Background
SGME was engaged to conduct a baseline assessment of a rehabilitated area to be used for grazing trials. The mine is approximately (~) 130 kilometres south-west of Mackay and ~30 kilometres north-east of Moranbah. It is situated in the Bowen Basin region of Central Queensland, near the town of Dysart.
Objective
SGME developed a rehabilitation management plan that described how to rehabilitate disturbed land at a coal mine. The plan addressed potential environmental impacts including soil degradation, vegetation loss, weed infestation and potential biodiversity decline. The plan is a mandatory requirement of the mine’s environmental licence to enable vegetation growth and comply with invasive plant control regulations that facilitate natural weed mortality.
Solution
SGME prepared the plan which presented a detailed strategy to address environmental challenges arising from mining by integrating established best practices with site-specific adjustments. It encompassed a comprehensive baseline assessment covering soil quality, vegetation restoration, weed control and erosion prevention, and it proposed specific activities such as seeding with native species, topsoil management, weed treatment methods and monitoring protocols.
SGME’s deep expertise is evident in our understanding of regulatory requirements and our commitment to sustainable practices, highlighting our ability to devise effective solutions for mine rehabilitation. The overarching goal of the plan was to ensure regulatory compliance, minimise environmental impacts and foster long-term ecological health post-mining which highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and adaptive management strategies.
At SGME, we’re dedicated to minimising the impacts of mining through habitat restoration and monitoring. We prioritise techniques such as revegetation to stabilise soil and protect biodiversity. Our approach includes advanced methods such as soil stabilisation and water management to enhance the resilience of restored habitats. Continuous monitoring is central to our success. By tracking habitat recovery progress and identifying potential challenges, we can make adjustments for an improved outcome. Our strategy involves careful planning, tailored approaches for each mine, stakeholder engagement, adaptive management and a long-term commitment to ecological restoration. Clients can rely on us for thorough assessments, strategic planning, native species support, clear goals, effective monitoring, adaptive strategies and successful habitat restoration results.
