conducted from 6.00a.m. through to 10.00a.m. (Biota, 2006a).

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Targeted invertebrate groups were sampled through systematic and opportunistic collections during the surveys (Biota, 2006a).

A range of non-systematic fauna survey activities were also conducted by the survey team to supplement the trapping and to investigate additional habitats identified during the survey (Biota, 2006a). These included habitat specific searches for Schedule and Priority listed fauna species, searching of microhabitats for reptile, frog and small mammal species, opportunistic sightings and reports, identification of road kills and other animal remains, recording and identification of secondary signs (e.g. tracks, scats and diggings) where possible (Biota, 2006a).

5.2.2 Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey: Fauna and Faunal Assemblages Report (Biota, 2006b)

The following information has been adapted from Biota (2006b). A full copy of the report is provided in Appendix F.

Biota was commissioned by WSA to undertake a fauna survey along a subterranean water disposal pipeline route between the Flying Fox mine to Digger Rocks. The construction of the pipeline required the clearing of 10.2ha of native vegetation along the proposed pipeline route. Of the 10.2ha, 3.6ha of native vegetation was located in an Environmentally Sensitive Area (EPA Red Book recommendation 11.10 (EPA, 1993)).

5.2.2.1 Methods

The fauna survey as conducted in May 2006 (over seven days). The survey was planned and implemented, where practicable, in accordance with EPA Position Statement No. 3 Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA, 2002) and EPA Guidance Statement No. 56 Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact in Western Australia (EPA, 2004).

The central component of the systematic censusing consisted of 8 trapping grids, each located within a defined habitat, one Elliott trap-line and a harp net. Each grid consisted of:

• A single row of 6 pitfall traps (alternating 20 litre buckets and PVC tubes), spaced at approximately 10m intervals and connected with a single length of 30cm high flywire fence;

• A single line of 6 medium sized, baited Elliott traps along a 60m transect; and

• A single cage trap.

An additional Elliott trap line was installed, consisting of 25 Elliott traps installed 25m apart over a 625m transect. Further, a single harp net designed to capture bats was erected at a site over still water. This was opened for 5 nights, otherwise all grids were open for 6 trap nights (FR11 open for 5 nights) giving a total trap effort of 432 Elliott trap nights, 282 pit-trap nights, 47 cage-trap nights and 5 harp net trap nights.

Three vehicular transects were carried out at night along the pipeline route (May 5th & May 6th). This included two transects from Cosmic Boy to Flying Fox and one transect from Cosmic Boy to Digger Rocks.

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In addition, invertebrate fauna was collected at each of the systematic trapping grids and opportunistic collecting was undertaken at locations likely to support fauna of conservation significance, including Short Range Endemics.

Avifauna was sampled using an unbounded area search at each of the eight systematic trapping grids. A minimum of two 30 minute surveys were conducted at each site, and all birds seen or heard within that habitat were recorded.

Non-systematic fauna survey activities were undertaken by the survey team to supplement the trapping and investigate additional habitats identified during the course of the survey. These included habitat specific searches, opportunistic sightings and records, identification of road kills and other animal remains, and recording and identification of secondary signs (including tracks, scats and diggings).

5.2.3 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a)

The following information has been adapted from Biota (2007a). A full copy of the report is provided in Appendix G.

Biota was commissioned by WSA to undertake a fauna survey complete a baseline fauna survey of the Digger Rocks South mine and a proposed water disposal pipeline. The development of the mine (and associated infrastructure) required the clearing of approximately 85ha of native vegetation.

The Digger Rocks south mine is located approximately 36km south of the flying Fox mine, and 30km south of the proposed Spotted Quoll mine.

5.2.3.1 Methods

Biota (2007a) reviewed the results from the Threatened Fauna Database (managed by the DEC) and the WAM’s FaunaBase Database that was commissioned in 2006 for threatened fauna records in the vicinity of the Flying Fox mine located 35km to the north of the Digger Rocks south mine. The search areas included a 50km buffer extending beyond the Flying Fox mine, thereby encompassing the Digger Rocks south mine. An EPBC Act 1999 Protected Matters Report was also conducted using a point search at co-ordinate -32.7175°S, 119.8086°E (the existing Digger Rocks mine).

The fauna survey as conducted in November 2006 (over eight days). The survey was planned and implemented, where practicable, in accordance with EPA Position Statement No. 3 Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA, 2002) and EPA Guidance Statement No. 56 Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact in Western Australia (EPA, 2004).

Twelve trapping grids in habitats considered to represent the range of elements available within the survey area were installed. An additional Elliott trap line was installed, consisting of 25 Elliott traps installed approximately 25m apart over a 625m transect. An additional single trap line was also installed, comprising 15 cage traps spaced approximately 40m apart over a 600m transect.

Each survey site was installed within a defined habitat. All sites were selected such that equal weight was given to accessibility of the sites in terms of regular inspection of pit-fall, cage and Elliott traps.

Each pit-trap line was based on six pit-fall traps, comprising alternating twenty litre buckets and PVC tubes (150mm diameter x 700mm deep) connected by a 60m long by 30cm high flywire drift fence. Six Elliott traps and one cage trap were then placed adjacent to the pit-fall trap line.

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Sampling of avifauna in the study area was carried out using a combination of techniques including:

• Unbounded area searches (40 minutes) conducted at all of systematic sampling grids; and

• Opportunistic observations of birds recorded while driving through the study area.

Twenty-five avifauna censuses were completed across 12 sites during the survey period. Individual censuses were confined to discrete habitats types typically corresponding to vegetation types. Additional opportunistic records were made of species not documented during censuses or which were uncommon.

Bat echolocation calls were recorded using an Anabat II bat detector, which detects and records ultrasonic echolocation calls emitted during bat flight. Sampling was undertaken at one location only. In addition, a harp net was deployed in an attempt to capture microbats. The calls were stored on a compact flash card after being processed by an Anabat CF ZCAIM. Calls were visualised on Analook 4.3f software. Only sequences containing good quality search phase calls were considered for identification.

Invertebrate groups targeted during the survey included Araneae (specifically trapdoor spiders), Pseudoscorpionida (pseudoscorpions), Diplopoda (millipedes) and Pulmonata (land snails).

Trapdoor spiders were targeted by searching for and excavating burrows. Individuals were subsequently preserved in 70 percent ethanol, with one leg removed and placed in 100 percent ethanol for future genetic studies.

Hand foraging was undertaken for pseudoscorpions, involving peeling bark and lifting rocks. The remaining two groups (millipedes and land snails) were searched for whilst raking leaf litter and other debris.

A range of non-systematic fauna survey activities was undertaken by the survey team to supplement the trapping and investigate additional habitats identified during the course of the survey. These included:

• Habitat specific searches for Schedule and Priority listed fauna species;

• Searching (including head-torching) of microhabitats for reptile, frog and small mammal species;

• Opportunistic sightings and records;

• Identification of road kills and other animal remains; and

• Recording and identification of secondary signs (where possible) including tracks, scats and diggings.

5.2.4 Forrestania Fauna Monitoring Survey – Flying Fox Phase III and IV (Biota, 2007b)

The following information has been adapted from Biota (2007b). A full copy of the report is provided in Appendix H.

Biota was commissioned to undertake an on-going fauna assemblage monitoring survey within the Forrestania project area, specifically surrounding the Flying Fox mine.

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5.2.4.1 Methods

A search was commissioned of the Threatened Fauna Database held by the DEC in January 2006 for threatened fauna records in the vicinity of the Flying Fox mine, including a 50km buffer. In addition, the Western Australian Museum FaunaBase database was also searched for records of vouchered fauna specimens in the vicinity of the Flying Fox mine. Finally, an EPBC Act 1999 Protected Matters Report was conducted using a point search with a 50km buffer at co-ordinate -32.43°S, 119.685°E (the existing Digger Rocks mine).

The Phase III survey (including trap installation) was conducted over a seven-day period between 03/05/06 and 09/05/06. The Phase IV survey was conducted over a seven-day period between 24/11/06 to 30/11/06.

The survey was planned and implemented according to the EPA Position Statement No. 3 Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA, 2002) and Guidance Statement No. 56 Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA, 2004).

The central component of the systematic census consisted of 14 trapping grids each located within a defined habitat. In selecting survey sites, consideration was given to accessibility of sites such that trap lines could be regularly checked.

Ten trapping grids consisted of a single row of six pitfall traps (alternating 20 litre buckets and 60cm long PVC tubes) spaced at approximately 10m intervals and connected with a single length (60m) of 30cm high flywire fence. A single cage trap and six medium-sized Elliott traps were also installed at each of the pitfall sites.

An additional Elliott trap/cage trap line was installed, consisting of 20 Elliott traps installed 25m apart and 10 cage traps installed 50m apart over a 500m transect. Further, an additional single trap line comprising 14 cage traps spaced 50m apart over a 70 0m transect was installed during Phase III only. All grids were open for five trap nights giving.

Bat echolocation calls were recorded using an Anabat II bat detector, which detects and transforms ultrasonic echolocation emitted during bat foraging. Sampling was undertaken at two locations. In addition, a harp net was deployed in an attempt to capture microbats.

The majority of captured specimens were released following identification. However, reptiles with ambiguous characteristics or unresolved species complexes were transported live to the Western Australian Museum for identification and lodgement.

The avifauna was sampled using an unbounded area search. For both phases of the survey, area searches were conducted across 10 sites for a period of 40 minutes, so that each site was surveyed at least twice during each survey phase. Censuses were typically conducted between 6:00a.m. and 10:00a.m. each day.

Targeted invertebrate groups were sampled through systematic and opportunistic collections during the surveys.

A range of non-systematic fauna survey activities was undertaken by the survey team to supplement the trapping and investigate additional habitats identified during the survey. These included habitat specific searches for Schedule and Priority listed fauna species, searching of microhabitats for reptile, frog and small mammal species, opportunistic sightings and reports, identification of road kills and other

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animal remains, recording and identification of secondary signs (e.g. tracks, scats and diggings) where possible.

5.2.5 Carnaby’s Cockatoo Habitat Assessment: Diggers South and Mossco, Forrestania (Biota, 2008c)

The general scope of work was to undertake a targeted assessment of habitat utilisation by Carnaby’s Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris), listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act 1999 and as Schedule fauna under the State Wildlife Conservation Act 1950-1979. Specifically, the requirements were to:

• Conduct a field survey of potential Carnaby’s Cockatoo habitat within the project area to identify signs of use for breeding, feeding or roosting;

• Identify trees used for breeding, feeding and roosting and log their locations;

• Review proposed clearing envelopes and assess potential impacts on Carnaby’s Cockatoos on a local and regional scale; and

• Identify any significant impacts and provide recommendations for mitigation of impacts.

The survey focused on four main areas:

• The area encompassing the proposed Diggers South mine;

• Remnant woodlands on the Mossco farm, west of Diggers Rocks;

• Salmon Gum woodland in three areas, 50m either side of the Forrestania Road, South of Cosmic Boy camp; and

• The old evaporation pond area.

The survey was carried out on 24th - 25th January 2008 by Ron Johnstone and Tony Kirkby who operated as sub-consultants to Biota. All trees with large hollows deemed ‘significant’ were inspected with binoculars for signs of use by cockatoos. These included wear around the hollow, chewing, scarring and scratch marks on trunks and branches. Trees with possible nest sites were scratched and raked with a pole to flush any sitting birds form hollows. Any calls of chicks from within hollows were noted, as were breeding calls of any adults in the area.

Several trees were climbed using extension ladders and hollows checked for indication of cockatoo use, i.e. feathers, egg fragments and wood chips (small cigar-shaped wood chips that are chewed from the sides of the hollow by the female). In addition, any old or recent evidence of cockatoos feeding in the area was noted, as was evidence of roost sites (feathers and droppings etc.). All trees with possible nest hollows were spatially located using GPS.

5.2.6 Forrestania Targeted Malleefowl Survey (Biota, 2008d)

Biota was commissioned in March and April 2008 to undertake Malleefowl survey work in the Forrestania area. The general scope of work was to undertake a targeted assessment of habitat utilisation by the Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellata), which is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999 and as Schedule fauna (Schedule 1, vulnerable) under the State Wildlife Conservation Act 1950-1979. Specifically, the requirements were to:

• Conduct a field survey of potential habitat for the Malleefowl within the project area;

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• Identify and log GPS co-ordinates of Malleefowl signs, predominantly via the presence of nesting mounds;

• Review proposed clearing envelopes and assess potential impacts on Malleefowl on a local and regional scale; and

• Identify any significant impacts and provide recommendations for mitigation of impacts.

Surveys were conducted between the 25th – 28th March 2008, and from 28th April – 5th May 2008 across seven sites (including the Spotted Quoll site) in the Forrestania Region.

The survey areas were traversed on foot, with the survey team members walking 10m apart. Any evidence of Malleefowl was recorded, along with its location. Habitat was also assessed as to its suitability for Malleefowl nesting and habitation.

5.3 Database Search Results

The results of the database searches (DEC Threatened and Priority Fauna, the WA Museum Faunbase and the EPBC Act 1999 Protected Matters) are summarised in Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) (refer to Appendices E to H). Based on the database searches, the potential fauna in the Forrestania region could comprise of:

• 13 amphibian species;

• 56 reptile species;

• 47 avifauna species; and

• 23 mammal species.

5.4 Combined Fauna Results from the Forrestania Region

The following information has been compiled based on reports prepared by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b). It represents a compilation of fauna survey results.

5.4.1 Herpetofauna

The combined Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) investigations recorded a total of 41 herpetofauna species in the Forrestania region (Appendix S1). This total comprised of three frogs, seven geckoes, 13 skinks, four legless lizards, five dragons, two monitors, one blind snake and six front-fanged snakes.

The most abundant species recorded was Crenadactylus ocellatus, with 58 records representing 14.6% of all herpetofauna records. Additionally, Diplodactylus maini, Diplodactylus granariensis and Ctenotus schomburgkii were relatively common, representing 11%, 7.5% and 6.5% respectively of all records.

Where possible, species data collected by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) was analysed by Coffey Environments according to habitat types (Table 16). This analysis highlighted that herpetofaunal species diversity between each habitat type was consistent between habitats, with the Shrubland habitat type recording the least diversity. This could be representative of survey effort in this habitat type, or a reflection that species’ specific requirements are not contained in this habitat type.

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Table 16 Herpetofauna by Habitat Type

Total Habitat Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Not No. Known Known Habitats No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Recorded Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals In

Myobatrachidae Crinia pseudinsignifera 0 0 0 2 1 1 Heleioporus albopunctatus 20 0 0 3 0 2 Neobatrachus sp. 0 1 0 0 0 1 Scincidae Cryptoblepharus 8 9 3 4 0 4 plagiocephalus Ctenotus impar 1 0 0 7 0 2 Ctenotus schomburgkii 5 7 3 11 0 4 Egernia multiscutata 1 0 0 1 0 2 Egernia richardi 3 2 0 0 0 2 Hemiergis initialis 0 8 0 2 0 2 Lerista distinguenda 4 4 0 0 0 2 Lerista dorsalis 0 0 0 1 0 1 Lerista picturata 3 3 2 0 0 3 Menetia greyii 0 1 0 0 0 1 Morethia obscura 5 10 0 2 0 3 Tiliqua occipitalis 1 0 0 1 0 2 Tiliqua rugosa 0 2 1 2 0 3 Agamidae Ctenophorus cristatus 2 11 0 0 0 2 Ctenophorus maculatus 5 2 1 12 0 4 Moloch horridus 0 0 0 4 0 1 Pogona minor 3 2 2 7 0 4 Rankinia adelaidensis 1 0 0 8 0 2 Gekkonidae Crenadactylus ocellatus 14 36 1 7 0 4 Diplodactylus granariensis 6 18 3 3 0 4 Diplodactylus maini 2 29 0 11 2 3 Diplodactylus pulcher 0 0 0 3 0 1 Gehyra variegata 2 2 0 0 0 2 Oedura reticulata 2 1 1 0 0 3 Underwoodisaurus milii 0 2 0 0 0 1 Pygopodidae Delma australis 1 1 0 2 0 3

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Total Habitat Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Not No. Known Known Habitats No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Recorded Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals In

Delma fraseri 2 3 0 1 0 3 Lialis burtonis 1 0 0 1 0 2 Pygopus lepidopodus 1 0 0 0 0 1 Elapidae Echiopsis curta 0 2 0 0 0 1 Paraplocephalus atriceps 0 0 0 0 1 0 Parasuta gouldii 1 5 0 1 1 3 Parasuta nigriceps 0 1 0 0 0 1 Pseudonaja affinis 0 0 1 5 1 2 Simoselaps bertholdi 1 2 0 0 0 2 Typhlopidae Ramphotyphlops australis 2 6 1 1 0 4 Varanidae Varanus gouldii 0 0 0 0 3 0 Varanus rosenbergii 0 0 0 0 1 0 Number of individuals 97 170 19 102 10 Number of species 26 26 11 25 7

Based on the fauna investigations, Biota (2007b) concluded that further surveys of the region may yield additional herpetofaunal species, however, it is likely that the species observed in the region are most likely to represent the more common and easily collected species (Biota, 2007b). The uncollected species are likely to be at naturally low densities, or less easily collected with common survey techniques, and therefore considerable additional sampling effort would be required in order to record a small number of extra species (Biota, 2007b). Given that only one conservation significant herpetofauna species (Morelia spilata imbricata) is listed as potentially occurring in the study area, it is considered that further survey effort for herpetofaunal species is not warranted.

5.4.2 Avifauna

The combined Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a, 2007b and 2008) investigations recorded a total of 78 bird species in the Forrestania region (Appendix S2).

The most abundant bird species recorded was Anthochaera carunculata (Red Wattlebird) followed by Smicrornis brevirostris (Weebill) which were recorded on 352 and 184 times respectively. The honeyeater family (Meliphagidae) was the most abundant family of birds in terms of species diversity and numbers of individuals recorded.

Where possible, species data collected by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) was analysed by Coffey Environments according to habitat types (Table 17). This analysis highlighted that avifaunal species diversity between each habitat type was consistent between habitats, with the Mallee and Woodland habitats recording the highest diversity followed by Heath and then Shrubland. These

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habitats offer significant vertical stratification providing a variety of habitat niches required to support high avifauna diversity, a well documented trend (Wiens, 1989; Halpern Glick Maunsell, 1998).

Table 17 Avifauna by Habitat Type

Total Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Known No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals

Acanthizidae Acanthiza apicalis Broad-tailed Thornbill 33 68 21 89 4 Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill 1 1 0 0 11 Chestnut-rumped Acanthiza uropygialis Thornbill 4 0 0 1 0 Calamanthus campestris# Rufous Fieldwren 0 0 0 6 0 Gerygone fusca fusca Western Gerygone 1 4 1 2 0 Hylacola cauta# Shy Groundwren 23 7 4 18 3 Pyrrholaemus brunneus Redthroat 11 15 1 5 2 Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill 193 256 25 117 51 Accipitridae Accipiter cirrocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk 0 1 1 0 0 Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle 1 3 0 1 0 Aquila morphnoides Little Eagle 1 0 0 0 0 Hamirostra isura Square-tailed Kite 0 1 0 1 2 Aegothelidae Australian Owlet- Aegotheles cristatus Nightjar 1 0 0 0 0 Artamidae Artamus cinereus Black-faced melanops Woodswallow 1 1 4 0 0 Artamus cyanopterus Dusky Woodswallow 42 6 0 0 0 Campephagidae Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo- novaehollandiae shrike 6 15 5 11 4 Lalage suerii White-winged triller 0 0 0 1 0 Caprimulgidae Eurostopodus argus Spotted Nightjar 0 0 0 2 0 Casuariidae Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu 5 1 0 4 0 Cinclosomatidae Cinclosoma castanotus Chestnut Quail-thrush 5 3 0 0 0 Climacteridae Climacteris rufa Rufous Treecreeper 0 5 0 0 1 Columbidae Phaps chalcoptera Common Bronzewing 2 6 1 8 1 Phaps elegans Brush Bronzewing 1 3 0 8 0

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Total Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Known No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals Corvidae Corvus coronoides Australian Raven 11 8 1 15 6 perplexus Cracticidae Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird 0 2 0 1 0 Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie 5 1 0 3 2 Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird 14 13 2 12 0 torquatus Strepera versicolor Grey Currawong 14 12 0 7 0 plumbea Cuculidae Cacomantis flabelliformis Fan-tailed Cuckoo 2 3 0 0 1 Chrysococcyx lucidus Shining Bronze Cuckoo 0 1 0 0 0 Dicruridae Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark 1 0 0 0 0 Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail 1 12 1 5 3 leucophrys Rhipidura fuliginosa Grey Fantail 1 0 0 0 0 Falconidae Falco berigora berigora Brown Falcon 3 3 0 0 1 Falco cenchroides Australian Kestrel 0 0 0 3 0 cenchroides Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 0 1 0 0 2 macropus# Hirundinidae Hirundo nigricans Tree Martin 2 65 0 0 51 Maluridae Blue-breasted Fairy- Malurus pulcherrimus 42 10 0 103 4 wren Stipiturus malachurus Southern Emu-wren 0 0 0 20 0 westernensis Megapodidae Leipa ocellata# Mallee Fowl 1 0 0 0 1 Meliphagidae Spiny-cheeked Acanthagenys rufogularis 16 9 0 9 0 Honeyeater Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird 214 358 12 46 39 Purple-gaped Lichenostomus cratitius 10 8 5 16 7 Honeyeater Lichenostomus leucotis White-eared Honeyeater 155 123 15 80 24 novaenorciae Yellow-plumed Lichenostomus ornatus 5 77 1 0 19 Honeyeater Grey-fronted Lichenostomus plumulus 0 1 0 0 0 Honeyeater Lichenostomus virescens Singing Honeyeater 5 112 0 13 0 Lichmera indistincta Brown Honeyeater 32 41 20 56 22 indistincta Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner 0 3 0 0 0

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Total Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Known No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals Brown-headed Melithreptus brevirostris 8 87 11 0 0 Honeyeater White-fronted Phylidonyris albifrons 3 19 1 7 3 Honeyeater White-cheeked Phylidonyris nigra gouldii 10 0 1 16 6 Honeyeater Phylidonyris New Holland 3 0 0 0 16 novaehollandiae Honeyeater Tawny-crowned Phylidonyris melanops 54 41 2 133 9 Honeyeater Meropidae Merops ornatus# Rainbow Bee-eater 0 0 0 0 2 Motiacillidae Anthus australis Australian Pipit 0 0 0 1 0 Neositidae Daphoenositta chrysoptera Varied Sittella 0 7 0 0 2 Pachycephalidae Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush 14 19 1 3 5 Oreoica gutturalis# Crested Bellbird 12 8 1 7 0 Pachycephala pectoralis Golden Whistler 1 9 1 3 7 fuliginosa Pardalotidae Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote 44 16 2 10 4 Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote 62 81 5 28 42 Petroicidae Drymodes brunneopygia Southern Scrub-robin 7 7 2 25 9 Eopsaltria australis Western Yellow Robin 1 10 2 5 1 griseogularis Microeca fascinans Jacky Winter 1 10 0 0 0 assimilis Petroica cucullata Hooded Robin 0 0 0 4 0 Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin 0 1 0 0 0 Podargidae Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth 0 2 0 0 2 Pomatostomidae Pomatostomus White-browed Babbler 0 13 4 6 0 superciliosus# Psittacidae Cacatua roseicapilla Galah 0 1 0 1 2 assimilis Calyptorhynchus Carnaby's Cockatoo 20 0 0 13 1 latirostris# Glossopsitta Purple-crowned Lorikeet 100 156 7 286 62 porphyrocephala Neophema elegans Elegant Parrot 10 3 0 1 0 Platycercus icterotis Western Rosella 6 9 0 1 1 icterotis# Platycercus zonarius Australian Ringneck 18 27 0 0 13

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Total Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath Known No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of Species name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals Polytelis anthopeplus Regent Parrot 1 18 0 1 4 anthopeplus Turnicidae Turnix velox Little Button-quail 0 0 0 2 0 Zosteropidae Zosterops lateralis Silvereye 0 4 0 0 20 Number of individuals 1240 1807 160 1216 472 Number of species 55 60 30 50 43 # denotes conservation significant species

5.4.3 Mammals

A total of 24 mammal species were recorded in the Forrestania region, comprising of 19 native species (including two conservation significant species – Dasyurus geoffroii and Macropus irma) and five introduced species (Appendix S3).

The most commonly recorded mammal species were Sminthopsis granulipes (White-tailed Dunnart) and Cercartetus concinnus (Western Pygmy Possum) which were recorded on 134 and 89 times respectively.Where possible, species data collected by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) was analysed by Coffey Environments according to habitat types (Table 18). This analysis highlighted that mammalian species diversity between each habitat type was consistent between habitats, with the Shrubland habitat type recording the least diversity. This could be representative of survey effort in this habitat type, or a reflection that species’ specific requirements are not contained in this habitat type.

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Table 18 Mammals by Habitat Type

Total

Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath No. Known Known Habitats Recorded Common No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of In Species name Name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals

Tachyglossidae Tachyglossus Echidna 1 3 0 2 0 3 aculeatus Dasyuridae Dasyurus geoffroii# Western Quoll 0 0 4 0 0 1 Sminthopsis Fat-tailed 1 0 0 0 0 1 crassicaudata Dunnart Gilbert’s Sminthopsis gilberti 2 2 0 1 0 3 Dunnart Sminthopsis White-tailed 11 4 5 114 0 4 granulipes Dunnart Sminthopsis Grey-bellied 1 0 0 0 0 1 griseoventer Dunnart Burramyidae Cercartetus Western Pygmy 34 23 5 25 0 4 concinnus Possum Tarsipedidae 0 0 0 0 0 Tarsipes rostratus Honey Possum 0 0 0 12 0 1 Macropodidae 0 0 0 0 0 Macropus Western Grey 1 1 2 16 2 4 fuliginosus Kangaroo Western Brush Macropus irma # 2 1 0 5 4 3 Wallaby Macropus robustus Euro 0 1 0 0 1 1 Vespertilionidae Chalinolobus Gould’s Wattled 0 3 0 0 10 1 gouldii Bat Chocolate Chalinolobus morio 0 2 0 0 2 1 Wattled Bat Vespadelus Southern 0 3 0 0 6 1 regulus Forest Bat Nyctophilus Lesser Long- 0 0 0 0 1 0 geoffroyi eared Bat Molossidae White striped Tadarida australis 0 3 0 1 2 2 Freetail Bat Mormopterus Inland Freetail 0 2 0 0 2 1 planiceps Bat Muridae Mus musculus* House Mouse 11 4 15 29 0 4 Mitchell’s Notomys mitchelli 6 1 30 22 0 4 Hopping Mouse Pseudomys Ash-grey 0 0 0 4 0 1 albocinereus Mouse Canidae Canis lupis* Dog 5 0 1 4 0 3

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Total

Habitat Not Family Mallee Woodland Shrubland Heath No. Known Known Habitats Recorded Common No. of No. of No. of No. of No. of In Species name Name individuals individuals individuals individuals individuals

Vulpes vulpes* Red Fox 3 0 0 0 0 1 Felidae Felis catus* House Cat 3 0 0 2 0 2 Leporidae Oryctolagus European 0 3 5 2 0 3 cuniculus* Rabbit No. of 81 56 67 239 30 individuals No. of species 13 15 8 14 9 # denotes conservation significant

species * denotes introduced species

5.4.3.1 Introduced Species

Five introduced fauna species were recorded during the surveys in the Forrestania region. These species were:

• House mice (Mus musculus);

• House cat (Felis catus);

• European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus);

• Wild dogs (Canis lupus); and

• Foxes (Vulpes vulpes).

5.4.4 Short-Range Endemics

Taxonomic groups of invertebrates with naturally small distributions are described as short-range endemics and are in part characterised by poor dispersal capabilities, confinement to disjunct habitats and low fecundity (Harvey, 2002, Ponder and Colgan, 2002).

Examples of taxonomic groups that show high levels of short-range endemism in this respect include mygalomorph spiders, millipedes, pseudoscorpions and freshwater and terrestrial molluscs (Biota, 2007b).

5.4.4.1 Forrestania Fauna Survey (Biota, 2006a)

Two species of mygalomorph spiders were recorded from the Forrestania survey area. Seven unidentified Aname sp. (Nemesiidae) were captured, and one unidentified specimen of the Idiopidae family was recorded. These were recorded in Woodland and Heath habitats.

Several other spiders were collected during the survey, both from pit traps and opportunistic searches. These include representatives of the following families: Clubonidae, Gnaphosidae, Lamponidae,

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Lycosidae, Memetidae, Miturgidae, Pisauridae, Prodidomidae, Salticidae, Sparassidae, Theridiidae, Thomisidae, Trochanteriidae, Zodariidae and Zoridae.

Two species of scorpion were collected from the study area in all habitats (Mallee, Woodland, Heath and Shrubland). Three individuals of the genus Lychas were collected during the survey and 10 individuals of the genus Urodacus were also recorded.

Thorough hand searches were conducted for pseudoscorpions and millipedes, however no records of either taxa were noted.

5.4.4.2 Forrestania Water Disposal Pipeline Fauna Survey (Biota, 2006b)

Three species of Mygalomorph spider were recorded from the pipeline project area (Table 19). These represent the Idiopidae and Barychelidae families. These were recorded in the Woodland habitat. However, some were recorded opportunistically. It is not known which habitats these were identified within.

Table 19 Mygalomorph Spiders recorded in the Project Area

Species Total

Idiopidae sp. A 3

Idiopidae sp. B 4

Barychelidae sp. A 1

5.4.4.3 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a)

Three species of mygalomorph spiders were recorded from the Diggers South study area, each representing a distinct family. These comprised 17 individuals of the genus Aname (family Nemesiidae), three individuals of the genus Gaius (family Idiopidae) and five individuals of the genus Missulena (family Actinopodidae) (see Table 20). These were recorded in Woodland, Mallee and Heath habitats in the survey area. Table 20 Mygalomorph Spiders recorded at Diggers South study area.

Species Total

Aname sp B 17

Gaius sp. 3

Missulena sp. 5

A single species of pseudoscorpion (family Chernetidae) was recorded at the Diggers South study area. Four individuals were recorded in Mallee habitat and one specimen recorded in Woodland habitat.

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5.4.4.4 Diggers South Fauna Survey – Phase 1 (Biota, 2007a)

Seven species of mygalomorph spider were recorded from the Forrestania study area (Table 21). These represent the Idiopidae, Barychelidae and Nemesiidae families. These were recorded in Mallee, Woodland and Heath habitats in the survey area.

Table 21 Mygalomorph spiders recorded at the Flying Fox study area during Survey Phase III (P3) and Phase IV (P4)

Species Total

Idiopidae sp. A 1

Idiopidae sp. B 1

Idiopidae sp. C 1

Barychelidae sp. A 1

Barychelidae sp. B 2

Aname sp. A (Nemesiidae) 4

Aname sp. B (Nemesiidae) 1

A single species pseudoscorpion represented by eleven specimens (family Chernetidae; genus Haplochernes) was recorded in Woodland Habitat under the bark of Salmon Gums (Eucalyptus salmonophloia).

5.4.4.5 Mygalomorph Investigation (Biota 2008a and 2008b)

A study into the significance of Mygalomorph spiders across the Forrestania region by Biota in conjunction with the University of Western Australia has been commenced. The following summarises information contained in Biota 2008a and 2008b.

Search areas, identified tentatively from aerial photography and maps before being ground-truthed, were concentrated along drainage lines (often represented by small gullies) and lake margins. Sites from which spiders had previously been collected were also searched for further specimens. Search areas centered on developing or existing mine areas of Flying Fox, Spotted Quoll, Cosmic Boy, Diggers Rocks, and remnant woodland at Mossco’s Farm, 30km to the south was also searched.

Spiders were identified in the field by their characteristic burrow doors, which may be constructed of mud or leaf litter bound with silk, and often have a small spoil heap to the rear of the hinge. Once individual burrows had been located, their position was recorded using a hand-held GPS unit, and marked with flagging tape for later excavation.

Animals were recovered by digging a hole adjacent to and beyond the estimated depth of the burrow without disturbing the burrow wall. The burrow wall could then be carefully pulled outwards piece by piece until the spider was exposed. Animals were collected in urine jars, which were stored in a cool esky until processing at which stage they were given a unique identifying code.

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Prior to processing, animals were placed in a freezer for approximately 10 minutes to sedate them. They were then placed in cold (~ 4°C) 100% ethanol to narcotise them before the two rear legs on the animals left side were removed. The two legs were stored in 100% ethanol for later genetic studies, whilst the body was moved to 70% ethanol for morphological studies.

A total of 47 sites were searched for spiders during field trips in January and May 2008, with mygalomorphs being collected from 38 of these sites. Animals were recovered from all except one of the 34 occupied sites (only one spider, which was not recovered, being found at this site).

Initial observations based on the structure of burrow doors indicated that there may be up to five separate morphospecies, or spider ‘types’, represented amongst the animals collected. One of these, Missulena (probably M. occatoria), is not an Idiopid mygalomorph and is of no interest as a potential short-range endemic, as the genus is characterised by aerial dispersal of juveniles. Selected individuals from the remaining four “types” were subsequently subjected to molecular studies to facilitate identification and to provide a framework for morphological analysis.

Genetic analyses of tissues taken from individual spiders have to date largely been completed for the search sites sampled in January. Genetic analyses indicate that the estimate of four types of Idiopids derived from observations of burrow door structure could perhaps be reduced to three types. Irrespective of this, the above results indicate that the three putative genetic types of Idiopid trapdoor spider collected from the vicinity of WSA’s Forrestania mining operations are not restricted to any one specific site within the study area.

Spiders of genetic ‘Type A’ were found at two sites that are separated by approximately seven kilometres. Similarly, ‘Type B’ spiders were collected from seven sites spanning the entire survey area. The final group (‘Type C’), was the most restricted group sampled, comprising spiders collected only from the vicinity of Lake Cronin to the north of the survey area.

Further genetic investigations utilising material collected in May 2008, and morphological analyses across the entire sample, should shed further light on the taxonomic relationships amongst the mygalomorphs collected in the vicinity of WSA’s Forrestania mining operations. However, to date there is little evidence to suggest that the conservation value of individual putative mygalomorph taxa collected in the survey area, including the Spotted Quoll project area is likely to be adversely affected by ongoing, existing or proposed mining activities.

5.5 Fauna Habitats at Spotted Quoll

Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008) identified three main fauna habitat types in the Spotted Quoll project area. These consisted of:

• Sparse mature Eucalypt woodland with scattered shrubs to about 2.5m with a limited understorey of small shrubs and leaf litter;

• Small Eucalypts and shrubs of varying densities to about 3m over a relatively dense understorey of shrubs and a few ground plants with some areas containing higher quantities of leaf litter and bark; and

• Low shrubs (0.75m – 1.5m) with little ground leaf litter.

It should be noted that the complexity of the habitats present at Spotted Quoll is more diverse than the three habitats shown due to the fire history of the site (Terrestrial Ecosystems, 2008). In many areas,

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there has been substantial Eucalypt re-growth resulting in a very high density of stems (Terrestrial Ecosystems, 2008).

The habitats present in the Spotted Quoll project area are similar to that present in the Forrestania region, and as a consequence the fauna and fauna assemblages in the Spotted Quoll project area are likely to be very similar to that found in adjacent areas (Terrestrial Ecosystems, 2008). This point is also reflected in the DEC’s advice to WSA with respect to the intensity of fauna surveying commissioned by WSA in the Forrestania region, and the request to undertake targeted searches in the Spotted Quoll project area for conservation significant species (Appendix M).

The fauna assessments completed by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a, 2007b and 2008) identified four broad habitat types (including slight variations of some) across the wider Forrestania region. These included:

• Eucalypt woodlands with or without mallee Eucalypts over Melaleuca spp or Acacia spp.

• Eucalyptus Mallee over Melaleuca spp. with or without Lepidosperma spp. and with or without occasional Eucalyptus salmonophloia.

• Heath (including Tall Heath and Burnt Heath) consisting of species rich heath (dominant and common species vary, but include Melaleuca spp., Casuarina spp., Acacia spp., Hakea spp. Kunzea spp., Banksia spp.) over sedge with occasional scattered mallee Eucalypt.

• Shrublands consisting of Melaleuca spp. and open overstorey of Eucalypts with very little understorey.

5.6 Faunal Assemblage at Spotted Quoll

The habitats at Spotted Quoll as described by Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008) are consistent with those described by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b). Therefore it is highly likely that the faunal assemblage present at the Spotted Quoll site is similar to that observed in the wider Forrestania region.

5.7 Conservation Significant Fauna

5.7.1 Legislative and Administrative Levels of Fauna Protection

Native fauna species which are rare, threatened with extinction or have high conservation value are specifically protected by law under the Western Australian Wildlife Conservation Act 1950-1979 and the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act 1999).

5.7.1.1 Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 – 1979 Classification of rare and endangered fauna under the Wildlife Conservation (Specially Protected Fauna) Notice 2006 recognises four distinct schedules of taxa: • Schedule 1 taxa are fauna which are rare or likely to become extinct and are declared to be fauna in need of special protection;

• Schedule 2 taxa are fauna which are presumed to be extinct and are declared to be fauna in need of special protection;

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• Schedule 3 taxa are birds which are subject to an agreement between the governments of Australia, Japan and China relating to the protection of migratory birds and birds in danger of extinction which are declared to be fauna in need of special protection; and

• Schedule 4 taxa are fauna that are in need of special protection, otherwise than for the reasons mentioned in paragraphs (1), (2) and (3).

In addition to the above classification, fauna are also recognised under five Priority levels:

Priority One Taxa with few, poorly known populations on threatened lands.

Taxa which are known from few specimens or sight records from one or a few localities on lands not managed for conservation. The taxon needs urgent survey and evaluation of conservation status before consideration can be given to declaration as threatened fauna.

Priority Two Taxa with few, poorly known populations on conservation lands, or taxa with several, poorly known populations not on conservation lands.

Taxa which are known from few specimens or sight records from one or a few localities on lands not under immediate threat of habitat destruction or degradation. The taxon needs urgent survey and evaluation of conservation status before consideration can be given to declaration as threatened fauna.

Priority Three Taxa with several, poorly known populations, some on conservation lands.

Taxa which are known from few specimens or sight records from several localities, some of which are on lands not under immediate threat of habitat destruction or degradation. The taxon needs urgent survey and evaluation of conservation status before consideration can be given to declaration as threatened fauna.

Priority Four Taxa in need of monitoring.

Taxa which are considered to have been adequately surveyed or for which sufficient knowledge is available and which are considered not currently threatened or in need of special protection, but could be if present circumstances change. These taxa are usually represented on conservation lands. Taxa which are declining significantly but are not yet threatened.

Priority Five Taxa in need of monitoring.

Taxa which are not considered threatened but are subject to a specific conservation program, the cessation of which would result in the species becoming threatened within five years.

5.7.1.2 EPBA Act 1999

Fauna species of national conservation significance are listed under the EPBC Act 1999, and may be classified as ‘Critically Endangered’, ‘Endangered’, ‘Vulnerable’ or ‘Conservation Dependent’ (consistent with IUCN categories (IUCN, 1996)).

Migratory wader species are also protected under the EPBC Act 1999. The national List of Migratory Species consists of those species listed under the following International Conventions:

• Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA);

• China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA);

• Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn Convention).

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5.7.2 Conservation Significant Fauna Species Recorded or Predicted to Occur

The fauna surveys conducted (including database searches e.g. DEWHA Protected Matters, WA Museum Faunabase etc) in the Forrestania Region have identified the potential for conservation significant fauna species to be present, or in some cases, recorded the presence of conservation significant species. Conservation significant vertebrate species potentially occurring in the general area are shown in Table 22. Table 22 Conservation Significant Fauna Species recorded in the the Forrestania Survey Area

WA Wildlife Conservation EPBC Act 1999 Species Comment Act 1950-1979 Status Status Species recorded in the Forrestania region Carnaby’s Black- and have been sighted adjacent to the Cockatoo Spotted Quoll project area in low densities Schedule 1 Endangered Calyptorhynchus during the fauna surveys. No signs of recent latirostris activity (breeding or feeding) have been recorded in the project area footprint. Species is unlikely to occur in the survey area and was not recorded during the fauna surveys. Red-tailed Phascogale If present it would probably be confined to the Schedule 1 Endangered Phascogale calura Eucalypt woodlands. This species generally prefers Eucalypt woodland where Allocasuarina huegeliana grows over shrub layer on rocky substrates. Species unlikely to occur in the survey area and was not recorded during the fauna surveys. Heath Mouse Schedule 1 Vulnerable Its current known distribution is located Pseudomys shortridgei further southwest of the project area. However, this species’ distribution is not well understood. Species recorded in the Forrestania region Chuditch, Western Quoll in low densities during the fauna surveys and Schedule 1 Vulnerable Dasyurus geoffroii are likely to occur in the Spotted Quoll project area. Species not recorded in the survey area. Numbat Schedule 1 Vulnerable Last record on the DEC Threatened Fauna Myrmecobius fasciatus database for the area was in 1961. Species recorded in the Forrestania region Malleefowl in low densities during the fauna surveys and Schedule 1 Vulnerable Leipoa ocellata are likely to occur in the Spotted Quoll project area. Western Rosella (inland Species recorded in the Forrestania region sub-species) in low densities during the fauna surveys and Schedule 1 - Platycerus icterotis are likely to occur in the Spotted Quoll project xanthogenys area. Species recorded in the Forrestania region in low densities during the fauna surveys and are likely to occur in the Spotted Quoll project Peregrine Falcon area. Schedule 4 – Falco peregrinus - The home range of this species is large and the species probably occurs periodically in all habitats through the study area at low densities.

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WA Wildlife Conservation EPBC Act 1999 Species Comment Act 1950-1979 Status Status Species not recorded during fauna surveys, but has been recorded in the region. This Carpet Python species is typically cryptic, and is probably Schedule 4 - Morelia spilota imbricate present in low densities in all habitats. This species is typically cryptic, and is probably present in low densities in all habitats. Species recorded in the Forrestania Region. Western Brush Wallaby Priority 4 - This species was recorded in woodland, Macropus irma mallee and heath habitats. Western Shrike-tit Priority 4 - Species potentially occurs in the Spotted Falcunculus frontatus Quoll project area, though not recorded leucogaster during fauna surveys conducted in the Forrestania region. This species is generally recorded in Eucalyptus woodland. Species potentially occurs in the Spotted Quoll project area, though not recorded during fauna surveys conducted in the Western Mouse Forrestania region. Priority 4 - Pseudomys occidentalis This species typically inhabits shrublands on loam soils and all occupied areas are characterized by an extremely dense shrub layer between 0.5m and 2.5m. Species recorded in the Forrestania region White-browed Babbler in woodland, heath and shrubland habitats. Pomatostomus Priority 4 - It inhabits mainly arid and semi-arid zones superciliosus ashbyi south of the tropic. It prefers edges of most types of thicket and scrub. Species potentially occurs in the Spotted Quoll project area, though not recorded during fauna surveys conducted in the Australian Bustard Forrestania region. Priority 4 - Ardeotis australis It typically prefers low shrublands and grasslands, and is attracted to burnt areas. If present, it would probably occur in heaths and open areas with sparse understorey. Crested Bellbrid Species recorded in the Forrestania region Priority 4 - Oreoica gutturalis in woodland, heath and shrubland habitats. Shy Groundwren Species recorded in the Forrestania region (western) Priority 4 - in mallee, woodland, shrubland and heath Hylacola cauta whitlocki habitats. Species recorded in the Forrestania region Rufous Fieldwren in heath habitat in low densities. Calamanthus Priority 4 - This species is generally recorded in campestris montanellus saltbush, Samphire and heaths Species opportunistically recorded in the Forrestania region. Two individuals were Rainbow Bee-eater - Migratory species recorded and is probably present in most *Merops ornatus habitats that provide suitable soil for nesting and a tall stratum of vegetation for perching. Species potentially occurs in the Spotted Quoll project area, though not recorded during fauna surveys conducted in the Fork-tailed Swift - Migratory species Forrestania region. Apus pacificus The occurrence of this species in the region is extremely patchy on a temporal and spatial scale.

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5.7.3 Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo

Carnaby’s Cockatoo is found in the south-west of Australia from Kalbarri through to Ravensthorpe. It has a preference for feeding on the seeds of Banksia, Dryandra, Hakea, Eucalyptus, Grevillea, Pinus and Allocasuarina spp. It is nomadic often moving toward the coast after breeding. It breeds in tree hollows that are 2.5 – 12m above the ground and have an entrance 23-30cm with a depth of 1-2.5m. Nesting mostly occurs in smooth-barked trees (e.g. Salmon Gum, Wandoo, Red Morrell). Loss of habitat, in particular feeding sites near breeding sites are considered to be a major threat to this species. Eggs are laid from July to October, with incubation lasting 29 days.

Based on previous fauna surveys by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a, 2007b, 2008c), Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris) has been recorded in the Forrestania region and therefore has the potential to be found at the Spotted Quoll site during the breeding season.

The Forrestania region is at the extremity of the species’ range and is a possible explanation for the low densities recorded during the fauna surveys by Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b). Over the course of the four surveys in the Forrestania region by Biota, a total of 34 birds were recorded.

Johnstone et. al. (2008) have undertaken an assessment of habitat values at the Spotted Quoll site for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. The survey was conducted on the 29 and 30 August 2008. This assessment has been supplemented with a reconnaissance visit to the Spotted Quoll project area Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008) in December 2008. The primary purpose of these assessments were to identify any breeding, feeding and roosting sites for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo in the Spotted Quoll project area.

Johnstone et. al. (2008) examined all significant trees (containing large hollows) with binoculars for signs of use by cockatoos e.g. wear around the hollow, chewing, scarring and scratch marks on trunks and branches. Trees with possible nest sites were scratched and raked with a pole to flush any sitting birds from hollows. Several hollows were climbed using extension ladders and checked for indication of cockatoo use e.g. feathers, egg fragments and wood chips (small cigar-shaped wood chips that are chewed from the sides of the hollow by the female). Johnstone et. al. (2008) also searched for any old and recent evidence of cockatoos feeding in the area and for evidence of roost sites (feathers and droppings etc.). All records were logged using GPS.

Johnstone et. al. (2008) identified some historical evidence of Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos using the site for foraging purposes along the proposed haul road. However, there was no recent evidence of use of the site by the species.

Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008) and Johnstone et. al. (2008) both note that the species is likely to infrequently use the site for foraging purposes during the breeding season. This claim is supported with observations by WSA environmental staff who have noted small flocks of Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos feeding in the region. Johnstone et. al. (2008) note that only small numbers of the species is likely to occur in the region during the breeding season (September to January), and that many of the birds observed are likely to be migrants returning to and from the Lake Cronin and Hatters Hill feeding areas.

Johnstone et. al. (2008) concludes that the fire in 1994 would have greatly reduced feeding and breeding habitat for this species, and therefore the proposed Spotted Quoll operation is unlikely to impact on the availability of breeding, feeding and roosting habitat for the Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. This in turn, is unlikely to lead to a decline in the local population.

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5.7.4 Western Rosella

There are two subspecies of the Western Rosella; the western coastal subspecies Platycercus icterotis icterotis which is relatively abundant, and by ‘mallee’ subspecies (P. i. zanthogenys) that inhabits the wheatbelt and as far east as Lake Cowan which is now relatively rare. It is mainly found in Eucalypt and Casuarina woodlands and shrubs, especially wandoo, flooded gums, salmon gum and tall mallees. Like most other rosellas, it breeds in hollows in large trees.

Biota (2006a, 2006b, 2007a and 2007b) recorded the Western Rosella (Platycercus icterotis) in low densities during the fauna surveys conducted in the Forrestania region in Woodland habitat. This species was not recorded at Spotted Quoll by Johnstone et. al. (2008) during the August 2008 survey. However due to the presence of Eucalypt Woodland habitat at the Spotted Quoll site it is likely that this species would be present in low numbers. Terrestrial Ecosystems (2008) noted that the presence of tree hollows in large (>10m) Eucalypts at Spotted Quoll could provide nesting sites for the species.

5.7.5 Chuditch

Formally known from over 70% of Australia, the Chuditch now has a patchy distribution throughout the Jarrah forest and mixed Karri/Marri/Jarrah forest of south-west WA. They den in hollow logs and burrows and have also been recorded in tree hollows and cavities. Their habitat is described by Strahan (2000) as sclerophyll forest or dried woodland and mallee shrub land.

Biota (2006a and 2007b) recorded the Chuditch (Dasyurus geoffroii) in low densities during the fauna surveys conducted in the Forrestania region in shrubland habitat.

The Department of Environment and Conservation’s handout (http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/component/option.com_docman/Itemid,1/gid,125/task,doc_download) records Chuditch as occupying a wide range of habitats from woodlands, dry sclerophyll forests, riparian vegetation, beaches and deserts. In the Lake Magenta Nature Reserve Chuditch show a preference for woodland and mallee habitat. Therefore the mallee and eucalypt woodland within the Spotted Quoll project area could support Chuditch.

5.7.6 Malleefowl

The Malleefowl is a relatively large, mostly sedentary species, nesting in the same general area year- after-year. Males display greater nest-site fidelity than females. Chicks are independent from hatching and disperse widely, moving up to 2km per day and do not appear to respond to habitat boundaries. Adult birds feed on seeds, flowers and fruit of shrubs and herbs, but they will also eat invertebrates and fungi. Their diet often reflects foods that are locally available and seasonal variations.

Malleefowl build large mounds of sand, gravel and vegetation, 3-5m wide and over 1m high in which they incubate their eggs. This occurs mostly between autumn and spring as a combined effort of the pair intending to use the mound. Once completed, the male then spends most of his time tending the mound, whereas the female spends most of her time foraging. Incubation temperature of the mound is influenced by microbial decomposition of the vegetation, particularly in the early stages and solar radiation for the entire period.

The habitat requirements of Malleefowl are generally not well understood. A sandy substrate and abundance of leaf litter are clear requirements for the construction of the birds' incubator-nests. Densities of the birds are generally highest in areas of higher rainfall and on more fertile soils and

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where shrub diversity is greatest. The Malleefowl is now primarily found in semi-arid and arid shrublands and low woodlands dominated by mallee, but they also occur in woodlands dominated by eucalypts such as Wandoo (E. wandoo), marri (E. calophylla) and mallet (E. astringens), and in some shrublands dominated by acacia in WA.

A targeted search by Biota of the Forrestania region for Malleefowl found two nesting mounds. However, neither of these was recorded in the Spotted Quoll project area.

There were patches of vegetation in the Forrestania project area that would be suitable (i.e. dense vegetation to 1.5-2.0m, over leaf litter, bark and sticks) for foraging and mound building activity (Terrestrial Ecosystems, 2008). It is therefore possible that tenements ML77/583 and ML77/545 contain active Malleefowl mounds. However, it is unlikely that the proposed mine construction would significantly impact the availability of breeding and feeding habitat for Malleefowl at Forrestania. The proposed mine is therefore unlikely to adversely affect the conservation status of the species either locally or regionally.

5.7.7 Subterranean Fauna

5.7.7.1 Stygofauna

Rockwater Pty Ltd was commissioned by WSA to conduct a stygofauna survey in the vicinity of the proposed pit for the purpose of identifying whether stygofauna are present in the aquifer and to identify any conservation significant species within aquifers likely to be impacted by implementation of WSA’s proposal. A copy of the report is provided in Appendix Q.

Sixteen bores have been installed at the Spotted Quoll site (refer to Figure 16). Of the 16 bores, 15 were able to be sampled by Rockwater for stygofauna, with the remaining bore damaged.

Sampling for Stygofauna was undertaken in November 2008. All bores sampled in November were at least 3 months old. To maintain consistency with the EPA guidelines (EPA, 2003 and EPA, 2007) a second sampling trip is planned (February 2009), to sample all bores when they are at least 6 months old.

Sampling was carried out using two techniques at each bore - by lowering and withdrawing sampling nets, six times in each bore and by pumping water from the bore through a sampling net. The exceptions being WWMB14(s) which was only pumped due to the casing being damaged at the time of sampling and bores WWMB7(s) and WWMB13(s) which were not pumped as the water level was deeper than the capacity of any available sampling pumps. Sorting and identification of individual specimens was undertaken by Bennelongia Environmental Consultants. The results of this analysis are presented in Table 23.

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Table 23 Stygofauna Analysis Results

Bore Date ID Common Name No. Comments

WBD98 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates WMB10 6/11/2008 Acarina Mite 1 Terrestrial WWRC13 6/11/2008 Formicidae Ant 2 Terrestrial Formicidae Ant 1 Terrestrial WWRC15 6/11/2008 Tysanoptera Thrip 1 Terrestrial Psocoptera Booklice 1 Terrestrial WWRC17 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates 0 WWMB4 6/11/2008 Collembolla Collembolla 2 Terrestrial WWMB5 6/11/2008 Collembolla Collembolla 1 Terrestrial Collembolla Collembolla 1 Terrestrial WWMB6 6/11/2008 Formicidae Ant 1 Terrestrial Campoderidae Dipluran 1 May be troglofauna Formicidae Ant 4 Terrestrial WWMB7 6/11/2008 Staphyliinidae Beetle 1 Terrestrial Isoptera Termite 1 Terrestrial WWMB8 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates 0 WWMB9 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates 0 Collembolla Collembolla 1 Terrestrial WWMB11 6/11/2008 Araneomorpha Spider 1 Terrestrial WWMB12 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates 0 WWMB15 6/11/2008 No Invertebrates 0

No styogfauna were identified by Bennelongia. The saline to hypersaline conditions in all the bores sampled suggest that the aquifer conditions may be unsuitable for stygofauna habitat, as stygofauna have generally only been recorded in saline groundwater up to around 40,000mg/L TDS (Rockwater, 2008c). The TDS at the Spotted Quoll site varies from 62,000mg/L to 140,000mg/L (Rockwater, 2008b).

The species in Table 23 above identified as a possible troglofauna is addressed in the following section.

5.7.7.2 Troglofauna

A troglofauna risk assessment has been completed by Keith Lindbeck and Associates (2008b). The risk assessment was based on an assessment of diamond drill core taken from the site as well as from information provided by Rockwater Pty Ltd (Rockwater).

Troglofauna are known to reside in the vadose layer immediate above the watertable in vuggy materials (up to 3 m above the watertable) or those of karstic nature (Lindbeck, 2008b).

The watertable at the Spotted Quoll project site has been recorded at 30 m below ground surface.

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Keith Lindbeck and Associates (2008b) examined representative drill cores from the Spotted Quoll project area. The drill cores encomappassed 64 holes distributed across the site with depths ranging from the surface to 200+ m below ground surface.

The overburden materials found at Spotted Quoll and the surrounding area consist mainly of saprolite clays formed from weathering of mafic/ultramafic (e.g. basalt and serpentinite) and to a lesser extent felsic (e.g. granite) type rocks.

Rockwater have noted that the overburden material from the surface to about 40m depth (i.e. below the water table) is saprolitic clay which is unstable when wet and which needs to be cased off to prevent ground collapse.

Sampling for stygofauna recorded one ant, one springtail and one bristle-tail belonging to the family Campodeidae. Most species of the Campodeidae family are surface soil animals, although some are known from subterranean habitats in the Pilbara and Christmas Island (Bennelongia, 2008). Based on observations of geology at the Spotted Quoll site, i.e. that the strata from 0 to 21m is clay, and granite from 21m to 47m, Bennelongia (2008) concluded that the bristle-tail collected is highly unlikely to be trglofaunal. It is most likely that this animal is more likely to be found in the top one m or so of soil and that it has found its way into the bore and is supported by the identification of the any and springtail which are both surface dwelling animals (Bennelongia, 2008).

No troglofauna have been identified at the Spotted Quoll site by Bennelongia, and therefore it is considered unlikely that troglofauna species would be adversely impacted by the proposed Spotted Quoll mining operation.

The results of the troglofauna risk assessment were forwarded by WSA to the DEC for consideration in September 2008. The DEC has reviewed the risk assessment and has indicated to WSA and the EPA that it has “no further comments” and that “it is satisfied with the risk assessment process and outcomes as presented by WSA (Appendix T).

5.8 Social Environment

5.8.1 Land Use

The land in the Project are is unallocated Crown Land (uCL) and categorised as Minimal Use (1996/97 Land Use of Australia Summary Version 2) by the Commonwealth of Australia following a National Land and Water Resources Audit.

5.8.2 Aboriginal Heritage

WSA engaged consultants Gleason and Associates to undertake the following activities:

• Consult with representatives of the local indigenous community;

• Review the history of native title claims in the vicinity of the Project Area and previous heritage reports relevant to the area; and

• Undertake heritage surveys of the Project Area.

A summary of the activities conducted and findings are detailed below. A full copy of the report is found in Appendix U.

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A search of the Department of Indigenous Affairs Heritage Register in December 2008 revealed that there are no recorded or registered heritage sites within the Spotted Quoll Project Area.

The search revealed that there are seven reports of previous heritage surveys relevant to the region of the Project Area, but only three of these are relevant to the immediate vicinity of the Project Area. An assessment of the three reports found that portions of the Project Area were ethnographically assessed by appropriate indigenous people and archaeologically surveyed in 1989, 1991 and 1992 (Gleason and Associates, 2008). During these previous surveys, no sites of ethnographic or archaeological significance were identified within the Project Area or in the immediate vicinity of the Project Area. These studies also concluded that there are negligible amounts of aboriginal artifacts in the area; that the area would have only been occupied intermittently due to a lack of fresh water and reliable and accessible tucker sources in the area; and dense vegetation would have prevented ready movement through the area.

A registered Native Title (NT) claim was made in 2008 by the Ballardong People (WAD 6181/98) over land in the Forrestania area. The eastern margin of the Ballardong NT claim occurs over the Project Area. No other NT claim affects the Project Area. Gleason and Associates contacted Mr Reg Yarran (listed as an ‘Applicant’ on the National Native Title Tribunal’s Ballardong People NT claim ‘Registration test decision’ dated 3 July 2008) and asked if he would participate in consultations and surveys of the Project Area, to which he agreed.

Mr Graeme Pellew was also contacted by Gleason and Associates. Mr Pellew had been in contact with representatives of WSA previously and has interest in the Spotted Quoll Project Area. Mr Pellew’s group (Graeme Pellew Group) claims they are the owners or custodians of traditional indigenous knowledge that may be relevant to land within the Spotted Quoll Project Area.

Mr Yarran and Mr Pellew nominated a total of eight representatives (four from each group) who said they have authority under indigenous tradition to participate and represent their respective groups in consultations and field surveys over the Project Area.

Consultations and field surveys were conducted on the 5th and 6th December 2008 with representatives of the Ballardong NT claimants, and on the 15th and 16th December 2008 with representatives of the Graeme Pellew Group.

Gleason and Associates also conducted archaeological field inspections of the Project Area on the 6th and 16th December 2008, during which no archaeological material was identified.

The consultation and field surveys conducted by Gleason and Associates with representatives of the Ballardong NT claimants and the Graeme Pellew Group satisfy reasonable indigenous expectations about contemporary consultations for new developments. No sites of ethnographic significance to the Ballardong Native Title Claimants or the Graeme Pellew Group occur within the Project Area.

5.8.3 European Heritage

There are no European heritage sites of significance on the proposed project tenements.

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6 ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT

This section of the report details an assessment of the potential risks associated with the project. The methodology for assessing and managing environmental risk follows AS/NZS 4360:2004 for risk management. The approach is designed to specifically address potential ecological risks posed by resource development activities in sensitive environments; however it can be broadly applied to environmental management programs in general.

The main elements of the environmental risk assessment process used for the project involve:

• Identification of the key aspects of the project (including those relating to development, operation and closure);

• Identification of the potential sources of risk, risk events and potential impacts for each of these environmental aspects

• An estimation of the likelihood of each risk event occurring, the potential consequences if it did occur and subsequent determination of an inherent risk rating for each risk event.

• An assessment of the acceptability of the risk associated with each of the events or impacts.

6.1 Key Aspects of the Project

The key aspects of the project include those that are planned and unplanned and are listed below: • Vegetation clearance (authorised and unauthorised) • Construction (roads, parking hardstands areas, buildings, powerlines and pipelines) • Blasting • Overburden and ore extraction • Pit dewatering • Waste rock transport and deposition • Waste rock storage • Vehicle movement (including ore transportation) • Dangerous goods storage and handling • General waste management • Artificial lighting • Hypersaline water storage and transport (via pipeline) • Electricity use • Rehabilitation

6.2 Sources of Risk and Potential Impacts

The sources of risk from activities on the Spotted Quoll Project site that may impact on the environment are detailed below.

6.2.1 Vegetation Clearance (Authorised and Unauthorised)

Vegetation clearing can result in permanent changes to the topography and vegetation of the area. There is potential for unauthorised vegetation clearing to have a direct impact on significant flora or significant floristic communities.

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The loss of habitat will impact on fauna species living in the area. Most of the terrestrial species will be lost during the clearing process. Most birds will move to adjacent areas once clearing commences. This displacement alters the available habitat and will increase competition for resources in adjacent areas until a new balance develops.

Habitat reduction due to clearing can result in starvation of Malleefowl through a reduction in invertebrates, seeds, flowers and fruits. Malleefowl may also potentially be affected by unauthorised clearing through direct impacts on nesting mounds.

6.2.2 Fire Ignition

Fire ignition and subsequent spread may present a significant threat to the long term survival of Eucalyptus steedmanii and can impact on the biodiversity of floristic communities. Fire can cause large fluctuations in population size, age of plants and geographical distribution of re-seeder species.

The potential significant impacts resulting from fires on the environmental values of the Spotted Quoll mine site area have been identified as listed below:

• Frequent high intensity fires that:

- threaten the local DRF with degradation and extinction; and

- reduce or significantly alter fauna habitat;

• High intensity, fast moving fires that destroy vegetation on a massive front and which kill fauna that cannot escape the fire front in time.

Mining activity and the availability of rapid management response to fires may result in a reduction in the area burnt and the fire intensity for a given fire event either natural or mine related.

6.2.3 Weed Infestation

Environmental weeds have potential to establish, reproduce and disperse and have a serious impact on natural systems and nature conservation values. Weeds can displace native plants by competing for resources (water, nutrients, light, etc.), and may alter fuel and fire dynamics. The introduction and/or spread of weeds as a result of human activities may result in the decline of significant flora and/or floristic communities. In addition, weeds can also have a significant adverse impact on fauna habitats.

An environmental weed species that is highly invasive will have a high rating for its potential to impact on the environment. Species with a fast rate of spread will have a more extensive final distribution. Early action to remove these plants is highly effective in preventing serious weed problems.

No significant weed invasion has been observed to date in the project area.

6.2.4 Dust

It is possible that cumulative settled dust on plant surfaces may reduce that plant’s ability to photosynthesise, reproduce or regulate water. Any reduction of plant functions by dust may result in a decline in plant health, and the population. Dust is likely to be a hazard close to the mine (e.g. less than 1000m) while away from the mine dispersion reduces this hazard for given wind speed and direction.

To a lesser extent than plants, fauna may also be forced to move to adjacent habitats due to avoid dust.

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6.2.5 Feral Animals

An increase in human activity is often associated with an increase in the abundance of feral species such as the house mouse (Mus musculus), feral cats (Felis catus) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). This may be due to the decline in habitat health, increased road kills or poor waste disposal practices.

The house mouse, cat and fox were recorded in fauna surveys. Fox (and feral dog) predation is one of the major threats to Malleefowl. Cats and raptors, which mostly prey on chicks, are considered another important threat.

Foxes prey on eggs, chicks and adult birds and are probably the most significant threat after large scale vegetation clearing or burning.

6.2.6 Acid Generation

Waste rock that has the potential to liberate sulphuric acid upon oxidation may result in drainage that can significantly alter the soil, surface water and groundwater quality.

6.2.7 Lights

Lighting may change the behaviour of nocturnal and other fauna. Insects and other fauna may be attracted to the light sources, causing population numbers to decrease in other areas.

6.2.8 Noise and Vibrations

Fauna, particularly Chuditch and Malleefowl, may move to adjacent habitats as a result of noise and vibrations.

6.2.9 Changes to Surface Hydrology

Mine activities may affect the surface hydrology, which is characterised by ephemeral flows to which the plants have adapted. The activity may change the quantity or quality of water available to the populations of significant flora or significant floristic communities and fauna.

6.2.10 Changes to Groundwater Hydrology

Groundwater levels and water quality in the project area do not support phreatophytic vegetation. Subterranean fauna populations may also be adversely impacted by loss of habitat and direct loss if individual subterranean fauna.

6.2.11 Erosion and Sedimentation

Disturbance of soil and vegetation has the potential to erode in periods of wet weather if appropriate management/mitigation actions are not implemented.

6.2.12 Saline Water/Fuel Spills

The presence of large volumes of saline water and fuel on site increases the risk of a spill or leak occurring from storage vessels, pipelines or vehicles. Saline water can cause stem and foliage disfigurement, reduced growth, and plant death. Similarly fuel spills can cause reduced growth and plant death from local toxic action on roots.

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6.3 Risk Analysis

These identified risks will be assessed against the likelihood and consequence of the risk or event occurring (see Tables 24 and 25).

Table 24 Likelihood and Consequences Definitions

Likelihood Definitions Significance/Environmental Consequence

Almost • Is expected to occur in most Catastrophic • Widespread Certain circumstances • Persistent • Common repeating occurrence • Threatens biodiversity at regional level • Planned occurrence/action • Extensive impacts at species and community level that are regionally significant • Requires massive intervention over long period of time

Likely • Will probably occur in most Major • Extensive impacts at vegetation community circumstances and species level that are locally significant • Known to occur or “it has • Widespread happened” • Can be ameliorated over medium to long term • Requires intervention to ameliorate

Possible • Might occur at some time Moderate • Sub-lethal impacts to humans • Could occur or “I’ve heard of it • May cause significant deterioration of local happening” communities • Medium term • Requires some intervention to ameliorate

Unlikely • Could occur at some time Minor • Nuisance value to humans • Not likely to occur • May cause adverse effects in sensitive individuals • Insignificant impact at population level • Some mortality amongst sensitive biota at community level • Short term • Minor intervention to ameliorate

Rare • May occur only in exceptional Insignificant • No impacts on humans circumstances • Minor impact on biota • Practically impossible • No intervention required • Short term • Instantaneous impact on biota

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Table 25 Risk Assessment Matrix

Likelihood Consequence

Catastrophic Major Moderate Minor Insignificant

1 Almost Certain Extreme Extreme High Medium Medium

2 Likely Extreme Extreme High Medium Medium

3 Possible High High Medium Medium Low

4 Unlikely High High Medium Low Low

5 Rare High High Low Low Low

6.4 Risk Reduction

Proposed risk reduction measures are provided in Table 26.

Table 26 Risk Reduction Philosophy

Level of Risk Philosophy

Extreme Unacceptable, project should be redesigned or not proceed.

High Undesirable risks require that require re-engineering or management plan for the event to prevent its occurrence and to monitor changes that could place the risk in a higher level.

Medium Tolerable risks that can be management by routine procedures, training and monitoring as the project progresses.

Low No action required.

6.5 Summary of Risk Assessment

The environmental hazard and risk assessment for the Spotted Quoll Mining project are provided in Appendix V. A summary of High and Medium risks/events are provided in Table 27.

There were no risks/events identified as being ‘Extreme’, however two risks were identified as being ‘High’, these being:

• Vegetation Clearance (unauthorised); and

• Fire

A Fire Management Plan (Appendix W) and Declared Rare Flora Management Plan (Appendix X) have been prepared to address the issues listed above.

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Table 27 Prioritisation of Environmental Issues

Risk Potential Risk/Event Impact

High Vegetation Clearance (Unauthorised) DRF

High Fire DRF, Priority Species and Humans

Medium Dust from vegetation clearance, construction and Vegetation communities, Declared Rare decommissioning activities and earthworks, Flora, Priority Species and Humans overburden and ore excavation, transport and deposition, vehicle movement, and rehabilitation and revegetation activities

Medium Vegetation clearance (Authorised and Vegetation communities, vertebrate fauna Unauthorised) and short range endemics

Medium Greenhouse Gas Emissions from electricity and Air quality diesel use

Medium Changes to surface water hydrology from waste Vegetation communities, DRF, Priority rock storage Species, vertebrate fauna and short range endemics

Medium Road kill Fauna

Medium Introduction of weeds Vegetation communities, DRF and Priority Species

Medium Fuel spills (<100L) Soil quality, surface water quality, groundwater quality, vegetation

communities, DRF, Priority Species and humans

Medium Feral animals Fauna

Medium Spill of hypersaline water from Settling Pond Surface water quality, soil quality

Medium Inadequate revegetation regeneration Biodiversity

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7 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

WSA aims to conduct its business in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner that is compatible with the expectations of the government, the community and its shareholders.

7.1 Environmental Management System

7.1.1 General

WSA has a well developed environmental management system at its other operations in the Forrestania area. WSA proposes to develop an environmental management system at the operation that is consistent with the elements of the AS/NZS ISO14001:2004 Environmental Management Systems – Requirements with Guidance for Use.

This includes the following:

• Developing an Environmental Policy;

• Implementing a procedure to ensure all applicable legislative requirements are kept up to date;

• Ensuring staff have clearly defined roles and responsibilities;

• Ensuring that all staff and contractors are appropriately trained in the area of environmental management as it relates to their activities on site;

• Developing and maintaining environmental management plans, operating procedures and emergency response plans for application on site;

• Monitoring and auditing of environmental performance and the environmental management system; and

• Management review of the environmental management system.

7.1.2 Training and Education

WSA has developed safety management procedures for the proposed mining activities. The procedures detail key safety processes, which include but are not limited to the following:

• Inductions;

• Safety meetings;

• Permit systems;

• Job safety analysis; and

• Hazard and management control.

Copies of this EPS, EMPs and safety management plans and procedures will be available at the site office.

All staff and contractors will undergo environmental induction designed to inform them of their obligations and activity-specific environmental management procedures. Inductions will include the following:

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• Flora and fauna management (including vegetation clearance procedure, vehicle restriction areas and declared rare flora issues);

• Incident response and reporting;

• Fire prevention and response;

• Dust management;

• Aboriginal heritage;

• Weed and dieback management; and

• Waste rock management.

7.1.3 Environmental Roles and Responsibilities

The responsibilities for the various personnel involved in the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine are outlined in Table 28.

Table 28 Environmental Responsibilities

Personnel Responsibility

Carries ultimate accountability for environmental management and performance of Registered Manager site staff and contractors undertaking the operations. This includes: • Coordination of staff and contractor personnel to ensure the program runs smoothly and complies with all applicable policies, procedures, legislative requirements, EPS and management plans • Ensuring operational procedures are available to meet environmental commitments • Ensuring adequate resources are available to meet environmental commitments • Ensure that environmental management plans are implemented • Ensure that provision for rehabilitation is established and that progressive site rehabilitation is undertaken • Communicating and assigning legal and other environmental accountabilities and tasks to relevant staff • Ensuring all team leaders are aware of objectives and targets and the significant or potentially significant environmental impacts relevant to their work and • Ensuring non-conformance’s are assigned, actioned and monitored for the required remedial/corrective actions set. Responsible for communicating legal and other environmental responsibilities to Mine Manager their team members. The primary responsibilities include: • Assisting with the development, management, implementation and monitoring of environmental objectives, targets and action plans within their team • Regularly reviewing the processes under their control to look for improvement opportunities • Ensuring required actions are identified and solutions are effectively implemented • Ensuring environmental non-conformances are identified and reported • Ensuring actions taken to prevent re-occurrence of significant environmental incidents are documented and • Ensuring that records produced by their teams in relation to environmental management are legible, complete, correctly stored and maintained.

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Personnel Responsibility

Ensures all aspects of this EPS and associated EMPs are undertaken as required Environmental Officer including reporting requirements. This includes: • Conducting on-site environmental inductions and information sessions as required • Co-ordination of the vegetation clearance procedure and site rehabilitation activities • Co-ordination of environmental monitoring activities and compliance reporting • Ensuring appropriate communications are in place between WSA, DMP, DEC, FESA and other local stakeholders • Responsibly for daily feedback to the Registered Manager and Site Manager on technical data and environmental compliance • Provide specialist advice to WSA on environmental and approval matters, as required and • Ensuring management plans and environmental procedures are reviewed and updated regularly. Site Personnel carry accountability for undertaking their assigned tasks in an Site Personnel environmentally responsible manner. This includes: • Working in accordance with relevant work instructions/job procedures/standard operating procedures (SOPs) • Being aware of the environmental component of work instructions, job procedures or equivalent, under all operating conditions • Reporting improvements and suggestions to work instructions/job procedures to their Supervisor • Reporting non-compliance with work instructions, job procedures and standard operational procedures (SOPs); environmental incidents or emergencies to their Supervisor • Being aware of actual or potential environmental impacts of their activities and legal implications • Attending site tool box meetings which will incorporate environmental updates.

7.1.4 Monitoring and Auditing

WSA has established a monitoring and auditing program for its operations in the Forrestania area. This monitoring and auditing program will be expanded to include the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine.

Specific monitoring requirements are detailed in Table 29.

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Table 29 Proposed Monitoring and Auditing Activities

Aspect Proposed Monitoring Frequency Vegetation Reconciliation Audit Annual Clearance Groundwater Groundwater level monitoring Monthly Dewatering Groundwater Groundwater quality monitoring Contamination pH and EC Quarterly

Major analytes Annual Dust DRF Monitoring (using dust deposition Monthly gauges) Weeds Weed survey of project tenement Quarterly

Rehabilitation • Audit of available areas for rehabilitation Annual • Revegetation monitoring (once rehabilitation has commenced) • Visual inspection of landforms and safety bunds for signs of erosion (once rehabilitation has commenced)

Declared Rare • Delineate DRF populations and ascertain Prior to commencement of Flora and Priority population numbers construction activities Flora • Baseline monitoring of plant health, recruitment and reproductive status DRF populations. • Dust deposition monitoring in DRF populations

• DRF population census of all six known Prior to commencement of Eucalyptus steedmanii populations construction activities and every four years thereafter

• Visual DRF plant health observations Weekly during construction, operation and post closure

• Transect monitoring of populations for Monthly (Populations 1, 2 plant health, recruitment and and 3A/3B), quarterly reproductive status (Population 5) and biannually (Populations 4

and 6)

• Dust deposition monitoring in DRF Weekly during construction populations and operation

• Fuel-loading assessments Annually during construction, operation and post closure

• Plant condition and population size Biannually after rehabilitation for two years Surface Water Water quality monitoring (including drainage Quarterly from waste rock dump) Environmental Internal audit of management system Annual

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Aspect Proposed Monitoring Frequency Management Incidents Internal review Quarterly Feral Animals Wild dog, fox and cat monitoring and Annual control

7.1.5 Reporting

Auditing and monitoring will be undertaken and reported to regulatory authorities in accordance with regulatory requirements. Generally this involves the preparation of an annual compliance report and compliance audit of any ministerial conditions.

The WSA incident-reporting procedure is used for all field activities, conducted both by employees and contractors. Any environmental incident, near miss, or newly identified hazard is reported via the incident report form. The procedure identifies the process for incident investigation and preventative actions to minimise the existing or future environmental risk. The reporting system has an incident and action tracking process to facilitate timely and effective close out of any identified actions arising from the incident. All environmental incidents and spills will be reported to the Site Manager, who is responsible for signing off on the reports once appropriate preventative actions have been undertaken. All significant incidents will be reported to DEC and DMP within 24 hours of the event occurring as required. All incidents will be summarised in an annual compliance report that will be submitted to DEC and DMP.

7.2 Vegetation and Flora

7.2.1 Objectives

• To maintain the abundance, species diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora at species and ecosystem levels

• To maintain or improve the conservation status of flora species and communities consistent with the provisions of the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

• To protect other flora species of conservation significance

• To minimise disturbance to all native flora across the proposed project area

7.2.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

• EPA Guidance Statement No. 51 - Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia

7.2.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies

The potential impacts of the proposed mine on vegetation and flora have been identified as:

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• Direct loss of vegetation communities, DRF and Priority Species due to clearing;

• Impact of groundwater drawdown on vegetation communities as a result of mine dewatering;

• Introduction and spread of weeds;

• Direct impact on vegetation of dust;

• Direct impact of saline water on vegetation; and

• Direct impact of fire on vegetation communities, DRF and Priority Species.

7.2.3.1 Vegetation Clearing

Vegetation loss will occur during clearing of the site during the period of construction. The total maximum area to be disturbed is 140ha. Vegetation in the area to be disturbed is not considered regionally significant and is well represented in the region. No DRF are proposed to be cleared during the course of the project. One Stylidium sejunctum plant is listed by DEC as being located in the alignment of the proposed haul road. This species was not recorded by Botanica during its spring 2007 and autumn 2008 surveys in the area.

There is a minor risk of unauthorised clearing being undertaken, although this is unlikely given the small size of the operation and proposed environmental induction and awareness program. WSA has prepared a Declared Rare Flora Management Plan (Appendix X) that includes strategies for minimising the risk of damage to Eucalyptus steedmanii plants adjacent to their operations.

To minimise impacts to vegetation communities, DRF and Priority species from clearing activities, the following management/mitigation strategies will be implemented;

• Ensuring all staff and contractors attend compulsory environmental inductions to advise of environmental management responsibilities (including DRF management) and to raise the awareness about the vegetation and flora at the site and the habitat it provides for fauna. Permit to Clear procedures will also be communication at the induction.

• WSA personnel will provide information to construction and operations staff at toolbox meetings as well as regular (bi-monthly) presentations at site meetings. In particular photos and details about Eucalyptus steedmanii will be provided to assist in identification of the species in the field. Information about the known locations of the species, species management and incidents will be provided to staff and contractors.

• Create exclusion zones with fencing and signage around the DRF populations of Eucalyptus steedmanii and prohibit all staff and contractors from entering this area without permission of the WSA environmental staff.

• Supervision of vegetation clearing activities by the Environmental staff.

• Restriction on the construction of any access tracks adjacent to any of Eucalyptus steedmanii populations.

• Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb vegetation..

• Limiting clearing of vegetation to the minimum necessary to implement the project. This will be achieved using the Western Areas NL internal “Permit to Clear” procedures.

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• Areas to be cleared will be clearly marked prior to clearing commencing so that over-clearing will be avoided.

• The Eucalyptus Woodland wil be ground truthed along the proposed haul road to confirm or otherwise the presence of Stylidium sejunctum. If present, options will be asessed for re- transplantation of the species.

• Collect and correctly stockpile vegetative material and topsoil for later use at selected sites.

• Progressively rehabilitate completed areas as soon as practicable.

• Only use local native plant species for rehabilitation.

• Use only local provenance seed in rehabilitation activities.

7.2.3.2 Groundwater Dewatering

Vegetation can source water from a variety of sources including soil/rock pore moisture, rainfall or groundwater. Some vegetation (phreatophytes) may rely only on groundwater for water supply, whilst some rely on a combination of rainfall and retained soil/rock pore moisture for survival. The salinity of groundwater and the accessibility to groundwater are limiting factors in determining whether vegetation is likely to dependent on groundwater for survival (Sinclair Knight Merz, 2001).

Most terrestrial groundwater dependent ecosystems require groundwater levels in unconfined aquifers to be at least episodically or periodically within their root zone. In most natural forests, the roots of most eucalyptus species are concentrated in the superficial layers of the soil, however, some eucalyptus roots can extend to 30 m in depth (Jacobs, 1955) and extract water from 6 to 15 m deep (Peck and Williamson, 1987). The depth to groundwater in the Spotted Quoll project area is approximately 30 m, indicating that it would be highly unlikely that any plant species present in the area would be able to access the groundwater. One of the largest eucalyptus species present in the project area is Eucalyptus salmonophloia, whose roots could extend to 30 m in ideal conditions. Whilst this species may be able to access groundwater at this depth, Pepper and Craig (1986) and Chippendale (1973) suggest that Eucalyptus salmonophloia, has only a moderate tolerance to slightly saline water, and therefore would not rely on groundwater with a TDS in the range of 62,000 – 140,000 mg/L found at Spotted Quoll for survival.

As a result, no management strategies are proposed in relation to groundwater dewatering and impact on vegetation.

7.2.3.3 Weeds

The main means of spread of weeds would be through the introduction of infected materials to uninfected areas from soil on vehicles, plant and equipment, staff and contractor boots and plant tube stock (germinated off-site). Land disturbance provides an additional opportunity for weed species to establish in areas.

A number of management measures will be implemented to prevent the introduction or movement of weeds throughout the site including:

• Staff and contractors will be made aware of the potential weed species in the area during the site induction and advised to report any weed establishment to the WSA Environment department;

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• Weed monitoring will be conducted on a quarterly basis on all tenements associated with the Spotted Quoll project. In the event that a particular weed species infestation is identified, targeted management measures will be developed;

• Application of hygiene measures such as equipment and vehicle blowdown prior to accessing project will be used; and

• Implementation of adequate weed control.

7.2.3.4 Dust

Mining is inherently a dust generating activity, particularly during drier summer months. Dust is generated from blasting, excavation, loading, stockpiling and transportation of ore and waste rock. Dust has the potential to settle on vegetation, which can prevent photosynthesis and plant respiration. For the Spotted Quoll mine, the nearest population of DRF, Eucalyptus steedmanii, is located approximately 40m directly south of the pit and south east of the waste rock dump. There are also some individual plants and another two populations of this species to the east and west of the proposed haul road between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox. Whilst the road has been re-align to avoid the destruction of any of the plants, there are some individual plants within 30m of the road.

During the drier summer months when conditions are at their dustiest, prevailing winds are easterlies in the morning and strong south easterlies in the afternoon. Dust being generated in the open pit and around the project area is therefore likely to be blown away from the DRF population to the south of the pit. This is also the case for the large DRF population located to the east of the haul road between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox.

A majority of ore and waste rock excavated from the pit will have a high moisture content as a result of its previous saturation by groundwater, minimising the potential to generate dust during blasting, loading and unloading of ore and waste rock.

Dust management/mitigation strategies are outlined below:

• Vegetation impacts due to construction dust will be minimised through the use of dribble bars on water carts on all high traffic areas;

• Monitoring of local climatic conditions to determine optimal blasting times when prevailing winds will blow away dust from known locations of DRF;

• Restriction of vehicle speeds in high risk dust generation areas;

• Stabilisation of dust on topsoil stockpiles or other earthen stockpiles with salvaged vegetation or stabilising emulsion;

• Dust deposition gauges will be installed at each Eucalyptus steedmanii population that is at a greater risk of being adversely impacted (ie those adjacent to the haul road and the population to the south of the pit) and at control locations. Indicative locations for dust monitoring are shown on Figure 17. The final locations of dust deposition gauges will be decided in consultation with DEC and the results forwarded to DEC on an annual basis;

• Weekly visual assessments of the populations located adjacent to the haul road and mining operations to detect any potential changes in plant health;

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• If adverse trends in the health of adjacent DRF populations are noted that can be attributed to dust deposition then “washing down” of affected plants may be undertaken using potable water to remove deposited dust;

• In addition, pre-emptive actions will be undertaken prior to construction of the project through collection of seed from DRF populations located in the vicinity of the project area for storage in the DEC’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Collections will be guided by the DEC in relation to timing, collection technique and required documentation; and

• Propagation of replacement plants (via direct seeding or planting of tubestock) from seed collected from the affected population and implementation of E. steedmanii re-establishment or re-location program. This action is to be guided by the DEC.

7.2.3.5 Saline Water

Mining below the groundwater table at Spotted Quoll mine will require dewatering to enable dry-floor mining. The water will have to be disposed of in a manner that provides for efficient resource use and minimal environmental impact. The water will be initially stored in a Settling Pond at the Spotted Quoll site before being pumped to the McMahon Pit at the Flying Fox Mine. The water will also be used at the Spotted Quoll Mine and haulage roads for dust suppression.

A number of management measures will be implemented to minimise the risk of impact of saline water on vegetation from spills and overspray and run-off from dust suppression activities. These include:

• Designing and constructing access and haul roads to capture and contain water used in dust suppression;

• Use of dribble bars on water carts to ensure overspray does not occur. Due to the road design and the proposed management practices (which have been successful at WSA’s adjacent operations), no environmental impact on vegetation from the use of saline water for dust suppression is expected;

• Ensuring the pipeline running between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox is buried or trenched, with appropriate leak detection system installed;

• Ensuring that two pumps are maintained in good working order for use at the Settling Pond (to pump water to the McMahon Pit) at all times;

• Ensuring sufficient contingency (secondary containment) is available in the unlikely event that the settling pond fills to capacity;

• Monitoring roadside vegetation health for direct signs of saline water run-off or overspray such as white salt residue, stem and foliage disfigurement, reduced growth, and plant death.

7.2.3.6 Fire

Fire ignition and subsequent spread may present a significant threat to the long term survival of the DRF species Eucalyptus steedmanii and can impact on the biodiversity of floristic communities. Fire can cause large fluctuations in population size, age of plants and geographical distribution of re-seeder species.

The potential significant impacts resulting from fires on the environmental values of the Spotted Quoll mine site area have been identified as listed below:

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• Frequent high intensity fires that:

- threaten the local DRF with degradation and extinction; and

- reduce or significantly alter fauna habitat;

• High intensity, fast moving fires that destroy vegetation on a massive front and which kill fauna that cannot escape the fire front in time. WSA has prepared a Fire Management Plan (see Appendix W) to address the issues of potential fire risks which might be caused by the proposed operations and accordingly, establish appropriate management and mitigation measures. These management/mitigation strategies are outlined below: • Firebreaks will be constructed and maintained on the project area in accordance with legislative requirements;

• Undertake annual fuel-loading assessments on WSA tenements and consider appropriate management options in consultation with DEC ad FESA.

• Company buildings and fixed assets will be designed and constructed, wherever possible, of materials which will withstand fires.

• The Construction and Mine Managers will require the highest standards of “housekeeping” around all buildings and built infrastructure, especially fuel storage areas.

• Mine site personnel will attend the initial site induction and periodical onsite information sessions which will inform personnel on site about fire awareness and response before undertaking welding, cutting or grinding activities and other activities which have potential to ignite the fire.

• There will be no central reticulated fire system at Spotted Quoll project site. Fire protection will be by use of hand held extinguishers within buildings and equipment. A fire protection trailer will be located at Spotted Quoll site that will have fire hoses, a 900-litre water container and a fire pump. A mobile fire and emergency truck which is equipped with a 2000L tank and 2 fast attack hose reels is also available for use in the event of a fire. This is garaged at the Flying Fox mine, 6kms to the north of Spotted Quoll.

• As required by legislation, the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response team trained in Emergency Response which includes the outbreak of fire both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an out break of fire.

• Flammable substances will be stored and used in compliance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

• All mining equipment and generating sets will be equipped with fire extinguishers to minimise the risk of fire from site operations.

• Periodic fire control training will be undertaken for all personnel on site on the proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation of buildings in case of fire and emergency muster points.

• All vehicles will be fitted with two-way radios that can also be used in an emergency situation.

• Smoking will only be permitted in designated areas on the mine site.

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• “Hot work” is any metal-on-metal work, such as welding and grinding which can generate sparks and start fires. No hot work may be carried out on the mine site without a permit issued by a person authorised by the Construction or Mine Manager.

• The Construction Manager (during the construction phase) and then the Mine Manager will be responsible for ensuring that a Fire Response Plan is prepared for the site and that it is implemented, tested with practice drills, and reviewed and updated annually, or as required during the year in the event of changes to personnel or in response to a fire.

• Fire management monitoring will be undertaken by WSA throughout the duration of the project, which will mainly include:

- Conducting a baseline fire risks study prior to the commencement of project to determine the background levels of potential fire risks;

- Public bushfire danger warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology will be used to predict the level of bushfire risk within the Project Area. Appropriate response strategies (for example issue of “hot work” permits may be suspended during periods of extreme fire danger) will be developed accordingly;

• Fire management monitoring requirements will be reviewed after the initial 12 months of operation and adjusted if necessary.

• All WSA employees and contractors will be required to report any potential fire risks to the site manager via their supervisor.

• All records of fire management monitoring kept in accordance with this plan will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Review, which will be submitted to the Department of Mines and Petroleum and DEC.

• WSA will collect seed from Eucalyptus steedmanii populations on their mining tenements for banking in the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Conservation seed banking is the collection and long term storage of seeds and underpins many plant recovery activities. WSA will work with the Department of Environment and Conservation to sustainably harvest seed from local Eucalyptus steedmanii populations during the life of project to ensure that there is enough seed held in storage to meet conservation requirements. WSA will be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation with respect to timing, preferred techniques for collection and required documentation.

• If DRF populations are adversely impacted by fire, seed propagation and a re-establishment or relocation program may be undertaken. This action is to be guided by the DEC.

7.2.4 Environmental Outcome

The flora types and vegetation communities found within the Spotted Quoll project area are represented outside the proposed clearing area associated with the proposal. The proposed clearing activities will modify the degree of representation of some species and plant communities in a local context however the impact on DRF and Priority Species is expected to be minimal.

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7.3 Fauna

7.3.1 Objectives

• To maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of fauna at species and ecosystem levels through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts and improvement in knowledge

• To maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic, distribution and productivity of fauna at species and ecosystems levels through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts and improvement in knowledge. Protect Specially Protected (Threatened) Fauna species and their habitats, consistent with the provisions of the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

7.3.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

• EPA Guidance Statement No. 56 - Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia

• EPA Position Statement No. 3 – Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection

7.3.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies

The potential impacts of the proposed mine on fauna have been identified as:

• Direct loss of habitat due to vegetation clearance

• Direct loss of individual terrestrial fauna from vegetation clearance and vehicle movement

• Impacts on Stygofauna from groundwater dewatering

• Direct impact on fauna from artificial lighting

• Direct impact on fauna from feral animals

• Direct loss of fauna from changes to surface hydrology

• Impact on fauna from acid generation

• Impact on fauna from litter

• Impact of fire on fauna and fauna habitat

7.3.3.1 Direct Loss of Habitat

Habitat supporting at least three Schedule 1 taxa may potentially be impacted by development associated with the Spotted Quoll mine. It is considered unlikely that project will affect the conservation status of the Western Rosella, Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Western Quoll or other Schedule 1 taxa potentially occurring in the area (e.g. Malleefowl).

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A number of management measures will be implemented to minimise any long term impacts on fauna from the loss of habitat. These include:

• Ensuring all staff and contractors attend an environmental induction to raise the awareness about the conservation of fauna (particularly rare, threatened or vulnerable fauna) and their habitats;

• Limiting clearing of vegetation to the minimum necessary to implement the project. This will be achieved using the Western Areas NL internal “Permit to Clear” procedures;

• Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb fauna habitat;

• Other initiatives will be trialled in an effort to minimise impact on fauna. For example, undertaking clearing using a “from the inside out” approach may increase the ability of animals to move beyond the clearing envelope;

• Clearing of large hollow bearing trees will be avoided wherever possible. It should be noted that Salmon Gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) woodlands comprise the preferred nesting habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo;

• Erecting signs on haulage and access roads to create awareness of Malleefowl in the area; and

• Undertaking searches within 100m of any new project disturbance footprint to determine if active Malleefowl mounds are present. If any active mounds are located, these will be avoided wherever possible.

7.3.3.2 Direct Loss of Individual Terrestrial Fauna

It is inevitable that there will be some localised loss of fauna due to direct mortality arising from construction activities, including that which may occur during the clearing of habitat. Ongoing impacts may also arise from more frequent vehicle movements, haulage movements and machinery operation. For all vertebrate and the majority of invertebrate taxa, it is unlikely that the loss of individuals associated with such direct mortalities would be significant enough to affect the overall conservation status of any of the species recorded from the study area.

A number of management measures will be implemented to minimise any impacts on fauna from the activities at the site. These include:

• Trapping and relocation of Chuditch prior to vegetation clearance. Trapping and relocation will occur outside breeding periods to ensure the maximum chance of trapping the fauna and to ensure that dependent young are not left behind in the den;

• Clearing for the project will be undertaken outside the breeding season of Carnaby’s Cockatoo if possible (i.e. outside the period September – January) and large hollow bearing trees that may provide suitable breeding habitat will be retained where ever possible;

• Direct contact with fauna will be avoided whenever possible;

• Speed restrictions on haul and access roads;

• Egress ramps will be provided in pits, trenches and ponds to enable trapped wildlife to escape; and

• Restrictions on bringing pets, firearms, or traps into the project area.

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7.3.3.3 Impacts on Stygofauna from Groundwater Dewatering

Potential impacts on stygofauna from mining include loss of habitat through dewatering. Dewatering is required to enable dry-floor mining of open cut pits. As a result pumps are used to reduce the groundwater level to below the operating floor of the open cut mine. Accordingly, the habitat of the stygofauna could be impacted by the dewatering.

Although it is unlikely that the groundwater contains stygofauna communities due to the saline to hypersaline groundwater quality (62,000 mg/L to 140,000 mg/L (Rockwater, 2008b)), WSA proposes to undertake an additional season of sampling in February 2009 to confirm (or otherwise) the absence of stygofauna in the proposed area of dewatering impact.

7.3.3.4 Artificial Lighting

Lighting may change the behaviour of nocturnal and other fauna. Insects and other fauna may be attracted to the light sources, causing population numbers to decrease in other areas. This issue was assessed as being low risk, and as such no management/mitigation strategies are proposed.

7.3.3.5 Feral Animals

The house mouse, cat and fox have been recorded in fauna surveys in the Forrestania region. Feral cross breed dogs are also found in the area. Fox (and feral dog) predation is one of the major threats to Malleefowl. A number of management measures will be implemented to minimise any impacts on fauna from feral animals. These include:

• Restriction on bringing pets, firearms, or traps into the project area.

• Ensuring all domestic waste at the mine site is covered regularly so as to not attract feral animals.

• Expansion of the existing annual feral animal trapping and baiting program to include the Spotted Quoll mining leases. The program will aid in keeping predatory feral animal numbers to a minimum, with the aim of reducing predation on native fauna.

• Sponsorship of the wild dog control program managed by the Eastern Wheatbelt Declared Species Group (a joint group involving members from the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Department of Environment and Conservation, the Shire of Kondinin and other Shires and individuals including local farmers) for the next 3 years.

7.3.3.6 Changes to Surface Hydrology

Mine activities may affect the surface hydrology, which is characterised by ephemeral flows to which plants and fauna have adapted. The activity may change the quantity or quality of water available to the populations of fauna. It is known that some mygalomorph spiders present in the Spotted Quoll project area are located in drainage lines and changes to the drainage patterns may adversely impact on these spiders.

WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to surface hydrology:

• Prior to the commencement of excavation, shallow cut-off drains will be formed as required upstream of mine infrastructure areas including the pit and waste rock dump to intercept any clean run-off and direct it to natural water courses before it reaches the disturbed working areas. These drains will be maintained and modified as necessary as mining progresses;

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• Regular visual monitoring will be undertaken of the diversion channels and downstream drainage lines, and the condition of vegetation in the diversion channels; and

• A suitably sized toe drain will be installed around the base of the waste rock dump to capture any permeate and re-direct it to a sump, where it can be monitored prior to being discharged to the environment.

7.3.3.7 Acid generation

The risk of generation of acidic drainage from waste rock stockpiling is low, and as such the risk of impact on fauna is also low. WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to acid rock drainage:

• Oxidised basalt will be mixed with other waste rock to maximise surface area contact (and buffering capability) with other lithologies;

• Permeate from the waste rock dump will be captured by a suitably sized toe drain and will be monitored for key acid indicating parameters;

• Where tests show there is no significant impact to permeate water quality, the water will, dependant on quantity, either be left to evaporate or released to the environment in a controlled manner so that capacity can be maintained in the drain; and

• In the event that acid drainage (or other adverse impact) is detected in permeate run-off, a strategy will be developed to manage the impacted water. Strategies could include treatment if necessary and then re-using water onsite (e.g. for dust control or process water) or introducing the impacted water into the existing dewatering disposal system where it will be heavily diluted.

7.3.3.8 Litter

Minimal windblown litter is expected to be generated at the Spotted Quoll Mine site. As covered waste bins will be provided to contain domestic waste from crib and office facilities, the risk of impact of litter on fauna is expected to the minimal and as such, no management/mitigation strategies are proposed.

7.3.3.9 Fire

Fire ignition and subsequent spread may significantly alter fauna habitat and kill fauna that cannot escape the fire front in time. WSA has prepared a Fire Management Plan (see Appendix W) to address the issues of potential fire risks which might be caused by the proposed operations and accordingly, establish appropriate management and mitigation measures. These management/mitigation strategies are outlined below: • Firebreaks will be constructed and maintained on the project area in accordance with legislative requirements;

• Fuel loads will be monitored on WSA tenements and managed where necessary;

• Company buildings and fixed assets will be designed and constructed, wherever possible, of materials which will withstand fires.

• The Construction and Mine Managers will require the highest standards of “housekeeping” around all buildings and built infrastructure, especially fuel storage areas.

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• Mine site personnel will attend the initial site induction and periodical onsite information sessions which will inform personnel on site about fire awareness and response before undertaking welding, cutting or grinding activities and other activities which have potential to ignite the fire.

• There will be no central reticulated fire system at Spotted Quoll project site. Fire protection will be by use of hand held extinguishers within buildings and equipment. A fire protection trailer will be located at Spotted Quoll site that will have fire hoses, a 900-litre water container and a fire pump. A mobile fire and emergency truck which is equipped with a 2000L tank, 2 fast attack hose reels and BIC capability is also available for use in the event of a fire. This is garaged at the Flying Fox mine, 6kms to the north of Spotted Quoll.

• As required by legislation, the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response team trained in Emergency Response which includes the outbreak of fire both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an out break of fire.

• Flammable substances will be stored and used in compliance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

• All mining equipment and generating sets will be equipped with fire extinguishers to minimise the risk of fire from site operations.

• Periodic fire control training will be undertaken for all personnel on site on the proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation of buildings in case of fire and emergency muster points.

• All vehicles will be fitted with two-way radios that can also be used in an emergency situation.

• Smoking will not be permitted in any vehicle on the mine site.

• “Hot work” is any metal-on-metal work, such as welding and grinding which can generate sparks and start fires. No hot work may be carried out on the mine site without a permit issued by a person authorised by the Construction or Mine Manager.

• The Construction Manager (during the construction phase) and then the Mine Manager will be responsible for ensuring that a Fire Response Plan is prepared for the site and that it is implemented, tested with practice drills, and reviewed and updated annually, or as required during the year in the event of changes to personnel or in response to a fire.

• Fire management monitoring will be undertaken by WSA throughout the duration of the project, which will mainly include:

- Conducting a baseline fire risks study prior to the commencement of project to determine the background levels of potential fire risks;

- Public bushfire danger warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology will be used to predict the level of bushfire risk within the Project Area. Appropriate response strategies (for example issue of “hot work” permits may be suspended during periods of extreme fire danger) will be developed accordingly;

• Fire management monitoring requirements will be reviewed after the initial 12 months of operation and adjusted if necessary.

• All WSA employees and contractors will be required to report any potential fire risks to the site manager via their supervisor.

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• All records of fire management monitoring kept in accordance with this plan will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Review, which will be submitted to the Department of Mines and Petroleum and DEC.

• WSA will collect seed from Eucalyptus steedmanii populations on their mining tenements for banking in the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Conservation seed banking is the collection and long term storage of seeds and underpins many plant recovery activities. WSA will work with the Department of Environment and Conservation to sustainably harvest seed from local Eucalyptus steedmanii populations during the life of project to ensure that there is enough seed held in storage to meet conservation requirements. WSA will be guided by the Department of Environment and Conservation with respect to timing, preferred techniques for collection and required documentation.

• If DRF populations are adversely impacted by fire, seed propagation and a re-establishment or relocation program may be undertaken. This action is to be guided by the DEC.

7.3.4 Environmental Outcome

The habitats within the Spotted Quoll project area are well represented within the range and on the adjoining plains are common and widespread throughout the region. The fauna recorded or expected to occur within the project area are unlikely to be significantly impacted by clearing and temporary removal of these habitats. Consequently, the impact of the proposed Spotted Quoll project on fauna and habitat will be negligible in a regional conservation context.

Clearing measures, mining and exploration procedures, feral animal programs and rehabilitation methods will assist in mitigating the impacts on fauna and habitats.

7.4 Surface Water

7.4.1 Objectives

• To maintain the quantity of water so that existing and potential environmental values, including ecosystem maintenance, are protected

• To maintain the quality of water so that environment values or the health, welfare and amenity of people and land uses are protected, by meeting statutory requirements and acceptable standards

7.4.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Water and Rivers Commission Act 1995

• Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914

• Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality, (ANZECC & ARMCANZ, 2000)

• Water Quality Protection Guidelines No 1-11, Mining and Mineral Processing (WRC, DME and DEP 2000)

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7.4.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

The proposed mining operations and disposal of waste rock pose the following potential issues in regards to surface water quantity and quality:

• Degradation of surface water quality at the Spotted Quoll site from increased turbidity as a result of construction and mining activities and contamination of runoff water with fuels, oils or other chemicals;

• Changes in the volumes of runoff due to presence of infrastructure and drainage diversion structures.

7.4.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

Impacts on surface water quality will be minimised by constructing bunds around mine infrastructure areas which have the potential to contaminate surface water flows with fuels, oils, sediment or other contaminants.

• Any spills of contaminants, such as oil or fuel, which occur outside of bunded areas will be cleaned up immediately where a risk of surface water contamination occurs.

• Surface water management structures as outlined in Sections 7.3.3.6 and 7.3.3.7 will be designed and constructed to minimise erosion.

• Diversion drains will be constructed to ensure water re-enters natural drainage lines at a velocity and depth that can be accommodated by the natural stream line without increased scouring.

• Regular visual monitoring will be undertaken of the diversion channels and downstream drainage lines, and the condition of vegetation in the diversion channels. Should substantial erosion occur, the cause of the erosion will be identified, erosion/deposition areas rehabilitated as appropriate, and measures implemented to prevent further erosion. At closure, disturbed areas will be stabilised and revegetated to minimise erosion potential

• Uncontaminated stormwater will be permitted to infiltrate into the ground. .

• Restricted washdown of mobile equipment or vehicles will be conducted in the workshop washdown bay, thereby avoiding the generation of contaminated washdown water.

• The workshop floor will be concreted suitable for the vehicle loads and will have a work trench for maintenance access under the vehicles. The surface for the workshop yard will be levelled and V- drains provided for rainwater diversion where required.

• Drainage and water collection structures will be inspected on a regular basis and properly maintained.

• Drainage and hydrology impacts will be managed in accordance with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Draft Guidance No. 26 ‘Management of Surface Run-Off from Industrial and Commercial Sites’ (EPA, 1999). The following initiatives are proposed to manage surface and groundwater resources at the Project:

• Prior to the commencement of excavation, shallow cut-off drains will be formed around each pit and waste rock dump to intercept any clean run-off and direct it to natural water courses before it reaches the disturbed working areas. These drains will be maintained and modified as necessary as mining progresses.

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• A suitably sized toe drain will be installed around the base of the waste rock dump to capture any permeate.

• The dewatering pipeline from Spotted Quoll to McMahon Pit/Settling Pond will be buried and fitted with a telemetry-based leak detection system in the form of a flow meter and transmitter at each end of the pipeline. Leak monitoring will be via a PLC and control circuit containing software and programming to detect any discrepancy of flow rates between the associated magnetic flow meters. In the event of a leak or breach in the pipeline, the pipeline pump stations can be shut down. The pipeline will be also visually inspected once each day to detect minor leaks that may not have tripped the pressure sensors. The pipeline systems are currently used effectively for the Flying Fox to Cosmic Boy dewatering pipeline.

• Bulk quantities (in excess of 200L in aggregate) of liquid chemicals stored onsite will be stored in bunded areas designed to appropriate Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids, as required by the DMP.

• Hazardous substances that are liquid shall be stored in bunded, fire resistant storage areas. Where required, the storage areas shall be weatherproof.

• Spillages will be reported and remediated in line with WSA Incident reporting procedures.

• All staff on the mining site shall be trained in the hazards associated with the stored hazardous substances and procedures to follow in the event of an emergency.

• All fuel tanks and bunded areas will be inspected at least weekly for evidence of spills or leakage in accordance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and associated Regulations.

• All oil collection pits, drainage systems and bunded areas will be inspected at least weekly to ensure these are maintained and operated appropriately, and that excess stormwater that is contaminated is pumped out and removed from the site by a licensed contractor upon request.

• Waste characterisation indicates there is a low potential for acid drainage. Any drainage from the waste rock dump will be monitored and in the event that acid drainage is detected, collection, treatment and disposal or re-use of the drainage will be conducted as required.

7.4.5 Environmental Outcome

Mining activities are not expected to have any significant impact on water flows or quality downstream of the mine site.

7.5 Groundwater

7.5.1 Objectives

• To maintain the quantity of groundwater so that existing and potential environmental values, including ecosystem maintenance, are protected.

7.5.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Water and Rivers Commission Act 1995

• Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914

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• Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC & ARMCANZ, 2000)

• Contaminated Sites Management Series - Assessment Levels for Soil, Sediment and Water (DEP, 2003).

• Water Quality Protection Guidelines No 1-11, Mining and Mineral Processing (WRC, DME & DEP, 2000).

7.5.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies

Up to 12960 m3 of groundwater will be abstracted from bores located within and adjacent to the open cut pit at the Spotted Quoll mine site per day. Upon cessation of mining, groundwater seepage and incident rain will accumulate in the pit void.

Potential impacts on groundwater from the Spotted Quoll mining proposal have been identified as:

• Draw-down of groundwater levels in the vicinity of the open pit due to dewatering;

• Impact on groundwater quality from potentially acid generating waste rock

• Contamination of groundwater due to accidental spill of hydrocarbons.

7.5.3.1 Drawdown of groundwater levels

Groundwater levels at Spotted Quoll are at 344 to 376 m AHD (about 27 to 55 bgs), sloping downwards from south-east to north-west. The proposed mining operations will result in localised lowering of hydraulic head. A draw-down of hydraulic head of approximately 130 m is expected in the centre of the open cut decreasing to 1m at a maximum distance of approximately 4 km from the pit.

WSA will need to abstract up to 4.73 GL/annum of groundwater from the dewatering bores at the project site to enable dry floor mining. As of the 29th December 2008, there was approximately 7.6 GL/annum of groundwater available for abstraction from the Kondinin - Ravensthorpe Combined - Fracture Rock West - Fractured Rock Aquifer, indicating that the dewatering activities at Spotted Quoll will not adversely impact on the Aquifer.

WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to drawdown of groundwater:

• An application will be made to the Department of Water for a licence to abstract a maximum of 5.0 GL/annum from the Kondinin-Ravensthorpe Combined - Fracture Rock West - Fractured Rock Aquifer;

• Groundwater level monitoring will be undertaken at the monitoring bores at the project site once dewatering activities commence; and

• Results of monitoring will be reported to the DEC on an annual basis.

7.5.3.2 Impact on groundwater quality from potentially acid generating waste rock

Geochemical analysis of lithologies in the Spotted Quoll deposit indicates that there is minimal likelihood of acid generation occurring from the material that will be disposed of in the waste rock dump. Oxidised basalt (10% of waste rock material) existing in the eastern side of the Spotted Quoll pit has a slight Net Acid Producing Potential (NAPP) of 0.16 Kg H2SO4/t. Other lithologies represented are non-

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acid generating and have acid neutralizing capacities (ANCs) ranging from 2.4 Kg H2SO4/t to 28.63 Kg

H2SO4/t. Approximately 87.6% of waste rock has ANC levels greater than 14.99 Kg H2SO4/t.

WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to arid rock drainage:

• Oxidised basalt will be mixed with other waste rock to maximise surface area contact (and buffering capability) with other lithologies;

• Runoff from the waste rock dump will be captured within a suitably sized toe drain and will be monitored for key acid indicating parameters. Runoff will be dependant on rainfall events and the monitoring schedule will be determined by these events;

• In the event that acid drainage is detected in run-off, a strategy will be developed to manage any impacted water.

7.5.3.3 Hydrocarbon Management

Up to 200,000 L of hydrocarbons (diesel) will be stored at the Spotted Quoll mine site. Minor amounts of oils and lubricants will also be stored for use in servicing vehicles and equipment. WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to the protection of groundwater from contamination from storage and handling of hydrocarbons: • Two self-bunded bulk fuel tanks each of 100 kL capacity will be installed. The fuel filling location will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank; • All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110% of the volume of the largest container stored and 25% of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored; • Oily runoff will be collected and treated through appropriately designed and sized oil/water separators. Oil/water separators will be regularly cleaned and maintained; • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and will be recycled wherever possible and if not, removed offsite by licensed contractor; • If inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon occurs the spill will be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. The contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site; • Used oils, greases and lubricants will be stored in designated tanks in a bunded area constructed in accordance with Australian Standard 1940; and • Staff will be trained in appropriate incident/emergency response procedures.

7.5.4 Environmental Outcome

Groundwater reserves within the region will not be significantly reduced. Water level drawdown from bores within the project area will be localised. On cessation of mining they will recover to pre-mining levels.

It is not expected that the quality of the groundwater will be affected by the project. No processing of ore or storage of tailings will occur on site and acid rock drainage is expected to be minimal.

Spills of hazardous materials will be cleaned up and the site remediated.

The installation of monitoring bores and a monitoring program will ensure that production bore abstraction has no adverse impacts to the groundwater quantity and quality of the region.

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7.6 Soil and Landform

7.6.1 Objectives

To maintain the integrity, ecological functions and environmental values of the soil and landform.

7.6.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Water Quality Protection Guidelines No. 9: Acid Mine Drainage (DOW, DMP& DEC)

7.6.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

• Hydrocarbon spillage

• Hypersaline water spillage

• Acid rock drainage

7.6.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

WSA proposes the following management/mitigation strategies in relation to hydrocarbon, hypersaline water, and acid rock drainage management:

• Oxidised basalt will be mixed with other waste rock to maximise surface area contact (and buffering capability) with other lithologies;

• Runoff from the waste rock dump will be captured within a suitably sized toe drain and will be monitored for key acid indicating parameters. Runoff will be dependant on rainfall events and the monitoring schedule will be determined by these events;

• In the event that acid drainage is detected in run-off, a strategy will be developed to manage any impacted water. • Two self-bunded bulk fuel tanks each of 100 kL capacity will be installed. The fuel filling location will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank; • All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110 % of the volume of the largest container stored and 25 % of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored; • Oily runoff will be collected and treated through appropriately designed and sized oil/water separators. Oil/water separators will be regularly cleaned and maintained; • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and will be recycled wherever possible and if not, removed offsite by licensed contractor; • If inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon of hypersaline water occurs the spill will be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. Hydrocarbon contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site, whilst saline contaminated soil will be buried in the waste rock dump. • Used oils, greases and lubricants will be stored in designated tanks in a bunded area constructed in accordance with Australian Standard 1940; and • Staff will be trained in appropriate incident/emergency response procedures.

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7.6.5 Environmental Outcome

Mining activities are not expected to have any significant impact on the integrity, ecological functions and environmental values of the soil and landform.

7.7 Dust and Particulates

7.7.1 Objectives

• To ensure that best practicable measures are taken to minimise discharges of dust and particulate emissions to the atmosphere.

• To ensure that emissions do not adversely affect environmental values or the health, welfare and amenity of people and land uses by meeting statutory requirements and acceptable standards.

7.7.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

The following Act and Regulations apply to the potential issues of dust and particulates emissions which may be the result of project construction and operations:

• Environmental Protection Act 1986;

• Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004;

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999; and

• National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPMs) outlined in the National Environment Protection Council (Western Australia) Act 1996, including:

a) Ambient Air Quality NEPM.

b) Diesel Vehicle Emissions NEPM.

c) National Pollutant Inventory NEPM.

7.7.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

The main activities likely to produce dust include vegetation clearance, construction and decommissioning activities and earthworks, overburden and ore excavation, transport and deposition, vehicle movement, and rehabilitation and revegetation activities.

The main potential receptors of impact from dust include vegetation communities, Declared Rare Flora, Priority Species and Humans.

7.7.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

A range of control measures will be implemented to eliminate, minimise and control dust and particulates generation activities at the proposed Spotted Quoll Mining site.

Control measures proposed by WSA for the Project include:

• A ‘minimum clearing’ policy will be adopted to ensure that vegetation is cleared only when and where necessary. In instances where the clearing of extensive areas is unavoidable, additional dust suppression techniques will be employed to ensure stabilisation of the cleared surfaces;

• Unsealed roads will be watered by watercarts with dribble bars during dry, dusty periods;

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• Topsoil stripping will be scheduled to avoid periods of high winds. When necessary, stripping operations are to be suspended under particularly high wind conditions;

• Where practicable, topsoil will be directly transferred to exposed surfaces requiring rehabilitation and covered with any salvaged vegetative material;

• Vegetative cover on topsoil stockpiles will be encouraged.

• Areas of the mining site that are disturbed during the construction phase and that will no longer be accessed during operation will be rehabilitated. Procedures will be implemented to prevent unauthorised access to rehabilitated areas to enhance the success of re-growth;

• Methods for minimising the amount of dust produced by drilling and blasting operations will be investigated and applied where applicable;

• Climatic conditions will be monitored and the data used to assist with planning blast events. Prevailing wind information will be utilised to, where possible, undertake blasting when wind directions are blowing away from the protected DRF areas in the immediate vicinity of the mining site;

• Waste rock dumps will be designed so that the amount of exposed surface area is minimised, and the amount of active dumps are minimised, allowing for progressive rehabilitation;

• Vehicle speeds will be restricted on unsealed surfaces. It is proposed to restrict vehicle speeds on haul roads to 80 km/hr and 40 km/hr around the mine and administrative areas;

• Dust deposition gauges will be installed at each E. steedmanii population that is at risk of being adversely impacted by dust. Results of the monitoring will be forwarded to the DEC on an annual basis in an Annual Environmental Report.

• Dust emissions will be monitored on a regular basis through visual inspections of disturbed and open areas;

• Inform all employees and contractors of the importance of reducing dust.

7.7.5 Environmental Outcome

It is considered the proposed management/mitigation measures will effectively maintain dust and particulates emissions arising from the project activities to comply with NEPM and other adopted criteria and be managed to meet the EPA’s objective in relation to this issue.

7.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions

7.8.1 Objectives

To minimise emissions to levels as low as practicable on an on-going basis and consider offsets to further reduce cumulative emissions.

7.8.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

The following Acts and Regulations apply to the potential issues of greenhouse gases emissions which may be caused by the project construction and operations:

• Environmental Protection Act 1986;

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• EPA Guidance Statement No. 12 – Minimising Greenhouse Gas Emissions: and

• National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPMs) outlined in the National Environment Protection Council (Western Australia) Act 1996, including:

a) Ambient Air Quality NEPM;

b) Diesel Vehicle Emissions NEPM; and

c) National Pollutant Inventory NEPM.

7.8.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

The proposal will mainly liberate greenhouse gases as a result of use of grid electricity, onsite wastewater and solid waste generation and processing and combustion of diesel fuels (including from both stationary and transport sources). The most significant greenhouse gases for this proposal have been identified as carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O), which are generally liberated when fuels are burnt and in the generation of the electrical energy.

Total greenhouse gas emissions from the proposal are estimated at approximately 52,560 tonnes CO2- e during the three-year project life (Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment Report, Appendix Y). The two significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions are the proposed gird electricity use and diesel fuel combustion from the onsite generator sets usage and on-site and off-site vehicle movements, emitting approximately 8699 and 41,338 tonnes CO2-e or 16.55% and 78.65% of total greenhouse gas emission throughout the whole project life.

7.8.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

Measures that will be undertaken during construction and operations to minimise energy and diesel fuel use and therefore to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions include:

• Establishing an overhead power supply lines from the Flying Fox site as soon as possible to enable the usage of electricity supplied by Western Power grid, to minimise diesel generator requirements;

• Locating the infrastructures within the mining site as close as possible to the proposed power supply line to reduce line losses onsite;

• Ensuring that vehicles and equipment are regularly serviced and fitted with appropriate emission control equipment;

• Integrating processes to minimise material handling such as direct replacement of mine materials where possible; and

• Monitoring energy consumption and calculating greenhouse gas emissions, which will enable additional sources of greenhouse gas emissions to be identified and extra measures employed to identify and assess economically viable opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

7.8.5 Environmental Outcome

Given the measures as presented above are implemented effectively during project construction and operations, and replanting native vegetation as a part of rehabilitation works to be undertaken before the project closure, the issue of greenhouse gas emissions arising from the project activities can be

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managed to be consistent with the guidelines in NEPM and other adopted criteria and thus meet the EPA’s objective in relation to this issue.

7.9 Noise and Vibration

7.9.1 Objectives

To protect the amenity of nearby residents from noise impacts resulting from activities associated with the proposal by ensuring that noise levels meet the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 and the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

7.9.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

The following regulations and criteria apply to the potential issues of noise and vibration which may be caused by the project construction and operations:

• Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997;

• Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995; and

• The Noise Provisions of the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 (Part 7: Division 1).

7.9.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

Mining will be by conventional drilling-and-blasting and truck-and-shovel methods for 24 hours per day, 7 days per week and 52 weeks per year. The majority of noise and vibration generations during mine site construction and operations will be primarily from the diesel-powered earth moving equipment employed on site, and also could be a result of the following operations:

• Diesel fuelled generator sets;

• Vegetation and soil removal using excavators and loaders;

• Drilling and blasting;

• Removing ore and waste using loaders and trucks;

• Transporting ore and waste to their respective areas; and

• Vehicular movements from and to the mining site.

The generated noise will propagate and increase noise levels in the surrounding area surrounding the proposed western disturbance area. However, the noise nuisance attenuates by distance travelled over land, and usually does not extend more than 1 to 2 km from a mine (the Cosmic Boy accommodation camp is approximately 6km north of the Spotted Quoll Mine site). The potential risks and impacts on the surrounding environments associated with noise and vibration to this proposal could be minimal due to its relatively remote and separated locations and absence of nearby residential facilities. There are no other residences or other operations within the 5km radius around the site.

7.9.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

The following management measures will be implemented to reduce noise emissions from the project:

• Optimise the layout and schedules of mining activities;

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• Reduce the number of equipment items operating where practicable;

• Enclose noisy pumps such as skid mounted dewatering pumps; and

• Compliance monitoring of noise levels at sensitive receivers will be undertaken in response to any complaints received.

7.9.5 Environmental Outcomes

Given all on-site mining operations will be complying with the noise regulations under the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 and the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997, thus the EPA’s objective in relation to this factor can be met.

7.10 Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Waste

7.10.1 Objective

• To minimize the generation of dangerous and hazardous wastes follows consideration of waste reduction generally by means of reduction, reuse, recycling, treatment, and disposal, and ensure safe management and disposal of the hazardous waste that cannot be reused or recycled;

• To protect the beneficial uses of air, land and water, and human ecological health from the impacts of hazardous materials and dangerous goods; and

• To minimise chemical and fuel storage onsite.

7.10.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

Relevant standards and guidelines in regards to dangerous goods and hazardous waste storage, transport, and management, include but are not limited to:

• DEC Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004, including: - Guidelines for Controlled Waste Generators;

- Guidelines for Controlled Waste Treatment and Disposal Sites; and

- Guidelines for Acceptance of Solid Waste to Landfill.

• Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and associated Regulations Department of Consumer and Employment Protection; and • Health Act 1911.

7.10.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

The development and operations at the mining site will result in the generation of minor quantities of solid waste and domestic waste and small quantities of liquid wastes primarily oils and other hydrocarbon wastes including rags and filters, which has been estimated to be around 460 tonnes/annum. Most of these solid and liquid wastes including lubricants, hazardous chemicals can harm humans, animals and vegetation or disrupt aquatic ecosystems if allowed to enter the environment (i.e. groundwater). The inappropriate transportation and storage of the dangerous goods can also lead to environmental problems including:

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• The contamination of ground or surface waters;

• Flammable hazards;

• Negative impacts on human health; and

• The creation of nuisance conditions such as offensive odours or wind-blown waste.

7.10.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

The following mitigation measures are proposed to limit impacts associated with poor dangerous goods and hazardous solid waste management practices during site construction and operation: • Maintaining a manifest of dangerous goods and hazardous materials stored on the site, including their quantities and locations. The manifest will be audited regularly; • Hazardous materials will be stored in clearly marked dedicated storage facilities and will be clearly marked on all site maps; • Hazardous solid waste will be collected and disposed of into dedicated skip bins located on site. These bins will be emptied on a scheduled basis by a licensed waste contractor. Wastes will be disposed of to an approved waste disposal facility (e.g. Hyden, Kondinin or Perth) by the licensed contractor; • All explosives and toxic materials will be stored in fenced and locked site storage in accordance with the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 and the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004; • Dry toxic and hazardous wastes that may be generated shall be exported to an approved disposal site (in accordance with the Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations, 2004) or as otherwise approved by the DEC; • Two 100 kL capacity self-bunded diesel fuel tanks will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank; • Waste oil storage tank(s) and storage for bulk oil containers complete with oil reticulation air pumps, hoses, reels and fittings will be constructed at the project. All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110% of the volume of the largest container stored and 25% of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored; • Conducting regular audits and inspections of hazardous material use and storage; • All hazardous waste bins will be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good condition and are not corroded; • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and removed offsite by licensed contractor; • If an inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon occurs the spill would be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. The contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site; • In the event that used oils, greases and lubricants need to be stored on site, the storage would be in a designated tank in a bunded area in accordance with Australian Standard 1940. Any material stored on site will be transported periodically by a licensed contractor to an oil recycling facility; • Records will be kept of the disposal of any hazardous materials (including fuel and /or oil spills) including the volume and the method of disposal; • Septic tanks and associated above and below ground pipe work will be inspected (at least annually) to determine if leaks to the pipe work have occurred due to corrosion or other damage;

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• Staff and contractors will be trained as required regarding the handling, storage and use of hazardous materials in their work area. Emergency response procedures will also need to be included in this training; • As required by legislation the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response team trained in Emergency Response which includes the handling of incidents involving hazardous materials both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an incident involving Hazardous Materials. • Personal protection equipment (i.e. gloves, plastic coveralls, safety glasses and self-contained respirators) need to be provided and ensure that all relative operators wear the appropriate equipment while handling hazardous materials; • Material Safety Data Sheets, which should be provided by the material manufacturer, will be clearly marked and located in all areas where hazardous materials are used or stored; and • Staff shall be made aware of issues affecting hazardous materials management, associated environmental impacts and be given opportunities to improve hazardous waste management procedures.

7.10.5 Environmental Outcome

It is considered that the implementation of the mitigation and management measures related to the handling and storage of dangerous goods and hazardous materials on site during both project development and operation phases will meet the EPA’s objective in relation to this factor.

7.11 Aboriginal Heritage

7.11.1 Objectives

• To ensure that changes to the biophysical environment do not adversely affect historical and cultural associations and comply with relevant heritage legislation.

• Maintain awareness of more localised heritage and historical values.

7.11.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• National Environment Protection Council (Western Australia) Act 1996

• Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972

• Heritage of Western Australia Act 1990

• EPA Guidance Statement No. 41, Assessment of Aboriginal Heritage

7.11.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts Historical archaeological surveys of the Forrestania area and a recent (2008) Native Title claim investigation of the proposed Spotted Quoll project site indicate that there are no sites of Aboriginal heritage in the area.

There is a current registered Native Title claim (WAD 6181/98) by the Ballardong People over the area that encompasses the Spotted Quoll project site.

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7.11.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

WSA will avoid any unnecessary disturbance to any identified Aboriginal heritage sites. Management and mitigation measures that will be implemented to achieve this will include:

• A general site induction, including information regarding the importance of cultural sensitivity, respect for land and protection of items of heritage significance and measures for protecting and reporting Aboriginal sites identified during surveys or discovered during operations. All employees and contractors will be required to participate in this induction.

• Compliance with the requirements of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, including seeking advice from the Department of Indigenous Affairs in the event that any Aboriginal heritage sites are identified during the life of the project.

7.11.5 Environmental Outcome

The heritage values of the Spotted Quoll project area and region have been identified through appropriate survey and consultation that will be ongoing during the project. The proposed Spotted Quoll project is expected to have no impact on any Aboriginal cultural or heritage sites of significance.

7.12 European Heritage

7.13 Objectives

• To ensure that changes to the biophysical environment do not adversely affect historical and cultural associations and comply with relevant heritage legislation.

• Maintain awareness of more localised heritage and historical values.

7.13.1 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

• State Register of Heritage Places, Heritage Council of Western Australia

• Natural Heritage Trust Act 1997

• Local Government Heritage Inventory

7.13.2 Key Risks and Potential Impacts There are no European heritage sites of significance at the proposed project tenements.

7.13.3 Management and Mitigation Measures

No management and mitigation measures required.

7.13.4 Environmental Outcome

The proposed Spotted Quoll project is expected to have no impact on any European cultural or heritage sites of significance.

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7.14 Social and Cultural Environment

7.14.1 Objectives

To ensure that the aesthetic values are considered and measures are adopted to reduce visual impacts on the landscape to as low as reasonably practicable.

7.14.2 Applicable Standards and Guidelines

As there are no regulatory standards, the factor is to be assessed against the objective.

7.14.3 Key Risks and Potential Impacts

The closest pastoral area is located approximately 35 kilometres south-west of the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine.

The closest conservation reserve is the Lake Cronin Class A nature Reserve that is approximately 9.6km from the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine site.

The Lake Cronin environmentally sensitive area (ESA) is about 31,400 ha in area and is significant for rare species, high diversity and high level of endemism. It also contains a high number of species that are disjunct. The Lake Cronin ESA is listed on the Register of the National Estate (NER 9929). A small part at the north of the tenement lies within the Lake Cronin ESA boundary. The proposed Spotted Quoll mine site is located 3.5 km south west of Lake Cronin ESA boundary, hence it is unlikely that any mining activities will impact on species that are disjunct or reduce the diversity found within the Reserve.

7.14.4 Management and Mitigation Measures

No management and mitigation measures required.

7.14.5 Environmental Outcome

Consultation with special interest and Indigenous groups has indicated that through implementation of management measures there will be no negative impacts.

7.15 Decommissioning, Mine Closure and Rehabilitation

7.15.1 Objectives

The objective is to ensure, as far as practicable, that rehabilitation achieves a stable and functioning landform which is consistent with surrounding landscape and environmental values

7.15.2 Applicable legislation, Standards and Guidelines

• Environmental Protection Act 1986

• Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

• Mining Act 1978 • Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994

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7.15.3 Key Risks, Potential Impacts and Management/Mitigation Strategies

At the conclusion of operations the mine area will be significantly disturbed. Without appropriate decommissioning and rehabilitation the following impacts may result:

• Disruption to surface water flows and erosion

• Unacceptable landscape impacts

• Unstable landforms with associated risk of rock fall all landslip

• Propagation of exotic or non-indigenous plant species in disturbed areas

• Development of unrepresentative vegetation complexes that are not consistent with local and regional vegetation

• Loss of fauna habitats

• Contamination of soil and groundwater

7.15.4 Post Mining Land Use

In developing WSA’s rehabilitation program the needs of key stakeholders, including the local community, interest groups and government are considered.

Disturbed areas at the Spotted Quoll Mine will be returned as near as possible to native bushland. The intent is to achieve a stable rehabilitated system compatible with the targeted final land use and commensurate with the capability of the rehabilitated systems.

Rehabilitation at Spotted Quoll will be conducted progressively to minimise the total area of land disturbed at any one time. It is anticipated all areas will be rehabilitated by the end of mine life, or shortly thereafter.

7.15.5 Funding

DMP requires the proponent to submit a bond for the proposed area of land to be disturbed on mining proposals. The purpose of environmental performance bonds is to ensure that the State is not exposed to unacceptable cost should mine operators fail to meet the rehabilitation requirements on their tenements (DMP, 2008).

The bond will be negotiated and agreed with DMP prior to commencement of mining and reviewed when an operation approaches the end of mine life, or is about to go under “Care and Maintenance”, administration or receivership to reflect the true cost of closure (including site management, planning and mobilisation costs).

7.15.6 Decommissioning and Closure Activities

7.15.6.1 Key Objectives and Completion Criteria

The overall objective of rehabilitation is to establish a safe, stable landform with a self-sustaining and resilient vegetative cover similar in species richness, density and function to that in the surrounding landscape.

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Rehabilitation of mining areas will be carried out progressively over the mine life so that large areas are not left open for erosion and the mine does not finish with a large rehabilitation liability.

Completion criteria are an agreed standard or level of performance that enables progressive assessment of the site in meeting the objectives, and ultimately demonstrate successful closure (ANZMEC/MCA, 2000). DEC requires that completion criteria must be sufficiently stringent to ensure that the overall objectives of rehabilitation have been met. These criteria must also be designed to allow effective reporting and auditing to define an endpoint for rehabilitation activities where sites can be handed over to a third party.

Conceptual completion criteria for the Spotted Quoll project have been developed (Table 30) but will be continually reviewed during the life of the project, particularly as further research in conducted. The interim targets will in turn be reviewed against the success of progressive rehabilitation (both at Spotted Quoll and nearby Flying Fox Mine) in the setting of closure targets in the final DCP. Table 30 Interim Completion Criteria, Objectives and Targets

Criteria Objective Targets Safety Leave site in a safe, stable, non- • Remove all site infrastructure and equipment polluting and tidy condition with no that could pose a safety hazard if left in place remaining plant or infrastructure that • Safety and abandonment structures all in place is not required for post operational

use. Landform and Establish a safe and stable post- • Reconstructed landforms and drainage lines will Hydrology mining land surface which is erosion be tied into undisturbed topography resistant over the long term • Restore original pathways of pre-mining drainage lines where possible • No active erosion rills greater than 10 m x 0.1 m • Maximum slope angles of 20° for waste rock dumps (to mimic natural angles of iron cap hills) and 8° for other areas • Use of native soils in areas to be revegetated • Embankments constructed to enhance infiltration where there is a potential for overland water flow to create erosion problems • All major drainage lines are designed for a 1:100 average reoccurrence interval (ARI) Soils Soil profiles that are capable of • All soils used for the upper soil profile will be supporting the intended end land from local stockpiled topsoil use • The minimum depth of upper soil profile will be 100mm Visual Leave site in a safe, stable, non- • No remaining plant or infrastructure that is not amenity and polluting and tidy condition with no required for post-operational use heritage remaining plant or infrastructure that is not required for post operational use. Contaminated Treat/manage contaminated land • All contaminated areas identified and assessed Land and and water to restore pre-mining in accordance with DEC’s Development of Groundwater beneficial uses of the resources. Sampling and Analysis Programs (DoE, 2001) • Contaminants meet DEC’s ecological assessment levels for soil, sediment and water (DoE, 2003) Vegetation Establish an adequate cover of • Vegetated communities established are

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Criteria Objective Targets vegetation which resembles the representative of those communities in surrounding environment as closely surrounding areas1 as practicable and is resilient and • Keystone species are to be returned to the self-sustaining rehabilitation areas as a priority – identify keystone species, include on seed list and undertake research if species are not returning to the rehabilitation areas • Native seed used in rehabilitation is local provenance seed

1 Specific targets to be developed

Table 31 summarises the activities proposed activities for achieving the closure objectives of the project. A more detailed Decommissioning and Closure plan will be prepared outlining the program in detail. The plan will be utilised to allow a costing schedule to be prepared which will allow WSA to reserve adequate funds for the works.

Table 31 Proposed Closure Activities

Aspect Conceptual Closure Activities

Mine void • Establish surface water diversion works • Construct bunding around perimeter of void in accordance with DMP guidelines Waste Rock • Progressively batter final waste dump slopes and contour to blend with topography Dump • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species • Establish/maintain surface water diversion works ROM Pad • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species Explosives • Remove all explosives and associated equipment off site Magazines • Dismantle magazines and remove from site or demolish if permanent and bury • Remove scrap metal for recycling • Bury remaining inert materials not suitable for sale or recycling • Undertake contaminated site assessment • If contamination of soil or groundwater is identified, undertake further investigation and remediation/management • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species

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Aspect Conceptual Closure Activities

Haul Roads • Stakeholder consultation to determine post-operational use for haul roads and access tracks and Access • haul roads and access tracks not required by stakeholders to be rehabilitated Tracks • Remove culverts and other infrastructure • Excavate hardstand and contour to re-instate pre-mining drainage lines • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species Administration, • Dismantle and remove facilities workshops and • Remove scrap metal from site for recycling other ancillary Excavate and remove/or bury concrete footings buildings • • Bury remaining inert scrap metal not suitable for sale or recycling • Remediate any contaminated soils • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species Bulk • Remove any residual hydrocarbon materials from bulk storage tanks and transfer to a hydrocarbon licensed facility for disposal storage • Remove empty bulk storage tanks from site. • Remove scrap metal for recycling • Bury remaining inert materials not suitable for sale or recycling • Undertake contaminated site assessment • If contamination of soil or groundwater is identified, undertake further investigation and remediation/management • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species Sewage • Empty sewage from the treatment facilities and transfer to an approved facility for disposal by treatment a licensed operator facilities (septic • Fill treatment facility with sand and bury tanks) • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species Dewatering • Water supply bores that are not required for ongoing monitoring will be shut down, bore bores and casing cut off below ground surface and bores plugged pumps • Above ground pipes and pumps to be flushed and removed from site • Below ground pipes to the cut off below ground level and remain buried • Disturbed areas to be contoured, ripped and seeded Groundwater • Groundwater monitoring bores that are not required for ongoing monitoring will be shut down, monitoring bore casing cut off below ground surface and bores plugged bores • Disturbed areas to be contoured, ripped and seeded

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Aspect Conceptual Closure Activities

Drains • Drains along roads and tracks that will be left open will remain intact • Drains no longer required will be re-contoured to restore the natural drainage • Eroded areas to be repaired • Disturbed areas to be contoured, ripped and seeded HV power • Dismantle and remove all power generation equipment, associated infrastructure and supply lines transmission lines from site for sale • Bury remaining inert scrap metal not suitable for sale or recycling • Remediate any hydrocarbon contaminated soils • Contour to restore natural drainage • Direct replacement of topsoil • Deep rip on the contour • Seed with local provenance native species

7.15.6.2 Demolition

All plant and permanent structures will be dismantled or demolished and removed. Recoverable materials may be sold if a suitable market can be found at the time of decommissioning. It is envisaged that, prior to closure the final lift of the waste rock disposal area would be developed in such a manner as to leave a suitable hollow to serve as a disposal site for inert material only.

All inert rubble and materials resulting from the demolition exercise will be disposed within the designated closure landfill facility located within the waste rock stockpile. Liquid or hazardous wastes will be disposed within appropriately licensed facilities off site.

All surface pipelines, power cables/lines and security fences will be removed and materials will be sold or otherwise disposed within waste rock stockpile. Where sub-surface pipelines are buried greater than one metre they will remain in situ if they cannot be economically salvaged, but will be appropriately drained, flushed and sealed (crimped or capped).

Plastic, pond liners will be cut, folded and buried in situ for belowground ponds or removed to the disposal site for aboveground ponds.

7.15.6.3 Clean Up and Remediation

The largest quantity of hazardous material (by volume) required on the site will be diesel, used for power generation and the mining equipment.

At closure, remaining chemicals and hydrocarbons will be returned to the supplier or sold to a third party. Waste chemicals, hydrocarbons and contaminated materials will be removed offsite for disposal at a licensed facility or remediated onsite prior to disposal on site.

It is recognised that some minor spillage of hydrocarbons (fuels and oils) will occur during operations and these will be remediated in-situ using bioremediation absorbents. Larger scale contaminated soil will be excavated and disposed of at the project’s industrial waste landfill (located within the waste rock stockpile) or as otherwise directed by regulatory authorities.

Remaining rubbish will be removed and disposed within the inert landfill.

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7.15.6.4 Vegetation Criteria Development

Target completion criteria relating to the establishment of vegetation communities have not yet been developed. Monitoring of multiple analogue sites in the three main plant communities to be referenced for rehabilitation purposes (ie Eucalyptus woodland, Salmon gum woodland and Rocky outcrop) will be conducted in spring 2009 for a range of plant diversity and ecosystem function parameters that can provide the starting point for the development of site specific vegetation completion criteria. A prime focus of the specific vegetation completion criteria will be indices to evaluate the successful establishment of keystone species. Keystone species are those that provide the greatest proportion of cover and are the most common within a plant community. The conceptual keystone species for the three main plant communities that WSA will focus on establishing at the Spotted Quoll project area when rehabilitating areas are shown in Table 32 below.

Table 32 Conceptual Keystone Species for Plant Communities

Plant Community Conceptual Keystone Likely Areas for Use Species1 in Rehabilitation Eucalyptus Woodland Eucalyptus flocktoniae, Haul Road Eucalyptus urna Eucalyptus salubris Eucalyptus calycogona Eucalyptus cylindrocarpa Eucalyptus eremophila Eucalyptus eremophila ssp eremophila Eucalyptus gracilis Eucalyptus kondininensis Eucalyptus sporadica Eucalyptus melanoxylon Eucalyptus polita Eucalyptus samonophloia Melaleuca adnata Grevillea obliquistigma Acacia eremophila, Acacia acuminate Eremophila densifolia Melaleuca cardiophylla Microcybe multiflora Dodonaea stenozyga Wilsonia humilis Acacia intricata Lepidosperma brunonianum Eucalyptus steedmanii (DRF) Eremophila racemosa (P4) Microcorys sp Forrestania (P4) Callitris preissii Salmon Gum Woodland Eucalyptus salmonophloia Mine site Eucalyptus annulata infrastructure Eucalyptus flocktoniae including ROM pad Melaleuca adnata and laydown area Melaleuca hamata Melaleuca pauperiflora subsp. pauperiflora Eremophila decipiens subsp. Decipiens Daviesia benthamii Dodonaea stenozyga

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Plant Community Conceptual Keystone Likely Areas for Use Species1 in Rehabilitation Phebalium tuberculosum Grevillea acuaria Lepidosperma brunonianum Eucalyptus steedmanii (DRF) Eremophila racemosa (P4) Stylidium sejunctum (P2) Rocky Outcrop Eucalyptus calycogona, Waste rock dumps Eucalyptus pileata Eremophila racemosa (P4) Melaleuca hamata Hakea subsulcata Acacia hemiteles Acacia steedmanii Atriplex stipitata Hibbertia pungens 1 Includes: All tree species Understory species structurally significant to the vegetation type Understory species providing habitat within the vegetation type Understory species recorded in greater than 25% of quadrats (these species yet to be confirmed) Analogue monitoring plots will be established in multiple locations at Spotted Quoll and other sites representative of these three vegetation types during spring 2009 and results used to further develop the list of conceptual keystone species.

7.15.6.5 Seed Collection and Revegetation

Following demolition of infrastructure and site clean up, the remaining disturbed sites will be regraded to re-establish any existing drainage lines (with the exception of the waste dump area).

During rehabilitation, previously stockpiled topsoil will be re-spread to a depth of 100 mm and deep ripped to a depth of 300 mm along the contour to reduce compaction and ensure cohesion between the topsoil, the subsoil and the disturbed land surface. Ripping will also provide niches where water, organic matter and seed can collect.

Stockpiled vegetation will be spread over the ripped surface to provide habitat for fauna. Seeding with species will be conducted to supplement the seed source within the topsoil, the re-spread vegetation and adjacent native vegetation. The species selected for the revegetation program will depend on the site-specific conditions (e.g. slope, drainage, soil conditions) and target end vegetation community.

Local provenance seed will be collected from the Forrestania area annually during the project life and stored for use in revegetation works. Collection and storage of seed will be conducted in accordance with FloraBank Guidelines, particularly Guideline 1 Native Seed Storage for Revegetation, Guideline 5 Seed Collection from Woody Plants for Local Revegetation and Guideline 10 Seed Collection Ranges for Vegetation.

Experienced contractors will be used to collect the seed to ensure the species being collected are:

• Identified correctly (ie species, subspecies, variety etc); • Collected appropriately to ensure physical and genetic quality; and • Collected from appropriate populations.

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Priority for seed collection will be given to keystone species. The seed will be viability tested prior to its use to enable an appropriate application rate to be determined. The seed will also undergo germination tests to ascertain how likely the species is to germinate.

WSA will also focus on the re-introduction of significant species into rehabilitation areas. The species will be incorporated within target vegetation communities as keystone species into rehabilitation areas. Information relating to the establishment of each significant species will be collated including the propagation strategy, habitation requirements, and target growing medium.

An overall application rate of 3 kg/ha will be applied to revegetated areas to promote a high initial establishment rate. It is important to have a high species abundancy (higher than baseline levels) within the first two years, as this allows for some decrease over time as cover grows higher and competition for available resources increases.

7.15.7 Suspension of Operations

Circumstances may eventuate that require a temporary suspension of mine operations, and entry into a “Care and Maintenance” period. Provisions in the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 govern care and maintenance periods.

The nature of a temporary suspension in operations is such that all rehabilitation and closure works would generally not be in a final state. In addition to the safety and access provisions, required in the regulations, the suspension plan would also need to address a range of environmental factors as listed in Table 33. The suspension plan would also need to cater for ongoing caretaker/maintenance functions that necessitate some continued provision of services such as power, water, communication and waste disposal at the site.

Table 33 Suspension Plan Criteria

Criteria Description Surface Water All disturbed areas will not be stabilised, so potential for erosion will remain. Areas with potential to erode to be made stable Weed Management Continue bi-annual weed inspections and control Hazardous Substances Removal of surplus quantities of hazardous materials Waste Management Empty all rubbish bins on site and remove bulk bins Empty out all oil/water separators, washdown bay sumps etc Reporting Annual compliance monitoring to continue

7.15.8 Post Closure Monitoring and Maintenance

Once the rehabilitation and closure work has been completed, a post-closure monitoring and maintenance program will be initiated, with the aim of confirming that the rehabilitation and closure has been effective and the closure criteria satisfied. In some cases this monitoring program will be a continuation or slight variation of those conducted during operations.

In general terms, post-closure monitoring will include:

• Visual inspections to assess if access to the pit void and other excavations has been effectively prevented and will not allow access to vehicles without heavy equipment;

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• Visual inspections to assess that there are no unplanned drainage lines developing, no undue erosion taking place, and no undermining of material by wind or water;

• Monitoring of surface water and groundwater (if necessary); and

• Monitoring of vegetation in rehabilitated areas.

7.15.8.1 General Maintenance

General maintenance at the site will include maintaining any infrastructure that remains on site including roads, signage and security fences. Fire breaks may also be required to be constructed on an annual basis.

7.15.8.2 Revegetation and Weed Management

Revegetation monitoring will be conducted during mining and continued on an annual basis for a minimum of five years after the closure of the site.

Permanent monitoring locations will be randomly established at the time of seeding to reduce sampling bias. Specific parameters will be monitored (Table 34) and trends should become evident within five years following direct seeding. A longer period of monitoring may be required to confirm patterns of sustainability and resilience in the form of viable seed banks and the ability of the ecosystem to recover in the event of fire or drought.

Rehabilitated areas that exhibit poor performance will require re-seeding or supplementary planting with tubestock. Research may have to be conducted on species that are not returning to the rehabilitation areas, particularly if the species are keystone species.

Weed management will be an ongoing concern, with inspections and control activities continuing for at least the first three years after closure or until such time as the revegetation on site is of sufficient quality and density to minimise the risk of weed infestations.

7.15.8.3 Surface and Groundwater Management

Surface water may need to be monitored and managed for several years after the mine has closed. Surface water may continue to be impacted by sediment until such time as rehabilitated areas are revegetated sufficiently to minimise erosion. Sedimentation ponds will require annual sediment removal, and cut-off drains maintained where necessary.

Groundwater may need to be monitored if it has been impacted by contaminants from operations at the site. It is likely that monitoring would be conducted either annually or bi-annually.

A groundwater and surface water contingency plan would need to be developed and approved by DEC in conjunction with the proposed sampling program. The contingency plan would outline the agreed plan of action to be followed in the event that groundwater or surface water exceeded accepted water quality standards.

The list of parameters to be monitored, the frequency of monitoring and the non-conformance contingency plan would be incorporated into a Post Closure Management Plan developed and approved by DEC prior to closing the facility. Table 34 lists the proposed monitoring programs and their duration.

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Table 34 Proposed Duration of Post Closure Monitoring and Inspection Programs at the Spotted Quoll Mine

Parameter Frequency Minimum Comments duration

Revegetation Annual 5 years Quadrat assessment of a representative monitoring number of sites (including undisturbed areas) within each vegetation type. Key indices for monitoring would include: • Total species richness • Total vegetation cover (%) • Abundance (density/ha) • Abundance of keystone species (density/ha) Fuel loading Annual 5 years To monitor fuel loading and consider appropriate management options Weed Inspection and 2 per year 5 years Until self sustaining ecosystem can be Control demonstrated General Site Annual 2 years Visual inspection of landforms and safety bunds Inspection for signs of erosion Groundwater Level Annual 3 years To monitor groundwater level rebound Groundwater 2 per year If required Will only be required if the beneficial use of Sampling groundwater has been compromised as a result of mining and associated activities at the site. Parameters to include pH, TDS and SWL as a minimum. Surface water 2 per year 2 years Until data trends indicate surface water is not Sampling impacting on the receiving environment Parameters to include pH, TDS, and TSS as a minimum. Additional parameters may be required if water is suspected of being contaminated (ie from contaminated land or acidic drainage).

7.15.8.4 Records and Reporting

Comprehensive records of the planning and implementation of all rehabilitation and closure works will be maintained for each rehabilitated area and will include:

• Data on control sites representing the pre-disturbance condition of each area (to provide a baseline against which the rehabilitation can be assessed);

• Information on the vegetation, topsoil and subsoil removal and storage techniques utilised;

• The extent and timing of each clearing activity;

• Details on the rehabilitation treatment(s), including earthworks, seed bed preparation, works, species used in the seeding program, seed pre-treatment and seeding methods;

• The results of rehabilitation monitoring programs; and

• The scope of any remedial work (such as re-ripping, re-seeding and weed control).

Whilst the Spotted Quoll Mine is still an operating facility, the results of monitoring and maintenance activities conducted during each reporting period will continue to be reported in an annual monitoring

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and compliance report that will be submitted to the DEC each year. Post closure, it is anticipated that WSA will continue to submit annual monitoring report as well as exception reports where necessary.

7.15.9 Environmental Outcome

The successful implementation of the management strategies outlined above should result in the site being returned quickly to a stable vegetated landscape.

WSA will prepare a detailed Decommissioning and Closure Plan (DCP) in 2009. The overall objective of preparing the DCP is to ensure that planning for mine closure commences in the early stages of project planning and is integrated with mine development planning, consistent with the Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council/Minerals Council of Australia’s Strategic Framework for Mine Closure.

The DCP will be reviewed periodically in light of results of rehabilitation research programs and changes to industry best practice standards as well as changes to the project during the project life.

Consultation with identified stakeholders will be conducted in relation to the closure of the Spotted Quoll Mine.

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8 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

8.1 Background

The EPA requires evidence of a satisfactory consultation mechanism that demonstrates consultation has been undertaken and that relevant environmental concerns have been addressed in the design and management of the proposed Spotted Quoll Mine.

A public consultation program was undertaken to consult with:

• State Government departments, agencies and organisations

• Local authorities and

• Special interest groups.

The consultation program was designed to:

• Inform the public about the proposed development of the mine

• Record potential concerns, issues and recommendations

• Aid in preparing the design and management of the proposed mine, ensuring that public concerns are addressed

• Provide feedback to stakeholders and

• Establish meaningful and ongoing dialogue.

The public consultation included:

• Provision of the Spotted Quoll Nickel Mining Project Concept Plan

• Provision of the Mining Proposal

• Provision of information brochure on the project

• Meetings with government authorities/agencies

• Site visits and surveys with Aboriginal Groups

• Site visits and meetings with special interest groups who received the Mining Proposal and information brochure

• Discussions and correspondence with stakeholders who had further questions or concerns following the presentation and provision of additional information.

• Issue of preliminary Draft EPS for comment

8.2 Consultation to Date

A detailed list of the individuals, organisations, groups and agencies that were consulted is summarised in Table 35.

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Table 35 Stakeholders Consulted about the Proposed Development of the Spotted Quoll Mine

Stakeholder Sector Organisations/Individuals

Federal Government and Regulatory • Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts Authorities

State Government and Regulatory • Environmental Protection Authority Authorities • Department of Environment and Conservation - Perth Office - Bunbury Office - Narrogin Regional Office - Merredin District Office • Department of Industry and Resources • Department of Water

Local Government • Shire of Kondinin • Shire of Lake Grace

Indigenous Groups • Ballardong (discrete peoples within the Noongar linguistic group and asserted ownership of, custodianship of and/or cultural interests in traditional knowledge concerning land within the Project Area) • Graeme Pellew Group (owners or custodians of traditional indigenous knowledge that may be relevant to the land within the Project Area)

Special Interest Groups • Conservation Council of Western Australia Inc. • Wildflower Society of Western Australia • Wilderness Society • Western Australian Naturalist Club of WA

8.2.1 Federal Government and Regulatory Authorities

8.2.1.1 Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts

The Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal was referred to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) by WSA. The project will be assessed on preliminary information. WSA is yet to provide the DEWHA with additional information requested.

8.2.2 State Government and Regulatory Authorities

8.2.2.1 Environmental Protection Authority

On the 8 September 2008, the EPA was mailed a copy of the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal. The EPA Chairman, after considering the information, advised that he considered a formal assessment set at the level of an EPS would be appropriate for the scale of such a project and environmental factors involved.

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On the 13 November 2008, Coffey Environments sought clarification on a number of issues from Helen Dagnell via email. The issues included the preparation of management plans and stygofauna monitoring. Ms Dagnell advised Coffey Environments on the 18 November 2008 that separate management plans did not need to be provided with the EPS as long as the management information was included in the EPS.

A subsequent meeting was held with Helen Dagnall and Ray Claudius on the 20 November 2008 to discuss timeframe of the EPS process.

8.2.2.2 Department of Environment and Conservation

A detailed listing of consultation with DEC staff is provided in Table 36.

Table 36 Listing of Consultation with DEC

Date Contact type Contact Person/s Issue (Branch)

18 July 2007 Site Visit Nisha Powell (EMB) Regional site familiarisation (Spotted Quoll not found so not visited specifically) and mine Wendy Thomson water disposal options (Kalgoorlie)

21 November Site Visit Sandra Thomas (EMB) Regional site familiarisation (Spotted Quoll 2007 not found so not visited specifically) David Joliffe (Merredin) Nicholas Woolfrey (EMB)

30 January 2008 Meeting Sandra Thomas (EMB) Discussed Declared Rare Flora management Nicholas Woolfrey (EMB)

30 April 2008 Meeting Keith Morris (Fauna) Discussed DEC’s Western Quoll regional monitoring program

16 May 2008 Meeting Sandra Thomas (EMB) Discussed Spotted Quoll project site fauna survey requirements Daniel Coffey (EMB)

27 June 2008 Site Visit Keith Morris (Fauna) Site visit to assess Western Quoll monitoring potential in the Forrestania region (including the proposed Spotted Quoll mine site)

12 September Courier Sandra Thomas (EMB) Provided a copy of the Spotted Quoll Mining 2008 Proposal

28 October 2008 Site Visit Daniel Hartnup Site familiarisation tour (Bunbury) Neville Welsh (Bunbury) Ben Lullfitz (Merredin)

3 November 2008 Meeting Sandra Thomas (EMB) Discussed Stygofauna sampling requirements Daniel Coffey (EMB)

12 November Meeting Keith Morris (Fauna) Discussed DEC’s Western Quoll regional 2008 monitoring program and timeframe for

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Date Contact type Contact Person/s Issue (Branch) implementation

17 December Email Daniel Coffey (EMB) Provided DEC with a copy of information 2008 brochure on the project (Appendix Z). Nicholas Woolfrey Requested feedback and extended invitation (EMB) for a meeting. Norm Caporn (EMB) Advised by Daniel Coffey on the 18th December 2008, that consultation to date has been acceptable and therefore a meeting was not required.

8.2.2.3 Department of Industry and Resources

Rosemarie deBarie and Matt Dowling flown to site on the 18 July 2007 to discuss regional mine water disposal issues. Rosemarie deBarie also attended site inspection on 17 June 2008.

Matt Dowling undertook Clearing permit audit on 29 October 2008.

8.2.2.4 Department of Water

WSA has applied for and received licences under the provisions of section 26D of the RIWI Act to construct or alter wells for the Spotted Quoll project site.

WSA has also requested and received information regarding the Kondinin-Ravensthorpe Combined- Fracture Rock West - Fractured Rock aquifer resource allocation from Amy Cowdell at the Department of Water Albany office.

8.2.3 Local Government

8.2.3.1 Shire of Kondinin

A copy of the Mining Proposal for the Spotted Quoll was sent to the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Kondinin on the 8 September 2008.

The Chief Executive Officer was contacted on the 10 December 2008 to ascertain if the Shire would like further information on the proposal. The CEO indicated that the Shire had no issue with the proposed mining proposal and would not need any subsequent information nor would like to meet to discuss the proposal further. Confirmation of the position of the Shire was sought by Coffey Environments in emails dated 11 December 2008 and 5 January 2009. No response was received to either email.

8.2.3.2 Shire of Lake Grace

A copy of the Mining Proposal for the Spotted Quoll was sent to the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Lake Grace on the 8th September 2008. No response was received from the Shire. The Shire was originally contacted because Stage 2 expansion of the Mossco Evaporation Ponds was included as part of the Mining Proposal, and these ponds are located within the Shire’s boundary. Since that time, the expansion of the ponds has been placed on hold and is no longer considered part of the Spotted Quoll project. As such, follow up consultation with the Shire was not undertaken.

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8.2.4 Indigenous Groups

8.2.4.1 Ballardong People

The South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council (SWALSC) contacted WSA in a letter dated 24 October 2008 indicating they were contacted by the Department of Industry and Resources in relation to an application made by WSA to Clear Vegetation on Mining Leases 77/545 and 77/583. The letter indicated a concern that heritage issues may not have been addressed and that any Aboriginal sites or areas of significance may be adversely affected if the proposal permit is issued without a heritage survey being conducted. The letter also indicated that the area of the proposed mine is a Ballardong native title claim area (WAD6181/98).

Representatives of the Ballardong People attended ethnographic and heritage surveys at the project area on the 5 and 6 December 2008.

SWALSC were contacted by phone on the 10 December 2008. A message was left on the answering service of Simon Blackshield (In-House Counsel) requesting he contact Coffey Environments if the SWALSC (on behalf of the Ballardong) would like further information on the proposed mining project, or if they had any concerns about any environmental issues. No response was received.

8.2.4.2 Graeme Pellew Group

On the 4 November 2008, WSA had a meeting with Graeme Pellew and provided a copy of the Mining Proposal and requested feedback on any issues. Coffey Environments contacted Mr Pellew on 10 December 2008 by phone. A meeting was arranged for 19 December 2008 and was cancelled by Mr Pellew on 18 December 2008. A copy of the summary information on the Project (Appendix Z) was couriered to Mr Pellew on 19 December 2008. A request for a meeting was left with Mr Pellew on his mobile phone on 7 January 2009. A letter was couriered to Mr Pellew on 9 January 2009 requesting feedback by 16 January 2009. No response was received. Follow up phone calls were made on 16 January 2009 and 19 January 2009, and messages left on voicemail on both occasions, reminding Mr Pellew of the timeframe for comments. No response was received to either message.

Representatives of the Graeme Pellew Group attended ethnographic and heritage surveys at the project area on 15 and 16 December 2008.

8.2.5 Special Interest Groups

The Conservation Council of Western Australia, Wildflower Society of WA, Western Australian Naturalists’ Club (Inc.) and the Wilderness Society were identified as stakeholders having an interest in the key environmental factors associated with the Spotted Quoll Mining proposal.

The Conservation Council of Western Australia, Wildflower Society of WA and the Wilderness Society were provided a copy of the Spotted Quoll Nickel Mining Project Concept Plan on 22 May 2008. Representatives from these organisations were invited to fly to site for a site familiarisation tour and to discuss regional mine water disposal options. Brian Moyle (Wildflower Society of WA) and Tim Nichol (Conservation Council of WA) flew to site on 18 July 2008. The Wilderness Society were unable to attend site visits arranged on 7 July 2008 or 18 July 2008.

On 11 December 2008, the Conservation Council of Western Australia, Wildflower Society of WA, Western Australian Naturalists’ Club (Inc.) and the Wilderness Society were contacted by telephone and emailed an information brochure on the project proposal.

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Each of the organisations was invited to discuss the project and attend a meeting with WSA. WSA met with representatives from the Conservation Council of Western Australia, Wildflower Society of WA, and the Wilderness Society on Tuesday December 16. Additional information on the existing environment, potential environmental impacts and proposed environmental management/mitigation strategies was provided at the meeting (see Appendix Z). No written comments were received from any of the organisations in response to the information provided, however minutes were taken of the meeting (Appendix AA).

The Western Australian Naturalists’ Club did not reply to the original phone message (left on the 11 December 2008) until 17 December 2008. The information brochure (same as that provided to the Conservation Council of Western Australia, Wildflower Society of WA, and the Wilderness Society on 16 December 2008) was emailed to the Western Australian Naturalists’ Club on 18 December 2008. On 13 January 2009, a request was made by the Western Australian Naturalists’ Club for copies of technical reports related to the project. Copies of all technical reports related to flora and fauna were couriered to the Western Australian Naturalists’ Club on the same day.

On the 27 January 2009, an email was received from a member of the Western Australian Naturalists’ Club stating that they do not wish to comment at this time and will provide comments when they receive a copy of the draft EPS.

8.3 Initial Stakeholder Feedback

The environmental issues raised during the stakeholder consultation program are listed in Table 37.

Table 37 Environmental Issues/Comments Raised During Stakeholder Consultations

Stakeholder Issue Where addressed in the EPS

EPASU Impact to groundwater from acid rock drainage 4.2.3

EPASU Impact to stygofauna/troglofauna due to dewatering 5.7.7

EPASU Impacts to vegetation, flora and fauna habitat due to clearing and weeds 7.2.3

EPASU Direct impact to fauna 7.3.3

DEC In consideration of extensive fauna surveys conducted by WSA to date and N/A similarities with vegetation communities at Spotted Quoll, a desktop review of general fauna assemblages at the Spotted Quoll Mine based on studies by Biota will be adequate in conjunction with targeted assessments of fauna of conservation significance.

DEC Targeted fauna assessments should be conducted for the following species: 5.7 • Malleefowl • Carnaby’s Cockatoo • Western Quoll • Short Range Endemics • Subterranean fauna (particularly Stygofauna) • Western Inland Rosella

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Stakeholder Issue Where addressed in the EPS

DEC (EMB) DEC has no further comment on the Spotted Quoll Troglofauna Risk 5.7.7 Assessment We have received several briefings from Western Areas and consider that DEC (EMB) N/A level consultation acceptable at this point in the process (18 December 2008) Conservation Have greenhouse emissions from the proposed mine been considered? 7.8 Council of WA

Conservation Need to consider the new mine in context of the cumulative impacts and 2.6 Council of WA closure of the whole Western Areas mining operation. The potential for backfilling pits as new pits are opened, or backfilling of pits at end of mine life, is an important consideration. Pit backfill should be maximised.

Conservation Consideration of a design and construction plan for the waste rock dump 2.6 Council of WA which would allow the waste rock dumps to be constructed with the final end design in mind, taking into account aspects such as slope stability, dump design, use of mulch and/or rock for erosion control and creating an appropriate substrate for plant growth.

Conservation The proposed final landform - has consideration been given concave design or 2.6 Council of WA is the traditional bench and berm process going to be followed?

Conservation Short Range Endemics – outcomes of the genetic testing. 5.4.4 Council of WA

Conservation Management of saline water, particularly when used for dust suppression. 2.9.5 & 7.2.3 Council of WA Decommissioning, closure and post closure planning/management information Wildflower 2.11 & 2.12 should be provided. Consideration should be given to setting appropriate Society of WA completion criteria that can be audited. Definition of auditable completion criteria should be part of the closure / rehab design that the company is working towards. Consideration should be given to how recalcitrant species will be introduced to Wildflower 2.12.2 areas to be rehabilitated. Society of WA Have all species been accounted for in flora surveys? Wildflower 4.6.1 & 4.6.3 Society of WA When considering species to be used in rehabilitation consideration should be Wilderness 2.11.4, 2.11.5 given to the diversity of Eucalyptus in the region a result of hybridisation of Society of WA & 2.12.2 species. Local provenance seed should be used, if not scientific testing is appropriate to ensure that genetic diversity within species across the landscape is not being compromised by the artificial movement of seeds. Evidence suggests that there is potential for great diversity within species across the landscape in the Great Western Woodland.

Wilderness The definition of ‘local provenance’ is difficult to ascertain without undertaking 2.11.7 Society of WA research, Alex Watson should be able to assist in finding the appropriate people to give advice on this subject. Wilderness Progressive rehabilitation should be undertaken at the site 2.11.4 Society of WA

Wilderness Inaccuracies in the Agricultural Department report on vegetation community Report not Society of WA clearing should be considered referred to in the EPS

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8.4 Draft EPS Stakeholder Feedback A draft copy of the EPS document was sent to the following key stakeholders for comment on 16 February 2009:

• Wildflower Society of WA (Brain Moyle) • Conservation Council of WA (Tim Nicol) • Wilderness Society of WA (Peter Robertson) • Western Australian Naturalists’ Club (Maureen Gardner) • Graeme Pellew (Graeme Pellew Group)

A summary of comments on the draft EPS is provided in Table 38. Table 38 Environmental Issues/Comments Raised From Draft EPS

Stakeholder Issue WSA Response

Wildflower Society of WA TBA* TBA*

Conservation Council of TBA* TBA* WA

Wilderness Society of WA TBA* TBA*

Western Australian TBA* TBA* Naturalists’ Club

Graeme Pellew Group TBA* TBA*

* To be advised

8.5 Future Consultation

WSA will continue to engage with identified key stakeholders throughout the life of the project, particularly in relation to mine decommissioning and site rehabilitation.

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9 SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT

The Western Australian Government has released a Sustainability Strategy for Western Australia: Hope for the Future: the Western Australian State Sustainability Strategy (Government of Western Australia, 2003). The strategy sets out a vision for the State’s mining industry that includes some key future actions:

• Work towards assessment of projects using sustainability criteria;

• Foster local communities involvement (particularly Aboriginal communities, pastoralists and local shires);

• Establish a transparent process to enable community awareness of the day-to-day regulatory system for the resources industry; and

• Implement strategies that support the use of local employment in mining ventures, particularly using regional centres and employment hubs and encourage mining companies to maximise their purchasing of goods and services within the regions.

Subsequent to the release of the Western Australian State Sustainability Strategy, the EPA published a revised position statement Towards Sustainability (2004), which attempts to describe appropriate approaches to this complex and evolving subject in WA, where mining, petroleum and agriculture are mainstays of our economy and underpin the standard of living generally enjoyed by West Australians.

Following changes to the Environmental Protection Act, the EPA now requires all formal environmental impact assessments to address the principals of sustainability. The application of the principles of sustainability to the Spotted Quoll Mining Project is summarised in Table 39.

While the Spotted Quoll Mining Project involves the mining of a finite resource, the project will be planned, constructed, operated and decommissioned in a manner that meets the principles of sustainability. WSA, in managing impacts across the quadruple bottom line of Social Capital, Economic Wealth, Environmental Assets and Corporate Governance, will address sustainability principles in number of ways including:

• Established sustainability principles in purchasing and contracting;

• Ensuring efficient energy and water use;

• Minimising waste and encouraging recycling; and

• Providing for industry and community partnerships.

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Table 39 Application of the Principles of Sustainability to the Spotted Quoll Mining Project

Relevant Principle If yes, consideration Yes/No THE PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE No Sufficient knowledge to Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full address potential scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing environmental impacts measures to prevent environmental degradation. In application of this precautionary principle, decisions should be guided by: • Careful evaluation to avoid, where practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment; and • An assessment of the risk-weighed consequences of various options. THE PRINCIPLE OF INTER-GENERATIONAL EQUITY Yes Emissions not long term. The present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and Greenhouse emissions productivity of the environment is maintained and enhanced for the insignificant with respect to benefit of future generations. Guidance 12 THE PRINCIPLE OF THE CONSERVATION OF BIOLOGICAL Yes Project will result in DIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL INTEGRITY disturbance of The conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity should approximately 140 ha. be a fundamental consideration Flora and Fauna surveys undertaken. Commitment to returning ecosystem function to as near as pre-mining condition as practicable. PRINCIPLES RELATING TO IMPROVED VALUATION, PRICING Yes Triple bottom line AND INCENTIVE MECHANISMS accounting employed by • Environmental factors should be included in the valuation of WSA. assets and services; Commitment to rehabilitate • The polluter pays principle – those who generate pollution impacts from operations at and waste should bear the cost of containment, avoidance the site. and abatement • The user of goods and services should pay prices based on the life cycle of providing goods and services, including the use of natural resources and assets and the ultimate disposal of any waste • Environmental goals, having been established, should be pursued in the most effective way, by establishing incentive structures, including market mechanisms, which enable those best placed to maximise benefits and/or minimise costs to develop their own solution and responses to environmental problems. THE PRINCIPLE OF WASTE MINIMISATION Yes Addressed in the EPS All reasonable and practicable measures should be taken to minimise the generation of waste and its discharge to the environment.

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10 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS

Table 40 provides a summary of WSA’s management commitments for the Spotted Quoll Mining Project. These commitments will be refined in consultation with the administering authority during the assessment and subsequent implementation of the proposal.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing

1 Soil and Landform • Oxidised basalt will be mixed with other lithologies which have high acid neutralisation During and after capacity to reduce the risk of acid rock drainage. operations • Groundwater and surface runoff drainage from the waste rock dump will be regularly monitored for key acid indicating parameters. • In the event that acid drainage is detected in run-off, the run-off will be diverted away from natural drainage lines and a strategy developed to manage drainage. • Two self-bunded bulk fuel tanks each of 100 kL capacity will be installed. The fuel filling location will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank. • All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110% of the volume of the largest container stored and 25% of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored. • Oily runoff will be collected and treat through appropriately designed and sized oil/water separators. Oil/water separators will be regularly cleaned and maintained. • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and will be, removed offsite by licensed contractor. • If inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon of hypersaline water occurs the spill will be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. Hydrocarbon contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site. Soil impacted by saline water will be buried in the waste rock dump. • Used oils, greases and lubricants will be stored in designated tanks in a bunded area constructed in accordance with Australian Standard 1940. • Staff and contractors will be trained in appropriate incident/emergency response procedures.

2 Groundwater WSA will ensure groundwater • An application will be made to the Department of Water for a licence to abstract a abstraction will not impact on maximum of 5.5 GL/annum from the Kondinin-Ravensthorpe Combined-Fractured Rock neighbouring users of groundwater West- Fractured Rock Aquifer. • Groundwater level monitoring will be undertaken at the monitoring bores at the project site once dewatering activities commence. • Results of monitoring will be reported to the DEC on an annual basis. Minimise impact on groundwater • Oxidised basalt will be mixed with other lithologies which have high acid neutralisation During and after quality capacity to reduce the risk of acid rock drainage. operations • Groundwater and surface runoff drainage from the waste rock dump will be regularly monitored for key acid indicating parameters. • In the event that acid drainage is detected in run-off, the run-off will be diverted away from natural drainage lines and a strategy developed to manage the drainage. • Two self-bunded bulk fuel tanks each of 100 kL capacity will be installed. The fuel filling location will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing collection tank. • All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110% of the volume of the largest container stored and 25% of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored. • Oily runoff will be collected and treated through appropriately designed and sized oil/water separators. Oil/water separators will be regularly cleaned and maintained. • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and will be removed offsite by licensed contractor. • If inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon occurs the spill will be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. The contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site. • Used oils, greases and lubricants will be stored in designated tanks in a bunded area constructed in accordance with Australian Standard 1940. • Staff will be trained in appropriate incident/emergency response procedures. 3 Surface Water WSA will minimise impacts on • Surface water management structures will be designed and constructed to minimise During and after surface water hydrology and erosion. operations quality • Diversion drains will be constructed to ensure non impacted runoff water re-enters natural drainage lines at a velocity and depth that can be accommodated by the natural stream line without increased scouring. • Regular visual monitoring will be undertaken of the diversion channels and downstream drainage lines, and the condition of vegetation in the diversion channels. Should substantial erosion occur, the cause of the erosion will be identified, erosion/deposition areas rehabilitated as appropriate, and measures implemented to prevent further erosion. At closure, disturbed areas will be stabilised and revegetated to minimise erosion potential. • Uncontaminated stormwater will be permitted to infiltrate into the ground or be released to the environment in a controlled manner. • Restricted washdown of mobile equipment or vehicles will be conducted in the workshop washdown bay. Contaminated washdown water will be passed through the oil water separator to remove hydrocarbons and will then be recycled if possible. • The workshop floor will be concreted suitable for the vehicle loads and will have a work trench for maintenance access under the vehicles. The surface for the workshop yard will be levelled and V-drains provided for rainwater diversion where required. • Drainage and water collection structures will be inspected on a regular basis and properly maintained. • A toe drain will be installed around the base of the waste rock dump to capture and contain any permeate. • The dewatering pipeline from Spotted Quoll to McMahon Pit/Settling Pond will be buried and fitted with a telemetry-based leak detection system in the form of a flow meter and transmitter at each end of the pipeline. • Bulk quantities (in excess of 200L in aggregate) of liquid chemicals stored onsite will be stored in bunded areas designed to appropriate Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids, as required by the DMP.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing • Hazardous substances that are liquid shall be stored in a fire resistant housing and bunded. Where necessary this will be weatherproof. • Spillages will be reported and remediated in line with WSA Incident reporting procedures. • All staff and contractors on the mining site shall be trained as required in the hazards and safe work procedures associated with the stored hazardous substances in their work area and procedures to follow in the event of an emergency. Job safety analysis will be undertaken prior to commencing any works that are potentially hazardous. • As required by legislation the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response team trained in Emergency Response which includes the handling of incident involving hazardous materials both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an incident involving hazardous materials. • All fuel tanks and bunded areas will be inspected at least weekly for evidence of spills or leakage in accordance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and associated Regulations. • All oil collection pits, drainage systems and bunded areas will be inspected at least weekly to ensure these are maintained and operated appropriately, and that excess stormwater that is contaminated is pumped out and removed from the site by a licensed contractor. • Waste characterisation indicates there is a low potential for acid drainage. Any drainage from the waste rock dump will be monitored and in the event that acid drainage is detected, management strategies will be implemented. 4 Vegetation and Flora WSA will monitor the health of the • Install dust deposition gauges at each DRF population that has some risk of being DRF on Mining Tenements 77/583 adversely impacted by dust. and 77/545 • Health surveys will be conducted on DRF and Priority species populations adjacent to the site operations and alongside haul roads and other dusty locations. • In the event that monitoring demonstrates adverse trends in vegetation health from dust, undertake “wash down” of any DRF populations affected, including a 5m buffer area around the populations. WSA will minimise disturbance to Duration of the • Ensuring all staff and contractors attend a compulsory environmental induction advise of vegetation, particularly DRF and environmental management responsibilities (including DRF management) and to raise the operation and Priority species awareness about the vegetation and flora at the site and the habitat it provides for fauna. post mining Permit to Clear procedures will also be communication at the induction. • WSA personnel will provide information to construction and operations staff at toolbox meetings as well as regular (bi-monthly) presentations at site meetings. In particular photos and details about Eucalyptus steedmanii and Priority 4 species will be provided to assist in identification of the species in the field. Information about the known locations of the species, species management and incidents will be provided to staff and contractors. • Create exclusion zones with fencing and signage around the DRF populations of Eucalyptus steedmanii and prohibit all staff and contractors from entering this area without permission of the WSA environmental staff. • Supervision of vegetation clearing activities by the Environmental staff.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing

• Restriction on the construction of any access tracks adjacent to any of Eucalyptus steedmanii populations. • Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb vegetation. • A ‘Permit to Take DRF in Management Program’ will be obtained from the DEC prior to development of the project to cover the unlikely event that there is accidental or inadvertent taking of individuals of E. steedmanii. • Limiting clearing of vegetation to the minimum necessary to implement the project. This will be achieved using the Western Areas NL internal “Permit to Clear” procedures. • Clearly mark areas to be cleared prior to clearing commencing so that over-clearing will be avoided. • Ground truth the Eucalyptus Woodland along the proposed haul road to confirm or otherwise the presence of Stylidium sejunctum. If present, assess options for re- transplantation of the species. • Collect and correctly stockpile vegetative material and topsoil for later use at selected sites. • Progressively rehabilitate completed areas as soon as practicable. • Only use local native plant species for rehabilitation. • Use only local provenance seed in rehabilitation activities WSA will minimise the risk of • Staff and contractors will be made aware of the potential weed species in the area during During and after introduction and spread of weeds the site induction and advised to report any weed establishment to the WSA Environment operations on Mining Tenements 77/583 and department. 77/545 • Conduct weed monitoring on a quarterly basis on all tenements associated with the Spotted Quoll project. • If a particular weed species infestation is identified, targeted management measures will be developed as appropriate. • Application of hygiene measures such as equipment and vehicle blowdown prior to accessing project will be used. WSA will minimise the impact of • Vegetation impacts due to construction dust will be minimised through the use of dribble During and after dust on DRF bars on water carts on all high traffic areas. operations • Monitoring of local climatic conditions to determine optimal blasting times when prevailing winds will blow away dust from known locations of DRF. • Restriction of vehicle speeds in high risk dust generation areas. • Stabilisation of dust on topsoil stockpiles or other earthen stockpiles with salvaged vegetation or stabilising emulsion. • Dust deposition gauges will be installed at each Eucalyptus steedmanii population that is at a greater risk of being adversely impacted (ie those adjacent to the haul road and the population to the south of the pit) and at control locations. The final locations of dust deposition gauges will be decided in consultation with DEC and the results forwarded to DEC on an annual basis.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing • Weekly visual assessments of the populations located adjacent to the haul road and mining operations to detect any potential changes in plant health. • If adverse trends in the health of adjacent DRF populations are noted that can be attributed to dust deposition then “washing down” of affected plants may be undertaken using potable water to remove deposited dust. • Pre-emptive actions will be undertaken prior to construction of the project through collection of seed from DRF populations located in the vicinity of the project area for storage in the DEC’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Collections will be guided by the DEC in relation to timing, collection technique and required documentation. • Propagation of replacement plants (via direct seeding or planting of tubestock) from seed collected from the affected population and implementation of E. steedmanii re- establishment or re-location program. This action is to be guided by the DEC. WSA will minimise the risk of • Designing and constructing access and haul roads to capture and contain water used in Duration of the impact of saline water in DRF dust suppression. operation • Use of dribble bars on water carts to ensure overspray does not occur. Due to the road design and the proposed management practices (which have been successful at WSA’s adjacent operations), no environmental impact on vegetation from the use of saline water for dust suppression is expected. • Ensuring the pipeline running between Spotted Quoll and Flying Fox is buried or trenched, with appropriate leak detection system installed. • Ensuring that two pumps are maintained in good working order for use at the Settling Pond (to pump water to the McMahon Pit) at all times. • Ensuring sufficient contingency (secondary containment) is available in the unlikely event that the settling pond fills to capacity. • Monitoring roadside vegetation health for direct signs of saline water run-off or overspray such as white salt residue, stem and foliage disfigurement, reduced growth, and plant death. WSA will minimise the risk of fire • Firebreaks will be constructed and maintained on the project area in accordance with Duration of the impacting DRF legislative requirements. operation • Undertake annual fuel-loading assessments on WSA tenements and consider appropriate management options in consultation with DEC and FESA. • Company buildings and fixed assets will be designed and constructed, wherever possible, of materials which will withstand fires. • The Construction and Mine Managers will require the highest standards of “housekeeping” around all buildings and built infrastructure, especially fuel storage areas. • All mine site personnel will attend an initial site induction which will inform all personnel on site about fire awareness and fire response. • Staff and contractors will complete a job safety analysis prior to conducting any potentially hazardous works onsite including welding, cutting or grinding activities and other activities which have potential to ignite a fire. • Weekly safety meeting will be undertaken onsite during which information sessions will be held to refresh fire awareness within the workforce. • As required by legislation the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing Team trained in Emergency Response which includes the handling of incident involving fire both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an incident involving fire. • Fire protection will be by use of hand held extinguishers within buildings and equipment. A fire protection trailer will be located at Spotted Quoll site that will have fire hoses, a 900- litre water container and a fire pump. A mobile fire and emergency truck which is equipped with a 2000L tank, 2 fast attack hose reels and BIC capability is also available for use in the event of a fire. This is garaged at the Flying Fox mine, 6kms to the north of Spotted Quoll. • Flammable substances will be stored and used in compliance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. • All mining equipment and generating sets will be equipped with fire extinguishers to minimise the risk of fire from site operations. • Periodic fire control training will be undertaken for all personnel on site on the proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation of buildings in case of fire and emergency muster points. • All vehicles will be fitted with two-way radios that can also be used in an emergency situation. • Smoking will only be permitted in designated areas around the mine site. • “Hot work” is any metal-on-metal work, such as welding and grinding which can generate sparks and start fires. No hot work may be carried out on the mine site without a permit issued by a person authorised by the Construction or Mine Manager. • The Construction Manager (during the construction phase) and then the Mine Manager will be responsible for ensuring that a Fire and Emergency Response Plan is prepared for the site and that it is implemented, tested with practice drills, and reviewed and updated annually, or as required during the year in the event of changes to personnel or in response to a fire. • Fire management monitoring will be undertaken by WSA throughout the duration of the project, which will mainly include: - Conducting a baseline fire risks study prior to the commencement of project to determine the background levels of potential fire risks; and - Public bushfire danger warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology will be used to predict the level of bushfire risk within the Project Area. Appropriate response strategies (for example issue of “hot work” permits may be suspended during periods of extreme fire danger) will be developed accordingly. • Fire management monitoring requirements will be reviewed after the initial 12 months of operation and adjusted if necessary. • All WSA employees and contractors will be required to report any potential fire risks to the site manager via their supervisor. • All records of fire management monitoring kept in accordance with this plan will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Review, which will be submitted to the Department of Mines and Petroleum and DEC. • In addition, pre-emptive actions will be undertaken prior to construction of the project

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing through collection of seed from DRF populations located in the vicinity of the project area for storage in the DEC’s Threatened Flora Seed Centre. Collections will be guided by the DEC in relation to timing, collection technique and required documentation; • Propagation of replacement plants (via direct seeding or planting of tubestock) from seed collected from the affected population and implementation of a E. steedmanii re- establishment or re-location program. This action is to be guided by the DEC.

5 Fauna WSA will minimise the area of • Ensuring all staff and contractors attend the induction to raise the awareness about the Duration of the habitat cleared to a practicable conservation of fauna (particularly rare, threatened or vulnerable fauna) and their habitats. operation minimum • Limiting clearing of vegetation to the minimum necessary to implement the project. This will be achieved using the Western Areas NL internal “Permit to Clear” procedures. • Restricting traffic to established roads and parking areas so as not to disturb fauna habitat. • Other initiatives will be trialled in an effort to minimise impact on fauna. For example, undertaking clearing using a “from the inside out” approach may increase the ability of animals to move beyond the clearing envelope. • Clearing of large hollow bearing trees will be avoided wherever possible. It should be noted that Salmon Gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) woodlands comprise the preferred nesting habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo. • Erecting signs on haulage and access roads to create awareness of Malleefowl in the area. • Undertaking searches within 100m of any new project disturbance footprint to determine if active Malleefowl mounds are present. If any active mounds are located, these will be avoided wherever possible.

WSA will take all practicable • Trapping and relocation of Chuditch prior to vegetation clearance. Trapping and During and after precautions to minimise fauna relocation will occur outside breeding periods to ensure the maximum chance of trapping operations mortality the fauna and to ensure that young are not left stranded in the den. • Direct contact with fauna will be avoided whenever possible. • Speed restrictions on haul and access roads. • Egress ramps will be provided in pits, trenches and ponds to enable trapped wildlife to escape. • Restrictions on bringing pets, firearms, or traps into the project area. WSA will minimise the risk of • Restrict pets, firearms, or traps on the project area. During and after

introduction and spread of feral • Ensure all domestic waste at the mines site is covered regularly so as to not attract feral or operations animals on Mining Tenements native animals. 77/583 and 77/545 • Implement an annual feral animal trapping and baiting program on the mining leases. • Continue to support the existing wild dog control program currently undertaken in the area by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Conservation.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing

WSA will minimise impacts on • Prior to the commencement of excavation, shallow cut-off drains will be formed as During and after fauna by changes in surface required around the pit and waste rock dump to intercept any clean run-off and direct it to operations hydrology natural water courses before it reaches the disturbed working areas. These drains will be maintained and modified as necessary as mining progresses. • Regular visual monitoring will be undertaken of the diversion channels and downstream drainage lines, and the condition of vegetation in the diversion channels. • A suitably sized toe drain will be installed around the base of the waste rock dump to collect any permeate.

Minimise impacts on fauna from • Any drainage from the waste rock dump will be regularly monitored for key acid indicating Duration of the ARD potential parameters. operation • In the event that acid drainage is detected in run-off, the run-off will be diverted away from natural drainage lines and a strategy developed to treat drainage to increase pH and remove metals.

WSA will minimise the impacts of • Firebreaks will be constructed and maintained on the project area in accordance with Duration of the fire on fauna legislative requirements. operation • Fuel loads will be monitored on WSA tenements and managed where necessary. • Company buildings and fixed assets will be designed and constructed, wherever possible, of materials which will withstand fires. • The Construction and Mine Managers will require the highest standards of “housekeeping” around all buildings and built infrastructure, especially fuel storage areas. • Mine site personnel will be trained in fire prevention and fire suppression in both initial site induction and periodical onsite training, which will inform all personnel on site about fire awareness before undertaking welding, cutting or grinding activities and other activities which have potential to ignite the fire. • There will be no central reticulated fire system at Spotted Quoll project site. Fire protection will be by use of hand held extinguishers within buildings and equipment. A fire protection trailer will be located at Spotted Quoll site that will have fire hoses, a 900-litre water container and a fire pump. A mobile fire and emergency truck which is equipped with a 2000L tank, 2 fast attack hose reels and BIC capability is also available for use in the event of a fire. This is garaged at the Flying Fox mine, 6kms to the north of Spotted Quoll. • Flammable substances will be stored and used in compliance with the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and Australian Standard AS 1940-1993 for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. • All mining equipment and generating sets will be equipped with fire extinguishers to minimise the risk of fire from site operations. • Periodic fire control training will be undertaken for all personnel on site on the proper use of fire extinguishers, evacuation of buildings in case of fire and emergency muster points. • All vehicles will be fitted with two-way radios that can also be used in an emergency situation. • Smoking will not be permitted in any vehicle on the mine site. • “Hot work” is any metal-on-metal work, such as welding and grinding which can generate

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing sparks and start fires. No hot work may be carried out on the mine site without a permit issued by a person authorised by the Construction or Mine Manager. • The Construction Manager (during the construction phase) and then the Mine Manager will be responsible for ensuring that a Fire Response Plan is prepared for the site and that it is implemented, tested with practice drills, and reviewed and updated annually, or as required during the year in the event of changes to personnel or in response to a fire. • Fire management monitoring will be undertaken by WSA throughout the duration of the project, which will mainly include: - Conducting a baseline fire risks study prior to the commencement of project to determine the background levels of potential fire risks; - Public bushfire danger warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology will be used to predict the level of bushfire risk within the Project Area. Appropriate response strategies (for example issue of “hot work” permits may be suspended during periods of extreme fire danger) will be developed accordingly; • Fire management monitoring requirements will be reviewed after the initial 12 months of operation and adjusted if necessary. • All WSA employees and contractors will be required to report any potential fire risks to the site manager via their supervisor. • All records of fire management monitoring kept in accordance with this plan will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Review, which will be submitted to the Department of Mines and Petroleum and DEC. 6 WSA will actively implement dust • A ‘minimum clearing’ policy will be adopted to ensure that vegetation is cleared only when Pre mine Air Quality controls to minimise the creation of and where necessary. In instances where the clearing of extensive areas is unavoidable, establishment airborne dust additional dust suppression techniques may be employed to ensure stabilisation of the and duration of cleared surfaces. operation. • Unsealed roads will be watered by watercarts with dribble bars during dry, dusty periods; • Topsoil stripping will be scheduled to avoid periods of high winds. When necessary, stripping operations are to be suspended under particularly high wind conditions. • Where practicable, topsoil will be directly transferred to exposed surfaces requiring rehabilitation and covered with any salvaged vegetative material; • Vegetative cover on topsoil stockpiles will be encouraged. • Areas of the mining site that are disturbed during the construction phase and that will no longer be accessed during operation will be rehabilitated. Procedures will be implemented to prevent unauthorised access to rehabilitated areas to enhance the success of re-growth. • Methods for minimising the amount of dust produced by drilling and blasting operations will be investigated and applied where applicable. • Climatic conditions will be monitored and the data used to assist with planning blast events. Prevailing wind information will be utilised to, where possible, undertake blasting when wind directions are blowing away from the protected DRF areas in the immediate vicinity of the mining site. • Waste rock dumps will be designed so that the amount of exposed surface area is minimised, and the amount of active dumps are minimised, allowing for progressive

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing rehabilitation. • Vehicle speeds will be restricted on unsealed surfaces. It is proposed to restrict vehicle speeds on haul roads to 80 kilometres per hour. The speed limits around the mine operations and administration area will be limited to 40kms per hour. • Dust deposition gauges will also be installed at each E. steedmanii population that is at risk of being adversely impacted by dust. Results of the monitoring will be forwarded to the DEC on an annual basis in an Annual Environmental Report. • Dust emissions will be monitored on a regular basis through visual inspections of disturbed and open areas. • Inform all employees and contractors of the importance of reducing the creation of dust generating activities.

WSA will minimise greenhouse • Restricting to a practicable minimum, the area of native vegetation to be cleared. Duration of the gas emissions • Progressively rehabilitating operations redundant areas as soon as they become operation available. • Establishing the overhead power supply lines from the Flying Fox site as soon as possible to enable the usage of electricity supplied by Western Power grid, to minimise diesel generator requirements. • Locating the infrastructures within the mining site as close as possible to the proposed power supply line to reduce line losses onsite. • Ensuring that vehicles and equipment are regularly serviced and fitted with appropriate emission control equipment. • Integrating processes to minimise material handling such as direct replacement of mine materials where possible. • Monitoring energy consumption and calculating greenhouse gas emissions, which will enable additional sources of greenhouse gas emissions to be identified and extra measures employed to identify and assessing economically viable opportunities for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

7 Dangerous Good and WSA will manage and dispose of • Maintaining a manifest of dangerous goods and hazardous materials stored on the site, Duration of the Hazardous Waste wastes generated by the Spotted including their quantities and locations. The manifest will be audited regularly. operation Management Quoll operation in an appropriate manner • Hazardous materials will be stored in clearly marked dedicated storage facilities and will be clearly marked on all site maps. • Hazardous solid waste will be collected and disposed of into dedicated skip bins located on site. These bins will be emptied on a scheduled basis by a licensed waste contractor. Wastes will be disposed of to an approved waste disposal facility (e.g. Hyden, Kondinin or Perth) by the licensed contractor. • All explosives and toxic materials will be stored in fenced and locked site storage in accordance with the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994, the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995 and the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004.

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing

• Dry toxic and hazardous wastes that may be generated shall be exported to an approved disposal site (in accordance with the Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations, 2004) or as otherwise approved by the DEC. • Two 100 kL capacity self-bunded diesel fuel tanks will be located on a reinforced concrete hardstand area which drains to a collection tank. • Waste oil storage tank(s) and storage for bulk oil containers complete with oil reticulation air pumps, hoses, reels and fittings will be constructed at the project. All bulk storage areas will be bunded to allow containment of 110% of the volume of the largest container stored and 25% of the volume of the aggregate of containers stored. • Conducting regular audits and inspections of hazardous material use and storage. • All hazardous waste bins will be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good condition and are not corroded. • Waste oils, spent solvents, coolants and other chemical wastes will be collected in drums or holding tanks and removed offsite by licensed contractor. • If an inadvertent spillage of hydrocarbon occurs the spill would be contained as much as possible by the use of earthen bunds. The contaminated soil will be removed, collected and taken to the project bioremediation site. • In the event that used oils, greases and lubricants need to be stored on site, the storage would be in a designated tank in a bunded area in accordance with Australian Standard 1940. Any material stored on site will be transported periodically by a licensed contractor to an oil recycling facility. • Records will be kept of the disposal of any hazardous materials (including fuel and /or oil spills) including the volume and the method of disposal. • Septic tanks and associated above and below ground pipe work will be inspected (at least annually) to determine if leaks to the pipe work have occurred due to corrosion or other damage. • Staff and contractors will be trained as required regarding the handling, storage and use of hazardous materials in their work area. Emergency response procedures will also need to be included in this training.

• As required by legislation the Forrestania Nickel project has an Emergency Response team trained in Emergency Response which includes the handling of incidents involving hazardous materials both on the surface and underground. This team will be deployed where required in the event of an incident involving Hazardous Materials. • Personal protection equipment (i.e. gloves, plastic coveralls, safety glasses and self- contained respirators) need to be provided and ensure that all relative operators wear the appropriate equipment while handling hazardous materials. • Material Safety Data Sheets, which should be provided by the material manufacturer, will be clearly marked and located in all areas where hazardous materials are used or stored. • Staff shall be made aware of issues affecting hazardous materials management,

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing associated environmental impacts and be given opportunities to improve hazardous waste management procedures.

8 WSA will avoid any unnecessary • Including information in the site induction regarding the importance of cultural sensitivity, Duration of the Aboriginal Heritage disturbance to any indentified respect for land and protection of items of heritage significance. All employees and operation Aboriginal heritage sites contractors will be advised of the correct procedure to be followed in the case of any items of potential heritage significance being discovered during mining. • Comply with the requirements of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, including seeking advice from the Department of Indigenous Affairs in the event that any Aboriginal heritage sites are identified during the life of the project. 9 Noise and Vibration WSA will minimise any impacts of • Optimise the layout and schedules of mining activities; Duration of the noise and vibration on its staff and • Reduce the number of equipment items operating where practicable; operation contractors • Enclose noisy pumps such as skid mounted dewatering pumps; and • Compliance monitoring of noise levels at sensitive receivers will be undertaken in response to any complaints received.

10 Rehabilitation WSA will rehabilitate land • Reconstructed landforms and drainage lines are tied into undisturbed topography During and after disturbed by mining activities to • Restore original pathways of pre-mining drainage lines where practicable. operations restore pre-existing conditions as near as practicable • Ensure there are no active erosion rills greater than 10m x 0.1m. • Ensure maximum slope angles of 20° for waste rock dumps (to mimic natural angles of iron cap hills) and 8° for other areas. • Use native soils in areas to be revegetated. • Ensure embankments are constructed to enhance infiltration where there is a potential for overland water flow to create erosion problems. • Ensure all major drainage lines are designed for a 1:100 average reoccurrence interval (ARI). • All soils used for the upper soil profile will be from local stockpiled topsoil. • The minimum depth of upper soil profile will be 100mm. • Ensure there is no remaining plant or infrastructure that is not required for post- operational use. • Keystone species are to be returned to the rehabilitation areas as a priority – identify keystone species, include on seed list and undertake research if species are not returning to the rehabilitation areas. • Native seed used in rehabilitation is local provenance seed. 11 Reporting WSA will produce an Annual • Prepare an Annual Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Report Annually Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Report 12 EMS WSA will develop an • Develop an Environmental Policy. Prior to and environmental management • Implement a procedure to ensure all applicable legislative requirements are kept up to during operation system that is consistent with the

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Number Topic Commitment Actions to Achieve Commitment Timing elements of the AS/NZS date. ISO14001:2004 Environmental • Ensure staff has clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Management Systems – Ensue that all staff and contractors are appropriately trained in the area of environmental Requirements with Guidance for • management as it relates to their activities on site. Use • Develop and maintain appropriate environmental management plans, operating procedures and emergency response plans for application on site. • Monitor and audit environmental performance and the environmental management system. • Implement a process for management review of the environmental management system.

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11 REFERENCES

ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000). Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters, National Water Quality Management Strategy. Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, Canberra.

Australian Government (2008). Australian Natural Resources Atlas. http://www.anra.gov.au/ Accessed: 13/12/08.

Beard, J.S. (1981). Vegetation Survey of Western Australia. Sheet 7 – Swan, 1:1,000,000 Vegetation Series, Map and Explanatory Notes. University of Western Australia Press, Perth, Western Australia.

Bennelongia (2008). Troglofauna Occurrence at Western Areas. Letter prepared for Western Areas NL, November 2008.

Brearley, D. (2003). Developing completion criteria for Rehabilitation Areas on arid and Semi-Arid Mine Sites in Western Australia. PhD thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Western Australia.

Botanica Consulting (2008). Vegetation Survey of New Morning to Spotted Quoll Area within the Tenements M77/583 and M77/545. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, June 2008.

CALM (2001). A Biodiversity Audit of Western Australia's 53 Biogeographic Subregions in 2002. Department of Conservation and Land Management, Perth, Western Australia.

Central Mapping Authority (1986). 1:25,000 Newcastle Topographic Map 9130-3-N. Second Edition.

Chippendale, GM (1973). Eucalypts of the Western Australian goldfields (and the adjacent wheatbelt). Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra.

Department of Land and Water Conservation (DLWC). Water Data Services, Hunter Valley.

DEP. Department of Environmental Protection (2001). Development of Sampling and Analysis Programs. Department of Environmental Protection, Perth, Western Australia.

DoE. Department of Environment (2003). Assessment Levels for Soil, Sediment and Water. Department of Environment, Perth, Western Australia.

DoIR, Department of Industry and Resources (2006). Clearing Permit Decision Report – Permit Application No. 1249/1. Available from ftp://ftp.dec.wa.gov.au/Permit/1249.

DMP. Department of Mines and Petroleum (2008). DMP Bond Policy. Department of Mines and Petroleum, Perth, Western Australia.

EPA, Environmental Protection Authority (2002). Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection: Position Statement No. 3, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia. EPA, Environmental Protection Authority (2003). Consideration of subterranean fauna in groundwater and caves during impact assessment in Western Australia. Guidance Statement No. 54, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia. EPA, Environmental Protection Authority (2004). Guidance for the Assessment of Terrestrial Factors: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia, Guidance Statement No. 51, June 2004, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia.

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EPA, Environmental Protection Authority (2004a). EPA Position Statement No. 7 (Principles of Environmental Protection). Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia. Environmental Protection Authority (2007). : Sampling methods and survey considerations for subterranean fauna in Western Australia. Draft Guidance Statement No. 54a, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth, Western Australia Environment Australia (2000). Revision of the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) and development of Version 5.1, Summary Report. Environment Australia, November 2000.

Geological Survey of NSW (1966) 1:100,000 Newcastle Geological Series Sheet, No. 9130 First Edition.

Gleason and Associates (2008). Report of Indigenous Heritage Surveys (Ballardong Native Title Claimants and Graeme Pellew Group) and Archaeological Assessment of Western Areas Forrestania Nickel Project Mining Tenements M57/545, M77/583 (Spotted Quoll Mine) and M77/336 East of Hyden, Western Australia. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, December 2008.

Government of Western Australia, (2000), Bush Forever – Keeping the Bush in the City. Volume 1 – Policies, Principals and Processes, Perth, Western Australia. Halpern Glick Maunsell (1998). Jangardup South Fauna Survey- Vertebrate Fauna Assessment.Unpublished Report for Cable Sands Pty Ltd.

Harvey M.S. (2002). Short-range Endemism Among AustralianFfauna: Some Examples from Non- marine Environments. Invertebrate Systematics, 16: 555-570. Jacobs, M. R. (1955). Growth habits of the eucalypts. Forest and Timber Bureau, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra.

Johnstone R.E., Johnstone, C., and Kirkby, T. (2008) Assessment of significant habitat for Carnaby’s Cockatoo, Western Rosella and Chuditch in the Spotted Quoll Mining Proposal, Forrestania. Unpublished report for Western Areas NL, Perth.

Keighery, B.J. (1994). Bushland Plant Survey: A Guide to Plant Community Survey for the Community. Wildlfower Society of Western Australia Inc., Nedlands, Western Australia.

Lindbeck, K. (2008a). Mining Proposal Spotted Quoll Nickel Mining Project. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, October 2008.

Lindbeck, K. (2008b). Assessment of the Potential for the presence of Troglofauna Speciaes to be Present Mining Proposal Spotted Quoll Nickel Resource, Forrestania – Examination of Drill Core from Spotted Quoll. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, October 2008 MBS Environmental (2008) Soil Analysis Interpretation Report. Prepared for Western Areas NL July 2008. Muir, B.G., (1977). Biological Survey of the Western Australian Wheatbelt. Part II: Vegetation and Habitat of Bendering Reserve, Records of the Western Australian Museum, Supplement No. 3.

Peck, A. J., and D. R. Williamson (1987). Effects of forest clearing on groundwater. Journal of Hydrology 94:47-65.

Pepper, RG and Craig, GF (1986). Resistance of selected Eucalyptus species to soil salinity in Western Australia. Journal of Applied Ecology 23, 977-987.

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Ponder W.F. and D.J. Colgan (2002). What Makes a Narrow-range Taxon? Insights fromAustralian Fresh-water Snails. Invertebrate Systematics 16: 571–582. Rockwater (2008a). Dewatering Assessment. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, December 2008.

Rockwater (2008b). Bore Completion and Test-Pumping Report. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, December 2008.

Rockwater (2008c). Preliminary Stygofauna Investigation. Report prepared for Western Areas NL, December 2008.

Tille, P (2006). Soil-Landscape Zones of the WA Rangelands and Interior

Shepherd, D.P., Beeston, G.R. and Hopkins, A.J.M. (2001). Native Vegetation in Western Australia, Extent, Type and Status. Resource Management Technical Report 249. Department of Agriculture, Western Australia.

Sinclair Knight Merz (2001). Environmental Flows Initiative Technical Report Number 2 - Environmental Water Requirements to Maintain Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems. Environmental Australia, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory.

Stewart, W.A, Miller, S.D, and Smart, R. (2006). Advances in Acid Rock Drainage Characterisation of Mine Wastes. Paper presented at the 7th International Conference on Acid Rock Drainage (ICARD), March 26-30, 2006 St. Louis MO. R.I. Barnhisel (ed.) Published by the American Society of Mining and Reclamation (ASMR), 3134 Montavesta Road, Lexington, UK. Strahan, R (Ed.) (2000). The Mammals of Australia. Australian Museum and Reed Books. Chatswood, New South Wales.

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Coffey Environments 132 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009 SPOTTED QUOLL MINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT

12 DISCLAIMER

This document is published in accordance with and subject to an agreement between Coffey Environments (“Coffey”) and the client for whom it has been prepared, Western Areas NL (“Client”) and is restricted to those issues that have been raised by the client in its engagement of Coffey and prepared using the standard of skill and care ordinarily exercised by Environmental Scientists in the preparation of such Documents.

Any person or organisation that relies on or uses the document for purposes or reasons other than those agreed by Coffey and the Client without first obtaining the prior written consent of Coffey, does so entirely at their own risk and Coffey denies all liability in tort, contract or otherwise for any loss, damage or injury of any kind whatsoever (whether in negligence or otherwise) that may be suffered as a consequence of relying on this Document for any purpose other than that agreed with the Client.

Coffey Environments 133 ENVIPERT00607AA_EPS Report Preparation_001_si_V2 17 February 2009

Figures

Environmental Protection Statement Spotted Quoll Mine

Meekatharra Wiluna kilometres

050100 150 200 SCALE 1 : 4 000 000 @ A4 Fri 30 Jan 09

HIGHWAY

GOLDFIELDS PRINTED: Mt Magnet

GERALDTON Leonora

NORTHERN

BRAND

HIGHWAY GREAT 09

Dalwallinu

KALGOORLIE INDIAN HWY OCEAN

COOLGARDIE HIGHWAY EASTERN Southern Cross Yanchep Northam GREAT Merredin

Subject Land PERTH Norseman Hyden MANDURAH

ESPERANCE Narrogin

BUNBURY Lake King Ravensthorpe Katanning HIGHWAY HWY BUSSELTON SOUTH COAST

ESPERANCE

SOUTHERN ALBANY OCEAN ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F01.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 15-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE REGIONAL LOCATION FIGURE 1 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F02.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 16-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01-09 PRINTED: Fri 30 Jan 09 740 000mE 760 000mE

L 7700204

L 7700203 kilometres Hyden Norseman Road M 7700911 012345

Flying Fox M 7700329 Forrestania Southern Cross Road SCALE 1 : 125 000 @ A3

M 7700545

M 7700585 New Morning M 7700912 M 7700098

M 7700584 Spotted Quoll M 7700583

M 7700586

6 400 000mN

M 7700587 M 7700336

M 7700588

M 7700589

Cosmic Boy L 7700197 M 7700399 M 7700335

M 7700574

Existing Gridline

M 7700568

M 7400091 6 380 000mN

M 7400090

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT Digger Rocks

M 7400058 L 7400044

FORRESTANIA REGIONAL PLAN M 7400057

M 7400092 FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE

Existing Gridline

M 7400081 L 7000109 Existing Track

G 7000226 Mossco FIGURE 2

Mulcahy Road G 7000231

SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F03.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02-09 PRINTED: Fri 13 Feb 09

LEGEND Tenement Boundary

Waste Dump Outline

Pit Outline FLYING FOX metres Site Infrastructure PROJECT SITE M 77/545 Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 SCALE 1 : 20 000 @ A3 Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor

6 408 000mN

M 77/912

Haul Road 6 406 000mN

M 77/583

Workshops & Administration Area

Saline Water Settling Pond M 77/584

Bioremediation Area 6 404 000mN

Waste Dump

SPOTTED QUOLL 750 000mE PROJECT SITE

Pit ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE SITE LAYOUT

6 402 000mN FIGURE 3 752 000mE 754 000mE

SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F04.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02-09 PRINTED: Fri 13 Feb 09 SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. 6 403000mN 6 404000mN 050 SCALE 1:7500@A3 0 5 0 250 200 150 100 metres

751 000mE Waste Dump Pit Administration Area Workshops & Settling Ponds Saline Water

752 000mE M 77/583 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT WASTE ROCK DUMPDESIGN FOR THESPOTTED QUOLLMINE DRF andPriorityFloraLegend LEGEND 753 000mE Eucalyptus steedmanii Eremaphila racemosa Microcorys Eucalyptus steedmanii Eucalyptus steedmanii Haul Road,PipelineandPowerlineCorridor Clearing Envelope(~235Ha) Site Infrastructure Pit Outline Waste DumpOutline Tenement Boundary PROPOSED PITAND sp. forrestania (P4) (CALM) Population (DRF) (DRF) (P4) FIGURE 4 752 000mE

metres Workshops & Administration Area 0 100 200 300 400 500 SCALE 1 : 10 000 @ A4 Fri 13 Feb 09

Saline Water PRINTED: Settling Ponds

6 404 000mN

Waste Dump

M 77/583 09

WWWB2 WWWB7 Pit WWWB3

WWWB5

WWWB6 WWWB4

6 403 000mN

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary

Waste Dump Outline

Pit Outline

Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha)

Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor

Existing Dewatering Bore 751 000mE Proposed Additional Dewatering Bore SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F05.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE DEWATERING BORE LOCATIONS FIGURE 5 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F06.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02-09 PRINTED: Fri 13 Feb 09

metres

0 200 400 600 800 1000 SCALE 1 : 25 000 @ A3

6 406 000mN

5 10 1 15

10 15

15 6 404 000mN 25 35 35 25 45 65

1

5

65 55 75

25 45

95 55

105

55

85 35 35 45 75 10 25 15 65

45

55

25

35

15 45 6 402 000mN

35

15

25 35

10

10

25

25 1

15 INFERRED GROUNDWATER DRAWDOWN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT 15 15 5

10 6 400 000mN

AFTER 26 MONTHS PUMPING 10 FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE

5 5 LEGEND 1 1 Tenement Boundary Waste Dump Outline

Pit Outline

Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) 750 000mE FIGURE 6 Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor 752 000mE Dewatering Bore Location

Proposed Additional Bore Location

LAYOUT SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. Drawdown Contour DRAWDOWN SOURCE: Rockwater - Dwg. No. 298.2/09/ammend-3, January 2009. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F07.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 19-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01-09 PRINTED: Fri 30 Jan 09 SOURCE: Rockwater-Dwg. No.298.2/09/1-5, January2009. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT GROUNDWATER DRAWDOWN FOR THESPOTTED QUOLLMINE CROSS SECTION FIGURE 7 WWMB11s 752 000mE

Workshops & metres Administration Area

0 100 200 300 400 500 SCALE 1 : 10 000 @ A4 Fri 13 Feb 09 Saline Water Settling Ponds

PRINTED: WWMB8s WWMB9s

6 404 000mN

Waste Dump WWMB13s M 77/583 09 WWMB34 WWMB3 WBD98

WWRC15s WWMB7s WWRC13s WWMB1s WWMB1 Pit WWRC17s WBD58 WWMB14s WWMB2 WWMB15s

6 403 000mN WWMB12s

WWMB6s LEGEND WWMB5s

Tenement Boundary

Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline

Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha)

Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor

Shallow Monitoring Bore Location WWMB4s

Deep Monitoring Bore Location 751 000mE SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F08.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE MONITORING BORE LOCATIONS FIGURE 8 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F09.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 19-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01-09 PRINTED: Fri 30 Jan 09 SOURCE: IntechEngineers -Dwg.No.868-SK-0003 Rev K, 07/11/08. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT SITE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FOR THESPOTTED QUOLLMINE 10203040500 LAYDOWN AREA SCALE 1:250@A3 metres FIGURE 9 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F10.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 20-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01-09 PRINTED: Fri 30 Jan 09 SOURCE: GeologicalSurvey ofWesternAustralia -1:250 000GeologicalSeries, HydenSI5004. 10203040500 SCALE 1:000@A3 metres SPOTTED QUOLLMINE 740 000mE

760 000mE 6 420000mN 6 440000mN 6 380000mN 6 400000mN

780 000mE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT REGIONAL GEOLOGYOFTHE FOR THESPOTTED QUOLLMINE FORRESTANIA AREA FIGURE 10 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F08.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 21-01-09 CHECKED: SI 30-01-09 PRINTED: Fri 30 Jan 09 MINERALISATION OFTHESPOTTED QUOLLDEPOSIT ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THESPOTTED QUOLLMINE FIGURE 11 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F12.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02-09 PRINTED: Fri 13 Feb 09

LEGEND Tenement Boundary

Waste Dump Outline

Pit Outline metres Site Infrastructure M 77/545 Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 SCALE 1 : 20 000 @ A3 Catchment Boundary

Drainage Line C7A

C7 C6A 6 408 000mN

C6

M 77/912

C5 C5A

Haul Road 6 406 000mN

C4

C3 M 77/583

C2

Workshops & Administration Area

M 77/584

C1 Bioremediation Area 6 404 000mN

Waste Dump 750 000mE

Pit ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE CATCHMENT MAP

6 402 000mN FIGURE 12 752 000mE 754 000mE

SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. WWMB11s 752 000mE

Workshops & metres Administration Area

0 100 200 300 400 500 SCALE 1 : 10 000 @ A4 Mon 16 Feb 09 Saline Water Settling Ponds

PRINTED: WWMB8s WWMB9s

346

344

348

350 350 352 6 404 000mN 352

354

356

358

360 Waste 362 Dump 364 366 WWMB13s 368

M370 77/583 09 WWMB34 WWMB3 WBD98 372 WWRC15s WWRC13s WWWB2 WWMB7s 374 WWWB7 WWMB1s WWWB3 Pit WWRC17s WWMB1 WBD58 WWWB1 WWWB5 WWMB14s WWWB4 376 WWWB6 WWMB2 WWMB15s

6 403 000mN WWMB12s

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary WWMB6s WWMB5s Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline

Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha)

Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor

Groundwater Level Contour (m AHD)

Dewatering Bore Location

Shallow Monitoring Bore Location 751 000mE

Deep Monitoring Bore Location BASE SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. GROUNDWATER CONTOUR SOURCE: Rockwater, November 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F13.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 16-02-09 CHECKED: SI 16-02- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE GROUNDWATER CONTOURS FIGURE 13 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/Management Plan Preparation/EP2008-165F14.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 10-02-09 CHECKED: MS 10-02-09 PRINTED: Thu 12 Feb 09

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary

Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline kilometres Site Infrastructure 012345 Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) SCALE 1 : 150 000 @ A3

DRF Legend 6 440 000mN

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by DEC

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by WA Herbarium

4,000 Population Size Estimate

Population 6

Population 4

6 420 000mN

Population 5

M 7700911

M 7700545

Population 1 M 7700912

M 7700584 Population 3a Population 2 Population 3b 8,000 4,000 M 7700583 REGIONAL LOCATIONS - DRF RECORDS ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT

6 400 000mN FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE FIGURE 14 740 000mE 760 000mE

LAYOUT SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. BASE SOURCE: Geoscience Australia, 1 : 250 000 Digital Topographic Series. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F15.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02-09 PRINTED: Fri 13 Feb 09

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary

Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline metres Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 M 7700545 SCALE 1 : 20 000 @ A3 Vegetation Legend

Salmon Gum Woodland

Rocky Outcrop

Eucalyptus Mallee Woodland

Sandplain Heath 6 408 000mN Allocasuarina Woodland

Eucalyptus Woodland

DRF Legend

Eucalyptus steedmanii Populations Recorded by Botanica M 7700585 Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by Botanica

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by CALM

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by DEC 4,000 (Population Size Estimate) Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by WA Herbarium

Priority Flora Legend Population 1

Microcorys sp. forrestania (P4)

Eremophila racemosa (P4) M 7700912

Stylidium sejunctum (P2)

Haul Road

6 406 000mN

Workshops & Administration Area M 7700584

M 7700583

6 404 000mN

Waste Dump 750 000mE

Pit Population 2

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT 8,000 LOCATION OF SIGNIFICANT FLORA 4,000 Population 3a Population 3b FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE

6 402 000mN FIGURE 15 752 000mE 754 000mE

BASE SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. VEGETATION SOURCE: Botanica Consulting, 2008. WWMB11s 752 000mE

Workshops & metres Administration Area

0 100 200 300 400 500 SCALE 1 : 10 000 @ A4 Fri 13 Feb 09 Saline Water Settling Ponds

PRINTED: WWMB8s WWMB9s

6 404 000mN

Waste Dump

WWMB13s M 77/583 09 WBD98

WWRC15s WWMB7s WWRC13s WWMB1s Pit WWRC17s

WWMB14s

WWMB15s

6 403 000mN WWMB12s

WWMB6s WWMB5s

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary

Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline

Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha)

Haul Road, Pipeline and Powerline Corridor WWMB4s

Stygofauna Monitoring Bore Location 751 000mE SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F16.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 13-02-09 CHECKED: SI 13-02- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE STYGOFAUNA MONITORING BORES FIGURE 16 ENVI/PERT/00607AA/EPS Report Preparation/EP2008-167F17.dgn DATUM: MGA zn50 DRAWN: CR 12-02-09 CHECKED: SI 12-02-09 PRINTED: Thu 12 Feb 09

LEGEND

Tenement Boundary

Pit Outline

Waste Dump Outline metres Site Infrastructure

Clearing Envelope (~235Ha) 0 200 400 600 800 1000 M 7700545 SCALE 1 : 20 000 @ A3 Dust Deposition Gauge (Indicative Location)

100m Transect (Indicative Location)

DRF Legend

Eucalyptus steedmanii Populations Recorded by Botanica 6 408 000mN Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by Botanica

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by CALM

Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by DEC 4,000 (Population Size Estimate) Eucalyptus steedmanii Recorded by WA Herbarium

Priority Flora Legend M 7700585 Microcorys sp. forrestania (P4)

Eremophila racemosa (P4)

Stylidium sejunctum (P2)

Population 1

M 7700912

Haul Road

6 406 000mN

Workshops & Administration Area M 7700584

M 7700583

6 404 000mN

Waste Dump 750 000mE

Pit Population 2

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION STATEMENT 8,000

4,000 Population 3a INDICATIVE MONITORING PLAN Population 3b FOR THE SPOTTED QUOLL MINE

6 402 000mN FIGURE 17 752 000mE 754 000mE

BASE SOURCE: Forrestania Nickel, December 2008. VEGETATION SOURCE: Botanica Consulting, 2008.