Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML00562013 · BHP COAL PTY LTD
Coal environmental authority EPML00562013 (BHP COAL PTY LTD), Granted. 155 conditions indexed. Holds PRC plan P-PRCP-101029333.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- BHP COAL PTY LTD; BHP Queensland Coal Investments Pty Ltd; Mitsubishi Development Pty Ltd; QCT INVESTMENT PTY. LTD.; QCT MINING PTY. LTD.; QCT RESOURCES PTY LIMITED; Umal Consolidated Pty Ltd
- Tenures
- ML1775; ML70403; ML70462
- PRC plan
- P-PRCP-101029333 · effective 2026-02-10
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
155 numbered conditions read from the current instrument. Page numbers link into the register PDF.
- A1
This environmental authority authorises environmental harm referred to in the conditions. Where there is no condition or this environmental authority is silent on a matter, the lack of a condition or silence does not authorise environmental harm.
- A2
In carrying out the mining activity authorised by this environmental authority, the holder of this environmental authority must comply with Appendix 1 - Approved Caval Ridge Mine Disturbance Extent attached to this environmental authority.
- A3
The environmental authority holder is approved to extract coal at a maximum rate of 15 million tonnes per year (Mtpa) of run of mine (ROM) coal in accordance with this environmental authority.
- A4
Prevent and /or minimise likelihood of environmental harm In carrying out the environmentally relevant activities, the environmental authority holder must take all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent and/or to minimise the likelihood of environmental harm being caused. Any environmentally relevant activity, that, if carried out incompetently, or negligently, may cause environmental harm, in a manner that could have been prevented, shall be carried out in a proper manner in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A5
Maintenance of measures, plant and equipment The environmental authority holder must ensure: a) that all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority are installed; b) that such measures, plant and equipment are maintained in a proper condition; c) that such measures, plant and equipment are operated in a proper manner; and d) that all instruments and devices used for the measurement or monitoring of any parameter under any condition of this environmental authority are properly calibrated.
- A6
Monitoring and records Except where specified otherwise in another condition of this environmental authority, all monitoring records and reports required by this environmental authority must be kept for a period of not less than five (5) years.
- A7
Monitoring and determinations required under any condition of this environmental authority must be conducted by an appropriately qualified person(s). Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- A8
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring results, records, registers, management plans and reports required by the conditions of this environmental authority must be made available and provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days or an alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the environmental authority holder.
- A9
Notification of emergencies, incidents and exceptions The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority by written notification within twenty-four (24) hours after becoming aware of any emergency or incident that results in the release of contaminants not in accordance, or reasonably expected to be not in accordance, with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A10
Within ten (10) business days following the initial notification under condition A7, or the receipt of monitoring results associated with the notification made under condition A7, whichever is the latter, the environmental authority holder must provide further written advice to the administering authority, including the following: a) results and interpretation of any samples taken and analysed; b) outcomes of actions taken at the time to prevent or minimise unlawful environmental harm; and c) proposed actions to prevent a recurrence of the emergency or incident.
- A11
Complaints The environmental authority holder must record all environmental complaints received about the mining activities, including: a) name, address and contact number for of the complainant; b) time and date of complaint; c) reasons for the complaint; d) investigations undertaken; e) conclusions formed; f) actions taken to resolve the complaint, including the use of appropriate dispute resolution if required; g) any abatement measures implemented; and h) person responsible for resolving the complaint.
- A12
A register of alternative arrangements must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder. The register must include: a) the location to which the alternative arrangement applies; b) the period of the alternative arrangement; c) details about the particular environmental nuisance impact or impacts the arrangement is for; and d) details about the mitigation measures, where relevant. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- A13
Monitoring on request When requested by the administering authority, the environmental authority holder must investigate any nuisance, or contaminant release, or environmental harm, or complaint that is neither frivolous nor vexatious in the opinion of the authorised person, by: a) undertaking the monitoring specified by the administering authority; b) undertaking the monitoring in the timeframe nominated or agreed to by the administering authority; c) completing an analysis and interpretation of the monitoring results; and d) implementing abatement measures, where required.
- A14
The results of the investigation undertaken in accordance with condition A13 must be provided to the administering authority within twenty (20) business days of completion of the monitoring timeframe in accordance with condition A13(b), or a longer timeframe agreed to by the administering authority.
- A15
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority on commencement of Horse Pit Extension mining activities. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule B: Air Condition Condition number
- B1
Odour nuisance The release of noxious or offensive odour or any other noxious or offensive airborne contaminant resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B2
If the administering authority determines odour released from the mining activities to constitute an environmental nuisance, the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- B3
Air Emissions The release of dust or particulate matter or both resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B4
Dust generated by the mining activities must not cause any of the air quality limits specified in Table B1 (Air quality limits and monitoring requirements) to be exceeded at a sensitive place or commercial place.
- B5
Air emissions for a sensitive place or commercial place must be measured: a) at that place; or b) at the monitoring location representative of the of the sensitive place or commercial place.
- B6
The environmental authority holder must ensure that the concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (PM10) generated by the mining activities does not exceed 50-g/m3 suspended in the atmosphere over a 24 hour averaging time at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B7
Upon commencement of Horse Pit Extension activities, the environmental authority holder must ensure when a PM10 level of 50-g/m3 over a 24 hour averaging period at any sensitive or commercial place is measured, the concentration of PM10 generated by the mining activity does not exceed 30-g/m3 over a 24 hour averaging period at the sensitive or commercial place.
- B8
The EA holder must ensure a Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) is implemented for the duration of mining activities.
- B9
The TARP required by condition B8 must be reviewed by 30 June each calendar year by an appropriately qualified person and any recommendations implemented into the TARP.
- B10
The environmental authority holder must ensure and be able to demonstrate that in complying with conditions B6 - B7 (inclusive), the dust abatement measures specified in the TARP have been undertaken for the relevant alarm level and documented in the Dust Control System. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- B11
An Air Emissions Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented prior to the commencement of Horse Pit Extension activities. The Air Emissions Management Plan must incorporate a program for continuous improvement for the management of dust and particulate matter resulting from the mining activities with respect to, but not limited to: a) the collection of air quality and meteorological data at locations and using the monitoring methods described in Table B1 (Air quality limits and monitoring requirements) at all locations specified in Table B2 (Dust and Particulate Matter Monitoring Locations); b) a system to identify adverse meteorological conditions likely to produce elevated levels of dust including PM10 at a sensitive place or commercial place due to the mining activities; and c) a dust and particulate matter control strategy which activates a timely implementation of management control actions.
- B12
The Air Emissions Management Plan required by condition B11 must be reviewed by 30 June each calendar year by an appropriately qualified person and any recommendations incorporated into the Air Emissions Management Plan.
- B13
Where monitoring identifies instances where a concentration specified in condition B6 - B7 or Table B1 (Air quality limits and monitoring requirements) is exceeded at any sensitive place or commercial place, the environmental authority holder must report to the administering authority within fourteen (14) days: a) the air quality data at the sensitive place or commercial place; b) a description of meteorological conditions recorded in accordance with Table B1 (Air quality limits and monitoring requirements) and Table B2 (Dust and Particulate Matter Monitoring Locations) occurring at the time; c) the air quality data upwind of the mining activities (if known); d) measures taken to reduce dust generated by the mining activities; and e) the contribution of the mining activities to the PM10 concentration at the sensitive or commercial place.
- B14
If the monitoring required by condition A13 is undertaken for over one month, then monthly interim reports should be provided to the administering authority.
- B15
Air quality monitoring data must be made publicly available in real time online on the environmental authority holders website.
- B16
The format of the information to be made available in accordance with condition B15 must be provided to the administering authority for approval within 6 months of commencement of the Horse Pit Extension activities.
- B17
The environmental authority holder must implement the requirements of condition B15 within twelve (12) months of Horse Pit Extension activities commencing. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table B1 (Air quality limits and monitoring requirements) Monitoring Air Quality Indicator Frequency Air Quality Limits* Monitoring Method Location
- C1
Noise nuisance Noise from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C2
Noise is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C1 if monitoring shows that noise does not exceed the limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C3
Noise monitoring Noise monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A13, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: a) LA eq, adj, 15 mins (external); b) LA 1, adj, 15 mins (internal, or a measured external noise level and calculation of corresponding internal noise level); c) the level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise; d) atmospheric conditions including wind speed and direction; e) effects due to extraneous factors such as traffic noise; and f) location, date and time of recording.
- C4
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A13 and condition C3, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Table C1 (Noise Limits) Monday to Sunday (including public holidays) Noise Level Day Evening Night dB(A) (7am to 6pm) (6pm to 10pm) (10pm to 7am) Sensitive Place LAeq, adj, 15 mins1 RBL3 + 5 RBL3 + 5 RBL3 + 5 LA 1, adj, 15 mins2 45 45 45 NOTES: 1 External noise limit 2 Internal noise limit 3 Rated Background Level (RBL) as defined in the administering authority's Planning for Noise Control Guideline Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- C5
Vibration nuisance Vibration from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C6
Vibration is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C5 if monitoring shows that vibration does not exceed the limits specified in Table C2 (Vibration Limits).
- C7
Airblast overpressure nuisance The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations on the mining leases must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C8
Airblast overpressure is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C7 if monitoring shows that airblast overpressure does not exceed the levels specified in Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level).
- C9
Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A13, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: a) location of the blast(s) within the mining area (including which bench level); b) atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and direction; and c) location, date and time of recording.
- C10
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A13 and condition C9, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C2 (Vibration Limits) or Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Location Table C2 (Vibration Limits) Sensitive place or commercial place Vibration Measured Peak particle velocity (mm/s) For vibrations of more than 35 Hz - no more than 25 mm/s ground vibration For vibrations of no more than 35 Hz - no more than 10 mm/s ground vibration Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level) Location Airblast Overpressure Measured Sensitive place or commercial place 115 dB (Linear peak) for four (4) out of five (5) consecutive blasts regardless of the interval between blasts, and not greater than 120 dB (Linear peak) at any time. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule D: Waste Condition Condition number
- D1
Waste management A Waste Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented. The Waste Management Plan must include, but is not limited to: a) a description of the mining activities that may generate waste; b) a description of all waste activities being carried out; c) the location/s (including GPS coordinates) of where all waste activities are, or have been, carried out, including: i. the type of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; and ii. the volume of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; d) identification of the potential risks to the environment from all waste activities carried out; e) control measures to be implemented to minimise the potential for environmental harm associated with the carrying out of the waste activities, including but not limited to: i. segregation of the wastes; ii. storage of the wastes; iii. transport of the wastes; and iv. monitoring and reporting matters concerning the wastes; f) how the waste will be managed in accordance with the waste management hierarchy (that is, avoid, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, disposal); g) the hazardous characteristics of the wastes generated including disposal procedures for hazardous wastes; h) procedures for reprocessing waste in accordance with condition D4; i) procedures for managing accidents, spills and other incidents; j) the indicators or other criteria on which the performance of the waste management plan will be assessed; and k) staff training.
- D2
The environmental authority holder must submit the Waste Management Plan required by condition D1 to the administering authority prior to commencing a new process, or varying an existing process, for reprocessing any waste.
- D3
Waste receipt The only waste permitted to be received is: a) the types of waste specified in conditions D5 to D7 (inclusive); and b) sewage and sludge for treatment in accordance with Schedule H: Sewage Treatment; and c) from a BHP Billiton Mitsui Coal (BMC) or BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) site in Queensland. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- D4
Waste reprocessing The only waste permitted to be reprocessed is: a) spoil or overburden; b) vegetation; c) water or sediment containing hydrocarbons; d) fuels, oils, lubricants and coolants; e) bulk rubber; f) inert waste; g) poly-pipe and other plastic; h) fibreglass; i) treated and untreated timber; and j) asphalt.
- D5
Unless otherwise specified in conditions D6 and D7, waste, other than spoil or overburden or vegetation removed as part of the mining activity, must not be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority and must be taken to a facility that is lawfully allowed to accept such waste under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
- D6
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the specified features for the waste type: a) rejects: i. in spoil emplacements.
- D7
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority: a) bulk rubber; b) inert waste; c) poly-pipe and other plastic; d) fibreglass; e) treated and untreated timber; f) asphalt; and g) asbestos. These types of waste may be disposed of: a) in pits or voids; b) in spoil emplacements; and c) left in-situ below ground level. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule E: Land Condition Condition number
- E1
Topsoil Topsoil must be strategically stripped ahead of mining in accordance with a Topsoil Management Plan.
- E2
A topsoil inventory, which identifies the topsoil requirements for rehabilitation and availability of suitable topsoil on site, must be provided with any Estimated Rehabilitation Cost application.
- E3
PRCP schedule Progressive rehabilitation of the disturbed land must be carried out in accordance with the approved Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan (PRCP) Schedule P_PRCP_101029333 _V1 for this environmental authority.
- E4
Rehabilitation Monitoring Program Once rehabilitation has commenced, the environmental authority holder must conduct a Rehabilitation Monitoring Program at an interval no greater than two (2) years, which must include sufficient spatial and temporal replication to enable statistically valid conclusions as established under the rehabilitation program.
- E5
The Rehabilitation Monitoring Program must be developed and implemented by a person possessing appropriate qualifications and experience in the field of rehabilitation management, nominated by the environmental authority holder.
- E6
The Rehabilitation Monitoring Program must be included in the annual return and updated with each subsequent annual return, describing: a) how the rehabilitation objectives will be achieved; and b) verification of rehabilitation success. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- E7
Mining waste management A Mining Waste Management Plan together with the certification by an appropriately qualified person must be developed and implemented during the continuation of the environmental authority. The Mining Waste Management Plan must at a minimum include: a) characterisation programs to ensure that all mining waste is progressively characterised during disposal for net acid producing potential, salinity and the following contaminants: pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Acid Neutralising Capacity (ANC), Net Acid Generation (NAG) (reporting NAG capacity and NAG pH after oxidation), Net Acid Producing Potential (NAPP), Total Sulfur (S), Chromium Reducible Sulfur (Scr), Boron (B) Cadmium (Cd), Iron (Fe), Aluminium (Al), Copper (Cu), Magnesium (Mg), Manganese (Mn), Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na), Zinc (Zn) and Sulfate (SO4); b) characterisation programs to ensure that the physical properties of the mining waste is progressively characterised during disposal; c) the availability or leachability of metals from the mining waste; d) quantity of potentially acid forming (PAF) mining waste; e) review potential impacts of PAF mining waste on the success of proposed rehabilitation methods; f) management actions for mining waste that has been identified as having a high availability or leachability of metals in accordance with condition E13; g) management actions for mining waste that has been defined as PAF; h) identification of environmental impacts and potential environmental impacts; i) control measures for routine operations to minimise likelihood of environmental harm; j) contingency plans and emergency procedures for non-routine situations; and k) periodic review of environmental performance and continual improvement.
- E8
Acid mine drainage and leachate management Subject to the release limits defined in Schedule F: Water, all reasonable and practicable measures must be implemented to prevent hazardous leachate being directly or indirectly released or likely to be released as a result of the mining activity to the environment.
- E9
Preventing contaminant release to land Contaminants must not be released to land in manner that constitutes a nuisance, material harm or serious environmental harm.
- E10
Storage and handling of chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids All chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids must be stored and handled in accordance with the most recent version of an Australian Standard where such is applicable. Where no relevant Australian Standard exists, store such materials within an effective on-site containment system.
- E11
Flora and fauna A qualified spotter catcher is to be engaged to work ahead of the site clearing works at the commencement of the vegetation clearing activity. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- E12
The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a watercourse revegetation plan for all creek diversions including but not limited to: a) establishing benchmarks for vegetation condition in watercourses and riparian areas; b) describe how and when the revegetation objectives will be achieved; c) undertake ecological monitoring of aquatic ecology to ensure that the aquatic ecological values are maintained or enhanced; d) describe performance monitoring and reporting arrangements; and e) contingency actions should objectives not be achieved.
- E13
The watercourse revegetation plan must be submitted to the administering authority prior to the commencement of any creek diversions.
- E14
Biodiversity Offsets Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters are not authorised under this environmental authority or the Environmental Offsets Act 2014, unless the impact is specified in Table E1 (Authorised significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters).
- E15
Records demonstrating that each impact to a prescribed environmental matter did not, or is not likely to result in a significant residual impact to that matter must be: a) completed by an appropriately qualified person; and b) kept for the life of the environmental authority.
- E16
An environmental offset made in accordance with the Environmental Offsets Act 2014 and Queensland Environmental Offset Policy, as amended from time to time, must be undertaken for the maximum extent of impact to each prescribed environmental matter authorised in Table E1 (Authorised significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters).
- E17
The notice of election for the environmental offset required by condition E16, if applicable, must be provided to the administering authority no less than three months before the proposed commencement of the significant residual impacts for which the environmental offset is required.
- E18
Impacts to Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) are not permitted on areas shown in Appendix 1 - Approved Caval Ridge Mine Disturbance Extent as Restricted Surface Disturbance Authorised.
- E19
Surrender The holder must meet the conditions and the rehabilitation milestones under the approved PRCP Schedule P_PRCP_101029333 _V1 prior to the surrender of the environmental authority. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table E1 (Authorised significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters) Prescribed Environmental Matter Maximum extent of impact Offset Required Location In accordance with Appendix 2 - Location of Connectivity Areas 84.19ha Yes Authorised Significant Residual Impacts Regulated Vegetation In accordance with RE 11.8.11 Appendix 2 - Location of 12.3ha Yes Authorised Significant Residual Impacts Endangered Wildlife In accordance with D. queenslandicum (King Blue Appendix 2 - Location of Grass) 12.3ha Yes Authorised Significant Residual Impacts Vulnerable Wildlife In accordance with Ornamental Snake Habitat Appendix 2 - Location of 167.84ha Yes Authorised Significant Residual Impacts Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule F: Water Condition Condition number
- F1
Contaminant Release Contaminants that will or have the potential to cause environmental harm must not be released directly or indirectly to any waters as a result of the mining activities, except as permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority.
- F2
Unless otherwise permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority, the release of mine affected water to waters must only occur from the release points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points). Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) Release Easting Northing Mine Affected Water Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Point (GDA94) (GDA94) Source and Location Description (RP) 611939 7550179 12N Dam Discharge Point Cherwell Creek RP1
- F3
The release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must not exceed the release limits stated in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) when measured at the monitoring points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic. Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Monitoring Frequency Electrical Conductivity 10,000 Real time telemetry for EC and pH with grab samples at commencement (-S/cm) 6.5 (minimum) and weekly thereafter when safe to do so and access permits. pH 9.5 (maximum) Daily grab samples if telemetry not available. (pH units) (The first sample must be taken as soon as practicable following commencement of release)
- F4
The release of mine affected water to waters from the release points must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic and at the frequency specified in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels). NOTE: the administering authority will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances prior to determining an appropriate enforcement response in the event condition F4 is contravened due to a temporary lack of safe or practical access. The administering authority expects the environmental authority holder to take all reasonable and practicable measures to maintain safe and practical access to designated monitoring locations. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) Quality Characteristic Trigger Comment of Trigger Level Monitoring Level Frequency (-g/L) Aluminium 1200 For aquatic ecosystem protection (Interim trigger) Arsenic 13 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Boron Cadmium 370 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline 0.2 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Chromium 1 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Cobalt 90 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability guideline Copper 3 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Iron 830 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability guideline Lead 10 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Manganese 1900 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Mercury 0.2 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for CV FIMS Molybdenum 34 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability guideline As soon as Nickel Zinc 11 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline possible after Selenium Silver commencement Uranium 8 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline of active release, when 10 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS safe access permits, and 1 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS weekly thereafter.
- F5
If quality characteristics of the release exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) during a release event, the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results in the receiving waters to the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) and: (1) where the trigger values are not exceeded then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) for any quality characteristic, compare the results of the downstream site to the data from background monitoring sites and; (a) if the result is less than the background monitoring site data, then no action is to be taken; or (b) if the result is greater than the background monitoring site data, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority in the next annual return, outlining: i. details of the investigations carried out; and ii. actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with condition F5(2)(b), no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic.
- F6
If an exceedance in accordance with condition F5(2)(b) is identified, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the result.
- F7
Mine Affected Water Release Events The environmental authority holder must ensure a stream flow gauging station(s) is installed, operated and maintained to determine and record stream flows at the locations and flow recording frequency specified in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events).
- F8
The release of mine affected water to waters must only take place during periods of natural flow events specified as minimum flow in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) for the release point(s) specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points). All flow criteria listed in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) for both local receiving waterways and the Isaac River must be met for the duration of any release of mine affected water.
- F9
The release of mine affected water must not exceed the 80th percentile value of 2000 -S/cm when measured at the monitoring points specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background Sites and Down Stream Monitoring Points) during the release influence period. NOTE: Release influence period is the period during which the downstream monitoring points are influenced by mine affected water releases and includes both the duration of release and any lag time between the release point/s and downstream monitoring point/s.
- F10
The daily quantity of mine affected water released from each release point must be measured and recorded at the monitoring points in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F11
Releases to waters must be undertaken so as not to cause erosion of the bed and banks of the receiving waters, or cause a material build-up of sediment in such waters. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) Receiving Release Gauging Gauging Station Gauging Station Receiving Receiving Authorised waters Point Station Water Flow Water Flow Backup Easting Northing Criteria for Recording Gauging (RP) Discharge Frequency Station (GDA94) (GDA94) (m3/s) Cherwell RP1 Upper 609993 7547029 0.5 m3/s Daily during No backup Creek Cherwell discharge authorised Creek Isaac River RP1 Isaac River 642720 7547615 3 m3/s Continuous MP 20 Deverill* (minimum daily) during discharge * Low flow releases provide for releases on the tail end of a natural flow event. The low flow release window commences the moment the natural flow recedes below the flow trigger and spans a period of 28 days only.
- F12
Notification of release event The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after commencing to release mine affected water to the receiving environment. The release commencement notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release commencement date and time; b) expected release cessation date and time; c) release point(s); d) release rate; e) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and f) any details (including available data) regarding likely impacts on the receiving water(s).
- F13
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after cessation of a release event notified under condition F12. The release cessation notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release cessation date and time; b) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and c) volume of water released. NOTE: Successive or intermittent releases occurring within twenty-four (24) hours of the cessation of any individual release can be considered part of a single release event and do not require individual notification for the purpose of compliance with conditions F12 and F13 and F14, provided the relevant details of the release are included within the notification provided in accordance with conditions F12 and F13 and F14. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- F14
Within twenty-eight (28) days of notification under condition F13, the environmental authority holder must provide the administrating authority via WaTERS the following information in writing: a) confirmation of: b) the release commencement date and time; c) the release cessation date and time; d) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; e) volume of water released; f) all in-situ and laboratory water quality monitoring results; g) details regarding the compliance of the release with the conditions of Schedule F: Water of this environmental authority (i.e. contamination limits, natural flow, discharge volume); h) whether the release of water resulted in any impacts to the receiving environment; and i) any other matter(s) pertinent to the water release event.
- F15
Notification of release event exceedance If the release limits defined in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) are exceeded, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results.
- F16
The environmental authority holder must, within twenty-eight (28) days of the notification provided in accordance with condition F15, provide a report to the administering authority via WaTERS detailing: a) the reason for the release; b) the location of the release; c) the total volume of the release and which (if any) part of this volume was non-compliant; d) the total duration of the release and which (if any) part of this period was non-compliant; e) all water quality monitoring results; f) any general observations; g) all calculations; and h) any other matters pertinent to the water release event.
- F17
Receiving Environment Monitoring and Contaminant Trigger Levels The quality of the receiving waters must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) for each quality characteristic and at the monitoring frequency stated in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels). Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- F18
If quality characteristic(s) of the receiving water at the downstream monitoring points exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) during a release event the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results to the upstream results in the receiving waters and: (1) where the downstream result is the same or a lower value than the upstream value for the quality characteristic then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the upstream results, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority in the next annual return, outlining: (a) details of the investigations carried out; and (b) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated in accordance with F18(2) of this condition, no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic. Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) Quality Trigger Level Monitoring Frequency Characteristic 6.5 to 9.0 Real time telemetry for EC and pH with grab samples at pH (Isaac River Seloh Nolem commencement and weekly thereafter when safe to do (pH units) Downstream, or backup monitoring so and access permits. Electrical Conductivity point) Daily grab samples if telemetry not available. (-S/cm) (The first sample must be taken as soon as practicable 2000 following the commencement of the release influence Sulphate (SO42-) (Isaac River Seloh Nolem period at the downstream monitoring point) (mg/L) Downstream, or backup monitoring Commencement of release and thereafter weekly point) during release when safe to do so and access permits. (The first sample must be taken as soon as practicable 1000 following the commencement of the release influence (Isaac River Seloh Nolem Downstream, or backup monitoring period at the downstream monitoring point) point) Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table F6 (Receiving Waters Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Location Description Easting Northing (MP) (GDA94) (GDA94) Upstream (Background) Monitoring Points
- F19
The overflow of mine affected water to receiving waters is permitted provided that: a) monitoring is conducted at the locations detailed within Table F7 (Monitoring Locations for Overflow Releases); b) the dams are operated in accordance with their design as per the Mine Water Management System required by condition F28; and c) where the results exceed the trigger limits specified in Table F8 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels for Overflow Releases), an investigation is completed into the potential for environmental harm to occur and a written report is provided to the administering authority in the next annual return of the overflow event outlining: a) details of the investigation carried out; and j) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with F19(c) of this condition, no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table F7 (Monitoring Locations for Overflow Releases) Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Location Overflow Point Easting Northing (GDA94) (GDA94) (MP) Description 7549756 Manual Sampling Points 7550553
- F20
Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) to monitor, identify and describe any adverse impacts to surface water environmental values, quality and flows due to the authorised mining activity. This must include monitoring the effects of the mine on the receiving environment periodically (under natural flow conditions) and while mine affected water is being discharged from the site. For the purposes of the REMP, the receiving environment is the waters of the Cherwell Creek and connected or surrounding waterways within ten (10) kilometres downstream of the release. The REMP should encompass any sensitive receiving waters or environmental values downstream of the authorised mining activity that will potentially be directly affected by an authorised release of mine affected water.
- F21
A REMP Design Document that addresses the requirements of the REMP must be prepared and made available to the administrating authority upon request. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- F22
A report outlining the findings of the REMP, including all monitoring results and interpretations in accordance with conditions F20 and F21 must be prepared annually. This report must include the following: a) an assessment of background reference water quality; b) the condition of downstream water quality compared against water quality objectives; and c) the suitability of current discharge limits to protect downstream environmental values.
- F23
Water reuse Mine affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means that does not contravene the conditions of this environmental authority and deposited into artificial water storage structures, such as farm dams or tanks, or used directly at properties owned by the environmental authority holder or a third party (with the consent of the third party).
- F24
Annual water monitoring reporting The following information must be recorded in relation to all water monitoring required under the conditions of this environmental authority and submitted to the administering authority in the specified format with each annual return: a) the date on which the sample was taken; b) the time at which the sample was taken; c) the monitoring point at which the sample was taken; d) the measured or estimated daily quantity of mine affected water released from all release points; e) the release flow rate at the time of sampling for each release point; f) the results of all monitoring and details of any exceedances of the conditions of this environmental authority; and g) water quality monitoring data must be provided to the administering authority in the specified electronic format upon request.
- F25
Water Management Plan A Water Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person(s) and implemented for all mining activities.
- F26
Stormwater and water sediment controls An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented for all stages of the mining activities on the site to minimise erosion and the release of sediment to receiving waters and contamination of stormwater.
- F27
Stormwater, other than mine affected water, is permitted to be released to waters from: a) erosion and sediment control structures that are installed and operated in accordance with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan required by condition F26; and b) water management infrastructure that is installed and operated, in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with condition F25, for the purpose of ensuring water does not become mine affected water. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- F28
Mine Water Management System
- G1
Assessment of consequence category The consequence category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person, in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and a) prior to the design and construction of the structure, if it is not an existing structure; or b) prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- G2
A consequence assessment report and certification must be prepared for each structure assessed and the report may include a consequence assessment for more than one structure.
- G3
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who undertook the assessment, in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and
- G4
Design and construction of a regulated structure Conditions G5 to G9 inclusive do not apply to existing structures. NOTE: Construction of a dam includes modification of an existing dam - see definitions.
- G5
All regulated structures must be designed by, and constructed under the supervision of, a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the requirements of the Manual for April 2014) (EM635). NOTE: Certification of design and construction may be undertaken by different persons.
- G6
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted a consequence category assessment report and certification to the administering authority has been certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person for the design and design plan and the associated operating procedures in compliance with the relevant condition of this environmental authority.
- G7
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who oversees the preparation of the design plan in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence must be recorded in the Register of Regulated Structures. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- G8
Regulated structures must: a) be designed and constructed in accordance with and conform to the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures b) be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity would not be compromised on account of: i. floodwaters from entering the regulated dam from any watercourse or drainage line; and ii. wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line. c) for regulated dams associated with a failure to contain - seepage, have the floor and sides of the dam designed and constructed to prevent or minimise the passage of the wetting front and any entrained contaminants through either the floor or sides of the dam during the operational life of the dam and for any period of decommissioning and rehabilitation of the dam.
- G9
Certification by the suitably qualified and experienced person who supervises the construction must be submitted to the administering authority on the completion of construction of the regulated structure, and state that: a) the 'as constructed' drawings and specifications meet the original intent of the design plan for that regulated structure; and b) construction of the regulated structure is in accordance with the design plan.
- G10
Operation of a regulated structure Operation of a regulated structure, except for an existing structure, is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted to the administering authority: a) one paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the `design plan' in accordance with condition G6; b) a set of `as constructed' drawings and specifications; c) certification of those `as constructed drawings and specifications' in accordance with condition G9; d) where the regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, a copy of the certified system design plan; e) the requirements of this environmental authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; f) the environmental authority holder has entered the details, required under this environmental authority, into the Register of Regulated Structures; and g) there is a current operational plan for the regulated structures. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- G11
For existing structures that are regulated structures: a) where the existing structure that is a regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, the environmental authority holder must submit to the administering authority within twelve (12) months of the commencement of this condition a copy of the certified system design plan including that structure; and b) there must be a current operational plan for the existing structures.
- G12
Each regulated structure must be maintained and operated, for the duration of its operational life until decommissioned and rehabilitated, in a manner that is consistent with the current operational plan and, if applicable, the current design plan and associated certified `as constructed' drawings.
- G13
Mandatory Reporting Level Conditions G14 to G17 inclusive only apply to regulated structures which have not been certified as low consequence category for `failure to contain - overtopping'.
- G14
The Mandatory Reporting Level (the MRL) must be marked on a regulated dam in such a way that, during routine inspections of that dam, it is clearly observable.
- G15
The environmental authority holder must, as soon as practical and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware, notify the administering authority when the level of the contents of a regulated dam reaches the MRL.
- G16
The environmental authority holder must immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam.
- G17
The environmental authority holder must record any changes to the MRL in the Register of Regulated Structures.
- G18
Design Storage Allowance The environmental authority holder must assess the performance of each regulated dam or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated dam or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- G19
By 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the Design Storage Allowance (DSA) volume for the dam (or network of linked containment systems).
- G20
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority as soon as possible and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- G21
The environmental authority holder must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam or linked containment systems.
- G22
Annual inspection report Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- G23
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed and a suitably qualified and experienced person must prepare an annual inspection report containing details of the assessment and include recommended actions to ensure the integrity of the regulated structure.
- G24
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and
- G25
The environmental authority holder must: a) within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, provide to the administering authority: i. the recommendations section of the annual inspection report; and ii. if applicable, any actions being taken in response to those recommendations; and b) if, following receipt of the recommendations and (if applicable) actions, the administering authority requests a full copy of the annual inspection report from the environmental authority holder, provide this to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receipt of the request.
- G26
Transfer arrangements The environmental authority holder must provide a copy of any reports, documentation and certifications prepared under this environmental authority, including but not limited to any Register of Regulated Structures, consequence assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder on transfer of this authority.
- G27
Decommissioning and rehabilitation Dams must not be abandoned but be either: a) decommissioned and rehabilitated to achieve compliance with condition G28; or b) be left in-situ for a beneficial use(s) provided that: i. it no longer contains contaminants that will migrate into the environment; and ii. it contains water of a quality that is demonstrated to be suitable for its intended beneficial use(s); and iii. the administering authority, the environmental authority holder and the landholder agree in writing that the dam will be used by the landholder following the cessation of the environmentally relevant activity(ies). Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- G28
After decommissioning, all significantly disturbed land caused by the carrying out of the environmentally relevant activity(ies) must be rehabilitated to meet the following final acceptance criteria: a) the landform is safe for humans and fauna; b) the landform is stable with no subsidence or erosion gullies for at least three (3) years; c) any contaminated land (e.g. contaminated soils) is remediated and rehabilitated d) not allowing for acid mine drainage; or e) there is no ongoing contamination to waters (including groundwater); f) rehabilitation is undertaken in a manner such that any actual or potential acid sulphate soils on the area of significant disturbance are treated to prevent or minimise environmental harm in accordance with the Instructions for the treatment and management of acid sulfate soils (2001); g) all significantly disturbed land is reinstated to the pre-disturbed soil suitability class; h) for land that is not being cultivated by the landholder: i. groundcover, that is not a declared pest species is established and self-sustaining; ii. vegetation of similar species richness and species diversity to pre-selected analogue sites is established and self-sustaining; and iii. the maintenance requirements for rehabilitated land is no greater than that required for the land prior to its disturbance caused by carrying out the mining activity(ies). i) for land that is to be cultivated by the landholder, cover crop is revegetated, unless the landholder will be preparing the site for cropping within three (3) months of mining activities being completed.
- G29
Register of Regulated Structures A Register of Regulated Structures must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder for each regulated structure.
- G30
The environmental authority holder must provisionally enter the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures when a design plan for a regulated structure is submitted to the administering authority.
- G31
The environmental authority holder must make a final entry of the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures once compliance with condition G10 and G11 has been achieved.
- G32
The environmental authority holder must ensure that the information contained in the Register of Regulated Structures is current and complete on any given day.
- G33
All entries in the Register of Regulated Structures must be approved by the chief executive officer for the environmental authority holder, or their delegate, as being accurate and correct.
- G34
The environmental authority holder must, at the same time as providing the annual return, supply to the administering authority a copy of the records contained in the Register of Regulated Structures, in the electronic format required by the administering authority. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- G35
Transitional arrangements All existing structures that have not been assessed in accordance with either, the Manual or the former Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams, must be assessed and certified in accordance with the Manual within six (6) months of amendment of the environmental authority adopting this schedule.
- G36
All existing structures must subsequently comply with the timetable for any further assessments in accordance with the Manual specified in Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures), depending on the consequence category for each existing structure assessed in the most recent previous certification for that structure.
- G37
Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures) ceases to apply for a structure once any of the following events has occurred: a) it has been brought into compliance with the hydraulic performance criteria applicable to the structure under the Manual; or b) it has been decommissioned; or c) it has been certified as no longer being assessed as a regulated structure.
- G38
Certification of the transitional assessment required by G35 and G36 (as applicable) must be provided to the administering authority within six (6) months of amendment of the environmental authority adopting this schedule. Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures) Transition period required for existing structures to achieve the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Compliance with Criteria High Significant Low >90% and a history of good No transition required No transition required No transitional conditions compliance performance in apply. Review consequence assessment every 7 years. last 5 years >70% to 90% Within 7 years, unless Within 10 years, unless No transitional conditions 50 to 70% otherwise agreed with the otherwise agreed with the apply. Review consequence assessment every 7 years. administering authority, administering authority, based on no history of based on no history of Review consequence unauthorised releases. unauthorised releases. assessment every 7 years. Within 5 years unless Within 7 years unless otherwise agreed with the otherwise agreed with the administering authority, administering authority, based on no history of based on no history of unauthorised releases. unauthorised releases. 50% Within 5 years or as per Within 5 years or as per Review consequence compliance requirements compliance requirements assessment every 5 years. (e.g. TEP timing) (e.g. TEP timing) Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule H: Sewage Treatment Condition Condition number
- H1
Treated sewage effluent The cumulative total daily peak design capacity of the sewage treatment plant/s must not exceed 1500 equivalent persons (EP). Small package plants and/or septic systems, each with a daily peak design capacity less than 21EP, are not included in the cumulative total daily peak design capacity.
- H2
Treated sewage effluent must not be directly released from the sewage treatment plant/s to any waters. Note: `waters' does not include structures associated with the mine affected water management system.
- H3
Treated sewage effluent may be: a) released to the mine affected water management system for mixing with other mine affected water; b) released to land via a sub-surface infiltration trench; c) irrigated or sprayed for dust suppression or firefighting or evaporation; or d) removed as waste.
- H4
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(a) and has mixed with other mine affected water must be managed as mine affected water in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- H5
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(b) or H3(c) must be carried out in a manner such that: a) vegetation is not damaged; b) there is no surface ponding of effluent; and c) there is no run-off of treated sewage effluent to waters.
- H6
Treated sewage effluent released in accordance with condition H3(a) or H3(b) or H3(c) from any sewage treatment plant that has a daily peak design capacity of greater than 21EP must be monitored: a) at the point where the treated sewage effluent is released from the sewage treatment plant/s; b) for the quality characteristics specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements); and c) at the frequency specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements). Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements) Quality Characteristic Units Monitoring Frequency 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) mg/L pH pH units Monthly Colonies per 100mL Monthly Thermotolerant coliforms Total nitrogen mg/L Monthly mg/L Monthly Total phosphorus Monthly
- H7
If treated sewage effluent is being released in accordance with condition H3(c): a) the results of monitoring in accordance with condition H6 must not exceed the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits); and b) the release must not cause spray drift or over spray to any sensitive place or commercial place.
- H8
If the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) are exceeded in accordance with condition H7(a), the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority in accordance with conditions A7 and A8. Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Units Limit Type Maximum 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) 50 mg/L pH 6.0 to 9.0 pH units Range Maximum Thermotolerant coliforms, based on the average of a 1000 Colonies per 100mL minimum number of five samples collected Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Schedule I: Groundwater Condition Condition number
- I1
Groundwater The holder of this environmental authority must not release contaminants to groundwater.
- I2
Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program A Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program must be: a) developed by an appropriately qualified person; and b) implemented by the environmental authority holder for all stages of mining activities.
- I3
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program required by condition I2 must: a) identify potential groundwater impacts due to the mining activities; b) include a site conceptual groundwater model; c) describe the sampling and monitoring methodology; d) detail an appropriate quality assurance and quality control program; and e) provide the process for notifying the administering authority and investigating exceedances in accordance with conditions I4-I5.
- I4
Groundwater monitoring Groundwater quality and standing water levels must be monitored: a) at the locations and at the frequencies specified in Table I1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency); and b) for the quality characteristics specified in Table I2 (Groundwater Trigger Levels).
- I5
If the groundwater contaminant trigger levels defined in Table I2 (Groundwater Trigger Levels) are exceeded on three (3) consecutive monitoring occasions, the environmental authority holder must complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and notify the administering authority within twenty (20) business days of receiving the analysis results. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine
- I6
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program must be reviewed by 31 November 2023, and thereafter every two (2) years, by an appropriately qualified person. The review report must: a) analyse the results of groundwater monitoring to: i. describe any impacts to groundwater levels and groundwater quality due to the mining activity; ii. determine trends in groundwater levels and groundwater quality; b) assess the adequacy of the Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program; and c) provide recommendations to the environmental authority holder to address the findings of parts (a) and (b) of the review.
- I7
Within twenty (20) business days of receiving the review report, required by condition I6, the environmental authority holder must provide to the administering authority: a) the review report; b) if applicable, any actions being taken by the environmental authority holder to address the recommendations of the review report; and c) if action is not being taken to address a recommendation, the environmental authority holder must provide justification for not taking action.
- I8
Annual groundwater monitoring data must be submitted to the administering authority via WaTERS by 30 September each calendar year.
- I9
Bore construction The construction, management, maintenance and decommissioning of groundwater monitoring bores must be undertaken in a manner that: a) prevents contaminants entering the groundwater; b) ensures the integrity of the bores to obtain representative groundwater samples from the target aquifer; and c) maintains the hydrogeological environment within the aquifer.
- I10
The environmental authority holder will determine interim groundwater trigger values for inclusion in Table I2 (Groundwater Trigger Values) to replace all TBC values when a data set of eight (8) samples becomes available and supply them to the department via an amendment application. Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Table I1 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations and Frequency) Monitoring Location Aquifer Type Easting (GDA94) Northing (GDA94) Monitoring Frequency Interpretation Bores Quarterly PZ08-S Alluvial 611411 7549709 Annually
- PZ01
Compliance Bores 7560145 Annually
- PZ04
7555326 Annually PZ07-D Permian 609841 7550704 Annually
- PZ09
7548822 Annually PZ11-D Permian 610731 7547600 Annually PZ12-D 7557219 Annually PZ12-S Permian 612465 7557164 Annually MB19CVM09A 7550698 Annually MB19CVM02P Permian 614326 7549705 Quarterly MB19CVM07T 7552357 Quarterly MB19CVM08P Permian 616791 7552346 Quarterly MB20CVM01A 7560272 Quarterly MB20CVM04T Permian 610712 7559651 Quarterly MB20CVM05P 7559646 Quarterly MB20CVM06A Permian 610721 7548890 Quarterly CVMMB16_01 7558320 Quarterly CVMMB16_02 Alluvium 612448 7558315 Quarterly CVMPB07_02 7560272 Quarterly CVMMB100_01 Permian 611424 7558446 Tertiary Basalt 611464 MCM Coal - H Seam 611465 Alluvium 609915 Tertiary Basalt 608193 MCM Coal - D Seam 608198 Tertiary 610802 Tertiary 611144 MCM Coal - H Seam 611135 MCM Coal - H Seam 609915 Water Table 607640 Permit Environmental Authority Caval Ridge Mine Quality Table I2 (Groundwater Trigger Levels) Characteristic Trigger Levels Units PZ08-S PZ01 PZ04 PZ07-D PZ09 PZ11-D PZ12-S PZ12-D MB19CVM09A MB20CVM01A MB19CVM07T MB20CVM04T MB20CVM06A MB20CVM05P MB19CVM08P CVMMB16_01 CVMMB16_02 CVMMB07_02 CVMMB100_01 Groundwater RL Fluctuations in excess of 2m per year excluding changes from pumping of licenced bores Level pH 6.0-8.5 6.4-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.3-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.3-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.3-.8.5 6.5-8.5 TBC pH units 17,950 16,440 16,000 EC -S/cm 0,570 16,000 8,910 16,000 8,910 8,910 8,910 12,510 22,990 20,020 Sulphate mg/L 625 507 398 1300 398 318 398 318 318 318 456 2,1101 8921 0.0551 Dissolved mg/L 0.055 0.19 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.055 0.0551 0.0091 Aluminium mg/L 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.0131 0.0090 0.0090 0.0090 0.0090 0.0090 0.0090 0.0090 Dissolved 1.51