EIS 437

ABO19 109

Proposed Drayton Coal Mine

NS EPT p1R? 1MUSTR1ES

ABO1 9109

Proposed Drayton Coal Mine

AEIiI It•JJU NJITYILP

Department of Environment & Planning Sydney Office

September 1980 80/41

n 11kc / DX425:

Proposed Drayton Coal Mine

ASSESSMENT

LIARY

EIS 437

Department of Environment & Planning Sydney Office

September 1980 80/41

ISBN 7240 4546 5

PROPOSED DRAYTON COAL MINE - MUSWELLBROOK ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS S ESS MEN

CONTENTS PAGE NO

INTRODUCTION 3

PROPOSED OPERATIONS 3

2.1 Open Cut Operations 4

2.2 Steaming Coal Preparation Plant and 5 Handling Facilities

2.3 Spur Railway 5

2.4 Fixed Installations and Facilities 6

2.5 Future Mining and Facilities 6

3.0 ADEQUACY OF IMPACT STATEMENT 6

4.0 REVIEW OF SUBMISSIONS 7

5.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 15

5.1 Site Environs 15

5.2 Geology 15

5.3 Soils and Erosion 15

5.4 Climate and Air Quality 15

5.5 Hydrology and Water Quality 16

5.6 Flora, Fauna and Archaeology 17

5.7 Land Use 17

5.8 Demography 17

6.0 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AND RELATED SAFEGUARDS 18

6.1 Water Management 18

6.2 Air Quality Protection 21

6.3 Noise 23

6.4 Social Impact 24

6.5 Coal Transport 24

6.6 Reclamation and Final Land Use 24

6.7 Aesthetics 25

6.8 Biological Impacts 26

7. ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF PROPOSAL 26

7.1 Water Quality 26

7.2 Air Quality 28

7.3 Noise Control 28

7.4 Social Impact and Regional Context 30

7.5 Coal Transport 30

7.6 Reclamation and Final Use 30

7.7 Aesthetics 31

7.8 Biological 31

7.9 Monitoring 31 7.10 Interaction With Bayswater Colliery Operations 32

8. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 32

8.1 General 33 8.2 Recommendations to Muswellbrook Shire Council

8.3 Recommendations to State Pollution 37 Control Commission

8.4 Recommendations to the Department 39 of Mineral Resources

at

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1. INTRODUCTION

The DraytOn Co-Venture, comprising Thiess Bros. Pty. Ltd., Shell Company of Australia Limited and minority partners, proposes to develop the Drayton coal deposit to a peak production level of 3.5 million tonnes of coal per annum during a mining life of 24

years. The proposal includes development of two open cut pits, construction of a branch railway line from Antiene to the site, installation of coal preparation, stacking and reclaiming facilities as well as a rail loop loader and associated surface support structures. Underground mining may be established on the site in the future. Construction of the railway is planned to commence in early 1981 with coal extraction followinq its completion in 1982. All coal production will be transport'd by rail to Newcastle for export.

Thiess Bros. Pty. Ltd., as operators for the co-VenLure, submitted a draft copy of the environmental impact statemeit on 6th March, 1980 to the N.S.W. Planning and Environment Commission for comment. After examination, further information was requested for inclusion in the document. This was supplied and subsequently on 30th April 1980 the Company was informed that the impact statement was considered adequate for public display and assessment. MuswellbroOk Shire Council was requested to defer any determination of development application until the Planning and Environment Commission had completed its assessment. The Commission placed the impact statement on public display from 26th May to 27th June, 1980, and through advertisements in national and local newspapers invited submissions from interested persons and organisationS.

The concurrence of the Planning and Environment Commission was necessary under Clause 20 of Interim Development Order No. 2 MuswellbroOk and Denman, for open cut coal mining operations. Recommendations contained herein are for inclusion as conditions of concurrence by the new Department of Environment and Planning which superseded the Commission on 1st September 1980, in any relevant development application approved by Council. These recommendations are also for consideration by the Department of Mineral Resources and State Pollution Control Commission in the determination of applications for approvals for the development under legislation administered by those

authorities.

2. PROPOSED OPERATIONS

The Co-Venture proposes to mine approximately 63 of coal from two open pits (the west pit and transport the raw coal to a crushing and screening to handle only steaming coal. Coal will be reclaiming and train loading for transport to single track railway will be constructed from

million tonnes east pit) and plant designed stacked before Newcastle. A Antiene to the

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mine site. The general layout of the proposed facilities is shown on an overlay to a photo mosaic in the impact statement. The main components are summarized in the following sections:

2.1 Open Cut Mining Operations

Two open pits are proposed, the west pit and east pit.

The total area to be mined is 618 hectares. An additional 170 hectares of surface land will be modified by reclamation and spoil dumping operations. Depth of the pits will be around 130 metres.

Operations will commence with the west pit, box cut spoil being first placed on the west tip, then on the south tip. After two years, when initial development in the west open cut is completed, the east pit operation will commence. Spoil from this box cut will be placed on the east and south tips.

Overburden will be dug out by draglines integrated with truck and shovel operations. The combined system represents the most efficient means of removing overburden and partings in an area of rolling terrain. Strips will be oriented north-south moving from west to east across the mine lease.

* West Pit Operation.

The west pit involves removal of 66 million tonnes of overburden for extraction of 16.5 million tonnes of coal. One and a half million cubic metres of overburden will be disposed into the west tip, which will be completed and reclaimed after six months while the remainder of the box cut spoil will form part of the south tip. After completion of mining, the west pit will be fully reclaimed.

* East Pit Operation.

The east pit operation will commence in year three with development of a three kilometre long box cut adjacent to the Bayswater Coal Company lease. The east tip will be formed from 10.5 million cubic metres of box cut spoil, taking three years to complete, while the remainder of the box cut spoil will be dumped on the south tip due for completion in year three.

The east pit will be progressively reclaimed as mining proceeds, leaving a final void on cessation of mining. This void will be reshaped and the Co-Venture proposes to turn it into a lake covering eventually 60 hectares.

Run-of-mine coal will be hauled in a fleet of 85 tonnes trucks along a series of haul roads to a coal dump station located on the north-eastern perimeter of the east pit.

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2.2 Steaminq Coal Preparation Plant and Handling Facilities

These facilities, the location criteria for which are given in Section 3.3.1 of the Impact Statement, will consist of:-

* An emergency run-of-mine coal stockpile area to be located adjacent to the dumpstatiori within the limits of the eastern pit. Capacity of the area will be around 50,000 tonnes. Height of the stockpile will be approximately 5 metres.

* A single dump station, bin with automatic level control, and 1600 tph capacity feeder delivering coal to:

* A vibrating screen, separating coal at 150mm with oversize

coal passing through a rotary breaker. Stone discharged from the rotary breaker will be conveyed to a 100 tonnes capacity refuse bin designed for loading 85 tonnes rear ump trucks.

* Two parallel screening and crushing plants to reduce -150mm coal to -38mm size, before being conveyed to:

* A single transfer station designed to direct coal to the stockpile area for stacking out, as well as directing coal to future coal stockpiles, and receiving coal from other sources for transfer to stockpiles.

* A single 2000 tph capacity travelling slewing and luffing stacker capable of forming two stockpiles, each of 100,000 tonnes capacity, and approximately 15 metres high.

* A bridge type-reclaimer of 200 tph capacity able to operate on either stockpile by means of a transfer car, and discharging via reclaim and collecting conveyors to a transfer station for weighing before dropping on to an overland conveyor, for transport 350 metres to:

* Dual 1750 tonnes capacity train loadout bins, situated over the railway line. These will allow an average train loading rate of 4200 tph.

Provision has been made in the layout of the coal handling facilities for a duplication of the dump station, screening, breaking and transfer facilities as well as a coking coal preparation plant should the need arise. The treatment facilities as proposed do not include for washing coal. No fine tailings are produced.

2.3 Spur Railwa

A single track spur railway line will be provided to carry coal to the Main Northern Line zoning it at a location approximately 1.5 kilometres south of Antiene where the double main line commences. The line crosses over the New England Highway by bridge and climbs at a steep but acceptable grade to the mine site where the rail load out facility will consist of a balloon

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loop for the use of unit trains. A junction will allow extension of the line to future mines located to the west. The total length of the line will be 6.8 kilometres. A passing loop will be constructed near Antiene.

The railway will be constructed to State Rail Authority standards. A detailed description of the rail route, embankment and cutting details as well as cut and fill requirements are given in Section 3.4 of the impact statement. The earthworks involved are not insubstantial.

2.4 Fixed Installations and Facilities

Pit head facilities will comprise an administration office, bath-house for approximately 140 persons, workshops for mine plant and stores, and fuel storage as well as parking for 209 cars and mobile plant. Buildings will be of modern design and located amid natural bushland in the north-east corner of the lease.

2.5 Future Mininq and Expansion

Exploration is continuing on the surrounding Authorisation 173 to evaluate potential coal reserves accessible by underground mining methods. Underground mining is currently seen as sequential to open cut operations. Areas that could be subject to underground mining occur north and northeast of the proposed east pit and handling facilties.

An area has been delineated adjacent to the coal stockpile area for a possible future coking coal preparation plant. The stockpile area has allowed for an increase in the number of stockpiles from two to five as production increases. No increase in open cut area is foreshadowed.

3. ADEQUACY OF IMPACT STATEMENT

As a result of its examination of the draft impact statement, the Commission requested certain information to he added to the document to make it adequate for public display and assessment. Matters considered to require further explanation included, the supply of an adequate site layout plan including for access, plans and additional description of surface facilities including coal stockpiles and handling plant, visual impact, delineation of waste rock prone to spontaneous combustion, and measures to prevent same, completion of the water management study, additional details of the proposed spur railway from Antiene and associated loading facilities, additional details of the spoil tips and pertinent data on underground mining and the future washery. This information was accounted for in an amended impact statement which was then considered to be adequate for public display and assessment. Certain aspects of the noise

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study and the ability to achieve acceptable noise levels at nearby residences required resolution by the Company.

4, REVIEW OF SUBMISS IONS

One submission was received from the Chairman of the Muswellbrook District Hospital concerning availability of staff and facilities to handle the expected increase in population. No other submissions were received from the public.

Comments were sought from the following government departients, councils and the N.S.W. Combined Colliery Proprietor's Association. The following are summaries of the main issues raised in the submissions received:

Department of Agriculture

The Department, in an informative and detailed submission commended the Company on the standard of the impact statement, noted some misprints (species names) and ommissions relating to the archaeological survey before expressing concern on the following matters:

* The cumulative impact of mining on the environment had been given insufficient attention and did not appear to have been considered in the other environmental statements covering development activities in the Hunter Valley.

* The agricultural potential of land in the Drayton lease had been accurately described on p32 of the E.I.S., however other comments in the report on agricultural production in the region tended to produce a confusing picture of the main agricultural land uses.

In commending the Company's intention to give due regard to the importance of agriculture in the area, the Department expressed concern at the cumulative loss of land for agriculture, together with the possible effect on quality of water for irrigation.

* Water management proposals appeared to conflict with regard to discharge of water from the lease. The intention to avoid any demands on water supply outside the lease was commended. A close study of the water mangement system by officers competent in this field was recommended.

* With regard to reclamation of spoil dumps, there were strains of lucerne available, resistant to aphides, while sulla (Hedysarum coronarium) was susceptible to the blue-green aphid. The intention to investigate alternative agricultural uses of the reclaimed land was welcomed, as was the proposed livestock capacity improvement.

* It was considered that the responsibilities of the Environmental Control Officer should be more clearly defined.

* Concern was expressed over the loss of agricultural labour to the mining industry generally. Disparity in employment standards between mining and agriculture would present a problem in a farming region subject to large scale mining in the future when there would be competition for labour. A broader socio-economic study was requested to more adequately assess job opportunity requirements and training needs.

Deoartment of Science and Environment

The impact statement was considered to adequately address the impact of the proposal on the environment, while the safeguards and controls outlined would effectively protect the environment. A number of minor points were raised as follows:

* Dust levels as tabled in the impact statement could be re-interpreted to indicate that dust problems may be more significant than indicated.

* Vegetation removed ahead of mining could be mulched and applied to areas being reclaimed.

* The selection of a 1 : 5 0 years, (1 h o u r ) d e s i g n storm would seem more appropriate for a project with a design life of 24 years instead of a 1:10 year, (1 hour) storm. The explanation of the disposal of surplus water was considered to be of limited value.

* It was not clear how leachate affected by saline or acidic materials would be minimised by placement of overburden. No indication has been given of corrective measures if monitoring shows water management models are in error.

* No indication of special treatment to road surfaces contaminated by dust and control by watering had been given.

* The proposal for housing the construction workforce on the outskirts of Muswellbrook need elaboration and Council's comments should be sought.

Muswellbrook Shire Council

Council resolved to support the venture subject to a number of conditions, including comments from the Muswellbrook Shire Environment Committee, as follows:

* That Thiess Bros. Pty. Limited should be requested to consult with Council each six month period in relation to their requirements for land to erect dwellings, and for the provision of rental accommodation to satisfy accommodation requirements for employees.

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* jjle Employee Accommodation - Thiess Bros. Pty. Limited be requested to consult with Council each six month period in relation to the provision of single hostel and caravan accommodation, especially in relation to provision of such accommodation and the conduct of the operation of such provisional accommodation.

* Roads and Access - That Thiess Bros. Pty. Limited should consult with Council as to the use of roads during the construction and use of the mine workings in order that the roads are not damaged or altered without the consent of the Council.

* The operation of the mine should be carried out in such a manner as to comply with the requirements of the State pollution Control Commission in relation to dust emission and pollution of natural water resources.

* Council appended comments from the Muswellbrook Shire Council Environment Committee which Council resolved should be included as part of its comment on the Drayton Environmental Impact Statement. These have been summarized below:

* A total lack of housing exists in Muswellbrook and both caravan parks are taxed to the limit.

* Recreation facilities are already inadequate within the town, particularly summer and social sports.

* The pupil capacity of primary schools in the region is to be increased by provision of demountable structures. St. James Muswellbrook has reached capacity for its site.

* Roads are considered inadequate between Singleton and Muswellbrook.

* particulate fallout was not monitored in the direction of Muswellbrook.

* People living on the Antiene estate will be adversely affected by the mine.

The Committee expressed concern that without co-ordinated effort on the part of the government (at all levels), and mining companies, urban life in Muswellbrook will be reduced to the standard of a slum. It further considered that planning and co-ordination is the role of the Planning and Environment Commission and the Committee expected the Commission to act in accordance with these principles.

With regard to the mine site environment, the Committee raised the following matters:

* Methods for sealing coal seams at completion of mining.

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* Regular monitoring of surface and groundwaters should be carried out, including testing for mercury and fluorides.

* Design and spiliways for dams 2114, 1969, 1944, 1808, 1815 a and b should be based on a 1 in 100 year event not 1 in 50 years, while a 1 in 50 year event should be used for dams designed at present on the basis of a 1 in 10 year event.

* The effect of blasting within 3 kilometres of the lease should be detailed.

* The wetting agent to be used in the stockpile area should be nominated.

* The railway line should be moved 150 metres south, away from the Antiene subdivision.

* Methods for preventing spontaneous combustion and extinguishing fires in coal stockpiles should be nominated together with design considertions including the preservation of moisture build up.

Joint Coal Board

The Board in considering its responsibilities had no adverse comments to make on the proposal.

Electricity Commission of New South Wales

The Commission stated that the proposal has bearing on a number of the Commission's activities at Liddell Power Station and these have been the subject of a continuing liaison between the Co-venture partners and the Commission. The proposed works and their effects would be satisfactory and matters of mutual interest would be the subject of direct negotiations.

State Pollutions Control Commission

The Commission's comments with regard to the proposal are reproduced in full:

On general matters consideration should be given to the following points:

* The need to establish whether a number of plant species, which are not fully or confidently identified, are species or endemic species of limited distribution. Those species listed as Dampiers sp., Lomandra sp., Notelaea sp., Persoonia sp., should be authoritatively identified, and measures should be taken to ensure the preservation of those which are rare or endemic species of limited distribution.

* The need to determine the final usefulness of the site on * completion of the mining operation.

* The need to recognise the possibility that Drayton Dam may suffer deoxygenation, and that levels of dissolved solids may differ from those predicted by the hydrological and chemical model, due to the sensitivity of the model to key input parameters of run-off coefficients, salt pick-ups concentrations and run-off multiplier factors. Deoxygenation and high dissolved solids concentrations may make the dam waters unsuitable for the envisaged future uses of stock watering and as a wildlife refuge. As alternative uses for the final cut exist, the issue is not considered to be a major factor in reviewing the environmental impact.

In respect of air and water controls, SPCC indicated it would have regard to the following matters:

* Emission of dust from blasting and overburden removal.

* Emission of dust from coal handling operations and from stockpiles.

* Emission of dust caused by vehicle movements and by wind action on disturbed areas.

* Discharge of waters contaminated by sediment or high in salinity.

* Discharge of waters from the bath-house.

* Discharge of waters contaminated by oil.

* Chemical characteristics of topsoil, subsoil and rock in relation to their segregation, to control salinization of acidification.

* Methods of placement of overburden.

* Control of drainage after rehabilitation.

The Commission indicated that conditions could be imposed under the Clean Air and Clean Waters Acts such that the project could proceed at the proposed site without undue impact on the surrounding air and water environments. However, no information was given regarding these conditions.

On the other hand, the Commission stated that it was not yet satisfied that the Company had demonstrated acceptable noise levels could be achieved at nearby residences, and until such time as the Company was able to demonstrate that it proposes to incorporate suitable measures in the development, the Commission would not be prepared to grant its approval under the Noise

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Control Act, 1975.

Water Resources Commission

The Commission's comments on water quality and hydrology were as follows:

* The long term consequences of the artifical lake on groundwater levels and movement have not been determined. The Lake at the headwaters of Saddlers Creek (No. 1662) will have a top water level of 200m above sea level which is 6m higher than the current water table. This may result in increased pressure on the saline aquifers which discharge to Saddlers Creek. Increased base flow of saline water down Saddlers Creek will result in higher salinities in the Hunter River. It may be necessary to reduce the top water level of this storage in the long term.

It is proposed in the impact statement that water quality monitoring be undertaken at two points on Saddlers Creek. In view of the possible consequences of the lake on base flow in Saddlers Creek it is suggested that water quality monitoring along this creek should include volume and salinity measurements. In addition, a third water quality monitoring station should be established near its confluence with the Hunter River for the purpose of establishing long term changes in the creek's base flow.

* The maximum estimated groundwater seepage into the mine of 100 ML/year appears to be very low. If the volume of saline seepage is much greater than the stated maximum value then the environmental safeguards set out in the impact statement would no longer apply. In order to protect the water resources of the Hunter Basin, it is considered that, should actual groundwater inflows exceed a volume which can be used on site, resulting in modification of the water management model, the developer should submit details to the Water Resources Commission for assessment. Notwithstanding, contaminated or saline water should not be discharged from the site.

* Separate or isolated piezometers should be provided in subsequent observation bores where initial drilling indicates multiple aquifers.

* The proposal contains a railway link between the mine and the main northern railway line. The formation will cross a number of small streams and the report indicates design criteria of flows of 1 in 50 years recurrence.

There is insufficient data in the report to state whether the railway formation would influence flooding. The developer should therefore submit to this Commission design details of waterway provisions in these crossings.

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* Based on the criteria for "Referable Dams" the developer should submit for appraisal to the Dams Safety Committee details of dams numbered 10, 18 and 20.

State Rail Authorit

The Authority commented on the proposed rail link as follows:

As stated in the impact statement, the development of this mine is to incorporate rail loading facilities.

The design of this rail link has been carried out in accordance with rail standards and has been designed taking into account the grades and curvature requirements for good railway operations. The end result has been the proposal for a high standard railway line, suited to the Authority's operation.

Consequently, this proposal for the development of the mine using rail facilities is supported by the Authority.

National Parks and Wildlife Service

The Service in considering its responsibilities had no adverse comments to make on the proposal. It was further stated that the existence of a colony of koalas within the development area has not been confirmed however, if it is located the Service should be contacted so that the animals concerned can be trapped and relocated.

Department of Mineral Resources

The impact statement was considered to have comprehensively covered mining and rehabilitation aspects for the protection of the environment. The Department raised the following points:

* Monitoring of noise, dust and vibration will be required in the vicinity of the Antiene housing subdivision for realistic assessment and such requirements will be incorpor ted in Conditions to be attached to the lease.

* The proposed lake to fill the final cut in the East Pit would J' require 40 to 70 years to fill. It will be 32 metres deep over most of its area. Some levelling of all the areas which will at some stage form the water's edge will be required either during progressive regrading of the last few lines of overburden or when the final cut is made. The life of the project is more than 21 years, lease renewal at that time will provide an opportunity to reassess the end use of the mine.

* The Company will be required to prepare a fresh environmental impact statement and a separate lease before proceeding with any underground mining to the north east of the present

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authorisation area.

* The proposals for water management and dust control appear to be adequate.

* Due to grade requirements of the State Rail Authority, the rail spur line must be located along the north east boundary of the lease area and no other alternative is evident.

* The Company has planned its operation effectively for maximum utilisation of coal and minimum sterilisation of coal reserves.

* The proposal to mine the East Pit up to the Bayswater boundary line will ensure maximum recovery of reserves.

* The Soil Conservation Service will need to be contacted for advice with regard to pasture establishment.

* Enclosures may be built to reduce the noise level.

Soil Conservation Service

The Service indicated the Department of Mineral Resources consults with the Service on the conditions to be incorported in any lease granted. The Environmental Officer appointed by the Company for the project has been in contact with the Service's officers over the last two years. The Service was consulted during the preparation of the impact statement which incorporates aspects of the Service's work and requirments in regard to mining activities and subsequent rehabilitation.

New South Wales Combined Colliery Proprietors Association

The Association stated that the Drayton proposal was a logical expansion of operations in the Greta Coal Measures and made reference to the following points:

* Operating and screening measures proposed by the Company would not significantly affect the scenic qualities of the region.

* Greta measures are known to be acid-forming generally but the conditions at Drayton appear to be much less severe than the Cessnock/Maitland area, the traditional centre of Greta seam mining previously.

* Considerable experience towards revegetation of the acidic rock waste is available and the present site should not present serious difficulties.

The Association pointed out that the Drayton Co-Venture has already appointed an Environmental Officer to the project in early planning stages and praised the document in general.

5. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

This summary of the existing environment has been compiled from the impact statement, submissions received and investigations by the Department of Environment and Planning.

5.1 Site Environs

The Drayton mine lease, located 12km south of Muswellbrook in the Upper Hunter Valley is within undulating to hilly terrrain, overlooking to the south, Lake Liddell and associated power station developments. The Bayswater No. 2 open cut mine is located immediately west of the east pit area, while Antiene rural subdivision is along the northern boundary of the mine lease, and within the Co-venture's exploration area, A173. Maximum elevation is 330m ASL with relief variation up to 160m. Land subject to disturbance is nearly all above 230m ASL. A radial system of watercourses, with intermittent flows, drain the lease. The open pit areas are mainly covered by poor quality native pasture with light scattered timber. Denser stands of dry sclerophyll forest occur around the northern and western sections of the lease.

5.2 Geology

The Muswellbrook anticline structure trends south from Muswellbrook along the west boundary of the east pit and brings the lower coal measures close to the surface. The measures are correlated with the Greta Coal Measures, occurring around Cessnock, and the five main seams known locally are to be mined on the lease.

The rocks overlying the coal seams consist of poorly sorted marine siltstones, sandstones and conglomerates with local intrusive volcanic sills. Rocks separating the various seams consist of sandstones, siltstones, shales and thin non-economic coal members.

The area is structurally complex with four major groups of north-south and east-west faults displacing seams by 10 to 80 metres.

The Greta Coal Measures contain a higher proportion of sulphur than the younger and more extensive Singleton Coal Measures, with values averaging 0.8% to 1.1% sulphur. Some sandstones overlying the lowest coal member contains significant amounts (up to 10%) of pyrite. Average quality data for Drayton Coal indicates a quality suitable for steaming coal. Insufficient data are available to summarize chemical properties of overburden and interseam rocks.

5.3 Soils and Erosion

Soils occuring within the lease area and along the railway route are principally duplex soils with isolated patches

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of uniform thin soils. There is a marked texture contrast between high clay (B) horizons and coarser textured surface (A) horizons in the duplex soils. Clays in the (B) horizons readily disperse in water if exposed to rainfall and runoff as a result of high sodium content. Nutrient levels in three soils samples analysed appear low.

The impact statement indicates extensive areas of soil erosion, particularly on the steeper slopes, and along watercourses. Overclearing and overgrazing since European settlement are considered the main causes of erosion.

5.4 Climate and Air Qualit

A warm temperate climate is characteristic of the region. Highest rainfall occurs between December and March from summer thunderstorms, and extended periods of little or no rainfall are not uncommon. There is a "water deficit" due to evaporation in all months except July on average, with maximum evaporation occurring in the wettest average period. Frosts occur on average around 15 days per year. There is no information on temperature inversions known to occur in the region. Strong winds, according to the result from strong easterly winds associated with coastal depressions, and local violent squalls. Wind rose data from Scone indicate southerly winds dominate in summer-autumn while westerly and northwesterly winds dominate in winter-spring. Air quality was determined by particulate fallout gauging. Typically data are hi2ghly variable, however the background values of 0.4 to 0.7 g/m /month suggested in the impact statement appear to be of the correct order.

5.5 Hydrology and Water Quality

The site occupies the watershed for Ramrod Creek, flowing north; Saddler's Creek, flowing southwest; Saltwater Creek flowing south and the now dammed headwaters of Bayswater Creek flowing east. Within the lease, streams have zero or extremely low flows for most of the year.

Existing stream water quality, measured from three sites in Ramrod and Saddler's Creeks is poor. Waters are moderately hard, with Ramrod Creek exhibiting consistently high salinity levels over little more than one kilometre. Both streams have high natural buffering capacities. Sampling at a site on a tributary of Bayswater Creek, flowing into Liddell ash dam revealed that flows were due to artesian groundwater. Groundwaters also exhibited high salinity, and carbonate derived high alkalinity and hardness. Groundwater flows vary widely from bore to bore, reflecting the complex geology. An area with groundwater potential has been delineated within the lease. The aquifer is in the form of joints, cracks and interfaces between coal members and overlying strata and appears of limited extent.

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5.6 Flora, Fauna and Archaeolo

The area has been mostly cleared for grazing. Groundcover is a combination of native and exotic grasses. A shrub layer is virtually absent. Open woodland in the northern part of the area consists mainly of Spotted Gum regrowth around large individual trees, Ironbark and Forest Redgum, while in the west Grey Gum, Rough-barked Apple, Box and Ironbark predominate with mainly Ironbark and Box to the south.

Systematic clearing and grazing has removed or altered most pie-existing habitats. The grey kangaroo is common in the southwest. Koalas have been reported in the region. A bird census recorded 65 species. A survey across the lease area revealed no archeological relics.

5.7 Land Use

Current land uses within five kilometres of the Drayton lease include rough pasture cattle grazing, open cut coal mining, power station operation and development and rural subdivision. Potential coal mining area, both open cut and underground exist over all pasture land west, north, east and southeast of the lease.

5.8 Demoorah

Total population in the Singleton-Scone-Denman triangle is around 33,000 (1978 figures) with around 40 percent of persons employed. Agriculture, mining, wholesale/retail, public administration and community services are the dominant employment categories. The level of unemployment varies with each Shire is currently 468 people out of a workforce of around 8000 for Merriwa, Muswellbrook and Scone Shires. Unemployment is an acute problem for school-leavers and females in particular. The number of unemployed junior females is 150 out of the 468 figure (May 1980)

Population growth has been erratic but appears to reflect the development of coal and power generation in the Hunter Valley. Most future population growth is expected to occur in Muswellbrook and Singleton but actual growth rates are uncertain. New coal mining developments could to give rise to a population growth of about 10,000 by 1985 and possibly 50,000 by the year 2000.

Some spillover to Scone Shire is expected. There is an acute shortage of housing and land in both Muswellbrook and Singleton Shires in the short term.

Education, health and social services are considered to be not adequate for current population levels. Recreation facilities are not satisfactory for most sports and aquatic past-times at present, and would not cope with large population increases. The level and adequacy of cultural activities are not discussed

in the impact statement and are virtually non-existent.

6. ENVIR9NMENTAL PROBLEMS AND RELATED SAFEGUARDS

Issues of some concern arising out of the assessment of the project include:

* The potential for contamination of local watercourseS and eventually the Hunter River.

* possible dust problems as a result of the cumulative impact of several mines in the area.

* Noise generation from mining, coal handling and train operations, and the impact of same on nearby residences.

* Acute accommodation shortages existing in the region.

* Safe disposal of pyritic, carbonaceous overburden and other

waste rock.

* The long term viability of the proposed lake in the final cut.

Accordingly these matters are treated in more detail in this

report.

6.1 Water Management

6.1.1 potential Problems

* Water Supply for Mining operations

Water for mining operations will be generated on-site from run off and ground water inflow, and will be contained in a series of dams. It will also be supplemented from three groundwater bores. Only freshwater for drinking and bath-house purposes will be piped from MuswellbroOk. Maintenance of a supply of site water is consequently critical for continued operations.

* Separation of Natural Runoff and Mining Affected Waters.

The water management system needs to prevent discharge of saline water and water carrying high sediment loads generated by mining operations from the mine lease.

* Effects of possible Changes in Groundwater

The creation of an artificial lake after cessation of mining may bring about changes in the groundwater regime and increase saline base flows to Saddlers Creek.

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6.1.2 Proposed Safeguards

The impact statement indicates the project will be a nett consumer of water. Waters contaminated by dissolved salts will be recycled and used for spraying roads and stockpiles to contain dust emissions.

The geographical location of the mine prevents collection of natural runoff generated from beyond the site, and no diversion of natural runoff around the mine site is necessary. A water management system has been developed to collect as much natural runoff as practicable, and to separate contaminated waters into separate collection systems. To this end, a separate dam system is proposed for highly saline waters from groundwater in open cuts

(mine water), from run off from disturbed areas and haul roads, and from process water from stockpiles etc. Another dam system is proposed for run off with high suspended solids from newly reclaimed land. A further dam system is proposed for natural runoff from undisturbed areas for use as make up water. There are no plans to discharge comtaminated water from the lease.

* Water Management Model

The model on which the water management system is based has been specifically developed for this proposal. It is based on the Rational Method used as a statistical model and aims to overcome the problems in assuming average conditions which are normally applied when using this form of a Rational Method model. Working from this base, the management model carries out a simple rainfall-runoff-evaporation and groundwater balance, making allowance for topography, changing catchments, and infiltration and salinity pick up rates in the various catchments.

The mine life is around 20 years, consequently a 20 year period of actual rainfall data, statistically determined from 89 years of rainfall records, was selected as typical for the region. It was considered impractical to use daily rainfall data, and the next suitable records were for 10 days rainfall periods. Storms of high rainfall intensity and of short duration occurring within a 10 days period have been accounted for in the model by adjusting run-off coefficients. This step is important since floods with high flows and of short duration can result from such storms.

The model predicts volumes of water contained in each of 23 dams proposed at the end of every year, and estimates required groundwater make-up. Worst case predictions are built into the model, assuming that the lowest rainfall predicted (in year 4 of model

results) is actually the lowest or close to the lowest

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rainfall that may occur during the life of the mine. -

* Mine Water Supplies

Drinking and bath-house freshwater supplies will be obtained by pipeline from Muswellbrook. Up to 21 ML annually will be required.

Irrigation water which needs to be relatively low in salinity will be obtained from the main freshwater dam (1891). If surface freshwater supplies dry up, as the model predicts, make-up water can be obtained from three groundwater bores. Annual amount required is around 40 ML.

Highly saline water will be used for dust suppression on the mine site, the main source being groundwater, supplemented by runoff. In the event of surface storage dry up, make-up will be provided by the groundwater bores.

* Separation of Waters of Different Quality.

The location and purpose of the various dams are indicated in figures 3-20, 3-21, 3-22 and 3-23 of the impact statement. It is proposed to use 23 dams to collect and separate fresh, saline and turbid waters over the life of the mine as follows:-

hly Saline Water System

Two dam systems, one for each pit and coal handling, one for west pit. Both would overflow into freshwater dams.

High Suspended Solids Water System

The dams will collect runoff from east, south and west tips until the tips are fully revegetated.

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Freshwater System

There will be a set of dams on each of the three main drainage systems as follows:

Number of Dams

Ramrod Ck. Bayswater Ck. Saddlers Ck.

Year 2 3 2 5 Year 5 4 2 3 Year 10 2 2 2 Final Year - 2 1

It is claimed that contaminated water will not be discharged from the lease. The proponents acknowledge that there may be some variation either side of the predicted groundwater inflow levels requiting modification to the water management model. If excess contaminated water is generated a number of disposal options are available.

* Groundwater Safeguards

No specific measures to prevent possible additional pressure heads being put on saline aquifers have been considered.

6.2 Air Qualit

Sources of dust generation will be operations involving land clearing, drilling and blasting, ripping, overburden dumping, coal drilling and blasting, coal and overburden haulage, coal handling and loading and train movements. In addition, dust pick-up will occur on unsealed overburden, cleared land, active dump faces and other natural, eroded areas. It is planned to burn vegetation. In addition, pyritic and carbonaceous materials associated with the Greta coal measures are prone to spontaneous combustion when improperly dumped.

* Mining Operations

The Co-venture proposes to bulldoze vegetation into heaps for burning, in accordance with local fire regulations, whilst clearing no more than lOOm ahead of the advancing face. Waste rock will be dumped onto three tips until the pits have advanced sufficiently to permit backfilling.

Both dragline and truck/shovel operations will be employed to move waste rock. The proponents consider that dust is unlikely to move far from active faces. Dust suppression equipment will be used on drilling rigs, haul roads and working surface on tops will be kept damp, dump heights will be limited, and truck exhausts will be directed upwards. Where standard tipping body trucks are used, tailgates will

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With regard to blasting, the proponents argue that a greater fraction of the dust generated will be dissipated within the mine area since a high proportion of overburden blasting will occur well below the original ground surface.

With reclamation, it is argued that the level of dust generation will be similar to that from arable farming. Progressive reclamation practices will be employed.

* Coal Handling

Coal handling plant and the stockpile area will be surrounded by existing spotted gum, open forest affording some protection from prevailing winds. Additional safeguards include enclosure of fixed plant items, incorporation of automatic water sprays at transfer points and use of a suitable surfactant. Conveyors will be enclosed on three sides with partial enclosures on a fourth and belt scrapers with spill trays will be installed on all belts.

Stockpiles

Spray systems will be provided for the stockpile areas and be capable of covering these areas with a fine mist. The system will be automatically activated whenever the wind speed exceeds 10 mps. The surfactant applied during crushing and screening will form a crust on any surface of the stockpiles, inhibiting escape of dust. A spill control and clean-up program will be instituted.

* Loading Station on Rail Loop

The unit trains will be flood loaded from the covered loading bins, the system being designed to minimise escape of dust. Provision will be made for clean-up of spillages.

* Railway

No dust problems are foreseen in the operation of the rail line to Antiene.

* Monitoring

The proponents intend to install a meteorological station to monitor and record fundamental weather information, as well as a dust monitoring system, the details of which are not indicated.

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6.3 Noise

6.3.1 Potential Noise Problems

The only neighbours likely to be affected by noise from the mine-railway proposal are residents living on the Antiene subdividion. Noise from mining, coal handling and train operation will be audible within the subdivision.

6.3.2 safeguards

The proponents carried out ambient noise and predicted noise studies, the reports being appended to the impact statement. Noise levels were reported in terms of Leq values, rather than the more conventional L10 values.

Using the Leq values determined for the site and comparing these values with those derived from U.S. EPA data and other sources, the consultants concluded that only 2 residences would have their existing acoustic environment increased both by less than 5 dB(A).

It is considered that a night time noise objective for residences should be 35dB(A) for broadband noise from operations associated with the mine. However, this should be reduced by at least 5dB(A) for any intermittent, tonal or inpulsive noises emating therefrom.

It is understood that in verbal advice to the consultants by the State Pollution Control Commission, the use of Leq values was approved for this proposal. The State Pollution Control Commission advised in its submission (Section 4) that it was not yet satisfied that the Company had demonstrated that acceptable noise levels could be achieved at nearby residences, and until such time as the Company is able to demonstrate that it proposes to incorporate suitable measures in the development the Commission would not be prepared to grant its approval under the Noise Control Act, 1975.

It is understood that the State Pollution Control Commission has advised the proponents of its requirements for processing of applications for approval under the Noise Control Act (1975), including matters on which further information is required to assess the impact of noise from the proposed development. No explanation has been provided to this Department concerning the basis of the SPCC's conclusions, however it would seem that some explanation of the noise attenuation assumptions in regard to meteorological and operational conditions on site would need to be provided to the Company.

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6.4 Social Impact

Shortages in housing, lack of recreational, sporting and cultural facilities, possible hospital accommodation shortages and acute unemployment problems in the region were outlined in section 5.8.

The proponents, acknowledging that the Drayton mine will be one contributor to increased population and concomitant social effects, have taken steps to acquire land for staff housing, and have arranged with Muswellbrook Shire Council for a suitable site to accommodate a hostel for construction personnel. The proponents have indicated interest in employing females, particularly as operators for heavy mobile plant in view of their excellent work record in metalliferous mines around Australia. However, it is believed that there is resistance to employment of females in the coal mining industry.

The problem of obtaining the necessary housing for mine workers has not been addressed in the impact statement.

6.5 Coal Transport

The Co-venture investigated truck haulage, overland conveyor and rail options before proposing to build a spur railway and loading loop with a deviation to future mines west and north of Drayton. All options assumed coal haulage by rail from Antiene to Newcastle. Private road haul or conveyor transport from the mine site to Antiene were subsequently excluded mainly on the grounds of difficulty in building and operating a multiple user loading loop at Antiene.

Operation of the spur railway may cause some noise nuisance to near neighbours particularly the Antiene subdivision. It is understood that the State Pollution Control Commission has asked the Company to provide further information on this aspect including the expected maximum and LlO noise levels for multi engined diesel trains both fully laden and unladen proceeding from and to the mine together with braking and whistling effects etc. This matter is discussed further in Section 7.3 of this report.

6.6 Reclamation and Final Land Use

Reclamation proposals and procedures are detailed in Section 6.3 of the impact statement. Reclamation will include the three tips as well as, complete recontouring of the west pit and backfilling of the last pit except for the final void. At this time, it is planned to turn the void into a lake, although other uses, such as fly ash disposal may be possible in the future.

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safeguards proposed to minimise erosion of slopes, siltation and salinity build-up in watercourses, and dereliction of land include:

* careful placement and compaction of waste rock, particularly material prone to spontaneous combustion. segregation of overburden will be possible at Drayton if this proves necessary.

* recontouring of areas as soon as practicable after mining or dump construction.

* addition of required nutrients, chisel ploughing of surface layers and topsoiling. Final ploughing parallel to contours will trap seed and water, reducing erosion. Addition of top soil and regrading of overburden will be adjusted according to season in order to minimise soil losses through wind and water erosion.

* use of appropriate grass mixtures in revegetation as well as tree and shurb plantings. Thiess Bros. Ltd. have developed special mechanized small tree planting techniques to improve tree survival and cover rates.

* operation of a management and maintenance program for reclaimed areas to include repair of incipient erosion, weed control, construction of appropriate stock facilities, monitoring, protection of wildlife and prohibition of shooting will be undertaken by the proponent.

The choice of overburden for placement will depend on the physical and chemical properties of the material. Accurate chemical overburden properties have not yet been determined and this work is underway. The Co-venture is co-operating with several relevant government departments in research on soil properties, reclamation techniques and species selection.

At cessation of mining it is anticipated that the reclaimed areas will have pasture of a higher standard than currently existing, as well as adolescent woodland areas and two or three large permanent dams or lakes.

The railway will remain but the coal handling and preparation plant, buildings and workshops will be removed. Haul roads, waste dumps and settling ponds will be rehabilitated.

6.7 Aesthetics

* Mining Operations

The pit areas will not be visible to the public although there will be distant views from the New England Highway and Lake Liddell of some portion of the East and West tips during their construction. After reclamation they will merge with the existing landscape.

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* Coal Handling Plant, Buildings and Stockpiles

There may be fleeting glimpses by travellers on the New England Highway of the tops of coal stockpiles over the forest area north east of the facilities.

Buildings in the "pit top" area will be of modern attractive appearance - a perspective is shown in Figure 3.14 of the impact statement.

Coal handling plant will be enclosed and further screened by extensive existing eucalypt forest and regrowth.

* 1ailway

The railway from Antiene to the bridge crossing over the New England Highway, and alongside the Antiene subdivision will be in public view.

Much of the route will be in cuttings limiting its visual impact. The bridge over the highway will consist of steel beams supported on three concrete piers, an acceptable functional arrangement.

6.8 Biological Impacts

There are no known biological impacts of concern.

7. ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF PROPOSAL

7.1 Water

7.1.1 Water Supply

It is intended that all water supplies will be generated on site, except for drinking and bath-house water. Consequently an assurance that the quantities required will be available is necessary. The water management plan cannot be interpreted as giving such an assurance since it is a statistical model, albeit a reasonable 'best guess' , and it indicates that while the main freshwater dam can dry out, other smaller freshwater dams do not. If sufficient fresh surface water is not available on site, and saline borewater cannot replace it, alternative sources are needed. Investigations should be carried out to determine the likelihood of freshwater supplies drying up, and the location of suitable sources of alternative supplies if necessary.

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7.1.2 Maintance of Water Quality

The claim is made in the impact statement that discharge of contaminated water will not be allowed. However, contaminated water in the rail loop dam could discharge direct into a tributary of Ramrod Creek, unless sufficient free board is maintained in the dam.

Haul road runoff apparently can drain into the freshwater dam system but further details are not given.

There is some confusion on selection of the design storm for design of water control structures. On page 20 of the impact statement a 1 in 10 years, 1 hour storm (intensity 37mm/hr) was choosen for design of civil engineering works, whereas on page 108 a 1 in 50 year "rainfall event" has been selected for spiliway design. A design storm of greater intensity for 1 hour should be selected for the 24 year mine life. For the very large dams, number 1891, 1662 a 1 in 100 year, 1 hour storm should be selected for design, unless the Elecricity Commission of N.S.W. is satisfied with the design based on a lesser rainfall event, in the case of dam 1891. This dam is situated above the Liddell Power Station ash disposal dam.

Dams receiving water, high in suspended solids should be divided in cells to ensure settling of suspended solids in order that clarified water can be re-used, and to minimise pollution of freshwater in the event of discharge.

There is no indication given in the impact statement of the methods of treatment for bath-house wastes, runoff from the pit head - workshop area, and oil and grease. Details should be submitted to Muswellbrook Council for information prior to determination of applications for approval under the Clean Waters Act.

It was earlier noted that there are local high pyrite contents in coal and other rocks. Unless careful placement procedures are used on tips and in backfilling pits, acid drainage and spontaneous combustion could occur. The extent of this material and the potential seriousness of the problem cannot be determined at this stage. It is considered that immediate investigation of rock properties should be carried out on material due to be excavated in the box cuts, with later testing of other rocks east of the box cuts. Such testing needs to determine the likely release of salts on weathering, as well as potential for acid drainage and spontaneous combustion.

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7.1.3 Groundwater

The Water Resources Commission has asked for the groundwater seepage calculations and has requested that any changes to the water management model, which incorporates groundwater flows be submitted to it for assessment. Discharge of saline water from the site must not occur, excess saline water being disposed of satisfactorily on-site. Conditions reflecting these requirements need to be incorporated into any approvals granted under the Clean Waters Act.

7.2 Air Quality

Ambient air quality was measured by means of 3 dust deposit gauges located north-west (control station), immediately west and in the south-east part of the mine lease. The gauges were in operation for about 18 months. The results obtained from the gauge deposits suggested that background particulate levels are in the range 0.4 to 0.7 g/m2/month.

No attempt has been made to predict possible fallout rates as a result of mining and coal treatment operations, although the proponents have indicated that a number of normally accepted dust control procedures will be implemented. These practices appear to represent the best practicable means of air pollution control.

No details concerning blasting methods have been indicated and the proponents argue that because benches occur below ground level, dust generated from blasting will be dissipated within the confines of the mine. No evidence has been provided to support such a contention.

Further details on blasting frequences, expected amounts of material to be broken per blast, charge size etc. should be provided to the State Pollution Control Commission.

The methods outlined to control dust from coal handling, appear conceptually sound. Engineering details of dust control systems should be supplied to the SPCC for assessment under the provisions of the Clean Air Act.

7.3 Noise Control

7.3.1 Mining and Coal Handling Operations

The proponents have concluded that there will be no noise problem. However, the SPCC is apparently not satisfied that satisfactory noise levels can be achieved and has sought additional data from the Company.

Blasting noise and vibration have not been adequately addressed in the impact statement. However, it is considered that proper blasting practices instituted under

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the control of the Department of Mineral Resources should control noise and vibration, principally because of the one kilometre buffer zone separating the east pit from the sub-division.

There would seem no reason why adequate safeguards cannot be devised to contain noise levels resulting from mining operations and coal handling, to within acceptable limits. Any additional data requested by the State Pollution Control Commission in this regard should form part of any application for approval under the Noise Control Act, 1975.

7.3.2 Railway Operations

it is evident that high noise levels will be generated by diesel trains operating on the spur railway to and from the mine. Furthermore it should be noted there is provision for extension of the line to other mines and that consequently train movements may increase in the future. on the other hand, provision has been made for future electrification which would have compensating effects. Average train movements predicted in the impact statement are 8 every 24 hours for the Drayton mine increasing to 26 every 24 hours once Mt. Arthur comes into operation if approved.

The line cannot be moved further south because of the need to maintain grades for the railway line. Peak noise levels would seem to be the correct criteria measuring noise levels from passing trains in the sub-division and it would appear likely that use of such criteria will indicate a problem. There is little possibility of reducing passing train noise levels or constructing barriers alongside railway embankments.

Consideration should therefore be given to physical noise effects from passing trains in relation to existing dwellings and location of future dwellings with regard to the railway. Further dwellings should not be constructed in close proximity to the railway and appropriate planning controls should be considered by Council to prevent this from occurring.

The proponents should carry out a noise investigation based on the current requirements of the State pollution Control Commission prior to submission of any application for approval under the Noise Control Act.

The State Pollution Control Commission should take into account the alternative safeguard options listed above.

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7.4 Social Impact and Regional Context

There is an acknowledged housing shortage and every action should be taken by the relevant authorities to increase the supply of land for housing, whilst avoiding the sterilisation of coal resources.

With regard to unemployment, every effort should be made to reconcile replacement jobs for mining personnel working in the older Lower Hunter Valley fields with the need to provide employment for people living in the district. In particular, the problem of unemployed females needs to be addressed by both employers and unions.

Relevant authorities should investigate the need for additional medical facilities, as well as sport, recreation and cultural facilities in the district.

The Department of Environment and Planning has established a sub-committee on coal Related Settlement Policy of the Advisory Co-ordinating Committee to address regional as well as local issues raised by impending developments in the Upper Hunter. The Company should provide the Department with appropriate information on the likely social infrastructure requirements of the Drayton Mine to ensure that appropriate facilities can be provided in time to meet the demands of the development.

7.5 Coal Transport

The intention to transport coal to Newcastle by rail is in accord with Government policy and represents the most practical and environmentally acceptable manner of moving coal.

7.6 Reclamation and Final Land Use

The proponent's proposed methods for reclaiming mined areas and tips are to be commended. It is noted that such activity will be carried out under supervision of the Soil Conservation Service.

The proponents have suggested several land uses, including grazing, forestry, fly ash disposal and recreation for the reclaimed land. Options on final land use should be kept open.

Future underground mining may delay final rehabilitation of the site and this possibility is acceptable.

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7.7 Aesthetics

The Company's proposals are considered satisfactory. planned use of existing vegetation and integration of re-contoured areas into existing topography is to be commended.

7.8 Biological

No significant impacts are envisaged. The Company should be required to notify the National Parks and Wildlife Service if it identifies the existence of a colony of koalas within the development area, and every effort should be made to preserve same while arrangements are made for trapping and relocating the animals.

7.9 Monitoring

The impact statement provides details of surface water quality parameters to be measured on a monthly basis as part of the proposed management scheme. Such data together with other groundwater information will permit checking of the water management model and any necessary alterations to the water control system.

A report on a preliminary groundwater investigation is included in Volume II of the impact statement which concludes that groundwater beyond the lease boundary will not suffer any noticeable lonyterm change, that no widespread generation of acidic leachates will occur due to localised neutrlistion, and that no contamination of groundwaters from the proposed lake will occur due to sealing of coal seam in the high wall. The Company proposes to monitor changes in groundwater status on a quarterly basis throughout the life of the mine both as regards levels, flows and quality so that the effectiveness of the control measures can be assessed.

The Company also proposes to set up a meteorological station to monitor weather information.

The possible environmental impacts and mitigating procedures for which the Company has delegated responsibilities for environmental controls are shown in Table 3.9 of the impact statement.

Monitoring functions are similarly designated and presumably are the responsibility of the mine environmental officer.

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The Department of Mineral Resources has indicated that monitoring of noise, dust and vibration will be required in the vicinity of Antiene Subdivision and provision for same will be included in the conditions to be attached to any mining lease.

7.10 Interaction with Bayswater Colliery Operations

It is understood that the granting of a mining lease to the Drayton operation may be dependent on the relinquishment of some land currently owned by Bayswater Colliery which will not vacate same until it is assured of the granting of a lease to extend its existing operations by the Department of Mineral Resources. The extended Bayswater operations will require development consent for which an environment impact statement will be required and which will need to account for that Company's mining plan in order to adequately assess its impacts. Such plan will of course need to take into account the extent and nature of the Drayton Co-Venture's proposals in the vicinity of the common lease boundary. There is no way that development consent to the Bayswater operation can be given without the consideration of a proper environmental impact statement. Hence any delay to the start of both ventures arising from ownership constraints is a matter for both Companies to resolve.

8. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

8.1 General

It is considered from the foregoing assessment of the environmental impact of the proposal by the Drayton Co-Venture to develop and operate the proposed open cut Drayton Coal mine near Muswellbrook, that coal can be won from the proposed lease in an environmentally acceptable manner. While in general the impact statement is adequate to meet the requirements of Environmental Standard EI-4, it is evident from submissions received and the Department's own assessment of the project that there is a need for the Company to supply further information on a number of aspects. This is required to assess the efficacy of some of the proposed safeguards and to complete a proper environmental assessment of the proposals, some of which require further investigation and/or consideration of more detailed design. Such matters concern water management, water pollution, noise controls particularly with regard to the operation of the spur railway, and social issues.

Accordingly, the Department of Environment and Planning agrees in principle to the propsal by the Drayton Co-Venture

for the development of the Drayton Colliery as described

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in the Company's environmental impact statement dated April, 1980 subject to confirmation of certain data and the incorporation of environmental safeguards in the proposal and conditions to provide the environment being included in any approvals.

8.2 Recommendations to Muswellbrook Shire Council

The Department of Environment and Planning recommends that in considering the development application lodged by the Drayton Co-Venture for the proposed open cut Drayton coal mine, Muswellbrook Shire Council has regard for advice in section 8.1 above and includes the following conditions in any development approval it may grant to the development and its associated operations:

a) The Company shall meet the requirements of all public authorities having statutory responsibilities in respect of the proposed operations, and shall negotiate with all authorities having an interest in the project with a view to meeting any reasonable requirements relative to the development, referring any disputed environmental matters to the Department of Planning and Environment for determination. In particular the Company shall, before commencing construction, obtain from the State Pollution Control Commission all statutory approvals required under the Clean Air, Clean Waters and Noise Control Acts in regard to necessary pollution control safeguards.

(b The Company shall amplify its water management plan to clearly demonstrate the availability of all fresh water supplies on site except for drinking and bath- house water requirements. The plan shall include for the location of suitable sources of alternative supplies if the fresh water supplies dry up.

(c The Company shall amplify its water management plan to clearly demonstrate the types, capacities and occurances of discharges that will be allowed off the lease area; that there will be no discharge of contaminated water under dry weather conditions, and that any discharges under wet conditions will not cause any deleterious effects to Ramrod Creek and other natural water courses particularly with respect to salinity.

(d The Company shall reconsider the validity of the design storm criteria used in the design of the dam system on site and shall submit details for the approval of the Water Resources Commission. Furthermore the design of dam No 1891, situated above the Liddell Power Station ash disposal dam, shall be submitted for the concurrence of the Electricity Commission. Arrangements shall be made to provide sufficient free board at the dam within

the rail loop to ensure it will not discharge into the

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tributary of Ramrod Creek.

(e The Company shall submit water management plans and dam designs mentioned in (b), (c) and (d) above to the Water Resources Commission in the first instance and to Council for its subsequent consideration and approval prior to commencement of construction of the relevant works.

(f In addition to (d) above the Company shall submit design details of dams 1891, 1808 and 1662 for the approval of the Dams Safety Committee.

(g The Company shall submit to the Water Resources Commission for approval prior to construction of the railway, design details of waterway provisions for the railway crossings over a number of small streams between the mine and the Main Northern Railway Line.

(h The Company shall conduct qualitative water monitoring of the site together with qualitative and quantitative groundwater testing or other means sufficient to determine any short or long term changes in groundwater accession rates to the natural water courses, all to the satisfaction of the Water Resources Commission and the State Pollution Control Commission. Such information will be needed to assess the efficacy of the water management model and hence may require certain dam design changes which shall be approved by the Water Resources Commission subsequent to condition (d) above. The proposal for conducting the monitoring programmes shall be submitted by the Company to the Department of Planning and Environment for approval and to Council for information within three months of receiving any development approval from Council for the Drayton mine.

(i In the absence of relevant information in the impact statement with regard to treatment of bath-house wastes, run off from pit head workshop area, oil and grease areas, the Company shall submit detailed information concerning proposed treatment processes to Council for information prior to determination of applications for approval under the Clean Waters Act.

(j The Company shall start investigations of rock properites of materials due to be excavated in the box cuts followed by testing of other rocks east of the box cuts. Estimates of likely release of salts on weathering as well as potential for acid drainage and spontaneous combustion shall be taken into account in the mining plan and shall be supplied on an annual basis to the State Pollution Control Commission and the Department of Mineral Resources.

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(k The Company shall carry out a noise investigation based on the current requirements of the State Pollution Control Commission prior to submission of any application for approval under the Noise Control Act. The results of the noise investigations shall also be submitted to the Department of Environment and Planning.

(1 Should there be a noise problem in regard to the environment of the Antiene sub-division, Council should initiate alterations to planning controls to ensure that no further dwellings shall be constructed in close proximity to the railway line. In case of excessive noise to the existing dwellings the Company shall meet any requirements of the State Polution Control Commission.

(m The Company shall submit to the Council and State Pollution Control Commission for approval prior to commencement of operations, proposals to limit blasting operations to the minimum necessary and to control overburden dumping on higher areas during times of high winds.

(n The Company shall submit to Council and the State Pollution Control Commission within three months of receiving Council's approval, proposals for a dust and noise and vibration monitoring program to cover the proposed mining area and especially the Antienne housing subdivision.

(0 The Company shall submit to Council and the State Pollution Control Commission details of all dust pollution control measures to be employed at the mine including the transport of coal along the rail spur.

(p The Company shall provide Council at the earliest opportunity with an adequate survey of mine associated traffic, including the use of public roads with a view to agreeing with Council an appropriate formula for maintenance funding. Consideration should be given to the Company contributing to intersection and turning lanes at the New England Highway. This should be the subject of discussions between the Company, the council and the Department of Main Roads.

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(q The mine works and buildings shall be designed so as to present a neat, orderly appearance, and in particular-

- building materials and design shall be such as to blend as far as possible with the surrounding countryside

- the proposed embankments shall be grassed and landscaped promptly, their slope limited to no more that 10 degrees , and their crests gently undulated

trees of a suitable advanced growth shall be used for establishment of the natural screens and in landscaping, and shall be planted prior to commencement of mining operations

regrassing and landscaping of mined and rehabilitated lands shall occur as early as possible. Such areas shall be with the species of grass seeds and treated with fertilizer as recommended by the Soil Conservation Service.

a senior company employee shall be especially designated to be responsible for tree establishment, rehabilitiation works, fertilisation and general site-works care and maintenance.

(r The Company shall report to Council and the Department as soon as it is able and at six monthly intervals thereafter to confirm the accomodation, infrastructure and transport requirements of personnel employed in the construction and operation of the mine so that appropriate action can be taken to plan and provide for all necessary facilities required. Such information shall include the Company's requirements for land to erect dwellings, rental accommodation and hostel/caravan accommodation. It shall also report to Council and the Department on its estimated job opportunity requirements and training needs.

(s In view of the acknowledged housing shortage in Muswellbrook, the Company shall give a guarantee to build sufficient houses and provide associated facilities and services for its workforce on any land made available by Muswellbrook Council and meet any reasonable requirements applicable thereto.

(t Having regard for minimal sports and recreation facilities available in Muswellbrook the Company shall provide reasonable assistance to Council in improving existing facilities in the area or establishing new ones.

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(u The Company shall offer to purchase any privately occupied residences affected by the mining related operations at fair market prices and shall report to the Department on the progress made in such negotiations within six months of receiving development approval from Council.

(v The Company shall make every effort to employ mining personnal displaced from discontinued mining operations in the Lower Hunter Valley and to provide employment for people living in the district, especially unemployed females.

(w The current approval is for open cut mining only. Any future underground mining proposal at the lease shall be the subject of a further environmental impact statement subject to the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

(x The Company shall provide Council and the Department of Environment and Planning on an annual basis with a report containing evidence of all monitoring results and an assessment of the performance of the environmental controls of the project. Such report should be for the period ending 31st December and should be presented to the Council and the Department by 1st April in the subsequent year. The report should include a plan of areas mined, including areas mined in the previous twelve months; a plan showing original contours with an overlay showing post-mining contours of areas rehabilitated; a description of rehabilitation and revegetation work carried out including details of species planted, and details of all monitoring results and an assessment of environmental controls of the project. Following receipt of the report the Department will arrange for an inspection of the operation with the Council.

8.3 Recommendations to State Pollution Control Commission

The Department of Environment and Planning recommends that in considering the applications lodged by the Drayton Co-Venture for the proposed open cut Drayton Coal mine with respect to the provisions of the Clean Air, Clean Waters and Noise Control Acts, the State pollution Control Commission has regard for the Department's assessment and advice in Sections 7.8.1 and 8.2 above and for the need for the following safeguards to be incorporated in any approvals it may give under that legislation.

(a No discharge of waters should be allowed from the site, other than uncontaminated natural run off except during

:

periods of heavy rainfall and prolonged wet weather.

(b All discharges of waters from the site during wet weather, should be controlled such as not to increase the salinity of the natural water courses above a figure acceptable to the State Pollution Control Commission.

(C The Company should be required to submit details of its proposed treatment of waste waters from the bath house, and run off from the pit head workshop and oil and grease areas in support of the application under the Clean Waters Act.

(d The Company should be required to conduct qualitative water monitoring on the site together with quantitative and qualitative groundwater testing all as specified in Section 8.2(h) and should submit same to the State Pollution Control Commission and the Water Resources Commission for approval.

(e Should the artificial lake in the final cut of the East pit be approved by the Department of Mineral Resources, it may have an increased pressure on the saline aquifers which discharge to Saddlers Creek. Furthermore, it may suffer from deoxygenation. The Company should be required to undertake water quality monitoring in the lake and at two points on Sadlers Creek below the proposed lake and at a third station near its confluence with the Hunter River. The monitoring program should include volume and salinity measurements. The Company should forward the monitoring analysis to the State Pollution Control Commission and the Water Resources Commission with a view to comparing the future use of the lake and any necessary safegiards to increase the quality of its waters.

(f The noise impact study required under secion 8.2(k) should be submitted before final consideration of any applications for approval under the Noise Control Act.

(g The Company shall be required to provide full details of its proposals for blasting in support of its application for approval under the Noise Control Act; indicating times and frequencies of blasting operations, charge sizes and rock quantities to be removed, and overpressure/vibration levels relevant to nearby residences for which blasting criteria for comfort levels should be applied. To control noise to a satisfactory environmental level, regard should be paid to the location of all structures on site and to the acoustical treatment of all structures and control of mobile plant and equipment on site. Consideration should be given to the need to restrict certain operations at night, and to restrict and control blasting and vibration to specific daylight hours. Particular consideration should be given to noise from

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passing trains in relation to existing dwellings.

(h The Company should be required to limit dust emissions from blasting.

(1 The Company should be required to cease overburden removal and reclamation operations at, or above the pre-existing ground level, when exposed to winds of a designated velocity.

(j The Company should be required within three months to install and operate air quality monitoring stations at suitable points around the mining area and a continuous monitoring station in the Antienne housing subdivision. The results of the monitoring should be forwarded to the State Pollution Control Commission. It is recommended that this provision be incorporated in any license to operate given under the Clean Air Act and which may be varied on renewal each year as the circumstances warrant.

(k Provision shall be made for appropriate monitoring arrangements for water and noise pollution in any approval to the development under the Clean Waters and Noise Control Acts, all in accordance with conditions 8.2(h) and (n) above.

8.4 Recommendations to the Department of Mineral Resources

The Department of Environment and Planning recommends that the Department has regard for the Department's advice in Sections 7, 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 above and for the need for the following particular safeguards in any approval it may give to the project.

(a Blasting criteria for comfort level should be applied 4 whenever blasting is proposed near to residences, or

whenever there is a likelihood that any residence or J any farm structure or piping may be damaged by blasting carried out to the AS CA23 procedure.

(b The Company should be required to investigate the maximum use of ripping machinery for coal and parting removal and where possible for overburden removal so as to reduce blasting, and in the light of this investigation to further justify its intended use of blasting in such circumstances.

(c Blasting operations should be prohibited from sunset

to sunrise and as far as possible confined to the periods ') of 11.30 a.m. to 12 noon and 2.30 p.m. to 3.00 p.m.

(d Any carbonaceous overburden should be well buried and

consolidated to reduce the risk of spontaneous

combustion.

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C

(e Land surface clearance in advance of dragline operations should be restricted to one strip-width.

(f Dust from dragline operations should be minimised by I requiring the Company to keep the bucket drop to a

minimum.

(g The company should be required to commence rehabilitation :as soon as possible and once commenced to ensure the rehabilitation programme keeps pace with the production programme.

(h The design and gradient of any recontoured area should be such as not to lead to excessive soil erosion, and in no case should the slope exceed 10 degrees . The construction of final contours should only be determined by the Company after full consultation with the Department and the N.S.W. Soil Conservation Service.

(i The Company should be required to periodically survey the structures, buildings and piping on adjacent land-holdings to ensure that its blasting practices are

\J, hot causing damage to these items.

S

D. West, Government Printer, New South Wales - 1980

4jNiCTEg OR PLNNI6 AND THE

Proposed Drayton c1 sire

MINISTER FOR PLN!ING ND THE 47

Proposed Drayton coal gino

FrrrG'.Cr L. L1'

Ii1