north wambo underground mine extraction plan … · mop. plan 5 of the mop presents a conceptual...

WAMBO COAL PTY LTD

EXTRACTION PLAN

LONGWALLS 8 TO 10A

EXTRACTION PLAN

LONGWALLS 8 TO 10A

NORTH WAMBO UNDERGROUND MINE

APPENDIX I

REHABILITATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

Wambo Coal Open Cut

Management System

Rehabilitation Management Plan

Wambo Coal – Rehabilitation Management Plan

EMP025 Rev 0 December 2011 Page 2 of 31

Prepared by:

GSS ENVIRONMENTAL Project Director: Craig Bagnall PO Box 907 BE (Env.) (Hons) Hamilton NSW 2303 Associate Environmental Engineer Project Manager: Rhys Worrall BSc (Hons) Senior Environmental Scientist Project Scientist Jessica Elmes BEnvSc & Mgmt Environmental Scientist

Date of Issue: 7th December 2011

GSSE Reference: PEA04-020

Issue

ISSUE AND AMENDMENT CONTROL HISTORY

Date Description Author QA/QC

1 15/12/11 Draft Wambo Rehabilitation Management Plan

JE/RW CR



Document Control

Document No. EMP025 Title Rehabilitation Management Plan General Description Management Plan for Rehabilitation of Wambo Open Cut Mine

Key Support Documents

Wambo Coal – Open Cut Mining Operations Plan July 2010 – June 2016 Wambo Coal – Annual Environmental Management Report 2010 – 2011 Wambo Coal – Flora and Fauna Management Plan - 2010

Approvals

ORIGINATOR Name

Lachlan Crawford Position Environment & Community Manager

Signed Date

CHECKED Name Troy Favell

Position Snr Environment & Community Coordinator

Signed Date

APPROVED Name Lachlan Crawford

Position Environment & Community Manager

Signed Date

Revisions

Approved

Rev No Date Description By Checked Name Signed

0 Dec 2011 Original LC TF LC

The nominated Coordinator for this document is Environment & Community Manager



TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION 5 1.1 BACKGROUND & HISTORY OF OPERATIONS 5 1.2 SCOPE 7 1.3 REHABILITATION OBJECTIVES 8

2.0 PROPOSED REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES 10 2.1 REHABILITATION STRATEGY PRINCIPALS 10 2.2 DESCRIPTION OF REHABILITATION PROCESS 10 2.3 GROWTH MEDIA MANAGEMENT 14

3.0 CURRENT REHABILITATION/MANAGEMENT PLANS 16 3.1 SUBSIDENCE 16 3.2 REJECTS EMPLACEMENT STRATEGY 16 3.3 SURFACE & GROUNDWATER 17 3.4 FLORA & FAUNA 18 3.5 VISUAL IMPACT 18 3.6 BUSHFIRE MANAGEMENT 18 3.7 EROSION & SEDIMENT CONTROL 19

4.0 FINAL REHABILITATION 21

5.0 REHABILITATION MONITORING AND REPORTING 23

6.0 RISKS/CONTINGENCY MEASURES 25

7.0 RESPONSIBILITIES 28

8.0 REFERENCES 28

9.0 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS 30

ATTACHMENT 1: PLAN 5, 2010 WAMBO OPEN CUT MOP 31

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1: LOCALITY PLAN OF WAMBO COAL MINE 6

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1: ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH WAMBO’S MINING OPERATIONS 26

TABLE 2: GENERAL REHABILITATION RISKS 26

TABLE 3: REHABILITATION MANAGEMENT PLAN RESPONSIBILITIES AND TIMINGS 28


EMP025 Rev 0 November 2011 Page 5 of 31

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND & HISTORY OF OPERATIONS

Wambo Coal Mine (Wambo) is owned and operated by Wambo Coal Pty Limited (WCPL),

which is majority owned by Peabody Energy Australia (PEA). Wambo is located

approximately 15 kilometres (km) west of Singleton, near the village of Warkworth (see

Figure 1). Wambo consists of an Open Cut and Underground mining operation, with an

associated Coal Handling and Preparation Plant (CHPP), train loading facilities and supporting

infrastructure. It is bounded by Wollombi Brook to the east, coal mining operations to the

north, grazing land to the south and north-west and the Wollemi National Park to the west.

Wambo was granted development consent by Patrick Plains Shire Council in 1969 with Open

Cut and Underground mining commencing shortly thereafter. Subsequent development

consents issued in 1972, 1974 and 1977 covered a range of early Open Cut and

Underground operations. Singleton Shire Council (SSC) approved extensions to mining

operations, construction activities and modifications to road haulage rates in the period

between 1980 and 1991. Wambo currently operates under development consent DA 305-7-

2003, which was granted in February 2004.

Open Cut

Mining in the existing Open Cut commenced in September 1993, mining the Redbank Creek,

Wambo and Whynot coal seams in what is known as the “lease swap” area. Within this area,

Wambo and United Collieries (United), with the support of the Department of Trade and

Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services (DTIRIS) (formerly Department of Mineral

Resources), arranged a swap of Open Cut and Underground reserves. United transferred

Open Cut reserves in the above mentioned seams to Wambo in exchange for underground

reserves in the Arrowfield seam.

After a period of shutdown, in August 2001 operations recommenced in the Open Cut,

extracting the Whybrow seam in the Bates North Pit at a mining rate of 1 million run of mine

(ROM ) tonnes per annum. In August 2002 the operation expanded to include Ridge, Hunter

and Homestead Pits, mining the Whybrow, Redbank Creek, Wambo and Whynot coal seams.

Base Plan Data Source: Wambo Coal

FIGURE 1

Location Plan

To be printed A4

V:\PEA_04-020\Figures\Final\CAD\Fg1_PEA04-020_LocationPlan_111215.dwg



Underground

The Homestead Underground Mine commenced mining in the Whybrow seam in 1979, with

the final longwall (9A) being completed on 22 July 1999. The entry has subsequently been

sealed.

In October 2007, the North Wambo Underground mine (the Underground) commenced the

extraction of coal by longwall mining. The portal entry for the Underground is located within

the current Open Cut, north west of the existing Homestead Pit.

All coal is processed at the on-site CHPP, loaded onto trains at Wambo’s rail loop and train

loading facility and then transported by rail to the port of Newcastle for export. Wambo

produces predominantly thermal coal for the export market. All coal mined is from the

Whybrow, Redbank Creek, Wambo and Whynot seams. Wambo predominately exports coal

to Asian markets for use in electricity generation.

1.2 SCOPE

This Rehabilitation Management Plan (RMP) has been prepared to provide details of

rehabilitation strategies implemented on site, and to meet the requirements of Development

Consent DA-305-7-2003 (MOD 10), and relevant DTIRIS Guidelines.

The RMP has been prepared to document WCPL rehabilitation management measures

implemented as part of Wambo’s operations. Where there is any inconsistency between the

provisions of this RMP and statutory requirements (i.e. licences, permits, consent conditions

and relevant laws) the statutory requirements are to take precedence. In the case of any

real or perceived ambiguity between elements of this RMP and the statutory requirements,

the party implementing this RMP shall first request clarification from WCPL prior to

implementing that element of this RMP over which the ambiguity is identified.

The Environment & Community Manager is responsible for satisfactorily monitoring,

reviewing and implementing the RMP. The plan will be reviewed, and if required modified,

every two years.



1.3 REHABILITATION OBJECTIVES

The aim of the rehabilitation program at Wambo is to re-establish a safe and stable landform

that is compatible with the surrounding landscape and that meets the requirements of the

selected post-mining land use. It is envisioned that post mining land use would consist of

the following:

• Re-established native woodland vegetation (tree and grass) belts across dump tops

providing wildlife habitat and linking remnant wooded areas to the north and south of

the mining disturbed areas;

• Grass and scattered tree covered landform slopes providing landform stability;

• Pasture land, able to support continued grazing, on remaining open pasture land and

relatively flat rehabilitated areas; and

• Undisturbed woodland areas providing biodiversity values and maintaining linkage

with Wollemi National Park to the south west.

To ensure that rehabilitation at Wambo continues to progress towards these aims,

rehabilitation planning incorporates the following guiding principles.

General

Land is to be rehabilitated in accordance with relevant DTIRIS standards applicable at the

time of rehabilitation. Rehabilitated land will represent a minimal source of offsite

environmental impacts, such as dust, water pollution, visual amenity and weeds. All

infrastructure not compatible with selected post-mining land use, will be decommissioned

and rehabilitated. Rehabilitated land will require ongoing management inputs no greater

than adjacent non mining-disturbed land. Rehabilitation will be compatible with the proposed

post-mining land-use.

Landform

Rehabilitated land will be geotechnically stable and will not present a greater safety hazard

than surrounding land. Land capability will, at a minimum, be returned to a class similar to

that existing prior to the commencement of mining (Class IV and V). Mined land will be re-

contoured to a landform compatible with the surrounding natural landscape. Rehabilitated

landforms will be designed to shed water safely without causing excessive erosion,

jeopardising landform geotechnical integrity or increasing pollution of downstream

watercourses. Final voids will be minimised and final treatment will be as described in

Section 5.0.



Vegetation

Rehabilitated land will be top dressed, fertilised and sown with grass and/or native

vegetation species. The vegetation cover to be established on rehabilitated land will

comprise native tree, shrub and grass species in tree belt areas and a mix of native and

exotic grasses on rehabilitated overburden dumps. Success of vegetation establishment will

be assessed annually, via rehabilitation Ecosystem Function Analysis (EFA) monitoring

(further details in Section 5). Progress of vegetation establishment success will be based

on vegetation health and community structural development and compared with nearby non-

mining disturbed vegetation communities of similar topography and land-use type.

The Wambo revegetation program will establish significant areas of woodland vegetation

over the longterm. The final distribution of woodland to be established on rehabilitated

landforms will ultimately depend on the outcome of closure planning (i.e. the agreed post-

closure land use); however, the provisional revegetation strategy includes revegetation with

woodland corridors; broad areas of mixed woodland/pasture; and riparian vegetation along

drainage lines.



2.0 PROPOSED REHABILITATION ACTIVITIES

2.1 REHABILITATION STRATEGY PRINCIPALS

Rehabilitation works are undertaken progressively over the life of the mine. Rehabilitation

planning consists of: broad stakeholder consultation; the conduct of trials and design

studies; and the preparation of appropriate management plans prior to implementation. A

summary of the key elements of the rehabilitation program at Wambo is provided below.

Rehabilitation Principles and Objectives

The following rehabilitation principles form the basis for rehabilitation planning and design at

Wambo.

• Existing remnant vegetation to be preserved wherever possible, and only disturbed

where approved to do so.

• Integration of open cut mining and rehabilitation planning to minimise the area of

disturbance at any one time.

• Progressive rehabilitation of disturbed areas, including (where practical) the partial

rehabilitation of temporarily inactive waste rock emplacements.

• Creation of post-mining landforms that enhance the amenity of the local landscape

and contribute to local and regional habitat corridors, as presented in the Synoptic

Plan: Integrated Landscapes for Coal Mine Rehabilitation in the Hunter Valley of New

South Wales (NSW Department of Mineral Resources, 1999).

• Return of post-mining landforms of Land Capability Class equal to or better than pre-

mining.

• Consideration of issues of public safety in the design of final landforms.

• Consultation with the relevant state government authorities, Singleton Shire Council

and the Community Consultative Committee (CCC) during the final design and

planning of rehabilitated landforms.

• Implementation of trials and design studies as necessary to maximise effectiveness of

the rehabilitation program.

• Routine monitoring in order to assess ecosystem development and identify

rehabilitated areas requiring maintenance works.

• Development of a sustainable post-mining land use plan towards the end of mine life.

2.2 DESCRIPTION OF REHABILITATION PROCESS

This section outlines the process implemented at Wambo to facilitate the rehabilitation of

areas disturbed by mining. Rehabilitation works are scheduled in the Wambo Open Cut



MOP. Plan 5 of the MOP presents a conceptual layout of the proposed mining and

rehabilitation progression over the life of the MOP. A copy of the revised Plan 5 from the

2010 Wambo Open Cut MOP is attached to this management plan.

The amount of disturbed land at any one time is primarily associated with the advancing

open pit and active mine overburden emplacement areas. As an integral component of

staged mining operations, rehabilitation of the overburden emplacements and other areas of

disturbance are conducted progressively over the life of the mine and are scheduled to

minimise the disturbed area.

Particular focus is placed on the outer batters of the overburden emplacements. Cover crops

may be applied to incomplete overburden emplacement areas where they may remain

inactive for an extended period. These measures reduce the visual impact of Wambo and

minimise the potential for generation of wind-blown dust and sediment laden runoff.

In order to achieve the aims of the rehabilitation program, WMPL has adopted a

rehabilitation process that incorporates industry leading practice and specific site based

methodology. Although rehabilitation methodology may vary over time, the following sub-

sections discuss the standard methodology currently employed at Wambo. The basic steps

in the rehabilitation process include:

• landform reshaping;

• land preparation;

• topsoil application;

• vegetation establishment; and

• assessment and maintenance.

Landform Reshaping

Landform reshaping consists of re-contouring overburden dumps to the designed shape for

final rehabilitation. The bulk shaping of overburden is undertaken using bulldozers.

Reshaping results in a stable landform incorporating slopes and drainage which blend in with

the surrounding natural topography. Slope stability is integral to rehabilitation design and

the objective during rehabilitation planning is to design all slopes to a gradient of ten

degrees or less. Slopes steeper than ten degrees may be necessary in some locations to

ensure rehabilitation merges seamlessly with adjacent undisturbed land.

Overburden material exhibiting hostile characteristics (acidity, excessive alkalinity, sodicity,

etc) is identified and isolated from vegetation root zones and areas of potentially high



surface run off. Likewise, reject emplacements integrated into the landform being reshaped

will be covered by at least two metres of inert material.

Until an adequate vegetation cover is established, heavy rainfall may cause erosion, resulting

in a dissected land surface, resource loss and the need for expensive remedial treatment.

Therefore, slope length is reduced by the construction of contour banks designed to

intercept and divert water off the slopes. These contour banks report to protected drop

structures (grass or rock lined), which drain water safely from the landform, via a sediment

detention structure if the water is to be discharged from the mine water management

footprint.

Land Preparation

Once bulk reshaping is completed, the landform is ripped to approximately 300 millimetres

(mm) and then the final trim and rock raking are undertaken. The ripping loosens up any

near surface strata within the landform that have been compacted during placement, aiding

root penetration during vegetation establishment. The final trim smooths out any wash-

outs, rough edges, temporary access tracks, local steep topography and prepares the

surface for revegetation. Rock-raking removes exposed surface rock greater than 200 mm in

diameter. This raking is usually done along the contour, leaving a textured surface that

assists with erosion minimisation until vegetation can be established.

Ameliorants, if required, are applied to the trimmed overburden surface prior to topsoil

spreading. Overburden and topsoil sampling and laboratory analysis is undertaken to gain

an understanding of the type and rate of ameliorant required to treat the overburden.

Gypsum is commonly applied at a rate of approximately 5-10 tonnes per hectare (t/ha) to

assist in treating sodic, poorly structured or heavy clay material. Lime (calcium carbonate)

may also be applied to treat hotspots of low pH (acidic) overburden if encountered;

however, acidity has not historically been a problem with Wambo overburden. Lime

application may also be required, where biosolids are being used to supplement topsoil

application.

Topsoil Application

Topsoil stripped ahead of mining is applied to the reshaped surface in an even layer

generally not less than 100mm. Topsoil is placed using rear dump haul trucks and spread

with dozers or graders. Once spread, the topsoil surface is disc or chisel cultivated to create

a textured surface which assists in trapping surface runoff, provides seed entrapments and



creates microclimates favourable for seed germination. Where biosolids are used, cultivation

also integrates the topdressing material.

Where topsoil stockpiles are significantly weed infested, the top layer of the stockpile may

require scalping before underlying material is used for topdressing.

Wambo has also been trialling the application of biosolids as a topsoil supplement to improve

soil structure and act as a source of additional nutrients for vegetation establishment.

Biosolids are generally applied at a rate of approximately 90 to 130 t/ha (wet weight), using

a tractor towed spreader trailer. Biosolids are handled and spread in accordance with the

guidelines for the Use and Disposal of Biosolids Products: NSW Environment Protection

Authority (1997).

Vegetation Establishment

Following surface preparation, vegetation establishment across the rehabilitated area is

commenced. The aim of revegetation is to minimise erosion and facilitate the development

of the post-mining land-use, be it agricultural production or habitat/ecosystem enhancement.

Vegetation may be established by the following methods:

• Sowing or direct seeding;

• Propagules (seeds, lignotubers, corms, bulbs, rhizomes and roots) stored in the

topsoil;

• Spreading harvested plants with bradysporous seed (seed retained on the plant in

persistent woody capsules) onto areas being rehabilitated;

• Planting nursery-raised seedlings (tubestock); and

• Invasion from surrounding areas through vectors including birds, animals and

wind.

The most common method of vegetation establishment at Wambo is broadcast seeding of

selected pasture or tree seed mixes. Seed sowing is usually supplemented by the concurrent

application of granulated fertiliser. Sowing is undertaken shortly after topsoil spreading to

avoid loss of topsoil due to wind and rain action. Tubestock is generally only used to

establish vegetation where rapid growth or specific species establishment is required, such

as remedial revegetation, erosion control or visual bunding.

Fertiliser application is beneficial to vegetation establishment to replenish any nutrient

deficiencies. The type of fertiliser and application rate varies according to the specific site,

soil type and post mining use of the area. When applying any additional chemical or products

to the soil, the effects of runoff and leaching will be considered, as rapid leaching from



organic wastes are known to provide ideal conditions for algal blooms and exacerbate weed

growth and infestation.

Timing for initial vegetation establishment is an important factor for successful revegetation.

Where possible, sowing and planting are planned to occur as soon as possible prior to the

expected onset of reliable rains or after a break of the season (i.e. Autumn and Spring).

Following the changes in topography, drainage and soil conditions that results from open cut

mining, some local provenance species may not be suitable for revegetation and seed

sourced from outside the immediate district may be required. The most appropriate species

to use to rehabilitate the area are those most suited to the soil types, drainage status, aspect

and climate of the site. The biodiversity values of the surrounding native vegetation

communities are considered during rehabilitation planning. Distribution of vegetation type

and species selection will be designed to enhance these values, whilst ensuring that weed

and fire hazards are not increased for surrounding local agricultural areas.

In recognition of the importance of vegetation corridors to regional biodiversity,

rehabilitation initiatives aim to increase the connectivity of vegetation in the region through

the establishment of woodland corridors. Accordingly, the rehabilitation program has been

designed to establish linkages between the rehabilitation areas, existing remnant vegetation

and Wollemi National Park. In doing so, WCPL is addressing the issue of discontinuity in

remnant vegetation across the Hunter Valley floor.

A selection of pasture/cover crops have been utilised in the revegetation of the North

Wambo Creek Diversion (NWCD) riparian zone. The revegetation strategy includes the

planting of the NWCD riparian corridor with River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamia) and Rough-

barked Apple (Angophora floribunda). The pasture/cover crops to be utilised in the

revegetation of the NWCD riparian zone are commercially available species commonly found

in the Hunter Valley, with the exception of fast growing sterile cover crops used in initial

stabilisation.

Revegetation also includes the use of native species with the potential to offer habitat

resources for native wildlife (e.g. breeding, roosting/nesting or foraging resources), including

threatened fauna species. The revegetation program includes the use of food tree species

for the Glossy Black-cockatoo (e.g. Allocasuarina sp.).

2.3 GROWTH MEDIA MANAGEMENT

Topsoil is an important factor in successful rehabilitation and therefore effective treatment of

the topsoil stockpiles is essential in providing quality topsoil with minimum soil amelioration



when it is required for use. Topsoil removal involves the recovery of at least 100 mm of

topsoil from the surface prior to mining an area. The actual depth of topsoil recovered is

dependent on the quality of the material and the original surface conditions (e.g. deeper in

alluvial areas and shallower on ridge lines).

Due to the known variability and distribution of the soils at Wambo, the concept of soil

complex units is used to identify the soil types, and provide guidance on appropriate

stripping depth. The different soil complex units found at Wambo, as identified in the

Wambo Development Project EIS 2003, include:

• Red Podzolic – found on the ridges and middle to upper slope position of the site.

The upper 0.10m of the profile of each soil type is suitable for use as topsoil;

• Yellow Podzolic / Solodic – found on the mid to lower slopes of the hills within

the site. The upper 0.20m of the profile of each soil type is suitable for topsoil.

• Lithosols – Stony or gravely soils generally occurring on upper slope and hill top

areas. No depth of the profile is suitable for topsoil.

• Alluvials – found around North Wambo Creek. Suitability for topsoil recovery

highly variable from 0.30m, to limited areas of 1.0m.

Where possible, direct placement of excavated topsoil onto re-shaped areas is preferred to

stockpiling, in order to avoid rehandling and reduce the potential for further topsoil

degradation or loss. If a re-shaped surface is not available, the topsoil is stockpiled. The

treatment of the topsoil stockpiles is dependent on the planned timeframe between recovery

and use. If stockpiles are to be left for longer than three months, they are shaped into an

elongated mound and seeded with pasture to maintain soil fertility, reduce weed invasion

and reduce wind and rain erosion. Measures such as stockpile positioning, inventory

recording, access barriers and signage are also implemented to ensure stockpiled topsoil is

not unintentionally buried, interfered with or utilised for other purposes (windrow or road

construction).



3.0 CURRENT REHABILITATION/MANAGEMENT PLANS

3.1 SUBSIDENCE

WCPL’s Underground mining operates under an approved Subsidence Management Plan

(SMP). This SMP covers underground mining activities for Longwall Panels 1 through to 6

(LW 1-6), and includes an assessment of environmental impacts associated with subsidence.

Rehabilitation is undertaken to remediate mine subsidence impacts (e.g. surface cracking or

erosion) on natural surface features. Regular visual monitoring is also conducted to identify

any areas subject to excessive erosion and sedimentation as a result of subsidence effects

and, where required, mitigation measures are implemented. The results of subsidence

monitoring are reported to the DTIRIS as per the requirements in the SMP.

Since 2006, Baseline Riparian Vegetation and Bed Bank Stability Monitoring Programs were

initiated in North Wambo, South Wambo and Stony Creeks. The monitoring programs are

designed to obtain a greater understanding of any subsidence related impacts on the

riparian environment.

Remnant Woodland Enhancement Program areas overlying existing underground workings or

proposed underground mining areas are also subject to annual subsidence monitoring

inspections. These inspections:

• identify any isolated surface disturbances;

• assess the level of disturbance to native vegetation and the condition of the vegetation

(e.g. health and vigour of species and communities); and

• assess any changes in drainage lines or watercourses (that may be attributable to

subsidence).

3.2 REJECTS EMPLACEMENT STRATEGY

The operations of the CHPP results in approximately 30 percent of the raw coal input being

removed as waste material both as a coarse and fine tailings fraction. Approximately 80-85%

of the CHPP reject is in the form of coarse reject. The remainder is fine reject (tailings).

Coarse reject is disposed of in active Open Cut dump areas as co-disposal with overburden,

or used for capping of tailings emplacements.

The tailings are pumped as slurry to open cut voids. Once the tailings have filled a void they

are progressively capped and rehabilitated. Where required, specialist tailings consultants

have been engaged to advise on tailings capping strategies. However, the general

methodology for the rehabilitation of tailings emplacements includes the placement of a



geotextile layer (or geogrid) on the tailings surface to ensure tailings stability before capping.

An appropriate depth of inert capping material (2 to 5m deep) is then be placed over the

tailings surface (in lifts, where required for stability). Final surface rehabilitation follows the

method used for spoil dumps as described in Section 2.2 (minimum 100mm topsoil, ripped

and seeded). Depending on capping depth, tailings dams are generally be rehabilitated to a

pasture grass cover.

3.3 SURFACE & GROUNDWATER

WCPL operates in accordance with its the Groundwater Monitoring Program (GWMP) and

Surface Water Monitoring Program (SWMP).

The overall objectives of the GWMP are to establish baseline groundwater quality and water

level data and to implement a program of data collection that can be utilised to assess

potential impacts of mining activities on the groundwater resources of the area. These sites

consist of purpose constructed monitoring bores (also referred to as piezometers); water

supply bores; and bores owned by neighbouring landholders. Actual bores may be standpipe

monitoring bores, stock wells, or multiple vibrating wire piezometers.

Surface water monitoring is undertaken in accordance with WCPL’s SWMP, a requirement of

Consent Condition 33, Schedule 4 of DA305-7-2003. In accordance with the SWMP, WCPL

maintains surface water monitoring sites, located within:

• Wollombi Brook, Doctors Creek, Longford Creek, North Wambo Creek, South Wambo

Creek and Stony Creek; and

• Mine water storage dams including Eagles Nest Dam, Chitter Dam and South Dam.

All disturbed areas of the North Wambo Creek Diversion (NWCD) construction works are to

be rehabilitated. Rehabilitation that has previously been undertaken in this area consists

generally of topsoil application, application of soil ameliorants, ripping, seeding (mainly a

pasture seedmix), and strategic tubestock planting to provide long-term bank stabilisation.

Revegetation using hydromulching was also undertaken on steeper batters.

Rehabilitation of groundwater boreholes (monitoring or extraction) is completed by removal

of surface infrastructure (pumps, lines, casing and monuments), backfilling the borehole with

clay spoil and grout sealing (concrete capping) to near surface, before backfilling a

compacted 300mm surface topsoil layer and hand seeding the disturbed surface area. In

areas of remnant vegetation, the disturbed area will be scattered with woody debris and

allowed to recolonise naturally with local native species.



3.4 FLORA & FAUNA

WCPL has developed a Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP) outlining the proposed

management and implementation of revegetation works in areas disturbed by mining.

Clearing operations will be managed to maximise the re-use of cleared vegetative material.

Where suitable, cleared vegetation will be re-used for multiple purposes including fauna

habitat features or fence posts. Habitat features such as logs, fallen limbs and hollows will be

collected/salvaged to provide habitat features for fauna in rehabilitation areas and in the

RWEP areas. The FFMP also outlines the Surface Disturbance Permit (SDP) procedure

implemented at Wambo to control and minimise ground disturbance. SDPs for short term

projects (i.e. exploration sites) will include conditions for rehabilitation of disturbed areas.

3.5 VISUAL IMPACT

Rehabilitation is completed as soon as practical (following construction activities) for project

areas visible from public roads and neighbouring properties, such as the Wambo Rail

Development (WRD). The aim of this rehabilitation is to allow the regeneration of native

flora species, maintain the structural stability of any project earthworks, prevent erosion and

sedimentation, and provide natural screening, where possible, to maintain the visual amenity

of adjacent land.

In accordance with Consent Condition 86, Schedule 4 of DA305-7-2003, WCPL completed an

assessment of all external lighting associated with the mine to Australian Standard AS4282

(INT) 1995 – Control of Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting. The independent audit

completed in June 2011 concluded WCPL lighting met the requirements of AS4282.

3.6 BUSHFIRE MANAGEMENT

High frequency bushfire resulting in the disruption of lifecycle processes in plants and

animals, and loss of vegetation structure and composition, is listed as a threatening process

in Schedule 3 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995). A Bushfire Management

Plan (BMP) is in place at WCPL. The Bushfire Management Plan was originally approved by

the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) and SSC in 2005. This plan incorporates both an

identification of likely bushfire hazards on the site and an assessment of the risks those

hazards represent.

In February 2008, the BMP was reviewed in consultation with the NSW RFS and

subsequently approved on 1 July 2008. The NSW RFS completes regular assessments of



various grassland and bushland areas within WCPL’s landholdings regarding bushfire

hazards. WCPL internal service roads form part of the fire management trail running along

the western boundary of the Wollemi National Park, and are regularly inspected and

maintained.

Where fire originates on WCPL landholdings, the primary aims will be protection of the WCPL

assets and prevention of the fire escaping to adjacent land. For minor fires, appropriate

plant, equipment and resources will be dispatched immediately to suppress the fire. The

most common method of fire fighting in these instances is likely to include water sprays to

douse the flames, followed by appropriate mopping up procedures to ensure that the fire is

fully extinguished and the chance of re-ignition is minimised.

Where possible (and where safe to do so), newly rehabilitated areas will be actively

protected from bushfires, and rehabilitated areas impacted by bushfires would be assessed,

with appropriate remedial works completed to ensure landform stability and erosion control.

3.7 EROSION & SEDIMENT CONTROL

In accordance with Schedule 4, Consent Condition 32, an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan

(ESCP) has been developed for Wambo. As part of the ESCP, WCPL conducts monthly

inspections of operational sediment control structures. The structures are assessed for

structural stability and effectiveness, and appropriate remedial works are implemented as

required. Inspections of sediment control structures are also undertaken following significant

rainfall events. The main principles of the ESCP include:

• Separation of runoff from disturbed and undisturbed areas where practicable;

• Construction of sediment structures or utilisation of existing mine water storages to

capture runoff up to a specified design criterion;

• Construction of surface drains to facilitate the efficient transport of surface runoff;

and

• Progressive rehabilitation and stabilisation of mine infrastructure areas.

These principles take into account the general recommendations for site drainage works

presented in “Managing Urban Stormwater – Soils and Construction Volume 1” (Landcom

2004). A number of strategies are used on site for erosion and sediment control including:

• The establishment of diversion banks on the upstream side of the site to divert clean

water around the site and into natural drainage lines;



• The establishment of catch drains in accordance with relevant criteria (outlined in the

ESCP) to direct sediment-laden water into sediment control structures;

• The strategic placement and design of sediment control structures on site to treat

sediment laden water before it leaves site;

• The placement of hay bales along catch drains to control the velocity of flow and

prevent scouring;

• The establishment of sediment ponds or utilisation of existing mine water structures

to treat sediment laden water;

• The establishment of sediment fencing as required on the down-slope side of soil

stockpiles;

• The use of a street sweeper to remove dirt and mud from mine access roads;

• Monthly monitoring of all sediment control structures and maintenance when

required;

• Limiting clearance and disturbance of the natural environment; and

• Progressive rehabilitation across site.



4.0 FINAL REHABILITATION The principles of vegetation connectivity presented in the Synoptic Landscape Plan

developed by the DMR (now DTIRIS) have been incorporated into the design of the final

rehabilitated landscape. The placement of pasture grass areas and tree corridors conforms to

the synoptic plan, and provides linkages to Wambo’s Green Offset areas (RWEP areas),

Wollemi National Park, Wollombi Brook and other areas of remnant bushland.

Landscape planning is essential to achieve immediate rehabilitation objectives, such as

landform stability, and to achieve long term sustainability. Rehabilitated areas at Wambo are

designed to be capable of withstanding normal disturbance such as fire, wind and flood, and

discourage the re-colonisation of introduced species of both flora and fauna. To promote

native flora and fauna habitat, a variety of native plant species are planted, including tree

and understorey species, to encourage the restoration of natural characteristics and

structure of a native ecosystem. The inclusion of habitat enhancement features (such as

rocks, dead trees and logs) in the rehabilitated area will be used to provide shelter and

nesting places for native fauna, thereby encouraging fauna recolonisation of rehabilitated

areas. Linkage between remnant vegetation and rehabilitation areas by planting tree

corridors will be undertaken to help redress fragmentation of natural bushland.

Mine site rehabilitation is often compromised by the invasion of feral animals, livestock,

weeds, as well as human activities. Areas of the mine site that have been previously

rehabilitated will therefore be monitored on a regular basis, with maintenance activities

undertaken as required.

The Wambo Mine Closure Plan, which is currently being developed, will detail the final

landform and landuse following completion of mining operations. The final void configuration

will be as follows:

• In Pit Slopes into Final Voids - these will be reshaped to 18 degrees or less. These

slopes can be traversed safely, and may also be used for native tree planting; and

• Final highwalls - the final highwalls will be left with 10m benches at approximately

30m intervals. Remaining highwalls will have protective benching and berms.

This configuration is designed to restrict vehicle access and help prevent scouring of the

highwalls. At the completion of mining, the final landform will include two final voids used

for water storage and some minor permanent ponds on the eastern edge of Wambo. Any

further final void access restrictions (e.g. fencing) for safety and exclusion of stock will be



designed and implemented in consultation with the relevant authorities. The surface

catchment of the final voids will be minimised by the use of contour drains.

Infrastructure with no ongoing beneficial use will be removed from the site at the completion

of mining. Some infrastructure (e.g. site access roads) may be retained for alternate post-

mining uses (where agreed in consultation with the relevant landholders). At the completion

of underground mining operations, all related surface infrastructure (e.g. conveyors) will be

removed. Portals will be sealed (or access restricted) in accordance with DTIRIS

requirements.

The current conceptual final landform plan is included as Plan 6 and 6A of the Wambo Open

Cut MOP. The preferred final landform concepts for Wambo will be revised and refined

throughout the life of the operation, utilising the outcomes of ongoing consultation with

relevant authorities, stakeholders and the results of rehabilitation trials.



5.0 REHABILITATION MONITORING AND REPORTING Rehabilitation assessment and maintenance programs have been implemented at Wambo to

ensure rehabilitation development is progressing towards the desired rehabilitation

objectives.

The aim of the rehabilitation assessment is to collect sufficient data on the rehabilitated land

to compare against selected completion criteria, in order to assess rehabilitation

development, sustainability and, eventually, suitability for the selected post-mining land use.

Assessment programs consist of two components, (a) visual inspections, and (b) scheduled

rehabilitation monitoring using the Ecosystem Functional Analysis (EFA) method.

A scheduled rehabilitation monitoring program is undertaken at Wambo for revegetated

open cut and riparian land, utilising the CSIRO developed EFA monitoring methodology,

which assesses landscape function and habitat complexity. The purpose of the assessment is

to determine whether rehabilitated areas are on a trajectory toward self-sustainability and

functionality.

The data derived from the EFA monitoring program provides a scientifically robust platform

against which the effectiveness of rehabilitation techniques is assessed and, where

applicable, amended to achieve continued development towards the establishment of

sustainable vegetation communities.

EFA assessment data is reviewed upon completion of annual monitoring, and remedial

actions for significant anomalies detected during monitoring (i.e. failed rehabilitation, failed

water management structures, significant weed infestations) are incorporated into

environmental works planning.

Regular visual monitoring of rehabilitated areas is also conducted to identify any requirement

for maintenance measures and/or remedial works. Such maintenance or remedial works may

include:

• repair of erosion (i.e. regrading of eroded areas), drainage paths and de-silting of

sediment control structures;

• slashing, re-seeding or supplementary planting;

• soil sampling and analytical testing;

• application of fertiliser to address nutrient deficiency;

• application of lime or gypsum to control pH and improve soil structure;

• bushfire management activities; and

• implementation of weed and feral animal control measures.



Rehabilitation monitoring results and maintenance activities are reported in the AEMR. The

AEMR provides an annual review of rehabilitation progress and report mining lease

disturbance areas, rehabilitated areas and areas undergoing rehabilitation to demonstrate

that progressive rehabilitation goals are being met.



6.0 RISKS/CONTINGENCY MEASURES

A preliminary hazard assessment was conducted as part of the Environmental Impact

Statement for the Wambo Development Project. Although this assessment addressed

potential environmental impacts, the focus was on immediate, local hazards such as water

management, hazardous materials management and process waste disposal.

A High Level Environmental Risk Assessment for Wambo’s existing operations was completed

in late 2007. Areas covered included the CHPP, the Underground and Open Cut and buffer

land. As part of a wider environmental scope, the assessment identified hazards and ranked

risks associated with land disturbance, mining and processing operations, support activities,

rehabilitation and closure. Table 1 below presents a summary of identified environmental

risks associated with Wambo mining operations. Risks identified as High (H), Medium (M) or

Low (L) correspond to the highest raw risk ranking (without controls) determined for each

activity/process during the High Level Risk Assessment Process. Blank cells indicate

extremely low risk or not applicable. Risks identified in this table provide the focus for

environmental planning and operational management at Wambo.

As part of the rehabilitation planning process, risks to successful rehabilitation establishment

are assessed (as presented in Table 2) for each new rehabilitation project. The processes

outlined in this document have been implemented to control or eliminate these risks;

however, where project-specific risks are identified as still being of concern, appropriate

controls are incorporated into the rehabilitation project methodology.



Table 1: Environmental Risks Associated with Wambo’s Mining Operations

Activity, Process or Facility

Issue Land

pre

para

tion,

veg

etat

ion

and

tops

oil s

tripp

ing

All

cons

truct

ion

activ

ities

in

clud

ing

earth

mov

ing

Min

e de

velo

pmen

t and

min

ing

- su

rface

and

und

ergr

ound

Trac

ks a

nd v

ehic

les

Was

te ro

ck e

mpl

acem

ent

man

agem

ent

Min

eral

pro

cess

ing

faci

litie

s an

d op

erat

ions

Ore

/pro

duct

sto

ckpi

ling

and

hand

ling

Taili

ngs

impo

undm

ent

man

agem

ent

Wat

er m

anag

emen

t inc

ludi

ng

stor

m e

vent

con

tinge

ncie

s

Haz

ardo

us m

ater

ials

& fu

el,

hand

ling/

spill

s m

anag

emen

t

Sew

erag

e

Oth

er in

frast

ruct

ure

use

and

oper

atio

n

Rub

bish

dis

posa

l

Reh

abili

tatio

n ac

tiviti

es

Reh

abili

tatio

n m

aint

enan

ce,

pend

ing

self-

sust

aina

bilit

y

Reh

abili

tate

d la

nd a

nd re

mai

ning

fe

atur

es

Air pollution, dust/other H H H H M H L H L Erosion/sediment minimisation M M H M H H H M M L

Surface water pollution M M M H H H M M L L L

Groundwater pollution M L L L L L L Contaminated or polluted land L L M M L L

Threatened flora communities H

Threatened fauna populations H

Threatened species habitat H

Weed control and management L L L M M

Excessive noise, (intensity/time) M H H M H H L M M

Vibration and air blast H Visual amenity, stray light M M H M H

Aboriginal heritage H Natural heritage conservation L L L

Spontaneous combustion L M M L L

Bushfire H L M H H H H

Mine subsidence H L

Hydrocarbon (fuel) contamination M M M M H M H M L M L

Methane drainage/venting L

Public safety M H M M L L L L H

Table 2: General Rehabilitation Risks

Risk Description & risk factors Topsoil Poor quality, insufficient depth/volume Spoil Acidic, alkaline, saline, sodic, high metals content Surface Excessive rockiness, near surface compaction, poor surface preparation Landform Poor design, excessive slope length/gradient Vegetation Weeds, poor species selection, poor establishment, seed quality,

monoculture establishment, poor timing Climate Fire, drought, flood, heavy rains before protective veg. cover, pests Planning Site disturbances, through traffic, changed mine plans Erosion/sediment control Failure of water management structures, poor design/construction,

inappropriate rock armouring material



7.0 RESPONSIBILITIES

Table 3 below summarises responsibilities and timings documented in the RMP.

Responsibilities may be delegated as required.

Table 3: Rehabilitation Management Plan Responsibilities and Timings

No Task Timing Responsibility for

Implementation Responsibility for Completion

1 Surface Disturbance Permits

When vegetation clearance/ground disturbance is required.

Senior Environment & Community Coordinator

Environment and Community Manager

2 Threatened Species Management Protocol.

During vegetation clearance.



3 Remnant Woodland Enhancement Program.

Ongoing



4 Rehabilitation Program.

On a progressive basis.



5 Rehabilitation Monitoring.

As required.



8.0 REFERENCES

Landcom 2004. Managing Urban Stormwater – Soils and Construction Volume 1.

NSW Department of Mineral Resources, 1999. Synoptic Plan: Integrated Landscapes for Coal

Mine Rehabilitation in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2006. North Wambo Underground Mine Subsidence Management

Plan.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2008. Bushfire Management Plan.



Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Wambo Coal Montrose East Underground Mine Modification

Environmental Assessment.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Flora & Fauna Management Plan.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Groundwater Monitoring Program.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Wambo Coal Open Cut Mining Operations Plan July 2010 –

June 2016.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2011. Wambo Coal Annual Environmental Management Report

2010 – 2011.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Life of Mine Rejects Emplacement Strategy.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.

Wambo Coal Pty Limited 2010. Surface Water Monitoring Program.



9.0 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AEMR Annual Environmental Monitoring Report

BFMP Bushfire Management Plan

CCC Community Consultative Committee

CHPP Coal Handling and Preparation Plant

DA Development Approval

DP&I Department of Planning and Infrastructure

DTIRIS Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services

EFA Ecosystem Functional Analysis

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

ESCP Erosion and Sediment Control Plan

GWMP Groundwater Monitoring Program

NWC North Wambo Creek Diversion

RFS Rural Fire Service

RMP Rehabilitation Management Plan

ROM Run Of Mine

SMP Subsidence Management Plan

SSC Singleton Shire Council

SWMP Surface Water Monitoring Program

TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995)

WCPL Wambo Coal Pty Ltd

WRD Wambo Rail Development



ATTACHMENT 1: PLAN 5, 2010 WAMBO OPEN CUT MOP

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