❓ Question regarding groundwater management at the Fimiston I Tailings Storage Facility in Kalgoorlie, owned by Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining, and the Department of Environment's control strategy to prevent vegetation deaths.
AnsweredQoN 2543Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to a letter dated January 12 2005, addressed to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC signed by Minister Judy Edwards titled, ‘Fimiston I Tailings Storage Facility Kalgoorlie’, which is owned by Barrick Gold and Newmont Mining, and a letter dated November 9 2004, signed by D Carew Hopkins, Acting Director General, titled ‘Independent Technical Review of the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mine Pty Ltd’s (KCGM), proposal to raise the Fimiston I tailings storage facility (TSF) -
(1) Is it correct that part of the letter dated November 9 2004, states ‘Based on this assessment the DOE has instigated a control strategy for the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines Pty Ltd (KCGM), that primarily aims to maintain groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths, with the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term’?
(2) If no to (1), will the Minister table the letter dated November 9 2004?
(3) Can the Minister state the depth below ground level of groundwater levels that the Department believes will prevent deaths and stress on vegetation, and how this depth is justified?
(4) If no to (3), why not?
(5) Can the Minister state on what specific date or month did the Department commence to have the secondary objective to reduce groundwater to historical levels in the longer term?
(6) If no to (5), why not?
(7) Can the Minister explain for what environmental reasons under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
is there a need to achieve the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term, given that the Department has advised that all tailings dams have leakage and seepage through the floor of the tailings dam?
(8) If no to (7), why not?
(1) Is it correct that part of the letter dated November 9 2004, states ‘Based on this assessment the DOE has instigated a control strategy for the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines Pty Ltd (KCGM), that primarily aims to maintain groundwater levels to prevent vegetation deaths, with the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term’?
(2) If no to (1), will the Minister table the letter dated November 9 2004?
(3) Can the Minister state the depth below ground level of groundwater levels that the Department believes will prevent deaths and stress on vegetation, and how this depth is justified?
(4) If no to (3), why not?
(5) Can the Minister state on what specific date or month did the Department commence to have the secondary objective to reduce groundwater to historical levels in the longer term?
(6) If no to (5), why not?
(7) Can the Minister explain for what environmental reasons under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986
is there a need to achieve the secondary objective to reduce the groundwater to historical levels in the longer term, given that the Department has advised that all tailings dams have leakage and seepage through the floor of the tailings dam?
(8) If no to (7), why not?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
20 September 2005
Responded by
Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for the Environment
Response time
26 days
The Minister for the Environment; Science has provided the following response: (1) Yes (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
The Minister for the Environment; Science has provided the following response: (1) Yes (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(1) Yes (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(8) Not applicable.
The Minister for the Environment; Science has provided the following response: (1) Yes (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(1) Yes (2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(2) Not applicable. (3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(3) The target is to keep groundwater four metres 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) 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 soils closer to the coast showing four metre root zones, which supports the hypothesis. However, it is likely these root zone values are deep 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 as a precautionary approach it has been suggested that the four metres should be applied until research can be undertaken. One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
One example of relevant research within the Rangelands area is titled "Ecological water requirements for the Lower Gascoyne River, SMEC Australia Pty Ltd" SMEC 2001. (4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(4) Not applicable. (5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(5) Yes. The Thompson and Brett Review into the Kalgoorlie Consolidated Gold Mines (KCGM) tailings storage facilities was released on 19 October 2004. In particular reference to these facilities, it recommended that the Department consider requiring KCGM to achieve historical water levels. The Minister for the Environment endorsed the Department considering this matter further in the Appeal Determination handed down on 12 January 2005 as referenced by the letter to Hon Robin Chapple, MLC of that day. Between the release of the Thompson and Brett Review in October 2004 and the letter of November 2004 the Department was formulating its position on the Review recommendations. With the handing down of the Appeal Determination by the Minister for the Environment on 12 January 2005, the Department was given the mandate to continue working towards these two objectives. (6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(6) Not applicable. (7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(7) The environmental basis for the decision was the need to progress management of tailings storage facilities towards some historical groundwater levels so that when the sites are decommissioned pumping does not have to occur for a long period of time to control the water levels in the area. Also by working towards historical levels, should the company become insolvent and the seepage recovery pumps are turned off, 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. It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
It is worth noting that whilst working towards historical levels may be over and above KCGM's legal requirements under its licence, it is appropriate action by the company to voluntarily demonstrate the continued push for best practice. The company can, through demonstrating its willingness to achieve these historical levels, show the community it is committed to its environmental responsibilities. In turn, when the company applies to the Department of Environment for further lifts of the tailings facility it will take into consideration these voluntary actions to work towards historical groundwater levels. This is the crux of the Appeal Determinations handed down on 12 January 2005. (8) Not applicable.
(8) Not applicable.
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