❓ A WA parliamentary question probes the environmental rationale behind managing water levels at Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining's tailings dams, questioning the Department of Environment's objectives and potential overreach beyond legal requirements, while the Minister defends the approach as both preventative and promoting best practice.
AnsweredQoN 2613Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to Fimiston I and Fimiston II tailings dams owned by Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining, operated by Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines Pty Ltd (KCGM) and Question on Notice No. 2543, of August 25 2005 -
(1) Can the Minister explain for what environmental reasons under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
is their a need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards historical levels so that when the sites are decommissioned, pumping does not have to occur for a long period to control the water levels?
(2) If no to (1), why not?
(3) Can the Minister explain why is their a need to control the water levels from the Fimiston I and Fimiston II tailings dams, given that the Department has clearly facilitated and encouraged KCGM to have emissions leaving their premises entering tenements not owned by KCGM and other land holders, and repeatedly maintained that no pollution or environmental harm is being caused to any of these tenement and landholders?
(4) If no to (3), why not?
(5) Can the Minister state why has the Department set objectives of reducing water levels to historical levels and given advice to the Minister for the Environment as a strategy in which the Department acknowledges is not legally enforceable under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
?
(6) If no to (5), why not?
(7) Is the Department incompetent or protecting KCGM in setting objectives of reducing groundwater levels to historical levels in which the Department acknowledges may be over and above KCGM’s legal requirement under its licence?
(8) If no to (7), why not ?
(9) Can the Minister explain why the Department is of the view that whilst working towards historical levels it may be over and above KCGM’s legal requirements under its licence?
(10) If no to (9), why not?
(1) Can the Minister explain for what environmental reasons under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
is their a need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards historical levels so that when the sites are decommissioned, pumping does not have to occur for a long period to control the water levels?
(2) If no to (1), why not?
(3) Can the Minister explain why is their a need to control the water levels from the Fimiston I and Fimiston II tailings dams, given that the Department has clearly facilitated and encouraged KCGM to have emissions leaving their premises entering tenements not owned by KCGM and other land holders, and repeatedly maintained that no pollution or environmental harm is being caused to any of these tenement and landholders?
(4) If no to (3), why not?
(5) Can the Minister state why has the Department set objectives of reducing water levels to historical levels and given advice to the Minister for the Environment as a strategy in which the Department acknowledges is not legally enforceable under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
?
(6) If no to (5), why not?
(7) Is the Department incompetent or protecting KCGM in setting objectives of reducing groundwater levels to historical levels in which the Department acknowledges may be over and above KCGM’s legal requirement under its licence?
(8) If no to (7), why not ?
(9) Can the Minister explain why the Department is of the view that whilst working towards historical levels it may be over and above KCGM’s legal requirements under its licence?
(10) If no to (9), why not?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
8 November 2005
Responded by
Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for the Environment
Response time
47 days
The Minister for the Environment; Science has provided the following response: (1) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards achieving historical groundwater levels in surrounding areas, so that when the site's are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to stabilise groundwater levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company unexpectedly need to turn off the seepage recovery pumps, there is some leeway between the water levels at this time and those levels that may cause environmental harm. In tandem with the approach of moving groundwater levels towards historical levels the Minister for the Environment has recommended that the Department of Environment consider applying financial assurances on this facility. (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(1) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards achieving historical groundwater levels in surrounding areas, so that when the site's are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to stabilise groundwater levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company unexpectedly need to turn off the seepage recovery pumps, there is some leeway between the water levels at this time and those levels that may cause environmental harm. In tandem with the approach of moving groundwater levels towards historical levels the Minister for the Environment has recommended that the Department of Environment consider applying financial assurances on this facility. (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(10) Not applicable.
(1) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards achieving historical groundwater levels in surrounding areas, so that when the site's are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to stabilise groundwater levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company unexpectedly need to turn off the seepage recovery pumps, there is some leeway between the water levels at this time and those levels that may cause environmental harm. In tandem with the approach of moving groundwater levels towards historical levels the Minister for the Environment has recommended that the Department of Environment consider applying financial assurances on this facility. (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(3) The target is to keep groundwater 4m below ground level in the Southern Goldfields. In most of the Goldfields there is hyper-saline groundwater (saltier than sea water) and the vegetation of the region does not use this water for its growth. Rather it is understood that the Eucalyptus species rely on the relatively even spread of summer and winter rainfalls being retained in the upper soil profile. Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
Unfortunately no specific research exists for the root zone depth of the Eucalyptus species in the Southern Goldfields to clarify or refine this target. Some research is available for eucalyptus species for alluvial sands closer to the coast showing 4m root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deeper due to the fresh water at depth near the coast, whereas in the southern Goldfields the saltier water at depth prevents deep root growth. Therefore a precautionary approach has suggested that the 4m should be applied until research can be undertaken. (4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(4) Not applicable. (5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(5) The Department of Environment has given advice that the primary aim at KCGM should be to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. Prevention of vegetation death from the direct impact of rising water levels is considered entirely consistent with the need to ensure KCGM don't have an impact that causes pollution or environmental harm (serious or material). Licenses issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 need to ensure that the likelihood of these impacts are reduced. In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
In addition to the primary objective the Department of Environment has recommended that the secondary objective is to reduce groundwater to historical levels. Aiming towards historical levels will achieve the benefits outlined in the answer to question one, but these are not considered matters that relate to pollution or environmental harm (serious or material) and therefore shouldn't be enforced through Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 . Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
Working with industry on implementing environmental best practices that go over and above their legal requirements is part of the agency's charter. It is worth noting that KCGM can by working to achieve the historical limits show the community its commitment to best practice and good environmental principles. (6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable. (7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(7) The Department of Environment's advice to the Minister for the Environment is consistent with the answer in question (5). The Department of Environment's primary objective at KCGM is to maintain, where practicable, groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths. In addition to the primary objective is the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term for the reasons highlighted in answer to (1). (8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(8) Not applicable. (9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(9) As mentioned in answer to question (5) the Department of Environment has both a regulatory role and a role to promote environmental initiatives. Within the regulatory role the Department of Environment needs to ensure that instruments such as licences issued under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 minimise the likelihood of pollution occurring. The Department of Environment's primary objective for the site is to ensure that the licence and site operation are minimising the likelihood of pollution occurring. In the case of KCGM these means ensuring action is taken to, where practicable, ensure groundwater levels are at sufficient depth to prevent vegetation death. (10) Not applicable.
(10) Not applicable.
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