Annual Environmental Management Report Boggabri Coal Pty Limited

Transcription

1 Annual Environmental Management Report Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Name of Mine Mining Titles/Leases MOP Amendment E Commencement Date Boggabri Coal Mine CL December 211 MOP Completion Date 31 December 213 AEMR Commencement Date 1 February 211 AEMR Completion Date 31 January 212 Name of Leaseholder Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Name of Mine Operator Downer EDI Mining Pty Ltd Reporting Officer Mike Ryan Title General Manager Signature Date 31 March 212

2 Author: Joe Rennick Reviewer: Mike Ryan Approved by: Mike Ryan Signed:... Date: 31 March 212 Distribution: 1 x Department of Primary Industry Forests, 1 x Department of Primary Industry Minerals and Petroleum, 1 x Department of Primary Industry Agriculture, 1 x Department of Water and Energy, 1 x Office of Environment and Heritage, 1 x Department of Planning & Infrastructure, 1 x Narrabri Shire Council, 1 x Gunnedah Shire Council, Boggabri Coal Community Consultative Committee x 1. 2

3 Glossary Colliery holding A colliery holding registered under the Mining Act, 1992 for coal mining operations. Contamination of land As defined in the Contaminated Land Management Act (1997) as meaning the presence in or under the land of a substance at a concentration above the concentration at which the substance is normally present in, on or under (respectively) land in the same locality, being a presence that presents a risk of harm to human health or any other aspect of the environment. Disturbed area The surface area disturbed during mining or any mining purpose. It includes all infrastructure facilities, emplacement area, residue disposal area, road and rail access, soil stockpile area, product stockpile area, water diversion and storage structures. Endangered flora/fauna Species identified as endangered in the schedules of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999). Extraction area The area proposed to be mined during the MOP period, including batters and pre-strip areas. Flood prone land Land within 1 in 1 year flood boundaries as shown on regional maps. Where maps are not available other means may be required to assess flood potential. Inspector of mines Means an officer of the Department of Minerals Resources authorised as an Inspector under the Mining Act, This includes Department of Minerals Resources Environmental Officers. Landscape planning The sympathetic integration of the MOP s rehabilitated landforms, revegetation strategies with the environment surrounding the mine to achieve drainages and predetermined environmental outcomes and including land use (flora and fauna habitat and visual amenity) Limits to extraction The boundary of an area of land from which mineral cannot be extracted due to a provision, restriction or condition imposed by a government instrument. Mine life The expected extent and scope of the mine as approved in the Development Consent. In most circumstances this will be as described in the Environmental Impact Assessment on which approval and grant of lease were based. Mining leases Leases granted under the Mining Act 1992 or any previous Mining purposes mining legislation. The construction, maintenance or use in or in connection with mining operations of buildings, plant, road, emplacement, stock pile and other infrastructure Pollution The Protection of the Environment Operations Act (1997) comprehensively defines water, air and noise pollution. In essence: Water pollution Noise pollution Air pollution Means introducing anything which makes or is likely to make the water detrimental, undrinkable, poisonous, harmful or unsuitable for use, or changing the condition of the water. Means the emission of an offensive noise Means the emission into the air of any impurity including 3

4 Land pollution Processing wastes Rural land capability Classification Shaped emplacement areas Soil Stripping Depth Sublease Threatened flora/fauna Unshaped emplacement areas Water - clean water Water - dirty water Water - controlled discharge Water - contaminated water smoke, dust, gases, mists odours or radioactive substances. Means the degradation of land because of the disposal of waste. Tailings from coal beneficiation and processing A method of land classification published by the Soil Conservation Service of the Department of Land and Water Conservation. Mine and processing waste emplacements shaped to final design contours. The depth from the surface to which soil material which is to be removed in the preparation of land for mining or mining purposes. An interest registered under Section 161 of the Mining Act, Species defined as threatened in the schedules of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) and Environment Protection and Biodiversity and Conservation Act (1999). Active mine and processing waste emplacements not shaped to the final design contours. Water from undisturbed vegetated parts of the site. Fit for diversion or direct discharge to receiving streams. Water from disturbed but otherwise uncontaminated parts of the site. Fit for discharge, except for suspended solids which may require settling. Typically water, saline but otherwise uncontaminated, collected within open cuts or underground mine workings as a result of groundwater seepage. Able to be discharged under certain conditions. For example, saline water which may be discharged under high flow conditions as part of the Hunter River Salinity Trading Scheme. Water containing potential contaminants or pollutants and not fit for discharge. 4

5 Abbreviations AEMR AN ANFO ARI BC BCM BCT BIA CCC CL CMA DEBS DEDIM DII DoPI DRE DWE NOW EIS EMP EMS EPA EP & A Act EPBC Act EPL FEL FM Act GSC HiVol IARG IBC LHPA LOX MIA MMU MOP MSDS Mtpa Annual Environmental Management Report Ammonium Nitrate Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil mix Average Recurrence Interval Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Boggabri Coal Mine Boggabri Coal Terminal Biodiversity Impact Statement Community Consultative Committee Coal Lease Catchment Management Authority Downer EDI Blasting Services Downer EDI Mining PTY LTD Department of Industry and Investment Department of Planning and Infrastructure Division of Resources and Energy (NSW Trade and Investment) Department of Water and Energy NSW Office of Water Environmental Impact Statement Environmental Management Plan Environmental Management Strategy Environment Protection Authority Environmental Planning and Assessment Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act Environmental Protection Licence Front end loader Fisheries Management Act Gunnedah Shire Council High Volume Air Sampler Idemitsu Australia Resources Group Idemitsu Boggabri Coal Livestock Health and Pest Authority Limit of Oxidation Mine Infrastructure Area Mobile Mixing Unit Mine Operations Plan Material Safety Data Sheet Million tonnes per annum 5

6 MW NSC OEH PB ROM RTA SD tpa tph TSC Act WCM Mine Water Dam Narrabri Shire Council Office of Environment and Heritage Parsons Brinckerhoff Run Of Mine Roads and Traffic Authority Sediment Dam Tonnes per annum Tonnes per hour NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act Whitehaven Coal Mining Pty Ltd 6

7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Boggabri Coal Mine (BCM) is located approximately 15km north-east of the township of Boggabri in north-western New South Wales. The mine area contains considerable open cut and potential underground reserves. The BCM includes development of an open cut coal mine with associated infrastructure including a private haul road, rail loading facility and mine infrastructure area including workshops, administration and coal processing and handling. Production is based on 3.5 million tonnes of product coal per annum (Mtpa). The Boggabri Coal Mine s Mine Operations Plan (MOP) was approved in January 26 and construction and mine development activities began forthwith. Topsoil stripping commenced in the southern area of the coal lease area during May 26. Mining operations are undertaken using hydraulic excavators and trucks and the first coal was delivered to the ROM pad in October 26. There have been zero non-conformances recorded during the reporting period for BCs EPL 1247 This document describes all environmental management related activities during year six of BCM operations. Name of Mine Boggabri Coal Mine Mining Titles/Leases CL368 MOP Amendment E 13 December 211 Amendment E Completion 31 December 213 Name of Leaseholder Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Name of Mine Operator Downer EDI Mining Pty Ltd Reporting Officer Mike Ryan Title General Manager Signature Date 31 March 212 7

8 Table of Contents 1. INTRODUCTION MINE CONTACTS CONSENTS, LEASES AND LICENCES ACTIONS REQUIRED AT PREVIOUS AEMR REVIEW OPERATIONS DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD EXPLORATION Exploration Activity LAND PREPARATION Existing Vegetation Vegetation Clearing Soil Types Soil Characteristics Soil Profile Topsoil stripping CONSTRUCTION Mine Infrastructure MINE DESIGN AND PLANNING... 2 Merriown Pit (Pit 1)... 2 Jeralong Pit (Pit 2)... 2 Bollol Creek Pit (Pit 3) Mining Method Overburden Drilling and Blasting Overburden Removal Coal Extraction Coal Processing Coal Stockpiles WASTE MANAGEMENT Bioremediation Area WATER MANAGEMENT General Clean Water Drainage Dirty Water Drainage Contaminated Water Collection Site Water Management HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Diesel Ammonium Nitrate ANFO Detonators Hydraulic/Lubricating Oils Cleaning Agents Herbicides Material Safety Data Sheets ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE WEATHER MONITORING General Temperature Rainfall Wind AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Depositional Dust Tarrawonga Coal and Boggabri Coal Cumulative Impacts

9 3.2.3 PM SITE WATER MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Surface Water Results Groundwater Groundwater Level Groundwater ph Groundwater Electrical Conductivity Groundwater Temperature Groundwater Major Ions Groundwater Metals Groundwater Nutrients Ground water summary... 6 Piezometer rehabilitation program FLORA AND FAUNA MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE DPI Fisheries Resnagging Program Ecological Monitoring Statistical Analysis Summary and Recommendations REHABILITATION AND LAND MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Revegetation NOISE, BLAST AND VIBRATION MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Blast Peak Vibration Blast Overpressure Noise Monitoring Results HYDROCARBON AND CONTAMINATED LAND MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE General ABORIGINAL ARCHAEOLOGY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE PUBLIC SAFETY MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Mine Access Roads Livestock Health and Pest Authority Mine Site Security Fire Management Site Lighting COMMUNITY RELATIONS WORKFORCE COMMUNITY COMPLAINTS COMMUNITY LIAISON REHABILITATION BUILDINGS REHABILITATION OF DISTURBED LAND OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE REHABILITATION TRIALS AND RESEARCH Species Trials Fertilizer Trials Biodiversity Monitoring Vegetation Fauna habitats Management strategies Plantings Planning for Future Plantings Further Development of the Final Rehabilitation Plan ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN THE NEXT AEMR PERIOD ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN

10 Table of Figures Figure 1: New Lovton Coal office building November Figure 2: DEDIM assembly pad, MIA car park and new Lovton office November Figure 3: Aerial view from the south of the Bollol Creek pit, January 212. The Merriown pit and Jeralong pits continue to be backfilled from the east in the same direction as pit progression. 21 Figure 4: The stockpile at the BCT with slewing stacker, train loader and rail loop for transportation of coal to Newcastle, June Figure 5: The BCT stockpile with stacker unloading 23 Figure 6: Clear water diversion drain (CD1) after November 211 flooding showing rock gabion 26 Figure 7: Water usage for dust suppression during the reporting period 28 Figure 8:13 Month surveyed dam volumes for pit water stored in MW2 and Strip 9 29 Figure 9: 13 Month surveyed dam volumes 29 Figure 1: Double skinned bulk oil storage tanks near truck wash down pad 31 Figure 11: 13 Month temperature 34 Figure 12: 13 Month rainfall totals 34 Figure 13: rainfall comparison 35 Figure 14: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites east of Boggabri Coal Mine 39 Figure 15: Corrected depositional dust results at sites east of Boggabri Coal Mine 39 Figure 16: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites west of Boggabri Coal Mine 4 Figure 17: Corrected depositional dust results at sites west of Boggabri Coal Mine 4 Figure 18: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites adjacent Boggabri Coal Terminal 41 Figure 19: Corrected depositional dust results at sites adjacent Boggabri Coal Terminal 41 Figure 2: Uncorrected depositional dust results for sites south of the haul road 42 Figure 21: Corrected depositional dust results for sites south of the haul road 42 Figure 22: Dust gauges affected by the cumulative impacts of Tarrawonga and BCM 43 Figure 23: PM 1 results for the reporting period 44 Figure 24: Wet weather discharge ph results 46 Figure 25: Wet weather discharge total suspended solids results 46 Figure 26: Wet weather discharge electrical conductivity 47 Figure 27: Wet weather discharge concentration of nitrate 47 Figure 28: Wet weather discharge concentration of total nitrogen 48 Figure 29: Wet weather discharge concentration of total phosphorus 48 Figure 3: Wet weather discharge concentration of reactive phosphorus 49 Figure 31: Quarterly surface water ph results 5 Figure 32: Quarterly surface water electrical conductivity results 5 Figure 33: MW3 June Figure 34: Bore hole standing water level categorised by seam 53 Figure 35: Bore hole ph categorised by seam 54 Figure 36: Bore hole electrical conductivity categorised by seam 55 Figure 37: Bore hole temperature categorised by seam 56 Figure 38: Major ion trends BCM monitoring wells 58 Figure 39: Heavy metal trends BCM monitoring wells 59 Figure 4: Nutrient trends BCM monitoring wells 6 Figure 41: Ecological survey sites in Leard State Forest 63 Figure 42: Ecological survey sites at Rocklea 64 Figure 43: Ecological survey sites in Vickery State Forest 65 1

11 Figure 44:Peak vibration summary Figure 45: Peak overpressure summary Figure 46: Daytime Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine 69 Figure 47: Evening Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine 7 Figure 48: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine 7 Figure 49: Daytime Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road 71 Figure 5: Evening Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road 71 Figure 51: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road 72 Figure 52: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the rail loop 72 Figure 53: Aboriginal archaeological test excavations August Figure 54: Workforce residential locality summary Figure 55: 28 upper South planting at 36 months May Figure 56 Upper west trial at 25 months (left) and 36 months (right) 78 Figure 57: Lower south trial at 25 months (left) and 36 months (right) 78 Figure 58: Species response to fertilszer at planting 79 Figure 59: Fauna nesting of woodland bird in existing Boggabri Coal Mine rehabilitation. 8 Figure 6: Natural regeneration of native species in the 28 plantings 81 Figure 61: 21 plantings at 12 months 81 Figure 62: Aerial view of rehabilitated areas January Table of Tables Table 1: BCM Consents, Leases and Licences 15 Table 2: Actions required 16 Table 3: Production and waste summary 23 Table 4: Sampling parameters 24 Table 5: Material deposited in bioremediation area 1, adjacent to DBS reload area 25 Table 6: Material deposited in bioremediation area 3 (34RL dump) ( 1 volumes based on 8m³ per load, 2 volumes based on 3m³ per load)) 25 Table 7: Stored water 25 Table 8: Sediment dam design volumes 27 Table 9: Contaminated water storage 28 Table 1: Summary of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) 33 Table 11: Wind rose summary 37 Table 12: Summary of exceedences and corrected quantitiesof insoluable material 38 Table 13: Surface water monitoring sites and frequencies 45 Table 14: Monitoring bores screened geology 52 Table 15: Results of piezometer rehabilitation program January Table 16: Survey, site locations and transect orientation for session 7 ( July 211) 62 Table 17: Summary of blast overpressure exceedences 67 Table 18: Operational noise monitoring locations 68 Table 19: Summary of complaints 75 Table 2: Vegetation condition within existing rehabilitation areas 79 Table 21: Fauna species diversity and habitats within existing rehabilitation areas 8 Table 22: Rehabilitation summary Table 23: Maintenance activities on rehabilitated land

12 List of Attachments Attachment 1: AEMR 21 Aerial photo January 212 Attachment 2: AEMR 21 Existing infrastructure January 212 Attachment 3: AEMR 21 Environmental monitoring locations Attachment 4: AEMR 21 Topsoil plan Attachment 5: AEMR 21 Planned and actual topsoil stripping Attachment 6: AEMR 21 Planned and actual rehabilitation 12

13 1. INTRODUCTION In December 1991, Idemitsu Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (IBC) became the sole owner of the Boggabri Coal Mine (BCM). IBC is 1% owned by Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd (IKC), a privately owned Japanese resource company whose main business consists of importing crude oil, refining oil and the retail sale of fuel products in Japan. IKC has been involved in the Australian coal mining industry for 25 years, currently operating the Ensham Mine in central Queensland, Muswellbrook Mine in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales and the Boggabri Coal Mine in the Gunnedah Basin. In January 27, the Idemitsu Australia Resources Group (IAR) underwent an internal reorganisation. As part of the reorganisation, the assets and undertaking of Idemitsu Boggabri Coal Pty Limited were transferred to Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BC), a newly constituted wholly owned subsidiary of Idemitsu Australia Resources. The Boggabri Coal Mine is located approximately 15 km northeast of Boggabri and lies within the Leard State Forest. Access to the site is via the Leard Forest Road (SR12) off the Boggabri-Manilla Road (MR357). The area lies immediately to the north of the Tarrawonga Mine, a joint venture between BC and Whitehaven Coal Mining Pty Limited (WCM). Development of the project commenced in 1976, and in the early 198 s numerous environmental and engineering studies were prepared. In the mid 198 s these studies were reviewed and in 1988 an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was submitted for the project. The project was granted development consent on 25 August Coal Lease 368 was subsequently granted on 15 November 199 for a period of 21 years to 15 November 211. Between May and July 1979, a box cut pit (approximately 15m long and 35m wide) was developed to the Merriown seam in the south west of the lease area near the Merriown seam limit of oxidation (LOX) line. A 1 tonne bulk sample of Merriown seam coal was initially extracted and in November 1981 a further 1 tonne sample was excavated from the box cut. In November 1993 a bulk sample of approximately 2, tonnes of Merriown seam was extracted by augering operations at the box cut. Consistent with the lease expiry date, the Mine Operations Plan (MOP) was prepared to cover a six year period, from when operations commenced in early 26 extending to the end of the lease period. BC has renewed CL368 to allow mining operations to continue uninterrupted. On 11 January 26, IBC was granted an Environmental Protection Licence (EPL 1247) and the Mine Operations Plan was submitted and approved on 25 January 26. Subsequent to the granting of the required approvals, construction of the project began. Constructed items included a 17 km bitumen sealed private coal haul road from the mine to the rail loading facility including bridges over the Namoi River and Kamilaroi Highway; a Run of Mine (ROM) pad; a coal crusher, conveyor and truck load out facility; a 3 km rail loop and turnout, a product stockpile and precision train loading facility; and the mine infrastructure area including workshop and offices. These construction activities were completed by early November 26. Forest clearing began in February 26 and Stage 1 clearing including timber recovery was completed in August 26. Topsoil stripping activities commenced in May 26 and the first coal was mined and delivered to the run of mine (ROM) pad in October 26. Initially, coal is mined and transported to the ROM crushing facility located in the south western corner of the mine lease, crushed and blended (without further beneficiation) to produce an export quality steaming coal and a product suitable for pulverised coal injection applications. 13

14 Product coal is hauled 17km via a bitumen sealed private coal haul road to the Boggabri Coal Terminal (BCT) facility for loading and rail transport to the Port of Newcastle. The BCM employs approximately 36 mining and 6 maintenance services employees and 6 transport services employees. Local job opportunities have been created as many positions have been filled by local residents. This is outlined in further detail later in this report. Mining operations are undertaken on a two shift, seven days, 12 hours per shift basis, with maintenance activities occurring 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Mining commenced from the south of the open cut area utilising large hydraulic excavators and rear dump trucks. The first two years of mining concentrated on two separate, progressively developed pits (the Merriown and Jeralong pits) which have now been joined to form the Bollol Creek pit. The rehabilitation of in-pit and ex-pit emplacement areas is undertaken progressively. The rehabilitation objective is to achieve a similar structure to existing native forest composition with emphasis on the following commercial native species: Narrow-leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra), White Box (E. albens) and Pilliga Box (E. pilligaensis). Following mine closure the mine infrastructure area (MIA) will be rehabilitated to pasture. Clean water is diverted around the mine site via diversion channels and all dirty water is collected in purpose built sediment dams where sediment is allowed to settle prior to discharge. Potentially contaminated water is collected and utilised within the mine site. In accordance with the EIS prepared by the BHP-AGIP-Idemitsu Joint Venture, current development consent conditions allow development of the BCM at a rate of 3.5 Mtpa. Current production is 3.2 Mtpa. 14

15 1.1 Mine Contacts General Manager: Company: Address: Phone: Fax: Environmental Coordinator: Company: Address: Phone: Fax: Mine Manager: Company: Address: Phone: Fax: Mike Ryan Boggabri Coal Pty Limited 386 Leard Forest Rd, Boggabri, NSW, Joe Rennick Boggabri Coal Pty Limited 386 Leard Forest Rd, Boggabri, NSW, Gus Jorquera Downer EDI Mining Pty Ltd 386 Leard Forest Rd, Boggabri, NSW, Consents, Leases and Licences Table 1 summarises the leases, consents and licences that have been granted for the BCM. Description Date Granted Expiry/Duration Development Consent 79/1443(z)2 Modified Modified 22 August July October November November December 213 Coal Lease November Years Water Access Licence No: July 24 In perpetuity Water Access Licence No: July 24 In perpetuity Water Access Licence No: July 24 In perpetuity Water Access Licence No: July 24 In perpetuity Water Licence 9CA8734 (replaces 9BL252849) 1 November 26 3 October 22 Water Licence 9BL July 27 5 July 212 Mine Operations Plan Modified Modified Modified Environmental Protection Licence 1247 (As currently modified) 25 January September 29 9 February December January November November November December 213 In Perpetuity (Anniversary 11 January ) Table 1: BCM Consents, Leases and Licences 15

16 1.3 Actions Required at Previous AEMR Review No Issue / Observation Action Required Where dealt with in this AEMR Nil actions required for this reporting period Table 2: Actions required 2. OPERATIONS DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD 2.1 Exploration Exploration Activity No exploration was carried out during the reporting period. 2.2 Land Preparation Existing Vegetation The majority of the Project within Leard State Forest is dominated by remnant vegetation communities with relatively few exotic species and high natural species diversity. However, these vegetation communities have often been structurally simplified, reflecting a history of disturbances consistent with forestry operations and thinning. The areas of the Project Boundary outside of Leard State Forest are characterised by highly disturbed communities affected by intensive agricultural land uses. Previous mapping of the site (Department of Land and Water Conservation 22) indicated that the proposed mine infrastructure and development would cover four main vegetation communities. The four vegetation communities are: Black-earth grassland Riparian woodland River Oak, Black Tea-tree woodland White Cypress Pine, Ironbark Forest. This broad scale vegetation mapping has recently been updated by detailed field surveys conducted for the Biodiversity Impact Assessment (BIA) for the Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment. These recent surveys have identified four broad vegetation groups: Grassy Woodlands on fertile soils. Shrubby Woodland/Open Forest on skeletal soils. Riverine Woodlands. Grasslands. 16

17 The broad vegetation types have been subsequently split into a total of fifteen distinct vegetation communities. Detailed summaries of the species recorded in each vegetation community are provided in the BIA. Three threatened ecological communities, White Box, Yellow Box, Blakely s Red Gum Woodland, Plains Grass grassland on basaltic black earth soils mainly on the Liverpool Plains in the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion and Weeping Myall Woodland listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). A total of 427 plants were recorded in the Project Boundary, of which 365 species (86%) are native and two are threatened species of plant listed under the TSC Act or the EPBC Act. A total of 194 species of animal were recorded within the Project Boundary during field surveys. These include six amphibians, 129 birds, 31 mammals and 28 reptile species. Of the species recorded 21 are listed as threatened under the TSC Act and four are also listed as threatened under the EPBC Act with a further two listed as migratory under the EPBC Act. In addition to these, three preliminary listed species on the TSC Act were recorded in the EA Boundary. The impacts and offsets for these communities is currently being addressed by the part 3A approvals process Vegetation Clearing The clearing of 78 ha ahead of mining that was commenced in January 211 was completed in April 211 in accordance with the approved MOP. A further 59 Ha of clearing ahead of mining was commenced in January 212 in accordance with Boggabri Coal s current consent and MOP Soil Types Most of the soils within the lease area have developed from two major sources of parent material. The parent materials are residuum of weathered sandy conglomerates and alluvium and/or colluvium from weathering of surrounding volcanic or sedimentary outcrops. The texture of these soils ranges from gravelly sandy clay loams to sandy clays. There are basically three major types of soil groups in the lease area. Detailed field observations of the soils have qualified soil mapping previously prepared for the EIS. These observations indicate the area to be disturbed during this MOP period can mainly be categorised as duplex soils (mainly Sodosols) or structured loams (Tenosol and Rudosols). The third soil type Lithsols typically occupy the steeper sloping terrain and ridge top areas, outside of the area of disturbance expected in this MOP duration. For most areas of the open cut area the soil profile consists of a sandy loam A horizon developed upon a hard setting B_C Horizon. Topsoil or A Horizon thickness varies across the area of operations from 5mm to 15mm averaging at approximately 1mm Soil Characteristics For most areas of the open cut area the A horizon comprises recognisable A1 and A2 horizons, is non-saline, non sodic and slightly acidic. Compared with other over-interburden material, while not 17

18 considering the existing seed bank, the A horizons are the most suitable plant growing media available for use in rehabilitation. Most of the strata are devoid of acid producing pyrites. The siltstone roof over portions of the Braymont seam in the lease area have the potential to develop acid producing conditions however, this type of material may be encountered during the current MOP duration. If materials having the potential to develop acid are identified they will be buried at a minimum of two metres from the reclaimed surface. As these sodic and potentially acid producing materials make up less than a third of the total thickness of the overburden/interburden to be disturbed during mining, appropriate scheduling of overburden/interburden emplacement will ensure burial of these materials with the remaining nonsaline, non-sodic materials Soil Profile For most areas of the open cut area the soil profile consists of a sandy loam A horizon developed upon a hard setting B_C Horizon. Overburden material is highly variable. sandstone, siltstone, and shale/mudstone. Overburden rock types include sandy conglomerate, Topsoil stripping The topsoil stripping procedure at BC has been developed over the past few years. A CAT dozer was used for the stripping of topsoil from the areas of 211 development operations. Recovered topsoil was loaded into rear dump trucks by hydraulic excavator and hauled directly to reshaped areas on the out of pit dump (OOPD) for spreading, if an area was available, to a depth of 15 2mm which is above the MOP requirement of 1mm, if not it was placed in the topsoil stockpile (TS14) on the north western side of Leard Forest road (see AEMR plan 4). Quality control of the topsoil removal and replacement processes was maintained throughout by regular inspections and by the formal sign off procedure executed by the environmental coordinator and the Downer EDI Mining (DEDIM) production supervisor. A total of 79.7 hectares of topsoil stripping was undertaken in the 211 reporting period. A detailed topsoil plan of the Boggabri Mine is presented at the end of this report in Attachment Construction Mine Infrastructure The following mine infrastructure was constructed during the reporting period; a new building was added to the Lovton Coal office. Construction of the MIA car park and Downer assembly pad were completed during September

19 Figure 1: New Lovton Coal office building November 211 Figure 2: DEDIM assembly pad, MIA car park and new Lovton office November 211 The BC office extension began during January 212 and is not yet completed. The earthworks and drainage design work for the mining contractor s office complex commenced during January

20 2.4 Mine Design and Planning Merriown Pit (Pit 1) The Merriown Pit was completed in November 21. This pit is was designed as a single seam operation down to the Merriown seam although some JE coal was mined in the northern blocks as a result of the oxidation line being further to the South than modelled. To the east, the pit is bounded by a zone of deeper oxidation of the Merriown seam, and to the west by a 1:1 stripping ratio limit. The Merriown Pit was progressively backfilled with waste in accordance with the MOP final landform design. Jeralong Pit (Pit 2) The Jeralong Pit was completed in 29. The Jeralong Pit was progressively backfilled with waste in accordance with the MOP final landform design. Bollol Creek Pit (Pit 3) The Bollol Creek Pit is a continuation of the Jeralong Pit and commences following Jeralong Pit strip 11. Operations commenced advancing the Bollol Creek Pit to the east along 5 metre wide north-south orientated mining strips. The Bollol Creek Pit s southern boundaries have been determined by the Merriown seam LOX line and the EIS limit of surface disturbance. Coal is being mined from four coal seams including the Braymont, Bollol Creek, Jeralong and basal Merriown seams. The Bollol Creek Pit is being progressively backfilled however the northern (alongside the mine water dam (MW2)) dump limits have been designed to allow future long term open cut mine development to continue northwards beyond the term of the MOP. 2

21 Figure 3: Aerial view from the south of the Bollol Creek pit, January 212. The Merriown pit and Jeralong pits continue to be backfilled from the east in the same direction as pit progression Mining Method Overburden Drilling and Blasting The major consideration with drill and blast design includes managing environmental compliance and ensuring effective fragmentation of the overburden. The major waste constituents are conglomerate and sandstone. Drill and blast design focuses on the following objectives: control of air blast and ground vibration minimise fly rock optimise fragmentation reduce coal seam damage Blasting activities in the Bollol Creek pit that fall within 5 metres of the Leard Forest Road require temporary road closures. No coal is drill and blasted. Overburden Removal Coal Extraction Overburden/interburden removal is carried out by large hydraulic excavators, FELs and shovels. The truck fleet includes various Komatsu and Caterpillar rear dump trucks. The waste is hauled to both in-pit and ex-pit emplacements via haul roads maintained within the advancing pit face and emplacement faces. Coal is mined using large hydraulic excavators, FELs and various Komatsu and Caterpillar rear dump trucks. Coal is stockpiled on ROM pad or stored in pit for further blending and crushing. 21

22 2.4.2 Coal Processing In 21, the crusher was upgraded from a nominal 45 tph crushing system to 65 tph crushing system. Coal is recovered from the ROM pad by a FEL and trammed to the crusher for sizing to a 5 mm x mm size specification. Product coal is batch loaded into Kenworth T65 B-double coal haulers for transport to the Boggabri Coal Terminal (BCT), via the 17km private haul road. In late 21, Boggabri commissioned a direct dump station with slewing stacker to complement the original dozer push stacking system. Also included in the BCT system are two dozer push assist reclaim valves, coal conveyors, train loading bin and a 3km rail loop. Coal is transported via rail to the Port of Newcastle. Figure 4: The stockpile at the BCT with slewing stacker, train loader and rail loop for transportation of coal to Newcastle, June Coal Stockpiles A 2m x 23m ROM coal stockpile with a nominal capacity of 1, tonnes is located adjacent to the crushing facility. Additional capacity is available with temporary in pit ROMs located within the pit disturbance area. The product coal stockpile at the rail loading facility has been expanded from a nominal maximum capacity of 12, tonne to 16, tonnes with the introduction of the new stacker. The stockpiled coal has a relatively high calorific value and low ash content. The coal is also relatively low in sulphur, chlorine, phosphorous and other trace elements. 22

23 Figure 5: The BCT stockpile with stacker unloading 2.5 Waste Management Waste emplacement areas have been created through the clearing of designated ex-pit areas and by in pit emplacement in mined-out sections of the mine. The main emplacement area is immediately bounded by the Merriown Pit to the east, the Jeralong and Bollol Creek Pits to the north and the (EIS) surface mine limit to the west and south. At the end of the MOP period the emplacement area will be approximately 1,5 m long (northsouth) and 1,m wide (east-west). The majority of the emplacement is designed to an RL of 34 metres AHD, approximately 4 metres above the natural ground level (varying with the slope of the landform). Side slopes are designed at a maximum angle of 1 degrees and incorporate eight metre wide catch benches at 2 metre vertical intervals. Water management from the emplacement areas consists of a system of contour drains installed on the catch benches and drainage flumes that direct water to sediment control dams located on natural surface. Particular care is taken with the positioning of night lighting sets on the waste dumps adjacent to the Leard Forest Road to avoid any hazard to road users due to fugitive light. Cumulative Production Start of Reporting Period (bcm) At end of Reporting Period (bcm) End of Next Reporting Period (bcm) Topsoil Stripped 87, ,394 1,137,582 Topsoil Replaced 116, , ,635 Waste Rock 63,885,744 89,895, ,957,72 Coal 5,623,356 7,784,52 11,83,81 Processing Waste Production 7,433,46 98,795, ,34, Table 3: Production and waste summary 23

24 2.5.1 Bioremediation Area During 29 a Bioremediation Area management procedure ensuring the active management of the area was put in place. In summary, these procedures include management of the pad, watering, aeration, sampling and testing of contaminated material. The material retained in the pad is turned and watered every month or as required. The following three areas have been established to manage contaminated waste material. Area 1 (see plan 1) Original Bioremediation area adjacent to the blasting reload compound. This area is now redundant and approximately 9% of the contaminated material has been relocated to Area 3. The remaining 1% of contaminated material has been scheduled for recovery and relocation to Area 3 by mid 212. Area 2 RL32 Merriown Pit dump established in 29 to contain 2 cubic metres of material removed from the pit that had been contaminated with approximately 6 litres of hydraulic oil released during a reported incident. This area is now redundant and was closed after receiving suitable testing results provided in the 21 AEMR Area 3 (see plan 1) RL34 Dump new bioremediation pad established in November 21. Area 3 comprises two bioremediation cells. Cell 1 is closed and is currently awaiting the relocation of remaining contaminated material from Area 1. Cell 2 is open and accepting contaminated material. Sampling Sampling parameters are outlined in Table 4 below. Scheduled sampling for 211 has been delayed due to relocation of contaminated material from Area 1 to Area 3. Substance Threshold concentrations (mg/kg) dry weight C6+C9 65 C1+C4 1 Benzene 1 Toluene 13 Ethyl Benzene 5 Total xylenes 25 Phenol 518 Total lead 3 Benzo (a) pyrene 1 Total PAHs^m 2 Threshold source: Table 4: Sampling parameters 24

25 Date Location from Loads Total Cubic Metres 27 Workshop Workshop Workshop Nil Nil 9% Material relocated to Area Totals 5 15 Table 5: Material deposited in bioremediation area 1, adjacent to DBS reload area (volumes based on 3m³ per load) Date Location from Loads Total Cubic Metres 29 In pit active mining area (from Area 1) 21 Workshop Workshop In pit active mining area Totals 23 Table 6: Material deposited in bioremediation area 3 (34RL dump) ( 1 volumes based on 8m³ per load, 2 volumes based on 3m³ per load)) 2.6 Water Management General The basic approach to water management is to segregate clean runoff, dirty runoff, and contaminated water. The original site water balance prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB) indicated that the BCM is likely to produce an excess quantity of groundwater. The BCM holds a number of existing licences for surface and ground water on the BC owned properties Daisymede, Heathcliffe and Nagero. In the event of an extended dry period, or if the mine does not produce an excess of water, the BCM will utilise these existing water licences to provide water for dust suppression operations. Volumes Held Type of Water Start of Reporting Period (cu.m) At end of Reporting Period (cu.m) Storage Capacity (cu.m) Clean Water Dirty Water 47, 31, 98, Controlled discharge 39,5 Contaminated Water 284, 387, 535, Table 7: Stored water 25

26 2.6.2 Clean Water Drainage Clean water drains have been constructed around the perimeter of the development area. These diversion drains are designed to divert clean water around the disturbed areas, and to protect the mining pits from water inundation from the ephemeral tributaries of the unnamed water course that crosses the mine area. The catchments of these watercourses remain undisturbed by mining activities, and the drains ensure that the majority of surface flows emanating from the Leard Forest remain separated from the disturbed mine site. The drains comprise an earth bund constructed from material excavated from a shallow earth channel excavated upslope. The excavated channel is sized to contain the two year average recurrence interval (ARI) flood event, with larger events overflowing the channel and spreading over a wide area upslope. The earth bund is sized to contain the 1 year ARI design flood event with suitable freeboard. The drains have been topsoiled and grassed to control erosion and preserve downstream water quality. At the downstream ends of the channels, the design flow is spread over a wide area of undisturbed natural ground. The flow is contained within a pair of low earth bunds to direct the flow around sedimentation dam 3 (SD3) before rejoining the natural ephemeral systems downstream. Figure 6: Clear water diversion drain (CD1) after November 211 flooding showing rock gabion Dirty Water Drainage Dirty water drains are provided around the perimeter of the emplacement to direct runoff from disturbed areas to SD3. SD3 is designed to operate as a dry basin; with a (normally closed) low level slow release outlet provided to ensure (water quality permitting) the contents of the dams may be emptied over a 1 day period. This will allow coarse particles in the runoff to settle before leaving the site. During the reporting period 39.5ML of water were released off site during a controlled discharge event in November

27 Where the catchment potentially contains large quantities of stockpiled coal, sedimentation dams are sized to contain the total volume of run-off from a 1 year ARI 72 hour design storm event. Captured water is preferentially re-used for dust suppression on stockpiles and roads. Sediment dam 2 (SD2) is designed to operate as a dry basin with water being pumped to mine water dam 3 (MW3) on as required basis. In the event of heavy rainfall that may fill this dam, water exits via a spillway that directs flow into a natural drainage depression that feeds the original Nagero farmhouse dam (SD6). A network of dams and drains directs dirty water from the MIA to SD6 which has a spillway on its northern side allowing excess water to drain into the ephemeral water course. The water distribution pipeline allows for water from SD2, SD3 and SD6 to be pumped across for storage for future use in the proposed CHPP. Dirty water from the new topsoil area (TS14) is captured in sediment dam 23 (SD23). Water from SD23 is either reused on site for dust suppression or treated and discharged. Refer to AEMR plan 2 for a plan of the dirty water drainage system described above. Location ID Location Description Stored Water Catchment Area (ha) Sizing Criteria Volume (ML SD1 Mine Infrastructure Area Dirty runoff from MIA 19 V = 2 year plus sediment 1 SD2 Coal Processing Area SD3 SW corner of lease area Dirty runoff from crusher and stockpiles (controlled discharge) 13 V = 1 year 72h plus sediment Location 45 V = 2 year plus sediment 35 2 SD4 Rail Loop Dirty runoff from Rail Loop (controlled discharge) SD6 Mine Infrastructure Area Clean runoff from Nagero property & emergency dirty runoff SD23 TS14 Dirty water runoff from Topsoil stockpile area TS14 5 V = 1 year 72h plus sediment Existing farm dam V = 1 year 72h plus sediment 12.7 Table 8: Sediment dam design volumes Contaminated Water Collection All contaminated water was retained in dedicated contaminated water dams for use in mine dust suppression operations. 27

28 ML ML Location Location Description Stored Water Sizing Criteria Volume (ML) In Pit Void SE corner of site Contaminated Water Based remodelled site water balance (PB 212) requiring 112 Ml of contaminated water storage for the next two years 8 MW2 N of MW1 Contaminated Water MW3 S of MIA Contaminated Water Based remodelled site water balance (PB 212) requiring 112 Ml of contaminated water storage for the next two years) Based remodelled site water balance (PB 212) requiring 112 Ml of contaminated water storage for the next two years) Table 9: Contaminated water storage Site Water Management Figure 7 to Figure 9 below illustrate an ongoing site water management summary Total ML/Month Cumulative Total Figure 7: Water usage for dust suppression during the reporting period 28

29 ML ML Jan-11 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 MW Box Cut Strip Figure 8:13 Month surveyed dam volumes for pit water stored in MW2 and Strip Nagero SD6 Sed Dam 2 MW3 Figure 9: 13 Month surveyed dam volumes 29

30 2.7 Hazardous Materials A number of potentially hazardous materials have been, and are being used within the operation of the BCM. These materials include: Diesel fuel Ammonium nitrate ANFO Diesel High explosives and detonators Lubricating oils and greases Cleaning agents Herbicides Appropriate licences for the storage and handling of these hazardous materials have been obtained by the mining contractor and transport services contractor. Diesel fuel is stored in the maintenance workshop area in 6 double-skinned, above ground tanks plumbed in series as slave and master, with a total nominal capacity of approximately 495, litres. In July 29 the use of biodiesel was introduced by the mining contractor. Biodiesel is used in all mine vehicles except for light vehicles. Average fuel consumption for the 211 calendar year was 1,971,498 litres of biodiesel per month. Fuel Consumed from Feb 11 to Jan 12: 4835 BU = 19,265,72 L 235 BU = 4,392,97 L The transport services contractor also has a 55, litre double-skinned diesel fuel storage tank located adjacent to their workshop within the MIA. The construction of the concrete bunded area for loading of mine site fuel trucks and unloading of delivery trucks is linked to the continuation of mining consent that is currently being assessed by DoPI. This infrastructure upgrade includes a new fuel farm that has fully bunded load and unload facilities. In the interim the following measures are in place: a sacrificial layer of gravel BCM has a bioremediation area to handle any spills audits of the area are undertaken regularly 3

31 2.7.2 Ammonium Nitrate ANFO Ammonium nitrate (AN) is used in the blasting process. Ammonium nitrate is stored in one tonne bulker bags at the bunded Downer EDI Blasting Services compound in an above ground storage shed. The AN storage shed is fitted with lockable access gates and is subject to daily inspections to safeguard against theft and/or spillages. ANFO is used in the blasting process and is delivered as required by mobile mixing units (MMU) to the blast site Detonators Detonators and other high explosives are used in the blasting process. Detonators are stored in purpose built isolated magazines to the west of the Downer EDI Blasting Services (DEBS) compound and at the toe of the ex-pit emplacement Hydraulic/Lubricating Oils Hydraulic/lubricating oils are stored in double skinned above ground tanks near the truck wash down pad next to the maintenance workshop area. Waste oils are stored in a bulk oil tank, for regular collection by a licenced waste contractor. Figure 1: Double skinned bulk oil storage tanks near truck wash down pad 31

32 2.7.6 Cleaning Agents Cleaning agents are used in the equipment wash down facility used for preparing the fleet of mobile equipment prior to maintenance. The cleaning agents are stored in covered stores within the maintenance workshop area, adjacent to the truck wash. All water collected at the bunded truck wash is collected in a 55, litre tank for recirculation at the facility Herbicides Herbicides are used around the site for noxious weed control. Herbicides are not stored on site but are purchased on an as-needs basis Material Safety Data Sheets Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for all hazardous material stored on site are maintained by BC, DEDIM and Lovton personnel with copies being provided at appropriate locations throughout the project site such as, maintenance workshops and stores and rail loading facility. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND PERFORMANCE An Environmental Risk Identification Matrix was used as a risk assessment tool to identify mine activities, processes and facilities which require control strategies to ensure environmental protection and compliance with conditions of lease, licence and development consent. Upon completion of the risk assessment process, all aspects relevant to environmental performance were identified and incorporated in subsequent Environmental Management Plans (EMPs). These EMPs are an integral part of the operation s Environmental Management System (EMS). Environmental Management Plans Construction Operations Air Quality Management Plan X X Site Water Management Plan (Surface/Ground Water and Erosion and Sedimentation Control) X X Flora and Fauna Management Plan X X Rehabilitation and Land Management Plan (Rehabilitation, weed and soil) X X Noise, Blast and Vibration Management Plan X X Hydrocarbon Management Plan X X Aboriginal Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management Plan X X Irrigation Management Plan X X Waste Management Plan X X Public Safety Management Plan (Traffic, Bushfire, Lighting, X X 32

33 Environmental Management Plans Construction Operations Security) Table 1: Summary of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) Environmental monitoring systems are in place to ensure compliance with the Environmental Protection Licence (EPL). These include continuous monitoring of weather conditions, dust monitoring, noise and vibration monitoring and water quality testing. The site map presented in Attachment 3 shows the locations of all monitoring sites. 3.1 Weather Monitoring General BCM monitors local weather conditions using an automatic weather station comprised of µsmart series sensors and data logger supplied by Monitor Sensors. Monitoring is recorded at 15 minute intervals for temperature, rainfall, wind speed and direction and solar radiation. The site is labelled W1 on AEMR plan 3. During the times when the weather station is inoperable weather data is obtained from Tarrawonga Mine s weather station. In line with Boggabri Coal s recent approval under section 75W, a new compliant weather station is due to be installed early in the second quarter of 212. The new weather station will monitor wind speed and direction, 2m and 1m temperature, relative humidity and rainfall. The weather station will be installed and integrated with a new noise and dust monitoring network. The location of the weather station is most likely to be that of the existing weather station adjacent to the mine infrastructure area. BC personnel will be trained to enable access to the monitoring information and interpretation of results. Ongoing maintenance and operational support will be included with the supply of the new monitoring systems Temperature Maximum, minimum and average temperatures are recorded at the end of each month. Figure 11 shows average monthly temperature records for the reporting period. 33

34 mm mm Degrees Celsius maximum minimum average Rainfall Figure 11: 13 Month temperature Rainfall is measured using an RG5 type flow through monitor recording every 15 minutes with 24 hours to 9am recorded on a 24 hour basis. Rainfall totals for the reporting period are presented in Figure 12 below Monthly Total Cumulative Total Figure 12: 13 Month rainfall totals 34

35 mm mm Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Cumulative Total 211 Cumulative Total Figure 13: rainfall comparison Wind Wind data for the reporting period is presented in the wind roses below. Wind speed values are shown in metres per second. 35

36 36

37 Table 11: Wind rose summary 3.2 Air Quality Management and Performance Depositional Dust Depositional dust monitoring at Boggabri Coal Mine is undertaken on a monthly basis at fifteen sites surrounding the mine. It provides an indication of levels of dust in the atmosphere measured in g/m²/month of insoluble matter (IM). The Boggabri Coal Mine Development Consent (DA-36/88) specifies that insoluble matter must not exceed a limit of 4g/m2/month at any of Boggabri Coal s depositional dust monitoring sites.. Depositional dust monitoring recorded results from 15 samples during the reporting period. It is noted that three of the fifteen sites (D3, D1 and D11 gauges) were decommissioned during the reporting period. No results were recorded from these gauges between August 211 and January 212. Sites D1 and D11 were originally put in place to measure dust from the construction of the Boggabri Coal haul road, and are no longer required. Additionally, the property The Rock where D11 was located is now project owned. Site D3 was replaced by site D15 which is closer to both the Tarrawonga Coal Mine and Boggabri Coal Mine and more representative of dust impacts from mining operations. Sample results included a minimum concentration of.2 g/m2/month, a maximum of 16.7 g/m2/month (uncorrected) and an average of 2.1 g/m2/month. Of the 15 sample results, 22 exceeded the Development Consent criteria of 4g/m2/month. Boggabri Coal commissioned a NATA accredited laboratory to undertake visual analysis of samples to understand their composition and provide possible explanations for some of the recorded exceedences. Visual analysis estimated the portion of each sample that was contaminated with impurities such as bird droppings, vegetation and insects. What remained after these impurities were removed from the total amount of insoluble matter was considered dust. Visual analysis was completed on 16 of the 22 samples that recorded an exceedance. The adjusted levels of recorded insoluble matter (following removal of contaminants) were then compared to the raw results. 37

38 This comparison showed that only 9 of the original 22 exceedences remained once visual analysis had been completed. Additionally, of the remaining 9 exceedences, 6 had not been subject to visual analysis. A summary of the recorded exceedences, before and after visual analysis and a copy of the field observations recorded for each sample is shown in the table below for comparison. Field observations have been presented in this table and provide further explanation of the possible causes of recorded exceedences, particularly for those samples that did not undergo visual analysis. Site Month Total IM (g/m²/m onth) % composition by visual analysis Other Dust (dirt/ash) Impurities Adjusted IM (g/m²/month) Field Observations D3 Feb Visual analysis not completed 5.8 Bird droppings and algae D3 Apr Bird droppings and algae D9 Apr Visual analysis not completed 5.5 Cloudy, paddock burnt and ploughed D9 May Visual analysis not completed 4.6 Dry flask, some dead insects D3 Jun Full of bird droppings D4 Jun Visual analysis not completed 8.4 Sample contaminated with bird droppings D9 Jun Visual analysis not completed 13.1 Sample contaminated with algae and oily scum on surface D3 Jul Visual analysis not completed 4.4 Full of bird droppings D4 Jul Full of bird droppings D9 Jul Full of bird droppings, funnel blocked D1 Aug Funnel blocked with bird droppings, lots of debris D4 Sep Bird droppings, lots of algae and sediment D9 Nov Cloudy, discoloured and bird droppings D16 Nov Clear with dead insects, some sediment D6 Dec Funnel neck totally blocked, brown water D9 Dec Cloudy D16 Dec Lots of vegetation, brown water and bird droppings D2 Jan Yellowish sediment, scum and dead insects D4 Jan Yellowish sediment, scum and dead insects D5 Jan Cloudy scum and dead insects D6 Jan Yellowish sediment, scum and dead insects D13 Jan Yellowish sediment and dead insects Table 12: Summary of exceedences and corrected quantitiesof insoluable material The raw results (uncorrected) and results following visual analysis for all depositional dust monitoring completed during the reporting period are graphically represented in Figure 14 to Figure 21 below. 38

39 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) D3 D3 Cumulative Avg. D4 D4 Cumulative Avg. D5 D5 Cumulative Avg. D6 D6 Cumulative Avg. D15 D15 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 14: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites east of Boggabri Coal Mine D3 D3 Cumulative Avg. D4 D4 Cumulative Avg. D5 D5 Cumulative Avg. D6 D6 Cumulative Avg. D15 D15 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 15: Corrected depositional dust results at sites east of Boggabri Coal Mine 39

40 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) D1 D1 Cumulative Avg. D2 D2 Cumulative Avg. D7 D7 Cumulative Avg. D8 D8 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 16: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites west of Boggabri Coal Mine D1 D1 Cumulative Avg. D2 D2 Cumulative Avg. D7 D7 Cumulative Avg. D8 D8 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 17: Corrected depositional dust results at sites west of Boggabri Coal Mine 4

41 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) D11 D11 Cumulative Avg. D12 D12 Cumulative Avg. D13 D13 Cumulative Avg. D14 D14 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 18: Uncorrected depositional dust results at sites adjacent Boggabri Coal Terminal D11 D11 Cumulative Avg. D12 D12 Cumulative Avg. D13 D13 Cumulative Avg. D14 D14 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 19: Corrected depositional dust results at sites adjacent Boggabri Coal Terminal 41

42 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) D9 D9 Cumulative Avg. D1 D1 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 2: Uncorrected depositional dust results for sites south of the haul road D9 D9 Cumulative Avg. D1 D1 Cumulative Avg. Limit Figure 21: Corrected depositional dust results for sites south of the haul road Tarrawonga Coal and Boggabri Coal Cumulative Impacts Regular meetings are held between BCM and Tarrawonga Coal Mine to discuss the cumulative environmental impacts of both mines. Cumulative dust impacts from Tarrawonga Coal Mine and BCM are monitored at depositional dust gauges D15 (managed by BCM), EB-14 and EB-15 (managed by Tarrawonga Coal Mine). These gauges 42

43 Feb-11 Mar-11 Apr-11 May-11 Jun-11 Jul-11 Aug-11 Sep-11 Oct-11 Nov-11 Dec-11 Jan-12 Depositional Dust (g/m 2 /month) are located in the area between BCM and Tarrawonga Coal Mine. A graphical representation of cumulative depositional dust data is shown below in the figure below D15 D15 Cumulative Avg. EB-14 (Tarrawonga) EB-14 Cumulative Avg. EB-15 (Tarrawonga) EB-14 Cumulative Avg. Limit PM1 Figure 22: Dust gauges affected by the cumulative impacts of Tarrawonga and BCM In addition to the use of depositional dust gauges, BCM monitors dust using a High Volume Air Sampler (HiVol), measuring PM 1 (particulate matter less than 1 microns in diameter). Concentrations of PM 1 are recorded in units of µg/m³. The BCM HiVol is located on the Merriown property, approximately 1km west of the mining operation. In accordance with EPL 1247, sampling is undertaken for a period of 24 hours every 6 days, totalling 61 sample events over the reporting period. The limit for concentration of PM 1 over each 24 hour sampling period is 5 µg/m³. No exceedences of this limit were recorded during the reporting period. A summary of PM 1 results during the reporting period is shown in the Figure 23 below. 43

44 2/2/211 2/2/211 3/1/211 3/28/211 4/15/211 5/3/211 5/21/211 6/8/211 6/28/211 7/14/211 8/1/211 8/19/211 9/12/211 9/3/211 1/9/211 1/27/211 11/14/211 12/2/211 12/22/211 1/9/212 1/27/212 PM 1 (µg/m 3 ) Limit Hi Vol Hi Vol Cumulative Avg. Figure 23: PM 1 results for the reporting period 3.3 Site Water Management and Performance Surface Water Three types of surface water monitoring are undertaken at Boggabri Coal Mine; ambient water quality, surface water quality, and wet weather discharge monitoring. Ambient water quality monitoring measures the water quality of the receiving environment surrounding the Boggabri Coal Mine. Surface water quality monitoring measures the quality of water in sediment dams and mine water dams within the Boggabri Coal Mine. Wet weather discharge monitoring measures the quality of water being discharged from site during a licensed discharge event. A total of twenty-nine water samples from twelve different monitoring points were collected and analysed during the reporting period for various criterion (pollutants) in accordance with Environment Protection Licence Each of these twelve monitoring points, there analysis requirements and compliance limits are described in the table below. EPL ID Location Type of monitoring point Frequency Parameters Limits 1 Nagero dam (SD6) Wet weather discharge During wet weather discharge Conductivity, Nitrate, Nitrogen (total), Oil and Grease, ph, Phosphorous (total), Reactive Phosphorous, Total suspended solids (TSS) Oil and Grease <1mg/L 6.5<pH>8.5 TSS <5mg/L 3 Sediment dam 3 (SD3) Wet weather discharge During wet weather discharge Conductivity, Nitrate, Nitrogen (total), Oil and Grease, ph, Phosphorous (total), Reactive Phosphorous, TSS Oil and Grease <1mg/L 6.5<pH>8.5 TSS <5mg/L 44

45 4 Sediment dam 4 (SD4) 6 Ephemeral water course upstream (SW2) 19 Mine Water dam 2 (MW2) 36 Nagero dam (SD6) 37 Sediment dam 2 (SD2) 38 Sediment dam 3 (SD3) 39 Sediment dam 4(SD4) 4 Sediment dam 23 (SD23) 41 Mine water dam 3 (MW3) 42 Sediment dam 23 (SD23) Wet weather discharge Ambient water quality Surface water quality Surface water quality Surface water quality Surface water quality Surface water quality Wet weather discharge Surface water quality Surface water quality During wet weather discharge During wet weather discharge Conductivity, Nitrate, Nitrogen (total), Oil and Grease, ph, Phosphorous (total), Reactive Phosphorous, TSS Conductivity, Nitrate, Nitrogen (total), Oil and Grease, ph, Phosphorous (total), Reactive Phosphorous, TSS Oil and Grease < 1mg/L 6.5<pH>8.5 TSS <5mg/L No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL During wet weather discharge Conductivity, Nitrate, Nitrogen (total), Oil and Grease, ph, Phosphorous (total), Reactive Phosphorous, TSS Oil and Grease <1mg/L 6.5<pH>8.5 TSS <5mg/L Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Quarterly Conductivity, ph No limit specified in EPL Table 13: Surface water monitoring sites and frequencies 45

46 TSS (mg/l) Results Wet weather discharge Boggabri Coal had one wet weather discharge event during the reporting period on 25 th November 211. Monitoring during this discharge event was completed at five locations for the parameters specified in the table above. The results of ph and conductivity monitoring completed during this discharge event are shown in the two figures below. No oil and grease was detected in any of the samples taken during the wet weather discharge. ph SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Limit (high) Limit (Low) Figure 24: Wet weather discharge ph results SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Limit Figure 25: Wet weather discharge total suspended solids results As the figure above shows, the 5mg/L criterion for total suspended solids during a wet weather discharge was exceeded at all five monitoring sites. The following explanation is provided as to why this exceedence is not considered a non-compliance. The storm event at Boggabri Coal Mine leading up to the wet weather discharge on 25th November 211 exceeded the intensity and duration 46

47 Nitrate (mg/l) Electrical Conductivity (µs/cm) criteria in Boggabri Coal s approved water management system design. The design criteria specify that sediment dams must be able to contain runoff from a 38.4mm storm event that occurs over a period of five days. It can then be inferred that the wet weather discharge criteria in Boggabri Coal s EPL is only applicable for wet weather events (including storms) where less than 38.4mm falls over a period of five days or more. The storm event leading up to the wet weather discharge on 25 th November produced 145mm of rainfall over a four day period, exceeding the sediment dam design capacity for water retention. The 5mg/L criterion for total suspended solids is therefore not applicable. Analysis of all other wet weather discharge parameters (that do not have any specific concentration limits listed in Boggabri Coal s EPL), was undertaken as required during the wet weather discharge event on 25 th November 211. Sampling results for conductivity, nitrate, total nitrogen, and total phosphorous and reactive phosphorous are shown in the figures below SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Figure 26: Wet weather discharge electrical conductivity SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Figure 27: Wet weather discharge concentration of nitrate 47

48 Phosphorus (mg/l) Nitrogen (mg/l) SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Figure 28: Wet weather discharge concentration of total nitrogen SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Figure 29: Wet weather discharge concentration of total phosphorus 48

49 Reactive Phosphorus (mg/l) SW2 SD2 SD3 SD6 SD23 25/11/211 Figure 3: Wet weather discharge concentration of reactive phosphorus Ambient and Surface Water Quality Monitoring Monitoring for surface water and ambient water quality during the reporting period was completed for all parameters and at all required intervals specified in Boggabri Coal s EPL. There were no noncompliances recorded for ambient or surface water quality monitoring. Ambient water quality monitoring was undertaken once during the reporting period on 25th November 211 at a single monitoring point in the ephemeral water course upstream of the mine site (SW2). This monitoring was triggered by the wet weather discharge undertaken on that date. For comparison, results of this monitoring are included in the wet weather discharge graphs above. Surface water quality monitoring was undertaken quarterly during the reporting period at six of the seven designated monitoring points (MW2, SD2, SD6, MW3, SD4, and SD23). The sample site SD3 was only sampled once during the reporting period due to it being empty during the three other quarterly monitoring events. A total of twenty-five samples were obtained during the reporting period. Quarterly monitoring was undertaken for ph and conductivity. Results of this monitoring are shown in the figures below. 49

50 Electrical Conductivity (µs/cm) ph 4 2 Q2, 211 Q3, 211 Q4, 211 Q1, 212 MW2 SD2 SD6 MW3 SD4 SD23 SD3 Figure 31: Quarterly surface water ph results Q2, 211 Q3, 211 Q4, 211 Q1, 212 MW2 SD2 SD6 MW3 SD4 SD23 SD3 Figure 32: Quarterly surface water electrical conductivity results 5

51 3.3.3 Groundwater Figure 33: MW3 June 211 BC s current groundwater monitoring network consists of 14 monitoring bores screened across different geology units. The following aquifers are currently monitored: Alluvium associated with ephemeral water course Boggabri Volcanics at the foot of the hills, down gradient of the mine Maules Creek Formation Merriown seam Bollol Creek seam Braymont seam Jeralong seam Monitoring Mean sample depth (metres) Depth (metres) Screened geology IBC Merriown coal seam IBC Jeralong coal seam IBC Braymont coal seam IBC Merriown coal seam IBC Boggabri Volcanics IBC Boggabri Volcanics (weathered) IBC Bollol Creek coal seam IBC Merriown coal seam 51

52 Metres Metres IBC Merriown coal seam IBC Merriown coal seam GW n/a Boggabri Volcanics (weathered) MW6 2 n/a Alluvium BC Merriown coal seam BC Braymont coal seam Table 14: Monitoring bores screened geology Field parameters (ph, EC, TDS and temperature) are monitored for each monitoring well and are collected on a quarterly basis. Laboratory samples are collected on a six monthly basis and are monitored for major ions, metals and nutrients. Field parameters and groundwater levels were monitored by BC in May 211, July 211, October 211 and January 212. A full laboratory analysis of groundwater samples was completed in July 211 and January 212. Monitoring bores IBC2114, IBC2138 and BC2193 were dry in January 212 and could not be sampled. No field parameters were recorded for MW6 in October 211 due to a bore obstruction preventing sampling. Groundwater Level Groundwater level monitoring over the reporting period indicates the decreasing groundwater levels in most monitoring bores close to the mining operations are the result of mine dewatering. However, two monitoring bores showed groundwater level increases for the reporting year. Down gradient of the mining lease, groundwater levels increased slightly as a result of above average rainfall Bollol Creek seam Braymont seam IBC2114 IBC214 BC

53 ph ph Metres Metres Metres Metres Jeralong seam Boggabri Volcanics Standing Water Level IBC213 GW3115 IBC211 IBC Merriown seam Alluvium IBC212 IBC215 IBC2115 IBC2138 IBC2139 BC2181 MW6 Groundwater ph Figure 34: Bore hole standing water level categorised by seam ph values for all monitoring bores in the reporting period are within the guidelines for stock and irrigation use; ANZECC (2)except for IBC2139 in May 211. The May value at IBC2139 is the highest recorded since monitoring began and may not be representative of groundwater conditions as subsequent monitoring determined a near neutral ph Bollol Creek seam Braymont seam IBC2114 IBC214 BC

54 ph ph ph ph Jeralong seam Boggabri Volcanics ph IBC213 GW3115 IBC211 IBC Merriown seam Alluvium IBC212 IBC215 IBC2115 IBC2138 IBC2139 BC2181 MW6 Figure 35: Bore hole ph categorised by seam Groundwater Electrical Conductivity EC in the alluvium ranged between 198 and 23 µs/cm which is below the lower limit guidelines and comparable to historical results. EC values in the Maules Creek formation are below the lower limit guidelines for ANZECC (2) irrigation use at all monitoring bores. Monitoring bores to the north of the mine (IBC212, IBC213, IBC214, IBC215, IBC2138 and BC2181) had the lowest ECs for the reporting period, ranging from 47 to 16 µs/cm. Monitoring bores IBC212, IBC213, IBC214 and IBC215 are showing decreasing trends for EC. EC in the monitoring bores located to the east of the mine (IBC2114, IBC2115, IBC2139 and BC2193) ranged from 174 to 265 µs/cm for the reporting period. IBC2139 is showing a decreasing EC trend and IBC2115 is showing and increasing EC trend. In the Boggabri volcanic the highest EC for the reporting period was measured at GW3115 in October 211 Located approximately 2.5km west of the mine. EC at GW3115 is within the ANZECC guidelines for irrigation use and has remained consistent since monitoring commenced. Monitoring bores IBC211 and IBC2111 had ECs in the range of 167 to 226 µs/cm with IBC2111 having slightly higher EC. IBC211 and IBC2111 are showing long term increasing trends in EC. 54

55 Micro Siemens Microsiemens Micro Siemens Micro Siemens Micro Siemens Micro Siemens 25 Bollol Creek seam 3 Braymont seam IBC2114 IBC214 BC Jeralong seam Boggabri Volcanics Electrical Conductivity IBC213 GW3115 IBC211 IBC Merriown seam Alluvium IBC212 IBC215 IBC2115 IBC2138 IBC2139 BC2181 MW6 Figure 36: Bore hole electrical conductivity categorised by seam Groundwater Temperature Seasonal temperature variations can be observed in all bores, and the temperatures recorded are in line with last year s results, except at BC2181 in January 212 where temperature was the highest recorded since monitoring began. 55

56 Degrees Celcius Degrees Celsius Degrees Celcius Degrees Celcius Degrees Celcius Degrees Celcius Bollol Creek seam Braymont seam IBC2114 IBC214 BC Jeralong seam Boggabri Volcanics Temperature IBC213 GW3115 IBC211 IBC2111 Merriown seam Alluvium IBC212 IBC215 IBC2115 IBC2138 IBC2139 BC2181 MW6 Figure 37: Bore hole temperature categorised by seam Groundwater Major Ions The following long term major ion trends were identified after the monitoring period: Maules Creek Formation: IBC212: decreasing trends for sulphate, chloride, magnesium and sodium, related to overall decrease in salinity IBC213: decreasing trends for sulphate and sodium, increasing trend for calcium and magnesium, consistent with sulphate reduction and ion exchange process IBC214: decreasing trends for sulphate and sodium, related to overall decrease in salinity IBC215: decreasing trends for sulphate, chloride, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium, related to overall decrease in salinity 56

57 mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l IBC2115: decreasing trend for potassium and increasing trend for chloride, related to an increase in salinity IBC2139: decreasing trend for sulphate and potassium Long-term trends were not detected for any other major ions. Boggabri Volcanics: IBC211: decreasing trends for sulphate, chloride, calcium and magnesium, increasing trend for sodium. IBC2111: increasing trends for chloride, calcium and magnesium, decreasing trend for sulphate Long term major ion trends at IBC211 and IBC2111 are consistent with overall increases in salinity and reverse ion exchange processes Bicarbonate Alkalinity Jan-8 Jul Total Alkalinity as CaCO3 Jan-8 Jul-8 8 Jan-9 8 Jan-9 6 Jul-9 6 Jul-9 4 Jan-1 4 Jan-1 2 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 2 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Jan Sulfate as SO4 2- Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul Chloride Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Jan Calcium Jan Magnesium Jan Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Jan-12 57

58 mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l Sodium Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul Potassium Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Jan-12 Figure 38: Major ion trends BCM monitoring wells Groundwater Metals Groundwater samples obtained from the monitoring bores were analysed for the following dissolved metals: arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel zinc and iron. Concentrations of metals in most monitoring bores were below laboratory detection limits. Maules Creek Formation: Dissolved metal concentrations were below ANECC (2) guidelines for irrigation and stock for all metals with the exception of iron. Iron levels were above the guideline concentrations for IBC212, IBC213, IBC215, IBC211, IBC2138 and BC2181. Elevated iron concentrations are typical for the Boggabri area. Long term increasing trends were identified at monitoring bore IBC212 for iron. Long term decreasing trends were identified at IBC2114 for arsenic. Long term decreasing trends for arsenic and iron and an increasing trend for zinc were identified at IBC2115. Boggabri Volcanics: Dissolved metal concentrations were below ANZECC (2) guidelines for irrigation and stock for all metals with the exception of iron. Iron concentrations were highest at GW3115 likely due to the presence of a rusting steel bore casing. Iron concentrates were below guidelines at IBC2111. A long term increasing trend for zinc was identified at IBC211; these concentrations are still below guidelines Iron Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Arsenic Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 58

59 mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l mg/l Cadmium Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Chromium Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Jan-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Copper Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Lead Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Nickel Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul Zinc Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Jan-12 Groundwater Nutrients Figure 39: Heavy metal trends BCM monitoring wells Groundwater samples obtained from all monitoring bores in July 211 and January 212 were analysed for the following nutrients: ammonia as N, nitrite as N, nitrate as N, total N, total P and reactive P None of the monitoring bores recorded nitrogen, nitrate or nitrite values over the ANZECC, (2) guideline limit. The following bores exceeded the guideline for total phosphorus of.5mg/l, IBC213, IBC214, IBC2193 (Maules Creek formation), IBC211 and IBC2111 (Boggabri Volcanics). 59

60 mg/l mg/l Increasing trends for ammonia were recorded for monitoring bores IBC211, IBC213 and IBC2139. Increasing trends for nitrate were recorded at IBC2111 and IBC2114. These are still below guidelines Ammonia as N Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan Nitrite + Nitrate as N Jan-8 Jul-8 Jan-9 Jul-9 Feb-1 Jul-1 Jan-11 Jul-11 Jan-12 Ground water summary Figure 4: Nutrient trends BCM monitoring wells Water quality parameters are generally stable. Water type is variable between monitoring bores. Although statistically significant trends were identified in some of the analysed water quality parameters, they are still well below guideline trigger values and do not represent a significant impact to the environment. The dewatering program does not appear to be impacting on local groundwater quality. Piezometer rehabilitation program In January 212 a piezometer rehabilitation program was carried out, the recommendations and results of this program have been tabled below. BC_Id Total Depth Target SWL Comments Recommendation BC MN NR Clear water - good flow Measure BC BR Dirty - negligible water Rehabilitate IBC MN 51.6 Cloudy Water Measure IBC JE 5.9 Dirty water - failed piezometer Redrill IBC BR 45.7 Clear water - moderate flow Measure IBC MN 57 Clear water - good flow Measure IBC211 1 BGV 11.3 Clear water - moderate flow Measure IBC BGV 1.5 Milky water - moderate flow Measure IBC MN No access - not rehabilitated IBC BC Dirty - negligible water Relocate IBC MN 81.8 Clear water - moderate flow Relocate IBC MN Dry Rehabilitate IBC MN 66.3 Clear water - moderate flow Relocate MW6 AL Damage to cap not rehabilitated Repair Table 15: Results of piezometer rehabilitation program January 212 6

61 3.4 Flora and Fauna Management and Performance DPI Fisheries Resnagging Program Approximately 1 logs were contributed to DPI fisheries resnagging works along the Boggabri Reach of the Namoi River in June / July 211. Suitable logs from the tree clearing programme which commenced on 17 January 212 will be stored for future use. No suitable logs were identified for the reporting period Ecological Monitoring Specialist consultant ecologists from Parsons Brinckerhoff have been engaged to perform regular ecological monitoring. This monitoring relates to the general impacts of mining activities on native vegetation, fauna habitats and biodiversity within Leard State Forest and does not relate to monitoring of the rehabilitation program. There have been seven ecological monitoring survey sessions completed to date. Session February 26 Session May 26 Session 3 29 March 6 April 27 Session May 28 Session January 29 Session May 21 Session July 211 The surveys for monitoring session seven followed the same method for the first six sessions. The four replicate survey sites established previously within Leard State Forest and within each of the two control locations were used again for this session. Sample sites within Leard State Forest and within each of two main vegetation types likely to be affected Ironbark Woodland and White Box Woodland. These sites were located generally around the mine site at varying distances. Survey sites at the control locations were selected, where possible, within comparable vegetation types, or at a minimum comparable vegetation structures. Statistical Analysis No statistical analysis has been completed on the data collected during survey session 7. Previous analyses suggest that the design has sufficient power in order to detect changes in biodiversity features of the site in response to mining activities should they occur. This session (session 7) concludes the existing monitoring program (26 211), with the program to be expanded to increase monitoring locations in Leard State Forest (impact site) and increase monitoring locations at control sites to encompass new areas such as acquired offset properties. Summary and Recommendations As with previous sessions, session seven recorded a high diversity of species in most survey techniques. The data collected provides good information on the biodiversity of Leard State Forest and the opportunity to continue monitoring potential changes in biodiversity values as a result of ongoing mining activities. 61

62 Table 16: Survey, site locations and transect orientation for session 7 ( July 211) 62

63 Figure 41: Ecological survey sites in Leard State Forest 63

64 Figure 42: Ecological survey sites at Rocklea 64

65 Figure 43: Ecological survey sites in Vickery State Forest 65

66 mm/s 3.5 Rehabilitation and Land Management and Performance Revegetation Rehabilitation aspects of the current MOP have, and will be progressively developed and implemented through the mine life with consideration given to the Strategic Framework for Mine Closure developed by the Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council. Details of revegetation and rehabilitation undertaken during the reporting period are extensively covered in section 5 of this report. 3.6 Noise, Blast and Vibration Management and Performance Environmental approval and sign off is part of the pre blast clearance permit. This includes monitoring of weather conditions; wind speed and direction, and a temperature inversion check (temp@2m and 1m above ground level) Blast Peak Vibration Monitoring for blast overpressure and peak vibration has been conducted for every BCM blast initiated to date. Monitoring results indicate that all blasts have complied with the EPL1247 limits for peak vibration as measured at both monitoring locations, Bollol Creek Station and Greenhills Bollol Creek Peak Vibration Greenhills Peak Vibration Peak Vibration Limit Bollol Creek no Trigger Greenhills no Trigger Figure 44:Peak vibration summary Blast Overpressure During the reporting period there have been two blasts that have exceeded the acceptable limit for peak overpressure of 115dBA. Blast 341 recorded 118.7dB at Bollol Creek and Blast 347 recorded 117.4dB at Greenhills. Explanations of the exceedences are tabled below. 66

67 dba Shot Number Date Time Overpressure db Explanation BG341 23/11/ am Anfo shot was blasted as requested by DEDIM at 9.25 due to mine being closed due to severe rain event. After investigation it appears that the very low cloud cover and very heavy atmosphere contributed to the overpressure at Bollol Creek measuring station BG347 6/1/ pm Heavy Anfo shot was fired in the box cut and it appears that two or more re-drilled holes had ejected through the originally drilled holes which could not be found and were unable to be backfilled with gravel Table 17: Summary of blast overpressure exceedences As only 2 of 83 blasts were in the 115 db to 12 db (lin peak) range, they fall within the acceptable limits range of 5% allowable as per EPL Bollol Creek Peak Overpressure Peak Overpressure Limit Greenhills no Trigger Greenhills Peak Overpressure Bollol Creek no Trigger Figure 45: Peak overpressure summary Noise Monitoring Boggabri Coal Mine engaged a specialist consultant (Spectrum Acoustics Pty Ltd) to monitor operational noise levels in accordance with the requirements of EPL Compliance monitoring was undertaken on a quarterly basis during the months of March, June, September and December 211 at nine prescribed locations as listed in Table 18 below. The location referred to as The Rock was subject to noise monitoring during the March, June and September monitoring events. The property was purchased by BCM in mid 211 which removed the 67

68 need to conduct further noise monitoring at this location. No measurements were taken at The Rock during the December monitoring events. No noise monitoring was conducted at Belleview for the duration of the reporting period as the landholder did not permit access. Additionally no noise monitoring was conducted at the locations associated with the rail loop during March, June or September as train movements did not occur for several days either side of each of the survey periods. EPA Identification Number Operational noise monitoring locations Closest project component N1 Goonbri Boggabri Coal Mine N2 Greenhills Boggabri Coal Mine N3 Bollol Creek Station Boggabri Coal Mine N4 Templemore Boggabri Coal Mine N6 Tarrawonga Boggabri Coal Mine N7 Cooboobindi Private coal haul road N/A The Rock Private coal haul road N9 Hazeldene Rail loop N11 Roma Rail loop Table 18: Operational noise monitoring locations All quarterly monitoring events were recorded at each location during a day, evening and night period. This consisted of a minimum 1.5 hour measurement duration during the day (between 7am to 6 pm Mon Sat and 8am to 6 pm Sunday and Public Holidays), a minimum 3 minute recording duration for the evening (between 6 pm to 1 pm) and minimum 1 hour recording duration at night (between 1 pm to 7am Mon Sat and 1 pm to 8 am Sunday and Public Holidays). For the March, June and September noise monitoring events, day, evening and night noise measurements for each site were recorded through a single 24 hour period. Following the June 211 variation of EPL 1247, the noise monitoring methodology was modified, whereby monitoring was undertaken over three consecutive days. The December monitoring events were conducted in line with this amendment and completed on the 18 th 21 st December 211. For all residences, the operational noise criterion as established in EPL 1247 is: 35 db(a) Leq (15 min) during day, evening and night 45 db(a) Leq (1 min) during the night (sleep disturbance criterion). The above noise limits apply under all meteorological conditions except for the following: wind speeds greater than 3 m/s at 1 m above ground level stability category F temperature inversion conditions and wind speeds greater than 2 m/s at 1 m above ground level stability category G temperature inversion conditions. 68

69 db(a) Results In total, 126 noise measurements were recorded over the reporting period. Of these, seven Leq (15 min) measurements were recorded as being above 35 db(a) and no Leq (1 min) measurements were greater than 45 db(a) at any time. All noise monitoring results are displayed in Figure 46 to Figure 52 below. Upon analysis of meteorological data taken at the time of noise measurements, it was confirmed that G-class temperature inversion conditions were present at the time of each of the seven monitoring events that recorded measurements above the 35dB (A) compliance limit. In accordance with EPL 1247, these elevated levels were therefore not considered to be non-compliances Goonbri Greenhills Bollol Creek Station Templemore Tarrawonga 35 db(a) Limit Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 46: Daytime Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine 69

70 db(a) db(a) Goonbri Greenhills Bollol Creek Station Templemore Tarrawonga 35 db(a) Limit 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 47: Evening Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine Goonbri Greenhills Bollol Creek Station Templemore Tarrawonga 35 db(a) Limit 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 48: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby Boggabri Coal Mine 7

71 db(a) db(a) Cooboobindi The Rock 35 db(a) Limit 1 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 49: Daytime Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road Cooboobindi The Rock 35 db(a) Limit 1 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 5: Evening Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road 71

72 db(a) db(a) Cooboobindi The Rock 35 db(a) Limit 1 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 51: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the private coal haul road Hazeldene Roma 35 db(a) Limit 1 5 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Figure 52: Night Leq (15 min) at locations nearby the rail loop 72

73 3.7 Hydrocarbon and Contaminated Land Management and Performance General All hydrocarbons are stored on site are in double skinned self bunded tanks. No reportable spills of hydrocarbons occurred during the reporting period and all wastes are removed from site by a licensed waste contractor. 3.8 Aboriginal Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management and Performance In August 211 an Aboriginal Archaeology Assessment was prepared for the Modification 2 development consent application. The assessment process included some test excavations to identify the potential for sub surface stone artefacts (photo below). The test excavations found 4 stone artefacts and the landform unit in which these were found was recorded on the Office of Environment and Heritage's Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (site no ). The assessment identified the requirement for an AHIP (Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit no ) which was issued on 11 January 212. The AHIP authorised salvage, excavations and community collections of known and anticipated objects prior to the expansion of the pit. Figure 53: Aboriginal archaeological test excavations August 211 Sites of significance identified during the 26 archaeological survey continue to be maintained and protected. 73

74 3.9 Public Safety Management and Performance Mine Access Roads The designated access route to the Boggabri Mine is from the Kamilaroi Highway north of Boggabri via the Manilla Road (MR357) and the Leard Forest Road (SR12). Both of these roads are now fully sealed. The Manilla Road section of the route was sealed in mid 28 and the Leard Forest Road section sealing was completed in early 29. This upgrade has vastly improved the safety of both roads and eliminated any dust being generated. The at grade crossings of Therribri and Leard Forest Roads provide right of way to the oversize haul trucks. Electronically operated boom gates restrict access of public vehicles to the haul road and signage plus flashing lights that commence upon the approach of the haul trucks warn motorists on the Shire Roads of coal trucks approaching the haul road intersections. No accidents have been recorded at either intersection. Numerous observations have been made by BCM personnel of Shire Road traffic failing to observe the installed intersection signage. A traffic management plan for the relocation of topsoil across the Leard Forest road was designed and implemented after consultation with both the Maules Creek community and NSC. This activity started in September 21 and is ongoing on an as needs basis Livestock Health and Pest Authority Provision has been made for the safe and efficient movement of stock to the satisfaction of the NSC and Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) along Travelling Stock Reserve #8399 which is dissected by the private coal haul road. These included the construction of fenced and locked gate laneways, and secure holding pens located on the both sides of the haul road crossing Mine Site Security Security cameras have been installed at the infrastructure areas to improve security on site. There has been no breach of security during the reporting period Fire Management The lighting of fires on the BCM site is strictly prohibited and daily inspections are conducted by the Open Cut Examiner to ensure that any bush fire hazards are immediately dealt with. All welding on site is performed under the provisions of site issued hot work permits. All mine vehicles are equipped with fire extinguishers and the two 17kL capacity water trucks have fire fighting capabilities. These water trucks are always kept full of water when not in use, in readiness should fire fighting be required Site Lighting Deployment of lighting plants for night work is done with due consideration so as to minimise any fugitive light leaving the sight and affecting any neighbouring areas beyond CL

75 4. COMMUNITY RELATIONS 4.1 Workforce At the end of the reporting period the Boggabri Mine workforce consisted of 367 permanent and 62 contract staff. This is an increase of 159 since the same time last year. Local people are employed at the Boggabri Mine wherever possible. The figure below shows the residential location of the permanent workforce at BCM. In this instance, a town refers to the township itself and surrounding rural areas. Narrabri 6% 3% 3% 7% 15% 13% 16% 37% Gunnedah Boggabri/Baan Baa Tamworth Curlewis Manilla Other NW NSW areas Other areas of NSW Figure 54: Workforce residential locality summary Community Complaints There were 6 complaints registered during the reporting period. These incidents are listed in the table below. Complaint number Date Description BC12 25/2/211 Excessive dust being raised by both Boggabri and Tarrawonga mines BC13 12/5/211 Excessive dust on Sunday night 8/5/211 and Monday morning 9/5/211 BC14 21/6/211 Excessive dust BC15 5/7/211 Excessive noise Excessive noise on Wednesday night 11/5/211 BC16 29/8/211 Excessive noise from reversing truck beepers early morning BC17 23/11/211 Loud blast coming from East Boggabri Mine. Shook trees and moved the walls of the house Table 19: Summary of complaints 75

76 All complaints have been followed up and detailed reports filed in the BC complaints register on site. In July 211 a community hotline was set up and has been extensively advertised in both Narrabri and Gunnedah local newspapers. 4.3 Community Liaison Boggabri Coal continues to consult with the public and the following bodies to monitor the impacts of mine operations upon the local community. Narrabri Shire Council Gunnedah Shire Council Federal & State Members of Parliament Roads and Traffic Authority NSW Livestock Health and Pest Authority Narrabri Boggabri Business Development Group Environment Protection Authority Forests NSW Red Chief Local Aboriginal Land Council Gunidah Gunyah CDEP Boggabri Service Clubs i.e. Lions, Rotary, HACC, RSL, SES, RFS NSW Police NSW Ambulance Narrabri TAFE Maules Creek Community Council During the reporting period the Boggabri Coal Community Consultative Committee met four times. These meetings were all well attended and the delegates all took an active part in discussions and were kept informed of all developments at BCM. 5. REHABILITATION 5.1 Buildings No building rehabilitation has been undertaken during the reporting period. 5.2 Rehabilitation of Disturbed Land To date approximately, 63ha of overburden emplacement had undergone treatment to final landform slope of 1 degrees and topsoiled to a depth of 1mm, of which 5.2 Ha remains to be planted with 416 trees in April 212. The long term rehabilitation objective is to re-establish native vegetation commensurate with commercial native forestry, while at the same time establishing suitable ecological functioning habitats. 76

77 5.3 Other infrastructure No other rehabilitation works have been carried out at the Boggabri Mine other than those already mentioned in this report. 5.4 Rehabilitation Trials and Research BCM is engaged in rehabilitation operations for its mining works Species Trials One of the principal objectives of the 28 tree plantings was to trial a number of different species so that large scale plantings planned for subsequent years would be able to draw on these findings. A total of 15 species used in the 28 plantings were tested in four formal trials, each with four replications. Figure 55: 28 upper South planting at 36 months May 211 Species trials are ongoing. The most recent measuring and monitoring event took place on the 3 rd and 4 th of May 211 to measure and analyse the species trials planted in April 28 and the fertiliser trial planted in April 21. Advice on the rehabilitation processes has been provided by David Boden of Boden & Associates. Other objectives of the site visit in May were to: To review the growth of the trees planted in 28, 29 and 21 and to advise on appropriate follow up operations To advise on the planting operations undertaken during the course of this visit 77

78 Figure 56 Upper west trial at 25 months (left) and 36 months (right) Figure 57: Lower south trial at 25 months (left) and 36 months (right) Fertilizer Trials A trial plot of three eucalypt species (E. crebra, E. pilligaensis and E. Albens) were planted in May 21 and four different fertilizer applications rates were used. MAP fertilizer was applied at planting 25cm from the seedlings and buried. The different rates are shown in the figure below which shows plant growth rates in the trial plot twelve months after planting. 78

79 Planting year Mean Canopy Height (Max E.albens) 1 m Over-storey cover % Shrub cover % Ground cover % Exotic Cover % Native species richness Exotic Species richness Box Gum Woodland species EPBC Act ( important ) Mean tree height (m) Response at 12 months of 3 eucalypt species to fertiliser at planting : Boggabri mine rehabilitation Overall pilligaensis crebra albens T-no fert T1-1g MAP T2-2g MAP T3-4g MAP Fertiliser treatment Figure 58: Species response to fertilszer at planting Biodiversity Monitoring Vegetation The monitoring program for the rehabilitation is currently being developed as part of the detailed rehabilitation management plans for the Boggabri Coal mine. In 211 initial baselines flora and fauna filed surveys were completed within the 12 month and 36 month old rehabilitation trials to assess the condition and fauna utilisation of current rehabilitation. These surveys utilised 2 x 2 metre floristic sample plots within each of the staged Boggabri Coal s existing rehabilitation (12 and 36 months old). The results of this monitoring session are provided in the table below. 12 months 36 months.84 (1.) (4) 2.7 (5.) (4) 1 = Corresponds with the species, Eucalyptus albens Table 2: Vegetation condition within existing rehabilitation areas Fauna habitats In addition to the floristic monitoring, a baseline fauna survey within the existing Boggabri Coal rehabilitation was also completed to assess potential habitat qualities. 79

80 The results of recent monitoring surveys utilising point census bird surveys within 2 x 2 metre sample plots within Boggabri Coal s existing rehabilitation (12 and 36 months old) is provided in the table below. Planting year Native Bird Species (Diversity) Native Mammals Fauna Habitats Threatened species 12 months 15 1 Understoreys foraging species 36 months 16 2 Bird nest present, understorey shelter and foraging habitats. Eucalypt flowering Speckled Warbler Speckled Warbler, Brown Tree Creeper Table 21: Fauna species diversity and habitats within existing rehabilitation areas The utilisation of these habitats by fauna species will be further verified and assessed through the development of a detailed monitoring program. Figure 59: Fauna nesting of woodland bird in existing Boggabri Coal Mine rehabilitation Management strategies Management strategies to date have included the above mentioned trials which incorporate assessments of fertiliser, species, water retention, runoff, optimal planting times, quality and quantity of topsoil and ripping mounding techniques (Boden & Associates 211). While the initial rehabilitation trials focused on the restoration of optimal commercial timbers for forestry, the current and future rehabilitation will be principally targeting biodiversity conservation and restoration of the Threatened Box Gum Woodland community and habitats for Threatened species. 8

81 Figure 6: Natural regeneration of native species in the 28 plantings Plantings A total was 15 ha were planted in May-June 211. The same species and planting arrangement was used as for the 21 plantings. Planting was slow as site conditions were in parts very uneven where the recent mounding operation had cut into the heavy clay subsoil and resulted in large clods. The good rains of late May improved planting conditions and should continue to result in good establishment. Observations of the natural regeneration over the last 3 years of tree planting reveal a healthy development of native species germinating from the topsoil. The germination and diversity of species has increased in the last two years in the absence of Rhodes grass. Figure 61: 21 plantings at 12 months 81

82 5.4.6 Planning for Future Plantings BC has continued to collect seed from the surrounding Leard State Forest, these seeds are sent to Narromine Native Nursery for propagation and the seedlings then returned to site for planting. 5.2Ha have been prepared for planting 416 trees in April 212. In general, observations of the natural regeneration over the four years of tree planting reveal a healthy development of native species germinating from the topsoil (Boden & Associates 211). These results demonstrate the potential rehabilitation success at the existing Boggabri Coal Mine and further demonstrate the likely colonisation of the mine rehabilitation by fauna species in succession after rehabilitation occurs. Figure 62: Aerial view of rehabilitated areas January Further Development of the Final Rehabilitation Plan Not applicable at this time. 6. ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN THE NEXT AEMR PERIOD 6.1 Activities proposed in 212 Activities proposed by Boggabri Coal in 211 include: Construct pipeline connecting MW2 and SD23 to the existing SD3 to MW3 pipeline Stage 1 of the proposed irrigation area Planting 8,8 tree seedlings as part of ongoing mine rehabilitation program Construction of water management structures as required for water management on the mine site Clearing of a further 5 Ha of the Leard State Forest as per the MOP 82