Bengalla Mining Company Pty Limited - Rio Tinto Coal Australia

Bengalla Mining Company Pty Limited 

Rehabilitation & Landscape 

Management Plan 

Revision Date Description Author Reviewer Approved 

0 16/07/07 Original Document 

M Walker 

Hansen Bailey 

D Munro 

Hansen Bailey 

J Torkington 

Bengalla Mine 

1 25/10/07 

Revision 

incorporating 

comments from 

DPI 

M Walker 

Hansen Bailey 

D Munro 

Hansen Bailey 

J Torkington 

Bengalla Mine



TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1.0 BACKGROUND ...........................................................................1 

1.1 Introduction ................................................................................ 1 

1.2 Management Plan Requirement ...................................................... 1 

1.3 Management Plan Objective........................................................... 3 

1.4 Document Structure ..................................................................... 4 

2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM..................................5 

3.0 REHABILITATION MANAGEMENT PLAN .....................................7 

3.1 Objectives................................................................................... 7 

3.2 Five Year Rehabilitation and Management Measures ........................ 10 

3.3 Medium and Long-term Management Measures .............................. 14 

3.4 Completion Criteria .................................................................... 14 

4.0 FINAL VOID MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................18 

4.1 Justification............................................................................... 18 

4.2 Design Criteria........................................................................... 19 

4.3 Actions & Control Measures ......................................................... 19 

5.0 MINE CLOSURE PLAN ..............................................................20 

5.1 Objectives................................................................................. 20 

5.2 Post-Mining Land Use Options...................................................... 20 

5.3 Mine Infrastructure .................................................................... 22 

5.4 Environmental Management ........................................................ 22 

5.5 Performance Measurement .......................................................... 22 

6.0 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION...............................................23 

7.0 REPORTING & REVIEW............................................................23 

8.0 RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................24 

9.0 REFERENCES ...........................................................................25 

Ref: 071025 bmc rehabilitation & landscape mp 

Page ii



LIST OF TABLES 

Table 1 Rehabilitation and Landscape Management Plan Requirements ............. 2 

Table 2 EMS Standards and Procedures ........................................................ 5 

Table 3 Comparison of Pre-Mining and Post-Mining Land Capability .................. 7 

Table 4 Bengalla Initial Rehabilitation Completion Criteria ............................. 15 

Table 5 Management Measures and Responsibilities ..................................... 24 

Table 6 Indicative Vegetation Species Directly Seeded at Bengalla ................. 52 

LIST OF FIGURES 

Figure 1 Conceptual Post-Mining Landform..................................................... 8 

Figure 2 Conceptual Post-Mining Land Capability............................................. 9 

LIST OF APPENDICES 

Appendix A 

Appendix B 

Appendix C 

Regulatory Correspondence 

Relevant CNA EMS Procedures 

Typical Revegetation Species Mix 

Ref: 071025 bmc rehabilitation & landscape mp 

Page iii



1.0 Background 

1.1 Introduction 

Bengalla Mine (Bengalla) is located approximately 4 kilometres (km) west of 

Muswellbrook in the Upper Hunter Valley of New South Wales (NSW). 

Bengalla Mining Company (BMC) was granted development consent (DA 211/93) in 1996 

under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) to operate 

Bengalla, in accordance with the supporting document Bengalla Mine Environmental 

Impact Statement 1993 (Bengalla EIS). This approval allowed Bengalla to produce up to 

8.7 Million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of Run-of-mine (ROM) coal to 2017, and conduct 

other associated mining activities. 

BMC was granted a modification to DA 211/93 (DA 211/93 (M1)) under Section 96(2) of 

the EP&A Act in November 2006 in accordance with the supporting document Statement 

of Environmental Effects – Modifications to Mining Operations 2006 (Bengalla SEE). This 

modification permits BMC to: 

• Increase the final landform height to 270 Reduced Level (RL); 

• Relocate the overland conveyor and ROM Coal Hopper; 

• Upgrade the Coal Handling and Preparation Plant (CHPP) to allow two-stage 

washing; 

• Construct temporary tailings drying areas; and 

• Increase maximum allowable ROM coal production levels to 10.7 Mtpa. 

1.2 Management Plan Requirement 

This Rehabilitation and Landscape Management Plan (RLMP) has been prepared in 

consultation with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and to the satisfaction of 

the Department of Planning (DoP). The appointment of Hansen Bailey (Environmental 

Consultants) to prepare this RLMP has been approved by DoP prior to commencement. 

Correspondence with DPI and DoP is provided in Appendix A. 

This RLMP has been developed in accordance with the requirements of DA 211/93 (M1) 

Schedule 3, Conditions 33, 34, 35 and 36 which are listed in Table 1. A reference to 

where each specific requirement is addressed in this RLMP is also included. 

Ref: 071025 bmc rehabilitation & landscape mp Page 1



Table 1 

Rehabilitation & Landscape Management Plan Requirements 

Condition Requirement Section 

33 

By end of July 2007, the Applicant must prepare (and following approval 

implement) a detailed Rehabilitation and Landscape Management Plan 

for the development, in consultation with affected agencies, and to the 

satisfaction of the DPI and the Director-General. This plan must be 

prepared by suitably qualified expert/s whose appointment/s have been 

approved by the Director-General, and must include a: 

(a) 

Rehabilitation Management Plan; 

This 

RLMP 

(b) 

(c) 

Final Void Management Plan; and 

Mine Closure Plan. 

34 

The Rehabilitation Management Plan must include: 

(a) the rehabilitation objectives for the site; 3.1 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

(e) 

a description of the short, medium, and long term measures that 

would be implemented to: 

• rehabilitate the site; and 

• manage the remnant vegetation and habitat on the site; 

detailed assessment and completion criteria for the rehabilitation 

of the site; 

a detailed description of how the performance of the rehabilitation 

of the mine would be monitored over time to achieve the stated 

objectives; 

a detailed description of what measures would be implemented 

over the next 5 years to rehabilitate and manage the landscape of 

the site including the procedures to be implemented for: 

3.2 & 

3.3 

3.4 

3.2.5 & 

4.0 

3.2 

• progressively rehabilitating areas disturbed by mining; 3.2.3 & 

3.2.4 

• implementing revegetation and regeneration; 3.2.4 

• protecting areas outside the disturbance areas; 3.2.1 

• managing impacts on fauna; 3.2.1 

• conserving and reusing topsoil; 3.2.1 & 

3.2.3 

• collecting and propagating seed for rehabilitation works; 3.2.1 

• salvaging and reusing material from the site for habitat 

enhancement; 

3.2.1 

• controlling weeds and feral pests; 3.2.6 

• controlling access; 3.2.5 

• bushfire management; 3.2.6 

• managing any identified conflicts between the rehabilitation of 

the mine and Aboriginal cultural heritage; and 

3.2.1 




Condition Requirement Section 

(f) 

details of who is responsible for monitoring, reviewing, and 

implementing the plan. 

6.0 

The Final Void Management Plan must: 4.0 

(a) justify the planned final location and future use of the final void/s; 4.1 

35 

(b) 

incorporate design criteria and specifications for the final void/s 

based on verified groundwater modelling predictions and a reassessment 

of post-mining groundwater equilibration; and 

(c) describe what actions and measures would be implemented to: 4.3 

4.2 

• minimise any potential adverse impacts associated with the 

final void/s; and 

• manage and monitor the potential impacts of the final void/s 

until the Mining Lease for the development is relinquished. 

The Mine Closure Plan must: 5.0 

a) define the objectives and criteria for mine closure; 5.1 

36 

b) investigate options for the future use of the site, including any 

final void/s; 

c) describe the measures that would be implemented to minimise or 

manage the ongoing environmental effects of the development; 

and 

d) describe how the performance of these measures would be 

monitored over time. 

5.2 

5.4 

5.5 

This RLMP has been compiled generally in accordance with the Strategic Framework for 

Mine Closure (ANZMEC/MCA, 2000), Guidelines to Mining, Rehabilitation and 

Environmental Management Process (DPI, 2006) and Bengalla’s Mining Operations Plan 

(MOP) (2006). 

1.3 Management Plan Objective 

The primary objective of this RLMP is to address the requirements of DA 211/93 (M1) 

and to plan for rehabilitation and mine closure at Bengalla to satisfy regulatory and Rio 

Tinto Coal Australia (RTCA) requirements. 

This RLMP includes preliminary details of the Final Void Management Plan and Mine 

Closure Plan based on existing and available information. This is consistent with the 

explanatory note included in Development Consent Condition 33 (Table 1) which allows 

for the subsequent revision of this RLMP to include a detailed Final Void Management 

Plan and Mine Closure Plan. As mining at Bengalla is currently planned and approved to 

continue for at least 10 years, a detailed Final Void Management Plan and Mine Closure 

Plan will be developed at least five years prior to mine closure. 




Two options are currently available at Bengalla in regards to mine planning and ultimate 

mine closure. The first option is as currently approved, mine closure in 2017, with a final 

void located to the west. The second option relates to large areas of identified coal 

reserves to the west of currently approved mining operations at Bengalla. Should 

Bengalla seek and be granted approval to continue mining to uncover these coal 

reserves, then mine closure would be rescheduled and the final location of the final void 

would be altered. 

1.4 Document Structure 

This RLMP is structured as follows: 

• Section 2.0 describes Bengalla’s Environmental Management System (EMS) with 

particular reference to rehabilitation and mine closure aspects; 

• Section 3.0 provides Bengalla’s Rehabilitation Management Plan, describing: 

o The overall objective for rehabilitation; 

o The rehabilitation and management measures to be implemented over the 

next five years; 

o The ongoing medium and long-term rehabilitation and management measures 

to be implemented, beyond the five year period of this RLMP; and 

o The completion criteria, success indicators and performance monitoring 

techniques to measure the success of rehabilitation. 

• Section 4.0 provides the preliminary Final Void Management Plan based on 

information available to date, including: 

o A justification for the final void design and location; 

o A conceptual design criteria for the final void, utilising preliminary information 

and the results of a recent groundwater assessment; and 

o Conceptually describing the actions and control measures required for the 

final void. 

• Section 5.0 presents the preliminary Mine Closure Plan, including a preliminary 

discussion on: 

o The preliminary overall objectives for mine closure; 

o The potential post mining land use for the mine site; 

o The conceptual design criteria for mine closure, with reference to those items 

which are anticipated to be removed or retained; 

o The conceptual environmental management and monitoring network after 

mine closure; and 

o The conceptual measures for evaluating performance after mine closure. 

• Section 6.0 describes the stakeholder consultation undertaken in relation to 

rehabilitation and mine closure to date; 

• Section 7.0 outlines the reporting and review requirements of this RLMP; and 

• Section 8.0 lists actions and key responsibilities associated with this RLMP. 




2.0 Environmental Management System 

BMC has in place an EMS accredited to the International Standards Organisation (ISO) 

14001 standard. The EMS is designed so that BMC can: 

• Effectively manage its environmental issues; 

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements; 

• Continually improve its environmental performance; and 

• Satisfy the expectations of stakeholders and the local community. 

The EMS forms the basis of environmental management at Bengalla and includes a 

procedures, standards and management plans to ensure all regulatory requirements are 

met. This RLMP (and any subsequent revisions) will form part of the EMS. 

Table 2 lists the standards and procedures associated with the EMS and highlights those 

specifically relevant to rehabilitation, final void and mine closure (which are reproduced 

in Appendix B). 

Table 2 

EMS Standards & Procedures 

1. EMS 

Standard 

2. Environmental, Social 

and Cultural Impact 

Management 

Procedures 

1.1 Aspects and Impacts 

1.2 Objectives and Targets 

1.3 Risk Assessments 

1.4 Environmental Audits, Inspections and Non-Conformance 

Management (includes regulatory audits) 

1.5 Environmental Legislative Compliance 

1.6 Environmental Training 

1.7 Environmental Reporting 

1.8 Incident Reporting 

1.9 Communications (includes community and complaints 

management) 

1.10 Monitoring and Measurement* 

1.11 Annual Management Review of the EMS 

1.12 Document Control 

2.1 

Cultural Heritage Management (includes European and 

Aboriginal heritage)* 

3. Property Transaction 3.1 Property Transaction Guidelines (Rio Tinto)* 

4. Closure Planning 4.1 Closure Planning Guidelines* 

5. Rehabilitation 5.1 Rehabilitation* 

6. Waste Management 

6.1 Waste Management (includes hazardous and Group A waste) 

6.2 Coarse Rejects and Tailings Disposal 




Standard 

7. Water Management 

Procedures 

7.1 Water Management* 

7.2 Water Discharge* 

8.1 Dust Management CHPP 

8. Air Quality Management 8.2 Air Quality – Mobile Equipment 

8.3 Air Quality – Spontaneous Combustion 

9. Noise and Vibration 9.1 Noise 

Control 9.2 Blasting (includes air quality and vibration) 

10. Land Management 

11. Greenhouse 

Minimisation 

10.1 

Visual Management (including infrastructure design and 

lighting management)* 

10.2 Flora and Fauna* 

11.1 Greenhouse Minimisation 

12. Acid Mine Drainage 12.1 Acid Mine Drainage Prevention and Control* 

13. Site Contamination 

Prevention and Control 

13.1 

Site Contamination Prevention and Controls (note: Safety 

System handles chemicals) 

*denotes procedures specifically relevant to rehabilitation and mine closure 

The EMS requires that objectives and targets be established to ensure continual 

improvement in environmental performance. The EMS also contains Environmental 

Management Programs (EMPs) which document the practical means to achieve objectives 

and targets and continually reduce environmental risks through identified environmental 

improvements. 

The EMS includes a variety of environmental audits to be undertaken at Bengalla 

including: 

• Regular internal, independent environmental audits which are undertaken four 

times per year; 

• Periodic external certification audits of the EMS to verify it complies with ISO14001 

undertaken biennially; 

• A combined biennial compliance audit of approval conditions and RTCA 

expectations; 

• DoP audits at five yearly intervals as per requirements of DA 211/93 (M1), 

undertaken at the same time as the compliance audit; and 

• Other audits by statutory authorities (DPI and DoP annual audit of rehabilitation and 

announced or unannounced audits by the Department of Environment and Climate 

Change (DECC)). 

The EMS will continue to operate during and following mine closure to ensure all 

environmental (including monitoring and management) and social responsibilities are 

met for up to five years after mine closure or as approved by relevant regulators. 




3.0 Rehabilitation Management Plan 

3.1 Objectives 

The main objective of rehabilitation at Bengalla is to develop an undulating, free-draining 

landform with an optimum land capability which supports agricultural land for 

predominately cattle grazing and native habitat. 

The proposed landform and rehabilitation strategy at Bengalla is shown in Figure 1 as 

adapted from the Bengalla SEE and MOP. The final landform will be undulating, with 

slopes generally to 10 o , and up to a maximum of 18 o on the low wall. Erosion and 

sediment control and water management structures will be incorporated into the 

landform as rehabilitation progresses. The landform will be predominately revegetated to 

improved pastures and trees. Where possible, any tree planting will be connected to 

remnant areas of forest or woodland, so as to provide corridors for wildlife migration. 

The Synoptic Plan: Integrated Landscapes for Coal Mine Rehabilitation in the Hunter 

Valley of New South Wales (Synoptic Plan) (DMR, 1999) identifies potential vegetation 

corridors across the Hunter Valley and encourages the integration of mine rehabilitation 

with remnant vegetation. The Synoptic Plan recommended the reconstruction and 

enhancement of the riparian corridor along Dry Creek (see Figure 1). As the riparian 

corridor along Dry Creek will not be disturbed by currently approved mining operations, 

the recommendations of the Synoptic Plan have not been incorporated into this RLMP. 

The management of the riparian corridor along Dry Creek will be further considered 

during the detailed development of the final Mine Closure Plan. Tree plantings completed 

for rehabilitation purposes at Bengalla will aim to link to remnant vegetation. 

The post-mining land capability for Bengalla is shown on Figure 2. A comparison of the 

pre and post-mining land capability within the DA area are shown in Table 3, with a 

relatively small reduction in Class V land capability area resulting due to the final void. 

Table 3 

Pre-Mining & Post-Mining Land Capability Comparison 

Class 

Pre-mining 

(ha) 

Postmining 

(ha) 

III 75.7 75.7 

IV 188.6 188.6 

V 1,378.2 1,272.4 

Class M 

(Void) 

Land Description 

Regular cultivation with intensive soil conservation 

measures such as contour banks and waterways 

Grazing and occasional cultivation with simple practices 

such as stock control and fertiliser application 

Grazing and occasional cultivation with intensive soil 

conservation measures such as contour ripping and banks 

- 105.8 Unsuitable for rural production 


1 80 

1 5 0 

17 0 

6 0 

1 

1 8 0 

140 

1 7 0 

16 0 

1 50 

River 

Hunter 

190 

14 0 

2 2 0 

2 1 0 

200 

220 

2 40 

2 70 

27 0 

260 

2 5 0 

2 4 0 

2 3 0 

2 20 

16 0 

1 5 0 

14 0 

3 0 

18 0 

1 9 0 

1 8 0 

1 9 0 

1 8 0 

1 6 0 

1 5 0 

1 70 

1 60 

14 0 

1 4 0 

15 0 

2 30 

2 2 0 

210 

2 0 0 

2 2 0 

1 80 

Creek 

2 00 

1 9 0 

2 1 0 

2 3 0 

Dry 

18 0 

1 9 0 

1 7 0 

2 0 0 

21 0 

1 60 

1 8 0 

1 9 0 

17 0 

1 50 

1 8 0 

1 7 0 

1 6 0 

1 5 0 

14 0 

16 0 

14 0 

Legend 

DA Boundary 

Native Trees 

Rehabilitated Overburden 

Dams 

Tree Screens 

Scattered Remnant Vegetation 

Visual Bund 

Drainage 

Final Void Stabilised Waterways 

Co-ordinate System: MGA Zone 56 

Source : Bengalla MOP ( 2006 ) 

BENGALLA MINE 

Aerial Data Dec 2006 

Conceptual Post-Mining Landform 

Cad File: 02350D.dwg 

Date:17.07.07 Drawn:JD 

Figure 

1

2 2 0 

1 80 

1 5 0 

17 0 

6 0 

1 

1 8 0 

140 

1 7 0 

16 0 

1 50 

River 

Hunter 

190 

14 0 

2 2 0 

2 1 0 

200 

220 

2 40 

2 70 

27 0 

260 

2 5 0 

2 4 0 

2 3 0 

2 20 

16 0 

1 5 0 

14 0 

3 0 

18 0 

1 9 0 

1 70 

1 80 

1 8 0 

1 9 0 

1 8 0 

1 60 

1 6 0 

1 5 0 

1 4 0 

1 50 

15 0 

14 0 

14 0 

2 0 0 

2 2 0 

210 

1 9 0 

18 0 

1 9 0 

1 7 0 

1 60 

1 8 0 

1 9 0 

17 0 

1 6 0 

14 0 

2 00 

2 1 0 

1 5 0 

2 30 

2 0 0 

2 3 0 

21 0 

1 8 0 

1 7 0 

16 0 

Legend 

DA Boundary 

Bengalla EIS Study Area 

Class M 

Class II 

Class IV 

Class V 

Class V - 10° slope 

Class V - 18° slope 

Final Void 

Co-ordinate System: MGA Zone 56 

Source : Bengalla MOP ( 2006 ) 

BENGALLA MINE 

Aerial Data Dec 2006 

Conceptual Post-Mining Land Capability 

Cad File: 02351D.dwg 

Date:19.07.07 Drawn:JD 

Figure 

2



3.2 Five Year Rehabilitation & Management Measures 

The Bengalla EMS contains Environmental Procedures (EP) that specifically address 

rehabilitation and related activities. These are shown in Appendix B and include: 

• EP 5.1 Rehabilitation; 

• EP 2.1 Cultural Heritage Management; and 

• EP 10.2 Flora and Fauna. 

The following section details the key stages of the land disturbance and rehabilitation 

process at Bengalla and a summary of the management measures utilised. For further 

detail on the rehabilitation process, please refer to the EPs listed above in Appendix B. 

3.2.1 Clearing & Topsoil Stripping 

Prior to disturbing any new areas, a site inspection and Ground Disturbance Permit (GDP) 

is completed by the Environmental Specialist (or delegate) to identify any environmental 

issues associated with the disturbance of the area in accordance with EP 5.1. 

Three comprehensive flora and fauna assessments have been conducted in the DA 

Boundary in accordance with the relevant legislation. Only one threatened flora species 

(Bothriochloa biloba) was identified in these assessments and no other threatened flora 

or fauna have been identified at Bengalla. 

Nonetheless, all areas proposed for disturbance are surveyed by an appropriately 

qualified person and if B. biloba is present, a Botanist will identify relevant clumps 

suitable for relocation in selected areas of rehabilitation in accordance with EP 10.2. 

As illustrated on Figure 1, there is very limited existing remnant native tree cover within 

the approved disturbance area at Bengalla. However, prior to undertaking any 

disturbance, all habitat trees or seed trees are identified. Prior to, and during clearing, 

where available, seed is collected and any fauna present is relocated by an appropriately 

qualified person in accordance with EP 10.2. 

All suitable habitat trees are strategically relocated to established rehabilitation and any 

additional suitable hardwood timber which could be utilised for the purposes of farm 

fencing is identified and collected prior to clearing in accordance with EP 10.2. 

The pre-clearing inspection process also includes confirmation against the CNA 

Archaeology and Cultural Heritage database that no Aboriginal archaeology is located 

within the area to be disturbed. 




All Aboriginal archaeological sites that have been identified and do not have consent to 

destroy under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) within the 21 year 

approved disturbance boundary are protected by fencing and signage in accordance with 

EP 2.1. 

No disturbance of any area occurs until the respective area has been approved via the 

Environmental Specialist (or delegate) in the GDP. 

Vegetation is then cleared and windrowed for use as fencing material and/or placed on 

rehabilitation for habitat enhancement. Other material is placed in-pit. Topsoil 

(approximately 100 – 150 mm) is stripped in accordance with the MOP and EP 5.1 and 

either directly placed on shaped spoil areas for rehabilitation or in circumstances where 

this is not possible, it is stockpiled for later use in rehabilitation. 

3.2.2 Topsoil Stockpiling 

In accordance with EP 5.1, all topsoil stockpiles are located in designated areas and 

constructed to a shape and depth as specified in the MOP. Each topsoil stockpile is 

pegged, marked with signage, with the topsoil stockpile surveyed annually for its volume. 

The topsoil stockpile is to be located: 

• As close as practicable and readily accessible to respreading areas; 

• Where they will not interfere with present and future mining and ancillary 

operations; 

• At least 10 m from trees or watercourses; and 

• In areas that will allow free drainage and minimal soil erosion. 

Topsoil stockpiles that will not be used for longer than three months will be shaped, 

fertilised and revegetated with a cover crop specified by the Environmental Specialist to 

provide initial stability, maintain soil viability and minimise erosion. When removing soil 

from stockpiles to place on shaped areas all practical measures (including spraying 

and/or removing the top 20 mm as proven to be effective through trials) will be taken to 

remove weed seed banks prior to re-spreading. 

3.2.3 Shaping & Topsoiling 

Once mining activities in an area have ceased, the overburden is shaped according to the 

final landform design (Figure 1). Topsoil is then re-spread on the shaped areas to a 

minimum depth of 100 mm, in accordance with EP5.1. Contour banks are constructed at 

regular intervals down the slope of the rehabilitation area. The area is then rock-raked to 

generally remove rocks greater than 200 mm in diameter. Areas are then scarified along 

the contour to assist in seed germination and water infiltration. 




3.2.4 Revegetation 

Revegetation is undertaken progressively and as soon as practicable after the completion 

of surface preparation. Seeding of a rehabilitation area commences as soon as practical 

after raking using either a tractor mounted seed spreader or direct hand seeding. 

Generally, pasture areas and trees and shrub areas will be sown separately. Where 

utilised, tube stock may be planted in rip lines at approximately 5 m spacing and in an 

irregular pattern along the contour to achieve as natural a result as possible. 

The typical pasture and tree species used for revegetation are shown in Appendix C. 

3.2.5 Monitoring 

In accordance with EP 5.1 access to rehabilitated areas is closed to all equipment and 

vehicles not involved in the rehabilitation process. 

Site inspections of rehabilitated areas are carried out on an annual basis as required by 

EP 5.1. The main aim of these inspections is to confirm rehabilitation processes, identify 

areas of erosion, the presence of weeds and/or feral animals and ensure appropriate 

maintenance activities are undertaken. 

In order to evaluate and monitor vegetation in these annual inspections, a monitoring 

transect will be established at regular intervals (approximately 300 m) along the 

overburden emplacement slope on rehabilitation which has been established for greater 

than two years with the following descriptive parameters recorded: 

• Describe the vegetation in general terms; 

• Assess and describe the grass cover: namely, the total percentage cover and 

dominant species; 

• Assess, describe and estimate the weed cover (%) and the dominant weed species 

(in particular declared noxious weeds); 

• Estimate the percentage of bare ground; 

• Describe tree health, noting signs of drought stress, nutrient deficiencies or 

disease; 

• Assess the overall percentage of healthy trees; and 

• Establish and mark a permanent photo point for visual comparison over time. 

Further, the annual inspection will also record the following parameters at each transect 

to assess and monitor soils and erosion: 

• Describe the type and extent of erosion (e.g. gully erosion, erosion rills, tunnel 

erosion failed water management structures); 




• Record the location, number and dimension of all gullies greater than 30 cm in 

width or depth; and 

• Take a representative soil sample how and from where and analyse for pH, EC, 

organic carbon, nitrogen and total and available phosphorous. 

A qualified surveyor will survey all rehabilitated areas, with the information reported in 

the Annual Environmental Management Plan (AEMR). Annual inspections of rehabilitated 

areas will be carried out in conjunction with the DPI to determine progress against the 

initial completion criteria in Table 4. 

Flora and fauna surveys on rehabilitation and areas ahead of mining are conducted every 

five years by a suitably qualified ecologist in accordance with EP 10.2. 

3.2.6 Maintenance 

An annual maintenance program is conducted on rehabilitated areas for up to five years 

after the initial sowing in accordance with EP 5.1. This will include fertiliser application as 

required. Feral animal control is undertaken following consultation with and allocation of 

permits from DECC as required. Any feral animal culling is conducted by registered 

personnel. 

Inspections for weeds are generally undertaken every six months and if weed control is 

required, the weeds are sprayed during active growth for effective control. The success 

of spraying will be assessed by visual inspections two weeks after spraying. Follow up 

spraying may be required if control is not achieved with the first application. 

Bushfire risk on rehabilitated areas is managed in accordance with the DoP approved CNA 

Generic Bushfire Management Plan. Bengalla has in place a number of effective measures 

for the prevention and control of bushfires which include maintaining fire access trails, 

minimising and regular clearing of undergrowth, clearing debris, grazing of pastures and 

minimisation of fuel build-up. 

3.2.7 Rehabilitation Trials & Research 

In selected areas of rehabilitation, Bengalla will continue to undertake rehabilitation 

trials in consultation with DPI which will utilise best practice mediums and procedures, 

with progress and results reported in the AEMR. These may include trials associated 

with the use of biosolids, planting in different mediums, mulching/gypsum application, 

use of varied types of stock/seeds and consultation with other mining operations in 

relation to practical and proven technologies. 




3.3 Medium & Long-term Management Measures 

The rehabilitation measures described in Section 3.2 will continue to be implemented 

over the life of mining at Bengalla. This will ensure the rehabilitation activities result in a 

final landform which is undulating and free-draining (Figure 1) and has post-mining land 

capability (Figure 2) as determined in consultation with relevant stakeholders. 

In particular, the completion criteria and performance monitoring discussed further in 

Section 3.4 provide an evaluation mechanism of the rehabilitation measures being 

implemented. The rehabilitation measures are subject to continuous review and 

improvement, reflecting the results of performance monitoring and progress towards 

rehabilitation targets. 

3.4 Completion Criteria 

Initial completion criteria for the short-term (annual), medium-term (< 5 yrs) and longterm 

(life of mine) have been developed to achieve the site rehabilitation objectives and 

are shown in Table 4. Rehabilitation that achieves the completion criteria will be 

considered to be sustainable without ongoing management and therefore suitable for 

mining lease relinquishment. 

The completion criteria include success indicators and monitoring requirements to 

monitor the successful establishment of rehabilitation and trigger remedial action, where 

necessary. This will ensure that rehabilitation achieves the completion criteria in a 

suitable timeframe, consistent with the mine closure plan. 




Table 4 

Bengalla Initial Rehabilitation Completion Criteria 

Objective Long-term Completion Criteria 

(i.e. Life of Mine) 

OVERBURDEN EMPLACEMENT 

• Internal slopes



Objective 

Long-term Completion Criteria 


Medium-term Success Indicators 

(i.e. < 5 years) 

Short-term Monitoring 

(i.e. Annually)^ 

• Minimum of 70% vegetative cover 

over 80% of rehabilitated areas * 

• Suitable pasture species dominant 

• Minimal presence of weeds (esp. 

Galenia sp) 

• Weed control and ameliorative 

measures as necessary 

• Tree plots recruitment rates are 

equal to or exceed mortality rates 

• Grazing conducted in accordance 

with land classes 

• Tree plots indicating good growth 

and mortality rates – nearing 

completion criteria 

• Successful small trials of grazing 

• Monitoring of vegetation and 

erosion and sediment control as 

discussed in Section 3.2.5 

Surface run-off is not 

polluting waters 

off site 

• Water leaving site must meet EPL 

6538 criteria of pH between 6.5 

and 9.5 and TSS of < 120 mg/L 

• Water monitoring results within 

limits of EPL 6538 and all dirty water 

retained on site 

• Monitoring and inspection of 

water management structures by 

appropriately qualified person 

FINAL VOID 

• Design to stable gradient by 

geotechnical personnel, if 

necessary blast 

• Final high wall meets design 

requirements, geotechnical stable 

• Monitoring confirms stability 

• Monitoring of high wall stability 

All hazards associated 

with the final high 

wall and low wall are 

controlled 

• Fencing established along the 

entire length of the final high wall, 

preventing pedestrian and live 

stock access 

• Berms, trenches and catch 

benches established at 

appropriate intervals where 

necessary 

• Implementation and ongoing 

maintenance of fencing 

• Exclusion of access 

• Implementation of berms and 

trenches at regular intervals 

• Stability of berms and trenches 

• Regular monitoring of fence 

condition and restriction of 

access 

• Regular monitoring and/or 

maintenance of berms and 

trenches 




Objective 

Final low wall is 

shaped, stable and 

maintains pasture 

cover 

Long-term Completion Criteria 


Medium-term Success Indicators 

(i.e. < 5 years) 

Short-term Monitoring 

(i.e. Annually)^ 

• Low wall slope gradient is at



4.0 Final Void Management Plan 

As discussed in Section 1.3, this RLMP provides a preliminary Final Void Management 

Plan. A detailed Final Void Management Plan will be included in a revision of this RLMP 

within five years of mine closure, however, preliminary final void justification, design 

criteria and control measures are provided below utilising available information. 

4.1 Justification 

Based on the currently approved mine plan at Bengalla, a final void will be created in 

2017 as shown on Figure 1, consistent with the Bengalla EIS and SEE. The void will be 

aligned generally north-south and will have a strike length of approximately 2.9 km. The 

void will be formed with a depth up to -14 m RL and will be retained as an open water 

body. 

The currently approved location of the final void is at the economic limit of approved 

open cut mining at this stage and thus, has no alternative location. However, as 

previously noted in Section 1.2, recoverable coal reserves have been identified to the 

west of currently approved mining operations at Bengalla. Should Bengalla seek, and 

ultimately be granted approval to continue mining to uncover these reserves, the location 

of the final void will change. 

The currently approved void will remain as an open water body as all available 

overburden will be used to create undulating and a free-draining overburden 

emplacement. On this basis, is not environmentally or economically feasible to alter the 

use or location of the final void at this stage. 

Predictive groundwater modelling of the final void was undertaken in 2006 by 

Australasian Groundwater and Environmental Consultants (AGE). This modelling 

confirmed that an equilibrium void lake water level will be reached after more than 200 

years. At this level the inflows to the void from groundwater and surface water runoff 

are balanced by evaporation from the surface of the void water storage. 

The equilibrium void water level is approximately 150 m below the crest of the void and 

there is therefore a very low risk that the void would overtop even during an extreme 

rainfall event. The equilibrium void water level is also well below (in the order of 75 - 

105 m) the pre-mining groundwater levels. Hence the open void will act as a 

groundwater sink and no contamination of groundwater will occur (AGE, 2006). 

The location and use of the final void will not result in any adverse environmental 

impacts and is situated well above the 1:100 Hunter River flood level. 




The location and use of the final void will continue to be investigated during detailed 

mine closure planning and further detail will be provided in the next revision of the Final 

Void Management Plan. 

4.2 Design Criteria 

The final void will be managed and designed such that the low wall is at a slope of no 

greater than 18 o and will be rehabilitated with pasture species suitable for surface 

stability. Benches will be incorporated at regular intervals along the low wall where 

practical (Hannan, 2003). Any exposed coal seams will be covered in accordance with 

EP 4.1 Closure Planning Guidelines. 

The steep slope of the high wall will be designed to a stable gradient, based on 

assessments of geotechnical stability and risk, to be undertaken as agreed with DPI. 

Fencing will be constructed across the high wall to restrict cattle and pedestrian access as 

agreed with DPI. A steep ditch and bund wall may also be constructed at a short distance 

back from the high wall, so as to prevent inadvertent vehicular access as agreed with 

DPI. 

Water management structures will be utilised to divert as much of the surrounding 

surface water catchment away from the void. However, the void will still collect water 

draining from the high wall and from the area of the low wall beneath the lowest 

diversion bank. Diversion banks with a capacity to convey a relevant level of peak runoff 

storm events will be constructed above the low wall to convey and redirect runoff. 

4.3 Actions & Control Measures 

As described in Section 4.2, the action and control measures to manage any impacts of 

the final void will be incorporated into the void design. The detailed Final Void 

Management Plan will include detailed design and specification of the final void and 

associated control measures. Development of the Plan will also include further 

assessment and stakeholder consultation in relation to the potential post-mining land use 

for the void. 




5.0 Mine Closure Plan 

As discussed in Section 1.3, this RLMP provides a preliminary conceptual Mine Closure 

Plan. A detailed Mine Closure Plan will be developed at least five years prior to mine 

closure, however, preliminary design criteria and environmental management techniques 

for mine closure are provided below utilising available information. 

5.1 Objectives 

The key objective of site rehabilitation is to achieve an optimum post-mining land 

capability suitable for supporting a combination of grazing and native habitat land use. 

Detailed rehabilitation objectives and completion criteria, consistent with these 

post-mining land use objectives are listed in Table 4. 

5.2 Post-Mining Land Use Options 

Investigations have been undertaken in relation to a number of post-mining land use 

options within the DA Boundary (GSSE, 2004). Extensive face-to-face consultation was 

undertaken with over 60 near neighbours, regulators and community representatives 

during preparation of the Bengalla SEE. When stakeholders were asked during this 

consultation the majority stated that they would prefer a more natural looking landform 

with dense plantings of native trees and shrubs. This feedback was considered in the 

current selection of the conceptual post-mining land use option. 

The investigations were undertaken to determine feasible land uses on rehabilitated land 

considering land slope, class, water requirements and soil types. The potential land uses 

that were investigated included: cattle grazing, viticulture, industrial estates, commercial 

forestry, and other commercial/community enterprises. These potential land uses were 

then evaluated based on selection criteria such as: 

• Community and stakeholder acceptance; 

• Health and safety considerations; 

• Potential environmental impacts; 

• Regulatory requirements and legal liability; and 

• Contribution to the local economy and employment. 

Although viticulture was assessed and determined to substantially assist in long-term 

final landform stability and minimise noise, dust and odour impacts on near neighbours, 

viticulture as a post-land use option was considered to be an incompatible broad 

community land use which would only moderately satisfy legal and regulatory 

requirements. The investigations found that the physical and chemical characteristics of 

the shaped and rehabilitated overburden would be incompatible with the needs of 




viticulture as a growth medium. Further, significant issues were identified in regards to 

the adequate supply of water resources and drainage on the shaped overburden to 

satisfy the needs of viticulture. As viticulture is a water-reliant industry, viticulture as a 

post-mining option would inevitably be water intensive and reduce water availability in 

the local community. 

Commercial forestry was also assessed as a final land use option at Bengalla and was 

found to minimise environmental impacts associated with water resources, dust, noise 

and heritage, whilst moderately satisfying legal and regulatory requirements. However, 

this option was discounted primarily as the land use does not promote ecologically 

sustainable development, is not a broad community land use and does not encourage 

sustainable employment opportunities for the local community. The investigations also 

highlighted that commercial forestry would not be a compatible and logical land use with 

surrounding industry (i.e. mining operations and ancillary services) and would not 

aesthetically blend with its surroundings. For these reasons, commercial forestry as a 

final land use option at Bengalla was discounted. 

The establishment of an industrial estate or a training centre as a final land use at 

Bengalla was assessed and was generally found to moderately satisfy legal and 

regulatory requirements, minimise environmental impacts, have a broad acceptance by 

the community and would promote sustainable employment opportunities. However, this 

option was primarily discounted due to significant restrictions in site access for power, 

roads and ancillary services to the top of the shaped and rehabilitated overburden 

emplacement areas. Further, the slopes of the rehabilitated overburden areas were also 

found to restrict the areas of appropriate development land due to stability and safety 

requirements. 

Cattle grazing as a final land use at Bengalla was found to satisfy corporate, legal and 

regulatory requirements for mine closure and would be fully compatible with surrounding 

land use and landforms in regards to visual amenity. Cattle grazing was also found to 

have a high level of acceptance from the local community and would maximise the 

likelihood of long-term landform stability. 

The establishment of native bushland at Bengalla post mine closure was also found to 

satisfy corporate, legal and regulatory requirements for mine closure and would be fully 

compatible with surrounding land use and landforms in regards to visual amenity. Native 

bushland would also maximise long-term final landform stability and would minimise 

environmental issues associated with water resources, dust, noise, odour and heritage. 

After consideration of selection criteria and extensive feedback from community 

consultation, a mixture of native bushland and cattle grazing were identified to be the 

most suitable post-mining land uses. Grazing and native bushland regeneration has 




therefore been adopted as the preferred post-mining land use in suitable areas of the 

site, with a focus on linking remnant vegetation with rehabilitation. 

Further assessment and stakeholder consultation in relation to mine closure and 

post-mining land uses will be conducted during preparation of the detailed Mine Closure 

Plan. 

5.3 Mine Infrastructure 

In accordance with the Mining Lease conditions and the current development consent, 

BMC is required to remove all infrastructure, plant equipment and works with no ongoing 

beneficial use after mine closure in 2017. However, it is expected that many 

infrastructure items may be retained at mine closure due to their beneficial use for a 

variety of post-mining land uses. The need for decommissioning of site infrastructure will 

be assessed in detail in consultation with relevant stakeholders during preparation of the 

MOP and detailed Mine Closure Plan. 

As discussed in Section 1.2, if Bengalla seeks and gains additional approval to continue 

mining operations to the west, all the relevant infrastructure will be retained and 

enhanced and maintained in accordance with EP 10.1. 

5.4 Environmental Management 

Ongoing monitoring and management of environmental performance will continue to be 

undertaken for five years after mine closure or until such time as monitoring results 

demonstrate that the site meets the closure criteria. Detailed closure criteria and 

associated monitoring and maintenance programs will be included in the revised Mine 

Closure Plan. Mine closure monitoring will include at least the following: 

• Rehabilitation and closure completion criteria/success indicators; 

• Groundwater; 

• Surface water; and 

• Air quality. 

5.5 Performance Measurement 

The performance of the rehabilitation of the site at mine closure will be monitored in 

accordance with the monitoring programs specified in Table 4. The assessment of the 

monitoring results will enable the confirmation of achievement of the success indicators 

and associated completion criteria. Once the completion criteria have been achieved, as 

demonstrated by monitoring results, application for Mining Lease relinquishment will be 

requested. 




6.0 Stakeholder Consultation 

BMC undertakes regular consultation with its stakeholders on matters relating to 

rehabilitation progress, performance and mine closure. Stakeholders include but are not 

limited to: the Bengalla Mine Community Consultative Committee (BMCCC), local 

residents, regulatory authorities, employees & contractors, Joint Venture partners, local 

industry, universities and schools within the region. 

The MOP provides information for stakeholders, outlining rehabilitation activities 

undertaken, rehabilitation success and progress, and planned rehabilitation strategies 

going forward. 

The AEMR provides an update on rehabilitation progress and the details and success of 

any rehabilitation ameliorative measures undertaken. The AEMR is publicly available on 

Bengalla’s website and copies are made available for the community and the BMCCC. 

This RLMP incorporates feedback from stakeholders in relation to rehabilitation and mine 

closure. Further stakeholder consultation will be undertaken during the development of 

the detailed Mine Closure Plan. 

7.0 Reporting & Review 

The outcomes of rehabilitation and mine closure activities may be reported by the 

following methods: 

• Ongoing consultation with the BMCCC and local landholders as appropriate; 

• Mine closure newsletters and associated consultation with stakeholders; 

• Activities relating to rehabilitation and mine closure are to be reported in the 

Bengalla AEMR; and 

• A five yearly review of this RLMP (and within five years of mine closure). 

Copies of this RLMP and any subsequent revisions will be provided to the DPI following 

approval by DoP. 




8.0 Responsibilities 

Table 5 details management measures and summarises responsibilities. Responsibilities 

may be delegated as required. 

Table 5 

Management Measures and Responsibilities 

Ref Control Measure Responsibility Timing CNA EMS 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

Ensure rehabilitation design meets the 

requirements of the MOP and as outlined in 

Section 3.1. 

Complete rehabilitation in accordance with the 

management techniques of the EMS and as 

described in Section 3.2. 

Undertaken annual inspections of rehabilitation, 

focusing on vegetation and soil parameters 

described in Section 3.2.5. 

Conduct a flora and fauna survey of 

rehabilitation and future mining areas with an 

appropriately qualified ecologist. 

Undertake rehabilitation maintenance techniques 

discussed in Section 3.2.6 and implement 

ameliorative action as required. 

Monitor and review progress against success 

indicators and completion criteria listed in Table 

4. Apply ameliorative measures as necessary. 

Mine Manager Annually EP 5.1 

Mine Manager Annually EP 5.1 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Annually 

Five 

Yearly 

EP 5.1, 

EP 10.2 

EP 5.1, 

EP 10.2 

Annually EP 5.1 

Six 

monthly 

EP 5.1 

7 

Review and update conceptual completion 

criteria based on monitoring results. 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Ongoing EP 5.1 

8 

Undertake further investigation and consultation 

in relation to the post-mining land use at 

Bengalla. 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Five 

Yearly 

EP 5.1 

9 

Provide further detail and planning on the mine 

closure strategy and final void design in next 

revision of the RLMP. 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Five 

Yearly 

EP 5.1 




9.0 References 

• Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council & Minerals Council of 

Australia (2000) Strategic Framework for Mine Closure. 

• Bengalla Mining Company (2006) Bengalla Annual Environmental Management 

Report. 

• Bengalla Mining Company (2006) Bengalla Mining Operations Plan, September 

2006. 

• Department of Planning (1995) Development Consent - Bengalla Coal Mine 

(DA 211/93). 

• Department of Planning (2006) Modification to Development Consent - Bengalla 

Coal Mine (DA 211/93 (M1)). 

• Department of Mineral Resources (1999) Synoptic Plan: Integrated Landscapes for 

Coal Mine Rehabilitation in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales. 

• Department of Primary Industries – Mineral Resources Division (2006) Guidelines to 

the Mining, Rehabilitation and Environmental Management Process. 

• GSSE Environmental (2004) Post Mining Land use Options Report. 

• Hannan Environmental Management (2003) Bengalla Mine Closure Strategy and 

Plan. 

• HLA Envirosciences (1993) Environmental Impact Statement for Bengalla Open Cut 

Coal Mine. 

• Hansen Consulting (2006) Bengalla Mining Company, Modifications to Mining 

Operations, Statement of Environmental Effects. 

• Nichols, O.G (2004) Development of rehabilitation criteria for native ecosystem 

establishment on coal mine in the Hunter Valley. Australian Coal Association 

Research Program Project C13048. 


APPENDIX A 

REGULATORY CORRESPONDENCE

APPENDIX B 

RELEVANT CNA EMS PROCEDURES

Environmental procedure EP 5.1 

EP 5.1 

REHABILITATION 

1. Purpose 

To ensure that: 

• vegetation removal ahead of mining is conducted in accordance with a 

Ground Disturbance Permit (except for Bengalla) and managed to 

minimise soil erosion; 

• topsoil is correctly stripped, handled, stockpiled and reused; 

• disturbed areas are rehabilitated progressively in compliance with DMR 

requirements and are managed to ensure their success. 

2. Scope 

This Procedure applies to all CNA managed mines, infrastructure and any 

associated activity directly managed by CNA. 

3. Definitions 

DMR Compliance 

MOP 

Optimum Soil 

Moisture 

Operation meets requirements of the accepted MOP and 

Lease Conditions 

Mining Operations Plan 

The moisture content range where 

• soil compaction does not occur due to working of 

moist clays and 

• breakdown of soil structure does not occur due to 

insufficient moisture in the soil 

4. Actions 

4.1 Preparations for Vegetation Removal and Soil Stripping 

The area to be stripped, including roads and other infrastructure, will be 

determined by the Mine Planning Department, pegged and clearly marked 

by the Mine Surveyor or Civil Works Department prior to any work 

commencing. 

Prior to vegetation removal and soil stripping: 

• a Ground Disturbance Permit must be obtained (except at Bengalla) from 

Environmental Services by the relevant job coordinator or CNA person 

title 

EP 5.1 


date issued 

3/8/04 

revision status 

1.3 

date reviewed 

20/1/05 

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page 

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responsible for the project. At Bengalla, prior consultation with the 

Environmental Section is required before disturbance; 

• a visual inspection will be conducted for Aboriginal artifacts. Any 

artifacts found will be managed in accordance with the relevant 

procedures; 

• a visual flora and fauna inspection will be conducted to monitor for 

threatened species and to identify fauna that might require relocation 

prior to clearing. Environmental Services will be notified of any issues 

arising from the inspection; 

• a visual assessment of the vegetation will be conducted to identify 

available seed and timber resources to be collected or removed; 

• an assessment will be made of the depth, volume and characteristics of 

the topsoil to be removed; 

• diversion banks and drains will be constructed to prevent soil erosion as 

required by CNA’s erosion and sediment control management plan; 

• contractors undertaking vegetation removal, topsoil stripping and 

overburden removal will be briefed on their environmental 

responsibilities. 

4.2 Vegetation Removal 

Vegetation, not required for other purposes, and rocks will be pushed into 

windrows located away from any standing trees. 

All grass will be left to be recovered with the topsoil. 

Trees and logs will be cut to a size manageable by the shovel. Following 

topsoil removal and blasting, this material will be pushed on to the pre-strip 

area for removal with the overburden. 

A watch will be maintained for Aboriginal objects during the clearing and 

soil removal operations. If any objects are encountered, clearing will cease 

in that area and the Manager Environmental Services will be notified. 

4.3 Soil Stripping 

Soil stripping will be to be undertaken in accordance with the Mining 

Operations Plan. 

Topsoil will be stripped by bulldozer or scraper to the depth determined by 

the MOP or until subsoil is observed by the plant operator or supervisor. 

Guidance on stripping depth will be sought from the Specialist, 

Rehabilitation and Landcare if there is any uncertainty. 

Topsoil stripping will not be undertaken in windy conditions that will cause 

excessive dust to be generated (see EP 8.2 Dust Management, Mobile 

Equipment). 

The water content of the soil to be stripped is an important consideration: 

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date reviewed 

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• whenever possible, topsoil will be stripped while it is reasonably moist to 

avoid dust or the loss of soil structure; 

• during dry conditions topsoil should be watered to prevent dust 

generation; 

• topsoil must not be stripped when it is wet, as this can result in the loss of 

soil structure and death of micro-organisms. 

Machinery movement over soil should be kept to a minimum during 

stripping operations to avoid compaction and loss of soil structure. Trucks 

and scrapers transporting soil must use designated roads. 

Where possible, soil will be transferred directly to and respread over shaped 

areas, eliminating the need for storage and rehandling. 

Stripped areas will be inspected to ensure that all soil usable for revegetation 

has been removed. 

4.4 Soil Stockpiling 

Soil stockpiles are to be located in designated areas and constructed to a 

shape and depth as specified in the relevant MOP. 

The Mine Surveyor or a contract surveyor engaged by Civil Works 

Department will peg out and sign off on the locations and volumes of soil 

stockpiles and record surface levels for the base of each stockpile. This 

information will be stored in the Survey computer system and forwarded to 

Environmental Services. 

Soil stockpiles should be located: 

• as close as practicable and readily accessible to respreading areas; 

• where they will not interfere with present and future mining and ancillary 

operations; 

• at least 10m from trees or watercourses; 

• in areas that will allow free drainage and minimal soil erosion; 

4.5 Maintenance of Soil Stockpiles 

The Environmental Specialist Rehabilitation and Landcare will maintain a 

Topsoils Stockpile Register. 

The register will contain annual data on the locations and volumes of all soil 

stockpiles, the formation new stockpiles and the removal of soil from 

stockpiles for respreading. 

All topsoil stockpiles are to be signposted. 

Stockpiles that will not be used for longer than three (3) months will be 

shaped, fertilised and revegetated with a cover crop specified by the 

Environmental Specialist Rehabilitation and Landcare to provide initial 

stability, maintain soil viability and minimise erosion. 

title 

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date issued 

3/8/04 


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date reviewed 

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Regular inspections will be conducted for weed and erosion control. 

4.6 Spoil dumping 

Spoil dumping will be carried out in accordance with the Mining Operations 

Plan (MOP). In particular: 

• specifications for dumping profiles will be determined by the mine 

planning department; 

• dumping locations will be pegged by the Mine Surveyor; 

• bulk shaping, including the pushing down of benches and the removal of 

rock greater than 50cm in diameter, will be conducted in a manner that 

will minimise the need for final trimming; 

• waste materials being buried in the pit, such as reject coal fines, acid 

bearing spoil, waste tyres and vegetation will be buried in accordance 

with the requirements for each type of material. 

Spoil dumps will be inspected regularly by the Operation Supervisor and the 

Site Environmental Coordinator to ensure that they conform to these 

requirements. 

Shaped spoil dumps will be trimmed to achieve the required slopes as 

specified in the relevant MOP. 

Contours will be constructed where required and drainage lines will 

conform to all requirements to discharge water and minimise erosion. 

The final surface will be rock raked to remove rocks greater than 20cm in 

diameter. Waste rock will be dumped into a designated area of the pit. 

Shaped spoil dumps will be inspected and approved by the Environmental 

Specialist Rehabilitation and Landcare prior to surface preparation for 

topsoiling. 

4.7 Surface Preparation 

The area to be revegetated will be surveyed to ensure that the land surface 

generally conforms to Plan No. 5 of the relevant MOP. 

Gypsum will be applied at a rate of 5 to 10 tonnes per hectare to 

revegetation areas unless otherwise specified by Environmental Specialist 

Rehabilitation and Landcare. 

4.8 Soil Re-spreading 

Topsoil, subsoil or overburden can be used as the growing medium 

depending on the intended final use and land capability: 

• topsoil or an appropriate subsoil should be used as top dressing for 

pasture; 

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• suitable overburden can be used for top dressing where trees and shrubs 

are to be planted and/or when suitable topsoil is not available. 

Topsoil or designated subsoil will normally be spread to a depth of 100mm 

on those areas to be seeded with grass unless specified otherwise by the 

Environmental Specialist Rehabilitation and Landcare. 

Topsoil should be at its optimum moisture content when it is spread. 

Topsoil will not be spread when it is: 

• excessively wet as this will cause compaction; or 

• dry as this could cause the generation of excessive dust. 

All unnecessary movement of machinery over respread soil will be avoided. 

Soil removed from stockpiles will be recorded in the Soils Register. 

Soil sampling and testing should be conducted to determine the properties of 

the soil and the requirements for fertiliser or other soil additives. 

4.9 Ploughing 

The top dressing areas should be ploughed or tined along the contour prior 

to revegetation. 

Rocks greater than 20cm in diameter must be removed from the surface of 

areas to be sown to pasture. 

4.10 Drainage Works 

Drainage works will be incorporated into the final landform to slow and 

direct water flow and minimise erosion on rehabilitated areas in accordance 

with the erosion and sediment control management plan. 

Drainage works will include channels and banks and sediment control 

structures to prevent sediments leaving the site and will be constructed in 

accordance with EP7.1 Water Management. 

4.11 Revegetation 

Revegetation will be undertaken progressively and as soon as practicable 

after the completion of surface preparation, ideally when the soil is moist 

and there is a likelihood of follow up rain. 

Revegetation areas will be pegged or fenced and closed to all equipment and 

vehicles not involved with the revegetation process. 

Generally, pasture areas and trees and shrub areas will be sown separately, 

in accordance with the rehabilitation management plan. 

Tree seeding will generally be carried out during autumn when germination 

is usually more successful. The tree seed should be mixed with a bulking 

agent mixture to facilitate broadcasting. Fertiliser must not be used as a 

bulking agent. 

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Tree and shrub species will be planted in accordance with established 

silviculture practices. Planting may be in the form: 

• seedlings supplied as “Forestry” size tubestock; or 

• seeding with native tree seed in suitable areas. 

Tube stock should be planted in rip lines at approximately 5m spacing and 

in an irregular pattern along the contour to achieve as natural a result as 

possible. 

A species mix suitable for the area and seed application rates are included in 

Attachment EP5.1.1. 

4.12 Access 

All access is restricted on rehabilitated areas except for rehabilitation 

maintenance purposes and fire control. 

Rehabilitated areas will be fenced off once they are able to withstand 

grazing pressure. Tree and shrub plantings must be fenced if grazing is 

planned in adjacent pastures. 

4.13 Maintenance 

Rehabilitated areas will be inspected regularly to assess plant growth and 

determine the need for weed control, soil conservation work and general 

maintenance. 

An annual maintenance program will be conducted for up to 5 years after 

the initial sowing. This will include fertiliser application. 

4.14 Weed Control 

Inspections for weeds are generally undertaken every 6 months in relevant 

areas. If weed control requires chemical spraying, the chemicals to be used 

must be approved and the MSDS obtained prior to spraying. The weed 

contractor must provide proof of competency and experience. 

Weeds should be sprayed during active growth for effective control. 

The success of spraying will be assessed by visual inspections two weeks 

after spraying. Follow up spraying may be required if control is not 

achieved with the first application. 

A final inspection is to be carried out 6 months after spraying to ensure that 

weeds have been destroyed and re-infestation has not occurred. 

4.15 Erosion Control 

Measures to reduce soil erosion on areas being stripped and rehabilitated 

areas may include: 

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• reducing the flow rate of water across the ground, particularly on 

exposed surfaces and in areas where water congregates; 

• constructing catch drains, contour ploughing and the placement of hay 

bales; 

• regrading gullies to a stable land form; 

• the placement of coarse material; and 

• revegetation. 

Rehabilitated areas, prestripping areas and other areas that are prone to 

erosion will be inspected regularly. Any erosion identified will be treated 

promptly to minimise damage to the land and protect the quality of water on 

the site (see EP7.1 Water Management). 

4.16 Dust Control 

If it becomes necessary to use the water cart or water sprays to control dust 

prior to topsoil stripping, on topsoil stockpiles or rehabilitated areas, clean 

water (ie: non-saline water) must be used. The use of saline water may 

degrade soil quality and kill vegetation (see EP8.2 Dust Management, 

Mobile Equipment). 

4.17 Monitoring and Reporting 

A qualified surveyor will survey all rehabilitated areas. This information 

will be used to compile the annual rehabilitation report to the DMR and 

CNA’s internal reporting requirements. 

An annual rehabilitation audit is undertaken to ensure all relevant 

management plans and Rio Tinto Standards are achieved. 

Annual inspections of rehabilitated areas will be carried out in conjunction 

with the DMR and DLWC to determine progress against government 

completion criteria. The Environmental Specialist Rehabilitation & 

Landcare will address any actions coming out of these inspections. 

5. Responsibilities 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Rehabilitation & 

Landcare 

• Overview CNA’s timber clearing, topsoil stripping 

and rehabilitation program. 

• Provide advice where required on topsoil stripping, 

topsoil management and rehabilitation 

• Conduct annual management audits of topsoil 

stockpiles and rehabilitated areas 

• Maintain a topsoil stockpile register 

• Preparation of DMR annual rehabilitation reports 

and CNA rehabilitation reports 

• Facilitate annual DMR / DLWC inspections and 

address any resultant actions 

title 

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date issued 

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Site Mine Planners 

Civil Works 

Department 

Mining Department 

• Prepare MOPs in accordance with DMR 

requirements 

• Ensure mine rehabilitation plans are consistent with 

the relevant MOP 

• Supervise contract rehabilitation works to meet MOP 

and EMS requirements 

• Obtain Ground Disturbance Permit prior to 

disturbing undisturbed ground 

• Excavate and place overburden in accordance with 

mine plans 

• Obtain Ground Disturbance Permit prior to 

disturbing undisturbed ground 

6. References 

Ground disturbance permit 

Attachment EP5.1.1: Species mix and seed application rates for mine 

rehabilitation 

Revisions 

Number Date Description of Change 

1 12/9/2003 First Release 

2 3/8/04 Bengalla ground disturbance process defined 

3 20/1/05 Weed inspection frequency defined 

title 

EP 5.1 

date issued 

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1.3 

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Printed documents are uncontrolled. Check the Coal & Allied Intranet for the latest version of this document.


EP 2.1 

CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT 

1. Purpose 

To ensure that all cultural heritage sites, objects and places on CNA owned 

land are identified and properly managed and protected. 

2. Scope 

This procedure applies to the identification and management of all European 

and Indigenous Cultural Heritage matters associated with any activity 

directly managed by CNA. 


Aboriginal object: 

Aboriginal place: 

Aboriginal heritage 

site: 

Cultural Heritage: 

European heritage 

site: 

Mining Operations: 

Relic: 

Any deposit, object or material evidence (not being a 

handicraft made for sale) relating to the Aboriginal 

habitation of the area that comprises NSW, being habitation 

before or concurrent with (or both) the occupation of that 

area by persons of non-Aboriginal extraction, and includes 

Aboriginal remains. (National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974) 

Means any place declared to be an Aboriginal place under 

Section 84 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. 

Refers to an area containing identified Aboriginal objects, 

that is not declared to be an Aboriginal place under the 

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. 

Aboriginal and European matters of archaeological and/or 

heritage significance, including relics, sites, objects & places 

Refers to any area containing relics of European origin. 

Includes exploration, associated infrastructure, clearing and 

other mining related activities. 

Any deposit, object or material evidence which relates to the 

settlement of the area that comprises New South Wales, not 

being Aboriginal settlement, and is 50 or more years old 

(Heritage Act 1977). 

title 

EP 2.1 

Cultural Heritage Management 

date issued 

3/8/04 


1.4 

date reviewed 

10/3/05 


page 

1 of 5


4. Actions 

4.1 Ground Disturbance Permit 

Accessing areas not previously disturbed (excluding Bengalla) requires a 

Ground Disturbance Permit, which is available from the CNA Intranet. This 

form requires information such as; project description, duration, Project Coordinator, 

archaeology site status, flora & fauna and other EIS restrictions. 

This information must be entered and signed off by an Environmental 

Services representative and recorded on file. Once a permit has been granted 

the boundary of the area must be pegged and labelled by a qualified 

surveyor. At Bengalla Mine, ground disturbance is only permitted after 

consultation with the Environmental Section. 

4.2 Finding Relics or Aboriginal Objects 

Relevant personnel will receive cultural heritage training, which will assist 

in the identification of potential relics and Aboriginal objects, and provide 

an appreciation of local Indigenous culture. Environmental Services will be 

responsible for ensuring this training occurs. 

Mining activities in an area will ceased immediately if any materials are 

found that are suspected of: 

• indicating Aboriginal occupation; 

• being greater than 50 years old; 

• being human remains, including in areas covered by a Consent to 

Destroy or excavation permit. 

In the event of the above: 

• The Site Environmental Coordinator or an Environmental Services 

representative will be contacted immediately. 

• Where human remains are encountered the Environmental Services 

representative will arrange for the site General Manager to contact the 

police. 

• An Environmental Services Specialist will notify NPWS and local 

Aboriginal Groups if human remains are determined to be of Aboriginal 

origin. 

• Aboriginal representatives will be present during all investigations of 

Aboriginal human remains. 

• An archaeologist will be contacted to assess the site. If the site is found 

to contain relics or Aboriginal objects, the site must be managed in 

accordance with Section 4.4. 

4.3 Archaeological Surveys 

Archaeological surveys will be carried out in advance of mining operations, 

in consultation with NPWS and relevant Aboriginal groups, organised by 

title 

EP 2.1 


date issued 

3/8/04 


1.4 

date reviewed 

10/3/05 


page 

2 of 5


Environmental Services. A current listing of relevant Aboriginal groups is to 

be received from NPWS prior to commencing any work. 

If relics or Aboriginal objects are found, during mining or ancillary 

operations, the action taken will depend on the significance of the site. Sites 

will be managed in accordance with Section 4.4. 

4.4 Site Significance and Management 

4.4.1 Aboriginal Heritage Sites 

During archaeological surveys an archaeologist will identify Aboriginal 

Heritage Sites as either significant or less significant. Such sites will be 

managed as follows: 

Less Significant Sites 

If an Aboriginal heritage site is determined to be less significant by the 

Archaeologist who conducted the survey, an application for a Section 90 

‘Consent to Destroy’ will be lodged with the NPWS. The Cultural Heritage 

Reports, along with letters of cultural significance will be included with the 

application. 

Significant Sites 

If significant Aboriginal heritage sites are found, an application for a 

Section 87, Preliminary Research Permit may be lodged if recommended by 

the Archaeologist, Indigenous groups and NPWS. 

The application must be accompanied by a letter from the relevant 

Indigenous groups outlining their opinion on the site and the research design 

by the Consultant Archaeologist. 

On receipt of the Preliminary Research Permit, Consultant Archaeologists, 

along with representatives from each Indigenous group invited to attend, 

will commence fieldwork. 

On completion of the fieldwork, the Consultant Archaeologists report on the 

site and its significance will be submitted to NPWS. 

If Consultant Archaeologists, the Indigenous community and NPWS 

consider the site to be highly significant, the Mine will consult with NPWS 

and local Aboriginal groups to discuss mitigative options. 

NPWS Determination 

Processing of the research report by NPWS may take up to 12 weeks. 

After processing of the Research report by NPWS, an application for a 

Section 90 ‘Consent to Destroy’ with or without salvage, based on the 

determination by NPWS, may be lodged. 

If, through the consultation process, it is determined that the site must be 

conserved, the Mine will do so in accordance with an “Aboriginal Heritage 

Management Plan” which will include any requirements of the determining 

authority. 

title 

EP 2.1 


date issued 

3/8/04 


1.4 

date reviewed 

10/3/05 


page 

3 of 5


Where possible, all known archaeological sites within the mining area are to 

be salvaged by Indigenous groups prior to land disturbance. 

4.4.2 European Heritage Sites 

European heritage sites determined to be of State significance will be listed 

on the State Heritage Register. Approval will be sought under s60 of the 

NSW Heritage Act, 1977 for any disturbance of relics determined to be of 

state significance. 

If any European heritage site identified within the mining lease is listed on 

or listed for inclusion on the Register of the National Estate, the Australian 

Heritage Commission must be contacted for advice on its management. 

4.5 Site Management 

4.5.1 Aboriginal Heritage Sites 

All Aboriginal heritage sites and places will be recorded on the CNA 

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Database. Maps showing the location of these 

sites are available on CNA’s intranet. 

All sites within the mine project area which are to be conserved will be 

fenced and signposted. Mine personnel and contractors will be made aware 

of these heritage sites and directed not to enter them without Environmental 

Services’ approval. 

4.4.2 European Heritage Sites 

All identified European heritage sites will be recorded on the CNA 

European Cultural Heritage Database. Maps showing the location of these 

sites are available on CNA’s intranet. 

European heritage sites are not to be disturbed or modified in any way 

without approval from Manager Environmental Services. 


Manager Aboriginal 

Affairs 

Manager Project 

Approvals 

title 

EP 2.1 


• Organise Archaeological surveys and excavations 

and any permits or consents relating to cultural 

heritage 

• Consult with Aboriginal groups, Archeologists and 

Government Bodies 

• Coordinate cultural heritage training programs 

• Manage the identification and fencing of heritage 

sites 

• Organise archaeological surveys that are part of 

environmental impact assessment projects 

• Manage the Ground Disturbance Permit system 

• Maintain the heritage site GIS (MapInfo) database 

and communicate the locations of sites to mine 

date issued 

3/8/04 


1.4 

date reviewed 

10/3/05 


page 

4 of 5


Bengalla 

Environmental 

Specialist 

personnel through personal communication and via 

heritage site maps on the intranet 

• Process and approve Ground Disturbance Permits 

• Review and approve disturbance of undisturbed 

ground 

6. Attachments 

None 

7. References 

NSW Legislation 

Heritage Act, 1977 

National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974 

Maps 

Archaeological Site Locations 

Checklists and Forms 

Ground Disturbance Permit 

Revisions 


1.1 15/9/03 Procedure released 

1.2 3/8/04 Ground disturbance process at Bengalla defined 

1.3 9/3/05 Responsibilities updated in line with changed corporate 

structure 

1.4 10/3/05 Minor correction to responsibilities 

title 

EP 2.1 


date issued 

3/8/04 


1.4 

date reviewed 

10/3/05 


page 

5 of 5

Environmental procedure EP10.2 

EP10.2 

FLORA AND FAUNA 

1. Purpose 

To ensure the protection and management of any significant flora and fauna 

communities within the mine area. 

2. Scope 

This Procedure applies to all CNA managed mines, infrastructure and any 

associated activity. 


Threatened flora 

and fauna. 

Those species contained within Schedules 1 and 2 of the 

Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 or listed under 

the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation 

Act, 1999. 

4. Actions 

4.1 Pre-Development & Mining Approvals 

Flora and fauna impact assessments will be undertaken for all new mining 

and development areas during the pre-feasibility and development planning 

phases. The Manager Project Approvals / BMC Environmental Specialist 

will ensure these assessments are undertaken by suitably qualified personnel 

and: 

• assess the potential impacts to habitats and fauna populations during the 

life of mining; 

• determine the presence of any rare or threatened flora or fauna species or 

their habitats; 

• propose measures to mitigate the impacts of mining; and 

• be conducted to satisfy the Department of Environment and 

Conservation (DEC) or consent authority’s requirements. 

The Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water / BMC 

Environmental Specialist will ensure that vegetation corridors are included 

in the mining and rehabilitation plans to allow for the movement of fauna 

between substantive areas of habitat on site and in surrounding forest and 

woodland areas. Corridors must: 

title 

EP10.2 

Flora and Fauna 

date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

1 of 8


• take account of the needs of locally identified flora and fauna that would 

be expected to be found in the region; 

• take account of the Department of Mineral Resources Synoptic Plan for 

the Hunter Valley; 

• have a minimum width of 20 m. 

All personnel will be trained via toolbox talks to have a basic understanding 

of flora and fauna management. 

4.2 Operations 

4.2.1 Pre Clearing 

Areas in the Mine Lease that are known to contain threatened flora or fauna 

are recorded in a GIS database that is maintained by Environmental 

Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water / BMC Environmental Specialist. 

Habitat trees ahead of mining will be identified and clearly marked by a 

suitably qualified person appointed by Environmental Specialist – 

Rehabilitation & Water / BMC Environmental Specialist and recorded in the 

GIS database. 

In relevant areas, habitat trees will be labelled with the letter “H” and/or 

orange cow tags with a reference number on the trunk of the tree at 

approximately 1.5m above the ground. Prior to clearing, habitat trees must 

be inspected by an appropriately qualified person appointed by 

Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water / BMC Environmental 

Specialist. 

• If necessary, fauna will be removed and relocated to the nearest 

appropriate vegetation community which is to be undertaken by a 

suitably qualified person appointed by Environmental Specialist – 

Rehabilitation & Water / BMC Environmental Specialist. 

• Trees that have been identified as suitable for providing a native seed 

source will be marked with a purple cow tag and labelled with an 

identification number by a suitably qualified person appointed by 

Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water / BMC 

Environmental Specialist. These trees will also be recorded in the GIS 

database. Prior to, and during clearing, available seed from these trees 

should be obtained. 

Accessing areas not previously disturbed requires the Project Manager to 

complete a Ground Disturbance Permit which is available from the CNA 

Intranet. This form requires information such as; project description and 

area, duration, Project Coordinator, archaeological site status, flora & fauna 

and other EIS restrictions. This information must be entered and signed off 

by an Environmental Services representative and recorded on file. Once a 

permit has been granted, the Project Manager must ensure that the boundary 

of the area is pegged and labelled by a qualified surveyor. At Bengalla 

title 

EP10.2 


date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

2 of 8


Mine, ground disturbance is only permitted after consultation with the 

Environmental Section (this is the same at HVO and MTW). 

The Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water / BMC 

Environmental Specialist will co-ordinate the collection of seed where 

practical to provide seed for rehabilitation work. 

Wherever possible surface rocks, logs and fallen limbs will be relocated to 

rehabilitation areas or areas that are not to be disturbed by mining activities 

where there is a particular need to establish habitat. 

Where an area has been designated for biodiversity habitat, rocks less than 

approximately 30cm in diameter may be left in piles of approximately 2 

metres x 2 metres within rehabilitation areas to provide habitat for reptiles 

as advised by Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & Water. 

4.2.2 Clearing 

It is the responsibility of the Project Manager to ensure that wherever 

possible, timber clearing is undertaken outside of the breeding periods of 

threatened fauna known to occur at the site, outlined in attachment ATT 

10.2.1 Threatened Species identified on CNA mine sites. General breeding 

periods for each site include; 

HVO 

WML 

BMC / MTO 

June to December 

May to December 

No threatened species identified on site 

In cases where clearing must occur within these periods a pre-clearing 

survey must be undertaken and is to be co-ordinated by the Environmental 

Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer. 

Cleared timber is required to be felled and stockpiled until the area is 

required for topsoil stripping. This will minimise erosion and sediment 

control and dust generation issues. Topsoil stripping will be undertaken in 

accordance with procedure EP 5.1 Rehabilitation. 

Any fauna captured during clearing must be relocated to a suitable 

vegetation community. Injured fauna must be treated by a wildlife officer 

or vet. The Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer will 

assist in this matter. 

Where practical, appropriate intact trunks with hollows shall be moved to 

established rehabilitation or non-disturbance areas to be used as logs for 

habitat as directed by the Environmental Specialist – Rehabilitation & 

Water / BMC Environmental Specialist. 

Clearing activities must be stopped if suspected threatened habitats or flora 

or fauna species are encountered during clearing: 

title 

EP10.2 


date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

3 of 8


• the Site Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer must 

be contacted immediately and an investigation carried out; and 

• if the investigation confirms that a threatened habitat or species is 

present, the Manager Project Approvals / BMC Environmental Specialist 

must contact the relevant Government authorities. 

4.3 General 

Vehicles, plant and personnel must keep clear of areas of designated habitat 

and rehabilitation areas unless access is approved by the Manager Project 

Approvals / BMC Environmental Specialist. 

The Manager Project Approvals / BMC Environmental Specialist will coordinate 

flora and fauna surveys annually at HVO and MTW and every 5 

years at BMC. Surveys will be: 

• in regeneration areas, conservation areas, rehabilitation and immediately 

ahead of mining; and 

• conducted by a suitably qualified ecologist. 

Rehabilitation areas must be monitored in accordance with procedure EP 5.1 

Rehabilitation. 

The annual surveys will monitor the progress of the performance or 

revegetation and rehabilitation programs and will provide recommendations 

for improvements to achieve the site objectives. Parameters to be monitored 

may include: 

• Density of vegetation, fauna and fauna habitat; 

• Diversity of flora; 

• Age/maturity of flora; 

• Vegetation health; 

• Disturbance; and 

• Ecosystem function. 

Vegetation must be encouraged around dams, non-mining areas and areas 

not proposed to be mined to provide habitat for amphibians and bats. 

4.3.1 Weed Control 

A weed inspection will be generally be undertaken every 6 months in 

relevant areas, or as required, to determine whether weed eradication is 

necessary. The Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer 

will co-ordinate the weed inspection within the Mining Lease and the 

Property Landcare Specialist / BMC Environmental Officer will co-ordinate 

the weed inspection outside of the Mining Lease. 

If the results from inspections indicate that weeds occupy 20% of the 

ground cover, spraying or other treatment must be arranged by the 

Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer. 

title 

EP10.2 


date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

4 of 8


If noxious weeds as declared by the Upper Hunter Weeds Authority are 

observed, spraying must be arranged as soon as practical by the 

Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC Environmental Officer 

If spraying is required: 

• the chemicals to be used on-site must be approved and the MSDS 

obtained prior to spraying; 

• the weed contractor must provide proof of competency and be inducted 

on site; 

• records of area sprayed, the product used, dilution rates, weather 

conditions and other criteria as required under the Pesticides Act 1999 

must be kept; and 

• weeds must be sprayed during active growth. 

The success of spraying should be assessed by visual inspections 

approximately two weeks after spraying. A final inspection is to be carried 

out six months after spraying to ensure that weeds have been destroyed and 

re-infestation has not occurred. Follow up seeding should occur within 3 

months after spraying. 

Areas where weed control has been conducted are recoded in a GIS 

Database which is maintained by the Environmental Co-ordinator / BMC 

Environmental Officer. 

BMC will undertake weed control as per the Bengalla Mine Weed 

Management Plan. 

4.3.2 Pest Control 

Sitings of feral animals must be reported to the Environmental Co-ordinator 

/ BMC Environmental Specialist in areas within the mining lease or the 

Property Landcare Specialist / BMC Environmental Specialist in areas 

outside the mining lease. The appropriate Specialist will then undertake 

eradication as necessary. 


Project Manager 

Manager – Project 

Approvals / BMC 

Environmental 

Specialist 

title 

EP10.2 


• Obtain approved ground disturbance permit prior to 

disturbing any ground. 

• Ensure area to be disturbed is pegged and labelled 

prior to disturbing any ground. 

• Ensure that wherever possible clearing is undertaken 

outside breeding periods for threatened species. 

• Ensure impact assessments are undertaken for all 

new mining and development areas to determine if 

rare or endangered species or habitat present on site. 

• Contact the relevant government authorities, 

date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

5 of 8


Environmental 

Specialist – 

Rehabilitation & 

Water / BMC 

Environmental 

Specialist 

Site Environmental 

Co-ordinator / BMC 

Environmental 

Officer 

Property Landcare 

Specialist 

MRU Managers 

All personnel and 

contractors 

including NPWS, if rare or endangered species or 

habitat is encountered. Include vegetation corridors 

in the mining and rehabilitation plans. 

• Organise for identification and marking of habitat 

trees ahead of mining. 

• Co-ordinate annual flora & fauna surveys. 

• Facilitate the GDP Process (not applicable at BMC). 

• Coordinate the collection of seed from areas to be 

cleared where appropriate trees are identified. 

• Organise for the salvage and use of timber for habitat 

as required. 

• Coordinate rehabilitation 

• Organise pre-clearance surveys as required. 

• Coordinate the relocation of fauna as required. 

• Investigate reports of disturbance of threatened flora 

or fauna. 

• Coordinate rehabilitation maintenance 

• Maintain the GIS database. 

• Undertake annual weed survey within the mining 

lease. 

• Undertake feral animal eradication within the mining 

lease as required. 

• Undertake annual weed survey outside of the mining 

lease. 

• Undertake feral animal eradication outside of the 

mining lease as required. 

• Ensure all staff and contractors receive tool box talks 

providing an understanding of flora and fauna 

management 

• Report the sighting of any suspected rare or 

endangered species to the Site Environmental 

Co-ordinator/Officer. 

• Report sightings of feral animals within the mining 

lease to the Environmental Co-ordinator or outside 

to mining lease to the Property Landcare Specialist 

or BMC Environmental Specialist at Bengalla. 

6. Attachments 

ATT 10.2.1 Threatened Species Identified on CNA mine sites 

7. References 

Environmental Procedures 

• EP 5.1 Rehabilitation 

title 

EP10.2 


date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

6 of 8


Environmental Standards 

• ES 10 Land Management 

• Rio Tinto Environment Standard - Land-Use Stewardship 

Development Consents and associated management plans 

Hunter Valley Operations Documents 

• Hunter Valley South Pit Modification DA 114-12-98 (Schedule 2. 

Condition 3.4) 

• HVO Riverview and Cheshunt Pits Flora and Fauna Management 

Plan (DA 114-12-98) 

• HVO Riverview and Cheshunt Pits Land Management Plan (2001) 

• HVO Riverview and Cheshunt Pits Landscape Management Plan (2001) 

• HVO Riverview and Cheshunt Pits Soil Stripping Management Plan 

(DA 114-12-98) 

• West Pit Consolidated Consent DA 450-10-2003:(Schedule 4. 

Conditions 30-36) 

Mount Thorley/Warkworth Operations Documents 

• Warkworth Extension Consent DA 300-9-2002-i (Schedule 4, 

Conditions 1-18) 

• Warkworth Extension Flora & Fauna Management Plan (2003) 

Bengalla Documents 

• Bengalla Mine Weed Management Plan 

• Bengalla Mining Company Weed Pocket Guide 

• Hunter River Weed Management Plan: Bengalla and Mount Arthur Coal 

(2005) 

Legislation 

• Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 

• National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974 

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 

• Pesticides Act 1999 

title 

date issued 


date reviewed 

page 

EP10.2 


10/3/06 

1.1 

7 of 8 

Printed documents are uncontrolled. Check the Coal & Allied Intranet for the latest version of this document.


Revisions 


Draft 1 21/10/2005 Revision of draft document 

1.1 10/03/2006 Approved for release 

title 

EP10.2 


date issued 

10/3/06 


1.1 

date reviewed 


page 

8 of 8

APPENDIX C 

TYPICAL REVEGETATION SPECIES MIX

Table 6 

Indicative Vegetation Species Directly Seeded at Bengalla 

Pastures Mix / Tree Varieties 

Seeding Rate (kg / ha) 

Japanese millet or Shirrohie millet 

15 (summer crop) 

Pioneer Rhodes Grass 10 

Green Panic 3 

Hulled couch grass 8 

Kikuya 4 

Paspalum 4 

Wimmera rye grass 5 

Haifa white clover 5 

Seaton Park sub-clover 6 

Sephi barrel medic 3 

Aurora lucerne 4 

Coolabah oats 

10 (winter crop) 

Inoculatated legumes 18 

Total Pasture Species Rate 80-85 

Tree Varieties 

Curracubah (Acacia concurrens) 0.3 

Green wattle (Acacia decurrens) 0.5 

Sickle wattle (Acacia falcata) 0.3 

Fern leaf wattle (Acacia filicifolia) 0.3 

Hickory wattle (Acacia implexa) 0.4 

Coobah wattle (Acacia salicina) 0.5 

White box (Eucalyptus albens) 0.2 

River red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) 0.2 

Lemon scented gum (Eucalyptus citriodora) 0.2 

Sugar gum (Eucalyptus cladocalyx) 0.1 

Narrow leaf iron bark (Eucalyptus crebra) 0.3 

Apple tree (Angophora floribunda) 0.3 

Spotted gum (Eucalyptus maculata) 0.5 

Yellow box (Eucalyptus melliodora) 0.3 

Coolabah (Eucalyptus microtheca) 0.2 

Coastal grey gum (Eucalyptus moluccana) 0.2 

Grey gum (Eucalyptus punctata) 0.3 

Forest red gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) 0.4 

Total Native Tree Seeding Rate 5.3

Bengalla Mining Company Pty Limited - Rio Tinto Coal Australia

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