Background
SGME was engaged to conduct a soil and land resource assessment which involved a soil survey, laboratory analysis, and land suitability and capability assessments. The mine is located near Lawn Hill in North West Queensland, Australia. It is approximately (~) 250 kilometers west of Townsville and ~550 kilometers north-west of Cairns.
Objective
The client was considering a greenfield expansion of the mine which required a land resource assessment to inform their environmental impact statement and support their environmental licence application.
Solution
SGME undertook a soil and land resource assessment with the aims of supporting the application processes for a mining lease and environmental licence, and informing closure planning.
SGME used desktop reviews, erosion rate estimations using the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) and detailed soil assessments involving sampling and laboratory analysis. The assessment covered soil characteristics, erosion potential, fertility and land suitability.
Findings from the assessment allowed for categorisation of soils into various classes based on their limitations and potential for different land uses. Recommendations were provided for soil management, amelioration and control measures to protect environmental values and ensure sustainable land use practices were implemented.
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.
