11 GROUNDWATER
11.1 INTRODUCTION
GeoTerra Pty Ltd was commissioned by ICO to assess the pre-mining status of the groundwater systems overlying the Proposed Mining Area, to assess the potential impacts resulting from the proposed mining, and to provide an outline of potential monitoring and rehabilitation strategies. This chapter provides a summary of the groundwater issues and impacts and is based on GeoTerra’s 2009 report entitled Underground Project Area Groundwater Assessment, Integra Underground NSW, which is presented as Annex G.
11.2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
11.2.1 Groundwater and Surface Water Interactions
The primary objective of the groundwater assessment was to determine the potential impacts on the local and regional groundwater systems resulting from the proposal. An understanding of the interaction between the groundwater and surface water regimes is essential to the prediction of the changes in water movement that could occur as result of the proposed mining operations. The assessment required consideration of:
groundwater movement to and from surface waters and aquifers. Groundwater can seep into creeks and rivers when groundwater levels are above the level of water in the watercourse, as a “gaining system”. Water can also flow from watercourses into the watertable and then from one aquifer into another, as a “losing system”, if there is connectivity between the stream and the aquifers;
regional groundwater drawdown. When water enters a coal mine from the overburden, it can lead to a drawdown in the overburden; and
the mining operations which are the subject of this proposal, as well as other mining operations in the area. Underground mining can lead to subsidence and changes in relative levels between watercourses and aquifers and hence the flows between them.
The main watercourses relevant to this proposal are Glennies, Bettys and Main Creeks. The groundwater regime comprises:
unconsolidated alluvium along the channels of the creeks; and
low yielding aquifers (generally coal seams), separated by aquicludes (mudstones and shales) and aquitards (sandstones).
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The Glennies, Main and Bettys Creek alluvial aquifers are defined as “shallow upriver” aquifers (DWE, 2008) and are characterised by low permeability clay to sandy sediments overlying basal clayey gravels.
Glennies Creek is a “gaining” stream, with the stream surface generally being below the groundwater table, except during high flow and flood events. The stream bed is typically incised at least 10 m into the alluvial flats, with the alluvium being up to 14 m deep and up to approximately 1100 m wide in the vicinity of the Underground Project Area. It is also possible that the underlying coal measures can discharge into the creek.
There is a reasonable to good relationship between increasing salinity in the Glennies Creek alluvium and increasing distance from the creek channel and a reasonable relationship between hydraulic conductivity (permeability), which is determined by the gravel and sand component in the alluvium, and distance from the creek. There is a poor relationship between pH and distance from the creek.
With increasing distance away from the creek, the Quaternary alluvium becomes more clay dominated, with lower permeability sediments in the more distant to peripheral areas of the alluvium. Based on assessments to date, it is interpreted that the alluvium:
dominated by low permeability clay basal sediments is distant from and poorly connected with Glennies Creek, such as in piezometers GCP26, GCP29 and GCP31 (see Figure 11.1); containing low to moderate permeability, basal, clayey gravels is less well connected to Glennies Creek, such as in GCP28 and GCP30 (see Figure 11.1); whilst within the lower alluvial terrace and containing high permeability basal gravels is well connected to Glennies Creek and provides baseflow to the creek; and
in the vicinity of Station Creek, represents a buried tributary palaeochannel of Glennies Creek that is potentially hydraulically separated, or partially separated, from the alluvial system of Glennies Creek. The “well connected” zone will vary in its areal extent depending on the distribution of the high permeability gravels. However, as an initial indication, where the terrace is absent or not well developed, the connected alluvium is assessed to be located within 200m of the creek edge.
To date, Glennies Creek and its alluvium have been undermined by the Middle Liddell Seam first workings only, whilst Main Creek has been undermined by Longwalls 5 and 6. No subsidence has occurred and no change to alluvial groundwater levels or Glennies Creek stream flow have been observed.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 124 Legend Glennies Creek Alluvium Extent Open Cut Project Area Extended South Pit Middle Liddell Mining Area
H15 Hebden Mining Area 1200m H14 Barrett Mining Area Stream Monitoring Site H12 H13 DWE Registered Bore/Well Alluvium Piezometer
H11
H10
H9
H8
H7
H6
H5 Figure 11.1 H4 Groundwater Monitoring Sites and H3 Mine Layout H2 H1 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd
B6 B7 Project: Integra Underground Coal Project B5 Environmental Assessment B4 Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_42 B3 Date: 30/06/09 Drawing size: A4 B2 Drawn by: JD Reviewed by: MS Source: GeoTerra
Scale: Refer to Scale Bar B1 0 40 80 1200m
N Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd GCP26 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
GCP28 GCP29 GCP30 GCP31 (555m) (740m)
No change to stream flows, stream bed or bank stability or stream water quality has been observed due to subsidence in Main Creek. Stream salinity in the southern, MC1(S) tributary (see Figure 11.1) has been gradually increasing since December 2007, with the latest reading indicating a salinity of approximately 5,200μS/cm. Conversely, the northern, MC1(N) tributary (see Figure 11.1) has been relatively static at around 300μS/cm. Although it has not been established as an influence on the change in salinity in the southern tributary of Main Creek, it is worth noting that the Mt Owen diversion of Bettys Creek to Main Creek, and the associated flows into the southern tributary, became operational around mid 2008.
Bettys Creek has yet to be subsided.
Bettys Creek is generally a “losing” stream, where the stream discharges into the underlying groundwater system. One groundwater seepage area was previously observed within the creek, with a small (less 10 m long) semi- persistent pool of saline water present over the Middle Liddell Seam Longwall 14, which has now been removed since development of the Xstrata Eastern Rail Pit.
Main Creek is also considered a “losing” stream and has been subsided up to 1.27 m by Middle Liddell Longwalls 2 to 8 (SCT Operations, 2008). No areas of groundwater seepage have been observed in Main Creek. However, some generally dry, shallow reed-filled ponds are present in the middle of the Middle Liddell / Hebden Seam mining area. Water can last in these ponds for a few weeks after rain.
Neither the coal measures nor creek alluvium are listed as vulnerable aquifers under the current Aquifer Risk Assessment Report (DLWC, 1998). However, they are covered, as appropriate, by the generic State Groundwater Policy (DLWC, 1997), Groundwater Quality Protection Policy (DLWC, 1998) and Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Policy (DLWC, 2002).
No groundwater dependent ecosystems are present or dependent on the Glennies, Bettys or Main Creek alluvial aquifers.
11.2.2 Groundwater Extraction
No groundwater is extracted from the coal measures within the Project Area, although one well (GW67291) is located in the Glennies Creek alluvium to the north-east of the proposed Barrett Seam first workings (Figure 11.1).
In addition to GW67291, three registered wells and one registered bore are located within the potential drawdown area of the proposed workings. Bore GW45084 is located in proximity to the Underground Project Area, but lies outside the potential Project Area drawdown zone. None of these wells or bores are active.
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No DWE registered extraction points are present in the Middle Liddell or Hebden mining areas within Main or Bettys Creek catchments.
11.2.3 Groundwater Quality
Groundwater quality within the alluvium can vary significantly. Salinities have been monitored up to approximately 22,000 μS/cm. The high salinity levels have been attributed to either upward leakage from underlying coal measures, or due to the extended time for recharge percolation through the low permeability clays overlying the basal gravel layers.
The Foybrook Formation is generally low yielding (<1.0L/sec) with its highest yields occurring from the coal seams. Water tends to be too saline for drinking, irrigation or stock use.
11.3 IMPACTS FROM EXISTING MINE WORKINGS
11.3.1 Mining Operations which Influence Groundwater in the Area
Mine workings, both existing and proposed, in the vicinity of the proposed Integra underground mine are summarised in Table 11.1 and shown on Figure 11.1, with each having the potential to influence the groundwater system within the Project Area.
Table 11.1 Local Mining Operations
MINE TYPE Owner Seams Mined
Integra Underground Longwall ICO Middle Liddell Mt Owen Open Cut Xstrata Lemington to Lower Hebden Ravensworth East Open Cut Xstrata Ravensworth to Bayswater Eastern Rail Pit Open Cut Xstrata Ravensworth Glendell Open Cut Xstrata Upper Bayswater to Barrett Ashton (Barrett Pit) Open Cut Ashton Coal Pikes Gully to Lower Barrett Ashton Underground Longwall Ashton Coal Pikes Gully North Open Cut1 Open Cut ICO Pikes Gully to Lower Barrett North Pit2 Open Cut ICO Middle Liddell to Hebden South pit Open Cut ICO Arties to Upper Hebden Extended South Pit3 Open Cut ICO Lemington to Upper Hebden 1. Not yet commenced 2. Decommissioned 3. Proposed
Potential groundwater effects from adjacent existing and proposed mines include coal measure depressurisation, alluvium depressurisation and changes to groundwater quality.
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11.3.2 Coal Measures Depressurisation
The proposed or decommissioned Integra Open Cut pits and the Integra Underground Middle Liddell Seam workings all have the potential to interact with the overburden coal measures’ groundwater pressure regime within and around the proposed Hebden and Barrett Seam mine workings. Excavation of the adjacent pits and underground workings has resulted, and will continue to result in localised depressurisation of coal seams and interburden, along with an enhanced regional groundwater flow toward the excavated workings.
After mining within the adjacent open cut mines is completed, the rate of regional groundwater level recovery will depend on the remaining water held in storage in the coal measures, as well as hydraulic properties of the spoil; rainfall recharge through spoils, and runoff entering the final voids. The remnant open cut voids will become evaporative sinks, with the groundwater level being unlikely to rise back to the original ground surface unless additional inflows are pumped or otherwise directed into the pits.
The Middle Liddell Seam workings will continue to be dewatered following completion of Longwall 17 to minimise the potential for inrush into the Hebden Seam workings, which will lie approximately 60 m to 80 m beneath the Middle Liddell Seam.
11.3.3 Alluvium Depressurisation
Mining of the Mt Owen, Ravensworth East, Eastern Rail, Glendell and Barrett open cuts may induce increased leakage from the alluvium and stream flow of Bettys Creek. Mining the Barrett Pit may also potentially induce leakage from Glennies Creek within the mine’s depressurisation area of influence.
In the future, the Mt Owen Pit and the Glendell Pit will mine through the alluvium of Bettys Creek, whilst the Eastern Rail Pit has already mined within the alluvium of Bettys Creek. This mining could reduce alluvial groundwater levels through leakage to the pits.
Existing diversions of Bettys Creek are likely to have reduced groundwater levels in the alluvium within the diverted sections. In addition, Xstrata’s diversion from Bettys Creek to Main Creek will further reduce stream flows and, by association, groundwater levels within the alluvium of Bettys Creek (WRM, 2009).
To date, subsidence arising from the Middle Liddell Seam workings in Longwalls 1 to 8 may have induced a decline in groundwater level of up to 2 m within the Main Creek alluvial aquifer. Conversely, due to the lack of subsidence over the mains, the Middle Liddell workings have had no effect on the Glennies Creek alluvial groundwater system.
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11.3.4 Changes in Groundwater Quality
To date, no measureable change in groundwater quality has been reported within the coal measures or alluvial aquifers within the proposed Project Area as a consequence of mining.
11.4 PROJECT RELATED IMPACTS
11.4.1 Assessment Methodology
Modelling was undertaken to assess potential impacts of mining on the groundwater regime. A conceptual hydrogeological system was developed to enable the set up of a FEFLOW model. The model structure, modelling approach and simulations used for the assessment were generated by Golder Associates Pty Ltd in association with Geoterra, and are detailed in Annex G. Groundwater was modelled for years 2008, 2014, 2018, 2024 and 2031, based on the predicted active mining periods for the mines in the subject area.
Hydraulic parameters used in the model down to the Barrett Seam were based on field measurements from the Integra Open Cut and the Integra Underground Project Areas, along with modelled parameters used in adjacent or similar mine studies. These studies include the Middle Liddell Seam Longwalls 10 to 17 (Geoterra, 2007), Mt Owen Open Cut (Mackie Environmental Research, 2003A), Ashton Underground (Peter Dundon and Associates Pty Ltd, 2006), Glennies Creek Barrett Pit (now called the Integra North Open Cut) (Australasian Groundwater and Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd, 2006), and the Camberwell Open Cut (now called the South Pit) (Mackie Environmental Research, 2000).
Due to the complex interactive depressurisation effects of numerous coal mines on groundwater levels within the model area, calibration of the model focussed on obtaining steady state correlation between known and modelled mine inflow rates, as opposed to matching observed and modelled groundwater levels.
To validate the model generated outputs, model generated inflow rates were compared to modelled and observed mine inflows for the Mt Owen, North Open Cut, South Pit, North Pit, Glendell Pit and the Ashton Underground. The model achieved a good correlation.
A sensitivity analysis was carried out to address the uncertainty of model parameters and implications for resulting model predictions. The analysis indicated the following.
Lower permeabilities in the alluvium significantly reduce the degree of drawdown in the alluvial aquifers and reduce the loss of seepage to local streams.
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Greater drawdowns and a greater reduction in seepage to the local streams occurred in the alluvial aquifers for higher permeabilities where subsidence cracking is present.
11.4.2 Local Stream Flow Impacts
It is not anticipated that stream flow in Glennies, Bettys or Main Creeks will be observably reduced, based on the modelled response to subsidence over the proposed underground workings.
Loss of stream flow in Glennies Creek to the alluvium on both sides of Glennies Creek between the Middle Falbrook Road bridge and the Main Creek confluence due to mine induced depressurisation is modelled to currently be approximately 7.3 ML/year. In the same reach, after mining the underground workings is completed in the year 2031, the loss of flow is modelled to have risen from 7.3 ML/year to 27.4 ML/year. The flow loss is not significant when it is compared to the mean flow in the creek. The mean flow is 179 ML/day at the Middle Falbrook Road bridge (WRM, 2009). Additionally, there are 19 registered water extraction points between the Middle Falbrook Road and Nobles Crossing with general and high security licences, as well as licences for stock, domestic and supplementary use, which can extract up to 2097 ML/year from this reach.
The Main and Bettys Creek systems are regionally small systems, with no beneficial users or groundwater dependent ecosystems. Geoterra (2009) suggests that although there may be some minor loss of stream flow in these creeks due to subsidence cracking, the projected minor loss of stream flow would be difficult to detect from the other variables affecting stream flow.
11.4.3 Subsidence Effects on Groundwater Levels
Geoterra reports that only one of the registered wells within the Project Area is currently being used (GW67291). Geoterra’s groundwater response model predicts a maximum drawdown of less than 0.5 m at this well as shown in Table 11.2.
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Table 11.2 Potential Groundwater Level Subsidence Effects
Bore / Well East / North Status Depth SWL Aquifer Intake Potential (mbgl) (mbgl) Drawdown (m) Basement GW56703 325310 / 6413361 Bore (abandoned) 22.9 N.A. Basalt / coal < 1 GW45084 322029 / 6406833 Bore (abandoned) 18.9 N.A. Sandstone < 0.5 Alluvium GW11543 324313 / 6407613 Well (abandoned) 5.5 4.6 Glennies Ck alluvium < 0.5 GW49285 324873 / 6408486 Well (abandoned) 9.1 6.7 Glennies Ck alluvium < 0.5 GW67291 326263 / 6408140 Well (active) 27.4 N.A. Glennies Ck alluvium < 0.5 Gardner Well 324873 / 6408466 Well (abandoned) N.A. N.A. Glennies Ck alluvium < 0.5 Noble Dams 322758 / 6408765 spring fed dams 1 1 - 2 Main Ck colluvium < 0.5
11.4.4 Alluvial Aquifer Impacts
Alluvial groundwater systems have been, and will continue to be, affected by mining extraction at adjacent open cut coal mines and the diversions within and out of the Bettys Creek catchment.
Modelling predicts that less than 1m of drawdown is anticipated within the connected alluvium of Glennies Creek, but this will not occur until after 2024. The modelled drawdown is less than the current variability in alluvial groundwater levels of up to 2.09m. As a result, the change in groundwater levels within the connected alluvium of Glennies Creek is not anticipated to adversely or observably affect stream flow or stream water quality in Glennies Creek
Extensional crack formation may develop in the surficial layer up to 20m beneath the alluvial / colluvial layer over the proposed longwall workings, and could reduce groundwater levels within the shallow weathered overburden by up to 5m in Main Creek and up to 1m in Bettys Creek. No subsidence cracking is anticipated over the first workings under the alluvium of Glennies Creek. Up to 7m of indirect drawdown is modelled in the disconnected, distant very low permeability, clay dominated alluvial sediments which are approximately 760m to the south / east of Glennies Creek in GCP26 (see Figure 11.1). The maximum drawdown will not occur until after 2024 when the Hebden workings will be completed, and could occur up to 2031 when mining within the Barrett Seam is planned to finish. As the maximum modelled alluvial drawdown does not overlie longwall workings, the drawdown will not be due to direct fracture connection to the underlying basement or coal workings as the affected areas will not be subsided. As a result, no associated cracking of the basement nor direct hydraulic fracture connection to the underground workings is anticipated over the proposed first workings under the Glennies Creek alluvium.
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11.4.5 Impacts on Shallow Groundwater Systems
Based on experience in similar mining environments in the Hunter Valley, the shallow groundwater systems within the Integra Underground Project Area are not predicted to be observably adversely affected by subsidence (Geoterra, 2009).
11.4.6 Impacts on Deep Coal Overburden
Total underground mine inflows of up 255 ML/yr are modelled at the end of mining in the Middle Liddell Seam, along with up to 459 ML/yr from the Hebden workings and up to 258 ML/year from the Barrett workings, which will be pumped to the North Pit and / or the extended or existing South Pit. At the peak, up to 478 ML/year may be pumped out of the active underground workings.
There are no aquifers that provide a beneficial use or sustain groundwater dependent ecosystems within the coal measures in the Integra Underground Project Area. Coal seams provide the higher permeability formations in the overburden, however they do not have suitable quality water or permeability to be beneficial for agricultural or domestic purposes.
The pre-subsidence coal measure aquifers over the proposed workings have a very low recharge rate, which decreases further with depth. Post-subsidence cracking can significantly enhance the vertical and horizontal permeability and enhance interconnection of aquifers, aquicludes and aquitards within the overburden.
Reduction in coal measure water levels is relatively instantaneous after subsidence and, if there is no exit route out of the groundwater system such as through surface seeps or flow into the underlying workings, the water table may re-establish with sufficient recharge, once subsidence has stopped at a specified location. However, the time-frame for this is highly dependent on the nature and longevity of the recharge and the post-subsidence interconnection of aquifers, aquicludes and aquitards.
The actual presence and hydraulic nature of faults within the Integra Underground Project Area is not well known at this stage and has not been assessed in the model. If the hydraulic conductivity of the faults is higher than the surrounding pre-subsidence strata, they may act as water conduits resulting in higher inflows to the workings. By contrast, if the hydraulic conductivities of the faults are lower than the overburden, they may act as pre-subsidence barriers which could result in lower than estimated inflow rates into the underground.
In any case, following extraction and subsidence of the proposed workings, it is reasonable to assume that fracture propagation up to 150 m above the workings and in the top 20 m of overburden beneath the surface will override the influence of any faults that may be present within those depths.
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11.4.7 Middle Liddell Seam
Groundwater pressures within the Middle Liddell Seam (Longwalls 1 to 17), which lie between 270 m to 500 m below the surface, will be significantly reduced following seam extraction. Partial dewatering will occur that may extend to approximately 150 m above the workings.
The actual drawdown of the piezometric surface is not anticipated to migrate further than approximately 150 m above the seam due to the limited extent of brittle failure above the workings.
Drawdown in the Middle Liddell Seam is predicted to continue up until the underlying Hebden Seam is fully extracted in 2025, as the goaf and highly fractured zone development propagates up into the previously mined Middle Liddell Seam.
11.4.8 Barrett Seam
Groundwater pressures within the Barrett Seam will be significantly reduced following extraction.
It should be noted that the Barrett Seam is not planned to be extracted between the Middle Liddell and the Hebden Seam workings on the north side of Glennies Creek due to potential geotechnical instability problems induced within the underlying Hebden Seam and, in turn, the potential to compromise the ability to mine the higher quality Hebden Seam.
Partial dewatering will occur above the highly fractured longwall subsidence zone within dilated strata that may extend between 100 m to 150 m above the longwalls.
As no subsidence will be generated above the Barrett Seam first workings, there will be no direct depressurisation of the first workings areas underneath the alluvium of Glennies Creek.
11.4.9 Hebden Seam
Groundwater pressures within the Hebden Seam longwall workings, which lie between 295m and 560 m below surface, will be significantly reduced following extraction. Partial dewatering will occur above the highly fractured zone within dilated strata that may extend between 100 m to 150 m above the workings, which will propagate into the Middle Liddell Seam workings.
The groundwater head drawdown is anticipated to interact with the Middle Liddell Seam depressurisation, which will, in turn, propagate to approximately 150 m above the Middle Liddell Seam.
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11.5 REGIONAL CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
11.5.1 Alluvial and Shallow Coal Measures
Drawdown within the shallow Foybrook Formation due to subsidence over the proposed Middle Liddell and Hebden Seam workings will interact with the regional basement drawdown generated through extraction of the Eastern Rail and Ravensworth East Pits.
Current monitoring indicates that the alluvial aquifer is hydraulically separated from the underlying shallow coal measures aquifer, and therefore the degree of depressurisation within the shallow coal measures due to subsidence is not anticipated to significantly transfer to the overlying alluvial aquifers in Bettys, Main and Glennies Creeks due to the high clay content of the alluvium.
The reduced alluvial recharge effects, due to extraction of the Mt Owen Pit and the diversion within and out of the Bettys Creek catchment may also lead to an additional cumulative reduction in groundwater levels within the alluvial system of Bettys Creek, as well as the shallow coal measures. Conversely, the Xstrata diversion from Bettys Creek to Main Creek may also enhance stream water recharge to the Main Creek alluvial aquifer.
The cumulative effect of drawdown in the shallow coal measures from adjacent mining operations is anticipated to be greater than any reduced stream flow recharge or groundwater level drawdown imposed solely through subsidence over the proposed underground workings.
Modelling indicates that the main groundwater depressurisation will occur in the extracted seams, as well as within the overlying goaf and highly fractured overburden.
11.5.2 Deep Coal Measures
Depressurisation of the coal measures has progressively advanced since mining at Mt Owen commenced in late 1993. Prior to that time, dewatering of shallow coal measures had been initiated through mining at the Ravensworth East open cut. Historical underground operations at Liddell Colliery (in the Liddell Seams) may also have marginally affected water levels in the Ravensworth East area, although measured levels suggest the impact was negligible (Mackie Environmental Research, 2003).
Drawdown within the deeper coal measures due to subsidence over the proposed underground workings will interact with the regional drawdown generated through extraction of the Eastern Rail, Ravensworth East, Mt Owen Pit C, Glendell, Barrett, and Integra Open Cuts, as well as the Ashton underground workings.
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Drawdown from the combined effect of the regional mines will be added to by drawdown due to subsidence over the proposed underground workings. However, the Integra Underground will not adversely affect the beneficial use of the groundwater system to either water users or the environment. Modelling indicates that depressurisation caused by the underground workings, when combined with depressurisation from the adjacent open cut workings, may extend up to 5 km from the proposed workings within the Foybrook Formation.
11.5.3 Regional Groundwater Level Recovery
Following mining, re-saturation of the underground workings will occur, although the re-saturation rate will be restricted by the cumulative effects of interaction with the adjacent open cut mines in the local area.
The actual effect of the cumulative underground and open cut depressurisation and groundwater level recovery is not accurately known, as the future final distribution of mines outside the Integra Underground Project Area is also not known.
The modelled, post underground mining groundwater system, based on the current knowledge of the potential future mine distribution in the local area, is presented in Figures 11.2 and 11.3.
11.5.4 Geomechanical Modelling
Preliminary geomechanical modelling of the potential fracture development resulting from the proposed Hebden Seam extraction was conducted using the two dimensional FLAC code, as described by SCT (2009).
The results of the modelling and hydraulic conductivity calculations show a distinctive difference between the horizontal and vertical fracture distribution, with the vertical fracturing showing lower relative permeability. Whilst the horizontal permeability shows a distinctive increase, the results show limited potential for vertical connection in fractures, particularly around 100 m below ground surface. These low vertically connected fracture zones suggest minimal direct loss of surface water to the underground.
11.6 GROUNDWATER QUALITY IMPACTS
The current hydrogeological regime potentially has elevated pressures within the coal measures which may be dissipating through upward leakage into the alluvial aquifer along Glennies Creek. However, no groundwater seepage has currently been observed within the Integra Underground Project Area from underlying coal measures into Main or Bettys Creek.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 134 6416000 Mt Owen Pit
6414000 Eastern Rail Pit Ravensworth East Pit
6412000 Glennies Creek Underground
Hebden Seam Underground
6410000 Barret Seam Underground
Bord & Pillar 4 Bord & Pillar Glendell 5 Pit North Open Cut 6408000
Bord & Pillar Ashton Pit 1 North Pit (backfilled) Bord & Pillar 1 6406000 Portal Sump
Ashton Underground 6404000
Existing South Pit 6402000 Full Pit and Part Pit - Initial Full Pit Void - Middle
Full Pit and Part Pit Void - 6400000 Final Rixs Creek
6398000
6396000
314000 316000 318000 320000 322000 324000 326000 328000 330000 332000
Figure 11.2 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 2041 Alluvium Drawdown Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_44 Date: 10/06/09 Drawing size: A4 Drawn by: JD Reviewed by: MS Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Source: GeoTerra Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
N 6416000 Mt Owen Pit
6414000 Eastern Rail Pit Ravensworth East Pit
6412000 Glennies Creek Underground
Hebden Seam Underground
6410000 Barret Seam Underground
Glendell Bord & Pillar 4 Bord & Pillar Pit 5 North Open Cut 6408000
Bord & Pillar 1 Ashton Pit North Pit (backfilled) Bord & Pillar 1 6406000 Portal Sump
Ashton Underground 6404000
Existing South Pit 6402000 Full Pit and Part Pit - Initial Full Pit Void - Middle
Full Pit and Part Pit Void - 6400000 Final Rixs Creek
6398000
6396000
314000 316000 318000 320000 322000 324000 326000 328000 330000 332000
Figure 11.3 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 2041 Hebden Seam Drawdown Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_45 Date: 10/06/09 Drawing size: A4 Drawn by: JD Reviewed by: MS Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Source: GeoTerra Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
N
Groundwater seepage, if it is occurring, would lead to a brackish to saline environment in basal sections of the alluvium, which could be improved through downward migration of rainfall recharge in the more permeable regions of the alluvium. Improved groundwater quality in the Glennies Creek alluvium from rainfall recharge may then migrate to greater depths within the alluvium as the saline groundwater is displaced downwards. The extent to which this process could develop is difficult to predict beyond a general concept since sustained flushing would be required to improve the deeper saline groundwater environment within the alluvium.
The more distant sections away from Glennies Creek, as well as within sections of Bettys and Main Creek alluvium and shallow coal measures, have high alluvial groundwater salinity (up to approximately 20,000 uS/cm). The water would generally not be suitable for domestic or agricultural use, with the groundwater system having a low beneficial use.
Based on the existing high salinity in the alluvium of the three creeks and the general presence of surficial, low permeability clays, it is not anticipated that the alluvial groundwater quality of Glennies, Bettys or Main Creek will be reduced through extraction of the proposed underground workings. If anything, the partial depressurisation of the underlying coal measures could generate reduced upwelling of saline water and greater recharge of fresh rain water, and the water quality could improve.
11.7 MONITORING, CONTINGENCIES AND REPORTING
11.7.1 ICO Monitoring
The current monitoring program over the Integra Underground Project Area involves a number of piezometers equipped with water level loggers reading at 12 hourly intervals with manual water level measurement, pH and EC monitoring every two months. This monitoring will continue, with periodic reports documenting and interpreting the collected data. The current monitoring network was developed in consultation with, and the piezometers have been licensed by, DWE.
Groundwater samples will be collected annually from selected piezometers and analysed at a NATA registered laboratory for major ions and selected metals. The groundwater program will be maintained in its current status, with a review of the program after the first 12 months of data is interpreted. Additional piezometers may be added to the existing suite as studies continue within the Project Area.
The volume of water pumped into and out of the underground workings will be monitored to enable the differential groundwater seepage into the workings to be assessed.
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It is anticipated that the groundwater monitoring program will be extended beyond the active mine life in order to assess the potential long term change in groundwater level recovery and quality changes, with the program continuing for a period agreed with the DWE / DPI / DECC.
11.7.2 Private Bore and Well Monitoring
There is only one known operational private well which is extracting water from the Glennies Creek alluvium (GW67291 on Figure 11.1) that may be affected within the potential drawdown area.
Although modelling indicates that an observable adverse effect on water levels or water quality will not occur within the Glennies Creek alluvium, measurement of the standing water level every two months within the well, along with field monitoring of pH and EC and annual laboratory analysis of groundwater samples for major ions and selected metals will be conducted, with periodic reports documenting and interpreting the collected data.
If requested by the landowner, the pre-mining yield of the well will be tested via a pump out test to determine its current yield, with a follow up test to occur if the yield of the well is thought to be adversely affected due to subsidence effects.
The private well monitoring program will be initiated at least 12 months prior to extraction of the Barrett Seam mining area, with ongoing review and possible modification of the program as further data is obtained and interpreted.
11.7.3 Contingency Procedures
Prior to extraction of the proposed underground workings, performance indicators will be identified and a statistical assessment will be undertaken to detect when, or if, a significant change has occurred in the groundwater system and which will benchmark the natural variation in groundwater quality and standing water levels.
Contingency procedures will be developed as required and used to manage any impacts identified by monitoring that demonstrate the groundwater management strategies may not have adequately predicted or managed the groundwater system’s anticipated response to mining, with the measures to be developed being dependent on the issue that requires addressing.
Activation of contingency procedures will be linked to the assessment of monitoring results, including water quality, aquifer hydrostatic pressure levels and the rate of water level changes.
If monitoring results indicate the agreed standards or performance indicators are not being achieved, remedial action may be required for any operational groundwater extraction wells or bores that may be developed during
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 136
extraction of, and within, the Integra Underground drawdown area. Examples of potential remedial actions, where the cause is shown to be due to underground mining in the Middle Liddell, Barrett or Hebden Seams, could include:
deepening of pumps if water level drawdown occurs beneath an installed pump depth;
replacement / redrilling or deepening of a bore or well; or
providing an alternative, equivalent, water supply.
Due to the significant regional dewatering effect from the proposed adjoining open cut mines and the lack of beneficial use for groundwater in the Integra Underground, it is not anticipated that groundwater system remediation will be required.
11.7.4 Reporting
Following the completion of extraction of each longwall panel, a report will be prepared that summarises relevant monitoring data. The report will outline any changes in the groundwater system over the Integra Underground Project Area and contain an interpretation of the data along with:
a basic statistical analysis (mean, range, variable, standard deviation) of the results for the parameters measured;
an interpretation of water quality and standing water level changes supported with graphs or contour plots; and
an interpretation and review of the results in relation to the impact assessment criteria.
Relevant monitoring and management activities for each year will also be reported in the AEMR.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 137
12 AIR QUALITY
12.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides an overview of ICO’s approach to the management of air quality, discusses the results of modelling undertaken as part of this assessment and outlines management measures that will be implemented to mitigate or avoid potential impacts resulting from the proposal.
This chapter summarises the Integra Underground Coal Project Air Quality Impact Assessment (ERM 2008a) presented as Annex H. The ERM report is based on modelling and reporting undertaking by Holmes Air Sciences, 2008.
The key pollutants identified for consideration were:
Total suspended particulates (TSP).
Particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM10).
Deposited dust (dust which settles onto a surface over a period of time).
12.2 AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
12.2.1 Relevant NSW Regulatory Framework
The air quality assessment was carried out in accordance with the Approved Methods and Guidance for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in New South Wales, NSW DECC, August 2005.
12.2.2 National Environment Protection Measures
The National Environment Protection Measure (Ambient Air Quality) 1998 (NEPM) is a Commonwealth Government initiative which aims to achieve nominated standards of air quality within ten years. Air quality standards for six major air pollutants (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, photochemical oxidants, sulfur dioxide, lead and small airborne particles) have been set.
All states and territories have adopted the NEPM air quality goals for
pollutants. The criterion relating to potential PM10 emissions from the Project is outlined in Table 12.1. This standard is legally binding on all levels of government. Measurement and concentration averaging periods are based on critical exposure times for health impacts and are thus different for various
pollutants. The NEPM 24-hour PM10 criterion has been incorporated into the NSW DECC impact assessment criteria.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 138
Table 12.1 NEPM (Ambient Air Quality) Standards
Pollutant Averaging Period Maximum Maximum Allowable Concentration Exceedances
Particles as PM10 24 hour 50 g/m3 5 days in a year.
The NSW DECC publish impact assessment criteria for air pollutants in their document “Approved Methods and Guidance for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in New South Wales” (revised 2005). This document is referred to in Part 4: Emission of Air Impurities from Activities and Plant in the Protection of the Environment Operations (Clean Air) Regulation (2002). Industry has an obligation to ensure compliance with the requirements specified in this Regulation.
The impact assessment criteria relevant to the Project alone are presented in Table 12.2. These are the criteria against which the predicted ground level concentrations of pollutants generated by the Project are compared.
Table 12.2 NSW DECC Impact Assessment Criteria – Project alone (Incremental)
Pollutant Averaging Period Concentration
PM10 24 hours 50 g/m3
PM10 Annual 30 g/m3 Total Suspended Particulates Annual 90 g/m3 Deposited Dust Annual 2 g/m2/month Source: “Approved Methods for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in NSW” (NSW DECC, 2005) Source: “National Environment Protection Measure (Ambient Air)” (Amendment 2003)
12.3 METHODOLOGY
A Level 2 impact assessment (as described by DECC (2005)), was carried out to determine potential impacts of the Project on air quality. The assessment was undertaken in accordance with the DGRs, DECC requirements and DECC (2005) Approved Methods and Guidance for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in New South Wales, and included the following.
A desktop assessment to characterise existing air quality, identify sensitive receptors and characterise the meteorological conditions and geographical features (eg vegetation, topography and landuse) of the site and surrounding area with potential to affect air dispersion.
A review of the legislative and regulatory framework relevant to the Project.
Identification of potential emissions and their sources, including details of emission source locations, dimensions and rates of contaminant releases, and development of an air emissions inventory for the Project.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 139
Computer-based air dispersion modelling of the release and dispersion of particulate matter emissions from the Project, using a modified version of the US EPA ISCST3 model (ISCMOD) software, and taking into account background conditions, terrain and meteorological conditions in order to predict future ground-level dust concentrations and deposition levels at sensitive receptors.
An assessment of the potential for predicted ambient air quality to cause adverse health or nuisance effects at sensitive receptors, by assessing model results against the DECC impact assessment criteria.
Development of measures to mitigate air quality impacts.
Impacts were assessed for 170 discrete receptors as shown in Figure 12.1.
A detailed description of the assessment methodology is included in the ERM 2008a (Annex H).
12.4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
12.4.1 Particulate Matter – Incremental Impacts
The main air quality issues identified in association with the Integra Underground are related to particulate matter emissions to the atmosphere generated from:
wind erosion of the ROM coal stockpile;
dumping material into haul trucks at the ROM stockpile via front end loaders, for transport to the CHPP;
transport of coal on unpaved roads from the ROM coal stockpile to the CHPP (from December 2010, ROM coal will be transported to the CHPP via a conveyor. However, it is noted that ICO has lodged an application with DoP seeking a deferral of the requirement for latest conveyor operation to December 2011;
processing and handling of coal at the CHPP, including dumping of coal from trucks into the hopper, discharge of product coal to stockpiles and loading of rail wagons; and
emissions from the existing ventilation shaft and from a proposed future ventilation shaft.
Annual particulate matter emissions from each of these sources were estimated, taking into account air pollution controls proposed as part of the project design (see Section 12.5.1), and were included in the dispersion model.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 140 Legend INSET Project Area
Privately-Owned Receptor 85 28 86 89 Mine-Owned, Derelict 74 CAMBERWELL or Unoccupied Receptor 88
101 92 90
93 Bettys Creek 100 167 99 94 168 91 105 166 96 169 165 96 102 60 98 57 97 74 58 55 41 104 164 163 103161 59 162 56 42 61 40 118 Forest Road 119 Main Creek 54 38 39 117 53 52 160 Road65
116 Spur Rail Mt Owen 51 37 66 36 123 122 115 62 67 50 43 159 121 114 106 68 28 126 124 125 155 69 29 158 113 71 70 63 49 157 156 72 44 30 27 35 34 31 Creek 73 48 33 26 80 64 127 47 154 79 76 k Road 46 32 81 oo 25 Notes: Forest Road 83 lbr 45 Northern Fa Boundaries offset for clarity. 82 e Stony dl 24 Main 77 id M Creek Glennies Nobles Lane 23 84 78 Road 22 CAMBERWELL 85 New 86 Railway 89 88 20 92 90 21 101 Creek 91 134 168 19 102 96 105 87 104 97 163 103 160 117 153 135 122 18 159 114 106 126 Glennies 125 156 113 17 127 154 112 16 107 128 130 14 111 110 108 129 131 109 13 15
Road 11 10 12 9 132 England 8 133 7
6 5
136
Bridgman 4 Figure 12.1 137 2 3 Receptor Locations 1 152 150 148 151 149 Highway 147 146 145 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 138 144 INSET Project: Integra Underground Coal Project 143 Environmental Assessment 152 Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_34 Date: 30/06/09 Drawing size: A3 139 140 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS 150 151 Source: URS Scale: Refer to Scale Bar 148 149 141 147 0 250 500 750m N 142 146 Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 145 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
Further details about the emission sources and estimates are provided in Annex H.
The dispersion modelling results for incremental emissions (ie emissions from operation of the Integra Underground proposal only) are presented in Table 12.3, for the sensitive receptor predicted to experience the highest ground level concentration (GLC) of each respective pollutant. The modelling results are presented for a scenario where an annual operational throughput of 3.5 Mtpa is achieved and a scenario where the potential maximum annual throughput of 4.5 Mtpa is achieved. It is noted that a throughput of 3.5 Mtpa would not be reached before the planned commencement of conveyor transfer of ROM coal to the CHPP in 2010 (or subject to the approval of the deferral application, in 2011). Therefore model results for the 3.5 Mtpa scenario are presented for road and conveyor transport of ROM coal to the CHPP, respectively.
Table 12.3 Summary of Maximum Incremental GLCs
Predicted incremental GLC at the most affected DECC sensitive receptor Criteria Throughput 3.5Mtpa 3.5Mtpa 4.5Mtpa Coal transfer method Road Haulage Conveyor Conveyor
PM10 – 24hour ( g/m3) 8.5 6.2 7.9 50
PM10 – Annual ( g/m3) 1.4 0.8 1.0 30 TSP – Annual ( g/m3) 1.8 0.9 1.1 90 Deposited Dust (g/m2/month) 0.2 0.1 0.1 2 1. Source: Holmes Air Sciences (2009)
The modelling results presented in Table 12.3 show that maximum predicted incremental GLCs are well below the relevant DECC criteria. The highest incremental GLCs will occur during the pre-2010 period when coal is transported to the CHPP via haul trucks. Dust generated during this period, 3 results in a maximum predicted PM10 24 hour GLC of 8.5 g/m which
represents 17% of the DECC PM10 24 hour criterion (refer to Figure 12.2). Once conveyor transfer of coal is in place, modelled concentrations decrease, despite an increase in throughput. Concentration contours for the incremental
PM10 24 hour (4.5 Mtpa) are presented in Figure 12.3.
12.4.2 Particulate Matter – Cumulative Impacts
A cumulative impact assessment was undertaken to provide an understanding of the total dust concentrations and deposition levels likely to be experienced at sensitive receptors over the life of the Project. The cumulative assessment took into account the predicted emissions from the Integra Underground (incremental emissions), proposed Integra Open Cut Project (South Pit Extension and North Open Cut), existing and approved Integra Open Cut operations and five nearby mines (Mt Owen, Ravensworth, Ashton, Rix’s Creek and Glendell). The future emissions estimates for nearby
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 141 A3 Drawing size: Reviewed by: MS 500 750m 3 ³) 250 μg/m 24 Hour Average 10 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment URS JD Refer to Scale Bar 0 Concentration Contours PM ( Project Area Privately-Owned Receptor Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor 74 28 10 Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity. N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_46 Figure 12.2 Client: Project: Date: 30/06/09 Incremental PM10 24 Hour Ground Level Concentration Contours - 3.5 Mtpa Road Haulage - Criteria - 50 g/m Scale: Drawn by: Source: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 152 149 151 INSET 150 148 145 147 146 28 27 26 29 30 25 24 22 7 15 31 12 21 19 32 23 18 33 6 14 5 16 17 8 20 36 3 13 9 11 34 4
1 152
39 40
Road 151 149
41
2.0 37 Bridgman 142 10 2 35 150 38
Road 143 4.0 148 147 146 43
42 144 1.0
Creek 145 44 45 51 50 52 48 46
Stony 53 47 55 49 56 57
54
141
d 62 20.0
10.0 a 139 140 58 63
o 1.0
R
10.0
50.0 59 k
64 20.0 61 o
o r
66
65 b l
68 67 a
F Road
e
l
72 d
d 69 i 73
70 60 M 71
77
138
anCreek Main Creek 78 79 76 Highway
Railway 153
80 Nobles Lane
81 2.0
82 4.0 74 Creek 83 109
87 84
oetRoad Forest
Glennies 108 oetRoad Forest
110 England
85 etsCreek Bettys 106
107 111 tOe alSpur Rail Owen Mt 112
86 Glennies 105 113 128 91 114 154 96
Northern 117 97 129 88
156 90 103 2.0 92 130 125 159 122 101 160 102 163 126 168 131 127 104 132 89 CAMBERWELL
137 Main 133 85
New 106
86
134 1.0 136 135 105
CAMBERWELL 113 91 1.0 154 96 115 90 116 97 88 114 155 96 117 94 164 93 156 98 161 INSET 125 121 92 165 118 99 103 157 122 162 167 158 159 166 124 119 101 102 100 160 89 126 163 169 123 127 168 104 Legend INSET Project Area
Privately-Owned Receptor 85 28 86 89 Mine-Owned, Derelict 74 CAMBERWELL or Unoccupied Receptor 88 10 Concentration Contours 101 92 90 PM10 (μg/m³) 24 Hour Average
93 Bettys Creek 100 16799 100 99 94 105 168 96 91 166 60 169102 165 96 102 98 98 74 58 57 41 164 97 104 55 163 103161 59 162 56 42 61 40 118 Forest Road 118 53 119 Main Creek 38 39 119 117117 54 52 160 Road65
116116 Spur Rail Mt Owen 37 66 51 2.0 36 123 122 115115 62 67 50 43 159 121 114 106 121 68 28 1.0 126 124 125 155 69 29 124 113 30 158 125 70 63 157 156 71 72 49 27 35 31 80 Creek 73 48 44 34 26 64 33 127 76 79 47 154 Road 46 k 32 25 83 81 4.0 oo Notes: Forest Road lbr Northern Fa 45 Boundaries offset for clarity. 82 e Stony dl 24 Main 77 id M Creek Glennies Nobles Lane 78 23 84 Road 22 85 CAMBERWELL 86 Railway New 89 20 88 92 90 21 101 Creek 10.0 91 134 168 19 102 96 105 87 1.0 104 97 153 163 103 20.0 160 117 135 122 18 159 114 106 126 Glennies 125 156 113 17 127 154 2.0 112 16 107 200 128 130 14 110 108 129 131 15 111 109 13 Road 11 10 12 England 9 132 8 7 133 6 20.0 5
136 4
Bridgman Figure 12.3 137 2 3 Incremental PM10 24 Hour Ground 1 Level Concentration Contours - 152 150 4.5 Mtpa Conveyor Transfer - 3 148 151 Criteria - 50 g/m 149 Highway 147 146 145 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 138 144 INSET Project: Integra Underground Coal Project 143 Environmental Assessment 152 Drawing No: 0061887hv_28 Date: 30/06/09 Drawing size: A3 139 140 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS 150 151 Source: URS Scale: Refer to Scale Bar 148 149 2.0 147 0 250 500 750m 141 N 142 146 Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 145 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
mines were based on data presented in the respective EISs/EAs for these mines.
To ensure the assessment captured the maximum potential impact, six modelling scenarios were selected to represent changes to emissions associated with the proposed Integra Open Cut as emissions due to underground mining will not vary significantly over time. The proposed Integra Open Cut Project has a maximum life expectancy of approximately nine years. Once mining associated with the Integra Open Cut Project has been completed, the emissions would be expected to decline.
Scenarios representative of different years of operations and the two alternate open cut pit mine plans identified for the proposed extension to the Integra Open Cut were selected. The first mine plan includes mining the full extent of the proposed open cut and can only proceed if the property “Dulwich” is acquired by ICO. The second mine plan limits mining to the area south of Dulwich (Part Pit Extent) and will eventuate if the Dulwich property is not acquired by ICO. The modelled scenarios are identified in Table 12.4.
Table 12.4 Modelling Scenarios for Cumulative Impact Assessment
Scenario Proposed Open Cut Year Description Extension mine plan 1 Full/ Part Pit Extent 1 First year of the proposed expansion of the open cut operation. 2 Full Pit Extent 4 Maximum overburden production in the open cut operations. 3 Full Pit Extent 6 Year of ‘average’ impact. 4 Full Pit Extent 8 Maximum coal production in the open cut operations. 5 Part Pit Extent 3 Coal extraction from the northern end of the pit, ie close to the Dulwich property. 6 Part Pit Extent 6 Year of ‘average’ impact.
Table 12.5 presents the dispersion modelling results for cumulative emissions for the sensitive receptor predicted to experience the highest GLC of each respective pollutant, under each respective scenario and identifies each residence where exceedances of the DECC criteria are predicted.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 142
Table 12.5 Summary of Maximum Cumulative GLCs
Mining of Full-Pit Extent (acquisition of Mining of Part-Pit DECC Dulwich property) Extent Criteria Scenario 1 Scenario Scenario Scenario Scenario Scenario 2 3 4 5 6 Predicted cumulative GLC at the most affected sensitive receptor
PM10 – 55 57 58 58 68 58 30 Annual TSP – 113 116 117 119 124 118 90 Annual Deposited 8 5 5 5 8 5 4 Dust Receptor numbers where exceedance of the DECC Criteria is predicted.
PM10 – 45, 85, 86, 87*, 78, 109*, 138 108*, 138, 153* 108*, 30 Annual 88*, 89, 90, 91*, 138 109*, 138 109*, 138 92, 93, 94*, 95*, 99*, 101, 105*, 138, 153*,161*, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170
TSP – 89, 138, 153* 138 138 138 138, 153* 138 90 Annual
Deposited 45, 85, 86, 88*, 138 138 138 138, 153* 138 4 Dust 89, 90, 138, 153* 1. Source: Adapted from Holmes Air Sciences (2009) 2. Predicted exceedances are in bold. 3. * indicates privately-owned
The data in Table 12.5 shows that when taking into account emissions from the Project in conjunction with emissions from the proposed Integra Open Cut, approved Integra North Open Cut and five other local mines, the maximum ground level concentrations are predicted to exceed the relevant DECC criteria at some receptors under all mining scenarios considered. The greatest number of exceedances of the DECC criteria are predicted to occur in Scenario
1, when the criterion for annual average PM10 is predicted to be exceeded at 25 sensitive receptors (detailed in Table 12.5) that year. Of these exceedances, 9 are predicted to occur at private receptors – 87, 88, 91, 94, 95, 99, 105, 153 and 161 (refer to Figure 12.4). Contours for all parameters are presented in Annex H.
12.4.3 Combustion Emissions
Particulate exhaust emissions from mobile equipment are expected to be a minor contributor of overall particulate emissions from the site. Additionally, emission factors for mining activities and within the modelling have been
derived from measurements that cover all PM10 emissions associated with a
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 143
unit operation, including exhaust emissions. Therefore, adding exhaust emissions to the fugitive emissions would involve some double counting and over estimation of emissions (NSW Minerals Council 2000). Consequently, combustion emissions have not been considered further in this assessment.
12.4.4 Odour
Atmospheric emissions of coal gas provide the potential for odourous emissions at the site. The facility will comply with the legislative requirement to not cause or permit the emissions of any offensive odour from the premises (Section 129 of the PoEO Act). Therefore, odour has not been considered further in this assessment.
12.5 MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING MEASURES
12.5.1 Proposed Dust Management and Control Procedures
As nearby rural/residential areas to the south-east and north-west of the Project Area are in the prevailing downwind direction during winter/spring and summer/autumn periods of the year respectfully, it will be necessary to ensure that dust emissions are kept to the minimum practicable level in order to minimise potential impacts.
ICO have in place or propose to implement, a number of procedures to manage dust emissions from both the Open Cut and Underground operations. These procedures are summarised in Table 12.6 and were included in the model simulations.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 144 A3 Drawing size: Reviewed by: MS 500 750m 3 ³) 250 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment URS Refer to Scale Bar SP 0 Concentration Contours PM10 (μg/m Annual Average Project Area Privately-Owned Receptor Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor 74 28 10 Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity. N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_29 Figure 12.4 Client: Project: Date: 30/06/09 Cumulative PM10 Annual Ground Level Concentration Contours - 3.5 Mtpa Road Haulage - Criteria - 30 g/m Scale: Drawn by: Source: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 152 152 149 151 149 151 INSET 150 148 145 147 146 150 148 147 146 28 27 26 145 145 29 30 25 24 22
7 10 15 31 12 21 17 19 32 23 5 18 33 6 14 16 8 20 36 3 4 13 9 11 34 1
152
39
40 Road 151 149
41 143 37 Bridgman 142 10 20 2 35 150 38 Road 148 147 146 43 42 144
Creek 145
50 44
100 45 51 50 52
50 48 46
Stony 53 49 47 55
100 56 62 57 141 d 50
a
139 100 200 140 58 54 63
o
R 20 59 k
64 61 o
o
r
66 50
65 b l
68 67 a
F
Road
69
70 e
l
72 d
d
73 i 60 M 71 138
77
anCreek Main Creek 78 79 76
153 Highway 81 Railway
80 Nobles Lane
82
50 74 Creek 83 109
108
87 84
oetRoad Forest
Glennies
107 oetRoad Forest
110 England
85 etsCreek Bettys 106
111 20 tOe alSpur Rail Owen Mt 112
86 Glennies 105 113 128 91 114 154 96
Northern 117 97
129 88 50 156 90 103 92 130 125 159 122 101 160 102 163 126 168
127 100 104 132 89 131
CAMBERWELL
200
50 200 137
100 Main 85 133 New
106
86 134 100 136 135 105 CAMBERWELL 113 91 154 96 115 90 116 97 88 114 155 96 117 94 164 93 156 98 161 INSET 125 121 92 165 118 99 103 157 122 162 167 158 159 166 124 119 101 102 100 160 89 126 163 169 123 127 168 104
Table 12.6 Control Procedures
Source Control Procedures Coal handling areas / stockpiles Maintain coal-handling areas / stockpiles in a moist condition using water carts to minimise wind-blown and traffic-generated dust.
Coal transfer Water sprays are used at the longwall and development face to control particulates, which means that the coal conveyed to the surface has already been wetted to control dust.
Areas disturbed by mining Disturb only the minimum area necessary for mining. Reshape, topsoil and rehabilitate completed overburden emplacement areas as soon as practicable after the completion of overburden tipping.
ROM coal stockpiles Have water sprays available on ROM coal stockpiles and use sprays to reduce airborne dust, as required.
Haul road dust All roads and trafficked areas will be watered as required using water trucks to minimise the generation of dust.
All haul roads will have edges clearly defined with marker posts or equivalent to control their locations, especially when crossing large overburden emplacement areas.
Obsolete roads will be ripped and re-vegetated.
Minor roads Development of minor roads will be limited and the locations of these will be clearly defined.
Minor roads used regularly for access etc will be treated to control dust.
Obsolete roads will be ripped and re-vegetated.
Topsoil Stripping Access tracks used by topsoil stripping equipment during their loading and unloading cycle will be watered. Topsoil Stockpiling Long term topsoil stockpiles, not used for over 3 months will be re-vegetated. Drilling Dust aprons will be lowered during drilling. Drills will be equipped with dust extraction cyclones, or water injection systems. Water injection or dust suppression sprays will be used when high levels of dust are being generated. Blasting Meteorological conditions will be assessed prior to blasting.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 145
Source Control Procedures Adequate stemming will be used at all times. Real-time monitoring Real-time air quality monitoring will be used in areas predicted to be susceptible to exceedances of the 24-hour average PM10 goal. Remedial action will be taken should the 24-hour concentrations approach the cumulative assessment criteria of 150 g/m3. Ventilation shaft Due to OHS regulations regarding underground air quality, dust generated underground will be minimised as far as practicable at source. Currently this includes the application of water and / or use of dust suppressants.
Source: Adapted from Holmes Air Sciences (2009)
12.5.2 Monitoring
Air monitoring will continue in accordance with the Integra Underground EMS procedure EMP_0002, Air Quality Monitoring Program. This will incorporate the following:
monitoring of weather conditions at the Integra meteorological station;
monitoring of TSP using high volume air samplers (HVASs)at the three existing monitoring locations (HV1, HV2, and HV3);
monitoring of PM10 using HVASs at the two existing monitoring locations (HV1 and HV3);
monitoring of dust fallout using the current network of deposition gauges, or as otherwise approved by the DECC. Should Dulwich be acquired, HV2 would be relocated to a site approved by the DECC; and
a real-time PM10 monitor (TEOM) at the location agreed with the DECC in accordance with Conditions of Consent for North Open Cut. This will be located in the vicinity of Residence 48.
Whilst the TEOM is to be used as an operational management tool, it will also provide information on short-term air quality not obtainable from HVAS’s or deposition jars.
It should also be noted that any additional air quality monitoring undertaken as a consequence of the approval of the Open Cut Project would provide information which is relevant to the Underground operation.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 146
12.6 CONCLUSION
Annual average particulate matter concentrations and dust deposition rates due to project emissions are predicted to be well below the relevant DECC criteria at sensitive receptors.
This assessment also considered emissions from the Project in conjunction with emissions from the Integra Open Cut operation and five other local mines (a cumulative assessment). That assessment showed that at up to 11 privately-owned receptors there would be exceedances of the relevant DECC cumulative criteria over the lifetime of the Project.
Underground mining will continue at the cessation of mining at the Integra Open Cut. At this time, ICO’s contribution to air quality emissions will be as per the modelling results presented for the Integra Underground Project when assessed in isolation.
ICO will implement a number of management measures to ensure that emissions to atmosphere are minimised and an air quality monitoring program which can be used to verify the accuracy of the modelling results presented in this report. Monitoring will also be used to inform and develop operational controls to minimise impacts to local air quality.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 147
13 GREENHOUSE GAS
13.1 INTRODUCTION
Emissions of greenhouse gases will result from activities associated with the Project. This chapter provides an assessment of the greenhouse gas impacts arising from the Project by estimating Project specific emissions, putting those emissions in context and identifying measures to be adopted to minimise emissions and residual greenhouse gas impact.
In the context of this assessment, greenhouse gas emissions refer to the six direct greenhouse gases regulated by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol, namely:
carbon dioxide (CO2);
methane (CH4);
nitrous oxide (N2O);
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs);
perfluorocarbons (PFCs); and
sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
Of these, CO2 is the main greenhouse gas responsible for the anthropogenic influence on the heat balance in the atmosphere.
13.2 GREENHOUSE GAS LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE
The two current international frameworks addressing the issue of climate change are the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol. These frameworks guide the reporting of greenhouse gas emissions internationally, and form the basis of the approach to estimating greenhouse gas emissions.
In Australia, the principal guidance for greenhouse gas emissions estimation is the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change’s (DCC) National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (Measurement) Technical Guidelines 2008. The Technical Guidelines use emission factors from the DCC’s National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors, updated in October 2008. The NGA Factors provide a single source of current greenhouse gas emission factors for use by Australian organisations. Consequently, this assessment uses the NGA Factors to calculate greenhouse gas emissions associated with the Project.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 148
13.2.1 Global Warming Potential
The global warming potential of various gases has been defined as the
warming effect relative to CO2. This enables the effect of the various
greenhouse gases to be converted into the equivalent quantity of CO2 required
to give the same effect in absorbing solar radiation (CO2-e).
The various greenhouse gases absorb radiation at different wavelengths and with different efficiency. Further, the lifetime of the gases in the atmosphere must be taken into account, as the longer they remain in the atmosphere, the greater their overall effects. The lifetime chosen to express global warming potential is typically 100 years.
The NGA Factors adopts the following Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) 1996 global warming potential values for a 100-year time horizon.
carbon dioxide: 1
methane: 21
nitrous oxide: 310
hydrofluorocarbons: 140 – 11,700 (depending on the molecule)
perfluorocarbons: 6,500 – 9,200 (depending on the molecule)
sulphur hexafluoride: 23,900.
Using these values, methane (CH4) therefore has a global warming potential
21 times greater than CO2, and nitrous oxide (N2O) 310 times greater than
CO2.
13.2.2 Direct and Indirect Emissions
Emissions of greenhouse gases from the Project can be categorised as ‘direct’ and ‘indirect’ emissions.
The NGA Factors adopt the emissions categories of the international reporting framework of The Greenhouse Gas Protocol: A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (World Resources Institute and World Business Council for Sustainable Development) namely:
Scope 1, which covers direct emissions from sources within the boundary of an organisation such as fuel combustion, manufacturing and landfill processes;
Scope 2, which covers indirect emissions from the consumption of purchased electricity, steam or heat produced by another organisation. Scope 2 emissions result from the combustion of fuel to generate the
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electricity, steam or heat but do not include emissions associated with the production of the fuel. Scopes 1 and 2 are carefully defined to ensure that two or more organisations do not report the same emissions in the same scope; and
Scope 3, which includes all other indirect emissions that are a consequence of an organisation’s activities but are not from sources owned, or controlled, by the organisation (ie produced by third-party organisations outside of the Project Area).
13.2.3 Boundary of Assessment
The boundary for this greenhouse gas impact assessment has been defined as those emissions directly attributable to underground mining in the Project Area.
For the Project, Scope 1, or direct emissions, will result from the release of fugitive methane emissions from the coal extraction process, and the combustion of fossil fuels (diesel) in equipment used on site. Scope 2, indirect emissions, will primarily result from electricity consumption at the CHPP by production equipment and in administration buildings.
In addition to Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, this assessment also includes major Scope 3 emissions indirectly associated with the Project. Precedent set by the New South Wales Land and Environment Court in the case of the Anvil Hill Coal Project, has established that in accordance with the EP&A Act and the principles of ecological sustainable development, greenhouse gas impact assessments in NSW should include Scope 3 emissions. Whilst the inclusion of Scope 3 emissions may result in inconsistencies in international greenhouse gas emission reporting in that it can result in ‘double counting’ of emissions, it provides an indication of the magnitude of Scope 3 emissions with respect to Scope 1 and 2.
Scope 3 emissions considered within the boundary of this assessment will result from indirect emissions associated with the use of coal in off-site steel manufacturing and energy generation processes, diesel locomotive emissions associated with transport of product coal to port for export, and from indirect emissions associated with the extraction of fuels to supply diesel and electricity. Other Scope 3 indirect emissions associated with the Project have been determined to be beyond the boundary of this assessment. Consistent with the methodologies described, Scope 3 emissions not included within the greenhouse gas emission calculations for this environmental assessment are:
disposal of waste generated at the mine;
employee business travel;
employees commuting to and from work;
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extraction, production and transport of other purchased materials and goods;
out-sourced activities;
sea transport of coal; and
transport of materials and waste products off site.
13.3 METHODOLOGY
13.3.1 Assumptions
The following assumptions have been made for the purposes of this assessment.
Indicatively, mining in the Hebden and Barrett Seam will cease by 2031.
70% of product coal transported to Newcastle Port will be used in steel manufacturing overseas and 30% for thermal coal burnt in overseas electricity generation facilities.
Fugitive methane emissions are assumed to be uncontrolled for the purposes of the assessment, ie the assessment has ignored the presence of the existing mine gas-fired Glennies Creek Power Station which, over the past twelve months, has utilised approximately 8.5 Mm3 methane. Whilst ICO is committed to minimising the greenhouse impact of fugitive methane emissions by flaring or reuse, details regarding the volume of gas captured are currently being investigated as part of ICO’s Gas Reservoir Modelling and Gas Emission Modelling. Therefore, results presented for fugitive methane emissions in this assessment are conservative.
A conservative assumption that all carbon (ie 100%) within coal is oxidised and emitted to atmosphere during combustion processes.
Fuel usage, ROM coal production, and saleable product data is based on information provided by ICO and includes estimates extrapolated from existing operations as well as mine planning data.
13.3.2 Estimating Emissions
Factors for calculating emissions of greenhouse gases are generally expressed in the form of a quantity of a given greenhouse gas emitted per unit of energy (kg CO2-e /GJ), fuel (t CH4/t coal) or a similar measure.
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Emission factors are used to calculate greenhouse gas emissions by multiplying the factor (eg kg CO2/GJ energy in diesel) with activity data (eg kilolitres x energy density of diesel used).
Table 13.1 details the greenhouse gas emission sources included in this assessment.
Table 13.1 Greenhouse Gas Emission Sources included in this Assessment
Scope 1 – Direct Scope 2 –Indirect Emissions Scope 3 – Other Indirect Emissions Emissions from Purchased Energy Fugitive methane Electricity usage (mining Emissions from use of exported coal from extraction of equipment, coal processing products coal plant and administration) Fuel use onsite – Transport of product (by rail) Diesel Indirect emissions for fuel extraction and line loss associated with electricity supply
Indirect emissions for fuel extraction associated with diesel supply
Of the emissions sources identified in Table 13.1, it is important to note that Scope 1 and 2 sources are those under direct management control of ICO. That is, ICO can implement measures which will directly affect emissions associated with these sources and, in the case of electricity usage, through reducing consumption.
Scope 3 sources are not under direct management control and therefore the opportunity to reduce emissions from these sources is less direct.
Table 13.2 details the emission estimates for Scope 1 sources.
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Table 13.2 Scope 1 Source Emission Estimates
Source Year Activity Level Scope 1 Emission Estimated Factor Emissions (t
CO2-e)
Total fugitive CH4 2009 312,461 ROM coal 0.305 - Emission 95,301 emissions from coal extracted (t)1 Factor 'gassy mine'
extraction process (t CO2-e/ t ROM coal)2 2010-2031 56,408,602 ROM 17,204,623 coal extracted (t)1
Sub-Total 17,299,924
Total fugitive CH4 2009 312,461 ROM coal 0.014 - Emission 4,374 emissions from post extracted (t) Factor 'gassy mine'
mining activities eg (t CO2-e/ t ROM goaf leakage coal)3 2010-2031 56,408,602 ROM 789,721 coal extracted (t)
Sub-Total 794,095 Total diesel 2009 1,560 kL 0.0695 - Emission 4,185 consumption Factor (t CO2- e/GJ)4 2010-2031 34,320 kL 92,070 Sub-Total 96,255 Total 18,190,274 1. ROM coal extracted from underground coal seams. 2. Scope 1 emission factor for ‘gassy mine’ from Table 6; NGA Factors 2008. 3. Scope 1 emission factor for post mining activities ‘gassy mine’ from Table 7; NGA Factors 2008. 4. Scope 1 Diesel fuel combustion emission factor from Table 3; NGA Factors 2008.
As highlighted in Table 13.2 fugitive methane emissions during mining of the coal seams represents by far the greatest source of Scope 1 emissions for the Project.
Table 13.3 details the emission estimates for Scope 2.
Table 13.3 Scope 2 Source Emission Estimates Source Year Activity Level Emission Estimated Emissions
Factor (t CO2-e/ annum)
Energy from electricity 2009 38,000 MW 0.89 tCO2-e 33,820 consumption (mining /MWh 1 equipment, coal processing plant, and administration) 2010-2031 1,598,500 MW 1,422,665
Total 1,456,485 1. NSW emission factor for consumption of electricity from Table 39; NGA Factors
Of Scope 1 and 2 emissions over the life of the Project, fugitive methane
emissions (direct emissions) represent 18,094 Mt CO2-e or approximately 92 per cent of direct greenhouse gas emissions due to the proposed underground
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mining. Figure 13.1 presents the percentage contributions of Scope 1 and 2 emissions sources.
Figure 13.1 Greenhouse Emissions Sources – Scope 1 and 2
Scope 2 - Scope 1 - Diesel Purchased 0.49% Elec tr ic ity 7.4%
Scope 1 - Fugitive Methane 92.1%
Table 13.4 shows the emission estimates for Scope 3 sources, including; emissions associated with the use of saleable product as coking coal in off-site steel manufacturing processes; emissions associated with the use of coal for power generation; emissions associated with rail transportation of product coal to Newcastle Port, and emissions associated with the extraction (and transmission loss in the case of electricity supply) of fuels to supply diesel and electricity.
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Table 13.4 Scope 3 Source Emission Estimates
Source Year Activity Emission Factor Estimated Level Emissions
(t CO2/annum)
Use of product as 2009 128,281t 2.757 (t CO2-e/t fuel) 353,714 coking coal in steel - Coking Coal. 1 manufacturing 2010-2031 26,665,561 t 73,525,839
Sub-Total 73,879,553
Burning of product 2009 529,326 0.08843 t CO2-e/ GJ 1,263,824 for power generation 2010-2031 11,115,845 26,540,303
Sub-Total 27,804,126
Transport of product 2009 183,259 t 0.0000123 t CO2-e/ 203 to port - diesel train net t coal per km. 2 2010-2031 38,093,685 t 42,170
Sub-Total 42,373
Indirect emissions for 2009 38,000 MW 0.17 t CO2-e MWh. 3 6,460 fuel extraction and line loss associated 2010-2031 1,598,500 271,745 with electricity MW supply Sub-Total 278,205
Indirect emissions for 2009 1,560 Kl. 0.0053 t CO2-e 319 fuel extraction associated with 2010-2031 32,760 Kl 7,021 diesel supply Sub-Total 7,340 Total 102,011,597
1. Emission factor for coking coal in accordance with NGA Factors 2008, converted to CO2-e. 2. According to a study commissioned by QR Network Access (2002) the Australian average CO2-e emission rate for rail transport is 12.3 g/net tonne-km (see Holmes Air Sciences Air Quality Impact Assessment – GHG Emissions Integra Open Cut Proposal, 2009). 3. Emission factor for Scope 3 electricity as in accordance with NGA Factors 2008; Table 39. 4. Scope 3 diesel fuel combustion emission factor - NGA Factors 2008; Table 38. 5. Emissions assume that the overseas power station would have similar emissions to a power station in NSW burning black coal.
13.3.3 Summary of Emissions
Table 13.5 summarises the total estimated Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions due to the Project.
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Table 13.5 Summary of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Scope Source Estimated Total Emissions
(t CO2-e/) Scope 1 Fugitive methane emissions 18,094,019 Diesel consumption 96,255 Total Scope 1 18,190,274 Scope 2 Electricity consumption 1,456,485 Total Scope 1 + 2 19,646,759 Scope 3 Use of product as coking coal in steel 73,879,553 manufacturing Use of product for power generation 27,804,126 Transport of product to port - diesel train 42,373 Indirect emissions for fuel extraction and 278,205 line loss associated with electricity supply Indirect emissions for fuel extraction 7,340 associated with diesel supply Total Scope 3 102,011,597 Total for Scopes 1,2 & 3 121,658,356
Figure 13.2 shows Scope 3 emissions (emissions outside ICO’s boundary and
direct control) to represent 102 Mt CO2-e or approximately 84 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions. Fugitive methane emissions (during and post mining) represent the majority (18 Mt or 92 per cent) of Scope 1 and 2 total emissions and 15 per cent of total greenhouse gas emissions.
Figure 13.2 Summary of Emissions by Scope
Scope 3 Emissions Scope 1 - Fugitive 83.9% Methane Scope 1+2 14.9% Emis s ions 16.1%
Scope 2 - Purchas Electricity 1.2%
Scope 1 - Diesel 0.08%
13.4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The Project is anticipated to mine approximately 57 Mt of ROM coal over operational lifetime to produce approximately 38.3 Mt of product coal for export. Total greenhouse gas emissions over the lifetime of the Project have
been calculated at 121,658,356 t CO2-e, or 5,289,497 tonnes annually.
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Total emissions of direct greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2) are
conservatively estimated to be 19,646,759 tonnes CO2-e. Based on direct emission figures, the greenhouse intensity of the Project equates to
approximately 0.34 tCO2-e/t of ROM coal and 0.51 tCO2-e/t product coal. Emissions intensity is calculated by dividing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by tonnes of coal produced annually. The greenhouse gas emissions will be verified once production starts and be reported annually.
13.4.1 National Emissions Comparison
The estimated annual Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from the Project on
average are 854,207 t CO2-e, assuming that no gas is used for power generation. National annual greenhouse gas emissions were estimated for Australia by the Australian Greenhouse Emissions Information System in 2006
at 576,035,430 tonnes of CO2-e of which NSW contributed 159,981,590 tonnes.
Annual emissions from the Project (Scope 1 and 2) represents approximately 0.0015% of the Australian annual total (National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, Department of Climate Change, 2006) and 0.0053% of NSW emissions.
It is important to highlight that estimated Scope 1 and 2 annual emissions calculated in this assessment represent conservative emission estimates. More specifically, estimated emissions are based on the assumption that all fugitive methane, which represents by far the greatest direct emission from the operation, will be uncontrolled.
13.5 IMPACT ASSESSMENT –GLOBAL CONTEXT
Global increases in emissions of greenhouse gases have been shown to result in climate change. The most prominent changes resulting from an increase in average global temperature predicted by the scientific community include:
sea level rise;
flora and fauna extinction; and
changes in water supply, rainfall patterns, run-off and river flows.
A number of scientific reviewed references are available which describe these impacts on a global scale, eg IPCC Fourth Assessment Report and, in an Australian context, CSIRO Climate Change: Projections for Australia. Nonetheless, any long term predictions are subject to considerable uncertainty and may underestimate or overestimate impacts from climate change.
As the relationship between global warming and greenhouse gas concentrations is not linear, there is no accepted method to determine the contribution of a given emission of greenhouse gas to a change in the climate. Nonetheless, based on the magnitude of emissions estimated from the Project,
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it can be stated that Project emissions will make only a minor contribution to the effects of global warming as it is the cumulative effect of many thousands of such sources that ultimately bring about climate change.
This highlights the problem of dealing with climate change on a project-by- project basis, with the exception of ensuring that developments are proactive in employing methods and equipment that are as energy efficient as possible.
13.6 MINIMISING ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
ICO has identified a number of options to considerably reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of the operation, including:
capture of coal seam methane from the Hebden and Barrett Seams for the purposes of energy generation; and
the flaring of coal seam methane to prevent free venting to atmosphere of fugitive methane emissions not utilised for energy generation.
A portion of methane extracted during goaf drainage of the Middle Liddell Seam is currently being captured and supplied to the Glennies Creek Power Station. Average monthly gas consumption at the Glennies Creek Power Station for the period November 2007 to August 2008 was approximately 704,000 m3. Goaf drainage of the Hebden and Barrett Seams is also anticipated during operations, and it is intended that, to the extent practicable, fugitive methane captured in this manner will be used for power generation.
Although only required to a limited extent to date, it is expected that increasingly pre-mining gas drainage within areas of the Middle Liddell, Hebden and Barrett Seams will be required to enable mining in a safe and efficient manner. ICO anticipate that pre-drained gas will be of a high quality, suitable for electricity generation. The capture and use of methane gas from the Hebden and Barrett Seams for electricity generation will considerably reduce Scope 1 fugitive emissions of natural gas and, consequently, Scope 2 emissions associated with the consumption of purchased electricity from the grid.
Fugitive methane emissions represent by far the largest direct emission from the proposed Project (92 per cent). Given that emissions data presented in this assessment do not take into consideration the capture of coal seam methane for use in electricity generation, it is anticipated that actual Scope 1 and 2 emissions will be considerably lower than those presented in this assessment.
ICO has committed to continue investigation of measures for the capture and preferential use of fugitive methane from all underground coal sources. Where the use of the methane for power generation is not viable and where practicable, flaring will be adopted.
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In addition to the above, a suite of other energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction initiatives will be implemented as follows.
The efficiency of all new and upgraded mobile and fixed equipment will be considered during procurement for fuel powered equipment.
Energy audits will be held when practicable to ensure that the mine is using current practice techniques to minimise energy use and is operating at optimum energy levels.
Ensuring equipment is maintained to retain high levels of energy efficiency.
The inventory of emissions developed for this assessment will be maintained.
Emissions and abatement strategies will be reported annually as part of the internal environmental reporting, National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting obligations and the Annual Environmental Management Report.
These greenhouse mitigation and monitoring mechanisms and programs will be used throughout the life of the proposed mining operations.
13.7 CONCLUSION
This chapter has provided an assessment of the greenhouse gas impact from the proposed Integra Underground Coal Project. The impact assessment has presented estimates of direct emissions, and indirect emissions beyond the operational control of the Project.
In this assessment, total emissions over the lifetime of the Project (direct and
indirect) have been conservatively calculated as being 125,516,896 t CO2–e, representing an emissions profile of 5,457,256 t CO2–e aggregated annually.
Direct (Scope 1 and 2) emissions comprise 19,646,759 t CO2-e, or approximately 15 per cent of total emissions. Aggregated annually, direct emissions from the
site have been estimated at 854,207 t CO2-e. Fugitive methane emissions represent the overwhelming contribution to overall direct emissions, representing 18 Mt or 92 per cent of all direct emissions. Other direct emissions contributions are from purchased electricity, 7.4per cent, and diesel consumption, 0.49 per cent.
Scope 3, or indirect emissions comprise greenhouse gas emissions from use of exported coal for steel manufacturing; transport of coal by rail to the port; indirect emissions from fuel extraction and line loss associated with electricity and diesel supply. Indirect emissions contribute approximately 84 per cent of all emissions from the Project. Emissions associated with the use of coal for steel manufacturing representing by far the greatest contribution to this predicted emissions body, being over 99 per cent.
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In calculating the direct emissions profile, it is conservatively estimated that the Project will contribute approximately 0.0015 per cent of emissions to the Australian annual greenhouse gas emissions total and approximately 0.0053 per cent of emissions to the NSW annual total.
In recognition of ICO’s intention to minimise the greenhouse gas emissions impact of the Project, a number of greenhouse emissions abatement measures have been presented. It is anticipated that the continued employment or implementation of these mitigation measures will result in greenhouse gas emissions considerably lower than those presented in this assessment.
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14 NOISE AND VIBRATION
14.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides an overview of ICO’s approach to the management of noise and vibration, discusses the results of modelling undertaken as part of this assessment and outlines management measures that will be implemented to mitigate or avoid potential noise impacts resulting from the proposal. This chapter summarises the Integra Underground Coal Project Noise Impact Assessment (ERM 2009) presented as Annex I.
The assessment referenced the DECC Industrial Noise Policy (INP, 2000) and Environmental Noise Control Manual (ENCM).
To avoid duplication of tasks, this report has been prepared with reference to the Integra Open Cut Coal Project Noise and Vibration Assessment (Heggies, 2009) that has provided several pieces of information required for this assessment including background information, derived project specific noise criteria (PSNC), topographic information and some sound power information (for the CHPP and associated plant), the rail transport assessment, and several aspects of the cumulative noise assessment.
Given that the proposed Integra Underground Project would not result in any increase in coal production beyond that already approved, the proposed underground operations would not necessitate any increase in existing train movements along the Main Northern Railway Line. Therefore a detailed rail assessment has not been undertaken as part of this assessment.
Traffic noise associated with this project would not change from the previous assessment, notwithstanding the specialist noise report (Appendix I) demonstrates compliance with the ECRTN, therefore traffic noise impacts have not been considered in this chapter.
Construction noise emissions associated with this project have also been demonstrated to be below the relevant noise criteria (Appendix I) additionally, is is expected that levels would also comply with the soon to be released NSW Construction Noise Guidelines (DECC, 2009) and therefore construction noise impacts have not been discused in this chapter.
Blasting required as part of this Project will be undertaken underground and will utilise very low maximum instantaneous charges (MIC) of less than 2kg. Given the distance to the nearest potentially affected residences would be in the excess of 300 metres and the low MIC, an assessment of blast emissions was not warranted in this assessment.
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14.2 ACOUSTIC GLOSSARY
Environmental noise levels are commonly expressed in dB(A). The A- weighting scale approximates the average human hearing response and enables comparison of the intensity of noise with different frequency characteristics. Noise from environmental sources such as vehicles often varies with time. For this reason, noise emissions from such sources are often described in terms of statistical noise descriptors. The following descriptors are commonly used to assess noise.
dB(A) Noise level measurement units are decibels (dB). The “A” weighting indicates that a filter has been applied to the measured results to mimic the human response to noise. Lmax - The absolute maximum noise level in a noise sample. L10 - The noise level which is exceeded for 10 per cent of the time and approximates the average of the maximum noise levels. L90 - The noise level exceeded for 90 per cent of the time and approximates the average of the minimum noise levels. The L90 level is often referred to as the “background” noise level and is commonly used as a basis for determining noise criteria for assessment purposes. Leq - This level represents the "equivalent" or average noise energy during a measurement period. The Leq (24 hour) noise descriptor simply refers to the Leq noise level calculated over a 24 hour period. Indeed, any of the above noise descriptors may be defined in this way, with an accompanying time period (eg. L10 (20 minute)) as required. Other terms commonly used in noise assessments include:
Sound Power Level Lw or SWL - This is a measure of the total power radiated by a source. The Sound Power of a source is a fundamental property of the source and is independent of the surrounding environment; Lp - Sound Pressure Level - The level of sound pressure, expressed in decibels, as measured by a standard sound level meter with a microphone. This differs from Lw in that this is the received sound as opposed to the sound ‘intensity’; RBL – The Rating Background Level (RBL) is an overall single figure background level representing each assessment period over the whole monitoring period. The RBL is used to determine the intrusiveness criteria for noise assessment purposes and is the median of the ABLs. ABL - Assessment Background Level (ABL) is defined in the INP as a single figure background level for each assessment period (day, evening and night). It is the tenth percentile of the measured L90 statistical noise levels; and PSNC - Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC) are target noise levels for a particular industrial noise source or industry. They are based on the most stringent of the intrusive criteria or amenity criteria. Which of the two criteria is most stringent is determined by measuring the level and nature of existing noise in the area surrounding the actual noise generating industry.
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14.3 ASSESSED RECEPTORS
For simplicity, this assessment has adopted a total of eighteen Noise Assessment Goups (NAG) of residences located within approximately 5 km of Integra Operations. The residences have been grouped together based on their noise environments taking into account such factors as fauna, waterways, vegetation and topography and also their proximity to mines, road and rail traffic.
Noise Assessment Groups (NAG) along with the adopted amenity noise emissions for receptors within the specific catchments surrounding the Integra Operations are presented inTable 14.1.
Table 14.1 Noise Assessment Groups for Receptors
NAG 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 A B C D F G 80 84 87 88 103 132 108 142 2 5 7 50 22 45 47 44 65 82 77 85 106 91 104 133 109 3 6 12 51 23 46 63 48 66 78 86 94 111 137 110 4 8 14 52 24 64 49 67 79 170 95 112 130 153 143 9 15 53 25 68 81 96 118 131 107 144 10 16 54 26 71 83 99 120 134 145 11 17 55 27 72 100 121 134 146 13 18 56 28 73 105 123 136 147 19 57 29 76 161 125 148 20 62 30 69 90 126 149 21 58 31 70 92 129 150 59 32 74 93 139 151 60 34 75 97 154 152 61 35 98 156 1 36 101 157 37 Receptor 102 159 38 Number 155 89 39 162 113 40 163 114 41 164 115 42 165 116 43 166 117 33 167 119 168 122 169 124 127 128 138 140 141 158 160 Note : Mine owned receptors identified in bold.
The receptor locations and NAGs are shown in Figure 14.1.
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Privately-Owned Receptor 2 85 28 86 89 Mine-Owned, Derelict 5 74 CAMBERWELL or Unoccupied Receptor 88 1 Noise Assessment Groups 101 92 90
93 Bettys Creek 100 167 99 94 168 91 105 166 95 169 165 96 4 60 102 5 98 57 97 74 58 41 104 164 55 163 161 59 103 56 42 162 61 40 118 Forest Road 119 Main Creek 38 39 117 54 53 52
160 Road65 tOe alSpur Rail Mt Owen 12 116 F 51 37 66 36 123 122 115 62 50 67 43 159 121 114 106 3 68 28 126 124 125 155 69 A 29 158 113 71 70 49 157 156 63 30 27 72 D 44 35 34 Creek 73 48 33 31 5 64 C 26 127 154 47 80 79 76 46 k Road 32 81 oo 25 Notes: Forest Road 83 lbr B 45 Northern 82 Fa Boundaries offset for clarity. 1 e Stony dl 24 Main G 77 id M Creek Glennies Nobles Lane 23 84 78 2 Road 22 CAMBERWELL 85 New 86 Railway 89 88 20 90 92 21 101 87 Creek 168 91 134 19 102 96 105 104 97 163 103See Inset 160 117 3 153 18 135 122 106 159 114 126 Glennies 125 156 113 16 127 154 17 112 7 107 11 128 130 108 14 6 5 111 110 131 129 109 15 13 Road 11 10 12 England 9 132 8 7 133 10 6
5
136 137 Bridgman 4 Figure 14.1 2 3 Receptor Locations and Noise 1 Assessment Groups 152 150 148 151 149 Highway 147 146 145 9 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 138 144 INSET Project: Integra Underground Coal Project 5 143 Environmental Assessment 152 Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_61
139 Date: 07/07/09 Drawing size: A3
140 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS 150 Source: URS 5 151 Scale: Refer to Scale Bar 148 149 141 142 147 9 0 250 500 750m N 8 146 Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 145 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
14.4 NOISE ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
14.4.1 Derivation of Project Specific Noise Criteria
The existing acoustic environment and subsequent Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC) as derived in accordance with the INP (see Annex I) have been adopted in this assessment. The following section summarises the intrusive and amenity assessment methodologies.
Intrusive Noise Levels
Table 14.2 identifies each NAG and the associated intrusive noise levels for each assessment period.
Table 14.2 Intrusive Levels LAeq(15minute) (dBA)
NAG Assessment Period Day Evening Night 1 35 38 39 2 36 39 39 3 38 40 40 4 39 48 37 5 50 46 42 6 39 41 38 7 45 42 39 8 42 42 35 9 37 41 39 10 36 41 37 11 38 43 40 12 34 39 35 A 36 39 36 B 35 37 35 C 35 37 35 D 37 41 38 F 36 39 39 G 38 44 40
Amenity Noise Levels
Existing industrial noise sources for several surrounding mines/industries within the vicinity of Underground Project Area have been quantified to determine contributions so that an amenity criterion can be identified for each NAG.
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Noise Amenity Area Types
To ascertain the amenity noise criteria, it is necessary to classify the amenity receiver types in accordance with Table 2.1 of the INP (DECC, 2000). Table 14.3 provides the amenity area classifications for each NAG identified in this assessment.
Table 14.3 Amenity Area Classifications
NAG Indicative Noise Amenity Area 1 Rural 2 Rural 3 Rural 4 Suburban 5 Suburban 6 Rural 7 Rural 8 Suburban 9 Suburban 10 Rural 11 Rural 12 Rural A Rural B Rural C Rural D Rural F Rural G Rural
Determining Noise Amenity
The amenity levels determined for the Integra Underground Project have been established by incorporating maximum noise emissions from several surrounding industries (industrial contribution), including the proposed Integra Open Cut Project (Full Pit Extent), Rix’s Creek, Mt Owen, Ashton, Ravensworth East and Glendell Mines and the Glennies Creek Power Station (Annex I).
Table 14.4 to Table 14.6 present the derived amenity noise levels for each assessment period.
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Table 14.4 Amenity Levels, Day
NAG Total Industrial Recommended Day Amenity Contribution Maximum Amenity Noise Levels Level, dBA Noise Level dBA 1 50 55 53 2 54 55 49 3 46 55 55 4 48 60 60 5 55 60 58 6 47 55 55 7 49 55 55 8 40 60 60 9 44 60 60 10 42 55 55 11 43 55 55 12 47 55 55 A 56 55 47 B 49 55 55 C 46 55 55 D 45 55 55 F 52 55 52 G 47 55 55
Table 14.5 Amenity Noise Levels, Evening
NAG Total Industrial Recommended Evening Evening Contribution Maximum Amenity Amenity Level, dBA Noise Level dBA Noise Levels 1 45 50 48 2 43 50 50 3 43 50 50 4 43 50 50 5 54 50 40 6 42 50 50 7 46 50 48 8 37 50 50 9 39 50 50 10 41 50 50 11 40 50 50 12 44 50 50 A 50 50 42 B 48 50 46 C 42 50 50 D 41 50 50 F 44 50 50 G 43 50 50
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Table 14.6 Amenity Noise Levels, Night
NAG Total Industrial Recommended Night Night Contribution Maximum Amenity Amenity Level, dBA Noise Level dBA Noise Levels 1 47 45 37 2 44 45 39 3 45 45 37 4 43 45 41 5 53 45 43 6 41 45 43 7 49 45 39 8 35 45 45 9 39 45 45 10 41 45 43 11 40 45 43 12 42 45 42 A 46 45 37 B 41 45 43 C 41 45 43 D 40 45 37 F 43 45 41 G 43 45 41
14.4.2 Project Specific Noise Criteria
Table 14.7 presents the derived Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC) and are based on the more stringent of the intrusive or amenity levels derived for each NAG.
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Table 14.7 Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC)
NAG Project Specific Noise Criteria (LAeq) Day/Evening Night 1 35 37 2 36 39 3 38 391 4 39 37 5 401 392 6 39 38 7 42 39 8 42 35 9 37 39 10 36 37 11 38 40 12 34 35 A 36 36 B 35 35 C 35 35 D 37 371 F 36 39 G 38 40
Note 1 : Denotes where the amenity level LAeq(Period) is applicable, rather than the
intrusive level LAeq(15-minute)
14.4.3 Cumulative Noise Criteria
An objective of the INP is to limit “background creep” from multiple industrial noise sources. To quantify cumulative noise emissions from Integra’s underground operations, ERM has undertaken a cumulative impact assessment incorporating the noise emissions from several surrounding mines/industries within the vicinity of Integra Underground Project Area.
The cumulative noise criteria for day, evening and night periods for each NAG have adopted the LAeq(period) amenity methodology, referencing the recommended acceptable amenity noise levels from Table 2.1 of the INP. Table 14.8 presents the relevant land use and associated recommended acceptable noise levels (from Table 2.1 of the INP).
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Table 14.8 Recommended Acceptable Amenity Noise Levels
Noise Assessment Indicative Daytime Recommended Evening Recommended Night Recommended Group Noise Acceptable Noise Levels, Acceptable Noise Acceptable Noise Levels, (NAG) Amenity Area dBA Levels, dBA dBA 1 Rural 50 45 40 2 Rural 50 45 40 3 Rural 50 45 40 4 Suburban 55 45 40 5 Suburban 55 45 40 6 Rural 50 45 40 7 Rural 50 45 40 8 Suburban 55 45 40 9 Suburban 55 45 40 10 Rural 50 45 40 11 Rural 50 45 40 12 Rural 50 45 40 A Rural 50 45 40 B Rural 50 45 40 C Rural 50 45 40 D Rural 50 45 40 F Rural 50 45 40 G Rural 50 45 40 Note 1 : Weekdays and Saturdays - Daytime 7:00 am – 6:00 pm; Evening 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Night 10:00 pm - 07:00 am. Sundays -Daytime 8am - 6pm; Evening 6:00pm - 8:00am; Night 10:00pm - 8:00am. Note 2 : Recommended Acceptable Noise Levels reproduced from Table 2.1 of DECC’s INP.
Table 2.1 of the INP also provides maximum amenity noise levels for each landuse category which are 5dBA above the acceptable levels as those presented in Table 14.8.
14.5 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
14.5.1 Operational Noise
Two modelling scenarios have been completed to represent operations at the Integra Underground Project.
Scenario 1: Haul Road
The existing situation whereby ROM coal is transported from the Underground to the Company’s CHPP via the RL 100 haul road. This scenario would be applicable until the time of installation of the approved overland conveyor, and also during infrequent occasions when the conveyor is not operational due to breakdowns or routine maintenance. Under PA06_0057, the conveyor is to be operational by the end of 2010. However, it is noted that ICO has lodged an application with DoP seeking a deferral of the requirement for latest conveyor operation to December 2011.
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The assessment under this scenario has incorporated ROM coal transportation using approximately four haul trucks, ie adequate vehicles to transport more than 4.5 Mt ROM coal annually (maximum approved output).
Scenario 2: Conveyor
The transportation of coal from the underground ROM stockpile to the Coal Handling Preparation Plant (CHPP) via conveyor, currently to occur by the end of 2010.
Both modelling scenarios incorporated the following principle noise sources.
Current and proposed infrastructure at the Forest Road Ventilation Shaft Area.
Existing Integra Surface Facilities (within the portal and existing lease area).
Existing CHPP and associated activities.
Proposed additional ventilation facilities above the Hebden pit bottom and adjacent to the proposed Barrett Seam portal.
Modelling Results and Discussion
Modelled noise levels that are above the PSNC fall into two categories.
Category 1: Management Zone
Within the management zone, receptors may experience noise levels up to 5 dBA above the PSNC and impacts could range from negligible to moderate. For residences situated in this zone, several actions should be undertaken including, but not limited to, ongoing noise monitoring, prompt responses by the proponent to community concerns and complaints, and implementation of on-site mitigation measures.
Category 2: Affectation Zone
The second category comprises those receptors situated in areas which experience noise levels greater than 5 dBA above the PSNC. Some residents within this zone may find noise emission levels unacceptable and several actions may be required by the proponent including noise control at dwellings and/or negotiated agreements.
Figures 14.2 to 14.5 present the noise modelling results as noise contours for each of the haul and conveyor scenarios during calm and inversion meteorological conditions. The results include all underground operation related noise sources and have been compared to the day and evening criteria (calm conditions) and night periods (only) for the inversion meteorological conditions.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 170 A3 Drawing size: Reviewed by: MS 500 750m 250 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd SP Refer to Scale Bar 0 Project Area Privately-Owned Receptor Noise Contours Leq (dBA) Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor
74 28 45 Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity. N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_36 Figure 14.2 Client: Project: Date: 07/07/09 Integra Underground Operations Surface Facilities - Haul Road Scenario - Calm Scale: Drawn by: Source: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 27 28 26 25 29 30 24 22 7 31 15 21 19 17 12 32 23 5
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England 105 113 91 114 88 129 154 96 116 97 90 117 85 156 128 121 106 86 92 103 119 CAMBERWELL 125 89 130 122 159 101 160 102 163 127 40 126 168
104 Railway 132 105 131 CAMBERWELL 113 91 154 96 115 90 116 97 88 114 155 96 133 117 94 INSET 164 93 156 98 161 125 121 92 New 165 118 99 103 157 122 Northern 162 167 158 159 166 124 119 134 101 102 100 160 89 126 163 169 123 127 168 104 Main 135 136 A3 Drawing size: Reviewed by: MS 500 750m 250 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd SP Refer to Scale Bar 0 Project Area Privately-Owned Receptor Noise Contours Leq (dBA) Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor
74 28 45 Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity. N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_37 Figure 14.3 Client: Project: Date: 07/07/09 Integra Underground Operations Surface Facilities - Haul Road Scenario - Inversion Scale: Drawn by: Source: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 27 28 26 25 29 30 24 22 7 15 31 12 17 21 19 32
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England 105 113 91 114 88 154 96 116 97 90 117 85 129 156 128 121 106 86 92 103 119 CAMBERWELL 125 89 130 122 159 101 160 102 163 127 126 168
104 Railway 132 105 131 CAMBERWELL 35 113 91 154 96 115 90 116 97 88 114 155 96 133 117 94 INSET 164 93 156 98 161 125 121 92 New 165 118 99 103 157 122 Northern 162 167 158 159 166 124 119 134 101 102 100 160 89 126 163 169 123 127 168 104 Main 135 136 A3 Drawing size: Reviewed by: MS 500 750m 250 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd SP Refer to Scale Bar 0 Project Area Privately-Owned Receptor Noise Contours Leq (dBA) Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor
74 28 45 Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity. N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_38 Figure 14.4 Client: Project: Date: 07/07/09 Integra Underground Operation Surface Facilities Assessment - Conveyor Scenario - Calm Scale: Drawn by: Source: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 27 28 26 25 29 30 24 22 7 15 31 12 17 21 19
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England 105 113 91 114 88 129 154 96 116 97 90 117 85 156 128 121 106 86 92 103 119 CAMBERWELL 125 89 130 122 159 101 160 102 163 127 40 126 168
104 Railway 132 105 131 CAMBERWELL 113 91 154 96 115 90 116 97 88 114 155 96 133 117 94 INSET 164 93 156 98 161 125 121 92 New 165 118 99 103 157 122 Northern 162 167 158 159 166 124 119 134 101 102 100 160 89 126 163 169 123 127 168 104 Main 135 136 Legend INSET Project Area 85 86 Privately-Owned Receptor 89 28
88 CAMBERWELL 74 Mine-Owned, Derelict or Unoccupied Receptor 101 92 90 93 100 167 45 Noise Contours Leq (dBA) 99 94 168 91 105 166 96 169 165 96 102 98 97 104 164 163 103161 162 118 119 117 Bettys Creek 160 116 123 122 115 60 Forest Road 159 121 114 106 74 58 57 41 59 126 124 125 155 55 158 113 61 56 42 157 156 40
127 54 39 154 53 38 Main Creek 65 52 51 Notes: 37 Boundaries offset for clarity. 66 36 67 62 50 43 28 68 35 45 40 29 45 69 30 70 63 71 49 30 27 44 35 31 73 72 34 26 48 33 80 64 76 47 79 83 Road 46 32 25 Main ok Forest Road 81 o lbr Fa e 45 82 dl id Stony Creek M 24 Northern Railway Road Glennies Creek Road Nobles Lane77 84 78 23 85 22 89 86 CAMBERWELL 45 20 21 New 92 88 90 134 101 168 91 105 19 87 Figure 14.5 102 96 Creek 104 97 Integra Underground Operations 163 103 119 153 Surface Facilities - Conveyor Scenario 160 117 - Inversion 135 122 116 18 106 159 121 114 126 Glennies 125 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 156 113 Road 17 127 154 Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment - Noise 112 16 128 107 Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_39 108 40 45 Date: 07/07/09 Drawing size: A3 130 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS 129 110 15 England 111 Bridgman 14 131 13 Source: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 109 12 Scale: Refer to Scale Bar 40 11 0 250 500 750m 10 9 N 132 Highway Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 8 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 133 7 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
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Table 14.9 and Table 14.10 identify those residences which lie within the management and affectation zones under one or both of the operational scenarios as a consequence of the Integra Underground Project.
Table 14.9 Operational Noise Results (Maximum Approved Output) - Management Zone
Scenario Mine Owned Receptors Privately-owned Receptors Calm Haul Road 79, 81, 83 9, 10, 11,71 - 73, 76, 80, 153 Scenario Inversion Haul Road 8,9, 10, 11, 13, 47, 50, 62 - 64, 71 – 73, 45, 46, 69, 70, 79, 81, 82, 83 Scenario 76, 80, 87 Calm Conveyor 77, 78, 83 9, 11, 73, 76, 80, 153 Scenario Inversion Conveyor 45, 46, 79, 81, 82, 83 9, 10, 11, 13, 62 - 64, 73, 76, 80 Scenario
Table 14.10 Operational Noise Result (Maximum Approved Output) - Affectation Zone
Scenario Mine Owned Receptors Privately-owned Receptors Calm Haul Road 74, 75, 77, 78, 84, 170 None Scenario Inversion Haul Road 74, 75, 77, 78, 84, 170 153 Scenario Calm Conveyor 74, 75, 84, 170 None Scenario Inversion Conveyor 74, 75 ,77, 78, 84, 170 153 Scenario Note : Of the mine owned receptors, only receptor 77 is habitable, while receptor 78 is a commercial premises (Envirogen).
A review of modelling outputs identified that coal transport and the CHPP (dozers, load-out and trains) dominated noise emissions from the Project while emissions from the gas boreholes and proposed ventilation facilities would remain acoustically insignificant.
Table 14.9 and Table 14.10 show that, in general, noise impacts associated with the proposed Underground operations would remain within 5 dBA of the PSNC at all private receptors, with the exception of 153 (Dulwich). The commencement of the conveyor system would see noise emissions reduce and subsequently a reduction in privately owned receptors that are within the noise management zone. For calm conditions this equates to a reduction from eight to five private receptors while during inversion conditions this reduction is from 16 receptors to ten receptors.
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14.5.2 Cumulative Noise
Assessment Inclusive of Integra Open Cut
The cumulative assessment has quantified existing industrial noise sources to determine cumulative noise contributions as a consequence of the Underground Project.
The maximum noise emissions from surrounding industries (industrial contribution) including from the proposed Integra Open Cut Project, the Rix’s Creek, Mt Owen, Ashton, Ravensworth East and Glendell Mines and Glennies Creek Power Station have all been included in this assessment. For the Integra Open Cut Project operations, the ‘Full-Pit Extent‘ scenario has been adopted. In this scenario, mining would occur until 2018. As a consequence, beyond 2018, it is expected that cumulative noise levels would decrease. It is also noted that other currently approved mines included in the cumulative assessment will have ceased operations before 2018 or will cease operations over the then remaining life of the Integra Underground Project.
The cumulative assessment should be considered conservative as the modelling has assumed the concurrent generation of the highest industrial noise emissions from the Integra Open Cut Project and the maximum reported potential noise emissions from surrounding industries.
Modelled noise levels from the Integra Underground do not significantly increase (<5dBA) the overall cumulative industrial noise for the majority of the surrounding community and receptors. The noise contribution from the Integra Underground operations to the existing ambient industrial noise for the worst case (haul road) scenario results are presented in Table 14.11 for evening calm conditions, while Table 14.12 presents the noise emissions for the night period during inversion conditions, noting that noise level increases of less than 1 dBA have not been considered as they are considered insignificant.
In addition to the conservative approach to noise emissions from the various surrounding industrial sources described above, additional conservatism has been applied by assuming that the highest noise emission from the Integra Underground operations are applied to each residence in each NAG.
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Table 14.11 Cumulative Noise Impacts, Evening (Calm)
Noise Assessment Maximum Noise Existing Evening Total Max Overall Evening Group Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations 2 56 43 56 13 45 Note: NAG 2 are all mine owned receptors
Table 14.12 Cumulative Noise Impacts, Night (Inversion)
Noise Assessment Maximum Noise Existing Night Total Max Overall Night Group Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations 1 47 47 50 3 40 2 57 44 57 13 40 10 42 41 45 4 40 11 39 40 43 3 40 B 38 41 43 2 40 C 38 41 43 2 40 F 41 43 45 2 40 G 43 43 46 3 40 Note: NAG 2 are all mine owned receptors
In order to quantify impacts on individual receptors within each Noise Assessment Group, a detailed analysis has been provided in Table 14.13.
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Table 14.13 Cumulative Noise Impacts, per group - Night (Inversion)
Receptor Number Maximum Noise Existing Night Total Max Overall Night Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations NAG 1 77 47 47 50 3 40 78 47 47 50 3 40 NAG 10 8 38 41 43 2 40 9 41 41 44 3 40 10 42 41 45 4 40 11 40 41 44 3 40 13 40 41 44 3 40 NAG 11 14 38 40 42 2 40 16 39 40 43 3 40 17 37 40 42 2 40 18 37 40 42 2 40 NAG B 46 38 41 43 2 40 NAG C 64 38 41 43 2 40 NAG F 71 41 43 45 2 40 72 41 43 45 2 40 73 42 43 46 3 40 76 43 43 46 3 40 69 40 43 45 2 40 70 40 43 45 2 40 74 53 43 53 10 40 75 50 43 51 8 40 NAG G 82 43 43 46 3 40 Note: Bold denotes mined owned receptors
Cumulative noise levels for night as a result of the proposed Integra Underground operations may slightly increase the overall industrial noise emissions, but generally by between 2 dBA to 3 dBA and only at the receptors presented in Table 14.13 . It should be noted that changes in noise levels of 3 dBA are generally just perceptible by the majority of individuals. Consequently, potential impacts on the community are expected to be generally unnoticeable considering the existing acoustic environment.
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Assessment Excluding the Integra Open Cut
The maximum noise emissions from surrounding industries (industrial contribution) excluding the Open Cut have also been completed (Table 14.14 and Table 14.15) in order to reflect Underground operations in the absence of the Integra Open Cut Project. This scenario provides cumulative outputs considering Integra Underground as a stand alone project and would be a useful reference for potential future industries when assessing cumulative noise, in particular at the cessation of Open Cut. It should be noted that noise level increases of less than 1 dBA have not been considered as they are considered insignificant.
It should be noted that the overall cumulative noise would decrease as some of the acoustically dominant industries progressively cease operations. Although the contribution from Integra Underground appears to increase, this is not the case as emissions from the Underground remain unchanged, and any overall change is due to the decrease in existing industrial noise.
Table 14.14 Cumulative Noise Impacts, Evening (Calm), Excluding Integra Open Cut
Maximum Max Overall Noise Existing Evening Noise Emission, Total Increase, dBA Evening Assessment Industrial dBA Cumulative from Cumulative Group Contribution, Integra Level, dBA Underground Noise Criteria dBA Underground Operations 1 41 44 46 2 45 2 56 42 56 14 45 3 38 41 43 2 45 7 47 41 48 7 45 10 37 40 42 2 45 Note: NAG 2 are all mine owned receptors
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Table 14.15 Cumulative Noise Impacts, Night (Inversion), Excluding Integra Open Cut
Maximum Max Overall Noise Existing Night Noise Emission, Total Increase, dBA Night Assessment Industrial dBA Cumulative from Cumulative Group Contribution, Integra Level, dBA Underground Noise Criteria dBA Underground Operations 1 47 44 49 5 40 2 57 41 57 16 40 3 41 40 43 4 40 7 49 39 49 10 40 9 35 37 39 2 40 10 42 36 43 7 40 11 39 37 41 4 40 B 38 39 42 3 40 C 38 40 42 2 40 D 36 39 41 2 40 F 41 41 44 3 40 G 43 41 45 4 40
Table 14.16 and Table 14.17 present detailed analyses of potential impacts on receptors within each Noise Assessment Group excluding Integra Open Cut contributions.
Table 14.16 Cumulative Noise Impacts, per group - Evening (Calm)
Receptor Number Maximum Noise Existing Evening Total Max Overall Evening Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations NAG 1 77 41 44 46 2 45 78 41 44 46 2 45 NAG 2 84 56 42 56 14 45 170 50 42 51 9 45 NAG 3 87 38 41 43 2 45 NAG 7 153 47 41 48 7 45 NAG 10 9 37 40 42 2 45 10 37 40 42 2 45 11 37 40 42 2 45 Note: Bold denotes mined owned receptors
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A review of cumulative noise levels for evening presented in Table 14.11 and Table 14.16, identifies that in the absence of the Integra Open Cut Project, there is a reduction in the overall industrial contribution. As a result the unchanged contribution from the Integra Underground represents a 2 dBA change to the residual industrial noise at four privately owned receptors (excluding Dulwich receptors). This industrial noise change is unlikely to be perceptible and would remain below the acceptable amenity noise criteria.
Table 14.17 Cumulative Noise Impacts, per group – Night (Inversion)
Receptor Number Maximum Noise Existing Night Total Max Overall Night Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations NAG 1 80 41 44 46 2 40 77 47 44 49 5 40 78 47 44 49 5 40 79 42 44 46 2 40 81 42 44 46 2 40 83 42 44 46 2 40 NAG 2 84 57 41 57 16 40 85 39 41 43 2 40 86 38 41 43 2 40 170 53 41 53 12 40 NAG 3 87 41 40 44 4 40 106 39 40 43 3 40 NAG 7 108 39 39 42 3 40 109 39 39 42 3 40 110 38 39 42 3 40 153 49 39 49 10 40 107 38 39 42 3 40 NAG 9 2 35 37 39 2 40 3 34 37 39 2 40 4 35 37 39 2 40 152 34 37 39 2 40 1 34 37 39 2 40 NAG 10 5 35 36 39 3 40 6 36 36 39 3 40 8 38 36 40 4 40 9 41 36 42 6 40 10 42 36 43 7 40 11 40 36 41 5 40 13 40 36 41 5 40
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Receptor Number Maximum Noise Existing Night Total Max Overall Night Emission, dBA Industrial Cumulative Increase, dBA Cumulative Integra Contribution, Level, dBA from Noise Criteria Underground dBA Underground Operations NAG 11 7 34 37 39 2 40 12 34 37 39 2 40 14 38 37 41 4 40 15 36 37 40 3 40 16 39 37 41 4 40 17 37 37 40 3 40 18 37 37 40 3 40 NAG B 45 37 39 41 2 40 46 38 39 42 3 40 NAG C 63 37 40 42 2 40 64 38 40 42 2 40 NAG D 49 36 39 41 2 40 NAG F 67 38 41 43 2 40 68 39 41 43 2 40 71 41 41 44 3 40 72 41 41 44 3 40 73 42 41 45 4 40 76 43 41 45 4 40 69 40 41 44 3 40 70 40 41 44 3 40 74 53 41 53 12 40 75 50 41 51 10 40 NAG G 82 43 41 45 4
A review of cumulative noise levels presented in Table 14.13 and Table 14.17, identifies that in the absence of the Integra Open Cut Project, there is a reduction in the overall industrial contribution. As a result the contribution from the Integra Underground, represents < 5 dBA change to the residual industrial noise at 30 private receptors and >5 dBA change residual industrial noise at two receptors (excluding mine owned and Dulwich receptors). It is noted that for up to 23 of these receptors the change in noise levels would be <3 dBA and therefore unlikely to be perceptable).
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14.6 MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING MEASURES
14.6.1 Noise Management Zone
Depending on the degree of exceedance of the project specific criteria (1dB(A) to 5dB(A)), noise impacts could range from negligible to moderate. Here, it is recommended that management procedures be implemented including:
noise monitoring on-site and within the community; prompt response to any community issues of concern; refinement of on-site noise mitigation measures and operating procedures where practicable; discussions with relevant landowners to assess concerns; consideration of acoustical mitigation at residences where substantiated by monitoring results; and consideration of negotiated agreements with landowners.
14.6.2 Noise Affectation Zone
Within this zone, noise levels may be considered unacceptable by some landowners. Here, it is recommended that the following measures be considered.
discussions with relevant landowners to assess concerns and define responses. implementation of acoustical mitigation at residences. negotiated agreements with landowners where required.
14.6.3 General Site Noise Management
ICO have a number of existing procedures in place to manage noise emissions from, or associated with, their underground operations as summarised in Table 14.11.
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Table 14.18 Control Procedures
Source Control Procedures Coal Haulage use of conveyors instead of haul roads where approved; and construction of acoustic bunds adjacent to haul roads where appropriate and practicable. On-site Operations utilisation of routine monitoring results to refine on-site noise mitigation measures and operating procedures. review potential benefits of real-time remote noise monitoring stations; undertake noise audits at boundary positions to static sources to verify potential change in overall sound emissions. Residential Receptors encourage all residents to contact site management with issues of concern via ICO community hotline (1800 505 361); initiate regular discussions with potentially affected residents to proactively identify noise related issues of concern; promptly respond to any issues of concern; consider acoustic mitigation at residences where exceedances of the project specific criteria are quantified via the monitoring program; consider negotiated agreements with landowners where exceedances of the project specific criteria are substantiated by monitoring; and inform residents that the existing community information line for Integra Underground would apply for the new proposal.
14.6.4 Monitoring and Reporting
Noise monitoring and reporting will continue to be undertaken in accordance with the Integra Coal Underground EMS procedure 002-3, Noise Management Program. This includes:
quarterly monitoring at noise monitoring locations NM1 - NM6 (refer to Figure 14.6). Monitoring involves undertaking three attended measurements at each location, equating to approximately one night per month, with monitoring only conducted during night time periods due to the presence of atmospheric conditions which frequently enhance noise propagation during that time period. On each monitoring occasion, measurements are undertaken in one-third octave bands (from 16Hz to 12KHz inclusive) for 15 minutes;
quarterly reporting of monitoring results, clearly stating the objective of that monitoring, the relevant criteria, and if results are in compliance or otherwise;
existing and or additional real time noise monitoring station(s) would be utilised to manage, assess and control potential emissions from the Integra Open Cut and Underground Operations, so as to establish appropriate
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 180 Bettys Creek
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triggers and protocols to aid a prompt response and so avoid exceedances of the noise criteria;
any exceedance being reported to the Department of Planning (and any other relevant agency); and
ICO continuing to submit an Annual Environmental Management Report each year, which includes the results of the noise monitoring conducted during the report year.
14.7 CONCLUSION
Modelling of operational noise levels associated with the surface facilities for the Integra Underground Project indicates that emissions will remain below the relevant PSNC for calm and inversion conditions for the majority of assessed receptors. Seventeen privately-owned receptors will lie within the management zone for one or more of the scenarios modelled. Only receptor 153 (‘Dulwich’) lies within the affectation zone, and then only during the occurrence of inversions.
The cumulative noise assessment indicates that, as a worst case, emissions from the Integra Underground operations may marginally (between 1 dBA and 4 dBA) increase the overall existing (cumulative) industrial noise for some privately-owned receptors surrounding the development. It should be noted that changes in noise levels of up to 3 dBA are generally just perceptible by the majority of individuals.
ICO has in place a noise monitoring program that can verify the accuracy of the modelling results presented in this report. Monitoring is and will continue to be used to inform and develop operational controls in order to minimise the acoustical impacts of its mining activities on the surrounding community.
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15 ECOLOGY
15.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter describes the flora and fauna in the Project Area, provides an overview of ICO’s approach to the management of flora and fauna, discusses the results of an impact assessment undertaken and outlines management measures that will be implemented. This chapter summarises the Integra Coal Underground – Hebden and Barrett Seams Flora and Fauna Assessment (ERM 2009d) presented as Annex K.
The assessment has been prepared based on the Guidelines for Threatened Species Assessment under Part 3A prepared by the DECC and DPI.
The Integra Underground Project Area also includes the Camberwell (now known as Integra Open Cut) Development Application Area and access road to the south. As there are no proposed changes to activities currently consented in the latter two areas, there is no potential for any additional impacts on flora or fauna within them. The current assessment has therefore focussed on areas where there is the potential for additional impact to flora and fauna.
15.2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
15.2.1 Literature Review
Numerous sources of published information on the flora and fauna for the Project Area and its surroundings were reviewed as a part of the assessment. This included 11 reports that provided information on the outcomes of flora and fauna assessment investigations within the Project Area and / or immediately adjoining landholdings (see Section 2.1 or Annex K for full details).
15.2.2 Database Searches
A search of the DECC Wildlife Atlas database was conducted for all recent records of threatened flora and fauna within a 10 km and 5 km radius of the Project Area and a search of the on-line database maintained by the Commonwealth Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and Arts (DEWHA) was also conducted. It should be noted, however, that the DEWHA database search is a prediction of occurrence based on habitat requirements and known distribution rather than actual records.
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15.2.3 Flora Survey Methodology
Broad vegetation communities within and adjacent to the Hebden Seam subsidence impact zone were initially identified and mapped using aerial photography, and subsequently verified using random meander transects in February 2005, December 2005 and January 2006 in order to sample the vegetation within the areas of open forest, riparian corridors, pasture and small dams. These field investigations were undertaken as part of previous ecological assessments of the Middle Liddell seam subsidence impact zone for the Longwall Panels 7 to 9 Subsidence Management Plan (ERM 2005) and the Longwall Panels 10 to 17 Subsidence Management Plan (ERM 2006, ERM 2007). Transect based survey methodology was employed for these investigations, recording height and percentage cover of dominant species within each structural layer and all vascular plant species within 10 metres of each transect.
Additional flora surveys and broad vegetation mapping were undertaken for the current project application in April 2007 and July 2008 to sample vegetation within the Barrett Seam subsidence impact zone. These flora surveys included plot based investigations using 20 metre by 20 metre quadrats and random meander transects. During fieldwork, targeted habitat searches were undertaken for any threatened flora species identified as likely to occur in the literature and from database searches.
15.2.4 Fauna Survey Methodology
An assessment of the diversity and general habitat value of the Project Area was undertaken by appraising the extent of likely habitat; searching for secondary indications of threatened species and incidental observations. Field surveys were undertaken in February 2005 and April 2005 for the Longwall Panels 7 to 9 Subsidence Management Plan (ERM 2005); December 2005 and January 2006 for the Longwall Panels 10 to 17 Subsidence Management Plan (ERM 2006, ERM 2007), and in April 2007 and July 2008 for the current project application.
These surveys considered, amongst other things, aspects of habitat coverage, continuity and connectivity, presence of freshwater habitats and extent of previous disturbance. The presence of flowering eucalypts and other plants was recorded as these may provide foraging resources for threatened species such as Squirrel Gliders and Honeyeaters. Habitat use by fauna was documented through analysis of tracks, scats, diggings, feathers and other traces.
Terrestrial and arboreal mammals were sampled using a variety of survey techniques with consideration given to the dominance of the grassland habitat and the area’s disturbance history. Mammals were recorded opportunistically and indirectly during all of the survey periods
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Sixty hair tubes were placed within the areas of the open forest and riparian habitats for ten consecutive nights during mid April 2007. The terrestrial hair tubes were placed in potential runways, while the arboreal hair tubes targeted hollow bearing and/or flowering trees. Hair tubes were baited to target certain species, with hairs from the tubes sent to Barbara Triggs of Dead Finish for identification.
Nocturnal surveys were conducted on the 11th and 12th April 2007 targeting nocturnal birds, bats and other mammals. Owl call playback techniques and spotlighting were used, with surveys commencing within one hour after dusk. On completion of the owl playback and listening sessions, approximately two hours of spotlighting was undertaken to target nocturnal birds and mammals. An Anabat echolocation call detector was used to record bat calls over two nights in April 2007.
Birds were identified opportunistically from calls and direct observations throughout the day. Birds were sampled over a number of seasons (summer, autumn and early winter) from 2005 to 2008 (ERM 2005, 2006, 2007). Special effort was made to target threatened birds known from the area including Grey-crowned Babblers and their nests, Speckled Warbler, Brown Treecreeper, Hooded Robin and Black-chinned Honeyeater. Targeted surveys for earlier project applications included diurnal spot surveys (ERM 2005).
In 2005, targeted surveys for Litoria aurea (Green and Golden Bell Frog) were conducted at permanent farm dams with emergent vegetation to the east of Forest Road. Searches were conducted by two ecologists in early evening (from 7pm to 8.30pm) amongst emergent vegetation and frogs were identified by call and/or sightings.
15.3 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
The Project Area has been considerably disturbed by land clearing and grazing and most of the Project Area is cleared of native forest. Seven vegetation communities were identified within the Project Area as indicated on Figure 15.1, and summarised below. Weed/introduced species have been denoted with an asterisk (*).
15.3.1 Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest
Isolated remnants of this community were identified across the Project Area and were characterised by a dominance of Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus moluccana (Grey Box), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Eucalyptus fibrosa (Broad-leaved Ironbark). These remnants showed evidence of previous disturbance and appeared to be regenerating.
The relatively sparse shrub layer included species such as Bursaria spinosa (Blackthorn), Pultenaea retusa, Cassinia aculeata, Daviesia genistifolia (Broom
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 184 Legend
Project Area
Proposed Hebden Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads)
Proposed Barrett Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads)
Subsidence Impact Zone
H15 Coal Lease (CL) 382 H14 H12 Camberwell Development Application H13 Area (DA 86/2889) Bettys Creek HEBDEN SEAM MINING AREA Access Road
Central Hunter Bulloak Forest
H11 Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest
H10 H9 Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest
H8 Regenerating Native Woodland/Shrubland H7 Main Creek Forest Road Revegetated Areas
H6 Hunter Valley River Oak Forest
H5 Grassland Proposed Biodiversity Offset H4 Area Boundary H3 H2 H1 BARRETT SEAM MINING AREA
k Road Notes: oo lbr B7 Statutory barriers will apply as required. Main Fa le Forest Road d B5 Boundaries offset for clarity. id Glennies Creek Road M Stony Creek B4 B2 B6 Northern B3 Railway Road Nobles Lane
B1
ML1437 New ML1518
CAMBERWELL ML1551 Figure 15.1 Creek Vegetation Communities
Road Glennies Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment England Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_31 Date: 10/06/09 Drawing size: A3 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS Source: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd
Bridgman Scale: Refer to Scale Bar
0 250 500 750m
N Highway Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
To New England Highway
Bitter-pea) and Acacia amblygona (Fan Wattle). The ground cover varied in density across this community and included *Eragrostis cilianensis, Wahlenbergia gracilis (Native Bluebell), Lomandra longifolia, Cymbopogon refractus (Barbed Wire Grass), Stipa sp., Cheilanthes sieberi (Mulga Fern) and Dichondra repens (Kidney Weed). Common pasture species such as Sporobolus creber (Slender Rats Tail Grass), *Paspalum dilatatum (Paspalum) and Cynodon dactylon (Common Couch) were also noted.
This community is recognised as having high regional significance due to historical clearing and poor reservation.
15.3.2 Central Hunter Bulloak Forest
The Central Hunter Bulloak Forest community was recorded in the central and southern portions of the Project Area and was characterised by dense stands of Allocasuarina luehmannii (Bulloak) to a height of 15 m. Also noted scattered throughout were specimens of Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak).
The shrub layer was generally absent, with a very sparse ground cover as a result of the dense layers of fallen Casuarina cladodes. The most commonly occurring groundcover species were Aristida ramosa (Three-awn Speargrass), Bothriochloa macra (Red Grass), Austrodanthonia bipartita (Wallaby Grass) and Dichelachne micrantha (Shorthair Plumegrass). Also noted within this community was the common weed species, *Opuntia aurantiaca (Tiger Pear).
This community is not recognised as being of regional significance, although it is restricted in its extent (Peake, 2006).
15.3.3 Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest
The Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest community was identified along the margins of Bettys Creek, Main Creek and within the south-eastern corner of the Project Area. Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak), Angophora floribunda (Rough- barked Apple) and Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) dominated the canopy layer.
The shrub and ground cover species were similar to those identified within the adjacent woodland communities and included Cheilanthes sieberi (Mulga Fern), Bursaria spinosa (Blackthorn), Aristida ramosa (Three-awn Speargrass) and *Opuntia aurantiaca (Tiger Pear).
Within the region, this community occurs mostly along alluvial flats and creek banks and is often associated with soils exhibiting elevated salinity. This community is recognised as having high regional significance due to historical clearing and poor reservation.
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15.3.4 Hunter Valley River Oak Forest
The Hunter Valley River Oak Forest community was identified along the margins of Glennies Creek. Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana (River Oak) and *Schinus ariera (Pepper Tree) dominated the canopy layer.
The shrub layer was relatively sparse and characterised by juvenile specimens of the canopy species. The ground cover species included Cheilanthes sieberi (Mulga Fern), Cynodon dactylon (Common Couch) and *Echium plantagineum (Paterson's Curse). Along the edges of the creek, moisture loving species dominated and included *Oxalis corniculata (Creeping Oxalis), Juncus subsecundus, Juncus cognatus, Typha domingensis (Narrow-leaved Cumbungi) and Typha orientalis (Broad-leaved Cumbungi).
Within the region, this community occurs along the Hunter River and its tributaries. Unlike the Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest, it occurs closer to the high energy banks and is not usually associated with soils of higher than usual salinity levels. This community has high regional significance due to historical clearing and poor reservation. Peake (2006) indicates that 98.9% of its original extent within the Hunter Region has been cleared.
15.3.5 Grassland
The grassland community is widespread throughout the Project Area and is the result of previous clearing and ongoing grazing by stock. Common pasture species such as *Paspalum dilatatum (Paspalum) and Cynodon dactylon (Common Couch) dominate along with native grasses Sporobolus creber (Slender Rats Tail Grass), Stipa sp. (Speargrass) and Dichelachne micrantha (Shorthair Plumegrass), as well as Wahlenbergia gracilis (Native Bluebell) and *Senecio madagascariensis (Fireweed).
Regeneration is limited to isolated trees and juvenile stands of Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus moluccana (Grey Box), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), Eucalyptus fibrosa (Broad-leaved Ironbark) and Allocasuarina luehmannii (Bulloak). This community has no recognised regional significance.
15.3.6 Regenerating Native Woodland / Shrubland
Since removal of cattle within the south-eastern portion of the Project Area, there has been a substantial increase in the establishment of native shrubs and native tree regeneration. The regenerating tree species are similar to those identified within the Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest identified within the remainder of the Project Area.
The main native shrubs are Daviesia genistifolia (Broom Bitter Pea) and Daviesia ulicifolia (Gorse Bitter Pea). Also commonly noted were Acacia amblygona (Fan Wattle), Acacia falcata, Hakea decurrens, Acacia falcata, Myoporum montanum
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(Western Boobialla) and Maireana microphylla (Eastern Cottonbush). This community has no recognised regional significance.
15.3.7 Revegetation
The revegetation within the northern portion of the Project Area included plantings of the commonly occurring myrtaceous species identified within the locality, including Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Eucalyptus fibrosa (Broad-leaved Ironbark). A range of Acacia species were also noted and included species such as Acacia concurrens, A. parvipinnula and A. filiformis as well as Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak), Pultenaea retusa and Dodonaea viscosa. This community has no recognised regional significance.
15.4 RARE AND THREATENED FLORA SPECIES
The DECC database records one threatened flora species Eucalyptus glauca (Slaty Red Gum) and two endangered populations Acacia pendula (Weeping Myall) and Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) within 10 km of the Project Area. Habitat for an additional two threatened flora species has been recorded on the DEWHA database (EPBC Act) within 10 km, Diuris tricolor (Pine Donkey Orchid) and Thesium australe (Austral Toadflax). Ozothamnus tessellatus is also reported to occur in the northern remnant of Ravensworth State Forest to the north of the Project Area. Potential habitat is available for each of these species within the various habitat types present.
No threatened flora species were recorded in the Project Area during the recent survey period. Bothriochloa biloba, recorded previously within the existing ventilation shaft site and electricity easement near Forest Road, is no longer listed as a vulnerable species under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act 1995. This species is, however, listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999 and has, therefore, been assessed as a threatened species.
Flora investigations for the adjoining Glendell Mine identified Goodenia macbarronii in the woodland remnant near the junction of the Mt Owen Rail Spur and the Main Northern Railway (Umwelt 2007) external to the subsidence impact zone of this application. Goodenia macbarronii is identified as a Rare or Threatened Australian Plant (3VC vulnerable species) and, at the time of the Umwelt report, was listed as threatened under the TSC Act. This species is no longer listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.
A summary of threatened flora species and their likelihood of occurrence within the Project Area is presented in Table 15.1.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Table 15.1 Likelihood of Threatened Flora Occurring in the Project Area
Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC R ESOURCES ESOURCES Plants Bothriochloa biloba - V Grows in eucalypt forests and relict grassland on This species has been recorded within the Yes assessment under heavier-textured soils such as brown or black clay Project Area and has the potential to be EPBC Act required. M Lobed Blue-grass ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT soils. The distribution of this species overlaps impacted by the installation of gas with that of the EPBC Act-listed threatened drainage boreholes and the Hebden ecological community, White Box-Yellow Box- ventilation shaft.
A Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and USTRALIA Derived Native Grassland (DEWHA 2008). Cryptostylis hunteriana V A terrestrial orchid which grows in coastal swamp Low to moderate likelihood of occurrence No assessment required.
Leafless Tongue Orchid heath on sandy soil, eucalypt woodland, swamp given the lack of sandy soils and 188 fringes to bare hillsides in tall forest, with associated species. Blandfordia nobilis, Cryptostylis erecta and Cryptostylis subulata. Diuris tricolor V V Prefers sandy soils supporting sclerophyll forest Low to moderate likelihood of occurrence No assessment required Pine Donkey Orchid with Callitris species. Also occurs on red earth given the lack of sandy soils and given the likelihood of soils supporting Bimble Box. associated species. occurrence. Eucalyptus glaucina V V Prefers grassy woodland on deep, moderately Potential habitat is available within the No assessment required. Slaty Red Gum fertile, well watered soils. Recorded in Werakata riparian corridors and minor drainage National Park. lines. No individuals were identified 0061887 despite numerous surveys across the Project Area.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Ozothamnus tesselatus V - Dense low shrub which grows in eucalypt Only one individual recorded in the north No assessment required. woodland. Restricted distribution known from of Ravensworth State Forest. Moderate to R
ESOURCES ESOURCES north of Rylstone. low likelihood of occurrence given low numbers in locality and disturbance in Project Area. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Thesium australe V V Occurs in damp areas of grassland or woody Potential habitat is available within the No assessment required Austral Toadflax grassland often in damp sites. Parasitic on the grassland habitat although no individuals given the lack of roots of Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis). have been identified and no records exist occurrence within the
A within the local area. Project Area. USTRALIA Endangered Population
Acacia pendula E - Prefers heavy soils occasionally growing on Potential habitat is available within the No assessment required. Weeping Myall population margins of small floodplains, but also in more Glennies Creek floodplain although no 189 in the Hunter Catchment undulating locations. Hunter population typically individuals have been identified during occurs in roadsides and cemeteries where there is the various surveys. One individual was limited or no grazing. Known from six locations:: recorded along Swamp Creek3 Jerrys Plains, Edderton, Wybong, Appletree Creek, Warkworth and Appletree Flat. Eucalyptus camaldulensis E - Found in riparian habitat of Hunter River Potential habitat is available within the No assessment required. River Red Gum population catchment associated with Eucalyptus tereticornis, Glennies Creek and to a lesser extent, in the Hunter Catchment Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp cunninghamiana, Main Creek and Bettys Creek riparian Angophora floribunda and E. melliodora. corridors given these later creeks are 0061887 characterised by more saline soils supporting Swamp Oaks. No Eucalyptus
EA/FINAL/9 camaldulensis have been identified during the various surveys.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Endangered Ecological Community Central Hunter Grey Box- E - Woodland community that occurs on Permian While the Central Hunter Ironbark- No assessment required. R ESOURCES ESOURCES Ironbark Woodland in the (Prel sediments in the Hunter Valley. Typically low to Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest community NSW North Coast and Det) mid-high woodland dominated by Eucalyptus identified within the Project Area contains Sydney Basin Bioregions. crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), Brachychiton some of the characteristic species of the M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT populneus subsp. populneus (Kurrajong) and E. EEC, this community in the Project Area is moluccana (Grey Box). Extends from Singleton more strongly aligned to the Central Military Area west to Denman and Wybong and Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box
A north to Castle Rock and Muswellbrook, mainly Forest given preliminary determination as USTRALIA south of New England Highway (Peake 2006). an EEC. Central Hunter Ironbark- E - Woodland community that occurs on Permian Identified in the Project Area mapped as Yes assessment required.
Spotted Gum-Grey Box (Prel sediments in the Hunter Valley. Typically an Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum- 190 Forest in the NSW North Det) open forest to woodland dominated by Eucalyptus Grey Box Forest community. Coast and Sydney Basin crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), Corymbia Bioregions. maculata (Spotted Gum) and E. moluccana (Grey Box). Occurs throughout central and eastern Upper Hunter Valley largely north of the New England Highway (Peake 2006). Hunter Floodplain Red E - Occurs on alluvial soils of the floodplains of the Within the Project Area Glennies Creek No assessment required. Gum Woodland in the NSW (Prel Hunter River and tributaries in particular riparian vegetation is more characteristic North Coast and Sydney Det) Goulburn River, Dart Brook, Kingdon Ponds, of the Hunter Valley River Oak Forest 0061887 Basin Bioregions Wollombi Brook, Wybong Creek and Muscle dominated by Casuarina cunninghamiana Creek (Peaker 2006). Generally dominated by subsp. cunninghamiana (River Oak) which
EA/FINAL/9 Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) is known to occur along streams in the occasionally with E.tereticornis (Forest Red Gum), central Hunter Valley around the E. melliodora (Yellow Box) and Angophora Ravensworth area (Peake 2006).
J ULY floribunda (Rough-barked Apple). 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Hunter Lowland Redgum E - The Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest extends While the Central Hunter Ironbark- No assessment required. Forest in the Sydney Basin from Muswellbrook to the Lower Hunter where it Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest community R
ESOURCES ESOURCES and NSW North Coast occurs on gentle slopes rising from depressions. It identified within the Project Area contains Bioregions is generally an open forest community with the some of the characteristic species of the most common canopy trees being Eucalyptus EEC, this community in the Project Area is M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Eucalyptus more strongly aligned to another punctata (Grey Gum), although other frequently community given preliminary occurring canopy species are Angophora costata determination as an EEC.
A (Smooth-barked Apple), Corymbia maculata USTRALIA (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Eucalyptus moluccana (Grey Box).
Hunter Valley Weeping E - Woodland community associated with heavy clay No vegetation community resembling the No assessment required.
191 Myall Woodland of the soils on depositional landforms in the south-west described assemblage identified within Sydney Basin Bioregion of the Hunter Valley. Most common species is the Project Area. Acacia pendula (Weeping Myall), which may occur with Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), A. salacina (Cooba) and/or trees within the A. homalophylla – A. melvillei complex. Weeping Myall-Coobah- - E Woodland of Acacia pendula (Weeping Myall), No vegetation community resembling the No assessment required. Scrub Wilga Shrubland of with A. salacina (Cooba) and Geijera salicifolia described assemblage identified within the Hunter Valley (Scrub Wilga). Occurs in a small stand on heavy, the Project Area.
0061887 brown clay soils at Jerrys Plains. White Box-Yellow Box E CE Prefers relatively fertile soils on the western No indicator species occur within the No assessment required.
EA/FINAL/9 Blakely’s Red Gum grassy slopes and tablelands of NSW where rainfall is Project Area. Low likelihood of woodland and derived between 400 and 800 millimetres at an altitude of occurrence. native grassland approximately 170 to 1200 metres.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Hunter Lowland Redgum E - The Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest extends While the Central Hunter Ironbark- No assessment required. Forest in the Sydney Basin from Muswellbrook to the Lower Hunter where it Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest community R
ESOURCES ESOURCES and NSW North Coast appears on gentle slopes rising from depressions. identified within the Project Area contains Bioregions It is generally an open forest community with the some of the characteristic species of the most common canopy trees being Eucalyptus EEC, this community in the Project Area is M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT tereticornis and Eucalyptus punctata, although other more strongly aligned to another frequently occurring canopy species are Angophora community given preliminary costata, Corymbia maculata, Eucalyptus crebra and determination as an EEC.
A Eucalyptus moluccana (NPWS 2000a). USTRALIA White Box-Yellow Box E CE Prefers relatively fertile soils on the western No indicator species occur within the No assessment required. Blakely’s Red Gum grassy slopes and tablelands of NSW where rainfall is Project Area. Low likelihood of woodland and derived between 400 and 800 millimetres at an altitude of occurrence.
192 native grassland approximately 170 to 1200 metres (NPWS, 2004). References: 1 = Forest Fauna Surveys et al (2003); 2 = Countrywide Ecology Surveys (2007); 3 = Umwelt (2007); 4 = Forest Fauna Surveys et al (2006). Status in NSW as per Schedules 1 and 2 of TSC Act: E = Endangered; V = Vulnerable. Status as per EPBC Act: CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered; V = Vulnerable.
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15.5 ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES
15.5.1 Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest
The Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest is listed as an endangered ecological community (EEC) in Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act and has been identified previously to the north of the Project Area . This occurrence of the Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest is likely to represent the western limit of the community’s distribution in the Hunter Valley.
The community is described in the NSW Scientific Committee determination as generally an open forest community with the most common canopy trees being Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Eucalyptus punctata, (Grey Gum), although other frequently occurring canopy species are Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple), Corymbia maculate (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Eucalyptus moluccana (Grey Gum). The midstorey is characterised by a sparse shrub stratum of Breynia oblongifolia (Coffee Bush), Leucopogon juniperinus, Daviesia ulicifolia (Gorse Bitter Pea) and Jacksonia scoparia with a ground layer of grasses and herbs including Microlaena stipoides var stipoides, Cymbopogon refractus, Echinopogon caespitosus var caespitosus, Cheilanthes sieberi and Pratia purpurascens.
Based upon a comparison of the occurrence, characteristics and floristics of the vegetation communities described for the Project Area with those of the Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest EEC, it is considered that this EEC is not present in the Project Area.
15.5.2 Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest
The Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest in the NSW North Coast and Sydney Bioregions has been recently given preliminary determination by the NSW Scientific Committee as an EEC under Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act. This community has been identified throughout the Project Area (see Figure 15.1).
The Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest occurs on clayey soils found on Permian sediments throughout the central lowlands of the upper Hunter Valley (DECC 2009). The open forest to woodland community is dominated by Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum) and E. moluccana (Grey Box) with occasional E. fibrosa (Broad-leaved Ironbark) or E. tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) (Peake, 2006; DECC 2009). The mid understorey of small trees is typically sparse or absent comprising Allocasuarina luehmannii (Bulloak) or Acacia parvipinnula (Silver Streamed Wattle) (Peake, 2006; DECC 2009). Shrub strata is also typically sparse with common shrub species including Daviesia ulicifolia (Gorse Bitter Pea), Pultenaea spinosa (Grey Bush Pea), Breynia oblongifolia (Coffee Bush), Hakea sericea (Bushy Needlebush) and Bursaria spinosa (Blackthorn) (Peake, 2006; DECC 2009). Groundcover comprises a sparse to moderately dense
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cover of forbs, a few grasses and a limited number of ferns, sedges or other herbs.
The Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest is known from the Cessnock, Singleton and Muswellbrook local government areas (DECC 2009). The community is fragmented with the majority of the remnants being less than 10 ha in area and 34 remnants being greater than 100 ha (Peake 2006). Further, the community is poorly conserved with only approximately 293 ha conserved in Belford National Park (Peake 2006).
While this community does not have final determination for listing as an EEC at this time, consideration has been given to the impact of this proposal on the EEC within Annex K.
15.6 HABITAT ASSESSMENT
The Project Area contains four broad habitat types, namely open forest, Casuarina woodland, riparian and pasture, all of which are well represented within the locality.
The myrtaceous trees provide a seasonal foraging resource for nectivorous birds and mammals such as the Squirrel Glider and Honeyeaters. The variety of tree species would also provide suitable feeding/foraging resources for foliage dependant animals such as the Common Brushtail Possum and insectivorous birds such as Treecreepers.
The grasses and sedges within the ground cover across the entire Project Area would provide seeds and stems for granivorous and herbivorous species. The grassland provides foraging habitat for birds of prey and macropods.
The open forest of the Project Area has a moderate layer of leaf litter that may provide shelter for reptiles and small ground-dwelling mammals. The moderate cover of fallen logs and rocks provides shelter for small ground- dwelling mammals and reptiles as well as a foraging substrate for the Grey- crowned Babbler. The Project Area contains a large number of mature eucalypt trees with hollows and stags capable of providing shelter and breeding habitat for many bird, arboreal mammal and microchiropteran bat species.
Bettys Creek, Main Creek, Glennies Creek, farm dams and Possum Skin Dam all provide habitat for aquatic birds and amphibians. These habitat resources vary from permanent to ephemeral and provide habitat for a large number of species. Frog species identified in permanent dams included Litoria fallax (Green Reed Frog), Litoria lesueuri and Uperoleia laevigata (Smooth Toadlet).
Potential Koala habitat is defined by the presence of SEPP 44 Schedule 2 Koala feed trees as 15% or greater of the tree composition (see Section 5.3.2). The majority of eucalypt communities across the Project Area are dominated by Spotted Gum, Grey Box and Broad-leaved Ironbark and therefore do not
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qualify as potential Koala Habitat. However, the stand of Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box forest community near Glennies Creek Road qualifies as potential Koala habitat as the Koala feed tree, Forest Red Gum, occurs as a co-dominant in this area.
Core Koala habitat is defined as an area of land with a resident population of Koalas, evidenced by attributes such as breeding females…and recent sightings of and historical records of a Koala population’. No Koalas or indirect evidence of their presence (scats or scratch marks) were found in the Project Area during the current investigations or previous investigations within the Project Area (Countrywide Ecological Service 2007, Umwelt 2007). There are no recent records of Koalas from the immediate environs to the north of the Project Area although a possible scat was found in the upper Bettys Creek catchment in Ravensworth State Forest in 1995 (Fauna Surveys et al 2003, Forest Fauna Surveys et al 2006). The DECC wildlife atlas includes five Koala records within a 10 km radius of the Project Area with recent records in 2004 approximately 10 km to north of the Project Area north of Mount Pleasant and near Mount Olive, and older records in the 1980s from near Falbrook just to the north of the Project Area boundary. There is also a DECC record from 1999 near the New England Highway at Camberwell.
While field investigations indicate that there is no evidence of a resident Koala population, it is likely that Koalas may forage in the woodland habitat near Glennies Creek and possibly move along the wildlife corridor along Glennies Creek. The proposed longwall mining activity is unlikely to impact on Koala habitat as it will not clear or undermine the foraging resource in the stand of Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box forest adjoining Glennies Creek; it will not fragment any potential wildlife corridors along Glennies Creek that may be utilised by the Koala, and is therefore unlikely to isolate any local populations.
15.7 THREATENED FAUNA
During the 2005 to 2008 survey periods, only one threatened fauna species was directly observed within the Project Area being Pomatostomus temporalis (Grey-crowned Babbler). Ecological investigations for other proposals within and adjoining the Project Area have identified another eight threatened species within the Project Area. The locations of the species and reference are shown on Figure 15.2. Information on each of these nine species is presented below.
15.7.1 Grey-Crowned Babbler
Five Grey-crowned Babblers were observed in 2005 foraging within the fallen trees within the areas of open forest over the northern portion of the Hebden Seam subsidence impact zone (ERM, 2005). Further surveys undertaken in 2006, 2007 and 2008 recorded the presence of this species on the western side
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 195 Legend Project Area Proposed Hebden Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads) Proposed Barrett Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads) Subsidence Impact Zone Coal Lease (CL) 382 Camberwell Development Application H15 Area (DA 86/2889) H14 H12 Access Road H13 Grey-crowned Babbler Bettys Creek (ERM, 2007) Grey-crowned Babbler (ERM, 2005) HEBDEN SEAM Grey-crowned Babbler H11 MINING AREA (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2007) Grey-crowned Babbler H10 H9 (Umwelt, 2003) Grey-crowned Babbler nest H8 Main Creek and sightings (Countrywide Ecological, 2007) H7 Main Creek Forest Road Grey-crowned Babbler nest (ERM, 2007) H6 Grey-crowned Babbler nest (Umwelt, 2007) H5 Speckle Warbler (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) H4 Speckle Warbler H3 (Umwelt, 2007) H2 H1 Brown Treecreeper BARRETT SEAM (Umwelt, 2003) MINING AREA Brown Treecreeper k Road oo (Umwelt, 2007) lbr B7 Main Fa le Eastern Freetail-bat Forest Road d B5 id Glennies Creek Road M Stony Creek (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) B4 B2 B6 Eastern Bentwing-bat Northern B3 Railway Road (Umwelt, 2007) Nobles Lane Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat (Umwelt, 2007) Squirrel Glider (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) B1 Brushtail Phascogale ML1437 (Countrywide Ecological, 2007) New Grey-headed Flying- fox ML1518 (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003)
CAMBERWELL ML1551 Creek Figure 15.2 Threatened Species Recorded within Project Area ROAD Road Glennies Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment England BRIDGMAN Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_32 Date: 17/06/09 Drawing size: A3 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: JW Source: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd
Bridgman Scale: Refer to Scale Bar
0 250 500 750m
N Highway Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
To New Notes: England Statutory barriers will apply as required. Highway Boundaries offset for clarity.
of Bettys Creek, along Forest Road and to the north of Glennies Creek Road (Figure 15.2). The flora and fauna assessment for Glennies Creek Open Cut Project identified Grey-crowned Babbler nests and a family group of Grey- crowned Babbler (Countrywide Ecological Service, 2007).
Investigations by Umwelt (2007) for the Glendell proposal identified nests of the Grey-crowned Babbler and two to five Grey-crowned Babblers on a number of occasions in forested and woodland habitat between Bettys Creek and the Mt Owen Rail Spur within the Integra Project Area (see Figure 15.2).
15.7.2 Speckled Warbler
Pyrrholaemus sagittatus (Speckled Warbler) has been recorded within the northern portion of the Hebden seam subsidence impact zone (Fauna Surveys et al 2003) and also along Bettys Creek (Umwelt 2007) (see Figure 15.2). The Speckled Warbler lives in a wide range of eucalypt dominated communities that have a grassy understorey, often on rocky ridges or in gullies. Large, relatively undisturbed remnants are required for this species to persist in an area. Within the Project Area, suitable habitat is available within the forested portions of the Project Area, with a limited amount of nesting habitat available among fallen branches and other litter.
15.7.3 Brown Treecreeper
Climacteris picumnus (Brown Treecreeper) was recorded by Forest Fauna Surveys et al (2003) in the northern portion and also in the southwest (Umwelt 2007) of the Hebden seam subsidence impact zone (see Figure 15.2). The Brown Treecreeper is reported to be abundant within the nearby Ravensworth State Forest although it is uncommon within the regenerating woodland within the Mt Owen Project Area (Forest Fauna Surveys et al 2003). This species inhabits drier forests and woodlands particularly among fallen timber. Within the Project Area, suitable habitat is available within the forested portions with a limited amount of nesting habitat also available.
15.7.4 Eastern Freetail-Bat
Mormopterus norfolkensis (Eastern Freetail-bat) has been previously recorded within the northern portion of the Hebden seam subsidence impact zone from calls and in artificial bat roost boxes (Forest Fauna Surveys et al 2003) and the western portion of the Barrett seam subsidence impact zone (Countrywide Ecological Service, 2007) (see Figure 15.2). This species inhabits a wide range of forested habitats and roosts in tree hollows and under loose bark. Potential hunting and roosting habitat is available across the Project Area.
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15.7.5 Eastern Bentwing-Bat
Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis (Eastern Bentwing-bat) has been previously recorded within the western portion of the Barrett seam subsidence impact zone (Countrywide Ecological Service, 2007) and in the woodland habitat in the southwest of the Project Area (Umwelt 2007) (see Figure 15.2). This species inhabits a wide range of forested habitats and roosts in tree hollows and under loose bark. Potential hunting and roosting habitat is available across the Project Area.
15.7.6 Yellow-Bellied Sheathtail-bat
Umwelt (2007) recorded calls of Saccolaimus flaviventris (Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat) in grassland habitat near a large dam in Central Hunter Bulloak Forest between Bettys Creek and the Mt Owen Rail Spur (see Figure 15.2). This bat had not been recorded in Ravensworth State Forest or Mt Owen Mine operation area in surveys between 1995 and 2005 (Forest Fauna Surveys 2006). The Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat roosts in tree hollows and will hunt above the forest canopy. Potential hunting and roosting habitat is available across the Project Area.
15.7.7 Squirrel Glider
Petaurus norfolcensis (Squirrel Glider) was recorded in the north of the Project Area (see Figure 15.2) in the Species Impact Statement (Forest Fauna Surveys, 2003) for the Mt Owen Operations EIS (Umwelt 2003a). The Squirrel Glider is reported to be widespread, but occurring in low densities, within the areas of mature woodland and open pasture with dense stands of trees/regrowth within the Mt Owen Project Area (Umwelt, 2003b). Within the current Project Area, suitable foraging habitat is available within the forested portions with a limited amount of nesting habitat also available.
15.7.8 Brush-Tailed Phascogale
Phascogale tapoatafa (Brush-tailed Phascolgale) was recorded within eastern portion of the Project Area (see Figure 15.2), south of the Barrett seam subsidence impact zone (Countrywide Ecological Service, 2007). The records are likely to represent a breeding female and its young (Countrywide Ecological Service, 2007). The Brush-tailed Phascogale was not been recorded in the Mt Owen operation area in studies undertaken from 1995 to 2005 (Forest Fauna Surveys 2006). Potential foraging and limited nesting habitat for the breeding female identified occurs across much of the eastern portion of the Project Area.
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15.7.9 Grey-Headed Flying-Fox
Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying-fox) has been recorded within the northern portion of the Project Area (see Figure 15.2) most commonly during winter when the Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum) are flowering (Umwelt, 2003b). An established roost site or ‘camp’ is known to occur within Singleton and, as the Project Area occurs within the known foraging range for this species, it is therefore likely to provide a seasonal foraging resource in the open forest habitat.
15.7.10 Other Threatened Species
Threatened fauna species recorded within 10 km of the Project Area on the DECC database and/or predicted to occur in the DEWHA database are listed in Table 15.2.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Table 15.2 Likelihood of Threatened Fauna Occurring in the Project Area
Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC R ESOURCES ESOURCES Birds Oxyura australis V - During breeding season prefers well vegetated Low likelihood of occurrence based on the No assessment required.
M Blue-billed Duck deep freshwater marshes. Prefers more open lack of preferred habitat within the Project ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT waters in non-breeding season. Area. Stictonetta naevosa V - Breeding occurs in permanent fresh swamps Low likelihood of occurrence based on the No assessment required. heavily vegetated with cumbungi, lignum, lack of preferred habitat within the Project A Freckled Duck
USTRALIA canegrass or ti-tree. Also inhabits large open Area. lakes, sewage ponds, dams, creeks and
floodwaters. Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus E Prefers intertidal flats, swamps and river pools. Low likelihood of occurrence based on the No assessment required. 199 Black-necked Stork lack of preferred habitat within the Project Area. Rostratula australis - V Prefers shallow inland freshwater or bracken Low likelihood of occurrence given the No assessment required. Australian Painted Snipe wetlands. Nests in tall reeds beside wetlands. lack of wetland habitat within the Project Area. Erythrotriorchis radiatus E V Prefers woodlands and forests with a mosaic of Low to moderate likelihood based on lack No assessment required. Red Goshawk vegetation types that contain permanent water. of suitably sized water bodies. Not Nests may be up to 1 km away from permanent known from Ravensworth State Forest or 1, 4 0061887 freshwater. Mt Owen Mine Project Area Turnix maculosa V - Prefers grassland, woodland and croplands Low to moderate likelihood. Potential No assessment required.
EA/FINAL/9 Red-backed Button-quail receiving annual rainfall of 400mm. Nests in habitat is available within the Project Area areas of dense grass beside water. although this species was last recorded in 1981 over 5km from the Project Area.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Lathamus discolor E E Breeds in Tasmania during spring and summer, Moderate likelihood of occurrence as a No assessment required. Swift Parrot migrating in the autumn and winter months to seasonal visitor only with seasonal R
ESOURCES ESOURCES south-eastern Australia. In NSW, mostly occurs flowering resource available in woodland
on the coast and south-west slopes in areas where remnants. Low number of records in the eucalypts are flowering profusely or where there locality. Recorded within the Mt Owen M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT are abundant lerp (from sap-sucking bugs) Complex for the first time in 2005 with infestations. Favoured feed trees include winter approximately 20 birds observed foraging flowering species such as Swamp Mahogany in the north of Ravensworth State Forest 4.
A (Eucalyptus robusta), Spotted Gum (Corymbia USTRALIA maculata), Red Bloodwood (C. gummifera), Mugga Ironbark (E. sideroxylon), and White Box (E.
albens). Commonly used lerp infested trees include Grey Box (E. macrocarpa), Grey Box (E. 200 moluccana) and Blackbutt (E. pilularis). Ninox connivens V - Open woodlands and dry open forests, nesting in Recorded on DECC database near Mount No assessment required. Barking Owl the crown of mature trees. Pleasant. Not recorded in Ravensworth State Forest during annual surveys 1,4. Moderate likelihood of occurrence given low number of records in locality. Tyto novaehollandiae V - Dry sclerophyll forest and woodland with a low Moderate likelihood of hunting in the No assessment required. Masked Owl sparse understorey, foraging in open or partly Project Area. This species has been
0061887 cleared land. Roosting and nest sites in large tree recorded to the north of the Project Area hollows in sheltered aspects. within Mt Owen Mine and Ravensworth
EA/FINAL/9 State Forest1,4.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Ninox strenua V - Wet and dry sclerophyll forests, nesting (large tree First recorded in Ravensworth State Forest No assessment required. Powerful Owl hollows) and roosting in dense forest areas or during annual surveys in 2004 and again
R 4 ESOURCES ESOURCES dense gullies. in 2005 . Moderate likelihood of foraging in the woodland habitat and along the riparian habitat. Low likelihood of M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT roosting and/or nesting in the Project Area given absence of dense forested habitat.
A Climacteris picumnus victoriae V - Drier forests and woodlands particularly among This species has been recorded within the Yes assessment required. USTRALIA Brown Treecreeper (eastern fallen timber. revegetated areas in the north-east of the subspecies) Project Area1. It is also reported to be abundant within Ravensworth State Forest
201 and is likely to utilise the resources present across the Project Area. Pyrrholaemus sagittatus V - Lives in a wide range of eucalypt dominated This species has been recorded within the Yes assessment required. Speckled Warbler communities that have a grassy understorey. northern portion of the Hebden seam Typical habitat would include scattered native subsidence impact zone1.
tussock grasses, a sparse shrub layer, some eucalypt regrowth and an open canopy. Melithreptus gularis gularis V - Dry forests and woodlands from the tablelands Moderate to high along Glennies, Bettys Yes assessment required. Black-chinned Honeyeater and western slopes of the Great Dividing Range and Main Creeks. This species has been 0061887 rarely east of the divide except from the recorded to the north of the Project Area Richmond River district, Hunter River, Central within Mt Owen Mine Project Area and
EA/FINAL/9 Coast and Illawarra regions. Ravensworth State Forest1.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Xanthomyza phrygia E E Nomadic species following rich sources of nectar, Moderate likelihood of occurrence as a No assessment required Regent Honeyeater primarily winter flowering species. Mainly seasonal visitor only and low records in as mining operations are R
ESOURCES ESOURCES inhabits temperate woodlands and open forests of locality. Not recorded within unlikely to impact on
the inland slopes of south-east Australia. Also Ravensworth State Forest1 although seasonal foraging found in coastal woodlands and forests in some records exist from the Singleton Training resources. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT years. In NSW breeds at Capertee Valley and Area. Bundarra-Barraba region. Melanodryas cucullata V - Open woodland, mallee and Acacia scrub, often in Moderate to high likelihood of occurrence Yes assessment required.
A cucullata or near clearings or open areas. Requires in woodland remnants although grazing USTRALIA Hooded Robin (south- structurally diverse woodland with mature trees, history has lowered diversity of shrubs eastern form) shrub layer and moderately tall native grass and grasses. This species has been understorey. regularly recorded to the north of the
202 Project Area within Ravensworth State Forest1. Pomatostomus temporalis V - Open woodlands dominated by mature eucalypts, This species and nesting sites have been Yes assessment required. temporalis with regenerating trees, tall shrubs and an intact regularly recorded within the Hebden and Grey-crowned Babbler cover of grass and forbs. Also forages adjacent Barrett seam subsidence impact zones and streams in cleared areas. is likely to occur across the most of the Project Area. Stagonopleura guttata V - Prefers grassy woodlands in close proximity to Moderate to high. This species has been Yes assessment required. Diamond Firetail water. Forages on seeds and stem resources of recorded infrequently to the north of the 0061887 grasses, herbs and shrubs. Nests on the ground. Project Area within Mt Owen Mine and
Ravensworth State Forest1.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Mammals Dasyurus maculatus V E Wide range of forested habitats including High likelihood of foraging and denning. Yes assessment required. R ESOURCES ESOURCES Spotted-tail Quoll rainforest, open forest, coastal heath, riparian This species has been recorded to the forest. Nests in caves, hollow logs or tree hollows. north of the Project Area within Mt Owen
Mine 1, 4. M ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Phascolarctos cinereus V - Forests typically on high nutrient soils Moderate to low likelihood where No assessment required. Koala characterised by presence of preferred feed trees. preferred foraging trees (Forest Red Gums) occur in woodland habitat near A
USTRALIA Glennies Creek. Not recorded within Ravensworth State Forest1, 4.
Petaurus norfolcensis V - Dry sclerophyll forest and remnant woodland High likelihood of foraging and nesting Yes assessment required Squirrel Glider containing mature or mixed aged stands with within the woodland habitats. This species 203 gum-barked and winter flowering trees, and has been recorded within northern portion
mature Acacia species. Nests socially in tree of the Project Area1. hollows. Petrogale penicillata E V Occupy north facing cliffs in dry eucalypt forest Not expected to occur due to absence of No assessment required. Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby and woodland. They shelter in rock crevices, suitable habitat. caves or overhangs during the day, feeding in grassy areas above and below the cliffs in the evening. Phascogale tapoatafa V - Prefer dry sclerophyll open forest with sparse This species has been recorded to the Yes assessment required. 0061887 Brush-tailed Phascolgale groundcover of herbs, grasses, shrubs or leaf south of the Barrett seam subsidence 1
EA/FINAL/9 litter. Nest and shelter in tree hollows with impact zone and is likely to utilise the entrances 2.5 to 4 cm wide and use many different woodland habitat across the eastern hollows over a short time span. portion of the Project Area.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Pseudomys oralis V - Damp, dense fern or sedge understorey along Marginal habitat associated with drainage No assessment required. Hastings River Mouse drainage lines, but also utilises drier areas with lines and immediate environs. Moderate R
ESOURCES ESOURCES grassy or heathy ground cover. to low likelihood of occurrence.
Chalinolobus dwyeri V V Roosts in caves. Variety of habitat types including This species has been tentatively recorded No assessment required.
M dry and wet sclerophyll forest and tall open in 1999 and 2001 to the north of the Project ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Large-eared Pied Bat eucalypt forest with a rainforest sub-canopy. Area within Mt Owen Mine Project Area4.
No roost sites expected and moderate likelihood of foraging in Project Area A
USTRALIA given low numbers of records and open nature of woodland habitat.
Miniopterus australis V - Roosts in caves, old mines, stormwater channels; Moderate likelihood of foraging. No roost No assessment required. forages below the forest canopy. sites expected. This species has only been
204 Little Bentwing-bat tentatively recorded in 2001 to the north of
the Project Area within Mt Owen Mine Project Area 4. Miniopterus schreibersii V - Roosts in caves, old mines, stormwater channels; High likelihood of foraging. No roost Yes assessment required. oceanensis forages above the forest canopy. sites expected. This species has been Eastern Bentwing-bat recorded in the Project Area 2, 3. Saccolaimus flaviventris V - Roosts in tree hollows, abandoned nests of sugar This species has been recorded within the Yes assessment required. Yellow-bellied Sheathtail gliders (Petaurus breviceps) and animal burrows. Project Area3. Moderate to high likelihood 0061887 Bat Forages in almost all habitats including forest and of occurrence. woodland.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Myotis adversus V - Roosts in caves, tunnels, under bridges and in High likelihood of foraging over the dams. Yes assessment required. Large Footed Myotis dense vegetation. Forages over nearby lakes, No roost sites expected. This species has R
ESOURCES ESOURCES rivers, large streams. been recorded to the north of the Project
Area within Mt Owen Mine 1.
M Scoteanax rueppellii V - Rivers and creeks within the ranges, roosting in High likelihood of foraging and roosting. Yes assessment required. ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Greater Broad-nosed Bat tree hollows. This species has been recorded to the north of the Project Area within Mt Owen Mine 1. A
USTRALIA Nyctophilus timoriensis V V Prefers a variety of vegetation types most Moderate likelihood of occurrence, no No assessment required. Eastern Long-eared Bat commonly box-ironbark-cypress pine vegetation. recent records exist, with limited potential
Roosts in tree hollows, beneath loose bark and in roosting habitat within the Project Area. crevices. Forages on beetles and caterpillars 205 occasionally foraging on the ground. Mormopterus norfolkensis V - Wide range of forested habitats including High likelihood foraging and roosting. Yes assessment required. Eastern Freetail-bat rainforest to dry open forest. Roosts in tree This species has been recorded in the hollows and under loose bark. northern and western portions of the
Project Area 1, 2. Pteropus poliocephalus V V Forages on fruits, blossoms and nectar of High likelihood of foraging. This species Yes assessment required. Grey-headed Flying-fox eucalypts. In early summer roosts in large groups has been recorded within the northern (camps) in forests or mangroves. portion of the Project Area1.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Common/Scientific Name Status Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Required TSC EPBC Frogs Litoria aurea E V In NSW the species occupies disturbed habitats Moderate to high given records of this Yes assessment required. R ESOURCES ESOURCES Green and Golden Bell Frog and breeds largely in ephemeral ponds. species within the locality and the presence of both ephemeral and
permanent water bodies. This species has M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT been recorded to the north of the Project Area within Mt Owen Mine Project Area 1. However, it has not been recorded in the
A area since 1999 (Fauna Surveys et al 2003). USTRALIA Mixophyes iteratus V V Forage and live amongst deep, damp leave litter Low likelihood due to absence of flowing, No assessment required. in rainforests, moist eucalypt forest and nearby rocky streams.
Southern Barred Frog dry eucalypt forest at elevations below 1000 m.
206 Breeds around shallow, flowing rocky streams. References: 1 = Forest Fauna Surveys et al (2003); 2 = Countrywide Ecology Surveys (2007); 3 = Umwelt (2007); 4 = Forest Fauna Surveys et al (2006). Status in NSW as per Schedules 1 and 2 of TSC Act: E = Endangered; V = Vulnerable. Status as per EPBC Act: CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered; V = Vulnerable.
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15.8 SUBSIDENCE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The most direct environmental impact of longwall mining is subsidence, which causes changes in the level of the ground surface overlying and adjacent to the area of extraction. Predicted subsidence over the Project Area is discussed further in Chapter 8 – Subsidence Assessment and Annex E.
The following text identifies the likely impacts on flora and fauna as a consequence of tilt, strain, subsidence, clearing, cracking and alterations to surface water flows from longwall mining. First workings will result in imperceptible subsidence and consequently there is not expected to be any direct or indirect impact on flora and fauna.
15.8.1 Potential Impacts on Vegetation
Tilt
Subsidence will cause a trough centred above each longwall panel, resulting in the ground surface being subject to certain tilts and strains.
Where there is a maximum permanent predicted tilt of 90 mm/m (refer to Table 8.1) as at the Integra Underground, a vertical 15 m high tree on the side of such a trough may lean by up to 1350 mm. Although this would not normally be sufficient to cause instability, there is a possibility that trees which already have a steep lean in the direction of predicted tilt may fall. Conversely any trees leaning away from the subsidence induced tilt would be straightened. However, it is unlikely that any isolated falls that may occur would significantly alter vegetation community composition.
Tilt will not affect shrubs, herbs or grasses, as they are too short to exert significant leverage on root systems. Tilting due to subsidence will therefore not cause measurable short or long-term damage to any threatened plants or endangered ecological communities within the Project Area.
Strain
Tensile and compressive strains pull or push on structures and commonly damage inflexible material by stretching, buckling and rupturing. Compressive and tensile strains caused by subsidence act on plant roots much the same as a high wind and will have little impact on plant roots due to their inherent flexibility. In windy weather, particularly on the leeward side of trees, roots are compressed as the trunk sways away from the wind. Roots on the windward side are placed under tension, although this alternates with compression as the trunk sways back and forth.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 207
Ponding
Subsidence-related ponding and breakout of flow from the creek channel is anticipated along both Bettys and Main Creeks within the Hebden Seam subsidence footprint. Ponding depths on the floodplain will be up to 0.8 m in places. As prolonged ponding may substantially affect any vegetation growing in the area concerned, ICO propose to drain any such pond in areas outside of Bettys Creek and Main Creek. Assuming that this drainage occurs soon after ponding, few long term effects are predicted. Some minor disturbance to vegetation may occur in the area re-profiled to drain any pond.
The proposal to construct three drainage channels in the lower reaches of Main Creek to drain ponding depressions back into the creek will not significantly impact any threatened flora or fauna or their habitats. No areas of open forest or critical habitat features are likely to be disturbed given that these sections of the ephemeral creek are heavily disturbed and dominated by grassland.
Alterations to Surface Flow
Of particular note in regards to flora and fauna impacts is the Bettys Creek diversion which will extend some 1400 m and will meander within the confines of the new floodplain created by the mine subsidence. It is noted that 2500 m of the existing Bettys Creek channel is expected to be abandoned (or will no longer be functional) in constructing the diversion. Species composition within the 2500 m abandoned creek channel is likely to change based on the altered drainage patterns although it will continue to provide a habitat resource for a diverse range of native species. This change in species composition may result in the potential loss of up to five hectares of regionally significant Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest.
The proposed Bettys Creek diversion will pass through the Glendell biodiversity offset area (07_0055 Mod1 – associated Management Plan currently under consideration by the DoP) hereafter referred to as the Glendell Habitat Management Area. The Glendell Habitat Management Area extends from the western side of Bettys Creek to the edge of the Glendell Mine site (see Figure 15.3) and will involve the augmentation of 102 hectares of Central Hunter Bull Oak Forest, 49 hectares of Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest and 30 hectares of Central Hunter Box-Ironbark Woodland (Umwelt, 2007).
It is also important to note that the area of the proposed diversion works is currently heavily disturbed and dominated by grassland. The proposed diversion and revegetation works (see Section 15.14) will not result in the disturbance to any areas of open forest or significant fauna habitats. Management and revegetation works will complement the north south corridor function of the Glendell habitat management area and will promote a more diverse range of habitat opportunities including aquatic, semi-aquatic, riparian and terrestrial habitats.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 208 MS A3 500 750m Drawing size: Reviewed by: 250 15/06/09 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd SP Refer to Scale Bar Glendell Biodiversity Offset Area Boundary Grey-crowned Babbler (ERM, 2005) Grey-crowned Babbler (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2007) Grey-crowned Babbler (Umwelt, 2003) Grey-crowned Babbler nest (ERM, 2007) Grey-crowned Babbler nest (Umwelt, 2007) Speckle Warbler (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) Speckle Warbler (Umwelt, 2007) Eastern Bentwing-bat (Umwelt, 2007) Eastern Freetail-bat (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat (Umwelt, 2007) Grey-crowned Babbler (ERM, 2007) Brown Treecreeper (Umwelt, 2003) Brown Treecreeper (Umwelt, 2007) Grey-headed Flying- fox (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) Squirrel Glider (Forest Fauna Surveys et al, 2003) Grassland 0 Subsidence Impact Zone Central Hunter Bulloak Forest Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest Regenerating Native Woodland/Shrubland Revegetated Areas Hunter Valley River Oak Forest Project Area Coal Lease (CL) 382 Proposed Hebden Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads) Proposed Barrett Seam Mine Workings (Mains and Gateroads) N Legend Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_57 Figure 15.3 Date: Drawn by: Source: Bettys Creek Diversion and Glendell Biodiversity Offset Area. Scale: Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150
d B5
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Lowering of the Water Table Beyond the Reach of Plants
Groundwater assessments by GeoTerra (2009) have identified that the alluvium and shallow basement aquifers in the Bettys Creek and Glennies Creek catchments are hydraulically separated and generally respond differently to rainwater recharge and that there are no groundwater dependent ecosystems identified within the Project Area. There are a series of small dams and billabongs supporting aquatic vegetation however anecdotal evidence suggests that these dams are not groundwater fed and lowering of the water table will not directly impact any aquatic vegetation.
Clearing and Cracking
Surface cracking is unlikely to be perceptible on agricultural land but is likely to be more evident on bare hard surfaces such as roads. Rectification or remediation works (where required), are unlikely to result in any significant loss of native vegetation.
15.8.2 Potential Impacts on Fauna
Vegetation Loss
Only minimal vegetation clearing or loss is expected as a consequence of the Project, being restricted to changes to riparian vegetation along the abandoned Bettys Creek channel and rectification of indirect subsidence impacts such as ponding. Given the high mobility of the threatened Speckled Warbler, Diamond Firetail, Brown Treecreeper, Grey-crowned Babbler or microchiropteran bats, and the implementation of the management measures recommended in Section 15.13, this temporary loss of habitat is not likely to significantly impact the long term viability of these species.
The proposed longwall mining is not likely to significantly isolate or reduce the extent of the local vegetation communities present. The proposal will not remove fallen timber and will not impact on the corridor function of the Glendell Habitat Management Area.
Rock Shelters and Burrows
Bats may roost in existing rock cracks and a number of burrowing animals such as wombats are known to occur within the locality. Subsidence may widen or close these fissures and burrows. It is not possible to quantify the likelihood or number of fissure closures or burrow collapses. Whilst subsidence could threaten some roosting and shelter sites, similar habitat is common within the local area. In some cases, subsidence may increase the total roosting and shelter habitat for threatened species by widening existing fissures.
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Aquatic Habitats (Drying Of Springs, Soaks and Dams)
Subsidence may cause surface cracking and a consequent reduction in yield from soaks and springs. Whilst the loss of individual springs cannot be discounted, no observable reduction in dam water levels due to reduced spring fed recharge is anticipated (refer to Chapter 11 and Annex G) (GeoTerra, 2009).
Dams across the Project Area are fed by surface runoff and should their walls crack, a proportion of the impounded water would be released. It would therefore be beneficial to draw down dams which are full at the time of undermining to avoid leakage (refer to Annex E) (SCT, 2009). Notwithstanding, subsidence as a result of mining is unlikely to significantly impact upon this habitat resource such that a local population of threatened species would be placed at risk of extinction.
Possum Skin Dam will be decommissioned prior to any longwall mining within the Barrett mining area that would impact this structure. It should be noted that as the removal of Possum Skin Dam was a condition of Dams Safety Committee approval for its construction, no assessment of the impact of this activity on fauna was considered warranted.
15.9 IMPACT OF BOREHOLES
For pre and post mining gas drainage, it is envisaged that up to 10 gas drainage boreholes could be required per longwall panel. The exact location of the boreholes will be determined in the field in consultation with an ecologist or environmental scientist to avoid clearance of trees, shrubs and where possible stands of native grasses. Disturbance associated with each gas drainage borehole will be minimal (10 m by 10 m). The installation and fencing of the boreholes will clear approximately three hectares of grassland over the life of the Project. Once each borehole is no longer required, the impacted area will be rehabilitated. Consequently, the long term impact of the gas drainage boreholes will be minimal.
15.10 VENTILATION SHAFT AND DOWNCAST SHAFT
Future mining will require the installation of an enhanced or modified ventilation system and associated infrastructure. A range of possible ventilation and ventilation facility combinations are under consideration. Options include use of the existing Forest Road ventilation facility, installation of an upcast and downcast shaft on the surface above the Hebden Seam pit bottom, and installation of a new upcast shaft over the Hebden Seam mains in the vicinity of the existing Forest Road site. Indicative additional vent shaft locations are shown on Figure 3.4.
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Vegetation across the northern-most ventilation fan potential location is dominated by grassland with smaller areas of Central Hunter Bull Oak Forest and Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest. Vegetation across the southern-most potential fan location is dominated by grassland.
To the greatest extent practical, infrastructure will be sited to avoid impacts to vegetation. The exact location of the ventilation system and associated infrastructure will be determined in the field in consultation with an ecologist or environmental scientist to avoid clearance of trees, shrubs and where possible stands of native grasses. Therefore, the proposal will have minimal effect on existing flora and fauna in the area.
15.11 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
The proposal requires the construction of a new section of channel adjacent to Bettys Creek and the subsequent loss of surface flows to riparian habitat along the existing Bettys Creek channel. The resultant expected change in species composition may cause the loss of up to five hectares of regionally significant Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest. This proposed diversion would be the third diversion of Bettys Creek upstream of the Project Area, it has been diverted at two locations for the approved Xstrata Mt Owen Mine including a diversion of approximately 425 ha of the upper catchment of Bettys Creek to the Main Creek catchment and a diversion immediately to the north of the Project Area (WRM 2009). The upper catchment diversion of Bettys Creek for XMO significantly reduces flow into the lower reaches of Bettys Creek in the Project Area (WRM 2009). An additional diversion has been approved downstream of the Project Area for the Glendell Mine (WRM 2009).
Short term impacts to grassland will also result from the installation of borehole and ventiliation shaft infrastructure.
Provided that the mitigation measures in regards to vegetation management along the proposed diversion and abandoned channel are adhered to, it is not anticipated that these activities would add to the effects of the surrounding native vegetation clearance and associated impacts.
15.12 POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSAL ON THREATENED SPECIES, POPULATIONS OF ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES
An assessment of the potential effects of the proposal on threatened species, populations or ecological communities listed under the TSC Act was undertaken based on the Assessment of Significance in Section 5A of the EP&A Act as amended by the Threatened Species Amendment Act 2004.
The full assessment can be found in Annex K.
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15.12.1 Endangered Ecological Communities
The Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box forest occurring throughout the Project Area is representative of the vegetation community that has recently been given preliminary determination by the NSW Scientific Committee for listing as an Endangered Ecological Community under Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act. The main threat to this community is clearing, fragmentation, weed invasion and invasion of the understorey by exotic perennial grasses.
The proposal does not require clearing of Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest. The indirect impacts of subsidence on vegetation as identified in Section 15.8.1 are not predicted to adversely modify the floristic composition of the community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.
15.12.2 Birds
The proposal will result in the alteration (likely change in species composition) and possible loss of riparian habitat due to realignment of Bettys Creek. However none of the threatened birds recorded in the Project Area and / or with a high likelihood of occurring in the area is expected to be totally dependent on habitats within Bettys Creek, having been recorded largely in nearby open forest / woodland habitats.
The proposed longwall mining may cause surface cracking and will result in ground tilting that may cause some trees to lean permanently (see Section 15.8.1). This is unlikely to alter the community composition or significantly reduce the extent of potential nest sites. No direct vegetation clearance or loss of nesting resources is expected as a result of the predicted levels of subsidence and the proposal is unlikely to impact on the life cycle of these threatened birds such that a local extinction would occur.
Vegetation along Bettys Creek and Glennies Creek provides the main corridors connecting open forest / woodland habitats within the Project Area and habitat areas to the north in the Mt Owen Mine complex. The diversion of a section of Bettys Creek will fragment riparian habitat in a creek where the upper catchment has been extensively modified by the Mt Owen Coal Mine operations. The required diversion of Bettys Creek has the potential to result in changes in the floristics of the riparian vegetation along the abandoned section of Bettys Creek in the long term, and alter the availability of water resource in that section. However management of this area will limit the likelihood that this wildlife corridor would be fragmented resulting in isolation of currently connected habitats upstream and downstream of the diversion.
The clearing of approximately three hectares of grassland required for the gas drainage boreholes over the life of the Project will not significantly reduce grassland habitat resource and is not expected to impact on the lifecycle of the
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assessed bird species which are largely dependent on woodland habitats, foraging in the adjoining clearing.
The location of the proposed ventilation shaft will be determined in the field with an ecologist to avoid impacting on the assessed birds, in particular the Grey-crowned Babbler. Where possible the ventilation shaft will be located in grassland habitat to avoid loss of preferred woodland/forested habitat for the assessed birds.
15.12.3 Microchiropteran Bats - Tree Hollow Dependent
The Project Area provides foraging and roosting habitat for the Eastern Freetail-bat, Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat and Greater Broad-Nosed Bat. The main threats for these bats include clearing and fragmentation of habitat, loss of hollow-bearing trees and indirect impacts from the use of pesticides for prey species.
The proposal will not require clearing of woodland habitat and will not require the use of pesticides. Large areas of foraging habitat will remain intact in the Project Area.
Minimal disturbance to the resources within the Project Area is expected as a result of the predicted subsidence. There is a low likelihood that hollow bearing trees may lean and fall as a result of subsidence. The proposed diversion of Bettys Creek may result in changes in the floristics of the abandoned section of riparian habitat however this is unlikely to be impact on habitat availability for the bats. The proposal is therefore unlikely to affect the breeding cycle, roosting or foraging behaviour of the tree roosting microchiropteran bats such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.
The diversion of a section of Bettys Creek will fragment riparian habitat in a creek where the upper catchment has been extensively modified by Mt Owen Coal Mine. The abandoned section of the creek will not be cleared but may modify over time with changes in surface flows. These changes are unlikely to affect the corridor functions of Bettys Creek for the bats.
The installation of gas drainage boreholes will clear approximately three hectares of grassland over the life of the Project. The boreholes will be located in cleared grassland and will be decommissioned and the area of disturbance rehabilitated once each bore is no longer required. This will not impact on habitat for the bats.
The location of the proposed ventilation shaft will be determined in the field with an ecologist. Where possible the ventilation shaft will be located in grassland habitat to avoid loss of preferred woodland/forested habitat for the bats.
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The proposal is unlikely to remove or modify the habitat value of the woodland and riparian habitats in the Project Area as foraging and roosting habitat resource for the tree roosting bats.
15.12.4 Microchiropteran Bats - Cave Dependent
Cave dependent bats such as the Eastern Bentwing-bat and Large-footed Myotis are susceptible to loss of roost sites, changes in micro-climate of roost sites and reduction in foraging habitat. The proposed underground mining may actually increase the roosting habitat available for the bats as bats have been identified roosting in some underground workings in the area, and will not impact directly on the availability or extent of suitable hunting habitat in the woodland and riparian habitats.
With the exception of Possum Skin Dam, dams across the Project Area do not need draining ahead of mining. Possum Skin Dam, although the largest hunting resource for the Large-footed Myotis, was constructed in 2004 and only initially approved by the NSW Dam Safety Committee for a period of eight years, and will be removed prior to mining in the Barrett Seam. Whilst Bettys Creek will be realigned due to subsidence, the new diversion channel will continue to provide potential habitat opportunities for these species. The proposal is unlikely to impact on the life cycle of both of these species such that the local populations will be placed at risk of extinction.
The diversion of a section of Bettys Creek will fragment riparian habitat in a creek where the upper catchment has been modified by Mt Owen Complex. The abandoned section of the creek will not be cleared but may modify over time with changes in surface flows. These changes are unlikely to affect the corridor functions of Bettys Creek for the bats.
The installation of gas drainage boreholes will clear approximately three hectares of grassland over the life of the Project. The boreholes will be located in cleared grassland and will be decommissioned and the area of disturbance rehabilitated once each bore is no longer required. This will not impact on habitat for the bats.
The location of the proposed ventilation shaft will be determined in the field with an ecologist. Where possible the ventilation shaft will be located in grassland habitat to avoid loss of woodland/forested foraging habitat for the bats.
15.12.5 Grey-Headed Flying-Fox
The Project Area does not provide roosting habitat for the Grey-Headed Flying-Fox. The Project Area provides seasonal foraging resources for this species.
The foraging resources associated with the woodland and riparian habitat in the Project Area are part of a larger feeding territory for wide ranging colony
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of Grey-headed Flying-fox in the Singleton area. Any minor changes in floristics and structure as a result of subsidence impacts will not be removing, modifying, fragmenting of isolating an area of habitat that this important for the survival of the Grey-headed Flying-fox.
The installation of gas drainage boreholes will clear approximately three hectares of grassland over the life of the Project. The boreholes will be located in cleared grassland and will be decommissioned and the disturbed area rehabilitated once each borehole is no longer required. This will not impact on foraging resource for the Grey-headed Flying-fox.
The location of the proposed ventilation shaft will be determined in the field with an ecologist. Where possible the ventilation shaft will be located in grassland habitat to avoid loss of woodland/forested foraging habitat for the grey-headed flying-fox.
15.12.6 Other Mammals
The Project Area provides foraging habitat and potential den sites for the Squirrel Glider and Brush-tailed Phascogale in hollow bearing trees, and possibly denning sites for the Spotted-tailed Quoll in fallen logs in the woodland and riparian habitats.
The proposal will not require clearance of woodland habitat and large areas of foraging habitat will remain intact in the Project Area. Minimal disturbance to the habitat resources within the Project Area is expected as a result of the predicted subsidence (see Section 5.8.1). There is a low likelihood that hollow bearing trees may lean and fall as a result of subsidence and it is not expected to impact on foraging resource in the shrub strata. Further, habitat amongst fallen timber or hollow logs will not be removed for the longwall mining.
The proposed diversion of Bettys Creek may result in changes in the floristics of the abandoned section of riparian habitat however this is unlikely to be impact on foraging habitat or den sites.
The installation of gas drainage boreholes will clear approximately three hectares of grassland over the life of the Project. The boreholes will be located in cleared grassland and will be decommiossioned and the disturbed area rehabilitated once each borehole is no longer required. This will not impact on habitat for the Squirrel Glider, Brush-tailed Phascogale or Spotted-tailed Quoll.
The location of the proposed ventilation shaft will be determined in the field with an ecologist. Where possible the ventilation shaft will be located in grassland habitat to avoid loss of woodland/forested habitat.
The proposed longwall mining is unlikely to remove or modify the habitat value of the woodland and riparian habitats in the Project Area for the Squirrel Glider, Brush-tailed Phascogale or Spotted-tailed Quoll.
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The proposed longwall mining is therefore unlikely to affect the breeding cycle, roosting or foraging behaviour of the Squirrel Glider, Brush-tailed Phascogale or Spotted-tailed Quoll such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.
15.12.7 Frogs
Green and Golden Bell Frogs have been recorded to the north of the Project Area within the Mt Owen Mine, although it has not been recorded in the area since 1999 (Forest Fauna Surveys et al 2003, 2007).
The life cycle of the Green and Golden Bell Frog is threatened at spawn and tadpole stage through predation by exotic fish, in particular Gambusia holbrooki (Plague Minnow); a fungal pathogen known as Frog Chytrid Fungus; herbicides, and predation by feral animals such as foxes. They are also threatened by destruction of habitat and loss of habitat through alteration of surface drainage patterns. The proposal will not exacerbate any existing disturbance regimes or threats that may operate in habitats in the Project Area including presence of Plague Minnow or feral animals.
The main impacts of the proposal are from subsidence and alterations to surface water as identified in Chapters 8 and 10 respectively. Subsidence may cause a reduction in yield from soaks and springs, however it is anticipated that there will be no observable reduction in water levels of spring fed dams (GeoTerra 2009). In addition, subsidence may result in failure of some dam walls due to cracking of dispersive soils, however this can be remediated (WRM 2009). It is unlikely that there would be a significant reduction in availability of this habitat resource such that a local population of Green and Golden Bell Frog would be placed at risk of extinction.
The main areas of potential habitat for the Green and Golden Bell Frog in the Project Area are associated with some of the farm dams and along Bettys Creek, Main Creek or Glennies Creek. The anticipated changes in these habitats from subsidence are unlikely to be at a level that would impact on aquatic animals, provided that the diversion of Bettys Creek is revegetated with a suitable range of species to provide continued foraging and shelter resources and that any subsidence cracks in farm dams are remediated.
However, it should be noted that the diversion of a section of Bettys Creek will further modify riparian habitat in a creek where surface flows have been modified by two diversions in the Mt Owen Coal Mine upstream of the Project Area. Diversions upstream are likely to impact on the corridor functions of Bettys Creek for the Green and Golden Bell Frog such that any changes in the floristics and surface water ponding in the abandoned section of Bettys Creek within the Project Area are unlikely to further affect that corridor function.
The proposal is not expected to alter availability of potential habitat such that a local population of Green and Golden Bell Frog would be placed at risk of extinction.
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15.12.8 Summation
In summary, in accordance with the Assessment of Significance as outlined in Section 5A of the EP&A Act (refer to Annex K) as summarised above, the Project:
is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of threatened species or endangered population such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction;
will not clear or modify or impact directly or indirectly an endangered ecological community such that the local occurrence of the community is likely to be placed at risk of extinction;
will not fragment or isolate further, areas of potential habitat such that the long term survival of a species, population or ecological community is affected; and
will not effect critical habitat directly or indirectly.
The proposal constitutes a key threatening process in that it is a longwall mining proposal that may result in alteration of habitats following subsidence. The impacts on vegetation and fauna from subsidence are identified in detail in Section 15.8.1. It is unlikely that habitat structure will be altered by tilting as it is not anticipated that tilting will affect shrubs, herbs or grasses and unlikely that any isolated tree fall may alter the habitat structure in the Project Area. Further while subsidence may result in isolated tree falls, no hollow bearing trees or fallen timber will be removed from the Project Area. Strains caused by subsidence act on plant roots much the same as high wind and will have little impact on plant roots due to their inherent flexibility. Subsidence-related ponding and breakout of flows from the creek channels will be managed by a number of measures. The proposal will also result is alterations to surface flows, in particular the diversion of a section of Bettys Creek and abandonment of approximately 2500 m of the existing Bettys Creek channel. This may result in alterations to floristics of the Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest in the abandoned section of Bettys Creek. A number of measures are proposed to monitor and manage this impact and these will be developed further in a Management Plan for this area in keeping with the Mt Owen Complex Landscape Management Plan for the Glendell Habitat Management Area.
15.13 COMMONWEALTH THREATENED AND MIGRATORY SPECIES
The Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 requires approval for actions that may have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance or Commonwealth land. There are no World Heritage properties, National Heritage places, Ramsar wetlands, Commonwealth marine areas or nuclear actions on or near the Project Area. There are, however, Commonwealth listed threatened
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species and migratory species recorded or likely to occur within the Project Area.
One flora species (Bothriochloa biloba) and three fauna species (Green and Golden Bell Frog, Grey-headed Flying-fox and Spotted-tailed Quoll), listed as threatened in the EPBC Act have the potential to occur within the Project Area. The Green and Golden Bell Frog, Grey-headed Flying-fox and Spotted- tailed Quoll were all assessed under the State assessment of significance (see Section 5.12) and have not been assessed further under Commonwealth legislation. The evaluation of impacts of the proposal under State legislation indicates that threatened species, communities and populations will not be placed at risk of extinction by the proposal. Therefore, it is unnecessary to reassess the threatened species listed in the EPBC Act.
However, the evaluation of impacts presented in Section 5.12 did not consider Bothriochloa biloba as it is no longer listed under State legislation. Bothriochloa biloba was recorded within the existing ventilation shaft site and electricity easement near Forest Road. The full assessment of Bothriochloa biloba carried out under the EPBC guidelines can be found in Annex K. The proposed longwall mining activities and predicted levels of subsidence will not impact areas of potential habitat nor will it affect the life cycle or growth patterns of this species such that a local extinction would occur.
The proposal is not expected to have a significant effect upon the health and viability of any threatened or migratory species listed under the provisions of the EPBC Act.
Given the proposed modification will not impact on matters of national environmental significance, approval from the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts is not required.
15.14 MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES
15.15 AVOIDING IMPACTS
By nature of the operation, underground mining avoids direct impacts on vegetation communities and fauna habitats as there is no or only minimal requirement to clear native vegetation. Vegetation clearing required for boreholes, discussed in Section 15.9, will not remove Central Hunter Spotted Gum-Ironbark-Grey Box Forest and to the greatest extent practicable, gas drainage boreholes and ventilation infrastructure will be sited to avoid clearing of Central Hunter Bulloak Forest and Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest. The exact location of the boreholes will be determined in the field in consultation with an ecologist or environmental scientist to avoid clearance of trees, shrubs and where possible stands of native grasses.
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15.16 MITIGATION MEASURES
ICO will develop a Management Plan for the diversion channel and abandoned riparian corridor. This plan will be in keeping with the Mt Owen Complex Landscape Management Plan for the Glendell Habitat Management Area. Provided that the following mitigation measures are implemented, the impacts of the proposed mining and associated Bettys Creek diversion are unlikely to be of a scale that would result in a significant impact to species across the Project Area.
Revegetation of the diversion channel and adjacent areas with a variety of flora habitats including semi aquatic, riparian and terrestrial vegetation. Species to be used in the diversion channel revegetation will include locally occurring species such as River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamiana)/Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca), River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Rough- barked Apple (Angophora floribunda), Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) and Silver-stemmed Wattle (Acacia parvipinnula).
Revegetation using species from local provenance except where this is not practicable.
Annual surveys will be conducted along the creek diversion and revegetated areas to record any significant loss of planted seedlings as well as monitor the use of the revegetated areas by native fauna.
Revegetation design, weed management, exclusion of cattle and ongoing monitoring in the area of the Bettys Creek diversion will be coordinated in consultation with XMO in order to promote a viable long-term habitat corridor for native flora and fauna.
The abandoned creek channel will be managed (ie weed control and exclusion of cattle) in conjunction with the ongoing management and monitoring of the proposed diversion to promote natural regeneration.
Based on the ephemeral nature of the existing channel, consideration should be given to blocking off the abandoned channel at the downstream end to act as a billabong to retain any surface flows.
To minimise the potential impacts of clearing for boreholes and ventilation shaft on the Commonwealth listed grass, Bothriochloa biloba, pre-clearance inspections of the borehole sites will be undertaken during the summer flowering period to optimise detection of Bothriochloa biloba and avoid impacting directly on any individual plants. Once each borehole is no longer required, the infrastructure will be decommissioned and the area rehabilitated.
As detailed in Section 15.8.1, ICO has committed to protecting and enhancing 33.4 hectares of Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest as part of their Integra North Open Cut (MP 06_0073) Project. This vegetation community forms part of the 254 hectares of Project-related land being conserved as a Biodiversity
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Offset for this Project to compensate for the loss of approximately 75 hectares of native vegetation (none of which is Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest). ICO has also negotiated the purchase of an additional 33 hectares of non- Project-related land located to the east of the southern portion of Barrett Seam Longwall 7.
15.17 CONCLUSION
The Project Area has been considerably disturbed by land clearing and grazing and most is cleared of native forest. Seven vegetation communities (Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest, Central Hunter Bulloak Forest, Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest, Hunter Valley River Oak Forest, Grassland, Regenerating Native Woodland/Shrubland and Revegetation) were identified within the Project Area.
Of these communities the Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest, Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest, and Hunter Valley River Oak Forest are all considered regionally significant within the Upper Hunter Valley region (Peake 2006). The Central Hunter Ironbark-Spotted Gum-Grey Box Forest community has recently given preliminary determination by the NSW Scientific Committee for listing as an Endangered Ecological Community under Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the TSC Act.
A number of threatened species have been identified as occurring within the Project Area including the Grey-crowned Babbler, Speckled Warbler, Brown Treecreeper, Eastern Freetail-bat, Eastern Bentwing-bat, Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat, Squirrel Glider, Brush-tailed Phascogale and Grey-headed Flying-fox. The majority of these species, excepting the Squirrel Glider and Brush-tailed Phascogale, are highly mobile and are all dependent on woodland/forested habitats in the Project Area. A number of other threatened species that have been recorded to the north of the Project Area in the Mt Owen Mine area and Ravensworth State Forest have been considered likely to occur in habitats in the Project Area.
The most direct environmental impact on flora and fauna arising from the Integra Underground Project is subsidence, which causes changes in the level of the ground surface overlying and adjacent to the area of extraction. The key impacts predicted to occur include tilt, strain, subsidence, ponding, cracking, clearing for remediation works and alterations to surface water flows.
The minor clearance of grassland required for the gas drainage boreholes will not significantly reduce grassland habitat resource such that the lifecycle of dependent species is affected. No direct vegetation clearance or loss of nesting resources is expected as a result of the predicted levels of subsidence. Provided that the mitigation measures outlined in Section 15.14 are adopted, the impacts of the proposed mining and associated Bettys Creek diversion are unlikely to be of a scale that would result in a significant impact to these species.
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16 HERITAGE
16.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides an overview of ICO’s approach to the management of significant Aboriginal and historical heritage, discusses the results of surveys undertaken as part of this assessment and outlines management measures that will be implemented to mitigate and/or avoid potential impacts resulting from the proposal. This chapter summarises the Integra Underground Coal Project Heritage Assessment, ERM 2009c presented as Annex J.
16.2 METHODOLOGY
16.2.1 Survey Area
The Project Area and immediate surrounds have been subject to numerous archaeological investigations including; Appleton 2002, AMBS 1997, ERM 2005, 2006 and 2007, EPPS 1989, HLA 2007, and Umwelt 2003a, 2003d, 2004a, 2004b and 2007. The areas assessed in previous archaeological surveys are shown in Figure 16.1. In accordance with previous advice from the DECC, the portions of the Project Area that have previously been assessed were not included in the archaeological field survey undertaken on 28 and 29 of November 2007. The area assessed during the November 2007 field survey (hereafter referred to as the survey area) is also shown in Figure 16.1.
The assessment has been based on best available knowledge and included robust predictive modelling. Management measures presented in Section 16.5 have a broad application and the survey coverage for this assessment is considered sufficient.
16.2.2 Desktop Investigations
Searches for previously recorded sites on the Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) Aboriginal Sites Database at DECC were undertaken on 15 February 2007, 11 January 2008 and 10 September 2008 over an area measuring approximately 9 km by 11 km, centred on the Project Area. Additionally, a literature survey of the NSW DECC AHIMS library was undertaken to understand the context of archaeological sites in the broader region.
16.2.3 Aboriginal Community Consultation
The involvement and input of the Aboriginal community is an essential component of any Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment. Consultation with
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 221 Legend Project Area LW 10 - 17 Project Area (MP 06 - 0213) Bray Shaw (1986) EPPS & Associates (1989) Resource Planning 1993 ERM 1998 Umwelt (2004a) Main Creek (Umwelt 2004b) Project Area ERM 2005 HLA (2007)
Bettys Creek Umwelt (2007) Survey Area (ERM 2008) Forest Road Hebden Seam Mining Area Barrett Seam Mining Area Middle Liddell Seam First Workings Area Subsidence Impact Zone Main Creek
Notes: Boundaries offset for clarity.
Forest Road
Main k Road oo lbr Fa Glennies Creek Road e dl Stony Creek id Northern M Railway Road Nobles Lane
New
CAMBERWELL Creek Figure 16.1 Archaeological Survey Coverage
Road Glennies Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment England Drawing No: 0061887hv_EA_18 Date: 03/06/09 Drawing size: A3 Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: MS Source: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd
Bridgman Scale: NotRefer to to Scale Scale Bar 0 500 1000 1500m
Highway N Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd Building C, 33 Saunders St, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 Telephone +61 2 8584 8888
To New England Highway
the local Aboriginal community was ongoing throughout this Project as required in the DECC publication "Interim Community Consultation Requirements for Applicants” (2004).
In accordance with the above requirements, DECC, Singleton Council, the Registrar of Aboriginal Owners and the Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council (WLALC) were notified of the proposal and were asked to provide information regarding any parties that may be interested in the assessment. The National Native Title Tribunal was searched for applicants and a public notice was placed in the Newcastle Herald (25 July 2007) requesting that interested parties register in writing.
Table 16.1 lists the groups who provided written notification of their interest in the proposal. Each was involved from the outset.
Table 16.1 Aboriginal Groups Consulted
Group Name Fieldwork participant
Aboriginal Native Title Consultants Michael Matthews Barkuma Neighbourhood Centre Anne-Marie Hickey Giwiirr Consultants Jamie-Lee Stair Hunter Valley Cultural Consultants Colleen Stair Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation Alan Paget Ungooroo Culture and Community Rhonda Ward Upper Hunter Heritage Consultants Justin Matthews Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council Inc Tracey Skene Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council Donna Matthews Wattaka Wonnarua CC Services, Des Hickey (did not attend fieldwork)
A copy of the then draft Integra Coal Project Heritage Assessment, ERM 2009c, was provided to all of the registered groups for comment. A full record of the consultation undertaken for this Project, including the responses received from the registered stakeholders on the draft report is presented in Annex J.
16.2.4 Survey Methodology
A field survey was undertaken on 28 and 29 November 2007 to identify and record any Aboriginal sites/objects and historic heritage items present.
Two archaeologists and one representative from each of the registered Aboriginal groups listed were present. All landforms within the survey area were sampled along nine separate walking transects. As ground visibility was limited by vegetation coverage, the survey focused on areas of exposure and enhanced visibility.
Due to the limited archaeological visibility and exposure, effective coverage was low at only 11%. This figure would be lower, except that exposure and visibility were very high around Possum Skin Dam (80% coverage). Around
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Glennies Creek and Main Creek the exposures and visibility were very low, with an average of only 2% coverage (refer to Annex J for further details).
16.3 RESULTS
16.3.1 Aboriginal Archaeological Context
A total of 90 sites have been recorded within the Project Area on the AHIMS Database and a further 18 reported by HLA (2007) but not yet registered. Of the AHIMS sites listed within the study area the sites are predominantly artefact scatters. There are five areas of PAD and one scarred tree. It is known that at least 21 of these recorded sites have been subject to Section 90 consents and that 16 sites have permits issued for salvage excavations around Mt Owen lease, Glendell lease and Bettys Creek (ERM, 2007).
Previous archaeological work undertaken in the region and ethnohistorical information from the Hunter Valley region were used as the basis of a series of predictions about the location and content of archaeological sites in the area. It is predicted that stone artefact sites (scatters and isolated finds) are the site type most likely to be found in the Project Area. Previous studies indicate that along Bettys Creek there is a consistent low density scatter of artefacts with areas of discrete concentration centred unpredictably. The distribution of artefacts away from the creekline is far more dispersed and non-level sloping landforms, in particular, seem to contain only very sporadic and sparse evidence of human activity. Sandstone outcrops may occur within the survey area and there is a possibility that grinding grooves may be present along the creek lines.
Carved trees are extremely rare and are not expected to occur within the Project Area. Due to the level of agricultural activity in the area, stone arrangements or ceremonial grounds will not be found, and burials are also unlikely in this disturbed context. There is no indication that burials are more likely to occur in the Project Area than in any of the surrounding localities.
16.3.2 Historic Heritage Context
European settlement of the lower Hunter Valley is believed to have commenced in around 1813 (Perry 1963). Historical landuse of the Project Area has entailed agricultural activities including grazing and farming, with a gradual shift towards industrial activities since the discovery of coal deposits in the 1820s. Since the late 1960s, the coal mining industry has been the economic base of the area. Previous historical heritage studies conducted in the locality identified seven historical heritage sites, four of which are in the Project Area (see Figure 16.2). These comprised a former dwelling (MOH1), a former occupation site (MOH2), a post and rail fence line (MOH3) and a former dairy floor and
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 223 *#37-3-0628 Legend 37-3-0629 37-3-0650 *#*# [ Site Type Not Listed ) 37-3-0648 Unknown Artefact MOH1 37-6-0636 37-3-0647*# 37-3-0661 GF *#37-3-0649 *#*# *# Artefact Scatter 37-3-0657 MOH4 *# 37-3-0658 GF *# *# Artefact Scatter with PAD
37-3-0421 37-3-0646*#MOH3 37-3-0668 *# MOH2 [ *#GF37-3-0645*# Isolated Find *# GF37-3-0660 *# 37-3-0697 37-3-0659*# (! Open Site 37-3-0612 MCIS01 37-3-0611*# MCIS03! *# *# 37-3-0294 ! 37-3-0294 ! MCIS02 FG 37-3-0701 Scarred Tree ) *# 37-3-0700 37-3-0595*# 37-3-0595 *#37-3-0698 XW *#37-3-0027 37-3-0696 37-3-0699 GCS-3 GCS-4 Stone Arrangement )*# .!.! GF Historical Sites 37-3-0594 37-3-0685 37-3-0596 GCS-2 8 8 *# 37-3-0684*# ! *# .! 37-3-0680 .!.! Artefact Scatters (ERM 2008) *#11 *# 9 37-3-0597 37-3-0679.! 37-3-0607*# .! *# ! *# GCS-5 GCS-1 GCS-8 GCS-6 Isolated Find (ERM 2008) .! 37-3-0681 .! .! .! *# 12 .! .! Sites Identified by Umwelt (2006) *#37-3-0606*#37-3-0598 Main Creek 15 .! [37-3-0599 GF Sites Identified by HLA (2007) 37-3-0600 *# 37-3-0019 .! 37-3-0025 GF Sites Identified by ERM(2005) *# PSDASA Extent
37-3-0682 Project Area/Study Area *# PSDASB ! 37-3-0683 37-3-0190 Figure 16.2 *# *# 37-3-0191 # GC10 * .! All Heritage Sites within the Study Area GC9 GC16 GC14 .! GC6 37-3-0187 37-3-0187 37-3-0189 GC12 GC17.! .! 37-2-0803 *# *# .! .! GC7 .!*# GC5 (! 37-3-0188 37-3-0188 ! GC13 GC15 .! GC8 .! (!*# PSDASA.! .! .! GC2 GC1 .! GC3 .! .! GC19 .! GC4 GC18 ! Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd .! . Project: Integra Underground Coal Project
37-3-0093 Drawing No: 0061887s_GIS20_R1 37-3-0091 37-3-0092 *# 37-3-0073 *#*# 37-3-0090 *# 37-3-0077 *# Date: 13/09/2009 Drawing size: A4 *# *#37-3-0076 37-3-0078 *#37-3-0075 Drawn by: JS Reviewed by: DN 37-3-0089 *# *# 37-3-0074 *# *#37-3-0072 37-3-0069 Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd 37-3-0079 37-3-0064 Source: *#37-3-007137-3-0067 *# *#*# 37-3-0066 37-3-0153(! *#37-3-0070*#*# Scale: Refer to Scale Bar 37-3-0068*# 37-3-0569 [37-3-0570 37-3-0154 0 450 900 1,350m 37-3-0155 [ [ 37-3-0156*#*# *#37-3-0157 N *# 37-3-0158 (! Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 37-3-0080 Building C, 33 Saunders St, Pyrmont, NSW 2009
37-3-0086 (! Telephone +61 2 8584 8888 (! 37-3-0159 37-3-0087 (! 37-3-0085 37-3-0574 (! (! (! 37-3-0081 (!37-3-0160 37-3-0084 37-3-0088 (! (! 37-3-0083 37-3-0575 (! (! (!
associated cattleyards and dwelling (MOH4). These sites are suggested to date to the early 1920s and were described as ‘…representative examples of early homesteads demonstrating a cross-section of early farming practices in the locality.’ (Umwelt 2003b:4.3). All of these sites have local significance and are likely to be destroyed as a result of the Mt Owen extension.
A timber bridge, interpreted as dating to the late 19th or early 20th century, was identified along Main Creek (Site Main Creek 15) and a log girder and split timber decking bridge identified within the Glendell Mine Lease area. The bridges remained in sound condition, were unlikely to be affected by the proposed works. No management or mitigation recommendations were made (Umwelt 2003b and 2004c).
The original line of road from Singletons Ford to Muscle Creek (now Muswellbrook) also crosses the Project Area. This portion of road was in use by 1825 and originally surveyed by Robert Dixon in 1833. As the remnants of this road are not visible upon inspection, and subsequent activities (ie roads, railway line, farming etc) have been carried out over its previous alignment, it has no significant heritage value.
No other sites of historic significance were identified during the field survey.
16.3.3 Survey Results
Five new sites were defined during the most recent survey including two sites (PSDASA and PSDASB) around Possum Skin Dam and three sites (MCIS01, MCIS02, MCIS03) next to Main Creek (refer to Figure 16.2). A detailed description of each of these sites is presented in Table 16.2 along with an assessment of their research potential and significance.
The two sites around Possum Skin Dam were previously identified as five individual sites. During the field investigation it became clear that several previously identified individual sites around the Dam formed a larger, more complex artefact scatter. The five sites were subsequently rationalised into two artefact scatters.
Previously recorded sites that still exist and newly identified sites in the study area are shown in Figure 16.2. The site cards for the sites found by HLA in their 2007 survey, located south of Possum Skin Dam (Figure 16.2) had not been lodged with the DECC at the time of writing this report and their location as identified in Figure 16.2 is indicative.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 224
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Table 16.2 Assessment of Significance
Site Rarity and Representativeness Integrity Research potential Significance PSDASA PSDASA is a widely dispersed low density The artefacts are eroding out of There is a moderate possibility for PSDASA has moderate R ESOURCES ESOURCES artefact scatter located near a drainage line deposit previously covered by there to be further artefactual archaeological significance. off Glennies Creek. The site is extensive and water, but the knapping floor material below the surface. shows at least one knapping floor. indicates that the integrity of the M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT site has not been compromised. PSDASB PSDASB is a low density scatter located near PSDASB is found in an area built It is unlikely that further substantial PSDASB has low archaeological a drainage line. The site type is common up to create a road. The material archaeological deposits are present significance.
A within the locality and well represented. from which the artefacts are in association with PSDASB and is USTRALIA eroding out has been modified or eroded out of its original context. It potentially even imported from has low research potential. another area and thus the deposit is
225 out of context. MCIS01 MCIS01 is an isolated artefact located on the MCIS01 is within an area of It is unlikely that further substantial MCIS01 has low archaeological edge of Main Creek. Sites of this type are moderate to severe erosion and archaeological deposits are present significance. common within the locality and are well lacks integrity. in association with MCIS01 and is represented. eroded out of its original context. It has low research potential. MCIS02 MCIS02 is an isolated artefact located on the MCIS02 is within an area of It is unlikely that further substantial MCIS02 is of low archaeological edge of Main Creek. Sites of this type are moderate to severe erosion and archaeological deposits are present significance. common within the locality and are well lacks integrity. in association with MCIS02 and is
0061887 represented. eroded out of its original context. It has low research potential.
EA/FINAL/9 MCIS03 MCIS03 is an isolated artefact located on the MCIS03 is within an area of It is unlikely that further substantial MCIS03 is of low archaeological edge of Main Creek. Sites of this type are moderate erosion and lacks archaeological deposits are present significance. common within the locality and are well integrity. in association with MCIS03 and it
J represented. has low research potential. ULY 2009
The small number of sites and artefacts recorded during the current survey is consistent with the results of previous surveys in the locality. Artefacts were visible only in areas of exposure and were present at low density on the slope and crest landforms which constituted the bulk of survey area. A number of the exposures within the survey area were relatively large, including the vehicle tracks and associated dams. However, only limited numbers of artefacts were identified within these large exposures. These results are comparable with the results of previous investigations in the locality which found that, although artefacts may be present across all landforms, artefact densities are considerably lower in areas away from creeks and their tributaries. The identified sites within the survey area consist of a very low density scatter of artefacts across several landforms with no identifiable areas of concentration. It is therefore suggested that Aboriginal use of the majority of the survey area was probably transient rather than involving lengthy or frequent occupation. A similar conclusion has previously been reached for the remainder of the Project Area investigated.
16.4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Potential impacts resulting from the proposal include:
indirect impacts associated with the subsidence of the ground surface;
direct impacts associated with the installation of infrastructure such as gas drainage boreholes, the ventilation facility, and subsidence remediation activities; and
excavation associated with the Bettys Creek and Main Creek realignment and ponding associated with subsidence.
16.4.1 Impacts from Underground Mining
There are 108 Aboriginal archaeological sites within the Project Area. These sites consist of the 90 identified from the AHIMS search, the five identified during fieldwork and 13 recorded by HLA (originally 18 but five have been redefined as two sites in the newly identified sites). One site (37-3-0509) is recorded as destroyed. Some of these sites have section 87 or 90 consents in place but are still listed on the current AHIMS data as still being extant sites and have therefore been included in this assessment.
Other than a single scarred tree, the sites within the Project Area are all stone artefact scatters (see Figure 16.2). Although subsidence may result in the lowering of ground surface level and alterations in the morphology of landforms, vertical or horizontal displacement will not directly cause significant disturbance to the sites identified.
Changes in creek morphology or the need for subsidence remediation works along Bettys and Main Creeks has the potential to impact artefact scatters and
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 226
result in the loss of scientific integrity (refer to Section 16.4.2). Specific management measures have been outlined in Section 16.5.
The underground workings will have negligible impact on Glennies Creek. Furthermore, in the Environmental Assessment for the North Open Cut Project, ICO committed to the restoration, protection and improvement of the habitat values of the Glennies Creek riparian zone within the Project Area and the adjacent northern and supplementary biodiversity offset areas in order to provide linkages between the Project Area, biodiversity offset areas and Glennies Creek.
Indirect impacts such as earthworks works required to remediate subsidence- induced erosion, surface cracking and/or ponding across the remainder of the Project Area may also disturb surface and subsurface artefacts, although it is unlikely to affect the archaeological significance of the low density artefact scatters recorded away from of the creeklines. While these sites hold little scientific significance, they are culturally important to the Aboriginal community and specific management measures have been outlined in Section 16.5.
The installation of infrastructure such as gas drainage boreholes on the surface overlying the mine workings and/or additional mine ventilation facilities will result in ground disturbance. However, to the extent practicable, such infrastructure will be sited to avoid impacts on the recorded sites. Should impacts be unavoidable, DECC and the local Aboriginal community representatives will be consulted prior to disturbance of the sites.
16.4.2 Bettys Creek Realignment
A 2.5 km section of Bettys Creek west of the Mt Owen Spur line will be diverted as part of this Project (Figure 3.5). The 1400m long constructed diversion of Bettys Creek will involve the excavation of a 10 m wide channel dug to a depth of between 1.5 and 2 m. These works will destroy three recorded artefact scatters (37-3-0597, 37-3-0595 and 37-3-0027).
In the lower reaches of Bettys Creek, differential settlement will create a negative slope on the Bettys Creek channel, causing water to pond. The ponded water will break out of the Bettys Creek channel and flow south, abandoning a section of the existing Bettys Creek channel altogether. Water will pond on the eastern over bank area about 1 km to the south of the break out location due to local catchment runoff and overflows from Bettys Creek (WRM, 2009). Ponding may impact on the integrity of high density artefact sites recorded along the creeklines, through movement of artefacts and the resultant loss of scientific integrity.
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16.4.3 Main Creek Realignment
In the lower reaches of Main Creek, ICO propose to construct three channels to drain ponded water back into Main Creek. The locations of the three channels are shown in Figure 10.9. Where possible, the diversions have been located along the alignment of the existing channels. However, the Main Creek channel will have to be straightened to provide sufficient fall for the area to drain adequately. These works may impact two recorded artefact scatters (37-3-0682 and 37-3-0683).
16.4.4 Impacts to Historical Heritage
Sites MOH1, MOH2, MOH3 and MOH4, all within the study area, were assessed as being of local significance. Advice from the Heritage Council of NSW indicated that approval had previously been granted for the removal of these historic sites (letter from Vincent Sicari, Manager Conservation Team, Heritage Office 05/11/07). Therefore, there will be no impacts as a result of the proposed ICO activities.
Main Creek Site 15 was reported to be in sound condition and unlikely to be impacted by subsidence remediation works (Umwelt 2003d, 2004c). It is also considered unlikely to be impacted by the proposed IOC activities and is located outside of the proposed Main Creek realignment.
The original line of road from Singletons Ford to Muscle Creek (now Muswellbrook) crosses the study area (ERM 2005) and will not be impacted by the proposed works.
16.5 MANAGEMENT MEASURES
The following management measures have been developed in light of the local and regional context of the Project Area; the results of the present and previous surveys; the potential direct and indirect impacts of the proposed underground mining; and the requirements of cultural heritage legislation.
The management measures regarding Aboriginal heritage take into account both the scientific and Aboriginal (cultural) significance of the identified sites and potential archaeological deposits within the Project Area.
16.5.1 Underground Mining Operations
While the surface artefacts and low density scatters hold little scientific significance, they are culturally important to the Aboriginal community and should therefore be collected prior to mining activities. Management measures relating to underground mining operations include:
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 228
the Aboriginal community will be given the opportunity to collect any surface artefacts prior to any direct impacts from the planned mining activities, direct impacts being the above ground works, that occur in the study area;
prior to any subsidence remediation works, a qualified archaeologist will be commissioned to undertake an assessment of the predicted impact of the planned works;
the predicted subsidence levels and associated remediated works will not disturb the integrity of any potential subsurface deposit. However, should these impacts change at any time, it may necessitate archaeological sub- surface testing to be undertaken with the involvement of the Aboriginal stakeholders; and
an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plan for the underground operation has been developed in consultation with local Aboriginal representatives. This Project will be managed in accordance with the plan which will be modified as appropriate to reflect changes resulting from the proposal.
16.5.2 Bettys Creek Realignment
The realignment of Bettys Creek will impact artefact sites 37-3-0597, 37-3-0595 and 37-3-0027. Management measures relating to the realignment of Bettys Creek will include the following.
Sites 37-3-0597, 37-3-0595 and 37-3-0027 will be salvaged prior to construction of the Bettys Creek diversion, and all activities requiring soil removal associated with the realignment of Bettys Creek will be monitored by Aboriginal stakeholder groups. The salvage will be undertaken in the following manner.
A qualified archaeologist, with assistance from the local Aboriginal community, will undertake field work in the areas where surface earthworks will occur.
The fieldwork will occur while clearing of the vegetation is in progress. During this period the visibility of surface artefacts is increased making artefact detection easier and more successful.
Artefacts will be recorded individually, given a unique identifier and be recorded by GPS and digital camera, as well as logged on a database to collect relevant information ie material type, tool type, size, weight.
Once any site is salvaged, all materials, along with a full list of the details collected for each artefact would be provided to the LALC.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 229
Monitoring of excavation works along the banks of Bettys Creek will be undertaken by a representative of the Aboriginal community, so that any artefacts displaced by the earthworks can be recorded and collected.
16.5.3 Main Creek Realignment
The realignment of Main Creek may potentially impact artefact sites 37-3-0682 and 37-3-0683. Management measures relating to the realignment of Main Creek will include the following:
As the area to be impacted by the proposed works has not been surveyed in its entirety, it will be re-surveyed and the sites fully recorded and logged into a database prior to confirmation of the channel locations and design. This would be undertaken with the assistance of the Local Aboriginal stakeholder groups prior to the planned works.
Sites 37-3-0682, 37-3-0683 and any additional sites recorded during the survey will be salvaged prior to construction of the new channels, and all activities requiring soil removal associated with the realignment of Main Creek will be monitored by Aboriginal stakeholder groups. The salvage will be undertaken in the following manner:
A qualified archaeologist, with assistance from the local Aboriginal community, will undertake the field work in the areas where surface earthworks will occur;
The fieldwork will occur while clearing of the vegetation is in progress. During this period the visibility of surface artefacts is increased making artefact detection easier and more successful;
Artefacts will be recorded individually, given a unique identifier and be recorded by GPS and digital camera, as well as logged on a database to collect relevant information ie material type, tool type, size, weight; and
Once any site is salvaged, all materials, along with a full list of the details collected for each artefact would be provided to the LALC.
Monitoring of excavation works along the banks of Main Creek will be undertaken by a representative of the Aboriginal community, so that any artefacts displaced by the earthworks can be recorded and collected.
Should the additional survey highlight any areas of high cultural or scientific significance, the alignment of the proposed works will be altered (if possible) and/or subsurface investigations undertaken. This will be clarified with DECC and DoP prior to any works being undertaken. However, it is noted that based on the numerous subsurface investigations already undertaken along Bettys Creek, additional excavation of sites along Main Creek would be unlikely to serve any further scientific purpose.
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16.5.4 Historical Heritage
The proposed works are considered unlikely to impact on any of the historic heritage sites previously identified within the study area and no specific management measures have been recommended.
16.6 CONCLUSION
Potential impacts resulting from the Project relate to subsidence induced surface cracking, increased erosion, installation of gas boreholes and the ventilation facility and the excavation associated with the realignment of a section of Bettys and Main Creeks.
The implementation of management measures presented in Section 16.5 will promote the conservation of cultural heritage values across the Project Area. Where impacts are likely to occur, the Aboriginal community will be provided with the opportunity to salvage any surface artefacts prior to any disturbance occurring and monitor surface excavation works associated with the realignment of Bettys and Main Creeks.
No impact to historic heritage items or places will result from the proposal.
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17 WASTE MANAGEMENT
17.1 INTRODUCTION
A comprehensive waste management program currently governs the management of waste at the Integra Underground. The program encompasses the waste hierarchy principles of:
avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption;
resource recovery, including reuse, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery as a means of continual reduction in waste generation; and
disposal, ensuring that all wastes not recovered are disposed of by licensed contractors and undertaken in an environmentally responsible manner.
The program, prepared in accordance with the Integra Underground Procedure PRO_0381 - Waste Management, is successfully implemented for all current operations and will be extended to include all new or proposed activities.
17.2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
17.2.1 Waste Streams
Waste streams generated indirectly or directly at the Integra Underground include production wastes such as coarse and fine rejects and non-production waste. This chapter addresses non-production wastes. Production waste is addressed in Chapter 2 – Existing Operations and Chapter 3 – Project Description while Chapter 10 – Surface Water which addresses wastewater management.
17.2.2 Current Waste Management
Sorting or separation of waste streams forms a key component of ICO’s waste management strategy with the recycling of materials encouraged at all levels of the operation. Table 17.1 identifies the various forms of waste produced, the specific management procedures and the annual quantity, and indicates whether or not they are tracked/recorded. Waste treatment (where required) is preferably performed on the site of generation to reduce hazard or nuisance. If the strategies for recycling or re-use are not appropriate or viable, disposal is the adopted option. Any hazardous, Industrial or Group A wastes removed from site are subject to Waste Tracking Legislation in accordance with the Protection the Environment Operations Act 1997.
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Table 17.1 Waste Management Procedures
E Waste Item Management Procedure Annual Tracked/ NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Useage1 Recorded Water Mine water is pumped from sumps in the underground workings into the portal sump for reuse for dust 420 ML Yes suppression at the Integra Underground and Open Cut, and at the CHPP. Water is also pumped to neighbouring mines. R ESOURCES ESOURCES Surface water run-off from non-mine affected or rehabilitated areas reports to sediment dams (as appropriate) prior to flowing into regional systems.
M ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Waste Oil All waste oils are pumped into on-site storage tanks for subsequent transfer to a registered waste disposal 12,000 L Yes company.
A Used Batteries Old batteries are stored in a designated bin located in the muster area prior to collection by licensed contractors. 2200 kg Yes USTRALIA
Scrap Steel All scrap steel is placed into dedicated skips which are sold to scrap steel merchants for recycling. 100 Yes Tonnes
233 1000L Chemical Bulk chemical containers (pallecons) are returned to the suppliers for re-use as part of the supply agreement. Reused NA Containers These are temporarily stored in an allocated area in the stores laydown area prior to their return. The persons purchasing the chemical are responsible for organising the return of the empty containers.
Hardwood Hardwood pallets are stockpiled in the laydown area where they are collected by a recycling contractor. Presently 400 Yes Pallets collection occurs once 100 pallets are available. pallets
Cardboard/ Colour coded recycling containers are placed in identified areas for collection of cardboard and paper products. 5,000 kg Yes Paper These, and smaller receptacles in the administration and office areas, are collected regularly by licensed providers.
0061887 Sewerage Wastewater from the site offices, administration building, maintenance areas and bath houses are treated using Irrigated NA
EA/FINAL/9 aerated wastewater treatment systems before being discharged to an anaerobic and aerobic dam system. The water is then surface irrigated onto adjacent land in accordance with regulatory requirements. Sludge from the aerated wastewater systems is pumped out as required (following quarterly inspections of the
J ULY systems) by contractors and disposed of at a licensed waste management facility. 2009
Waste Item Management Procedure Annual Tracked/ Useage1 Recorded
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Hydrocarbons Hazardous materials including oils, fuels and solvents are stored in accordance with Australian Standards. A spill 3,500 L Yes / Hazardous response procedure (PRO_0313) is in place which addresses cleanup procedures should there be a spill. of Materials Old paints/ preservatives, disused chemicals, solvents, and coolants that need to be disposed of are stored within coolant an allocated area prior to being removed by a licensed hazardous waste contractor. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES Solvents Liquid waste from parts washers are contained in 200L drums for removal by licensed waste contractors. 1,800 L Yes Where more than one drum is removed at a time, the waste is subject to waste tracking in accordance with the M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Waste Tracking Legislation.
Used Tyres Where possible the contract for the supply of tyres includes the return of used/old tyres to the supplier. Where Reused NA
A this is not possible, tyres are collected and removed by a tyre service centre. USTRALIA
Waste Oil Waste oil filters are stored in designated bins and are taken to a recycling facility by a registered waste disposal Six 240 L Yes Filters / Oily company. At the recycling facility, these are crushed to recover all oil and subsequently, both the oil and metal is bins of
234 Waste recycled. oil filters Materials still containing liquid are not disposed of to landfill. These materials are removed by licensed and 259 contractors for recycling or disposal at a licensed waste management facility. kg of oily Liquid oily waste is subject to waste tracking in accordance with Waste Tracking Legislation. rags
Domestic Domestic wastes originating from surface administration stores and workshop facilities, together with routine 380 Yes Waste / maintenance consumables such as grease cartridges, are separated and placed in colour coded bins for collection. Tonnes Maintenance These bins are collected weekly by a licensed waste management contractor. Consumables 240 litre orange bins and purple 3 m3 skips are used for recyclable materials and green 3 m3 skips are used for 3
0061887 general wastes. Green 15 m bulk skips are located at the surface facilities. 1. Approximate
EA/FINAL/9
J ULY 2009
In addition to the procedures listed in Table 17.1, all personnel are required to undergo Environmental Awareness Training which includes the management of waste.
17.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
No change from the annual volume of waste currently generated by the operation will occur as a result of the proposal. Continued implementation of current waste management procedures as amended to reflect improved technology or practice, will minimise potential adverse impacts resulting from waste generation.
17.4 MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Wastes will continue to be managed as outlined in Table 17.1 and in accordance with the Integra Underground Procedure PRO_0381 - Waste Management.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 235
18 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT
18.1 INTRODUCTION
This assessment provides an overview of the existing road and rail network in and surrounding the Project Area. It reviews the contribution of traffic and rail movements generated from the existing Integra Underground operations, assesses the potential impacts resulting from the Project and provides appropriate management measures.
Air quality and noise impacts associated with coal transport within the Project Area have been considered in the relevant assessments (Chapter 12 – Air Quality and 14 – Noise and Vibration).
18.2 EXISTING TRANSPORT NETWORK
18.2.1 Road Network
The existing road network within and surrounding the Project Area is shown in Figure 18.1. The Integra Underground site offices are accessed from Middle Falbrook Road, with access to Middle Falbrook Road from the New England Highway being via Bridgman Road and Stony Creek Road. Some heavy vehicles, together with personnel working within the CHPP, access the area via Bridgman Road and the Open Cut site access road.
Stony Creek Road comprises a 6.5 m to 7.0 m sealed pavement with 2 m shoulders, and is in good condition. Middle Falbrook Road comprises a 7 m sealed pavement with 2 m shoulders and is also in good condition. The bridge located on Middle Falbrook Road may occasionally be used by large trucks (particularly those accessing the mine from Muswellbrook). No load limits apply to this one lane bridge. The bridge is regulated by Singleton Shire
Council and any restriction to use would be determined by the Council.
The upgrading of Stony Creek Road and Middle Falbrook Roads (between Stony Creek Road and the Integra Underground facilities area) was undertaken by Maitland Main Collieries Pty Ltd in 1996 in fulfilment of a condition of development consent DA 105/90 for the Glennies Creek Colliery (now referred to as the Integra Underground). In 2007, also in accordance with DA 105/90, the intersection of Stony Creek Road and Bridgman Road was upgraded to enable traffic to enter and leave Stony Creek Road without
disrupting flows on Bridgman Road.
Forest Road is a secondary road heading in a northerly direction to the east of the Mt Owen Rail Spur. It is a single lane gravel thoroughfare, typical of many rural access roads in the Singleton Shire which provides access to ICO’s existing ventilation shaft site and limited access to rural land in the area
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 236 To Muswellbrook
Road
Forest Road Falbrook
Mt Owen Rail Spur
RAVENSWORTH
Creek Main Thomas Ln
Glennies Creek Road Forest Road 3 4 Railway Northern GLENNIES CREEK Nobles Ln 2 Stony Creek 1 Creek Road
Glennies Road
Glennies
Main CAMBERWELL
Bridgman Road
Northern
Railway
RIXS CREEKTo Singleton
Figure 18.1 Legend Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Road Network Project Area Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Traffic Counter Drawing No: 0061887hvEA_07 Date: 15/06/09 Drawing size: A4 Portal Area and Highwall Entry Drawn by: SP Reviewed by: TP Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd Source: RW Corkery & Co. Pty Ltd, 2007 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 Scale: Refer to Scale Bar
0 1 2km N
between Glennies Creek Road and the northern Ravensworth district. 2.5km to the north of the Ventilation Shaft Site, there is a locked gate limiting access, with the road beyond the gate controlled by Mt Owen Mine. The rear of one property can be accessed from the road.
18.2.2 Traffic Volumes
Traffic volumes within and surrounding the Project Area were recorded in 2006 at the following locations (see Figure 18.1) as part of the investigations for the proposed Glennies Creek Open Cut mine. The seven day average daily directional traffic volumes for light and heavy vehicles, together with the maximum hourly movements derived from the counts are presented in Table 18.1.
Site 1 – Middle Falbrook Road between Nobles Lane and the entrance to the Integra Underground surface facilities area.
Site 2 – Stony Creek road near the intersection with Middle Falbrook Road.
Site 3 – Middle Falbrook Road between Stony Creek Road and the bridge over Glennies Creek.
Site 4 – Glennies Creek Road north of Nobles Lane.
Given that there have been no significant changes at the Integra Underground since this time and no significant changes in local landuse, these traffic numbers remain valid.
Table 18.1 7 Day Average Daily Traffic Volumes Surrounding the Project Area (14-20th July 2006)
Average Daily Vehicle Movements Maximum Hourly Movements2 Light Vehicles Heavy Vehicles1 Total Site 1 - Northbound 178 26 201 60 Site 1 - Southbound 181 25 206 68 Site 2 - Eastbound 248 25 273 60 Site 2 - Westbound 245 32 277 63 Site 3 - Northbound 101 12 113 18 Site 3 - Southbound 100 10 110 16 Site 4 - Northbound 81 22 103 12 Site 4 - Southbound 84 10 94 17 1. Heavy Vehicles = Class 3 and above 2. All vehicle classes Source: R.W.Corkery & Co., 2007
As shown in Table 18.1, traffic levels on most local roads are low and generally well within the 500 vehicles per day recognised as a level appropriate to local rural roads. The 550 average daily movements of vehicles on Stony Creek
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Road near Middle Falbrook Road (Site 2) are of a level consistent with a rural collector road (R.W. Corkery, 2007).
Vehicle movements to and from the site include employee transport, suppliers, deliveries, maintenance and contractor movements and visitors and may vary on a daily basis depending on many factors including the phase in mining operations. For example, during longwall changeouts, additional contracted personnel and equipment are used on site for a period of some four to five weeks.
The current shifts at the Integra underground are as shown in Table 18.2.
Table 18.2 Shifts at the Integra Underground
Shift Times Day 6:30am to 1:30pm to 10:00pm to 10:00am to 10:00pm to 3:00pm 11:30pm 8:00am 10:00pm 10:00am Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Hourly traffic count data used to prepare Table 18.1 shows distinct peaks in traffic flows towards the Integra Underground on Monday to Thursday around the hour periods commencing 6:00am, 9:00am, 1:00pm and 9:00pm, with peak hourly traffic flows away occurring around 7:00am, 2:00pm and 9:00pm. These generally reflect the shift times shown in Table 18.2. Similarly, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays there are distinct peaks in traffic flows towards the Integra Underground during the hour periods commencing 9:00am and 9:00pm and away occurring around 11:00am and 11:00pm. There is an additional smaller increase in traffic volume prior to 9:00am Monday to Friday attributable to many of the persons on rural/residential lifestyle blocks travelling to work in Singleton and its surrounds (R.W. Corkery, 2007).
The staggered weekday shift changes help to distribute traffic movements throughout the day, thereby minimising the potential impacts of concentrated traffic flows on the surrounding road network.
18.2.3 Rail Network and Transport
The Hunter Valley rail corridor includes the Main Northern Line which Integra (including both underground and open cut operations) utilises for transporting product coal to Port Waratah in Newcastle. The Main Northern Railway Line is managed by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC),
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while the return balloon rail loop servicing the Integra train loader is a private siding off this main ARTC network.
From the point at which the Integra rail loop joins the Main Northern Line, it is approximately 90 km by rail to Newcastle. The Integra Coal Project typically transports coal from the CHPP in trains with a net capacity of 8,500 t. Trains can be expected at any hour on any day of the week (24 hrs a day, 7 days per week) depending on scheduling requirements. During 2007 and 2008, an average of less than two trains were loaded per day, with a maximum of 7 trains loaded in a single day.
Table 18.3 presents the train numbers on the Main Northern Rail Line between Maitland and Branxton as reported in an acoustic assessment conducted in 2009 for ICO as part of the Integra Open Cut Project (Heggies Pty Ltd, 2009).
Table 18.3 Existing Daily Train Movements1
Train Period Average Peak Train Length (metres) Train Speed Type Passbys Passbys (approximate) (kmh) Passenger Daytime 67 77 50/100 80 Freight 21 22 755/760/1200/1500 60 Coal2 111 112 1543 60 Passenger Night- 23 28 50/100 80 Freight time 16 17 755/760/1200/1500 60 Coal2 66 67 1543 60
1. Sourced from Integra Open Cut Project Noise Assessment (Heggies Pty Ltd, 2009). Daily train movements were sourced from ARTC’s “Standard Working Timetable – Freight and Country Passenger services from 5th August 2007 – Book 5 North and North West” effective 8 January 2008. In order to determine the maxiumum nmber of allowable train movements on the main Northern Railway all timetabled slots have been included in the above count. 2. Includes trains departing from the CHPP. The proposed underground mining and ancillary activities will not add to the current number of trains departing from the CHPP train loader
Current actual train movements on the Main Northern Railway (passing through Belford Station) were documented in GHD’s “Australian Rail Track Corporation Report on ARTC Minimbah Third Track Environmental Assessment - Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment” (Minimbah Assessment) dated July 2008, prepared for the Minimbah Bank Third Track Environmental Assessment. Following a review of the coal train passby log presented in the Minimbah Assessment for the period between 13 March and 2 April 2008, the actual maximum daily passbys were 63 coal trains during the daytime period and 35 coal trains during the night-time period (Heggies, 2009).
The proposed underground mining and ancillary activities will not add to the current number of trains departing from the CHPP train loader.
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18.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
18.3.1 Road Transport
The Project would see the continued employment of the current workforce across the underground operation and the associated surface facilities (ie CHPP). As no increase in employee numbers is anticipated, there would be no additional project-related impact on the current road network and capacities. Similarly, given that the Project largely involves the continuation of current activities on site, the inflow of traffic associated with support activities and maintenance will also remain relatively stable in relation to current numbers, and be readily supported by the existing local road network. Notwithstanding, should the Singleton Shire Council consider it desirable, ICO would finance linemarking of Stony Creek Road and Middle Falbrook Road.
Subsidence impacts on roads are detailed in Section 9.2.1. The following impacts are predicted.
Minor vertical subsidence of up to 0.5m could occur in the vicinity of Glennies Creek Road.
Vertical subsidence of 30mm, a tilt of 0.05 mm/m and horizontal strains of 0.5mm/mm are predicted across the bridge over Main Creek.
Subsidence of between 1.5m and 2m and the development of tilts and strains in the vicinity of Middle Falbrook Road and Stony Creek Road over the Barrett Seam mining area, resulting in significant disturbance to the road surface and vertical alignment.
Vertical subsidence of between 3.5m and 4m, associated horizontal strains and tilts and surface cracks up to 50mm wide over the solid goaf edges in the vicinity of Forest Road.
No perceptible subsidence-induced impacts on Nobles Lane.
Roads expected to experience subsidence impacts will be managed and monitored in a manner similar to those already subject to Management Plans, as detailed in Section 9.2.1.
No road closures or diversions will be required as a consequence of the road transport requirements for the Project.
18.3.2 Rail Transport
Table 18.3 identifies existing daily train movements on the Main Northern Rail Line between Maitland and Branxton (Heggies Pty Ltd 2009). The train movements are inclusive of trains departing from the CHPP. The proposed
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mining and ancillary activities will not add to the current number of trains departing from the CHPP train loader.
The Camberwell (Integra Open Cut) development consent, DA 86/2889, permits the processing of approximately 1200 tph ROM coal through the CHPP. As this project application is not seeking to increase these limits, the maximum number of train movements required to haul ICO’s product coal from site will not increase as a consequence of this proposal.
All coal produced from the Project will continue to be processed at the CHPP and transported from the CHPP by rail. Therefore, there is no requirement for consideration of alternative transport modes and routes.
The Main Northern Rail Line is subject to ARTC’s Hunter Valley Coal Network Capacity Improvement Strategy. The aim of the Strategy is to ensure that the capacity of the rail component of the export coal supply chain is maintained ahead of demand. ICO will continue to work with the ARTC and fully co-operate regarding any future strategies and planning for the Hunter Valley Rail Corridor.
18.4 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT
Current traffic and transport management measures, as well as the implementation of Road Subsidence Management Plans will continue to ensure impacts on local road users from the Integra Underground are minimised and include monitoring, maintenance and remediation as detailed in Section 8.3. These measures include strict adherence to RTA and Council restrictions on transport hours and load limits as well as safety/warning requirements for “oversize” loads such as large mining equipment. The public will also be encouraged to report alleged incidents of irresponsible driving to the Integra Underground management by means of the dedicated community hotline.
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19 VISUAL ASSESSMENT
19.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents an assessment of the potential impacts on visual amenity arising from the proposed Integra Underground Project. The majority of activities will be underground, with only the ventilation facility, gas drainage boreholes, the modified section of Bettys Creek, the augmented facilities within the existing surface facilities area, and subsidence rectification works having the potential to affect views.
19.2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
The visual landscape around the Integra Underground and associated area of the Hunter Valley is dominated by mining and supporting industrial infrastructure: The area contains the highest proportion of coal mines in NSW. Large areas of the landscape have also been cleared for agricultural purposes, primarily for dairy and cattle farming.
As described in Section 1.4.2, the landscape within and adjacent to the Project Area is highly disturbed from its natural state, with the dominant land uses being mining and grazing. The Project Area also contains areas of remnant vegetation, and infrastructure associated with the Integra Underground, Integra Open Cut and surrounding mining operations.
19.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
19.3.1 Ventilation Facility
A range of possible ventilation facility combinations are under consideration for the enhanced or modified ventilation system (see Section 3.3.3), with the existing and proposed ventilation facility locations shown on Figure 3.4.
Options under consideration include modification of the existing Forest Road ventilation facility, the installation of an upcast and downcast shaft on the surface above the Hebden Seam pit bottom, and the installation of a new upcast shaft over the Hebden Seam mains to the north-west of the existing Forest Road site.
Modification to the existing Forest Road ventilation facility (shown in Photograph 3) would not significantly impact visual amenity: if the modification occurs it would be likely to only necessitate a marginal increase in the size of fans. Potential impacts resulting from the alternative options are discussed below.
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Forest Road Ventilation Facility.
Photograph 4
Gas drainage borehole with extraction equipment fitted.
Photograph 5
Gas drainage borehole with fitted pipeline and no extraction equipment.
Photograph 3,4 and 5 Client: Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd Project: Integra Underground Coal Project Environmental Assessment Drawing No: 00618871hv_EA_55 Date: 15/06/09 Drawing size: A4 Drawn by: JD Reviewed by: MS Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 53 Bonville Avenue, Thornton, NSW 2322 Source: - Telephone +61 2 4964 2150 Scale: Refer to Scale Bar
Should either of the nominated options for a new ventilation facility be selected, it is anticipated that the layout and visual appearance would be similar to the Forest Road ventilation facility shown in Photograph 3. The facility (approximately 25 m by 50 m) would appear as typical mine related infrastructure and its colour would be blended to match the surrounding environment.
If required, lighting would be of low intensity, and operated only for short periods during maintenance or for safety.
The closest privately-owned residence to the Hebden Seam pit bottom site is approximately 0.4 km to the south (receptor 87 – Figure 12.1). The next closest privately-owned residences are in Camberwell village, with the nearest of these being over 1 km to the south-west. However, the Integra Underground cannot be viewed from the village due to a ridgeline between the village and mine. Given the distance from privately-owned receptors, the local topography, and the relatively small footprint of the ventilation facility, this proposed option would either not be visible or would not significantly impact visual amenity at any privately-owned residences.
The closest mine-owned receptor, receptor 84 (Figure 12.1), is located immediately adjacent to the proposed location and would have views of the ventilation facility, however Receptor 84 is unoccupied and derelict. This property is located immediately adjacent to the visually dominant Ashton Open Cut Pit.
Motorists travelling along Forest Road and Glennies Creek Road would have fleeting views of the Hebden Seam pit bottom site. However, the facility would not be dissimilar to other mining related infrastructure, and roadside vegetation would partially shield the views from motorists. Therefore, the viewscape for these receivers would not be significantly impacted. ICO will however, construct a vegetated bund or plant a vegetation screen around the site, to further reduce any potential visual amenity effects.
The closest privately-owned residence to the Hebden Seam Mains site is over 2 km to the south-east with the closest mine-owned residence approximately 1 km to the north-east. Given the distance between these properties and this potential ventilation facility site, and the vegetated areas in between, the viewscape of these residences would not be significantly impacted if this option was preferred.
The Hebden Seam Mains site option would not be visible to road users.
19.3.2 Gas Drainage
Up to 10 gas drainage boreholes could be required per longwall panel, with four boreholes above the Hebden Seam, and two above the Barrett Seam having gas extraction plants operating during mining of these panels.
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Historically, each gas drainage borehole at the Integra Underground has typically been in place for approximately 12 to 18 months.
The ultimate location of the boreholes will be determined on the basis of mine gas levels and operational experience in the adjacent mined panels, but will be chosen to avoid specific surface features such as surface water drainage paths, areas of cultural heritage significance or areas of ecological sensitivity.
Photograph 4 depicts a typical gas drainage borehole with extraction equipment fitted while Photograph 5 depicts a gas drainage borehole with a pipeline linkage to the Glennies Creek Power Station.
Surface gas drainage borehole infrastructure not linked to the Power Station will generally include a free venting stack complete with flame arrestors and a fire suppression system, and lightning protection in a 10 m by 10 m fenced enclosure. Where a gas drainage borehole is connected to a power generation facility, the major of the items of equipment shown in Photograph 4 are not required and, beyond the fenced compound, the pipelines are permanently buried and not a source of visual impact.
When appropriate and possible, gas will be flared utilising flaring units. Indicatively, the unit will comprise a vertical stack measuring approximately 3 – 5 m in height. Units will be contained within the 10 m by 10 m fenced enclosure. Flares will be open or closed depending on the sensitivity of the borehole location.
Timer-controlled lighting powered by the gas extraction plant itself will be installed at each plant, although will be only infrequently used. In general, inspections after dark will be restricted to periods when the plant is not operating, thereby necessitating the use of a torch or car headlights to illuminate the area.
Once each gas drainage borehole is no longer required to manage gas levels underground, the surface infrastructure will be removed. The borehole will then be sealed with concrete, the pre-disturbance landform re-established, soil replaced and the area scarified, seeded and fertilised in accordance with the landowner's requirements.
Boreholes may be visible to some sensitive receivers including privately- owned residences and road users. However, given that much of the land where boreholes would be installed is used principally for grazing with some cropping, the temporary nature of the boreholes, and the relatively small infrastructure footprint, these surface features will not significantly impact visual amenity.
19.3.3 Hebden Surface Facilities and Barrett Seam Portal Infrastructure
In order to support the development and operation of the Hebden Seam mining activities, limited additional facilities may be required (see Section
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3.3.4). The additional infrastrcturte will be located within the areas of prior mine related disturbance within the existing surface facilities area. Buildings would be consistent with the majority of existing structures. It is envisaged that any such facilities would be of a portable / demountable nature.
The additional infrastructure, should it be required, will be located in areas of previous mine related disturbance within the existing surface facilities area. The infrastructure will be small in scale, wihtin exitsing areas of disturbance adjacent to existing faciltiies and will therefore be hardly distinguishable.
The establishment of infrastructure in the final void of the approved Integra North Open Cut will be required for Barrett Seam operations (see Section 3.3.4). Sensitive receivers will not have views of the infrastructure due to its location in the void. Any lighting installed above the highwall will be designed to minimise light emissions toward surrounding residences and comply with Australian Standard AS4282 (INT) 1995 – Control of Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting.
19.3.4 Bettys Creek Diversion
The proposed Bettys Creek diversion will extend some 1.4 km in the north- western portion of the Project Area, in an area which is predominately clear of native woody vegetation. Currently, vehicles traversing Forest Road have fleeting views of the area proposed for the diversion and revegetation works. However, the diversion will pass through the recently approved Glendell Habitat Enhancement Area (see Chapter 15) and it is therefore unlikely that the area will be visible by the time diversion and revegetation works are required.
Species composition within the 2.5 km abandoned creek channel is likely to change over time as a result of the altered drainage patterns. However, as the change will be gradual, it will not noticeably change the viewscape. Additionally, there are no sensitive receivers that have near views of this area.
19.3.5 Subsidence Rectification Works
As discussed in Chapter 8 – Subsidence, areas within the northern portion of the Project Area will be subject to varying levels of subsidence. However, the scale of the change would not be noticeable to the casual observer. Any rectification works undertaken would be similar in form and scale to the minor earthworks routinely undertaken on the local agricultural properties.
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19.4 MANAGEMENT MEASURES
General visual impact management measures that are currently employed, and will continue to be implemented at the Integra Underground, include:
restriction of the area of disturbance to the minimum practicable;
placement of facilities to minimise disturbance of vegetation;
maintaining the site in a clean and tidy condition;
progressive rehabilitation as required across the Project Area;
installation of bunding and/ or vegetative screens to minimise impact;
access track positioning to prevent headlights impinging on residences;
routine use of low beam on vehicle headlights by all construction and maintenance personnel;
awareness through environmental inductions to ensure that employees are aware of potential impacts of lighting equipment and its operation on sensitive locations; and
ensuring lighting is directed away from residences through the use of directional lighting and shielding in accordance with safety regulations, and which complies with Australian Standard AS4282 (INT) 1995 – Control of Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting.
Measures relating specifically to changes resulting from this proposal include:
borehole site selection in order to minimise the extent of disturbance, in particular tree removal;
consideration of appropriate colours for the ventilation facility structural elements to complement the surrounding environment;
construction of vegetated bunding or a vegetation screen around the ventilation facility; and
positioning of access roads to avoid vehicle and equipment lights shining towards local residences during maintenance.
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19.5 CONCLUSIONS
The Integra Underground is well established in an area dominated by mining and agriculture. Changes to the existing viewscape resulting from the proposal are minor and include the ventilation facility, gas drainage boreholes and the modified section of Bettys Creek, most of which are generally remote from regularly used publicly accessible vantage points or local residents.
The management measures presented will ensure that the proposal will not significantly impact the visual amenity at any sensitive receiver.
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20 SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT
20.1 INTRODUCTION
This socio-economic impact analysis assesses the direct and indirect impacts of the Project at Local, Regional and National levels. The likely impacts, both positive and negative, are described and strategies which minimise the negative impacts are proposed.
The assessment identifies the impacts of the Project which effect (Armour 1992):
people’s way of life – how they live, play and interact with one another on a day-to-day basis;
their culture – shared benefits, customs and values; and
their community – its cohesion, stability, character, services and facilities.
20.2 SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
20.2.1 Methodology
Using the Armour (1992) definition of social impact, this assessment uses an approach consistent with the requirements for conducting socio-economic assessments in NSW (Social Policy Directorate Social Impact Assessment Practice Policy Document) as well as international practice to identify the likely socio-economic impacts of this proposal.
The steps undertaken in completion of this assessment comprised:
scoping – identifying issues and affected groups;
profiling – data collection, identifying trends and assessing current social context;
predicting – identifying possible future impacts; and
assessing – analysis of impacts.
20.2.2 Scope
The affected groups or communities are most easily distinguished in terms of geographic or spatial boundaries. The community within the immediate vicinity of the site is most likely to experience direct physical impacts as a result of the proposal, whereas, the regional and wider communities are most
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likely to experience indirect, service demand and economic impacts. The analysis has therefore identified three discrete communities that are considered individually within the assessment.
The communities identified are:
the Local Community – defined as the community within the immediate vicinity of the Project Area that is most likely to be affected physically by the proposal. The boundaries for the Local Community were identified on the basis of information regarding the potential acoustic, visual, air quality and subsidence impacts arising from the proposal. This area is captured by the ABS Census Collectors Districts (CCD) 1130804 and 1130811. The population profile for the Local Community therefore represents those within these two CCD areas;
the Singleton Community – defined as the Singleton Local Government Area (LGA), is most likely to experience some direct physical impacts such as continuation in service demand, as well as economic impacts. The LGA boundaries also align with the ABS boundaries at the time this assessment was undertaken; and
the Regional Community - comprises the Hunter Statistical Division (SD), NSW State and National communities, that is, those communities which are most likely to experience positive economic impacts resulting from the proposal.
20.2.3 Demographic Characteristics
This profile has been prepared using publicly available information from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Where census data is unavailable, Singleton LGA and Hunter SD have been compared to NSW statistics. (Note: total figures for all age cohort tables are calculated on the basis of individual cohort figures. This means that in some instances totals will differ marginally due to the ABS policy of randomisation.)
In 2006, the total population of the Local Community was 677, while the population of Singleton LGA was 21 938 and the population for the Hunter SD was 589 238.
As shown in Table 20.1 and Figure 20.1, the key differences in the age profiles of the three areas were in the cohort groups for people aged 5 – 14 years, 35 - 44 years and 65 years and above. In the Hunter SD, 15.9% of the population was aged over 65 years in 2006. This proportion is much higher than Singleton LGA where this group represents 9.5% of the population and for the Local Community where this group comprised only 5.1% of the population. Singleton LGA and the Local Community therefore have a much younger age profile than the Hunter SD.
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Table 20.1 Population Distribution
Age Profile Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD 0-4 years 7.2% 7.6% 6.2% 5-14 years 19.1% 16.8% 13.6% 15-24 years 13.3% 13.3% 13.1% 25-34 years 9.7% 13.0% 11.7% 35-44 years 18.0% 15.7% 13.7% 45-54 years 15.8% 14.2% 13.9% 55-64 years 11.8% 10.0% 11.9% 65-74 years 2.7% 5.1% 8.1% 75 years and over 2.4% 4.4% 7.8% Total 677 21,938 589,238 Source: ABS Census 2006.
Figure 20.1 Graphical Population Distribution
20.0%
18.0%
16.0%
14.0%
12.0%
10.0%
8.0%
6.0%
4.0%
2.0%
0.0% 0-4 years 5-14 years 15-24 years 25-34 years 35-44 years 45-54 years 55-64 years 65-74 years 75 years and over Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD
Table 20.2 and Table 20.3 present household characteristics. The Local Community and Singleton LGA both had higher proportions of family households than the Hunter SD. The proportion of family households in Singleton LGA and the Local Community were comparable, representing 79.3% in the Local Community and 78.6% in the Singleton LGA. In the Hunter SD this proportion of family households was 71.8%.
In 2006 just over half (56.3%) of family households in the Local Community were couples with children which was just over 4% higher than for Singleton LGA, and almost 14% higher than for the Hunter SD.
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Table 20.2 Type of Household
Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD Number % Number % Number % Family household 172 79.26% 5,723 78.57% 157,844 71.78% Lone person household 39 17.97% 1,388 19.06% 54,942 24.99% Group household 6 2.76% 173 2.38% 7,108 3.23% Total Households 217 7,284 219,894 Source: ABS Census 2006
Table 20.3 Family Household Characteristics
Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD Family Characteristics Number % Number % Number % Couple families with children 99 56.25% 3,011 51.68% 67,951 42.35% Couple families without children 54 30.68% 1,988 34.12% 62,834 39.16% One parent families 20 11.36% 766 13.15% 27,493 17.14% Other families 3 1.70% 61 1.05% 2,160 1.35% Source: ABS Census 2006
Table 20.4 lists population growth for Singleton, the Hunter and NSW.
Table 20.4 Population Growth 1996 – 2006
Singleton LGA Hunter SD NSW Year 1996 2001 2006 1996 2001 2006 1996 2001 2006 Total 20,113 20,384 22,071 539,773 562,831 585,862 6,038,696 6,371,745 6,585,732 Population Growth from 1996 9.7% 8.5% 9.1% to 2006 Source: ABS Census 2006
Industry by employment levels, as shown in Table 20.5, indicates that 8.8% of people over 15 years in the Local Community are employed in the mining industry. This proportion is significantly smaller than the Singleton LGA where 19.6% of people are employed in the mining industry. However both proportions contrast markedly with the Hunter SD as a whole where employment in mining represents only 2.8% of total employment. These figures clearly show the importance of the coal mining industry as an employer for the Local Community and Singleton LGA. The long term importance of coal mining to the area is supported by Singleton Shire Council which reports that 65% of the coal reserves that exist in the Upper Hunter are located within the Singleton LGA.
1
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Table 20.5 Main Responses for Industry of Employment
Census Collection District (the Industry of Employment Local Community) Total 1130804 1130811 Not applicable (not employed) 107 223 330 Mining 12 48 60 Retail Trade 5 43 48 Property and Business Services 3 28 31 Manufacturing 3 25 28 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 18 7 25 Health and Community Services 8 17 25 Construction 7 17 24 Education 4 18 22 Electricity, Gas and Water Supply 3 14 17 Wholesale Trade 3 11 14 Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants 5 6 11 Not stated 9 0 9 Transport and Storage 4 5 9 Personal and Other Services 3 3 6 Non-Classifiable Economic Units 3 3 6 Cultural and Recreational Services 0 4 4 Communication Services 0 3 3 Finance and Insurance 0 3 3 Government Administration and Defence 0 3 3 Total 197 481 678
Data Source: 2006 Census of Population and Housing
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Table 20.6 shows a similar trend to that exhibited in Table 20.5. The mining industry has remained the major industry of employment for Singleton LGA between 1996 and 2006, employing 18.8% of the workforce in 1996, before falling to 15.6% in 2001, and rising again to 19.6% in 2006. This is well above the Hunter SD level of 3.5% and NSW of 0.7% in 2006. Major industries of employment for the Hunter SD are more diverse including manufacturing, the retail trade, and health care and social assistance, with levels ranging from 10.3 to 12.5% between 1996 and 2006.
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Table 20.6 Industry of Employment 1996 - 2006
Industry Singleton LGA Hunter SD NSW 1996 2001 2006 1996 2001 2006 1996 2001 2006 Agriculture, forestry & fishing 7.9% 6.8% 5.0% 3.1% 2.9% 2.4% 3.6% 3.4% 2.7% Mining 18.8% 15.6% 19.6% 4.4% 3.1% 3.5% 0.8% 0.5% 0.7% Manufacturing 4.5% 6.9% 7.2% 12.5% 11.3% 10.5% 11.5% 11.0% 9.6% Electricity, gas, water & waste services 3.3% 2.9% 3.0% 1.7% 1.6% 1.6% 1.0% 1.0% 1.0% Construction 6.5% 6.5% 6.0% 6.7% 7.3% 8.1% 6.2% 6.7% 7.3% Wholesale trade 4.7% 5.4% 2.7% 4.8% 4.4% 3.3% 5.9% 5.3% 4.7% Retail trade 8.0% 8.9% 9.6% 11.2% 12.3% 12.1% 10.1% 10.8% 11.1% Accommodation & food services 5.6% 6.5% 6.2% 7.1% 7.6% 7.3% 6.5% 6.7% 6.6% Transport, postal & warehousing 3.4% 3.6% 3.2% 4.5% 4.3% 4.2% 5.1% 4.9% 5.0% Information media & telecommunications 0.7% 0.8% 0.5% 1.5% 1.3% 1.1% 2.9% 3.0% 2.4% Financial & insurance services 1.6% 1.6% 1.3% 2.8% 2.5% 2.8% 4.8% 4.8% 5.0% Rental, hiring & real estate services 1.5% 1.2% 1.7% 1.6% 1.7% 1.7% 1.6% 1.8% 1.7% Professional, scientific & technical 3.4% 3.7% 4.1% 4.3% 4.5% 5.1% 6.6% 7.4% 7.3% services Administrative & support services 1.9% 2.8% 2.8% 2.5% 3.0% 2.7% 2.9% 3.4% 3.1% Public administration & safety 10.8% 8.2% 7.6% 5.8% 5.8% 6.3% 5.6% 5.2% 6.0% Education & training 4.4% 4.9% 5.1% 7.2% 7.6% 7.6% 7.0% 7.1% 7.6% Health care & social assistance 6.0% 5.8% 5.9% 10.3% 11.0% 12.1% 9.2% 9.3% 10.5% Arts & recreation services 0.4% 0.7% 0.4% 0.9% 1.0% 1.2% 1.3% 1.3% 1.4% Other services 4.0% 4.9% 5.5% 4.4% 4.5% 4.1% 4.4% 4.1% 3.8% Inadequately described/Not stated 2.7% 2.2% 2.6% 2.8% 2.2% 2.3% 3.1% 2.4% 2.6% Total (%) 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
Data Source: 2006 Census of Population and Housing
Analysis of Labour Force Status data of the Local Community, Singleton LGA and Hunter SD (Table 20.7 reveals that a higher proportion of the workforce in Singleton LGA (31%) were in full-time employment when compared with Hunter SD (26%), and that a similar proportion of the workforce was in part time employment in Singleton LGA (13%) and Hunter SD (14%) in 2006. Unemployment in 2006 was also comparable for Singleton LGA (2%) and Hunter SD (3%).
In the Local Community, there were 347 people participating in employment (2006). A total of 13 people (2%) reported that they were looking for work which was comparable with the proportion of people looking for work in the Singleton LGA (2%), and only marginally less than the total in the Hunter SD (3%).
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Table 20.7 Labour Force Status
Local Singleton Labour Force Status Community LGA Hunter SD Employed, worked full-time 217 6809 150620 Employed, worked part-time 111 2851 80363 Employed, away from work 19 659 16499 Unemployed, looking for full-time work 9 278 11982 Unemployed, looking for part-time work 4 173 6335 Not in the labour force 121 4955 182424 Not stated 18 852 24459 Not applicable 179 5360 116558 Total 678 21937 589240
Data Source: 2006 Census of Population and Housing
Table 20.8 shows that weekly household incomes within the Local Community tended to be higher than those in the Singleton LGA and Hunter SD. Approximately 60% of households in the Local Community (compared with around 40% in the Hunter SD) had an income of more than $1000 per week. As shown in Table 20.8 and Figure 20.2, almost double the proportion of households earning $1,700 or more per week were located in the Local Community and the Singleton LGA, than in the Hunter SD as a whole. Conversely a smaller proportion of households in the Local Community had incomes in the lower income brackets, with 19.6% of households in the Local Community earning below $649 per week, compared to 23.5% in the Singleton LGA and 35.4% in the Hunter SD. The higher household incomes in the Local Community and the Singleton LGA reflect the higher proportion of people employed within the mining industry and the higher average incomes for people working in that industry. Consequently, tax paid by residents in the Singleton LGA is also higher than the State average.
Table 20.8 Gross Weekly Household Income
Income Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD % of total % of total % of total Number Number Number households households households Negative/Nil income 3 1.4% 57 0.8% 1,783 0.8% $1-$149 0 0.0% 91 1.2% 3,063 1.4% $150-$249 7 3.3% 260 3.6% 13,312 6.1% $250-$349 9 4.2% 394 5.4% 19,197 8.7% $350-$499 5 2.3% 301 4.1% 15,070 6.9% $500-$649 18 8.4% 611 8.4% 25,397 11.5% $650-$799 3 1.4% 326 4.5% 13,679 6.2% $800-$999 11 5.1% 405 5.6% 14,764 6.7% $1,000-$1,199 23 10.7% 684 9.4% 22,276 10.1% $1,200-$1,399 8 3.7% 323 4.4% 11,355 5.2% $1,400-$1,699 17 7.9% 622 8.5% 15,692 7.1% $1,700-$1,999 23 10.7% 662 9.1% 12,613 5.7% $2,000-$2,499 16 7.4% 522 7.2% 11,798 5.4% $2,500 -$2,999 23 10.7% 654 9.0% 9,075 4.1% $3,000 or more 19 8.8% 534 7.3% 6,956 3.2% Partial/Not Stated 30 14.0% 841 11.5% 23,860 10.9% Total 215 100.0% 7,287 100.0% 219,890 100.0%
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Figure 20.2 Graphical Weekly Household Income
14.0%
12.0%
10.0%
8.0%
6.0%
4.0%
2.0%
0.0%
9 9 9 9 99 99 ome 14 249 499 ,9 c -$ -$34 -$ -$64 -$7 -$99 1,399 in $ il 50 00 00 $1-$ 650 /N $150 $2 $350 $5 $ $8 00-$1,199 00- 00-$1,699 00-$1,999 e ,0 ,4 ,7 tiv $1 $1,2 $1 $1 $2,000-$2,499$2,500 -$2 $3,000 or more ga e N Local Community Singleton LGA Hunter SD
20.2.4 Integra Underground Operation Employment and Economic Contribution
The Integra Underground is a significant employer within the Singleton LGA and at currently employs 199, full time equivalent (FTE) wage earners. In addition to those personnel involved directly in the mining operations, 81 FTE contract personnel are employed in areas such as underground development, electrical and maintenance roles, coal haulage and earthmoving, information technology support and cleaning. Total employment at the mine then is currently 280 FTE, and this figure is expected to remain relatively constant for the life of the Underground Project.
In addition to the full time employees and contractors, additional personnel are also employed on a casual basis or by contractors for specific tasks, such as longwall moves and strata support.
Those people employed directly and indirectly spend a proportion of their incomes in the Local and Singleton Communities on goods and services, including housing, food, clothes, leisure activities, transport and utilities. This spending supports employment in other areas and is referred to as the “income” or “induced” employment effect.
Table 20.9 shows that the majority of ICO employees (not including contractors) live in the Singleton, Cessnock, Maitland and Newcastle Districts, with a minor proportion travelling from Gunnedah and Muswellbrook Districts.
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Table 20.9 Integra Underground Employee Demographics, 2008
Place of Permanent Residence 31.12.08 Number Singleton District 49 24.62% Cessnock District 54 27.14% Maitland District 36 18.09% Gunnedah District 4 2.01% Muswellbrook District 3 1.51% Newcastle District 38 19.10% Other (within NSW) 15 7.54% TOTAL 199 100 Source: ICO 2008
20.3 ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
20.3.1 Methodology
The economic impact assessment considers the impact of the underground mining operations on the regional and National economies.
The indicators used to assess the economic impacts are:
net present value;
value added, ie, contribution to the gross domestic product;
payments to suppliers;
employment numbers and household income levels; and
government revenues.
The assessment compares the “without project” situation with the “with project” situation. As the Project extends existing mining activities, the “without project” situation is defined as the case were the mining activities are not extended, which would lead to job losses and to Project related investments not being realised. The “with project” situation assumes that all investments and operations will go ahead as currently planned over the lifespan of the Project (22 years from 2009 till 2031).
The economic impact assessment uses the financial analysis data provided by ICO in addition to the socio-economic data discussed in Section 20.2. The assessment also makes use of information from the economic impact assessment for the ICO Open Cut Project (URS, 2009) as both projects are carried out in the same area, and hence for some topics the same data and analysis applies.
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The direct, indirect and total economic impacts are addressed in the following sections. The direct impacts arise from Project spending on salaries for employees, and equipment and services purchase from suppliers. The indirect and total economic impacts include induced effects on the economy that are generated by re-spending the initial dollars. These induced effects are estimated using Keynesian multipliers. The analysis does not take into account any valuation of positive or negative externalities.
20.3.2 Direct Economic Impacts
Outline
The revenues from the Project are mainly derived from the sale of coal, which will be exported. The Project expenditures consist of capital expenditures (purchase of equipment) and operational expenditures (wages, equipment hire, power, engineering services, etc.). Over the lifespan of the Project, 92% of the total expenditures are operating expenditures (including 9% royalties) while the remainder are capital expenditures. About 28% of the operating expenditures are salaries and wages. No land purchases are proposed for the extension of the underground operations. However, ICO will be prepared to negotiate acquisition with significantly affected landowners. The Project’s revenues are subject to 30% corporate taxes. The revenues and expenditures are spread over a Project lifespan of 22 years.
Net Present Value
The Net Present Value (NPV) of the planned underground mining operations is $655 million. NPV is calculated by deducting the streams of capital and operational expenditures (excluding taxes and royalties) from the revenue stream and using a discount rate of 7% as per the direction of the NSW Treasury (2007). The Internal Rate of Return (IRR), which gives the discount rate that would lead to an NPV of $0), is 29%. As the Project will lead to payments from abroad and no major public or other expenditure is expected, the Project is viable from a National and private perspective.
Value Added
The value added can be used as an indicator of what the Project contributes to the Gross Domestic Product. Value added can be defined as the cost of a product minus the costs of all materials purchased to make the product. In this case, the net value added can be defined as the revenues from the sale of coal minus the purchased goods and services to mine the coal and minus the depreciation of capital goods. The total (undiscounted) net value added of the Project over its lifespan is $2709 million and annually ranges from about a negative $9 million in 2009 when expenditures on goods and services exceed revenues to about $218 million yearly from 2019 to 2023.
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20.3.3 Payments to Suppliers
The payments to suppliers comprise the purchase of mining equipment and payments for goods, such as power, consumables and services, such as engineering services and equipment hire. Based on information from the financial analysis, 29% of the total capital and operational expenditures (excluding royalties) are salary and wages while the remaining 71% are goods and services purchased.
The allocation of purchased goods and services over different categories is displayed in Figure 20.3. Major categories of costs are related to cut and flit; maintenance, overhauls and longwall moves; engineering and technical services, and equipment purchase.
Figure 20.3 Allocation of expenses
Equipment Cut and Flit 12% 15%
Equipment hire Other 5% 1%
Consumerables 8% Maintenance, Overhauls, Longw all moves 14% Pow er 2%
Commission, Marketing etc Transport 5% 11%
Conveyor and Washing 7%
Insurance Engineering and Technical 2% Services Admin and Overhead 12% 3%
Safety and Environment 3%
The impact on the regional economies depends on the location of the suppliers. Table 20.10 presents the location distribution of supplier payments from the Integra underground during 2007 -2008 based on an evaluation of payments in excess of $100,000.
Table 20.10 Regional Allocation of Payments to Suppliers
Area % of total payments $ payments Lifespan (M$) Average/ year (M$) Singleton LGA 4% 93 4 Hunter SD 43% 996 45 New South Wales 77% 1,783 81 Australia 100% 2,315 105
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The data in Table 20.10 indicate that 77% of the payments are received by suppliers in New South Wales, of which 43% are located in the Hunter SD. Four percent of the total payments are received in Singleton LGA, while 23% of the suppliers are located in other parts of Australia. No payments are made to overseas suppliers, although, suppliers could source part of their goods and services abroad.
Table 20.10 also shows the (undiscounted) payments made to suppliers over the 22 year lifespan of the Project and averages per year by area based on an supplier payment distribution during 2007-2008. $1783 million of the total $2315 million received by suppliers remains in New South Wales, of which $996 million remains in Hunter SD, and $93 million remains in Singleton LGA.
20.3.4 Employment and Household Income
The underground mining operations employs 280 FTE, whose jobs would be lost if the Project did not proceed. However, as this does not take into account jobs of suppliers, the total number of jobs the Project generates is above 280 FTE.
The place of permanent residence of ICO employees was presented in Table 20.9. Of the 280 persons employed by the underground operations, approximately 252 are expected to live in Hunter SD and 69 are expected to live in Singleton LGA. The expenditure on wages has a direct impact on the regional economy. In addition, the suppliers located within the region will also spend part of what they receive within the region.
The salaries and wages paid by ICO to Integra Underground employees amount to $932 million over the life of the Project. Assuming an average personal income tax rate of 30%, the net revenues for ICO employees and contractors would therefore be $653 million or, on average, $29.7 million per year. Assuming a regional distribution similar to the place of permanent residence, the net household revenues from salaries and wages paid by ICO are $653 million for New South Wales, comprising $593 million for Integra employees in the Hunter SD, and $160 million for those in the Singleton LGA.
Based on the analysis carried out for the Open Cut Project, it is assumed that 23% of the payments to suppliers are transferred as employee compensation and 18% as a return on capital (profits) (in the analysis for the open cut operations the value added (wages and return on capital) for suppliers was estimated by allocating the inputs of ICO’s operations to the industry classifications of the Australian national input-output tables). Furthermore, it is assumed that 50% of the return on capital is transferred overseas as profit shares of foreign owners at all spatial levels. The average corporate income tax rate is 30% (OECD).
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Table 20.11 shows the resulting expected household income for Singleton LGA based on the above assumptions, Hunter SD, New South Wales and Australia. The household income derived from the proposed underground mining operations for Australia is expected to be $53.3 million per year, of which $47.8 million will be received in New South Wales, $37.1 million in Hunter SD, and $8.3 million in Singleton LGA.
Table 20.11 Regional Allocation of Household Income
Area Total salaries and Salaries, wages and Total (M$) wages paid by ICO profit paid by (after taxes, M$) suppliers (after taxes, M$) Project Average/ Project Average/ Project Average life year life year life /year Singleton LGA $160.8 $7.3 $21 $0.9 $181.8 $8.3 Hunter SD $593.9 $27.0 $223 $10.1 $816.9 $37.1 New South Wales $653.0 $29.7 $399 $18.2 $1,052.0 $47.8 Australia $653.0 $29.7 $519 $23.6 $1,172.0 $53.3
20.3.5 Government Revenues
Taxes and royalties from the planned underground mining operations will contribute significantly to the government revenues as shown in Table 20.12, which shows that total amount of taxes and royalties will amount to $1322 million over the project life or an average of $60.1 million per year.
Table 20.12 Overview of Government Revenues
Type Total Average/ year (M$) (M$) Royalties 309 14.0 Ungeared taxes paid by ICO 511 23.2 Personal Income Tax by ICO employees and contractors 280 12.7 Personal Income and other taxes by suppliers 222 10.1 Total 1,322 60.1
The proposed extension of the underground mining operations represents a continuation of existing activities and hence will not place any additional demands on government services or infrastructure. ICO would be subject to user fees for using government services and infrastructure.
20.3.6 Indirect and Total Impacts
The payments of salaries and wages, and payments to suppliers, lead to indirect and induced economic impacts when the households and suppliers in turn spend their income. Indirect economic effects are typically defined as the changes in inter-industry purchases as companies respond to the new
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demands of the directly affected suppliers, while induced effects are caused by households spending their salaries and wages.
The present analysis estimates the induced effects by using the Keynesian multiplier approach. The Keynesian multiplier indicates how much of an initial dollar is re-spent in the economy. The multiplier depends on three “leakages” as indicated in the formula below: the marginal propensity to consume (C), the marginal tax rate (T) and the marginal propensity to export (M). These parameters were estimated for the Singleton area and Hunter region in the study for the proposed Integra Open Cut Project (URS, 2009). As the same regions are considered in the present study, the parameters from that study have been adopted here. The formula used is:
1 K 1 C(1 T) M
Of every dollar received, a household will save part and spend part (marginal propensity to consume). Based on a study for Australia, a value of 0.6 is taken for C. Based on the average tax rate a value of 0.234 is taken for T. The value of M was estimated using the location quotient approach, which determines the marginal propensity to export, by comparing the regional employment by sector to the national employment by sector and weighting the location quotients of the different sectors with regional industry employment. This resulted in a value of 1.62 for Singleton and 1.77 for Hunter. Table 20.13 gives an overview of the values of the different parameters and the resulting values for the Keynesian multiplier.
Table 20.13 Computation of the Keynesian multiplier
Parameter Singleton Hunter C 0.6 0.6 T 0.234 0.234 M 1.62 1.77 K 0.46 0.43
For the Integra Underground, the direct economic impacts of ICO’s payments on salaries and wages are $37.13 million per year for the Hunter SD, of which $8.26 million per year is for the Singleton LGA. Applying the Keynesian multiplier, the induced effects of this are an additional $15.97 million and $3.8 million respectively of economic impact annually, (see Table 20.14).
Table 20.14 Total Economic Impact from ICO Salaries and Wages
Area Direct Induced Total (M$/ year) (M$/ year) (M$/ year) Singleton LGA $8.26 $3.80 $12.06 Hunter SD $37.13 $15.97 $53.10
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20.3.7 Summary
The economic impact assessment shows that the proposed extension of the Integra Underground Project has a positive impact on the economy. The Net Present Value is $655 million and the total Value Added is $2709 million. The Project will allow the continuation of 280 jobs and ICO’s expenditures on salaries, wages and payments to suppliers will positively contribute to regional economic activity. Government revenues from royalties and taxes will amount to an average of $ 60.1 million per year. As the Project represents an extension of existing operations, there will be no additional demands on government services or infrastructure.
Major services are provided from Singleton, which is 10km from the site, with local community, health and social services provided from Singleton. As a direct and indirect contributor to employment within the area, ICO also places demands on social and community facilities including health education community support and recreation services.
Planning for provision of these services is based on the population characteristics of an area and the projected growth in population. Since the population of the LGA has grown steadily throughout the past decade, service demand will similarly have increased. Singleton Council’s Social Plan 2004 – 2010 identifies the need for expansion of childcare, education and specialist health services. Integra Underground, as a major employer, is an indirect contributor to the generation of the need for these services.
Integra has been a contributor and supporter of local community programs within the area. In 2007, the Integra Underground made contributions to a number of community initiatives including:
sponsorship of Singleton Rodeo;
sponsorship of Singleton Junior Rugby;
fundraising event for “DUDE” (special education unit for children with disabilities);
sponsorship of a kart at the Endurance Karting Association racing day, with the proceeds going to the National Breast Cancer Foundation;
financial contribution to the flood relief fund;
sponsorship of CPR course for mothers;
financial contribution to little athletics;
financial contribution to Junior Cricket; and
fundraising event for Camp Quality.
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Any change in employment levels will impact on delivery of services and facilities within the Singleton LGA with flow-on impacts for the Local Community. The potential impacts of a reduction of 280 positions within the Singleton LGA should the Integra Underground cease operations would likely include:
an increase in unemployment - generating higher demands on employment support services, family support and housing services;
a decrease in population - reduction in resources allocated to recreation health and education services that are planned on the basis of population size and characteristics; and
a reduction in funds to community services and voluntary organisations – IOC funding support would no longer be available to small agencies and community organisations.
ICO is an indirect contributor to the health and quality of services available to the Local Community and the Singleton LGA in particular, as well as a direct supporter of community initiatives.
20.4 ATTITUDES IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
20.4.1 Methodology
A qualitative assessment was undertaken to gain a picture of community attitudes to the proposal. These were focused on the Local Community, as this group were most likely to be directly affected by the physical impacts of the proposal.
Sources used in the identification of the attitudes within the Local Community to the proposal included:
written comments regarding the proposal;
establishment of an 1800 comment line which was staffed through the assessment period;
face to face and telephone interviews with residents within the Local Community;
input following advertisement of the proposal in local media; and
comments received at an information session staffed by the project team.
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20.4.2 Discussion of Issues
Overall, the Singleton and Local Communities are knowledgeable about the mining operations within their area and, in general, aware of the role mining plays in the overall well-being of the Community. This is not surprising given that coal mining is the largest individual employment generator in both Singleton LGA and Local Communities. Interviews confirmed that residents were generally familiar with the nature and extent of operations within the local area and largely supportive of the industry on the basis of the employment benefits it generates.
They key areas of concern were that the direct physical impacts of the proposal on the Local Community were monitored and effectively minimised. Issues of most importance identified included:
traffic and access;
noise;
human health and air quality;
odour;
visual amenity;
land use and property values;
subsidence impacts;
local employment and economic development; and
cumulative noise, dust, traffic and health impacts.
The potential for, and magnitude of, impacts resulting from the proposal have been addressed as part of other technical reports presented within this EA. The following sections summarise community views on these issues, outline likely impacts and make additional recommendations where appropriate. Further details of the community engagement process can be found in Chapter 6.
20.4.3 Traffic and Access
Community Views
The potential for the Project to increase traffic numbers in the local are was consistently raised as a likely negative impact. Residents involved in the face to face meetings and the information session expressed concerns regarding trucks travelling to the Integra Underground and adjacent Open Cut mines. In particular, the use of the Middle Falbrook Road Bridge by large trucks
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travelling from Muswellbrook was highlighted as a current traffic problem which the proposal could potentially magnify. Use of the single lane bridge by large trucks was reportedly causing traffic delays for general traffic and creating dangerous road conditions. Some community members had the expectation that, Nobles Lane would be upgraded and a bridge constructed across Glennies Creek to provide a more direct route to the mine facilities.
Analysis
Nobles Lane is a Council administered ungravelled track crossing Glennies Creek via an informal ford. Council has no plan or intent to upgrade this access and nor is such an upgrade required to continue underground mining.
The traffic and transport assessment concludes that as the Project largely involves a continuation of current activities on site and that there will be no additional project related impact on traffic volumes. Both the inflow of traffic associated with employees commuting to the site as well as support activities are anticipated to remain relatively stable.
The assessment recommends the continuation of traffic and transport measures to minimise impacts on road users including strict adherence to RTA and Council restrictions on transport hours and load limits as well as safety and warning requirements for “oversize” loads. In addition, should Council consider it desirable, ICO would finance line marking of Stony Creek and Middle Falbrook Roads. Also proposed is the establishment of a dedicated community phone line to enable members of the public to report issues of concern including incidents of irresponsible driving associated with traffic to the site.
There will be impacts on Middle Falbrook, Glennies Creek and Stony Creek Roads resulting from subsidence. The impacts on these and other roads within the affected area will be monitored and managed as part of the overall SMPs. The SMPs will clearly detail the types of potential subsidence impact that might affect the roadways, will establish monitoring protocols, and will detail remediation and rectification measures.
Given the concerns regarding traffic and access, the relevant SMPs will include a performance measure which monitors residents’ satisfaction with access and traffic management strategies.
20.4.4 Noise
Community Views
Parts of the community view the potential for increased noise levels resulting from the Project as an issue of concern. Residents also expressed concerns about current noise levels generated from the mine site (this included noise from the various open cut mines in the vicinity as well as the Underground) as
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well as additional traffic and machinery noise resulting from the proposed expansion of the surface facilities.
Analysis
Noise from construction of infrastructure above the Hebden Pit Bottom and at the Barrett Portal is predicted to remain below the construction criteria at all privately-owned receptors.
Modelling of operational noise levels associated with the surface facilities for the Integra Underground Coal Project indicates that emissions will remain below the relevant Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC) for calm and inversion conditions for the majority of assessed receptors. One privately- owned receptor (receptor 153 – Dulwich Property) is predicted to be within the affectation zone (greater than 5 dBA above the PSNC during inversion conditions independent of whether coal transferred to the CHPP is by haul truck or conveyor.
Privately-owned (8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 50, 62, 71 – 73, 76, 80, 87, 106, 153) receptors are predicted to be within the noise management zone (up to 5 dBA above the PSNC).
The cumulative noise assessment indicates that emissions from the Integra Underground surface would only marginally increase existing cumulative noise levels at the majority of receptors.
Residents will be consulted as part of the detailed design of ventilation and borehole locations to ensure that noise impacts at these residences are mitigated as effectively as possible.
20.4.5 Air Quality
Community Views
Many residents raised issues with existing air quality, particularly with regard to dust impacts on humans, waterways and soil.
Analysis
The air quality assessment shows that the emissions from the proposed Integra Underground Project in isolation comply with the nominated DECC criteria. The cumulative noise emissions from the Integra Open Cut and North Open Cut operations as well as site sources for five other local mines, have been predicted to exceed the nominated DECC criteria at nine privately- owned residences.
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ICO have an existing air quality monitoring program to determine compliance or otherwise with criteria for its operation. Control procedures have been included as a part of the impact assessment, to minimise air quality impacts on surrounding residents.
The results of the ongoing air quality monitoring program will be communicated to residents in the Local Community.
20.4.6 Odour
Community Views
Odour associated with ventilation shafts and gas drainage was identified as a potential concern.
Analysis
Minimal odour impacts are predicted from the Project.
20.4.7 Visual Amenity
Community Views
The key issues raised relating to visual amenity included light spillage and the impact on views from residences.
A number of resident’s homes are in direct line of sight to the existing surface facilities and several reported current impacts from light spillage. In their view, this proposal would exacerbate this issue. Some residents also expressed concerns that the Project and its associated surface infrastructure would affect existing views. A number of resident were concerned that ventilation shafts may be located close to their homes, thereby affecting visual amenity.
Analysis
The placement of ventilation shafts and infrastructure associated with gas drainage will depend on a range of operational factors within the Hebden and Barrett seams. Boreholes will be developed and rehabilitated progressively during the life of the mine. Mining will be underground and long term additional visual impacts from the proposal would result only from the installation of gas drainage boreholes and vent shaft. To date, each borehole has typically been in place for approximately 12 to 18 months, after which, the affected footprint has been rehabilitated.
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To minimise visual impacts, ICO will determine infrastructure locations with due consideration of views, and where appropriate and feasible position to minimise impact.
20.4.8 Land Use and Property Values
Community Views
The potential impact of the proposal on overall property values was a major concern for some residents in the Local Community. Those people interviewed who live adjacent to the mine, or in the subsidence impact zone were also concerned about the possibility for structural damage to their properties. More generally there was a concern that the location of surface infrastructure on properties would result in an overall reduction in property values.
Analysis
The Project is a continuation of current operations and, as such, is not expected to cause a change in property values. The MSB will rectify damage to houses and improvements.
20.4.9 Subsidence
Community Views
Key issues of concern raised by many residents were the impacts of subsidence on:
watercourses, in particular Glennies Creek;
structural integrity of houses and improvement; and
Glennies Creek Community Hall.
Residents in the Local Community have a substantial dependence on Glennies Creek and its adjacent land for agriculture purposes. Residents who attended the information session and face to face meetings expressed concerns over the potential impacts of subsidence on the Creek, combined with the potential for land to become waterlogged due to the cumulative subsidence arising from mining of the Middle Liddell and Hebden seams.
Analysis
Subsidence has the potential to directly impact on the daily life of local residents in a range of ways such as disruption to roads and utilities, which
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may affect their access to services. Impacts on residences and farm buildings, fences, dams and tracks may affect how they manage their property and, potentially, their livelihoods. Specifics of subsidence impacts are detailed in Chapters 8 and 9. A social impact monitoring strategy will developed that quantifies the impacts on the Local Community and the effectiveness of strategies implemented in minimising these impact.
20.4.10 Local Employment and Economic Development
Community Views
The Singleton and Local Communities are knowledgeable about the mining operations in the area and, generally, are aware of the role mining plays in the economic well-being of the Community.
Analysis
The economic impact assessment shows that the proposed Integra Underground Project has a positive impact on the economy with a Net Present Value of $655 million and a total Value Added of $2,709 million. The Project would also provide continued employment for 280 people for the next 22 years.
The Projects’ 280 jobs and ICO’s expenditures on salaries, wages and payments to suppliers will positively contribute to regional economic activity. Government revenues from royalties and taxes will amount to an average of $60.1 million per year. As the Project represents an extension of existing operations, there will be no additional demands on government services or infrastructure.
The Integra Underground operation is a significant local employer and provider of economic support. Consequently, if the mine was to cease operation there would be a significant social and economic impact on the Local and wider Communities.
20.4.11 Cumulative Impacts
Community Views
As the Local Community is affected by a number of mining operations in the area, cumulative impacts were a concern raised during the consultation process. Issues highlighted included the potential for the proposal to impinge on “acceptable” limits across a range of areas including air quality, noise and vibrations, ecological impacts, surface water systems and health.
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Analysis
A number of the specialist reports have highlighted the potential for the cumulative impacts arising from the Integra Open Cut and the Underground Projects as well as other mines in the local area. The noise and air quality assessments, in particular, conclude that the cumulative impacts on some private residences may exceed accepted levels. Both assessments recommend implementation of monitoring and management systems to mitigate these impacts and the communication of monitoring results to members of the Local Community.
20.5 CONCLUSIONS
A number of perceived and actual negative social and economic impacts will occur as a result of the proposed continuation of mining, and will be managed by a range of prevention, mitigation and rectification processes.
However, the overall economic impacts on the region are positive and significant and include:
the generation of economic benefits at regional, State and National levels;
significant contributions to direct and indirect employment within the Singleton LGA; and
positive flow-on effects in terms of access to facilities and services in the Singleton LGA.
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21 STATEMENT OF COMMITMENTS
Table 21.1 lists the commitments that ICO already adopts to manage the environmental issues related to its underground mining operations, or would adopt for the additional works associated with the planned mining in the Hebden, Barrett and Middle Liddell Seams. These commitments outline Integra's proposed environmental management, mitigation and monitoring measures.
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E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Table 21.1 Draft Statement of Commitments
Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS R ESOURCES ESOURCES Compliance with all conditional requirements in all The development will be carried out as outlined in the following: Continuous and as required. approvals, licences and leases. this Environmental Assessment Report (EA); M Project Approval; ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Environment Protection Licence; Subsidence Management Plans (SMPs); Mining Lease(s); and
A USTRALIA any other approvals, licences or leases.
All operations conducted in accordance with all Undertake all activities in accordance with the accepted Mining Operations Continuous and as required.
relevant documentation. Plan; environmental procedures; safety management plan and/or site- 273 specific documentation in force at that time. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION That effective communication/consultation is Preparation of a community newsletter following Project Approval. Within three months from the undertaken throughout the life of the Project. date of Project Approval. Biannual meetings of the Community Consultative Committee. Continuous and as required.
Ongoing communication with the management of Xstrata and provision of Continuous and as required. subsidence monitoring data. Conduct a more detailed assessment of the potential impacts of subsidence Prior to longwall mining under
0061887 on items of Xstrata infrastructure. areas containing Xstrata owned infrastructure.
EA/FINAL/9 SUBSIDENCE Potential adverse impacts from subsidence are managed, monitored and remediated where necessary.
J ULY Subsidence Management Plan applications will be submitted to the DPI Prior to the commencement of
2009 Subsidence management detailing strategies to manage subsidence impacts, inclusive of measures proposed longwall mining in the
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing referenced in this EA. affected area. In addition to the overarching SMPs, specific management plans will be Prior to the commencement of developed which will address potential subsidence impacts on specific items proposed longwall mining in the R
ESOURCES ESOURCES or areas of sensitivity, roads and associated infrastructure, transmission affected area. lines, communication infrastructure, Bettys Creek, farm fences, farm buildings and farm dams. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Subsidence monitoring involving cross lines, longitudinal lines and three Prior to, during and after mining dimensional surveying will be undertaken to confirm the levels of in the Barrett and Hebden Seams. subsidence occurring and enable refinements to subsidence predictions. A Temporary remediation works will progress during mining, with permanent Continuous and as required. USTRALIA remediation works completed following full subsidence impacts in an area. Management of subsidence impacts on surface The new Forest Road Subsidence Management Plan to be built upon the Prior to the commencement of
infrastructure. existing management plan to reflect the expected subsidence and associated proposed longwall mining in the
274 impacts. affected area. As part of Hebden SMP development, a management plan for Glennies Prior to the commencement of Creek Road and associated infrastructure will be prepared. proposed longwall mining in the affected area. As part of Barrett SMP development, a management plan for Middle Prior to the commencement of Falbrook Road and associated infrastructure will be prepared. proposed longwall mining in the affected area. Possum Skin Dam will be decommissioned. Prior to the commencement of longwall mining which would potentially affect the stability or 0061887 integrity of the dam wall.
EA/FINAL/9 The current Electricity Transmission Lines Subsidence Management Plan Prior to the commencement of will be revised for inclusion in the new SMPs and will detail management of proposed longwall mining in the subsidence effects on powerlines. affected area.
J The existing management plan for the Forest Road communications/Telstra Prior to the commencement of ULY line will be reviewed and updated in consultation with Telstra to reflect proposed longwall mining in the 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing changes resulting from this proposal. affected area. Stakeholder consultation and monitoring of the existing communication As required. cable adjacent to the Mt Owen Rail Spur will be carried out to ensure the R
ESOURCES ESOURCES cable remains serviceable during subsidence. Should XMO’s mine plan change, any potential subsidence effects on its Prior to the commencement of tailings dams or highwalls will be addressed in the relevant SMPs at that proposed longwall mining in the M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT time. affected area. Undertake a more detailed assessment of potential impacts on the Following finalisation of the Ravensworth East / XMO and Glendell Open Cuts . surface mine layout and prior to
A mining within these areas. USTRALIA ICO will provide stakeholders such as Singleton Shire Council and Monthly. landowners who border roads with a monthly update of the location of the
longwall face relative to the road, and the estimated progress of the longwall
275 during the following month. Signs will be erected by ICO at points on the road at the edge of the Prior to the commencement of longwalls subsidence impact zone. proposed longwall mining in the affected area. Approval will be sought from DPI and ARTC prior to any mining within the Prior to mining within the Main Northern Railway protection zone. protection zone. A subsidence management plan will be devised in consultation with the Prior to the commencement of MSB and the owners of houses above Barrett Seam Longwall 7. proposed longwall mining in the affected area. 0061887 Surveys will be conducted prior to, during and after mining, to confirm the Prior to the commencement of levels of subsidence movements and impacts, and identify if triggers for proposed longwall mining in the
EA/FINAL/9 implementation of management measures have been reached. affected area. Ensure minimal subsidence impacts on natural features.
J The Hebden SMPs to be developed will incorporate and build upon the Prior to the commencement of ULY existing Surface Drainage Management Plan. proposed longwall mining in the 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing affected area. A Bettys Creek Diversion Management Plan will be prepared as part of the Prior to the commencement of Hebden SMPs. proposed longwall mining in the R
ESOURCES ESOURCES affected area. Ensure minimal subsidence impacts on farm infrastructure. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT The Hebden SMPs and Barrett SMPs to be developed will incorporate and Prior to the commencement of build upon the existing Farm Fences, Farm Buildings and Farm Dams proposed longwall mining in the Subsidence Management Plans, as appropriate. affected area.
A USTRALIA In consultation with the relevant landowner, ICO will remediate any dam As required. that is damaged by subsidence (or has its storage capacity reduced by more
than 10 percent) to a condition similar to that prior to subsidence.
276 ECOLOGY Operations are managed such that adverse impacts to ICO will implement the following flora and fauna management procedures. Continuous, as required. native flora and fauna are prevented, minimised Revegetate the planned Bettys Creek diversion channel and adjacent areas; and/or offset. Undertake surveys along the creek diversion and revegetated areas to record any significant loss of planted seedlings and monitor the use of revegetated areas by native fauna. Revegetation design, weed management, exclusion of cattle and ongoing monitoring in the area of the Bettys Creek diversion will be coordinated in consultation with Glendell. The abandoned Bettys Creek channel will be managed (ie weed control and 0061887 exclusion of cattle) in conjunction with the ongoing management and
EA/FINAL/9 monitoring of the proposed diversion. Based on the ephemeral nature of the existing channel, consideration will be given to blocking off the abandoned channel at the downstream end to
J act as a billabong to retain any surface flows. ULY Undertake pre-clearance inspections of borehole sites. Where possible, the 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing inspections will be undertaken during the summer flowering period to optimise detection of Bothriochloa biloba and to avoid impacting directly on any individual plants. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES HERITAGE Operations are managed such that adverse impacts to Artefact scatters (sites 37-3-0597, 37-3-0595 and 37-3-0027) that will be Prior to the diversion of Bettys significant Aboriginal and Historical heritage items are destroyed by the proposed Bettys Creek diversion will be salvaged and Creek. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT avoided, minimised and/or offset. involve the following. During clearing works in the areas where surface earthworks will occur, a qualified archaeologist will undertake field work with assistance from the
A Aboriginal community. USTRALIA Artefacts will be recorded individually and, once any site is salvaged, all materials and list of details collected for each artefact will be provided to
the Local Aboriginal Land Council.
277 Monitoring of excavation works along the banks of Bettys Creek will be During excavations works undertaken by a representative of the Aboriginal community. undertaken for the diversion of Bettys Creek. The area to be impacted by the realignment of Main Creek will be re- Prior to the diversion of Main surveyed with the assistance of the local Aboriginal community and any Creek. sites fully recorded and logged prior to the confirmation of the channels’ locations and designs. Should the additional survey works in the area to be impacted by the Prior to the diversion of Main realignment of Main Creek highlight any areas of high cultural or scientific Creek. significance, the alignment of the proposed works will be altered and / or 0061887 subsurface investigations will be undertaken in consultation with DECC and
EA/FINAL/9 DoP. Sites 37-3-0682, 37-3-0683 and any additional sites recorded during the Prior to the diversion of Main survey will be salvaged prior to construction commencing and all activities Creek
J requiring soil removal associated with the realignment of Main Creek will be ULY monitored by representatives of the Aboriginal community. The salvage 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing will: be undertaken by a qualified archaeologist during clearing works in the areas where surface earthworks will occur with assistance from the R
ESOURCES ESOURCES Aboriginal community; and include recording of individual artefacts. Once any site is salvaged, all materials and list of details collected for each artefact will be provided to M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT the Local Aboriginal Land Council. Monitoring of excavation works along the banks of Main Creek will be During excavations works undertaken by a representative of the Aboriginal community. undertaken for the diversion of
A Main Creek. USTRALIA Infrastructure will be sited to avoid impacts to known heritage sites. Should Continuous, as required. impacts be unavoidable, DECC and the local Aboriginal community
representatives will be consulted. 278 The Aboriginal community will be given the opportunity to collect any Prior to ground disturbing works surface artefacts from the planned surface (remediation) activities. in an area.
In consultation with the local Aboriginal community, the existing Aboriginal Prior to the commencement of Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ACHMP) will be revised and built ground disturbing works. upon to detail management of project induced effects.
Ensure minimal subsidence impacts on archaeology. DECC and the Local Aboriginal Community Representatives will be Prior to any remediation that may consulted should there be impacts to potential Aboriginal deposits as a result be required. of remediation works along creeks and works to rehabilitate cracks. 0061887 A qualified archaeologist will assess the potential impact of the planned Prior to any subsidence
EA/FINAL/9 works. remediation works. Should subsidence levels be greater than predicted, archaeological sub - As required. surface testing may be undertaken in affected areas with the involvement of
J the Aboriginal stakeholders and DECC. ULY 2009 The Hebden SMPs to be developed will incorporate and build upon the Prior to the commencement of
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing existing Archaeology Subsidence Management Plan. proposed longwall mining in the affected area. SURFACE WATER R
ESOURCES ESOURCES Operations are managed such that adverse impacts to ICO will maintain the existing surface water monitoring program, and Continuous, as required. surface water are prevented, minimised and/or offset. undertake additional monitoring including collection of grab samples during or immediately after surface runoff events along ephemeral watercourses; M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT monthly water quality sampling of major water major storages on the site; collection of data on water quantity and at least weekly collection of underground mine dewatering and raw water supply volume data. A ICO will maintain a photographic record of the creeks and dam walls to Continuous, as required. USTRALIA determine historical (baseline) rates of erosion. As part of the erosion and flood studies, ICO will assess whether rapid Continuous, as required.
changes in channel or floodplain form occur in the aftermath of runoff
279 events. Monitoring results will be reported in the AEMR and distributed to the Annually. relevant Government agencies, CCC members and other relevant stakeholders. GROUNDWATER Operations are managed such that adverse impacts to The current groundwater monitoring program will continue with ongoing Continuous, as required. local and regional groundwater resources are review and possible modification of the program as further data is obtained prevented, minimised and/or offset. and interpreted. Annual reports documenting and interpreting the collected data will be prepared. Groundwater samples will be collected annually from selected piezometers Annually, as required. 0061887 and analysed at a NATA registered laboratory for major ions and selected
EA/FINAL/9 metals. The groundwater program will be maintained in its current form, with a review of the program after interpretation of the first 12 months’ data. A private well monitoring program will be initiated to determine its pre 12 months prior to extraction of
J mining yield if requested by a private bore owner. the Barrett Seam (subject to the ULY timing of any request). 2009
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing Performance indicators will be identified and a statistical assessment will be Prior to longwall mining in the undertaken to detect when, or if, a significant change has occurred in the Hebden Seam. groundwater system and to benchmark the natural variation in groundwater R
ESOURCES ESOURCES quality and standing water levels. Contingency procedures will be developed. Activation of contingency As required. procedures will be linked to the assessment of monitoring results. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Following the completion of extraction of each longwall panel, a report will Following the completion of be prepared that summarises relevant monitoring data. Relevant monitoring extraction of each longwall panel and management activities for each year will also be reported in the AEMR. and in the AEMR.
A AIR QUALITY USTRALIA Operations are managed to minimise potential adverse Implement the following air quality control procedures. Continuous, as required. impacts to the environment, residences and the Coal handling areas, stockpiles, roads and trafficked areas will be community. maintained in a moist condition using water carts and / or water sprays to
280 minimise wind-blown and traffic-generated dust. Water sprays will be used at the longwall and development face to control particulates. All haul roads will have edges clearly defined with marker posts or equivalent to control their locations, especially when crossing large overburden emplacement areas. Obsolete roads will be ripped and re-vegetated; Development of minor roads will be limited and the locations of these will be clearly defined.
0061887 Minor roads used regularly for access etc will be watered/treated to control dust.
EA/FINAL/9 Due to OHS regulations regarding underground air quality, dust generated underground will be minimised. Currently this includes the application of water and/or use of dust suppressants.
J ULY ICO will continue air monitoring in accordance with the Integra Continuous.
2009 Underground EMS Procedure 002-2, Air Quality Monitoring Program,
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing
including monitoring weather conditions, TSP, PM10 (using HVAS), real time
PM10 (using TEOM) and dust fallout. The results of the ongoing air quality monitoring program will be Continuous, as required. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES communicated to residents in the Local Community. GREENHOUSE GASES Manage operations such that greenhouse gas Fugitive methane emissions will be captured for energy generation where Continuous. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT emissions on the environment are minimised and possible. If not feasible, flaring will be adopted, where practicable. beneficial use of methane is maximised. Greenhouse gas emissions will be estimated and reported annually. Following commencement of
A proposed mining. USTRALIA Energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction initiatives will be Continuous, as required. implemented throughout the life of the development,including the
following. 281 The efficiency of all new and upgraded mobile and fixed equipment will be considered during procurement for fuel powered equipment. Ensuring equipment will be maintained to retain high levels of energy efficiency. The inventory of emissions developed for this environmental; assessment will be maintained. Emissions and abatement strategies will be reported annually as part of the internal environmental reporting and National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting obligations and in the AEMR.
0061887 NOISE AND VIBRATION Operations are managed to minimise potential adverse ICO will implement the following noise management procedures and Continuous, as required.
EA/FINAL/9 impacts on the environment, residences and the monitoring programs. community. Use of conveyors instead of haul roads where approved. Construction of acoustic bunds adjacent to haul roads where recommended
J
ULY by an acoustic consultant.
2009 Use of routine monitoring results to refine on-site noise mitigation
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing measures and operating procedures. Undertake noise audits at boundary positions to static sources to verify potential change in overall sound emissions. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES Undertake regular discussions with potentially affected residents to proactively identify noise related issues of concern. Undertake quarterly monitoring at identified representative receivers. M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Implement acoustic mitigation at residences where exceedances of the project specific criteria are demonstrated via the monitoring program and requested by the landowner.
A Consideration of negotiated agreements with landowners where USTRALIA exceedances of the project specific criteria are substantiated by monitoring. Informing residents that the existing community information line for Integra Underground would apply to this proposal. 282 Existing and / or additional real time noise monitoring will be utilised to manage, assess and control potential emissions from the integra Open Cut and Underground operations. A blast management protocol will be developed in conjunction with XMO to Prior to the commencement of manage potential impacts from other mine’s blasting on the underground proposed mining in the vicinity mining activities. of open cut mining operations. TRANSPORT Management of rail infrastructure. A new Mt Owen Rail Spur Management Plan will be prepared in Prior to the commencement of consultation with XMO, and will include monitoring, stakeholder proposed longwall mining in the
0061887 consultation and mitigation measures. affected area. Management of roads. Current traffic and transport management measures will continue. In Continuous.
EA/FINAL/9 addition, linemarking of Stony Creek Road and Middle Falbrook Road will be undertaken if requested by Council. WASTE
J Avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption;
ULY Wastes will continue to be managed in accordance with the Integra Continuous, as required.
2009 reuse, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery Underground Procedure PRO_0381 - Waste Management, including the
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing wherever possible and, where this is not possible, following. disposal of wastes in an environmentally responsible Reuse of mine water for dust suppression at the Integra Underground and manner. Open Cut, in the CHPP and at neighbouring mines. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES All waste oils will be pumped into on site storage tanks for subsequent transfer to a registered waste disposal company. Old batteries will be stored in a designated bin prior to collection by a M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT licensed contractor. All scrap steel will be stored in dedicated skips and sold to scrap steel merchants for recycling.
A Bulk chemical containers will be returned to suppliers for reuse as part of USTRALIA the supply agreement. Pallets will be collected by a recycling contractor. Colour-coded recycling containers will be placed in identified areas for
283 collection of cardboard and paper products and collected regularly by licensed contractors / recyclers. Sewerage waste from site offices, administration building, maintenance areas and bath houses will be treated using an aerated wastewater treatment system before being discharged to an anaerobic and aerobic dam system. The water will then be irrigated onto adjacent land. Sludge from the aerated wastewater systems will be pumped out as required by contractors and disposed of to a licensed facility. Hazardous materials will be stored in accordance with Australian
0061887 Standards. Old paints /preservatives, disused chemicals, solvents and coolants will be
EA/FINAL/9 stored in allocated areas prior to being removed by a licensed hazardous water contractor. Liquid waste from parts washers will be stored in 200L containers for
J
ULY removal by licensed waste contractors. 2009 Waste oil filters will be taken to a recycling facility by a registered waste
E NVIRONMENTAL NVIRONMENTAL Desired Outcome Existing or Proposed Actions Timing disposal contractor. Materials containing liquids will be removed by a licensed contractor for recycling or disposal at a licensed waste management facility. R
ESOURCES ESOURCES Domestic wastes and maintenance consumables will be separated and collected by waste contractors. SOCIO-ECONOMIC A social impact monitoring strategy will be developed that quantifies the Following commencement of M
ANAGEMENT ANAGEMENT Net benefits of the proposal sufficiently outweigh impacts on the local community and the effectiveness of strategies proposed longwall mining in the potential adverse impacts. implemented in minimising these impacts. affected area.
A USTRALIA
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22 PROJECT JUSTIFICATION AND CONCLUSIONS
22.1 INTRODUCTION
The following sections provide a justification for the proposal and address the biophysical and socio-economic considerations, and the principles of ecologically sustainable development.
22.2 ECOLOGICALLY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Ecologically sustainable development (ESD) embraces the multiple objectives of social wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity. The National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development is governed by the Commonwealth Government and provides broad strategic directions and a framework for Governments to direct policy and decision-making. The strategy defines ESD as, “using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained, and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased”.
The main theme behind ESD is that future generations should have a natural environment as good as, or better, than the one inherited. The aim of applying ESD to large resource developments is to ensure long term sustainable outcomes by the integration of profitable business with environmental responsibility, in partnership with the community.
In summary, the four principles of ESD are:
the precautionary principle;
social equity, including intergenerational equity;
conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity; and
improved valuation and pricing of environmental resources, including incentive mechanisms.
An analysis of these principles as they relate to the Integra Underground Project follows.
22.2.1 The Precautionary Principle
Interpretation
The precautionary principle states that if there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a
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reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation. This principle was developed in response to one of the great difficulties of interpreting scientific data: scientific method produces results based on confidence limits. Confidence limits are, in turn controlled by the scope of data acquisition, interpretation methods and general understanding of a particular phenomenon within a particular scientific discipline and have been used as a way of validating a lack of response to a potential threat of serious or irreversible environmental degradation.
In the application of this principle:
careful application should always be undertaken to avoid serious or irreversible environmental damage; and
an assessment of consequences of various options should be undertaken in formulating a proposal.
ESD requires that uncertainty and the associated risk level be considered in decision making. An assessment of project options has been undertaken, and is presented in Chapter 4 – Project Alternatives.
Justification
The environmental consequences of the proposal have been assessed as accurately as possible using appropriate specialists in relevant disciplines. Assessments were undertaken in accordance with the relevant State Government Technical and Policy Guidelines listed in the DGRs for the Project. The experience gained since full scale mining commenced at the Integra Underground more than a decade ago, as well as that gained from a long history of longwall mining in the region, means that a strong background of scientific fact and experience was available for use in this assessment.
The assessment process involved computer modelling, field validation, scientific analysis and interpretation of the individual and cumulative environmental impacts of the proposal. This process has enabled the potential impacts of the Project to be predicted with a reasonable degree of certainty.
All predictions, however, contain a degree of uncertainty which reflects the variable nature of the environment. Where there has been uncertainty in the prediction of impacts, for example in the magnitude of subsidence in multi- seam longwall operations, a conservative approach was adopted to ensure the worst case scenario was used in the assessment of impacts. Impact predictions, such as subsidence, will be refined as mining progresses and further ‘real’ data can be incorporated into modelling programs.
The proposal is consistent with the precautionary principle to the extent that all potential threats to the environment have been identified and appropriate mitigation measures have been developed to reduce such impacts. All management procedures form part of the statement of commitments as
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outlined in Chapter 21 – Statement of Commitments, and will form part of the approval conditions for this Project.
The investigations undertaken during the preparation of this environmental assessment have identified potential impacts with adequate scientific certainty to justify proceeding with the proposed development. The proposal therefore meets the objectives of the precautionary principle of ESD.
22.2.2 Social Equity and Intergenerational Equity
Interpretation
Social equity involves concepts of justice and fairness so that the basic needs of all sectors of society are met and that there is a fair distribution of costs and benefits to improve the wellbeing and welfare of the community, population or society. Social equity does not imply equality but that there should be equal access to opportunities for improved welfare, with a bias towards advantaging the less well-off sectors of society.
Intergenerational equity refers to the present generation ensuring that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment are maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations.
Justification
It is acknowledged that coal is a finite resource. However the proposal will ensure that the reserve is mined in an efficient manner and that the existing benefits afforded to the community are maintained or enhanced throughout the 25 year approval period. The proposal will provide access to approximately 57 Mt of additional ROM coal that will supply the international thermal and coking coal markets.
Social and economic benefits are expected through the continuation of local employment; the transfer of technical and commercial skills to local industry; positive multiplier effects in the region and ongoing support of the local community through ICO initiatives (see Chapter 20 – Socio-Economic Impact Assessment).
ICO will ensure that, post-mining, the landform and potential uses of the land are compatible with those of surrounding lands, provide environmental and community benefits, and have been developed in consultation with all relevant stakeholders at the time. This is in accordance with the concept of intergenerational equity.
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22.2.3 Conservation of Biological Diversity and Ecological Integrity
Interpretation
Biological diversity refers to the variety of all life forms, including plants, animals and micro-organisms, the genes they contain, and the linkages between them. Biological resources provide food, medicines, fibres and industrial products for current and future generations. They also provide for vital ecological services such as maintaining soil fertility and the supply of clean and fresh water. Maintaining biological diversity safeguards life support functions and can be considered a minimal requirement for intergenerational equity.
Justification
A comprehensive assessment of the likely impacts of the proposal on flora and fauna is detailed in Chapter 15 – Ecology and Annex K. The assessment concluded that the Project:
is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of any threatened species or endangered population such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction;
will not clear or modify or impact directly or indirectly an endangered ecological community such that the local occurrence of the community is likely to be placed at risk of extinction;
will not fragment or isolate further, areas of potential habitat such that the long term survival of a species, population or ecological community is affected; and
will not affect critical habitat directly or indirectly.
The proposal constitutes a key threatening process in that it is a longwall mining proposal that may result in alteration of habitats following subsidence. The impacts on vegetation and fauna from subsidence are identified in detail in Section 15.8.1. It is unlikely that habitat structure will be altered by tilting as it is not anticipated that tilting will affect shrubs, herbs or grasses and it is unlikely that any isolated tree fall may alter the habitat structure in the Project Area: while subsidence may result in isolated tree falls, no hollow bearing trees or fallen timber will be removed from the Project Area. Strains caused by subsidence act on plant roots much the same as high wind but will have little impact on the roots due to their inherent flexibility. Subsidence-related ponding and breakout of flows from the creek channels will be managed using a number of measures.
The proposal will also result is alterations to surface flows, in particular the diversion of a section of Bettys Creek and abandonment of approximately
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2500 m of the existing Bettys Creek channel. This may result in alterations to floristics of the Central Hunter Swamp Oak Forest in the abandoned section of Bettys Creek. A number of measures are proposed to monitor and manage this impact and these will be developed further in a Management Plan for this area which is in keeping with the Mt Owen Complex Landscape Management Plan for the Glendell Habitat Management Area.
Provided that the recommendations outlined in Section 15.12 in regards to vegetation management along the proposed diversion, abandoned channel and other areas of potential impact are adhered to, impacts are unlikely to be of a scale that would result in a significant impact to species across the Project Area.
Commitments made in this report aim to conserve, enhance and manage habitat within the Project Area such that local populations can be maintained, thereby ensuring adherence to the principles of conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity.
22.2.4 Improved Valuation and Pricing of Environmental Resources
Interpretation
The principle relates to the need to determine proper values for services provided by the natural environment, such as cultural values or the atmosphere’s ability to receive gaseous emissions. This would result in intergenerational equity, as improved valuation and pricing of resources is paramount in conserving the natural environment for future generations. This principle’s aim is that the environment be considered in the planning and costing of projects, so it is no longer considered a free resource.
Applying standard methods of valuation and pricing to environmental resources is a difficult process. This is largely due to the intangible nature of much of the natural environment. Pollution and future exploitation can be controlled under the polluter pays principle, whereby polluters who degrade the natural environment are responsible and accountable for returning it to its previous condition.
Justification
Environmental considerations have been and will continue to be integral components of the Integra Underground Project, ie from the pre-feasibility phase through to operations, decommissioning and rehabilitation.
The mine plan for this Project has been designed to maximise resource recovery whilst giving consideration to the geological and hydrogeological constraints. The plan has been designed to avoid sterilisation of a valuable resource whilst considering potential impacts to the environment. Project
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alternatives considered in the development of the mine plan and for other key project components are provided in Chapter 4 – Project Alternatives.
ICO has committed to comprehensive management and monitoring measures to negate or mitigate identified potential adverse impacts arising from the mine plan and has also committed to the further investigation of options to considerably reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of the operation. These options include:
capture of coal seam methane from the Hebden and Barrett Seams for the purposes of energy generation; and
the flaring of coal seam methane to prevent free venting to atmosphere of fugitive methane emissions not captured for energy generation.
Other examples of improved valuation and pricing of resources include the comprehensive noise, air quality, water quality and groundwater monitoring networks that are established for the Integra Coal Project (Integra Underground and Open Cut). These will be modified as required to reflect changes resulting from the proposal as detailed in the relevant sections of this document.
Management measures relating to the realignment of Bettys Creek include the salvage of artefacts, monitoring of soil removal by Aboriginal stakeholder groups, and ongoing ecological monitoring and management to promote natural regeneration. Other potential ecological impacts including the disturbance of vegetation through the installation of boreholes and ventilation infrastructure will be managed through consultation between a qualified ecologist or environmental scientist and ICO personnel so as to avoid or minimise clearance of trees, shrubs and, where possible, stands of native grasses.
The provision of social and environmental inputs at all levels of study ensures that due consideration of any impacts and their associated costs are given in the assessment of viability and the design of the Project. The proposal therefore meets the objectives of the principle of Improved Valuation and Pricing of Environmental Resources.
22.3 CONCLUSIONS
Full scale mining operations have been undertaken at the Integra Underground for over 10 years. The proposal essentially represents an extension of these existing operations and includes the progressive development and longwall extraction of coal from the Hebden and Barrett Seams; first workings within areas of the Hebden, Barrett and Middle Liddell Seams that are not amenable to mining by longwall methods; the ongoing use of the existing surface facilities at the Integra Underground; and the long-term
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use of the existing surface facilities at the Integra Open Cut including the CHPP, train loader and associated facilities.
Additionally, the Project will enable the replacement of current consents and approvals pertaining to the Integra Underground with a single Project Approval and, as such, will not only significantly streamline reporting requirements and administrative practices for both ICO and DoP, but also promote transparency to the community.
The Project Area is located within an area of intensive existing coal mining activities. The land surface within the Project Area is dominated by grazing pasture, with some small areas of crops and open forest, and land disturbed by mining and mining-related activities, including open cut pits, overburden emplacement areas, water and tailings management facilities and coal processing and transport infrastructure (rail, road and conveyor). Additional infrastructure and services associated with mining and agriculture (eg overhead powerlines, pipelines, dams and sheds), as well as the Glennies Creek Power Station, also lie within the Project Area. The Project Area also includes a number of mine-owned and privately-owned residences.
The ongoing use of this land for the proposed mining purposes is by far the highest value use of the Project Area.
The mine layout used for this assessment is based upon current mine plans. However, in the course of detailed operational planning, alternative mine plans may be implemented. Should this be the case, the nature of the impacts described in this assessment would remain relevant, albeit the area affected by these impacts may be reduced. That is, impacts from the mining operation as it is currently planned, or as may be undertaken in the future on the basis of operational experience, will lie within the area affected by this application and be of a magnitude consistent with, or less than that assessed herein. This conservative approach minimises the potential requirement for future modifications to Project Approval and ensures environmental assessments have captured potential ‘worst case’ impacts.
The mine plan has been designed to maximise resource recovery whilst giving consideration to the geological and hydrogeological constraints. For example mine planning has ensured that Glennies Creek and its associated alluvium lie outside the subsidence footprint from proposed mining, ie they do not overlie areas of Hebden and Barrett Seam longwall mining, or areas of resulting mine subsidence. Any future mine plan amendments will similarly ensure that neither Glennies Creek nor its associated alluvium will be impacted by mining induced subsidence.
This EA has been prepared to meet the requirements provided by the Director-General of the Department of Planning, issues raised by the relevant Government authorities, non-government organisations and the community. The assessment has focussed on issues with the greater potential to impact the environment as identified by the aforementioned stakeholders and in
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accordance with the environmental risk assessment undertaken for the Project.
Identification of high risk features was a key preliminary step in the assessment process. Assessments and management measures presented throughout this report have, where appropriate, been tailored according to the level of risk.
The principal risks associated with the proposal are an indirect consequence of subsidence from longwall mining. Higher level risks also include potential impacts to surface and groundwater. Assessments of noise and vibration, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, ecology, heritage, traffic and transport, waste and socio-economic impacts were undertaken. An overview of key assessment outcomes is provided in Table 21.1.
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Table 22.1 – Key Environmental Assessment Outcomes
Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
Subsidence Assessment of subsidence over the Barrett Seam mining area indicates that maximum subsidence of 2 m will occur over the centre of each longwall panel.
Predicted subsidence over the Hebden Seam ranges from 1.6 m (the maximum predicted subsidence where the Hebden Seam is not overlain by Middle Liddell mine workings) to 4 m (the maximum subsidence where the Hebden Seam is overlain by Middle Liddell longwall panels).
There is currently limited experience with mining of multiple coal seams in the Hunter Valley and consequently, data on subsidence behaviour for multi-seam operations is limited. Maximum subsidence in the areas of multi-seam longwall operations has therefore been conservatively assessed. Predictions will be refined once monitoring results become available from other Hunter Valley mines where multi-seam extraction has been undertaken.
Mining activities within the proposed first workings mining areas adjacent to the longwall panels will be designed to limit subsidence to low levels so that surface subsidence impacts will be imperceptible in these areas.
Comprehensive SMPs will be prepared prior to each stage of mining in consultation with relevant stakeholders. SMPs will include detailed strategies to manage subsidence impacts, inclusive of measures referenced in this EA.
Infrastructure There are a number of residences within the Project Area, two of which (receptors 80 and and Utilities 83) are likely to be impacted by mining Longwall 1 in the Hebden Seam and three of which (receptors 45, 46, 47) are likely to be impacted by subsidence from mining Longwall 7 in the Barrett Seam. Of these residences, 47 and 80 are privately-owned.
Surveys will be conducted prior to, during and after mining, to confirm the levels of subsidence movements and corresponding impacts and identify triggers for implementation of management measures. Monitoring requirements will be detailed in the relevant SMPs and the specific management plans prepared for individual aspects.
Specific monitoring will be undertaken at Glennies Creek Road (Falbrook Road), Middle Falbrook Road, Stony Creek Road and Forest Road; Glennies Creek Community Hall; power poles; agricultural infrastructure; the barrier to the Northern Rail Line; Mt Owen Rail Line and associated infrastructure; the Bettys Creek diversion channel over the Eastern Rail Pit at Mt Owen; and residences with the potential to be adversely impacted.
Only first workings are proposed within the Main Northern Railway Line protection zone and therefore no perceptible subsidence impacts are predicted.
Surface Water Surface water impacts arising from the proposed mining will be a consequence of differential settlement caused by mine subsidence on drainage characteristics in the overlying creek systems. Impacts will be limited to Bettys and Main Creek and their local drainage networks.
The principal impacts of mine subsidence on Bettys and Main Creek include:
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Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
changes in channel bed slope, leading to increased erosion potential, ponding of water and breakout of flow from the creek channel in some locations;
changes to over-bank flows in some locations, resulting in an increase in the northern floodplain of Main Creek, but decrease on the southern floodplain. The reduction in flows on the southern floodplain decrease the flood risk of the two houses (80 and 83) located between Main Creek and Glennies Creek Road; and
in the lower reach of Bettys Creek, the differential settlement will create a negative slope on the Bettys Creek channel and cause water to pond. The ponded water will break out of the Bettys Creek channel and flow south, abandoning a section of the existing Bettys Creek channel.
Measures proposed to manage impacts on the creeks include construction of a 1.4 km diversion of Bettys Creek; installation of drop structures in Bettys and Main Creeks to reduce channel bed slope to existing grades; excavation and / or straightening and diversion of creek sections to allow floodwater and ponded water to be drained and to manage ponding water outbreaks, and excavation of a number of low flow channels in Main Creek.
Using a similar operational strategy to that currently employed, the integrated mine water management system can be operated to achieve no spills to the broader environment based on historical climatic conditions. The water management strategy incorporates risk management measures to ensure that in the event of a spill from the site, the risk of any adverse impacts on the quantity, quality and long-term integrity of off site surface water resources are extremely small. In the event of spill, spill response procedures will be enacted, which include water sampling and reporting in accordance with the site’s EPL.
The existing surface water management and monitoring strategy will be maintained and extended as appropriate This existing strategy:
addresses potential impacts on farm dams as a consequence of mining in the Middle Liddell Seam; and
incorporates a surface water monitoring program.
Additions to the existing surface water monitoring program will include:
grab samples during or immediately after surface runoff events;
monthly water quality sampling of major water storages on the site;
regular collection of data on water quantity and pumping volumes between storages;
regular collection of underground mine dewatering and raw water supply volume data for the underground mine.
A monitoring program will be implemented to assess the direct and indirect physical consequences of subsidence on surface water following mining of the Barrett and Hebden Seams.
Groundwater One registered well within the Project Area is currently being used (GW67291, refer to Figure 11.1). A maximum drawdown of less than 0.5 m is predicted at this well.
The Main and Bettys Creek systems are regionally small systems, with no beneficial users or groundwater dependent ecosystems. Geoterra (2009) suggests that although there may be some minor loss of stream flow in these creeks due to subsidence cracking, the projected minor loss of stream flow would be difficult to detect from the other variables affecting stream flow. It is therefore not anticipated that stream flow in Glennies, Bettys or Main
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Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
Creeks will be observably reduced.
Modelling predicts that less than 1m of drawdown is anticipated within the connected alluvium of Glennies Creek, however this will not occur until after 2024.
Extensional crack formation may develop in the surficial layer up to 20m beneath the alluvial / colluvial layer over the proposed longwall workings, and could reduce groundwater levels within the shallow weathered overburden by up to 5m in Main Creek and up to 1m in Bettys Creek. No subsidence cracking is anticipated over the first workings under the alluvium of Glennies Creek.
Up to 7m of indirect drawdown is modelled in the disconnected, distal very low permeability, clay dominated alluvial sediments which are approximately 760m to the south / east of Glennies Creek in GCP26 (refer to Drawing 4 of Geoterra’s report wihtin Annex G). The maximum drawdown will not occur until after 2024 when the Hebden workings will be completed, and could occur up to 2031 when the Barrett Seam workings are proposed to be completed.
There are no aquifers that provide a beneficial use or sustain groundwater dependent ecosystems within the coal measures in the Integra Underground Project Area.
Groundwater pressures within the Middle Liddell, Hebden and Barrett Seam longwall workings will be significantly reduced following extraction.
Depressurisation of the underground workings, when combined with depressurisation from the adjacent open cut workings, may extend up to 5km from the proposed workings within the Foybrook Formation.
It is not anticipated that the alluvial groundwater quality of Glennies, Bettys or Main Creek will be reduced through extraction of the proposed underground workings.
The current monitoring program over the Project Area involves a number of piezometers equipped with water level loggers reading at 12 hourly intervals, and manual water level, pH and EC monitoring every two months. This monitoring will continue, with periodic reports documenting and interpreting the collected data.
Prior to the commencement of longwall mining in the Hebden Seam, performance indicators will be identified and a statistical assessment will be undertaken to detect when, or if, a significant change has occurred in the groundwater system and which will benchmark the natural variation in groundwater quality and standing water levels.
Contingency procedures will be developed as required and used to manage any impacts identified by monitoring. Activation of contingency procedures will be linked to the assessment of monitoring results, including water quality, aquifer hydrostatic pressure levels and the rate of water level changes.
Following the completion of extraction of each longwall panel, a report will be prepared that summarises relevant monitoring data. The report will outline any changes in the
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Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
groundwater system over the Project Area and contain an interpretation of the data.
Air Quality Short and long term average particulate matter concentrations and dust deposition rates due to Project emissions are predicted to be well below the relevant DECC criteria at all sensitive receptors.
The relevant DECC criteria are predicted to be exceeded at several receptors when emissions from the Project are considered cumulatively with emissions from the proposed Integra Open Cut Project and five other local mines for the mining scenarios presented in this assessment. The assessment showed that at up to 11 privately-owned receptors there would be exceedances of the relevant DECC cumulative criteria during the life of the Project.
ICO will implement a number of management measures to ensure that emissions to atmosphere are minimised and an air quality monitoring program which can be used to verify the accuracy of the modelling results presented in this report. Monitoring will also be used to inform and develop operational controls to minimise impacts to local air quality
Greenhouse Gas Direct emissions from the Project are predicted to contribute approximately 0.0015 per cent Emissions of the Australian annual greenhouse gas emissions total and approximately 0.0053 per cent of emissions to the NSW annual total.
ICO has committed to the continued investigation of measures for the capture and preferential use of fugitive methane from all underground coal sources. Where the use of the methane for power generation is not viable and where practicable, flaring will be adopted. In addition, a suite of other energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction initiatives will be implemented for the Project.
Noise and Noise from construction of infrastructure above the Hebden Pit Bottom and at the Barrett Vibration Portal is predicted to remain below the construction criteria at all privately-owned receptors.
Modelling of operational noise levels associated with the surface facilities for the Integra Underground Coal Project indicates that emissions will remain below the relevant Project Specific Noise Criteria (PSNC) for calm and inversion conditions for the majority of assessed receptors.
Seventeen privately-owned receptors (8,9,10,11,13,47,50,62-64,71-73,76,80,87,153) will lie within the noise management zone (receptors that may experience noise levels up to 5 dBA above the PSNC and where impacts could range from negligible to moderate) for one or more of the scenarios modelled.
Only one privately-owned receptor (153 – Dulwich Property) will lie within the noise affectation zone (receptors may experience noise levels greater than 5 dBA above the PSNC) and only during the inversion scenario.
Traffic volumes associated with the Project are not expected to change from existing levels. Road traffic noise associated with underground operations is therefore expected to remain unchanged and below the relevant Environmental Criteria for Road Traffic Noise (ECRTN).
The cumulative noise assessment indicates that, as a worst case, emissions from the Integra
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Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
Underground operations may marginally increase (between 1 dBA to 4 dBA) the overall existing (cumulative) industrial noise for some privately-owned receptors surrounding the development. It should be noted that changes in noise levels of up to 3 dBA are generally just perceptible by the majority of individuals.
A range of management procedures will be implemented within the noise management zone and noise affectation zone to ensure potential impacts on receptors within these areas from operational noise generated by the Project are reduced.
Existing general site noise management and monitoring procedures will continue as part of the Integra Underground management program to mitigate potential adverse noise impacts resulting from the proposal.
Noise monitoring and reporting will continue to be undertaken for the life of the current proposal in accordance with the existing noise management program.
Ecology A number of threatened species have been identified as occurring within the site and/or likely to occur. Of particular note on this site are Green and Golden Bell Frog, Grey- crowned Babbler, Speckled Warbler, Diamond Firetail, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Brown Treecreeper, Large-footed Myotis and Brush-tailed Phascogale.
No direct vegetation clearance or loss of nesting resources is expected as a result of the predicted levels of subsidence.
To the greatest extent practical, infrastructure will be sited to avoid impacts to vegetation. The exact location of the ventilation system and associated infrastructure will be determined in the field in consultation with an ecologist or environmental scientist to avoid clearance of trees, shrubs and where possible stands of native grasses.
Provided that the mitigation measures outlined in Section 15.14 are adhered to, the impacts of the proposed mining and associated Bettys Creek and Main Creek diversions are unlikely to be of a scale that would result in a significant impact to the threatened species identified above..
Heritage Potential impacts resulting from the Project relate to subsidence induced surface cracking, increased erosion and the excavation and ponding associated with the realignment of a section of Bettys Creek and the Main Creek channels.
The implementation of management measures presented in Section 16.5 will promote the conservation of cultural heritage values across the Project Area. Where impacts are likely to occur, the Aboriginal community will be provided with the opportunity to salvage any surface artefacts prior to any disturbance occurring and monitor surface excavation works associated with the realignment of Bettys Creek.
No impact to historic heritage items or places will result from the proposal.
Waste No change to the annual volume of waste currently generated by the operation will occur as a result of the proposal.
Continued implementation of current waste management practices will minimise potential
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Environmental Key Assessment Outcomes Aspect
adverse impacts resulting from waste generation.
Traffic and As no increase in employee numbers is anticipated, there would be no additional project- Transport related impact on the current road network and capacities. Similarly, given that the Project largely involves the continuation of current activities on site, the inflow of traffic associated with support activities and maintenance will also remain relatively stable in relation to current numbers, and be readily supported by the existing local road network
Varying levels of subsidence and/ or the development of tilts and strains are predicted in the vicinity of Glennies Creek, Middle Falbrook, Stony and Forest Roads. Roads expected to experience subsidence impacts will be managed and monitored in a similar manner to those already subject to Management Plans, as detailed in Section 9.2.1.
All coal will continue to be processed at the CHPP and transported from the CHPP by rail. No additional train movements will result from proposed activities.
Socio- Overall the economic impacts on the region are positive and significant and will generate Economics economic benefits at regional, state and national levels; significantly contribute to direct and indirect employment within the Singleton LGA; and have positive flow on effects for access to facilities and services of the Singleton LGA including the Local Community.
Assessment results have been presented throughout this report and where key issues have been identified, measures have been proposed to negate or mitigate potential impact. These management and monitoring measures are summarised in the statement of commitments for this Project. The commitments will support the Project Approval conditions that will be developed through the Government assessment and approvals process.
It is also noted that additional SMP approvals will be required prior to any mining operations that may cause subsidence not covered by the existing SMP. These will require additional assessment, management planning and community and Government agency consultation.
The Project will provide environmental, social, operational and economic benefits. These include:
continued full time employment for approximately 280 people at full operational capacity. In addition, the engagement of varying numbers of contractors and casual employees will continue throughout different stages in operations. This employment will sustain the associated economic multiplier effects in the local region;
enhancement of ICO’s net present value resulting from the approval to mine additional coal reserves. The total (undiscounted) net value added over the project life is calculated at $2,709 million;
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direct positive impact on the local and regional economy. The salaries and wages of the Underground’s personnel over the life of the Project are calculated at $932 million. Continuation of the Integra Underground mine will also allow continued contribution and support of local community programs;
continued payment of Government taxes and royalties. Taxes and royalties will amount to approximately $1,322 million over the project life at an average of approximately $60 million per year. Additionally, as the proposal concerns an extension of existing operations, there will be no additional demands on Government services or infrastructure;
a reduction in administration time for ICO personnel and the various authorities who have responsibilities with respect to the operations;
enhancement of the economic position of the Integra Underground. Approximately 57 Mt of ROM coal is recoverable from the areas of proposed mining within the Hebden, Barrett and Middle Liddell Seams. This will prevent the sterilisation of a valuable resource and enable ICO to realise the potential financial benefits from its extensive investment at the Integra Underground; and
cost saving for both ICO and the Government. The proposed approach to mining will greatly reduce the need to seek incidental consent modifications, thus reducing costs and saving time for both ICO and the relevant authorities.
Given that the proposal is essentially a continuation of an existing operation, the significant socio-economic significant benefits that would result from the Project, and the comprehensive management and monitoring measures proposed, it is considered that the Project’s benefits outweigh the potential adverse impacts associated with the Project and therefore, the Project is in the best interest of the public.
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Alluvial Soil that contains clay, silt, sand or gravel deposited by running water.
Angle of draw The angle between the vertical and the line joining the edge of the mining void with the limit of vertical subsidence, usually taken as 20 mm.
Project Area The surface area that is likely to be affected by the proposed underground mining. As a minimum it is defined by the depth of cover, angle of draw of 26.5 and the limit of the proposed extraction area.
Community Anyone who is interested in or affected by issues associated with the proposed mining project.
Depth of Cover The depth of the roof of the coal seam from the ground measured in metres.
Emission Factor An expression for the rate at which a pollutant is generated as a result of some activity, divided by the level of that activity.
FEFLOW A finite element groundwater modelling package developed by WASY Institute for Water Resources Planning and Systems Research in Berlin, Germany.
Goaf The mined out area into which the immediate roof strata break.
Habitat An area or areas occupied or periodically occupied by a species, population or ecological community and includes any biotic or abiotic component.
Haul Road Road used in a mine for haulage of rock from the mining area to the processing or stockpile area and for general site access.
Hydrogeology The study of groundwater and the related geologic aspects of surface waters.
Longwall Mining A high capacity underground mining method which utilises a mechanical shearer to cut the coal. The loosened coal falls onto a conveyor for removal from the mine.
Major Project An activity as defined under the State Environment Planning Policy (Major Projects).
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Riparian Associated with drainage lines.
Strain Strain is calculated as the change in horizontal distance between two points on the ground, divided by the original horizontal distance between them.
Subsidence Mining-induced movements and deformations of the ground surface where the vertical downward surface movements are greater than 20 mm, or the potential impacts on major surface infrastructure and/or natural features may be significant, notwithstanding that the vertical downward surface movements are less than 20 mm.
Tilt Tilt is the change in the slope of the ground as a result of differential subsidence, and is calculated as the change in subsidence between two points divided by the distance between those points.
Threatened Species A plant or animal identified in the TSC Act or EPBC Act as extinct, critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable. This term may be extended to encompass threatened species, populations or ecological communities.
Tributary A stream or river that flows into a larger river or lake.
Vertical Subsidence Vertical downward movements of the ground surface caused by underground coal mining.
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ACRONYMS AND SYMBOLS
ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics
ACHMP Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plan adb Air dried basis
AHD Australian Height Datum
AEMR Annual Environmental Management Report
AHIMS Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System
ARI Average recurrence interval
ARTC Australian Rail Track Corporation
CCC Community Consultative Committee
CCD Census Collection Districts
CHPP Coal Handling and Preparation Plant
CL Coal Lease cm centimetre
CH4 Methane
CO2 Carbon Dioxide
CO2-e Carbon Dioxide equivalent
CPDP Conceptual Project Development Plan
DA Development Application/Approval dB decibels
DCC Department of Climate Change (Commonwealth)
DECC Department of Environment and Climate Change (State)
DEWHA Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and Arts
DGR Director-General’s Requirements
DMR Department of Mineral Resources
DoP Department of Planning
DPI Department of Primary Industries
DWE Department of Water and Energy
EA Environmental Assessment
ECRTN Environmental Criteria for Road Traffic Noise
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EIS Environmental Impact Statement
EMS Environmental Management System
ENCM Environmental Noise Control Manual
EP&A Environmental Planning and Assessment
EPBC Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation
EPI Environmental Planning Instrument
EPL Environment Protection Licence
ERM Environmental Resources Management Pty Ltd
ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development g gram
GCC Glennies Creek Colliery
GCCM Glennies Creek Coal Management Pty Ltd
GJ Gigajoule
GHG Greenhouse Gas
GLC Ground Level Concentration
GW groundwater
HFCs hydrofluorocarbons
HREP Hunter Regional Environmental Plan 1989 hrs hours
HVCC Hunter Valley Coal Corporation
ICO Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd
IPCC International Panel on Climate Change kg kilograms kL Kilolitres
LALC Local Aboriginal Land Council
LEP Local Environment Plan
LGA Local Government Area
LW Longwall m metres mbgl Metres Below Ground Level
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MIC Maximum instantaneous charge
ML Mining Lease
ML Million litres (megalitres)
ML/day Megalitres per day
ML/yr Megalitres per year mm millimetres mm/m millimetres per metre
MOP Mining Operations Plan
MP Major Project
MSB Mine Subsidence Board
Mt Million tonnes
Mtpa Million tonnes per annum
NEPM National Environment Protection Measure
NGA National greenhouse Accounts
NGER National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007
NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1995
NSW New South Wales
N2O Nitrous Oxide
PA Project Application/Approval
PEA Preliminary Environmental Assessment
PFCs Perfluorocarbons
POEO Protection of the Environment Operations Act
PSD Possum Skin Dam (artefact site)
PSNC Project specific noise criteria
RBL Rating Background Levels
RL Reduced Level
ROM Run-of-Mine (raw coal prior to washing)
SCT Strata Control Technology Operations Pty Ltd
SD Statistical District
SEPP State Environment Planning Policy
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SF6 Sulphur hexafluoride
SMP Subsidence Management Plan s138 Section 138 of the Coal Mines Regulation Act 1982 t tonnes tph tonnes per hour
TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
TSP Total suspended particulates
UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
WBCSD World Business Council for Sustainable Development
WLALC Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council
WM Act Water Management Act 2000
WRI World Resource Institute
XMO Xstrata Mt Owen
g micrograms
S microsiemens
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Dundon, P. and Associates Pty Ltd, 2006, Ashton Coal Mine Longwall Panels 1 to 4 Subsidence Management Plan Groundwater Assessment. Report prepared for Ashton Coal Operations Ltd.
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NSW Treasury (2007) NSW Government Guidelines for Economic Appraisal, Policy & Guidelines Papers, July 2007, Sydney, Australia.
Peake, T.C (2006) The Vegetation of the Central Hunter Valley, New South Wales. (Version 2.2). Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority, Paterson.
OECD Tax Database, Table II.2 Corporate Income Tax Rate, http://www.oecd.org/document/60/0,3343,en_2649_34533_1942460_1_1_1_ 1,00.html
R.W Corkery & Co, 2007, Environmental Assessment, Glennies Creek Open Cut Coal Mine. Report prepared for Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd.
Strata Control Technology Operations Pty Ltd (SCT), 2009, Subsidence Assessment for Longwall Mining in the Hebden and Barrett Seams. Report prepared for Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd.
Strata Control Technology Operations Pty Ltd (SCT), 2008, Review of Subsidence Monitoring to end of Longwall 7 at Integra Coal and Comparison with Predictions. Report prepared for Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd.
WRM Water & Environment Pty Ltd(WRM), 2009, Surface Water Assessment for Integra Coal Mine Barrett/Hebden Underground Mine Extension Project Environmental Assessment. Report prepared for Integra Coal Operations Pty Ltd.
Umwelt (2007) Flora and Fauna Assessment for Modification of Glendell Mine Operations. Prepared for Xstrata Mount Owen, August 2007.
Umwelt (2003a) Mt Owen Environmental Impact Statement. Prepared for Hunter Valley Coal Corporation, December 2003.
Umwelt (2003b) Flora and Fauna Assessment Longwall Panels Three to Six. Prepared for Glennies Creek Coal Management Pty Ltd, August 2003.
World Resources Institute and World Business Council for Sustainable Development, The Greenhouse Gas Protocol: A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA 0061887 EA/FINAL/9 JULY 2009 308 Volume 2 ANNEXURES
Annex A Director- General’s Requirements Annex B Land Ownership and Receptor Details Annex C Approvals Relating to Integra Underground Annex D Stakeholder Engagement Resources Annex E Subsidence Assessment Annex F Surface Water Assessment Annex G Groundwater Assessment Volume 3 ANNEXURES
Annex H Air Quality Assessment Annex I Noise Impact Assessment Annex J Heritage Assessment Annex K Flora and Fauna Assessment Annex L EA Project Team ERM has over 100 offices across the following countries worldwide
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