Cape Lambert Port B Development

Cape Lambert Port B Development

ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING DOCUMENT

26 June 2008

The SKM logo is a trade mark of Sinclair Knight Merz Pty Ltd. © Sinclair Knight Merz Pty Ltd, 2006

Cape Lambert Port B Development

ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING DOCUMENT

26 June 2008

Sinclair Knight Merz 7th Floor, Durack Centre 263 Adelaide Terrace PO Box H615 Perth WA 6001 Australia Tel: +61 8 9268 4400 Fax: +61 8 9268 4488 Web: www.skmconsulting.com

LIMITATION: This report has been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of Sinclair Knight Merz Pty Ltd’s Client, and is subject to and issued in connection with the provisions of the agreement between Sinclair Knight Merz and its Client. Sinclair Knight Merz accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any third party.

Cape Lambert Port B Development Environmental Scoping Document

SINCLAIR KNIGHT MERZ PAGE i

Contents

1. Introduction 1 1.1 Background 1 1.2 Purpose of Environmental Scoping Document 1 1.3 Identification of Proponent 2 1.4 Existing Facilities 3 1.5 Project Justification and local context 3 1.6 Early Works 4

2. Summary of Proposal 5 2.1 Proposal Outline 5 2.2 Approvals Strategy 5 2.3 Key Project Characteristics 5 2.4 Stockyard Management 6 2.5 Ore Delivery Systems 6 2.6 Wharf Works 6 2.7 Dredging Program 7 2.8 Services and Utilities 7 2.8.1 Support and Infrastructure Facilities 7 2.8.2 Water Supply 7 2.9 Alternatives Considered 8

3. Applicable Legislation 9 3.1 Western Australian Legislation 9 3.2 Commonwealth Legislation 9

4. Regional Setting 10 4.1 Climate 10 4.2 Geology and Soil 10 4.3 Physiographic Context 10 4.3.1 Landforms 10 4.3.2 Land systems 11 4.4 Marine Environment 11 4.5 Hydrology 13 4.6 Hydrogeology 13 4.7 Biological Context 13 4.7.1 Flora and Vegetation 13 4.7.2 Fauna 15 4.8 Land Tenure 17 4.9 Surrounding Land Uses 17 4.10 Heritage 18 4.10.1 Aboriginal Heritage 18 4.10.2 European Heritage 18


SINCLAIR KNIGHT MERZ

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5. Environmental Issues and Management 19 5.1 Principles of Environmental Protection 19 5.2 Environmental Management 20

6. Scope of Work for Public Environmental Review 25 6.1 Air Quality (Dust) 25 6.1.1 Purpose 25 6.1.2 Scope 25 6.2 Noise 25 6.2.1 Purpose 25 6.2.2 Scope 26 6.3 Light Spill 26 6.3.1 Purpose 26 6.3.2 Scope 26 6.4 Climate Change 27 6.4.1 Purpose 27 6.5 Vegetation and Flora 27 6.5.1 Purpose 27 6.5.2 Scope 27 6.6 Fauna 28 6.6.1 Sea Turtles 28 6.6.2 Terrestrial 29 6.7 Dredging and Spoil Disposal Studies 30 6.7.1 Purpose 30 6.7.2 Scope 30 6.8 Marine Water Quality 35 6.8.1 Purpose 35 6.8.2 Scope 35 6.9 Stormwater Management 35 6.9.1 Purpose 35 6.9.2 Scope 36 6.10 Water Resources 36 6.10.1 Purpose 36 6.10.2 Scope 36 6.11 Aboriginal Heritage 36 6.11.1 Purpose 36 6.11.2 Scope 36 6.12 Visual Amenity/Landscape 37 6.12.1 Purpose 37 6.12.2 Scope 37 6.13 Soils and Landforms 38 6.13.1 Purpose 38 6.13.2 Scope 38 6.14 Traffic 38 6.14.1 Purpose 38



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6.14.2 Scope 38 6.15 Minor Environmental Factors 39 6.16 Preparation of the PER 39 6.17 Environmental Offsets 39

7. Stakeholder Consultation 40 7.1 Consultation to Date 40 7.2 Ongoing Consultation 41

8. Project and Assessment Schedule 43

9. Study Team and Peer Review 44 9.1 Study Team 44 9.2 Peer Review 44

References 45

Figures 49

Appendix A Review of Data Requirements and Availability for Dredge Modelling 58



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List of Tables

Table 1 Preliminary Key Project Characteristics 6

Table 2 Threatened and Priority Fauna Occurring within 50 km of Cape Lambert 16

Table 3 Marine Turtles in the Cape Lambert Region 17

Table 4 Principles of Environmental Protection 19

Table 5 Key Environmental Factors and Principles for Assessment 23

Table 6 Framework Environmental Management Plan Format 25

Table 7 Key Issues Raised by Stakeholders to Date 40

Table 8 Indicative Project and Assessment Schedule 43

Table 9 Key Study Personnel 44

List of Figures

Figure 1 Location of Cape Lambert Facilities 51

Figure 2 Preliminary Cape Lambert Port B Development Layout Arrangement 53

Figure 3 Marine Environment in the Cape Lambert Study Area 55

Figure 4 Known Turtle Nesting Beaches in the Study Area 57


SINCLAIR KNIGHT MERZ PAGE 1

1. Introduction

1.1 Background Pilbara Iron operates the port operations at Cape Lambert, on behalf of Robe River Iron Associates (Robe River). The Cape Lambert port operations are located north-west of Point Samson (Figure 1).

The Cape Lambert port facility was constructed in 1972 and currently has a capacity of around 60 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa). The operation has undergone various upgrades to meet increasing customer demand, with the current approved throughput capacity at 85 Mtpa 1. The operations consist of an iron ore handling, processing and ship loading facility.

With the rise for global demand in iron ore predicted to continue, Pilbara Iron is proposing to construct a second ore handling, processing and ship loading facility at Cape Lambert. The proposed capacity of this development is approximately 100 Mtpa (but may be up to 130 Mtpa). The exact capacity of the development will be determined during the Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS).

The Cape Lambert Port B development (referred to hereafter as the Port B development) is currently in the PFS stage, which will extend until Quarter 4 2008. Depending on the findings of the PFS and Rio Tinto commitment to progress into a more detailed study, a Feasibility Study (FS) will continue through to mid 2009.

The increase in throughput capacity will be achieved through development of the new terminal at Cape Lambert and will involve both nearshore and onshore works, as shown in Figure 2. The Port B development is effectively a brown-field extension to the existing Cape Lambert operation. Nearshore works include dredging, construction of an approach jetty and a wharf with berthing pockets to accommodate up to four vessels at a time. Onshore works will include construction of new car dumping, stacking, stockpiling, reclaiming, screening, sampling and ship loading facilities. Other new facilities will include railway modifications to service the stockyard, possibly some workshop/s, warehouse and offices, some new road construction and road re-alignments and associated necessary port infrastructure facilities. The Port B development workforce construction workforce is expected to peak at approximately 1850 personnel.

1.2 Purpose of Environmental Scoping Document The Port B development was referred to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) under Section 38 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) on 8 November 2007. The EPA proposed a Public Environmental Review (PER) with an eight week review period level of assessment. This decision was subject to a two week appeals period, during which time no appeals were received.

1 It should be noted that the actual Cape Lambert capacity following the current upgrade will be 80Mtpa, whereas the approved throughput capacity is 85Mtpa. This allows for possible future operational efficiencies to be achieved whilst remaining within the approved capacity.



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Assessment at the level of PER requires the proponent to prepare an Environmental Scoping Document. The purpose of this document is to provide a basis of understanding with the EPA regarding the scope of the assessment of the Port B development as well as providing an indicative timeline for the assessment. This document provides a summary of the potential environmental impacts, their significance and potential management responses, proposed scope of studies which will underpin the assessment of the environmental acceptability of the proposal, key legislation, stakeholder consultation programme, project and assessment schedule, study team and peer review mechanisms. This document has been prepared in accordance with the EPA’s Guide for proponents preparing Environmental Scoping Documents (EPA 2007a).

The Port B development was also referred to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) on 12 February 2008. The development was determined to be a controlled action under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwth) (EPBC Act). This Environmental Scoping Document and the PER will be prepared to meet the requirements of the EPBC Act, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000 (Cwth) (EPBC Regulations) and the Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1981 (Cwth).

The controlling provisions, that is those matters deemed significant for this proposal, for the action under the EPBC Act include:

Listed threatened species and communities (sections 18 & 18A)

Listed migratory species (sections 20 & 20A)

Commonwealth marine areas (section 23 & 24A)

The proposed action was deemed likely to have a significant impact for the following reasons:

Several species of turtles, dolphins, dugong and whales have been identified as likely to occur in the waters around Cape Lambert.

Uncertainty around the proposed location of the new spoil ground and specific details relating to dredging and spoil disposal.

1.3 Identification of Proponent The Proponent for the Port B development is Pilbara Iron Pty Limited (Pilbara Iron), a wholly owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto Iron Ore. The contact person for the Project is:

Mr Peter Royce Principal Advisor - Environmental Approvals Rio Tinto Iron Ore Expansion Projects

Level 24, 152–158 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA, 6000

GPO Box A42, Perth, WA 6837

Telephone: +61 8 9327 2351 Facsimile: +61 8 9327 2696

Email: [email protected]



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1.4 Existing Facilities The existing and approved facilities for Cape Lambert provide the foundation for the proposed Port B development. The Cape Lambert 85 Mtpa upgrade project was approved under Ministerial Statements 000741 and 000743, and is currently under construction. The key components of the existing Cape Lambert Port facilities (incorporating those facilities associated with the Cape Lambert 85 Mtpa upgrade) include:

four berths

3 km long wharf

two car dumpers

two screenhouses

five sample stations

four stackers

four reclaimers

two shiploaders.

1.5 Project Justification and local context Driven largely by the strength of the Chinese market, growth in the global iron ore market has continued to exceed expectations. It is predicted that iron ore will continue its strong run into 2008 and beyond as China searches for more raw materials. The development of a second terminal at the Cape Lambert operations will ensure that Pilbara Iron remains a major iron ore producer, maintains its market share, and continues to be a local employer and export earner in the long term.

The proposed increase in port throughput will provide benefits to the State and Nation including:

increased contribution towards the nation’s annual income through export sale of iron ore

increased revenue to the State and Federal Government from taxes, levies and royalties from the production of iron ore and from taxation income from the Robe profits

direct creation of additional employment opportunities through the provision of services and supplies to Robe such as contracts for ongoing maintenance and repairs

ongoing contribution to the local economy and community through employee expenditure, company subsidies and contributions.

To satisfy the requirements of the DEWHA, the PER will briefly address:

consequences of not proceeding with the action

how the action relates to any other actions that have been, or are being taken or that have been approved in the region affected by the action

other approvals and conditions relating to the proposal

the environmental; record of the proponent.



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1.6 Early Works A number of other tasks will be required to be completed at Cape Lambert prior to construction of the Port B development. Environmental approvals for these tasks will be progressed outside the scope of the Port B development approvals process. These early works include:

gas pipeline relocation (rationale: move existing infrastructure outside proposed Port B footprint)

heavy offload facility (HOF)/tug harbour extension (rationale: allow for off-loading of large items of equipment for Port B and future developments) – note that dredging associated with this will be addressed in the PER

quarry extension (rationale: source of construction material for HOF/tug harbour extension)

landfill relocation (rationale: move existing infrastructure outside proposed Port B footprint)

transmission line relocation (rationale: move existing infrastructure outside proposed Port B footprint)

expansion/new accommodation premises (rationale: provide additional rooms for construction workforce)

minor roads.

Where appropriate, these works will be referred to the EPA and/or DEWHA and/or an application for a Native Vegetation Clearing Permit under Part V of the EP Act (WA) will be made to the Western Australian Department of Industry and Resources. These works will not form part of the PER.



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2. Summary of Proposal

2.1 Proposal Outline The Cape Lambert Operation is located within the Shire of Roebourne, 4 km north-west of the town of Point Samson, 10 km north of Wickham and 20 km north of Roebourne on the coast of Western Australia (Figure 1). The proposed Port B development is immediately adjacent to the existing Cape Lambert port facility and would be managed by Pilbara Iron.

This proposal is to develop a second terminal at Cape Lambert capable of shipping in the order of 100 – 130 Mtpa. Cape Lambert is being considered for potential future expansions to achieve approximately 200 Mtpa capacity (bringing total port capacity to approximately 285 Mtpa); however, any future expansions will be subject to separate approvals with referrals to both EPA and DEWHA expected to be required.

2.2 Approvals Strategy Works to be considered as part of the Port B development include the following:

stockyard

ore delivery system (incorporating car dumpers, rail tracks, conveyors and transfer stations, stackers and reclaimers, shiploaders and screenhouses)

jetty and wharf construction

dredging (approximately 16 million m3 including berths, turning basin, channel and tug harbour)

laydown areas and offices

warehouses and workshops

relocation of existing fuel tanks (if required)

2.3 Key Project Characteristics Construction is scheduled to commence in October 2009. A detailed project and approvals schedule is presented in Section 8. The key project characteristics, as known at this stage of the PFS for the Port B development are provided in Table 1.



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Table 1 Preliminary Key Project Characteristics

Project Characteristic Cape Lambert Port B development *

Project life 50 years Cape Lambert capacity 100 Mtpa (but potentially 20 to 30% higher – to be determined during PFS) Wharf length Up to 3500 m Number of ship loading berths Up to 4 Dredging components Dredging for berth pockets, turning basin, channel and HOF/tug harbour and

placement of spoil at existing and possible new spoil grounds. Estimated dredge volume of 16 million m3.

Live stockpile capacity 3 – 6 Mtpa Bulk stockpile capacity No separate or dedicated bulking stockyards Number of products 3 – 5 Number of train arrivals 15 – 16 per day Facility footprint Approximately 600 ha (maximum) Major plant components

2 – 3 Car Dumpers 2 Screenhouses 5 Sample stations 4 – 5 Stackers 3 – 4 Reclaimers 2 Ship loaders

Plant operation 24 hours, 7 days per week Water requirements Approximately 1.7 GL/year Shipping movements Approximately 600 – 800 ships per year Workforce Construction peak –1850 personnel

Operations - several hundred personnel *Characteristics for the Port B development refer to characteristics for that development only. Table 1 does not include existing approved Cape Lambert operations.

2.4 Stockyard Management The proposed increase in throughput at Cape Lambert will require an increase in materials handling and the construction of a new stockyard. The stockyard shown in Figure 2 is the initial concept, and it may change as the PFS progresses; the PER will provide the most definite layout. The stockyard will involve use of stackers to enable ore to be placed into stockpiles and reclaimers to facilitate increased outward ore movement, combined with new ship loading facilities. The stockyard and port facilities are to be located to the west of the current operations. No separate or dedicated bulking stockyard is proposed.

2.5 Ore Delivery Systems Ore will be unloaded from rail wagons using one of multiple car dumpers. New rail tracks will be required on the approaches and exist sides of the car dumpers. Conveyors will move ore from the car dumpers to appropriate stockpiles via the stackers. New conveyors and transfer stations will be constructed to service the stacking, reclaiming and ship loading facilities. Lump rescreening will be undertaken to separate fines from lump product, with fines returned to the stockyard and lump conveyed onward to the wharf ship loaders.

2.6 Wharf Works New ship loading facilities will be built to the west of the existing Cape Lambert wharf. This will comprise an approach jetty and wharf up to approximately 3.5 km in length. Two ship loaders will be



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constructed, along with wharf conveyors, to service the additional four ship loading berths. Although the wharf and approaches have not yet been finalised, the final design is likely to be a piled structure to support equipment and provide road access from the onshore works to the wharf.

2.7 Dredging Program The construction of the additional ship loading facilities will require dredging to establish berth pockets, swing basins, the HOF/tug harbour, and to connect a new shipping channel to the existing shipping channel.

The dredging program will consist of capital dredging involving the removal of an estimated 16 million cubic metres (Mm3) of mostly previously undisturbed material. All dredging work will be within state waters. Dredging will be undertaken using a combination of a trailer hopper suction dredge (THSD) and cutter suction dredge (CSD). The dredging method will be similar to that recently completed for the current upgrade.

Spoil will be transported to existing and/or new offshore spoil grounds. A Sea Dumping Permit will be required under the Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1981 for the placement of spoil at the off-shore spoil grounds. The material types to be dredged are expected to be similar to that dredged in previous campaigns. Material varies from mainly medium sized sands through to very fine gravels overlying harder pavement.

2.8 Services and Utilities

2.8.1 Support and Infrastructure Facilities The following facilities will be required to support the construction activities:

laydown and storage areas

construction contractor offices.

Additional facilities that may be constructed include workshops, warehouses, offices and associated operational support facilities. In addition, some roads and bridges (over railway) will be required to be constructed; the locations of these have not yet been determined.

2.8.2 Water Supply Water for the existing operations is sourced from Millstream and Harding Dam via the Water Corporation. The existing operations use approximately 1.33 GL of water per year.

For the Port B development, it is estimated that additional water will be required for the following:

dust suppression

general construction activities

potable water for staff amenities and safety stations.



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To accommodate the anticipated increase in water demand from the Port B development (approximately 1.7 GL/a), a number of supply options are currently being considered as part of a separate study for supply of water to the wider coastal Pilbara region. The preliminary findings of this study will be detailed within the PER. It is likely that the current water supply system will be revised which may include the relocation of some supply pipelines. The sustainable use of existing water supplies will be reviewed in consultation with the Water Corporation.

2.9 Alternatives Considered Planned expansions of current resources managed by Pilbara Iron have driven the need for increased handling capacity at port facilities. Options for catering for this increased demand have included expansion of existing port operations at Dampier (Parker Point or East Intercourse Island) and Cape Lambert. The development of a greenfield port was also considered at various locations along the Pilbara Coast, including Dixon Island. Expansion of the port facilities at Cape Lambert was preferred for a number of reasons including:

Environmental – brownfield development with less need for disturbance or clearing of undisturbed land

Community – increased distance from sensitive noise and dust receptors compared to Dampier

Efficiency – ability to utilise existing tenure, support infrastructure and services, thereby maximising synergy opportunities

Cost.

Four expansion options for the Cape Lambert port facilities were considered:

15 Mtpa expansion of the current throughput to 95 Mtpa

50 Mtpa, expandable to 100 Mtpa, that would not affect current berthing arrangements

100 Mtpa expansion, excluding the 50 Mtpa step

100 Mtpa, expandable by 50 Mtpa steps up to 200 Mtpa.

The final option was chosen on the basis of future throughput projections and engineering constraints.

As stated in Section 2.3, the consequences of not proceeding with the proposal will also be briefly addressed in the PER.



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3. Applicable Legislation

3.1 Western Australian Legislation The main Western Australian legislation relevant to the Port B development includes:

Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 Iron Ore (Robe River) Agreement Act 1964

Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Land Administration Act 1997

Act 1976 Local Government Act 1995

Bush Fires Act 1954 Main Roads Act 1930

Conservation and Land Management Act 1984 Marine and Harbours Act 1981

Contaminated Sites Act 2003 Mining Act 1978

Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947 Native Title (State Provisions) Act 1999

Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 Pollution of Waters by Oil – Noxious

Dangerous Goods (Transport) Act 1998 Substances Act 1987

Electricity Act 1945 Rail Safety Act 1998

Environmental Protection Act 1986 Shipping Pilotage Act 1987

Explosives and Dangerous Goods Act 1961 Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

Health Act 1911

3.2 Commonwealth Legislation The Commonwealth legislation relevant to the Port B development includes:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Environment Protection (Sea Dumping) Act 1981

Native Title Act 1993.

The Port B development was determined to be a ‘controlled action’ under the EPBC Act on 25 March 2008. The ESD and PER will be prepared to incorporate both the State and Commonwealth environmental approvals requirements. The controlling provisions under the EPBC Act are listed in Section 1.2.



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4. Regional Setting

4.1 Climate Cape Lambert has a tropical-arid climate comprising of two dominant seasons: a hot summer with erratic, heavy rainfalls from October to April, and a mild winter with occasional rains from May to September. The local annual average rainfall is 314.4 mm with an average of 12 rain days with average daily temperatures ranging from minima of 13.3°C to maxima of 36.6°C (BOM 2007). Cyclone events are experienced during the summer season.

4.2 Geology and Soil The Geological Survey of Western Australia (GSWA, 1979) indicates that the Cape Lambert area is underlain by Archaean banded cherts and metasediments of the Clearville Formation and fractured Proterozoic basalts of the Mount Roe Basalt Formation. Quaternary superficial deposits overlie the Precambrian bedrock in low-lying areas. These comprise Pleistocene and Holocene dune sands (up to 20 m in thickness) and Holocene muds and silts (up to 5 m in thickness) associated with the mangrove tidal flats. The mud and silt is believed to have been deposited in the intertidal and supratidal zone.

Previous investigations have identified three main lithological successions beneath the site:

Valley Floor Drainage Area. Characterised by surficial alluvial and colluvial sediments (gravely, sandy clay, 1 to 5 m in thickness) underlain by a calcrete layer in the north of the site, and in turn underlain by weathered basalt basement.

Basalt Ridges. Characterised by a shallow colluvial soil (gravelly sand 0.5 to 2.0 m in thickness) underlain directly by a basalt basement.

Foredune Area. Located between the ocean and the basalt ridges, this area comprises calcareous dunal sands, up to 5 m in thickness, overlying basalt basement.

4.3 Physiographic Context

4.3.1 Landforms The site is characterised by a north-east / south-west trending alluvial valley, located between two basalt ridges that extend to the Indian Ocean. The basalt ridges act as surface water divides. A creek line (Sam’s Creek) dissects the valley at its lowest point, and flows eastwards towards the ocean. A second creek line (John’s Creek) rises approximately 1 km east of the railway workshops, and flows in a south-east direction, to the ocean just south of Point Samson.

The site is relatively flat-lying within the alluvial flood plain, rising gently to the south. The basalt ridges to the east and west form a steep boundary with elevations up to 30 m higher than the valley floor. Prior to the development of the Cape Lambert operations, it is likely that the low-lying areas drained to mangrove communities associated with local creeks.



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4.3.2 Land systems Based on geographic information system mapping layers provided by the Department of Land Information, the development area predominately occurs in the following land systems:

Ruth - hills and ridges of volcanic and other rocks supporting hard spinifex (occasionally soft spinifex) grasslands.

Littoral - Bare coastal mudflats with mangroves on seaward fringes, samphire flats, sandy islands, coastal dunes and beaches.

The Rocklea land system occurs further inland at Cape Lambert. The proposed development will not directly impact this land system.

4.4 Marine Environment The port facilities of Cape Lambert are located on the North West shelf which comprises 95 000 km² of continental shelf extending from the North West Cape of Western Australia to the Arafura Sea. The marine environment in the Cape Lambert region contains physical, biological, ecological and social features including marine habitats, marine fauna species, shipping, commercial fisheries and recreational pursuits. Key characteristics of the area are as follows:

The bathymetry off Cape Lambert is complex with depths generally less than 20 m. The broad, shallow nearshore region (<10 m) has several exposed reefs and islands including Bezout Island and Bells Reef. Reefs are generally in 1–10 m water depths and orientated in an east–west direction. Beyond this, the offshore region is characterised by depths ranging from 8–17 m. (Figure 3).

The benthic marine habitat within the Cape Lambert region consists predominantly of three habitat groups: sand and silty habitat (coastal and offshore areas); soft coral and sponge habitat; and hard coral habitat (shallow coastal and island areas).

Sand and silt habitat dominates the nearshore environment in the Cape Lambert area. The sediment shows a seaward gradient from coarse sand to finer silts. Infaunal and epifaunal species occur within this habitat. This habitat has variable water quality with respect to turbidity with highly turbid conditions in summer, and clearer conditions in late autumn through to early spring (with winter typically having the best conditions). Permanent benthic primary producer habitats, such as seagrass meadows, have not been identified in this area.

Hard substrate in the sub-tidal marine environment is found where the water depth exceeds 5 m and the conditions are suitable for colonisation by soft coral and sponge species (SKM 2007). Macroalgae is often also present. The soft coral and sponge communities in the region are highly diverse and vary from small patches (in the order of a few square metres per hectare) to areas occupying several hectares. These communities are found on offshore reefs such as Tessa Shoals, near Bezout and Delambre Islands and elevated seabeds to the north of the shipping channel. The size and extent of the communities appear to be dependent upon the presence of hard substrate for colonisation, although in some areas where sediments predominate, there can be a diversity of soft corals and sponges, many of which are attached to small pieces of rubble or gravel lying in the



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sediments. Although these communities can be diverse, the percentage cover of the biota was only 11% in the most densely colonised areas (SKM 2007).

Hard coral habitat in the turbid waters of the Cape Lambert region is generally confined to shallow sub-tidal areas (<8 m) where there is less sediment deposition and more available light. Hard coral communities exist along the western shoreline of Cape Lambert, on the western side of Bezout Island, at Bezout Rock, Bells Reef, at several locations near Dixon Island and around Delambre Island. The majority of these coral habitats have a low diversity with the coral colonies being sparsely distributed. Percentage coral cover is less than 5% at Bezout Rock, Bells Reef, West Cape Lambert, Dixon Island East and Dixon Island West. The two main areas where coral reefs have become established are at Delambre Island and the western side of Bezout Island with each site containing approximately 40% coral cover. The diversity of corals species is high, but there is no evidence of reef building at any sites other than the outer reefs of Delambre Island. The coral community typically reflects the effects of turbidity and sedimentation. Hence, communities at sites with relatively clear water such as Delambre and Bezout Islands are dominated by Acropora, Montipora, Porites and Pectinia, while communities at more turbid sites are dominated by Favia, Fungia, Galaxea, Goniastrea, Lobophyllia, Monitpora, Platygyra, Turbinaria and Porites.

The marine flora and fauna present within any of the habitat types are comprised of a suite of species that are commonly found in similar habitat types along much of the macro tidal coastline of Northern Australia and many of these species are widely distributed throughout the tropical Indo-West Pacific region. The diversity and abundance of the species present at a site is dependent on the range of habitats available and the complexity of each habitat type. For example, fish associated with corals increase in diversity and abundance as the percent cover, diversity and structural complexity of the coral community increases.

Tides occur twice daily (semi-diurnal) with a tidal range of approximately 5 m. Water movement in the region during spring tides are more influenced by tidal currents than local wind conditions. Mean current velocities average 0.28 m/s (0.54 knots) (Maunsell 1981).

The closest protected area is the proposed Dampier Archipelago Marine Park, approximately 10 km from the area of proposed dredging. The proposed Delambre Island Sanctuary Zone is also approximately 10 km from the proposed dredging channel.

The major commercial fishing activities in the Cape Lambert Region are prawn trawling and pearling. The nearest commercial fishery to the proposed dredging program is the prawn fishery in Nickol Bay. The closest coastal operational pearl farm is on the western side of Dixon Island. There is also a pearling hatchery in Johns Creek. A vacant pearl lease, owned by Fantome Pearls Pty Ltd is located adjacent to the proposed Port development.

No target Australian Ballast Water Management Advisory Council (ABWMAC) species were identified during a marine pest species survey in 2001 (Ecologia 2002).



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4.5 Hydrology There are five main drainage catchments that occur across the Cape Lambert operations. The main surface water body at the Cape Lambert operations is the open drainage channel that runs along the western side of the railway line into Sam’s Creek. A cooling water outlet drains run-off and treated floor washdown water from the power station into the ocean at the Cooling Water Discharge Beach.

4.6 Hydrogeology The water table in the Cape Lambert area ranges between 2 m and 9 m below ground level (WRC 2003). Similarly, site investigations across the Cape Lambert operations indicate that depth to groundwater varies from approximately 1.3 to 8.4 m below ground level, or 0.5 m above Australian Height Datum (AHD). The groundwater occurs in surficial deposits and fractured basalt (GEM, 1998) and flows westward towards the Indian Ocean. In the area north of the tank farm, the groundwater flows in north-west direction, and in a south-west direction in the area south of the tank farm.

The nearest groundwater abstraction bores are approximately 3 km to the south-east of the site boundary at Point Samson (WRC, 2003).

The Urban Geology Series Map (GSWA, 1979) indicates that there are no large supplies of freshwater in the area. Consequently, the Cape Lambert operations and the town of Wickham are supplied with water from Millstream and Harding Dam by the Water Corporation. The groundwater at Cape Lambert is only suitable for stock watering (where total dissolved solids are greater than 3000 mg/l). Groundwater supplies are generally found within the Quaternary alluvial sediments, while some limited groundwater could be obtained from fractured Precambrian bedrock.

4.7 Biological Context

4.7.1 Flora and Vegetation

4.7.1.1 Regional Flora and Vegetation Cape Lambert is situated within the Pilbara bioregion2 of Western Australia (CALM, 2002) which is further divided into four subregions: Chichester (PIL1), Fortescue (PIL2), Hamersley (PIL3) and Roebourne (PIL4). Cape Lambert is situated near the boundaries of the Roebourne (PIL 4) and Chichester (PIL 1) IBRA subregions of the Pilbara (CALM, 2002).

The Roebourne subregion comprises Quaternary alluvial and older colluvial coastal and sub-coastal plains, with a grass savanna of mixed bunch and hummock grasses, and dwarf shrub steppe of Acacia pyrifolia and A. inequilatera. Resistant linear ranges of basalts occur across the coastal plains. Uplands are dominated by Triodia (spinifex) hummock grasslands. Ephemeral drainage lines support Eucalyptus woodlands. Halosarcia (Samphire), Sporobolus (couch) grasslands and mangroves occur on the marine alluvial flats and river deltas (Van Vreeswyk et al. 2004).

2 Regions and subregions as defined by the Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) Version 6.1.



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The Chichester subregion has undulating Archaean granite and basalt plains including significant areas of basaltic ranges. Plains support a shrub steppe characterised by Acacia pyrifolia and Acacia inaequilatera over Triodia pungens hummock grasslands, while Eucalyptus tree steppes occur on the ranges and drainage lines (Van Vreeswyk et al. 2004).

4.7.1.2 Local Flora and Vegetation The vegetation of the Port B development area has been mapped on various scales by Beard (1975), NLWRA (2002) and Van Vreeswyk et al (2004). The condition survey of rangelands across the Pilbara by Van Vreeswyk et al (2004) provides the most comprehensive information for the Port B development area.

Several historical botanical surveys of the Cape Lambert Operations have shown the area to contain numerous hummock and tussock grass species such as Triodia and Eragostis. Low to medium shrub species recorded include Senna, Halosarcia and Ptilotus, while mid to high shrubs were characterised by a large number of Acacia species. Some trees have been recorded in these surveys, including Hakea lorea, Corymbia hamersleyana, Melaleuca argentea and two Eucaplytus species (Pilbara Iron, 2004 - 2006).

Biota has completed two flora surveys scheduled specifically for the Port B development area. The survey covered 602 ha including proposed disturbance areas, adjacent areas and reference areas to establish the wider distribution of rare species

Biota (2007a) identified eight broad habitat types supporting nine vegetation types within the survey area:

Flat Coastal Plain

Primary Dunes

Secondary Dunes

Dune Blowouts

Rocky hills and Outcrops in Flat Coastal Plain

Low-lying, Saline Drainage Areas

Saline Interzone Areas between low lying, saline drainage areas and flat coastal plain

Drainage Basin in flat coastal plain.

A total of 157 taxa of native vascular flora from 87 genera belonging to 39 families were recorded from the surveyed area in 2007. The total number of vascular flora species present was considered relatively low for the study area, as very few ephemeral flora species were recorded during the survey due to a lack of significant rainfall in the six to seven months prior to the survey.

Four species of introduced flora (from four genera and three families) were also recorded in the study area during the 2007 survey.



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4.7.1.3 Significant Flora and Vegetation The 2007 and 2008 flora surveys confirm the findings of historical surveys at Cape Lambert which found no declared rare or priority flora. No threatened ecological communities were recorded from within the boundaries of the area surveyed by Biota in 2007 (Biota 2007a). No threatened ecological communities are expected to occur in the study area as none are known to occur in the Roebourne subregion of the Pilbara bioregion.

4.7.2 Fauna

4.7.2.1 Local Fauna Fauna surveys for the Port B development were undertaken in October 2007 and March 2008 by Biota. Results from the 2007 survey are summarised below (Biota, 2007 b).

Herpetofauna - Thirty reptile species were recorded during the fauna survey. This comprised 11 skinks, four dragons, three goanna, four geckos, three pygopids and five front-fanged snakes.

Avifauna - A total of 43 avifauna species were recorded during the survey. This total comprised 21 families and included 24 non-passerine and 19 passerine species.

Mammals - Eleven mammal species were recorded during the fauna survey, including four dasyurids, two macropods, two native and one introduced rodent, dog and goat.

4.7.2.2 Terrestrial Fauna of Conservation Significance The fauna surveys undertaken by Biota in October 2007 (and 2008) yielded the following results in relation to fauna of conservation significance (Biota, 2007b):

Herpetofauna - Of the species recorded in the study area none are considered to be of conservation concern. The Western Australian Museum records of Lerista nevinae are currently restricted to the broad Cape Lambert – Point Samson dune area. All marine turtles are considered Schedule 1 under the Wildlife Conservation Act (1950-1979) and are protected under the EPBC Act (1999).

Avifauna - Of the species recorded around the Port B development are, only two are considered to be of conservation significance, the Rainbow bee-eater (Merops ornatus) - migratory under the EPBC Act (1999) and the Star Finch (western) Neochmia ruficauda subclarescens- Priority 4 under the Wildlife Conservation Act (1950-1979) (WA). Neither are restricted to the Cape Lambert area.

Mammals - No mammal species of conservation significance were recorded during the fauna survey. Results from Anabat bat call recording is pending. It is possible that the Priority 1, little north-western mastiff bat (Mormopterus loriae cobourgiana) may occur in the area.

A search of the DEC Species Profile and Threats Database resulted in the identification of a number of priority fauna species with the potential to occur within 50 km of Cape Lambert (Table 2).



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4.7.2.3 Significant fauna Table 2 Threatened and Priority Fauna Occurring within 50 km of Cape Lambert

Species Common Name

Location Recorded Occurrence/ Notes

Description

Schedule 1 - Fauna that is rare or is likely to become extinct Lagostrophus fasciatus fasciatus

Banded hare-wallaby

Cossack An historical record of sighting

This small macropod occurs in low shrubland and extant populations occur on Bernier and Dorre islands in Shark Bay. An attempted reintroduction to Peron Peninsula showed that the species is highly vulnerable to predation from cats as well as foxes.

Liasis olivaceus barroni

Pilbara olive python

Burrup Peninsula

- The Pilbara Olive Python grows up to six metres long and is restricted to ranges within the Pilbara Region and some islands off the coast of Western Australia.

Priority One: Taxa with few, poorly known populations on threatened lands Mormopterus loriae cobourgiana

Little north-western mastiff bat

Cowrie Cove Calls recorded but not sighted

This species occurs along the north-west coast and is known to roost in mangroves.

Lerista quadrivincula

Mt Welcome - This skink is known from only one locality on the Maitland River south-east of Karratha Homestead.

Priority Four: Taxa in need of monitoring Pseudomys chapmani

Western pebble-mound mouse (Ngadji)

Karratha, Burrup Peninsula, Mt Anketel, Zebra Hill

Definite signs Definite signs - -

This species is well-known for the characteristic pebble-mounds which it constructs over underground burrow systems. These mounds are most common on spurs and lower slopes of rocky hills.

Numenius madagascariensis

Eastern curlew Nichol Bay - This species is a migratory visitor and has been observed on reef flats and sandy beaches along the West Australian coast and in coastal estuaries.

Phaps histrionica

Flock bronzewing

Nichol River, Warambie

- -

This species is gregarious and occurs in treeless or sparsely wooded grassy plains within reach of open water.

*Results obtained from the Department of Environment and Conservation Species Profile and Threats Database (DEC 2007)

4.7.2.4 Marine Fauna of Conservation Interest. Within the Port B development area there are characteristic marine fauna that utilise one or more of the habitats that occur in the intertidal, nearshore subtidal and offshore subtidal zones.

At least four species of sea turtle nest in the Cape Lambert region: another two species are present as either migratory or foraging species (Table 3) (Guinea 2008). Two species (flatbacks and hawksbills) are the main nesting species on Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach in the Cape Lambert lease (Figure 4). Nesting season for turtles in this region starts in October and continues through to March with a maximum number of nesting turtles coming ashore in November and December (Norman et al. 1994;



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Prince 1994a; Blamires et al. 2003). The first hatched nests appear in December and continue through March with a peak of hatching in January and February (Salinovich 2006; 2007).

Preliminary studies indicate that Bells Beach with a length of 600 m has about 150 nests laid each season by flatback sea turtles. Cooling Water Beach supports far fewer yet still a significant number of nests (Guinea 2008).

Table 3 Marine Turtles in the Cape Lambert Region

Species Federal Status

(EPBC Act)

Status in WA (Wildlife

Conservation Act)

Presence at Cape Lambert

Nesting Foraging Migrating

Flatback (Natator depressus) Marine Vulnerable

Rare

Green (Chelonia mydas) Marine Vulnerable

Rare

Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata)

Marine Vulnerable

Rare

Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) Marine Endangered

Rare

Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea)

Marine Critically Endangered

Rare -

Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea)

Marine Endangered

Rare -

Marine mammals recorded around Cape Lambert include humpback and false killer whales, bottlenose, Indo-Pacific hump-backed and Risso’s dolphins. Humpback whales migrate north between mid–late July, with the southern journey starting in late August and extending into early September. Cows with calves can be up to four weeks behind on the southern journey.

The absence of extensive seagrass beds in the area render it unlikely that resident dugongs feed in the region, although they may pass through the region and have been sighted in Hamersley Shoals and Flying Foam passage in the adjacent Dampier Archipelago.

4.8 Land Tenure The proposed development lies primarily within the Robe River Industrial lease, which is zoned as General Industrial. Minor infrastructure tenure may be required for some project components.

4.9 Surrounding Land Uses The town of Wickham lies 14 km to the south of the Cape Lambert operation and houses approximately 2100 people, who are predominantly Pilbara Iron employees and their families. Wickham was built by Robe River Iron Associates in 1970, initially as a company run town; however, it is now open to new residents.



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Tourist villages of Point Samson (4 km to the south-east) and Cossack (8 km to the south-east) are situated near Cape Lambert. Other than the existing construction village at Cape Lambert, Point Samson is the closest residential area to the port activities. Point Samson includes a small residential population, caravan park, restaurants and accommodation facilities, local historical features, small sandy beaches, a marina and boat launching facilities. Some small commercial fishing is based out of Point Samson. Cossack is an historic site, with tourist, accommodation and boat launching facilities.

Apart from the existing Cape Lambert port, there is no large industry in the area.

4.10 Heritage

4.10.1 Aboriginal Heritage Cape Lambert is located within the Ngarluma Native Title Determination area with some areas where native title is extinguished and some where native title exists. Pilbara Iron will engage Ngarluma people through the Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation in Aboriginal heritage surveys over the land. Pilbara Iron is in the process of developing a Native Title Agreement with the Ngarluma group. Furthermore, Pilbara Iron is in the process of developing a Heritage Protocol with Ngarluma which establishes a process for conducting archaeological and ethnographic surveys. Such surveys will be undertaken over the land to be impacted by the proposed gas pipeline relocation in areas which have not previously been surveyed or heavily disturbed by past development activities.

Forty six known Aboriginal heritage sites are located close to or within leases managed by Pilbara Iron within the Wickham and Cape Lambert area; however, some areas have not been subject to intensive survey. Intensive surveys are planned to be undertaken so additional sites may consequently be identified within the development area and surrounds. These sites have been recorded during a variety of heritage surveys in response to proposed development activities. The nature of the heritage sites comprise: shell middens within the coastal sand dunes and adjacent to the tidal mudflats; several stone quarries and numerous petroglyphs (rock art) sites within the rocky outcrops and ridges; and flaked stone artefact scatters throughout the area. A number of these sites are located and demarcated within the area proposed for development. Any disturbance will be minimised and subject to approval under Section 18 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act, 1972 (WA).

4.10.2 European Heritage There are few European heritage sites near Cape Lambert, the most significant being the town of Cossack (refer Section 4.9). Cossack (originally named Tien Tsin), was originally settled in 1863 and later became the port for the growing townsite of Roebourne. The town formed a base for the local pearling industry from 1866 to the 1890s. The town was eventually abandoned in the 1950s. Recently, the Heritage Council of WA assumed management of Cossack.



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5. Environmental Issues and Management 5.1 Principles of Environmental Protection In the scoping phase of this assessment of the environmental impacts associated with the Port B development consideration has been given to the principles contained in the EPA Position Statement No. 7 (Principles of Environmental Protection (EPA, 2004a)). How these principles will be considered with respect to the Port B development is summarised below in Table 4.

Table 4 Principles of Environmental Protection Principle Consideration

1. The precautionary principle Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation. In application of this precautionary principle, decisions should be guided by: (a) careful evaluation to avoid, where practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment; and (b) an assessment of the risk – weighted consequences of various options.

Investigations and specialist studies will be carried out to provide sufficient information to address potential environmental impacts. The environmental risks associated with the selected project option will be assessed.

2. The principle of intergenerational equity The present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment is maintained and enhanced for the benefit of future generations.

Detailed flora and fauna studies will be carried out in the development area and surrounds to ensure that the proposed development complements Pilbara Iron’s Sustainable Development Framework.

3. The principle of the conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity Conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity should be a fundamental consideration.

Baseline studies will be undertaken at the site to assess the environmental value of areas which could be impacted by operations and management plans will be implemented as required

4. Principles relating to improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms (a) Environmental factors should be included in the valuation of assets and services. (b) The polluter pays principles – those who generate pollution and waste should bear the cost of containment, avoidance and abatement. (c) The users of goods and services should pay prices based on the full life cycle costs of providing goods and services, including the use of natural resources and assets and the ultimate disposal of any waste. (d) Environmental goals, having been established, should be pursued in the most cost effective way, by establishing incentive structure, including market mechanisms, which enable those best placed to maximise benefits and/or minimise costs to develop their own solution and responses to environmental problems.

The full life cycle costs of the port operation, including the decommissioning and closure will be costed for internal purposes at various stages of the project life. Pilbara Iron recognises the polluter pays principle, and will design the development to ensure that pollution type impacts are minimised.

5. The principle of waste minimisation All reasonable and practicable measures should be taken to minimise the generation of waste and its discharge into the environment.

To be addressed in detail in the PER and Management Plans. The preferred management options are to avoid, reduce, reuse, recycle and recover waste.

These principles will be considered in more detail in the PER document.



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5.2 Environmental Management The key environmental factors considered relevant to the Port B development are:

dust

noise

light

water resources

stormwater management

climate change

vegetation and flora

fauna

marine water quality

dredging and spoil disposal

aboriginal heritage

visual amenity/landscape character.

The following minor environmental factors associated with the Port B development will also be considered within the PER:

landforms and soils

traffic

hydrology

hydrogeology

rehabilitation and decommissioning/closure

waste.

Table 5 presents these environmental factors, the EPA’s objectives, the potential impacts, additional investigations required, possible management strategies and applicable standards and guidelines. This information will be further developed in the PER.

In accordance with the EPBC Regulations, the following will be presented in the PER:

descriptions of the relevant impacts of the action

detailed assessment of the nature and extent of the likely short term and long term relevant impacts

whether the impacts are likely to be unknown, unpredictable or irreversible

analysis of the significance of the relevant impacts

any technical data or information used or needed to make a detailed assessment of the impacts.



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In addition, the possible safeguards and mitigation measures will be presented, including:

a description and an assessment of the effectiveness of mitigation measures

broad cost estimates for mitigation measures

the name of the agency responsible for endorsing or approving each mitigation measure or monitoring program

a consolidation of mitigation measures proposed to be undertaken to prevent, minimise or compensate for relevant impacts of the action, including mitigation measures proposed to be taken.



Table 5 Key Environmental Factors and Principles for Assessment

Environmental Factor

Relevant Area EPA Objective Potential Impacts Additional Investigations Possible Management Applicable Standards, Guidelines and Policies

Pollution Management

Air Quality – Particulate dust emissions during construction and operations

Within the vicinity of the operations.

To ensure that emissions do not adversely affect environmental values or the health, welfare and amenity of peoples and land uses by meeting statutory requirements and acceptable standards.

Increased dust levels at Point Samson and Wickham.

Visual amenity may be adversely affected. Deposition of dust on surrounding

vegetation may have adverse impacts to vegetation health.

Identify potential sources of dust and management measures to be implemented. Sources of dust could include stockpiles, conveyors.

Model cumulative dust levels at sensitive receptors. Identify and assess all community health and

environmental risks associated with the exposure to individual and combined air pollution emissions from the Port B development.

Implementation of dust suppression techniques, road watering and enclosed areas where dust emissions are significant.

EPA Guidance Statement No. 18 Prevention of Air Quality Impacts from Land Development Sites (EPA 2000a).

.

Noise Within the vicinity of the operations.

To protect the amenity of nearby residents from noise emissions resulting from activities associated with the proposal by ensuring that noise levels meet statutory requirements and acceptable standards.

Noise emitted during construction and operation of the Port B development may impact on local residents at Point Samson and fauna.

Rail and transport noise impacts on residents of Wickham and Point Samson and fauna.

Determine baseline/background ambient noise levels, meteorological characteristics affecting dispersion and other sources of noise in the vicinity of the Project.

Identify and characterise all significant emissions, from all sources and their method of release into the environment e.g. processing, vehicles.

Update existing noise model to incorporate effects of the proposed Port B development.

Undertake a study on the effects of pile driving for wharf and jetty construction on acoustic noise.

Incorporate noise control requirements into design criteria.

Incorporate noise performance criteria into purchasing requirements for relevant, equipment and machinery.

Incorporate appropriate shielding.

EPA Draft Guidance Statement No. 8: Environmental Noise (EPA 2007b).

Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

Draft Statement of Planning Policy (Road and Rail) (WAPC 2005).

Light Spill Whole project area, with special reference to Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach.

To avoid or manage potential impacts from light overspill and comply with acceptable standards.

Light spill has the potential to affect local fauna, in particular nesting and hatching turtles on Bells Beach and the Cooling Water Beach.

Establish the baseline light environment. Model the light spill at the proposed expansion facilities. Predict the cumulative light spill incorporating the effects

of the Port B development. Outline possible sources of light spill over water.

Incorporate light spill control requirements into design criteria.

Incorporate light spill performance criteria into purchasing requirements for relevant, equipment and machinery.

Minimise artificial light use. Incorporate shielding or optimise light types.

Climate Change, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Energy Use

Whole Port B development area and beyond.

To minimise emissions to levels as low as practicable on an on-going basis.

Increased greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, contributing to global warming effects.

Sea level rises may have impacts on the Pilbara coastline and future distributions of key habitat areas such as mangroves and their proximity to proposed infrastructure.

Determine potential greenhouse gas emissions from the proposed options in line with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO) standards.

Identify and investigate management measures that can be implemented in the design, construction and operational phases of the Port B development to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Investigate the predicted implications of climate change for the Pilbara coast and determine the environmental implications of changes in sea level.

Minimise greenhouse gas emissions in design through equipment selection.

EPA Guidance Statement No. 12: Minimising Greenhouse Gas Emissions (EPA 2002a).

AGO Factors and Methods Workbook, December 2006 (AGO 2006).

2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (IPCC 2006).

Dredging and Spoil Disposal

Coastal, nearshore and offshore zones influenced by the Port B development.

To maintain the integrity, ecological functions and environmental values of the seabed and coast.

Impacts on marine water quality throughout the dredging construction period.

Impacts to marine flora and fauna (including BPPH) as a result of increased turbidity and sedimentation due to marine construction activities and dredging and spoil disposal.

Impacts to marine environment due to potential contaminated spoil.

Impacts to local environment associated with the potential disposal of dredge spoil on land if incorporated into final scope.

Impacts on marine fauna due to increases in vessel movements

Undertake an intertidal and nearshore subtidal survey. Undertake a baseline water quality assessment. Undertake a marine sediment dispersion study. PER will include the results of dredge plume modelling

to inform predictions of the extent, severity and persistence of potential impacts on key ecological attributes.

Prepare a Dredge and Spoil Disposal Management Plan (DSDMP). The DSDMP will include management strategies to reduce impacts to marine macro fauna due to increased vessel movement during dredging activities.

Develop and undertake a Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) to determine suitability and characteristics of dredge spoil.

Develop and undertake an additional sediment (SAP) for any proposed new spoil grounds

Investigate use of turtle exclusion devices on dredge vessels.

Implementation of DSDMP. Monitoring and management program for water

quality and coral health. Use flexible dredging practices to reduce turbidity in

sensitive areas. Drainage and sedimentation management of any

potential on land spoil disposal area. A monitoring and management program for any

marine discharge of return or leached water. Ensure TBT contaminated material is identified in

the Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) and dealt with according to National Ocean Disposal Guidelines for Dredged Material (NODGDM 2002).

ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000. Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality.

EPA Guidance Statement No. 29: Benthic Primary Producer Habitat Protection for Western Australia’s Marine Environment (EPA 2004b).

EPA Guidance Statement No. 1: Guidance Statement for protection of tropical arid zone mangroves along the Pilbara coastline (EPA 2001)

National Ocean Disposal Guidelines for Dredged Material (NODGDM 2002)

Ballast Water Standards (AQIS 2001)

Waste* Whole Port B development area.

Ensure that waste is contained and isolated from ground and surface

Inappropriate storage and management of waste may lead to contamination of soils and/or ground or surface water bodies

Identify appropriate locations and methodology for waste disposal.

Review historical contaminated sites work associated

Estimate the types, volumes, risks and potential impacts of hazardous materials to be stored and handled on site.

EPA Position Statement No. 7. Principles of Environmental Protection (EPA 2004a).





water surrounds and treatment or collection does not result in long-term impacts on the surrounding environment.

through spills. with the existing landfill. Ensure appropriate site is selected for relocated landfill.

Employ Reduce, Reuse, Recycle principles to waste management.

Ensure all hazardous materials on-site are registered on the Pilbara Iron hazardous materials database and permitted for use.

Disposal of wastes will be at approved facilities and in accordance with established operational procedures.

Biophysical Vegetation Communities

In the Pilbara bioregion, with emphasis on the Port B development area.

To maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora at species and ecosystem levels through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts and improvement in knowledge.

Approximately 600 ha is required to be cleared for the construction of the Port B development.

Other potential impacts include vegetation decline/loss due to off-road vehicle impacts, erosion, smothering of vegetation with dust, increased risk of fire and introduction of weeds and diseases.

No threatened ecological communities have been found in surveys of the Port B development area to date.

A systematic flora survey and vegetation mapping of the Port B development area was conducted during October 2007 and a follow-up seasonal flora survey was conducted in March 2008. The findings of this work will be set in a regional context.

Clearing of vegetation will be minimised. Maintain ground and surface water availability for

vegetation communities. Implement a weed management programme and

hygiene procedures. Implement an environmental awareness training

programme.

EPA Position Statement No. 2: Environmental Protection of Native Vegetation in Western Australia (EPA 2000b).

EPA Position Statement No. 3: Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA 2002b).

EPA Guidance Statement No. 51: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004c).

Flora In the Pilbara bioregion, with emphasis on the Port B development area.

To maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora at species and ecosystem levels through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts and improvement in knowledge.

Approximately 600 ha is required to be cleared for the construction of the Port B development.

Significant flora species could potentially be impacted by the Port B development if they are found to exist within the development area. No Declared Rare or Priority flora species have been identified in surveys of the Port B development area to date.

A systematic flora survey and vegetation mapping of the Port B development area was conducted during October 2007 which identified no DRF or Priority flora species.

A follow-up seasonal flora survey was conducted in March 2008.

The findings of this work will be set in a regional context.

Relocate facilities to avoid disturbance of DRF, Priority flora, and other flora species of particular conservation significance.

Fence off individual significant species to avoid disturbance during construction.

Obtain the required approvals for disturbing and/or removing significant species where disturbance is unavoidable.

Implement an environmental awareness training programme.

Weed management strategies Use of local provenance seed for rehabilitation

activities.

EPA Position Statement No. 2: Environmental Protection of Native Vegetation in Western Australia (EPA 2000b).

EPA Position Statement No. 3: Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection (EPA 2002b).

EPA Guidance Statement No. 51: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004c).

Fauna In the Pilbara bioregion, with emphasis on the Port B development area.

To maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of fauna at species and ecosystem levels through the avoidance or management of adverse impacts and improvement in knowledge.

About 600 ha is required to be cleared for the Port B development.

If present in the Port B development area, significant species may be impacted through habitat loss, individual animal deaths, isolation/fragmentation of populations or changes to ground and surface water availability.

A systematic fauna survey of the Port B development area was conducted during October 2007 which identified no specially protected species.

A follow-up seasonal fauna survey was conducted in March 2008.

A seven day survey of local beaches and some islands was conducted during January 2008 to complement ongoing marine turtle monitoring at Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach.

The findings of this work will be set in a regional context.

Minimise disturbance to any significant fauna. If significant fauna habitats are present, consider

relocating non-essential infrastructure and revise Project layout.

Implement an environmental awareness training programme.

Report death or injury of significant fauna to the Department of Environment and Conservation.

EPA Guidance Statement No. 56: Terrestrial fauna surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004d).

Landforms and Soils*

In the Pilbara bioregion, with emphasis on the Port B development area.

To maintain the integrity, ecological functions and environmental values of the soil and landform.

About 600 ha is required to be cleared for the Port B development.

Significant earthworks will be required within the project area.

Identify and map soil and landform features. Review existing data with respect to Acid Sulphate Soils

(ASS). Map potential high/moderate ASS risk areas. Identify any significant soil and landform features /

issues for consideration in the facility design.

Use ASS knowledge to influence project design and construction.

Modify project design and construction to minimise impacts on significant soils or landforms.

Western Australian Planning Commission Planning Bulletin BO, 64: Acid Sulphate Soils (WAPC 2003).

Hydrology (Surface Water and Drainage)*

Watercourses and drainage lines within the Port B development area.

To maintain the quantity of water so that existing and potential environmental values, including ecosystem maintenance are protected.

The Project may impact on ephemeral drainage lines and areas subject to occasional inundation.

Impacts may include alteration of natural flow, increased erosion and sediment deposition.

Update knowledge of site surface hydrology, including watercourses, catchment areas, significance water bodies and sheet-flows.

All facilities will be located away from significant seasonal water bodies.

Where necessary, culverts, diversion drains and erosion protection structures will be installed to reinstate natural flow paths, avoid ponding upgradient of structures and minimise disruption.

Water and Rivers Commission (2000). Environmental Water Provisions Policy for Western Australia: Statewide Policy No. 5.

Stormwater Drainage lines within the Port

To maintain the quantity of water so that existing

Potential offsite discharge of stormwater Alteration of natural flows, increased

Update knowledge of locations and design of drainage structures, bridges and culverts

Where necessary, culverts, diversion drains and erosion protection structures will be installed to

Water and Rivers Commission (2000). Environmental Water





B development area.

and potential environmental values, including ecosystem maintenance are protected, To maintain the quantity of water so that existing and potential environmental values, including ecosystem maintenance are protected.

erosion and sediment deposition Undertake a flood study reinstate natural flow paths, avoid ponding upgradient of structures and minimise disruption.

Minimising offfsite discharges of stormwater.

Provisions Policy for Western Australia: Statewide Policy No. 5.


Hydrogeology* Whole Port B development area.


Construction and earthworks have the potential to impact local hydrogeology.

A Desktop study will be undertaken to describe the existing hydrogeological formations and the nature of any local aquifers.

Constructed landforms will be designed to have minimal impact on local hydrogeology.


Marine Water Quality

Coastal, nearshore and offshore zones influenced by the Port B development.

To help manage and protect the marine environment from the effects of waste inputs and pollution (DoE 2006).

Impacts to marine flora and fauna (including BPPH) as a result of increased turbidity and/or sedimentation due to dredging, marine construction activities and spoil disposal activities.

Potential change to Pilbara Water Quality EQOs and levels of ecological protection.

Undertake a baseline water quality assessment. Develop thresholds for sensitive marine receptors to

predict impact and influence from dredge plume. The PER will include an assessment to predict and

spatially-define the degree of conformity and non-conformity of the proposal with the current spatial allocation of Environmental Quality Objectives (EQOs) and associated levels of ecological protection. This process of assessment will be informed by the results of the recent water quality monitoring programme from CLU80.

Consider response and trigger levels for turbidity for dredge management

Implementation of DSDMP. Monitoring and management program for water

quality. Develop a response plan outlining actions to be

undertaken in the event of an exceedance of a water quality threshold in the DSDMP.


Pilbara Coastal Water Quality Consultation Outcomes (DoE, 2006)

State Water Quality Management Strategy Document No. 6

Ballast Water Standards (AQIS 2001)

Water use and supply

Whole Port B development area.


Water Corporation’s water supply source may be impacted if water abstraction (the Millstream aquifer) is unsustainable following the depletion of available water from Harding Dam.

Impacts on environmental values associated with the Millstream aquifer

Estimate water use requirements and a water use efficiency target.

Prepare water management plan. Develop water supply contingencies. Review of sustainability of existing water supplies

Implement water conservation measures to minimise water requirements.

Report on status of a separate study on options for alternative water supply sources to augment existing water scheme.


Social Surrounds Aboriginal Heritage


To ensure that changes to the biophysical environment do not adversely affect historical and cultural associations and comply with relevant heritage legislation.

Sites of Aboriginal heritage significance could potentially be impacted by the Port B development and by the workforce.

Indirect impacts on Aboriginal heritage sites arising from dust

Identify Aboriginal cultural and heritage sites of significance through archaeological and ethnographic surveys of the Port B development area and through consultation with local Aboriginal groups.

Literature review of dust impacts on heritage sites

Pilbara Iron will consult with Aboriginal groups with an interest in the area on the management of Aboriginal heritage sites within the Port B development area.

Pilbara Iron will obtain Section 18 clearance under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, 1972 if any sites cannot be avoided.

EPA Guidance Statement No. 41: Assessment of Aboriginal Heritage (EPA 2004e).

Visual Amenity/ Landscape Character


To ensure that aesthetic values are considered and measures are adopted to reduce visual impacts on the landscape to as low as reasonably practicable.

The Port B development may have an impact on existing visual amenity and landscape values.

Describe the visual baseline of the development area. Describe the landscape character baseline of the

development area.

Minimise adverse impacts to visual amenity in the design of stockyards, relocation of facilities and minimising vegetation clearing.

Utilise natural terrain to assist screen the development.

Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LI & IEMA 2002).

Recreation and Public Access

Bells Beach and Boat Beach.

To ensure that existing and planned recreational uses are not compromised.

The Port B development may affect the recreational values of local beaches (Bells Beach and Boat Beach) both located to the west of the development.

Determine how, if at all, the Port B development compromises recreational values e.g. from access restrictions, dust, noise, visual amenity.

Identify and consult with key stakeholders associated with recreational use of these areas.

Minimise adverse impacts to recreation values from the Port B development through sound environmental management practices and communication with relevant stakeholders during the construction and operational phases of the project.

Traffic* Whole Port B development area and local traffic areas.

To ensure that existing and planned recreational uses are not compromised.

The Port B development may effect site traffic volumes during construction and operation.

Desktop review of traffic factors including volumes, road network condition, crash history and capacity will be undertaken.

Estimation of traffic increases as a result of the Port B development

Traffic management plan to be developed or existing Cape Lambert Traffic Management Plan updated.

Review of speed limits and number of vehicles used on site.

Transport Assessment guidelines for Developments (WAPC 2006).





Other Rehabilitation, Decommissioning and Closure*


To ensure, as far as practicable, that rehabilitation achieves a stable and functioning landform that is consistent with the surrounding landscape and other environmental values.

Poor rehabilitation and decommissioning may result in long-term adverse impacts on flora, fauna, soil and water quality, visual amenity and economic and social impacts.

Poor closure planning may result in insufficient allocation of funds/resources for closure, particularly in the event of unforeseen closure.

Preparation of a preliminary rehabilitation/closure plan for the Cape Lambert operation, incorporating the Port B development, for submission with the PER. This would address such issues as:

rehabilitation outcomes integration of planning and environmental issues revegetation strategies.

Review and update the Conceptual Closure Plan at regular intervals.

Include in the plan the accounting methods to be used for managing financial closure provisions.

Carry out progressive rehabilitation. Conduct research and development into

rehabilitation techniques to improve the quality of rehabilitation.

Mine Closure and Completion (DOITR 2006).

* Minor Environmental Factors



An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) will be developed and implemented for the construction and operation of the Port B development. Framework EMPs (Table 6) for key environmental factors will be provided as technical appendices of the PER document.

Table 6 Framework Environmental Management Plan Format

Framework Environmental Management Plan

Management Issues

Outlines specific management issues relevant to the environmental factor

Objective Describes the objective of the Framework EMP Performance Indicators

Lists key internal or external performance indicators relevant to the environmental factor

Management Strategies

Lists management strategies relevant to the environmental factor

Monitoring Outlines the monitoring program required for the environmental factor Auditing Outlines provisions for independent environmental auditing Reporting Outlines the reporting program required for the environmental factor.

The framework EMPs will incorporate the framework for continuing management, mitigation and monitoring programs for the relevant impacts of the action.



6. Scope of Work for Public Environmental Review A scope of works for each of the key factors as identified in Section 5 is provided below.

6.1 Air Quality (Dust)

6.1.1 Purpose Predict particulate (PM10 and TSP) levels due to the Port B development and ensure that levels meet acceptable standards.

6.1.2 Scope Describe local meteorology, including wind speed and direction, temperature, humidity, rainfall and

evaporation for the immediate Port B development area.

Identify and apply applicable air quality criteria and standards to Cape Lambert giving reference to national standards, existing environmental approvals and commitments.

Review findings of air quality studies previously conducted within the area and assess relevance for inclusion into the cumulative impacts modelling.

Identify key environmental and human residential receptors (including the accommodation camp).

Determine sources and concentrations of potential particulate emissions – from proposed expansion and cumulative emissions with all other operations in the regions. Emissions estimates will be based on direct measurement and National Pollution Inventory estimation techniques.

Review and update existing particulate (PM10 and TSP only) model for the port operations, based on a review of current onsite dust management strategies and dispersion modelling of TSP and PM10 using AUSPLUME to determine scale and extent.

Levels will be described in the form of maximum concentrations, 99 percentiles and averages. Results presented in tabular form and through contour maps.

Model will be ground-truthed against ambient dust monitoring data.

Investigate and assess potential impacts of dust on biota and natural ecosystems.

If results approach or exceed criteria, investigate measures to reduce impact.

Consider and propose dust reduction methods including operational, procedural and engineering solutions.

6.2 Noise

6.2.1 Purpose Quantify noise levels associated with the Port B development and ensure that statutory requirements and acceptable standards are met for nearby receptors and investigate potential impacts of land and marine noise on marine wildlife including nesting turtles.



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6.2.2 Scope Determine baseline/background ambient noise levels and meteorological characteristics of the Cape

Lambert area.

Measure marine noise parameters during the construction phase (pile driving) at representative distances along the existing wharf.

Identify the sources of noise associated with the key construction activities (mainly pile driving) and operations phases of the Port B development.

Update the existing environmental noise model for the current Cape Lambert 85 Mtpa upgrade to include sources from the proposed Port B activities including rail transport and compare the impacts to assigned noise criteria.

Undertake a combined noise impact assessment on the towns of Wickham and Point Samson based on modelling results.

Undertake assessment of noise impacts on local recreational areas including the Point Samson area and Boat Beach/Port Walcott Yacht Club, as well as turtle nesting areas at Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach based on modelling results.

Undertake a literature review to assess the impacts of noise on marine wildlife.

If results of impact assessments approach or exceed criteria, investigate and present management measures to reduce and control impacts.

Develop noise reduction methods, including operational, procedural and engineering solutions.

Undertake a study on the effects of pile driving for wharf and jetty construction on acoustic noise in the marine environment and the potential impacts on marine wildlife, including nesting turtles. This will include an indicative spatial estimate of impact areas.

6.3 Light Spill

6.3.1 Purpose Predict the cumulative light spill resulting from the Port B development and investigate potential impacts of light spill and glow effects on nesting turtles.

6.3.2 Scope Undertake a lighting impact assessment for the Port B development, incorporating the following key tasks:

Establish the parameters of the existing environment in light terms.

Model the proposed expansion facilities, based on similar facilities at Dampier Port and the drawings of the proposed design using the AGI32 computer simulation.

Predict the cumulative light spill and glow effects on Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach from approved developments in the Cape Lambert area.

Identify potential management strategies to reduce the quantity and impacts of light spill.



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Apply modelling results and implementation of actions associated with the darkness strategy of the Marine Turtle Management Plan required under Ministerial Statement 743.

Consult with the DEC and present in the PER an adaptive management framework for marine turtle management, including measurable targets and triggers and management actions to avoid significant impacts from light spill/glow, noise, dredging and poor water quality.

Investigate other light sources which have the potential for light spill over water and develop possible management strategies to control impacts that are anticipated.

6.4 Climate Change

6.4.1 Purpose Estimate greenhouse gas emissions and evaluate the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO) Standards and outline the predicted implications of climate change for the Pilbara coastline.

Scope

Determine the operational boundary of the development to define the scope of direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions.

Determine potential greenhouse gas emissions in line with standards covered by the IPCC and the AGO.

Identify and investigate management measures that can be implemented in the design, construction and operational phases of the Port B development to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve overall energy efficiency of the operations.

Investigate the implications of climate change for the Pilbara coastline and address the environmental implications of changes in sea level.

6.5 Vegetation and Flora

6.5.1 Purpose Complete detailed baseline studies to identify existing vegetation and flora, including any Declared Rare Flora (DRF), Priority flora and vegetation of conservation significance in the Port B development area.

6.5.2 Scope Flora and vegetation work will comprise a two-phase survey effort. The initial survey was completed in October 2007 and a follow-up seasonal survey was undertaken in March 2008, following the wet season. The flora surveys will meet the requirements of EPA Guidance Statement No. 51 (Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia) (EPA, 2004c). The scope of flora surveys is detailed as follows:

Detailed flora recording quadrats representing main vegetation types will be established to provide quantitative data for the Port B development area and surrounds.



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Specimens of all flora species will be collected from each quadrat to enable accurate species-level identifications using the resources of the WA Herbarium and relevant specialist taxonomists, and provide important voucher specimens.

Vegetation types will be identified and mapping notes will be taken for these areas while traversing between quadrats.

A desktop analysis will be made of vegetation types recorded within the study area to set them in a regional context , including outlining the extent and security of such vegetation types in any known regional reserves.

Develop broad weed management strategies for the Port B development area.

Preliminary results from the surveys indicate that:

No Threatened Ecological Communities occur within the study area.

The only vegetation type likely to be considered to be of elevated significance were the samphire communities – these have been identified in the Pilbara Biodiversity Audit due to their poor representation in conservation reserves rather than being rare.

No species of Declared Rare flora were recorded and none are expected to occur.

No species of Priority flora were recorded; some species may occur in the area on the basis of distribution, but none are considered likely.

6.6 Fauna

6.6.1 Sea Turtles

6.6.1.1 Purpose Complete baseline studies to identify the contextual usage of Bells Beach and Cooling Water Beach as turtle nesting areas, on a local and regional scale.

6.6.1.2 Scope Marine turtles frequent some beaches adjoining the study area. The proposed scope of work for this factor includes:

Desktop reviews of the existing data available from local community groups and DEC regional long-term projects to place the site into broader context.

Consultation and liaison with DEC and other stakeholders to clarify the expected level of investigation in regards to marine turtles.

Consultation with the DEC regarding the relative importance of Cape Lambert mainland turtle nesting beaches.

Incorporation of findings into the Marine Turtle Management Plan being prepared for the existing Cape Lambert Operation.

Review of the beach sites adjoining the study as well as key local areas (7 day study of nesting turtles on nearby islands and selected other local beaches).



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Preparation of a summary assessment report, consolidating the outcomes of consultation, surveys, research and other data collected during earlier parts of the scope.

6.6.2 Terrestrial

6.6.2.1 Purpose Complete baseline studies to identify existing terrestrial fauna including any Specially Protected (Threatened) Fauna and/or significant fauna habitats in the Port B development area.

6.6.2.2 Scope A two-phase baseline biological survey addressing terrestrial fauna will be conducted. The initial field survey was completed during October 2007. The seasonal survey component was completed in March 2008. The fauna surveys will meet the requirements of Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Position Statement No. 3 (Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection) (EPA, 2002b) and Guidance Statement No. 56 (Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia) (EPA, 2004d). The scope of the fauna surveys is detailed below.

Desktop reviews of previous fauna survey information, FaunaBase and the DEC Threatened Species Database, subterranean fauna issues based on habitat data (geological, hydrological and stratigraphic) and nature of the proposed development.

Identification and description of fauna habitats.

Systematic sampling of vertebrate fauna within survey area, including:

establishment of trapping grids within the Port B development area

avifauna censuses consistent with that used elsewhere in the bioregion

deployment of harp nets to trap bat species if required.

Targeted searches for :

invertebrate fauna groups of particular conservation significance

threatened species:

Lerista nevinae sp. nov. which has recently been formally described (but not listed) is known to occur around the Cape Lambert and Point Samson area

migratory wading birds.

If any of the targeted species listed above are identified within the development area, their regional occurrence and distribution will be assessed and described (where available) within the PER document or its technical appendices.

Vouchering of specimens as required.

If conservation significant fauna are identified within the project area, an assessment of impacts on these fauna will be undertaken and management strategies developed to minimise those impacts.

Preliminary results from the survey indicate:



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No reptile species recorded were considered to be of conservation concern, however, Western Australian Museum records of Lerista nevinae are currently restricted to within the Cape Lambert - Point Samson area.

Of the bird species recorded within the Port B development area only two are considered to have conservation significance:

Rainbow bee-eater – migratory under the EPBC Act (1999)

Western star finch – Priority 4 under the Wildlife Conservation Act of WA (1950–1979).

No mammal species of conservation significance were recorded during the fauna survey, however, examination of Anabat data is pending.

6.7 Dredging and Spoil Disposal Studies

6.7.1 Purpose A number of marine studies will be conducted for the Port B development to assess potential impacts to marine environment as a result of dredging and dredge spoil activities. These studies form the basis for technical reports for inclusion into the PER and will also provide a significant input for the development of the Dredge and Spoil Disposal Management Plan (DSDMP). The objectives of these studies are to:

collect baseline information on the marine environment

inform spatial definition and identify potential impacts due to dredging and spoil disposal activities

inform appraisal of the effectiveness of different management measures to avoid, minimise and mitigate potential environmental impacts

The purpose of the DSDMP will be to identify a program to monitor and manage the effects of dredging on sensitive marine habitats; manage issues relating to introduced marine pest species; identification of impact management zones with predicted impacts; management framework with measurable benthic habitat thresholds and triggers with associated management actions to ensure that impacts do not exceed those predicted.

6.7.2 Scope Sediment sampling and analysis will be undertaken through the preparation of Sampling and

Analysis Plans (SAP). The SAP proposes a program of data collection for the assessment of dredge spoil suitability for land deposition and reclamation and also offshore disposal at any proposed new spoil grounds. It incorporates procedures as described in the Contaminated Sites Regulations 2006 and associated Contaminated Sites Management Series Guidelines. It also includes sampling parameters as per the National Ocean Disposal Guidelines for Dredged Material (NODGDM 2002). Sediments will be assessed for contamination with reference to the ANZECC guidelines.

The GEMS 3D Dredge Simulation Model (DREDGE3D) will be used for simulating the specific fate of particles discharged during a dredging program. This model inputs the physical environmental data from GCOM3D, together with wave data from SWAN and meteorological data, to simulate the



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movement and deposition of suspended particles in the water body across the study area. The dredge modelling is carried out in two steps. Firstly the 3-dimensional ocean circulation of the region is predicted for the full dredge program using GCOM3D. Then the total dredge program is simulated using DREDGE3D, which simulates the behaviour of the dredge(s) based on an estimated dredge log. A detailed methodology, including configurations and setups, for the dredge models will be appended to the PER document. The dredge modelling will simulate the entire duration of the dredge program (12 months) so that all variables will be captured.

DREDGE3D predicts the fate of sediment mobilised during dredging and spoil disposal (from shipping channel, jetty, wharf, tug pens and heavy offload facility etc). The model predicts the movement and deposition of suspended particles in the water across the study area and also takes into account re-suspension of sediments. The model outputs will allow mapping of the extent of the plume. The modelling exercise will incorporate turbidity (NTU), total suspended solids (TSS) and light (PAR) data collected as part of the model verification exercise for the recent Cape Lambert upgrade dredging programme.

Data inputs for the dredge modelling are presented in detail in Appendix A, and summarised below:

Source sediment input data – particle size distribution of cores taken from the sea bed corresponding to the proposed dredging area and the depth of the proposed dredging.

Gridded wind data from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology global and regional operational forecast models for the full duration of dredging. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology high resolution atmospheric forecast model (MesoLAPS) which provides the best representation of coastal wind regimes.The seasonal and inter-annual variations in the MesoLAPS wind fields can be verified on a regional scale and do not necessarily require data at the dredging site. In this case long term model output (there are eight years of MesoLAPS data) can be analysed to compare seasonal and inter-annual variations with data from standard BoM stations in the region.

To verify the representation of local effects such as sea-breezes, katabatic flow and coastal steering it is necessary to obtain offshore meteorological data near the dredging site. However, due to the nature of the analysis a much shorter period of data is required for this form of verification (typically up to three months). For these purposes, meteorological data measurements from an automatic weather station established for long-term purposes on the existing wharf in February 2008 will be used. At least four months of the data collected from February 2008 will be available to validate the BoM MesoLAPS model output. On-site meteorological data used for model validation will not be limited to that collected prior to the submission of the PER document. Its collection will be continued and used to further validate the meteorological input data. In the event that the meteorological model does not verify well against the on-site data, the precise reason for this would need to be determined before examining either the meteorological model configuration or re-running the dredge model. This process, and if required any additional dredge modeling, will be reported during the response to submissions assessment phase.



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Bathymetric data was collected following recent Cape Lambert dredging programs. This will supplement Australian Region Digital Marine Charts (GeoSciences Australia) data and Airborne Laser Observations from Roebourne Shire Council.

Drifters have been deployed at a number of locations to record measurements of surface marine currents for short periods in June, 2006 and in April, 2008 in the vicinity of the proposed development.

Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) – measurements of waves, tides, 3D vertical currents and water temperature at two locations at the existing wharf (including deployment at the HOF for a period of time) installed in December 2007 and to be left in-situ for a minimum of 12 months. At least five months of data from December 2007 onwards will available from these ADCPs for model verification purposes. On-site oceanographic data used for model validation will not be limited to that collected prior to the submission of the PER document. Its collection will be continued and used to further validate the meteorological input data. In the event that the oceanographic model does not verify well against the on-site data, the precise reason for this would need to be determined before examining either the oceanographic model configuration or re-running the dredge model. This process, and if required any additional dredge modeling, will be reported during the response to submissions assessment phase. In addition to this recently collected data the following data will also be available to verify the model:

o Tides: In addition to the four months of ADCP data described above, Port Walcott is a standard port in the Australian tide tables provided by the National Tidal Facility and so the tidal harmonics at Cape Lambert are already well established with many years of data available.

o Currents: In addition to the four months of ADCP data described above 23 months of current is also available from an Acoustic Wave and Current Profiler (AWAC) which has been deployed at the end of the existing jetty since May 2006.

o Waves: In addition to the four months of ADCP data described above, 23 months of wave data is also available from the AWAC which has been deployed at the end of the existing jetty since May 2006.

Detailed dredge logs covering the proposed period of dredging including daily operational behaviour of each dredge.

Relevant outputs and results from model validation conducted for recent Cape Lambert dredging programs.

Each phase of numerical modelling will be supported by spatially and temporally comprehensive validation data sets.

Dredge plume modelling and data verification undertaken to the end date of the public assessment period (PER preparation and response to submissions phases) will undergo peer review by an expert independent reviewer. The review and any responses to issues raised in the review will be submitted to the EPA prior to the EPA assessment period.

All relevant data, research and studies undertaken for the Cape Lambert Upgrade Project and key ‘learnings’ will be applied where appropriate to the Port B development.



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A desktop analysis of recently collected data and reports for the Cape Lambert region specifically focusing on the relationship between sedimentation, suspended sediment concentrations, light attenuation, and coral health (that is, mortality and sub-lethal effects) will be undertaken to refine the theoretical thresholds at which deleterious effects may be felt by coral communities and other sensitive marine receptors in response to changes in local water quality conditions. These thresholds will feed into the dredge spoil dispersion model for the Port B development to delineate the potential impact zones resulting from the dredge plume. This data will be presented in the PER. The sediment plume dispersion model will correspond with the expected duration of the dredging program.

The key data to be used as input to the GEMS DREDGE3D model are provided in Appendix A. The duration of data sets for this input is sufficient for dredge plume modelling.

A summary report detailing the on-site meteorological and oceanographic data used for dredge modelling and model validation will be prepared and presented in the PER. This report will include an assessment of the adequacy of the data used.

Any relevant research or in-situ monitoring data from other dredging programs in the area will be applied where appropriate to the Port B development.

A benthic habitat map will be created for the Port B project that encompasses the area for dredging and spoil disposal. The map will be generated using a number of methods such as: high resolution aerial photography; bathymetry data; existing benthic habitat mapping and additional field work to cover predicted gaps in knowledge. Field work will include intertidal field surveys, towed camera surveys and diver observations. The benthic habitat map will cover an area that should allow the accurate identification of impact and reference monitoring locations in relation to areas predicted to be influenced by the dredge plume. However, depending on the extent of the plume’s zone of influence, identification of appropriate reference sites may be problematic and other approaches may need to be investigated in conjunction with relevant stakeholders. Benthic surveys will be conducted using standard techniques for estimation of habitat type, percent cover, diversity and distribution. Additional information will be collected on coral assemblages, which are believed to be the most sensitive benthic organisms, in this region, to disturbances associated with dredging. Some of this information will include size and growth-form composition, attributes that may allow to the prediction of the relative sensitivity of coral assemblages to sedimentation or prolonged increases in turbidity.

Quantitative sampling of these attributes will be done at several spatial scales (for example, between replicate transects in sites and between replicate sites in locations). This hierarchical system of sampling will allow the interrogation of benthic habitat maps at a range of scales from broad habitat maps to analysis of small scale variation associated with patchy habitats.

The benthic organisms at the sampling sites will be recorded on video and still camera to allow for retrospective analysis of data such as, determining functional groups. Functional groups in this context relates to reef builders (for example, scleractinian coral, coralline algae) versus non reef builders, and between important benthic primary producers (for example, turf algae) versus other benthic organisms. This information will be presented in the PER. The maps will serve three purposes:



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determine the spatial extent of BPPH as defined under EPA Guidance Statement No.29 (EPA 2004b)

identify sensitive or threatened habitats/communities for purposes of the PER and Draft DSDMP

identify areas suitable for the establishment of impact and reference monitoring locations.

Delineation of suitable management zones and units and estimation of the potential losses of specific benthic primary producer habitat types within a unit will be calculated according to the Benthic Primary Producer Guidelines (EPA 2004) and in consultation with the DEC. The detailed habitat mapping, and outputs from the sediment plume modelling will be used to calculate loss. Historical losses from previous projects in the area will also be calculated and incorporated into cumulative loss.

A baseline water quality monitoring program will be established within the defined study area. Turbidity (NTU), light attenuation, and temperature will be measured at specific locations. SKM and Curtin University conducted a field exercise which investigated the relationship between NTU, light attenuation and TSS. The results of this study will be used in the data analysis. This data will be used to determine background water quality within the region to:

determine whether individual coral (or other BPPH) monitoring sites should have individual water quality trigger levels to monitor against during dredging

enable the development of suitable water quality thresholds for inputs into the sediment plume model to determine the locations and extent of potential exceedances of background water quality.

The PER will assess the potential impacts to other key ecological attributes in addition to BPPH. This will include influence of other habitats like fish spawning or turtle mating areas that are predicted to be within the zone of influence.

The PER will assess the cumulative impacts on coral and other benthic habitats from the entire dredging program and will assess the relevance to the Port B development of any other nearby dredging operations.

The PER will address potential impacts and management measures for fishing, pearling and aquaculture activities including the vacant pearl lease owned by Fantome Pearls Pty Ltd situated adjacent to the proposed Port B development.

The PER will include a review of the environmental implications associated with different spoil ground options including an assessment of spoil ground behaviour (for example, re-suspension) at existing spoil grounds.

At this stage, disposal of dredge spoil on land is not likely, but has been retained in this proposal as an option. If there is a proposal to dispose dredged spoil on land the ESD commits to providing the following in the PER:

spoil quality and suitability for land disposal

chemical (toxicant) presence in the dredge spoil and potential impacts on the local environment associated with these toxicants

drainage and sedimentation management of the spoil disposal area



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justification for any proposed return water discharge to the marine environment, including demonstration that impact avoidance and minimisation, and best practice principles have been addressed

predictions of extent, intensity and duration of turbidity plumes and potential ecological consequences associated with marine discharge of return water

appraisal of the likely effectiveness of different proposed management strategies that could be employed by the proponent to constrain environmental impacts to those predicted above

a monitoring and management program for any marine discharge of return or leached water.

An assessment of potential environmental impacts on the proposed Dampier Archipelago Marine Park will be undertaken and incorporated into the PER and DSDMP.

There will be regular consultation with the DEC early in the PER process to discuss the following key steps and approaches:

habitat mapping methodology

hydrodynamic and sediment plume model, methodology and key input parameters

baseline water quality programme and selection of sites

delineation of management units

benthic primary producer habitat assessment as per the guidelines (EPA 2004b).

6.8 Marine Water Quality

6.8.1 Purpose To define the degree of conformity and non-conformity of the proposal with the current spatial allocation of Environmental Quality Objectives (EQOs) and associated levels of ecological protection. This includes recreational, aesthetic, cultural and social values.

6.8.2 Scope

The PER will include an assessment to predict and spatially-define the degree of conformity and non-conformity of the proposal with the current spatial allocation of EQOs and associated levels of ecological protection. This process of assessment will be informed by the results of the recent water quality monitoring programme from CLU80.

Water quality data collected for dredge management (See Section 6.7.2) will also be utilised for the above assessment.

6.9 Stormwater Management

6.9.1 Purpose Identify potential impacts and management measures associated with stormwater management at the Port B development.



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6.9.2 Scope The scope of stormwater management investigations includes the following tasks:

assess potential impacts arising from stormwater management at the Port B development, including any potential for unavoidable offsite stormwater discharges

undertake a site flood study

develop stormwater management measures to minimise any potential issues.

6.10 Water Resources

6.10.1 Purpose Quantify water requirements for the Port B development, and investigate potential water sources for the development in terms of availability and ongoing sustainability.

6.10.2 Scope The scope of the water resources investigation includes the following tasks:

undertake a site water balance, incorporating existing water supply and use with the requirements of the proposed development based on known water requirements from existing facilities

assess the short, medium and long term water requirements for the Port B development and outline options for possibly augmenting the existing Water Corporation scheme (commitments have been made by Rio Tinto Iron Ore with Water Corporation to collaborate and share information and work together on the options analysis and expedite the option selection)

outline the existing scheme in the context of other local water users and water source dependant environmental values

develop a water management plan for Cape Lambert including preliminary business-wide water efficiency targets (with targets finalised around January 2009)

develop water supply contingency plans, including the evaluation of alternative dust management methods.

The results of these studies will be presented and discussed in the PER document.

6.11 Aboriginal Heritage

6.11.1 Purpose Determine if the Port B development will have an adverse impact on Aboriginal heritage sites and design the Port B development to minimise the impact on Aboriginal heritage sites and manage other Aboriginal heritage sites accordingly.

6.11.2 Scope Although some heritage surveys have previously been completed at Cape Lambert, additional surveys are required. Aboriginal heritage surveys have yet to be conducted over the entire Port B development area.



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Further heritage surveys of the Port B development area will be undertaken once Pilbara Iron has consulted with Aboriginal groups with an interest in the area (Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation) and is available to participate in the required survey. Surveys are planned to commence in mid 2008. The work will be conducted in accordance with the principles in EPA Guidance Statement No. 41: Assessment of Aboriginal Heritage (EPA, 2004e) and the requirements of the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA).

While disturbance of heritage sites is to be minimised, Section 18 approval will be sought if there is a requirement to disturb known sites or sites discovered through the proposed surveys.

An assessment of impacts to any Aboriginal Heritage sites recorded in the project area from dust and proximity to workforce accommodation and the development of management measures will be made in the PER. Pilbara Iron will consult with the DIA on heritage issues.

6.12 Visual Amenity/Landscape

6.12.1 Purpose A visual impact assessment will be conducted for the Port B development to assess potential impacts to visual amenity impacts in accordance with regulatory requirements and to recommend how these impacts can be mitigated for the Port B development.

6.12.2 Scope Undertake a review of existing data, including:

acquiring existing digital topographic mapping, aerial photography, port drawings and other relevant data

converting the data to a common coordinate system (conversion parameters to be supplied by Pilbara Iron)

designing an appropriate spatial data store to support project activities

creating and maintaining metadata.

On-site review of the existing visibility of the surrounding land and digital photography for potential use in photomontages from sensitive receptors. Visual receptors will be catalogued to aid in the development of the visual baseline. A series of photographs will be taken in the direction of the proposed site from a number of key vantage-points where the port may be highly visible or where residents/recreational visitors may be subjected to views of the port activity.

Describe the visual baseline by undertaking a desktop study utilising existing survey contour information and the findings of the on-site review.

Describe the landscape character baseline, focussing on the ecological, cultural, recreational, intrinsic and topographical aspects of the landscape.

The scope of this assessment may be extended to include three dimensional modelling, viewshed analyses and the development of photomontages to develop a full landscape and visual impact assessment of the Port B development.



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6.13 Soils and Landforms

6.13.1 Purpose Map the soil and landform features of the Port B development area and identify any significant issues for consideration in the Port B development.

6.13.2 Scope The soils and landform study will:

identify and map soil and landform features in the vicinity of the onshore project footprint

review existing contaminated sites data and Acid Sulphate Soils (ASS) risk mapping for the development area to determine the significance of ASS exposure

map any potential high or moderate risk areas as classified by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) Planning Bulletin BO, 64: Acid Sulphate Soils (WAPC 2003)

identify ASS risk in dredge spoil in the case of onshore disposal and management of any identified risks

identify any significant soil and landform features/ issues for consideration in the facility design/ layout.

Other studies will assess suitable locations for re-locating the existing landfill.

6.14 Traffic

6.14.1 Purpose Determine the impact of the Port B development on local traffic in the Cape Lambert area.

6.14.2 Scope The transport study will:

Identify existing traffic volumes and user groups within the vicinity of the Port B development, using a desktop data review of existing road network condition, existing road user groups, traffic volumes, road hierarchy, road crash history, percentage heavy vehicles, speed limits and the existing capacity of the existing traffic infrastructure. A review of the operational capacity of the existing road infrastructure will also be undertaken.

Outline estimated traffic increases as a result of the development during construction and operation and develop estimates of future forecast traffic volumes associated with the proposed development for the construction phase and during operation.

Identify any anticipated deficiencies within the existing road network as a result of the estimated development transport demand and identify remedial measures. Any impact of the increased traffic volumes on the existing road network will be identified. Measures to mitigate potential impacts will be identified where appropriate.



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The Transport Study will be undertaken in accordance with the Transport Assessment Guidelines for Developments (WAPC 2006) and will involve consultation with Main Roads Western Australia and the Shire of Roebourne.

6.15 Minor Environmental Factors A number of desktop studies will be undertaken to better describe existing characteristics and potential impacts from the Port B development.

Desktop studies will be undertaken as follows:

Recreation and public access – an assessment will be made of the potential impacts on public access to local recreation sites, including Boat Beach and Bells Beach.

Hydrology – to characterise the potential impacts from stormwater runoff and impacts on nearby drainage lines that occur within of adjacent to the development site.

Hydrogeology – to describe the existing hydro-geological formations and the nature of any groundwater aquifers in the area.

Rehabilitation and closure – develop a conceptual rehabilitation and closure management plan.

6.16 Preparation of the PER The PER will be prepared for Pilbara Iron by Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) and various specialists. The PER document will be prepared in accordance with the EPA Guidelines for Preparing a Public Environmental Review/Environmental Review and Management Programme (EPA 2007c) and Schedule 4 (Matters to be addressed by draft public environment report and environmental impact statement) of the EPBC Regulations. It will describe the proposal and the receiving environment in detail, outline the potential impacts of the proposal on factors of the environment, identify proposed management strategies to ensure those environmental factors are protected, and demonstrate that the Port B development can be managed such that it is environmentally acceptable to the community. Framework Environmental Management Plans will be developed for relevant factors. A detailed DSDMP will also be prepared and submitted with the PER describing the specific environmental factors and management associated with dredging and spoil disposal activities.

The PER will be prepared in accordance with the EPBC Regulations 2000, including Schedule 4.

6.17 Environmental Offsets Pilbara Iron will consider the need for any environmental offsets for the Port B development with reference to the EPA Position Statement No. 9 (Environmental Offsets) (EPA 2006).



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7. Stakeholder Consultation

7.1 Consultation to Date Throughout the various upgrades of all Pilbara Operations, Pilbara Iron has consulted relevant stakeholders on future plans and studies. Specifically for the Port B development, preliminary discussions and meetings have been held, or are scheduled to be held, with the relevant traditional owners, government agencies and non-government organisations. This consultation is ongoing and will continue with regard to this current proposal. Consultation to date has included meetings with:

Environmental Protection Authority Services Unit

Shire of Roebourne

Department of Industry and Resources

Department of Environment and Conservation

Department of Water, Heritage and the Arts

Aboriginal representatives

Point Samson Community Association

Cape Lambert Community Advisory Group.

A summary of key issues raised during consultation to date presented in Table 7.

Table 7 Key Issues Raised by Stakeholders to Date

Stakeholder Date Key Issues

Point Samson Community Association

2/08/07 Outcome that next expansion will be west of Cape Lambert and not east toward Point Samson was well received (need to avoid development of buffer zone)

Dust management associated with future expansion Overall environmental impact/management Traffic/marine congestion Avoid use of Johns Creek by dredging vessels and support craft Need to conduct early and continued consultation Migrating sands - use of spoil grounds may have contributed to changing coastline Whales/turtles - risk to marine mammals during dredging

Shire of Roebourne

25/09/07 Validation of dredge plume against Model for the current upgrade Use of John's Creek is impractical during expansion Buffer zone between Cape Lambert and Point Samson needs to be finalised. Work with community for win/win

EPA 27/09/07 Likely that land and marine (dredging) will be combined assessment at PER, need increased public review.

Possible that camp could be separated from main Part IV assessment Sufficient access to water for dust control

DoIR 17/10/07 Impact on turtles Timeliness of environmental approvals for the whole 100+ Mtpa Third party port access.

Shire of Roebourne

19/11/07 Workforce strategy People intensity Technology improvements Potential further expansion at Cape Lambert West Extent of EPA & DEC assurances needed before ordering long lead items Concern over potable water use for dust suppression



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Stakeholder Date Key Issues

DEC Pilbara 25/10/07 Alternative location for laydown area – public access issue Queries regarding stakeholders and tenure – who holds the tenure for this area Approvals process - strong preference for one PER to cover both marine and land Construction camp – likely to be separate to PER approvals Turtles – even if the beach is not a significant turtle nesting beach it would need to

be given careful consideration as turtles are listed species under the EPBC Act and also given the high level of community awareness and interest through ongoing monitoring of turtles.

Key environmental impact will be from dredging. Require community consultation regarding expected dredge plume.

Dust suppression measures including alternative to water (eg surfactants, seawater).

Water Requirements Cultural values – the PER process needs to ensure that this factor is addressed and

DEC kept informed. Ngarluma 31/10/07 Initial discussions on processes required in advance of any heritage survey work

being undertaken Cape Lambert Community Advisory Group

14/11/07 Briefing on the Pilbara 320 Port project provided. Buffer zone issue (securing of area) is still outstanding – will need to address Will there be any work on the houses/public open spaces/release of land? Community Enhancement Scheme will still go ahead. A social impact study will be

the first step and is in process at the moment. Will need to maintain access to Boat Beach as it is very popular

EPA Chairman

8/4/08 Outline of proposed early work requirements (for example, the HOF/tug harbour, gas pipeline relocation and landfill relocation) and options for separating them from PER process

View reached that proposed early works could be separated from PER with existing alternative approval mechanisms (for example the NVCP process) applied.

7.2 Ongoing Consultation Both formal and informal mechanisms will be used as part of the ongoing consultation program. Other stakeholders that will be consulted during the environmental approval process include:

Other government departments and agencies, including:

Department of Industry and Resources

Department of Environment and Conservation

Environmental Protection Authority

Water Corporation

Department of Indigenous Affairs

Pilbara Development Commission

The traditional land owners (Ngarluma) and local indigenous community.

The local community including the Coastal Community Environmental Forum (with members from the Shire of Roebourne, various government agencies, Pilbara Iron, Point Samson Community Association and others)

Local Pilbara Iron workforce.



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In addition, Rio Tinto is currently in the process of concluding a Baseline Community Assessment (BCA) of all Pilbara towns and communities where Pilbara Iron has a major presence. The BCA includes face to face and phone interviews with residents of all Pilbara towns. Results will be available in February 2008.



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8. Project and Assessment Schedule The Port B development is currently in the PFS stage, which is expected to extend until Quarter 4 2008. Depending on the findings of the PFS and Rio Tinto commitment to progress into a more detailed study, the FS will continue through to mid 2009. Construction will commence as soon as all approvals are in place; construction is anticipated to commence by October 2009.

Table 8 shows the indicative schedule for environmental assessment of the Port B development. This schedule is contingent upon availability of key information for each stage of the study.

Table 8 Indicative Project and Assessment Schedule

Task Commencement Completion Approximate Duration

Preparation of Environmental Referral 15/10/07 2/11/07 3 weeks Submission of Environmental Referral 8/11/07 - - EPA sets level of assessment 17/12/07 - - Appeal period 17/12/07 31/12/07 2 weeks Environmental Surveys and Investigations 05/10/07 13/06/08 36 weeks Preparation of draft PER 21/12/07 13/06/08 25 weeks Submission of draft PER to EPA Service Unit and DEWHA

16/06/08 - -

Review of draft PER by EPA Service Unit and DEWHA 16/06/08 25/07/08 6 weeks (30 business days)

Revision of PER 28/07/08 08/08/08 2 weeks Permission to print from EPA Service Unit and DEWHA 11/08/08 15/08/07 1 week Print and Release 18/08/08 05/09/08 3 weeks Public Review of PER 08/09/08 31/10/08 8 weeks Prepare and submit response to public submissions 03/11/08 05/12/08 4 weeks EPA and DEWHA assessment of proposal 08/12/08 20/02/09 11 weeks EPA and DEWHA releases Report and Recommendations

20/02/09 - -

Public Appeal Period on EPA and DEWHA’s Reports and Recommendations

23/02/09 06/03/09 2 weeks

Appeals convenor forwards appeals 09/03/09 13/03/09 1 week Response to appeals 16/03/09 10/04/09 4 weeks Appeals Convenor determines appeals 13/04/09 05/06/09 8 weeks Response to draft conditions 13/04/09 05/06/09 8 weeks Ministers deliberate approval 08/06/09 31/07/09 8 weeks Minister issues approval with conditions and Commonwealth issues sea dumping permit and EPBC approval

31/07/09 - -

Preparation, submission and approval of Works Approval, licence applications etc

25/05/09 27/8/09 16 weeks

Commence construction 1/09/09 - -



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9. Study Team and Peer Review

9.1 Study Team The environmental impact assessment of the Port B development will be carried out by the personnel listed in Table 9 in conjunction with other specialist consultants as required.

Table 9 Key Study Personnel

Title/Role Name

Rio Tinto Iron Ore Study Manager Mike Edwards Cape Lambert Operations Manager Phil Cooke Business Analyst Andrew Dodgson Government Approvals Declan Doherty Tenure Approvals Jim Weekes Environmental Approvals Peter Royce/Una Phelan Engineering Dennis Kelly EPCM Project Manager Anthony Radici Specialist Environmental Advisor Dan Eason Specialist Communities Advisor Leesa King Specialist Heritage Advisor Gavin Martin Specialist Consultants

SKM PER Project Manager Alex Newton (SKM)

Marine Studies Study Leader Gillian Goby (SKM) Air Quality Study Leader Jon Harper (SKM) Fauna Technical Study Leader Dan Kamien (Biota) Vegetation and Flora Technical Study Leader Raymond Orifici (Biota) Marine Turtles Study Leader Roy Teale (Biota) Lighting Assessment Study Leader Tim Shotbolt (Bassett Consulting Engineers) Noise Assessment Study Leader Paul Keswick (SVT Engineering Consultants)

9.2 Peer Review The need for peer review of key technical studies will be discussed with the DEC.



PAGE 45

References AGO 2006, Australian Greenhouse Office Factors and Methods Workbook, December 2006

ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000, Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality.

Beard, J.S. 1975, Pilbara. Explanatory Notes and Map Sheet 5, 1:1,000,000 series Vegetation Survey of Western Australia. University of Western Australia Press: Nedlands.

Biota 2007a, Cape Lambert Geotechnical Testwork: Native Vegetation Clearing Report. Prepared for Pilbara Iron by Biota Environmental Services, December 2007.

Biota 2007b, Cape Lambert Port Expansion Biological Survey – Summary of Findings. 18 October 2007.

Blamires, S. J. and Guinea, M. L. 2003, ‘Emergence success of Flatback sea turtle (Natator depressus) at Fog Bay Northern Territory, Australia’, Chelonian Conservation and Biology vol. 4, issue 3, pp 548-556.

BOM 2007, Bureau of Meteorology, Australia, viewed 7 December 2007 <www.bom.gov.au>.

CALM 2002, Bioregional Summary of the 2002 Biodiversity Audit for Western Australia. Department of Conservation and Land Management.

DoITR 2006, Mine Closure and Completion Handbook, Department of Industry, Training and Resources.

DEC 2007, Department of Environment and Conservation Species Profile and Threats Database, viewed December 2007, <http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl>.

Ecologia 2002, Port Walcott Baseline Survey for Introduced Marine Pests. Report to Robe River Iron and Associates.

EPA 2000a, EPA Guidance Statement No. 18 Prevention of Air Quality Impacts from Land Development Sites, March, 2000

EPA 2000b, EPA Position Statement No. 2: Environmental Protection of Native Vegetation in Western Australia, December 2000.

EPA 2001, EPA Guidance Statement No. 1: Guidance Statement for protection of tropical arid zone mangroves along the Pilbara coastline. 2001.

EPA 2002a, EPA Guidance Statement No. 12: Minimising Greenhouse Gas Emissions, October 2002.

EPA 2002b, EPA Position Statement No. 3: Terrestrial Biological Surveys as an Element of Biodiversity Protection, March 2002.

EPA 2004a, EPA Position Statement No. 7: Principles of Environmental Protection, August 2004.



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EPA 2004b, EPA Guidance Statement No. 29: Benthic Primary Producer Habitat Protection for Western Australia’s Marine Environment

EPA 2004c, EPA Guidance Statement No. 51: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia, June 2004.

EPA 2004d, EPA Guidance Statement No. 56: Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia, June 2004.

EPA 2004e, EPA Guidance Statement No. 41: Assessment of Aboriginal Heritage, April 2004.

EPA 2006, EPA Position Statement No. 9: Environmental Offsets. January 2006.

EPA 2007a, Guide to Preparing an Environmental Scoping Document. August 2007

EPA 2007b, EPA Draft Guidance Statement No. 8: Environmental Noise, May 2007.

EPA 2007c, EPA Guidelines for Preparing a Public Environmental Review/Environmental Review and Management Programme. Version 5, 5 July 2007.

GEM 1998, Environmental Site Assessment Report Cape Lambert Site, Cape Lambert, Western Australia. Project No. 97026.

Guinea M.L. 2008, Draft Marine Turtle Management Plan for Cape Lambert. Prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore

GSWA 1979, Geological Survey of Western Australia 1979, Urban Geology Series Map. Sheet 2536, 1:50,000.

IPCC 2006, 2006 Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories.

LI & IEMA 2002, The Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. 2nd ed., Landscape Institute (LI) and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) (United Kingdom)

Maunsell 1981, Environmental study for channel dredging spoil disposal areas at Cape Lambert. Prepared for Cliffs West Australian Mining Company by Maunsell & Partners Pty Ltd.

NLWRA 2006, Australian Natural Resources Atlas (ANRA), accessed 25 May 2006 <http://audit.ea.gov.au/ANRA/atlas_home.cfm> Commonwealth of Australia.

Commonwealth of Australia (2002) National Ocean Disposal Guidelines for Dredged Material. Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra, May 2002.

Norman, J., C. Moritz, C. J. Limpus and R. Prince 1994, ‘Population genetics as a tool for managing marine turtle populations’. Proceedings of the Australian Marine Turtle Conservation Workshop held at



PAGE 47

Sea World Nara Resort, Gold Coast, 14-17 November 1990 Queensland Dept. of Environment and Heritage, and Australian Nature Conservation Agency.

Pilbara Iron 2004 – 2006, Pilbara Iron Botanical Surveys 2004 – 2006. Botanical Surveys of the Cape Lambert Area:

No. 2006/009 Car Dumper and Locomotive Refuelling Facility

No. 2006/008 Southern Stockyard

No. 2005/85 AN Storage Facility

No. 2005/64 ANFO Storage Facility

No. 2005/63 Locomotive Refuelling Facility

No. 2005/52 Construction Camp Additional Area

No. 2005/2 Quarry

No. 2004/1 Construction Camp.

Prince, R. I. T. 1994, “Status of the western Australian marine turtle populations: the Western Australian Marine Turtle Project 1986-1990”, Proceedings of the Australian Marine Turtle Conservation Workshop held at Sea World Nara Resort, Gold Coast, 14-17 November 1990 Queensland Dept. of Environment and Heritage, and Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.

Salinovich, P. 2006, West Pilbara Community Turtle Program Season Report 005/2006 Data Report: 36.

Salinovich, P. 2007, West Pilbara Community Turtle Program Season 2006/2007 Data Report: 17.

SKM 2007, Dredging program for the Cape Lambert Port Upgrade Environmental Referral Document. Prepared for the Robe River Iron Associates.

Van Vreeswyk A.M.E., Payne, A.L., Leighton, K.A., Hennig, P. 2004, Inventory and Condition Survey of the Pilbara Region Western Australia. Department of Agriculture Technical Bulletin No. 92.

WAPC 2003, Western Australian Planning Commission Planning Bulletin 64: Acid Sulphate Soils, November 2003.

WAPC 2005, Western Australian Planning Commission Draft Statement of Planning Policy: Road and Rail Transport Noise. May 2005.

WAPC 2006, Western Australian Planning Commission Transport Assessment Guidelines for Developments, August 2006

WRC 2000, Water & Rivers Commission Statewide Policy No. 5: Environmental Water Provisions Policy for Western Australia.



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WRC 2003, Water and Rivers Commission WIN database search results <www.wrc.wa.gov.au>, viewed January 2003.



Figures

Figure 1 Location of Cape Lambert Facilities

Figure 2 Preliminary Cape Lambert Port B Development Layout Arrangement

Figure 3 Marine Environment in the Cape Lambert Study Area

Figure 4 Known Turtle Nesting Beaches in the Study Area



PAGE58

Appendix A Review of Data Requirements and Availability for Dredge Modelling

Review of Data Requirements and Availability

for Cape Lambert Dredge Modelling The planned development of Port B at Cape Lambert will require meteorological model output and hydrodynamic, wave and dredge modelling for the environmental impact studies for the project. A summary of the model inputs and the data requirements and availability for climatological analysis and model verification is given in Table 1. A detailed discussion of the requirements for climatological analysis, model input and model verification is given below.

1. General Comments The applicability of a given time period of data to understanding regional climatological influences or to verifying predictions of a model is directly related to the scale (time period) of the data and the location of the observations. In simple terms the data needs to capture the scale of the signal of the parameter to be analysed. For climatological analyses where the focus is on determining the major influences on the region and the variation over seasons and years then the data must be of sufficient time period to capture these processes. The location of the observations needs to be within the region but not necessarily at the precise site of planned operations. For determining the behaviour of parameters with shorter times scales (e.g. sea breezes, tides) then much shorter time periods are appropriate but the data should be near to or arguably representative of the location of the planned operations. For model verification, once the meteorology and oceanography is understood, the verification periods can be for relatively short time periods (say 1 month) which sample the key influences.

MELBOURNE OFFICE PO Box 149, Warrandyte, VIC 3113, +61 (0)3 8683 5405 DR Graeme Hubbert +61 (0)418 366 336 graeme.hubbert@gems‐aus.com Steve Oliver +61 (0)408 818 702 steve.oliver@gems‐aus.com PERTH OFFICE PO Box 1432, Subiaco, WA 6904, +61 (0)8 6364 0880 Matt Eliot +61 (0)418 366 336 matt.eliot@gems‐aus.com WEBSITE www.gems‐aus.com ABN 28 061 965 339

GEMS G L O B A L E N V I R O N M E N T A L M O D E L L I N G S Y S T E M S

G L O B A L E N V I R O N M E N T A L M A P P I N G S Y S T E M S

G L O B A L E N V I R O N M E N T A L M O N I T O R I N G S Y S T E M S

2. Meteorological Data 2.1 Climatological Analysis

In order to understand the range of meteorological parameters affecting a region it is necessary to obtain meteorological observations spanning many years. The longer the data record the better but a minimum period equivalent to the average time between El Nino events is desirable (this is typically 7 years).

This dataset will allow analysis of both seasonal and inter- annual variations to ensure that the full range of meteorological influences are considered in the modelling.

For dredging programs of a year or more the “base case” can then be simulated for an “average” time period and then repeated for two further time periods analysed to be at opposite extremes of the inter-annual variations. On the Northwest Shelf this usually equates to periods of more or less easterly/north-easterly wind events.

Data Availability: Long term wind data is available at a number of stations in the

region including Roebourne Airport, Karratha Airport and Barrow Island (Barrow Island and North Rankin platform offer the best long term representation of offshore winds on the Northwest Shelf).

2.2 Meteorological Forcing for Ocean Models

To drive ocean models it is important to use an atmospheric forecast model which represents variations on daily (incl, sea-breezes), seasonal and inter-annual time scales.

The BoM routinely operates a suite of Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models at a range of spatial and temporal resolutions. These models are nested in space so that the model system captures a range of atmospheric scales ranging from global through regional (continental) to the local, or Mesoscale. The main Australian region forecast model run by the BoM is LAPS (Limited Area Prediction System) which runs on a 35km grid from halfway across the Indian Ocean to east of New Zealand. This model runs twice daily nested in the BoM global atmospheric model – GASP (Global Assimilation and Prediction model) and produces forecasts out to ten days. The BoM has also operated its meso-scale model (MesoLAPS – Mesoscale Limited Area Prediction System) at a spatial resolution of about 10km for a period of more than seven years (since the Sydney 2000 Olympics). The model is nested inside LAPS and runs twice daily producing an analysis and forecasts out to 48 hours. Meteorological data from the analysis cycle (zero hour) and the first eleven hours of forecasts of this model are now routinely downloaded twice daily and archived by GEMS. This generates a database of hourly meteorological data with the longest forecast time step of eleven hours. Validation of the accuracy of the meteorological data for each new study area needs to be undertaken, however GEMS has GEMS has compared a number of potential sources of spatially and temporally varying wind fields and concluded that MesoLAPS provides the best representation of coastal wind regimes.

2.3 Model Verification The seasonal and inter-annual variations in the MesoLAPS wind fields can be verified on a regional scale and do not necessarily require data precisely at the dredging site because these effects are regional and not just local. In this case long term model output (there are 8 years of MesoLAPS data) can be analysed to compare seasonal and inter-annual variations with data from standard BoM stations in the region (and North Rankin platform if available from Woodside). To verify the representation of local effects such as sea-breezes, katabatic flow and coastal steering it is necessary to obtain offshore meteorological data near the dredging site. Due to the nature of the analysis (local effects on short time scales) however a much shorter period of data is required for this form of verification (typically up to 3 months).

Data Availability: 3 months of data has been obtained from a new Automatic

Weather Station installed on the jetty at Cape Lambert on February 2, 2008.

3. Tidal Data

3.1 Determination of Tidal Constituents The tidal harmonic constituents at a site are determined by analysing long term sea level measurements. Port Walcott is a standard port in the Australian Tide Tables produced by the National Tidal Facility and so the tidal harmonics at Cape Lambert have been established already.

3.2 Tidal Forcing for Ocean Modelling

Tidal forcing to be applied to the open boundaries of the hydrodynamic model needs to reflect the complex variation of the tidal propagation on the Northwest Shelf. The GEMS’ approach is to model the region from Northwest Cape to Broome in order to capture the tidal processes on the larger scale. Tidal forcing at the open ocean boundaries is based on data from the GEMS Australian region gridded (1km resolution) tidal data base, which has been developed with extensive modelling programmes (primarily for AMSA Search and Rescue in Canberra).

3.3 Model Verification

The major tidal constituents are semi-diurnal (e.g. M2 and S2) or diurnal (e.g. O1 and K1) and so their amplitude and phase can be derived from a relatively short period of observations. A lunar month of data from a single station in the dredging region is therefore adequate to verify whether the ocean model is correctly representing the behaviour of the major tidal constituents.

Data Availability: 1) 4 months of sea level data is now available from the

ADCPs deployed off Cape Lambert since December 18, 2007.

2) Long term tidal predictions are given in the National Tide

Tables for Port Walcott

4. Current Data

4.1 Climatological Analysis It is important to understand the oceanography of the region before any detailed modelling is commenced. This is necessary in order to ensure that the model is representing the full range of influences on ocean circulation. Seasonal processes as well as daily and weekly processes need to be investigated to determine the appropriate model forcing required to simulate these processes. The minimum data requirement is therefore 12 months.

Data Availability: 23 months of data is available from an AWAC which has been deployed at the end of the jetty since May 2006.


The 3D hydrodynamic model needs to be verified in terms of its ability to represent the horizontal and vertical variations in currents over time. The climatological analysis will indicate the important contributions to the circulation in the region and the model should be verified with data with a duration that captures the signal of the important components of the circulation.

If the circulation is dominated by tidal and wind driven forcing then a month of data is adequate to verify the tidal currents whereas a month during each dominant season of winds is desirable if circulation is wind driven only.

If the circulation includes influences from other sources such as the Leeuwin Current or shelf waves then a month of data for verification is still adequate but it should be for a month which contains evidence of these influences.

Data Availability: 1) 23 months of 3D current data is available from an AWAC

which has been deployed at the end of the jetty since May 2006.

2) 4 months of 3D current data is now available from the

ADCPs deployed off Cape Lambert since December 18, 2007. 3) Short term surface drifter tracks are available for 2 periods

in June, 2006 and April, 2008.

5. Wave Data

5.1 Climatological Analysis The wave climate is heavily dominated by the wind climate and so the same logic as for the meteorological analysis applies. The analysis and verification of winds will therefore provide an assessment of the variation in wave forcing. It should be noted that for this work there is no need to carry out a full climatological analysis of waves in order to derive the 1 in 100 year conditions etc. The important aspect for modelling is that the waves are being simulated adequately across the frequency spectrum with the chosen wind forcing and bathymetry.


GEMS uses the SWAN wave model driven by BoM model wind fields. The model predictions need to be verified, during the dominant wind “seasons”, across the frequency spectrum. As for the currents therefore a month of data at two different times of the year is adequate.

Data Availability: 1) 23 months of wave data is available from an AWAC which

has been deployed at the end of the jetty since May 2006. 2) 4 months of wave data is now available from the ADCPs

deployed off Cape Lambert since December 18, 2007.

6. Summary It is our opinion that the available data satisfies all the minimum requirements discussed above and in many cases exceeds these requirements.

Table 1: Summary of Model Inputs and Data Availability for Verification

Modelling Component

Parameter Model Input Minimum Desired

Verification Period

Data Source Total Period of data

Typical Weeks Used for Other

Dredge Programs

3D Hydrodynamic

Model

Bathymetry

Australian Region Digital Marine Charts

- Geo Sciences Australia

- -

Airborne Laser Observations

- Roebourne Shire Council

- -

Meteorology Bureau of Meteorology High Resolution (10km) Atmospheric Forecast Model (MesoLAPS)

13 weeks

Automatic Weather Station on Cape Lambert jetty (installed Feb 05, 2008)

12 weeks (to date)

5 - 13

Tides GEMS Australian Region Tidal Data Grid (developed for AUSSAR)

4 weeks 1) Port Walcott Standard Tide Station

2) 2 Port B ADCPs

1) Many Years

2) See “3D Currents”

4

3D Currents Generated by model 2 x 4 week periods

1) CLU80 ADCP

2) Jetty AWAC

3) 2 Port B ADCPs 4) Surface Drifters

1) April 13 – May 24, 2006

2) May, 2006 onwards

3) Dec 18, 2007 onwards

4) June, 2006 and April, 2008

2 x 4

Wave Model

Meteorology Bureau of Meteorology Atmospheric Forecast Models (GASP and MesoLAPS)

13 weeks Automatic Weather Station on Cape Lambert jetty (installed Feb 05, 2008)

12 weeks (to date)

5 – 13

Waves Generated by model 13 weeks 1) Jetty AWAC 2) Port B ADCP

data

1) May, 2006 onwards

2) See “3D Currents”

13

Cape Lambert Port B Development

Documents

Transcript of Cape Lambert Port B Development