Background
SGME performed a soil and land resource assessment to support the closure plan and fulfil mandatory application requirements for activities with impacts to land. The site was a proposed large-scale open cut coal mine located in the Bowen Basin in Central Queensland, south of the client’s existing coal mine. The project was in the feasibility and planning stage when SGME completed the soil and land resource assessment.
Objective
The client required a soil survey and an assessment of land suitability / capability to support their development plan. It was expected that they would require approval through the environmental impact assessment process to demonstrate that the environmental objectives and performance outcomes could be met.
Solution
SGME was engaged by the client to do the soil survey and determine the suitability of materials for use in rehabilitation. SGME travelled to the mine and performed in-situ testing and sampling. This involved preparation of a full profile description for each soil sample including colour, texture, pedality and the amount of coarse material in each horizon. Samples were sent to a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory for chemical and physical characterisation prior to being analysed by SGME.
All soils were classified to the family level and assessed for fertility and erosion potential. A land suitability / capability assessment was then done to assess the potential for soil to sustain a post-mining land use.
SGME prepared a report that had regard for the environmental objectives and performance outcomes described in the government’s environmental regulations. It also assessed the suitability of soil for use in rehabilitation and identified key management issues.
Our expertise in soil and land resource assessment, supported by certified professional soil scientists, ensures accuracy of surveys, data and analyses, and results in comprehensive insights for informed decision-making, sustainable land management and environmental protection.
