HVO 2009 Annual Environmental Management Report - Final

Coal & Allied – Hunter Valley Operations
3.23.2 Biosolids Trial
In November 2007, a trial was initiated in West Pit to investigate the effect on tree/shrub establishment and
growth of various soil/spoil treatments. Three adjacent blocks of approximately 5.5 hectares were prepared as
follows: one with 100mm of topsoil, one with overburden only and one with 190 tonnes/hectare of biosolids
spread on the overburden. Monitoring in 2008 indicated improved vegetation establishment in the topsoil and
biosolids plots. Coal & Allied is now seeking to establish long term supply contracts for the supply of organic
material to use in rehabilitation activities. It is expected these will be finalised during 2010.
3.23.3 Meteorological Data Measurement and Assessment
Coal & Allied continues to play a key role in the development of the use of acoustic sounding equipment and
modelling techniques to predict air blast overpressure prior to blasting. In 2004 a joint venture of companies
operating open cut mines in the Hunter Valley was formed to build and manage a worlds best practice
meteorological monitoring facility and work with an ACARP funded research project (Project C12036) to
develop techniques to forecast meteorological conditions which will enhance blast overpressure.
The research project was completed in 2008 and the forecasting system became fully operational shortly
after. In 2009 the system was enhanced with improved web tools to display overpressure reinforcement
patterns and improved maintenance and support facilities. Current activities include investigation into an
updated meteorological model and better techniques to adjust forecast conditions based on real time surface
measurements.
This research project was awarded an ACARP Research Excellence Award – 2009.
3.23.4 Blast Vibration Studies
Coal & Allied operates its open cut mines close to rural communities and has a duty of care to minimise its
blasting impacts on local residents. Coal & Allied has participated in a number of recent research projects to
better understand and minimise blast vibration impacts.
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