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Yilgarn Operations
Claw Deposit
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA)
Clearing Permit (Area Permit)
Supporting Information
August 2017
Document Status
Revision Author Distribution Date Status
0 S Hawkins DMIRS 10.08.2017 Public Release
Citation
This report should be cited as:
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2017) Yilgarn Operations – Claw Deposit - Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (WA) – Clearing Permit (Area Permit) – Supporting Information. Report prepared by Hawkins S of Globe
Environments Australia Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 0. August 2017.
Acknowledgement
This report includes recent contributions provided by Cliffs’ supporting consultants including (in alphabetical order) Biota
Environmental Sciences, CAD Resources, Rockwater Pty Ltd, Soil Water Consultants and Western Botanical. The assistance
and contributions of these supporting consultants is acknowledged and appreciated.
Limitations
This report has been prepared by Globe Environments Australia Pty Ltd for the exclusive use of the Client, for the sole
purpose stated in the report title. Globe Environments Australia Pty Ltd has prepared this report in a manner consistent with
the normal level of care and expertise exercised by members of the environmental services profession. In preparing this
report, Globe Environments Australia Pty Ltd has relied on information provided by the Client, as well as other publicly
available contextual information, all of which is presumed accurate and complete on receipt. Globe Environments
Australia Pty Ltd makes no warranty and accepts no liability for the use of this report by persons other than the Client or for
use of this report in excess of its stated purpose.
Globe Environments Australia Pty Ltd
Contact: Stuart Hawkins
Director / Consulting Scientist B.Sc. Hons (Env. Mgt), ECA.
Phone: 0400 455 554
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.GlobeEnvironments.com.au
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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Executive Summary
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (Cliffs) operates the Yilgarn Operations, which includes the
mining of iron ore deposits at the Koolyanobbing Range, Mt Jackson Range, Windarling Range
and the Deception Deposit (to be developed), processing of ore at Koolyanobbing, and road
and rail transport between these operations and the Port of Esperance where the processed ore is
exported to international customers.
Resource drilling undertaken during 2015/2016 has identified an economic ore resource at the
Claw Deposit located within Mining Lease M77/1259-I, positioned immediately adjacent to the
approved Deception Deposit. Accordingly, Cliffs now proposes to extend its approved mine
operations to include the Claw Deposit (‘the Project’).
The Project is expected to yield an estimated 3.9 million tonnes of iron ore having a gross
economic value of approximately A$190million. The Project has been scheduled to commence
from Q1 2018 and will have an expected mining-life of approximately 2 years.
The Project will be undertaken within a spatial area of approximately 110 hectares (ha),
comprising the following mine infrastructure components, as identified by Figure E-1:
(a) Mine Pit (46ha); and
(b) Waste Rock Landform (64ha).
The Project area of 110ha comprises approximately 106ha of native vegetation and 4ha of
cleared land. The native vegetation will require clearing to enable the implementation of the
Project.
A Clearing Permit under s51E of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) will be required to
enable the clearing of the native vegetation. Cliffs has submitted an application to the
Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) for a Clearing Permit (Area Permit)
for the Project in accordance with s51E of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA)
(Cliffs 2017a). The purpose of the Clearing Permit is to allow for the clearing of native vegetation
within the area of the Project (the ‘Application Area’).
This Supporting Information document has been prepared to provide DMIRS with supporting
information to assess the Clearing Permit application, as required by the DMIRS (2016) guidance
document Information Required to Assess Your Clearing Permit Application.
As outlined by this Supporting Information document, the potential environmental effects of the
clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area are not environmentally significant;
representing an incremental increase to the environmental effects of Cliffs’ approved Yilgarn
Operations.
To ensure the potential environmental effects are minimised and controlled to an acceptable
level, Cliffs proposes to undertake the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area in
accordance with Cliffs’ Environmental Policy (Cliffs Natural Resources 2017, Attachment 1) and
international standard ISO 14001:2004-certified Environmental Management System (EMS)
(SGS 2015, Attachment 2). Cliffs’ EMS contains a series of Environmental Management Plans
(EMPs) that address specific environmental aspects of the mine operations. Cliffs considers the
potential environmental effects of the clearing of native vegetation can be appropriately
managed to an acceptable standard in accordance with the following EMP:
(a) Flora and Vegetation Management Plan (Cliffs 2016, Attachment 3).
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Cliffs will implement the Flora and Vegetation Management Plan to ensure the potential
environmental effects of the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area are
appropriately managed.
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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Figure E-1 Clearing Permit Application Area. The Application Area (110ha) is identified in yellow.
Areas of Cliffs’ approved mine operations are identified in orange. Tenement boundaries are also
identified.
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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1 Supporting Information
The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and safety (DMIRS) (2016) guidance document
Information Required to Assess Your Clearing Permit Application identifies various information
requirements to support the assessment of a Clearing Permit application. The format used in this
supporting information document conforms to the DMIRS (2016) guidance, with the DMIRS’s
information requirements identified in the boxes, and the supporting information provided by Cliffs
to address the requirements located beneath the boxes.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o A completed application form, available from Department of Environmental Regulation
A completed Clearing Permit application (Cliffs 2017a) has been submitted to DMIRS with this
Supporting Information document.
The Application Area for the Clearing Permit is approximately 110 hectares (ha), which comprises
106ha of native vegetation and 4ha of cleared land.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o The prescribed fee
A completed form Credit Card Payment for Clearing Permit Applications (Cliffs 2017b) has been
submitted to DMIRS with the Clearing Permit application (Cliffs 2017a) and this Supporting
Information document.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o A letter of authority, if a person is signing the application on behalf of a company or incorporated body (Section
51E of Environmental Protection Act 1986)
The Clearing Permit application (Cliffs 2017a) has been signed by Cliffs’ Senior Director Asia Pacific
Iron Ore, being the most senior management position for Cliffs’ Australian operations.
A separate letter of authority from the Senior Director providing himself with an authorisation to
sign is therefore not necessary.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o A letter from the tenement holder authorising you to apply for a clearing permit on their tenement, (if the
clearing is to be done on a tenement other than your own)
The Application Area is positioned within Mining Lease M77/1259-I granted to Cliffs under the
Mining Act 1978 (WA).
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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As Cliffs is the tenement holder of Mining Lease M77/1259-I, a separate letter from the tenement
holder is not necessary.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o A scaled map of the area proposed to clear (see Mapping Information Required)
Mapping Information Required
Preferred formats with digital spatial data and the following properties: o format - ESRI Shapefile o geometry type - Polygon o coordinate system - GCS GDA1994 (geographic) o datum - Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994
Whilst an ESRI Shapefile format is preferred, other formats such as Autocad (dxf), Microstation (dgn) and Mapinfo (TAB, MIF) can be provided. Please be aware that formats other than ESRI shapefile will need to be converted, which may cause a delay in the processing of your application.
Note: CD’s, DVD’s or thumb drives should be clearly labelled with proponent name and a description of the contents.
Scaled mapping identifying the Application Area is provided at Figures 1 to 6. The mapping
identifies the location of the Application Area, land tenure and the recorded environmental
values.
Shapefiles (GDA94 datum) of the Application Area are provided on the compact disc within
Section 3 References.
Figure 1 identifies the location of the Application Area at a regional scale, including the extent of
Cliffs’ approved Yilgarn Operations.
Figure 2 identifies the Application Area for the Clearing Permit application. Figure 2 is overlayed
on aerial photography with tenement boundaries identified. Areas of Cliffs’ approved mine
operations are also identified.
Figure 3 identifies the location and general mine layout within the Application Area. Figure 4 is
overlayed on aerial photography with tenement boundaries identified. Areas of Cliffs’ approved
mine operations are also identified. The infrastructure components within the Application Area
(following the clearing of native vegetation) will include a Mine Pit and a Waste Rock Landform,
with these components connecting to Cliffs’ approved mine operations.
Figure 4 identifies the locations of flora taxa of conservation significance recorded within the
Application Area and surrounds. The Application Area does not coincide with any record of
‘Rare Flora’ taxa protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (WA Minister for
Environment 2017a). The Application Area coincides with recorded individuals of the Department
of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) classified ‘priority’ flora taxon Banksia
arborea (P4) (DBCA 2017a). Banksia arborea (P4) has been recorded at multiple locations across
the broader Yilgarn region, with the nearest recorded group of this taxon occurring approximately
4km north of the Application Area (Cliffs unpublished data).
Figure 5 identifies the locations of vegetation units mapped within the Application Area and
surrounds. The Application Area coincides with the mapped area of 10 vegetation units; each
which have broader distributions beyond the Application Area. The Application Area does not
coincide with any mapped record of a DBCA-classified ‘priority’ ecological community
(DBCA 2013, 2017b).
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Figure 6 identifies the locations of fauna taxa of conservation significance recorded within the
Application Area and surrounds. The Application Area does not coincide with any record of
‘Specially Protected Fauna’ taxa protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA)
(WA Minister for Environment 2017b). The Application Area coincides with recorded individuals of
the DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4) (DBCA 2017c). Aganippe
castellum (P4) has been recorded at multiple locations across the broader Yilgarn region. The
Application Area also coincides with recorded/sampled locations of potential short-range
endemic invertebrate fauna taxa; none of which are of listed conservation significance.
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Figure 1 Regional Location. The regional location of the Application Area is identified by the yellow icon.
Cliffs’ approved mine operations at the Koolyanobbing Range, Mt Jackson Range, Windarling Range
and the Deception Deposit are also identified.
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Figure 2 Clearing Permit Application Area. The Application Area (110ha) is identified in yellow. Areas of
Cliffs’ approved mine operations are identified in orange. Tenement boundaries are also identified.
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Figure 3 General Mine Layout. The Application Area (110ha) is identified in yellow. The general mine
layout and conceptual design for the infrastructure components within the Application Area (following
the clearing of native vegetation) are identified in white. Areas of Cliffs’ currently approved mine
operations are identified in orange, with their general mine layout identified in grey.
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Figure 4 Flora Taxa. The Application Area is identified in yellow. The Application Area coincides with
individuals of the DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora taxon Banksia arborea (P4) (DBCA 2017a). Data source:
Biota (2011a); Western Botanical (2009a, 2012a, 2012b).
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Figure 5a Vegetation Units. The Application Area is identified in yellow. The Application Area coincides
with 10 vegetation units, each which have broader distribution beyond the Application Area. Data
source: Biota (2011a); Western Botanical (2012a, 2012b).
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Figure 5b Vegetation Units. A description of each mapped vegetation unit is provided. Data source:
Biota (2011a).
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Figure 6 Fauna Taxa. The Application Area is identified in yellow. The Application Area coincides with
records of the DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4) (DBCA 2017c) and
recorded/sampled locations of potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa (none of which
are of listed conservation significance). Data source: Biota (2011b, 2011c).
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DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o A description of the proposed activities
Following the clearing of the native vegetation within the Application Area, mine operations are
proposed to be undertaken.
Resource drilling undertaken during 2015/2016 has identified an economic ore resource at the
Claw Deposit located within Mining Lease M77/1259-I, positioned immediately adjacent to Cliffs’
approved Deception Deposit mine operations. Accordingly, Cliffs now proposes to extend its
approved mine operations to include the Claw Deposit (‘the Project’).
The Project is expected to yield an estimated 3.9 million tonnes of iron ore having a gross
economic value of approximately A$190million. The Project has been scheduled to commence
from Q1 2018 and will have an expected mining-life of approximately 2 years.
The Project will be undertaken within a spatial area of approximately 110ha comprising the
following mine infrastructure components:
o Mine Pit (46ha); and
o Waste Rock Landform (64ha).
The land area subject to the Clearing Permit application (the ‘Application Area’) comprises
approximately 106ha of native vegetation and 4ha of cleared land (refer to aerial imagery in
Figure 2). Clearing of the native vegetation within the Application Area will be necessary to
enable Project development.
The Project will be integrated into Cliffs’ approved Yilgarn Operations, with the existing
infrastructure and facilities used to the extent necessary to support the Project.
The Project will be subject to assessment by DMIRS of a Clearing Permit application (Cliffs 2017a)
under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) to seek to authorise the clearing of native
vegetation. The Project will also be subject to assessment by DMIRS of a Mining Proposal
(Cliffs 2017c) under the Mining Act 1978 (WA) to seek to authorise mining development for the
Project. Cliffs understands the DMIRS will assess the Clearing Permit application in parallel with the
assessment of the Mining Proposal.
A brief description of each infrastructure component for the Project is provided below.
MINE PIT
The Mine Pit is expected to yield an estimated 3.9Mt of iron ore having a gross economic
value of approximately A$190million.
The Mine Pit will require an area of approximately 46ha, as identified by Figure 3.
Approximately 2ha (4%) of the 46ha area for the Mine Pit has previously been cleared
through approved mineral exploration under the Mining Act 1978 (WA), with the
remaining 44ha (96%) comprising native vegetation.
Consistent with the current mining practices used across Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations,
development of the Mine Pit will be undertaken by standard open-pit mining methods
(blasting, excavation) and using standard plant and equipment (excavators, loaders,
trucks). Development of the Mine Pit will be undertaken to an elevation of approximately
365mAHD.
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At mine closure, the Mine Pit will remain as an open mine void. The Mine Pit cannot be
rehabilitated as the consolidated rock substrate and the steep sides will not be conducive
to plant growth, with the steep sides also be prohibitive to safe rehabilitation practices.
WASTE ROCK LANDFORM
An estimated 16.5Mt of waste rock to be excavated from the Mine Pit will be disposed of
to the Waste Rock Landform, positioned adjacent to the Mine Pit.
The Waste Rock Landform will require an area of approximately 64ha, as identified by
Figure 3. Approximately 2ha (3%) of the 64ha area for the Waste Rock Landform has
previously been cleared through approved mineral exploration under the Mining
Act 1978 (WA), with the remaining 62ha (97%) comprising native vegetation.
The Waste Rock Landform will be developed to a design elevation of approximately
495mAHD. Progressively during mining and post-mining, the Waste Rock Landform will be
rehabilitated by on-contour ripping of compacted areas and the respreading of the
cleared rehabilitation materials (vegetation and topsoil/subsoil). The Waste Rock
Landform will incorporate an outer capping of topsoil/subsoil to provide a growth media
for the rehabilitation. The rehabilitation works will be undertaken to meet the
rehabilitation completion criteria consistent with Cliffs’ Mine Closure Plan (Cliffs 2015), to
be regulated by DMIRS under the Mining Act 1978 (WA).
The environmental effects of the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area can be
appropriately managed in accordance with Cliffs’ Flora and Vegetation Management Plan
(Cliffs 2016, Attachment 3). The Flora and Vegetation Management Plan is implemented across
Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations and outlines a range of environmental management actions to actively
control and manage the potential environmental effects to flora values, for aspects including
land clearing, surface water drainage, introduced flora, dust emissions, fire risk, saline water,
introduced fauna, education and training, and reporting. Cliffs proposes to implement the Flora
and Vegetation Management Plan to ensure the potential environmental effects of the clearing
of native vegetation within the Application Area are minimised and controlled to an acceptable
level.
All land disturbance is expected to be contained to within the Application Area through the
implementation of Cliffs’ standard mining controls (such as for land clearing, blasting). Whilst
noting this, there is an inherent low potential during mining (in particular during blasting or when
working on steep slopes) for limited material to move downslope into native vegetation adjacent
to the Application Area, the effect of which would unlikely be environmentally significant.
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DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
The clearing permit application must consist of: o Additional information, as appropriate (see Assessment Information Required, below)
To assist with the assessment of your clearing permit application in an expeditious manner, it is highly recommended that detailed information is submitted with the clearing permit application. DMP is required to assess applications for clearing permits against the 10 'clearing principles', as defined in Schedule 5 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986. The 'clearing principles' broadly relate to the potential impacts of clearing on biodiversity, land degradation, and ground and surface water quality. The level of information required will be determined by the complexity of the application to be assessed, in conjunction with the risk to the receiving environment associated with the proposed activity.
Factors include: o the size of the area to be assessed o the techniques used to clear o whether the area is of high biodiversity o the purpose for which the application is intended such as exploration, mining, development and infrastructure.
The Application Area covers a spatial area of approximately 110ha. The 110ha Application Area
comprises approximately 106ha of native vegetation and 4ha of cleared land.
Consistent with the current mining practices used at Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations, clearing of the
native vegetation will be undertaken by standard plant and equipment (excavators, loaders,
trucks). Rehabilitation materials (vegetation, topsoil/subsoil) cleared during mine development
(where safe to do so) will be temporarily stockpiled (‘paddock-dumped’) with the stockpile
heights up to nominally 3 metres. The rehabilitation materials will be used for progressive and
post-mining rehabilitation within areas of the mine operations.
The flora and fauna (biodiversity) values of the Application Area and surrounds are outlined within
the following environmental survey reports (in alphabetical order):
(1) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011a) Deception Deposit Vegetation and
Flora Survey. Report prepared by Maier M, Chukowry P and Anderson P of Biota
Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 11.
June 2011.
(2) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011b) Deception Deposit Vertebrate Fauna
Survey. Report prepared by Cartledge V (Dr), Cairnes J and Sachse T of Biota
Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 13.
March 2011.
(3) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011c) Deception Deposit Short Range
Endemic Invertebrate Fauna Survey. Report prepared by Watson N (Dr) and Teale R
of Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd.
Revision 7. March 2011.
(4) Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2013) Yilgarn Operations Deception Deposit Flora
and Vegetation Survey for the Realignment of the Deception Deposit Haul Road.
Report prepared by Wilkinson K (nee Greenacre) of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty
Ltd. Revision B. January 2013.
(5) Western Botanical (2009a) Flora and Vegetation Survey of a Polygon at Deception
Prospect for Future Drilling Programs, May 2009. Report prepared by Burgess S of
Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. September 2009.
(6) Western Botanical (2012a) Deception Deposit Options Assessment Flora and
Vegetation Survey. Report prepared by Eckermann B of Western Botanical for Cliffs
Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. March 2012.
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(7) Western Botanical (2012b) Deception Deposit Mine Area Flora and Vegetation
Survey. Report prepared by Warden J of Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 1. December 2012
Copies of the above environmental survey reports are provided on the compact disc within
Section 3 References.
Mapping identifying the recorded locations of flora and fauna values within the Application Area
and surrounds are provided in Figures 4 to 6.
An assessment of the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area using the
‘Principles for Clearing Native Vegetation’ from Schedule 5 of the Environmental Protection Act
1986 (WA) is outlined below:
(1) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises a high level of biological diversity.’
The flora values of the Application Area and surrounds are outlined within the
environmental survey reports of Biota (2011a), Cliffs (2013) and Western
Botanical (2009a, 2012a, 2012b).
The flora surveys in the vicinity of the Application Area and surrounds mapped 33
vegetation units comprising more than 300 native flora taxa (Biota 2011a).
The flora surveys included records for 4 DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora taxa
(DBCA 2017a). The flora surveys did not identify any flora taxa protected as ‘Rare
Flora’ under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (WA Minister for
Environment 2017a) or ‘Threatened Species’ of flora or listed under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C’th)
(DEE 2017a). None of the mapped vegetation units are of listed conservation
significance as a ‘Threatened Ecological Communities’ under the Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C’th) (DEE 2017b) or listed as
a DBCA-classified ‘priority’ ecological community (DBCA 2013, 2017b).
Of the recorded flora values, the Application Area coincides with records of:
(1) DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora taxon Banksia arborea (P4); and
(2) Vegetation units.
The Application Area coincides with records of the DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora
taxon Banksia arborea (P4), as identified by Figure 4, with this taxon contributing
toward the biological diversity of the vegetation units (as described below). The
DBCA (2017d) identifies Banksia arborea as having a linear distribution of
approximately 180km, extending from the Koolyanobbing Range in the south to
the Perrinvale Range in the north, with regional records including the Helena and
Aurora Range, Die Hardy Range, Mt Elvire, Mt Finnerty Range, Mt Jackson Range,
Mt Manning Range, Windarling Range and the Yorkadine Range (DBCA 2017d;
Western Botanical 2012c). Noting this broader distribution, the effect to this
taxon is not environmentally significant.
The Application Area coincides with the mapped area of 10 vegetation units, as
identified by Figure 5. Each vegetation unit has a recorded spatial distribution
beyond the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved mine operations. More than
half of the mapped vegetation units were considered by Biota (2011a) to be
equivalent to vegetation units previously recorded at the nearby Windarling
Range, positioned approximately 20km south of the Application Area. Noting
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their broader distributions, the effect to vegetation units is not environmentally
significant.
Within each vegetation unit occurs a variety of other native flora taxa which are
not of listed conservation significance due to their population sizes and broad
regional distributions, with these taxa contributing toward the biological diversity
of the vegetation units. In this context, the effect to other such flora taxa is not
environmentally significant.
In consideration of the above, the Application Area is not considered to
comprise a high level of biological diversity, but rather, have a level of
biodiversity consistent with the surrounding regional area. The clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area is therefore not considered at variance to
this principle.
(2) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises the whole or a part of, or is
necessary for the maintenance of, a significant habitat for fauna indigenous to Western
Australia.’
The terrestrial fauna values of the Application Area and surrounds are outlined
within the environmental survey reports of Biota (2012b, 2012c).
As identified by Figure 5, the fauna surveys in the vicinity of the Application Area
and surrounds recorded 1 fauna taxa declared as ‘Specially Protected Fauna’
under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (WA Minister for
Environment 2017b) (which is also classified as a ‘Threatened Species’ under
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C’th) as
per DEE 2017c) and 1 DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon (DBCA 2017c). The
fauna surveys also identified recorded/sampled locations of terrestrial potential
short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa; none of which are of listed
conservation significance.
Of the recorded flora values, the Application Area coincides with records of:
(1) DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4); and
(2) Potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa; and
(3) Fauna habitat.
The Application Area does not coincide with any recorded individuals of
‘Specially Protected Fauna’ taxa. Whilst a number of ‘Specially Protected Fauna’
have been recorded broadly across the region, and such taxa may potentially
utilise the Application Area as part of their broader nesting and/or foraging
habitat, the Application Area is not considered necessary or significant habitat
for the maintenance of such taxa.
The DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4) was recorded
by 2 opportunistic records within the Application Area. Whilst noting this, due to
the inconspicuous nature of its burrows, Aganippe castellum is undoubtedly more
abundant than the current opportunistic records would indicate, with a greater
number of individuals expected to occur both within and outside of the
Application Area. Aganippe castellum has a recorded linear distribution of
approximately 450km, extending from near Morawa (east of Geraldton) to the
south of Southern Cross (DBCA 2017e). Locally, Aganippe castellum has also
been recorded at the Die Hardy Range, Windarling Range, Mt Jackson Range,
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Helena and Aurora Range and the Koolyanobbing Range (Cliffs 2010a;
DBCA 2017e). As outlined by Biota (2011c), Aganippe castellum is not
considered to be a short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxon due to its
broad regional distribution. The removal of Aganippe castellum individuals and
habitat is likely to represent only a small proportion of the individuals and habitat
available to Aganippe castellum in the immediate vicinity of the Application
Area and surrounds, and across the broader region. As a result of its broad
distribution, the Application Area is not considered necessary or significant
habitat for the maintenance of this fauna taxon.
Fauna surveys for terrestrial potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna
taxa undertaken of the Application Area and surrounds recorded 26 putative
taxa, comprising mygalomorph spiders, millipedes and land snails (Biota 2011c).
None of the potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa recorded
are of listed conservation significance. As noted by Biota (2011c), a number of
the taxa have recorded distributions extending up to 110km from the Application
Area and surrounds. These recorded regional distributions indicate good
connectivity and distribution of suitable habitat for such taxa. Of the 26 taxa
recorded, the Application Area coincides with 7 taxa comprising mygalomorph
spiders and millipedes. All taxa recorded within the Application Area were also
recorded at locations beyond both the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved
mine operations. As a result of their broader distributions, the Application Area is
not considered necessary or significant habitat for the maintenance of this fauna
group.
Whilst the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will increase
in the spatial area of the Cliffs’ mine operations, this will represent only a small
proportion of the fauna habitat available at a local scale (as shown by the aerial
imagery in Figure 2) and across the broader region (as shown in Figure 1). Each
of the mapped vegetation units (as a surrogate for fauna habitat types)
coinciding with the Application Area has a recorded spatial distribution beyond
both the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved mine operations. In this context,
the Application Area is not considered to be significant habitat for fauna.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(3) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it includes, or is necessary for the continued
existence of, rare flora.’
The Application Area does not coincide with any records of ‘Rare Flora’ taxa
declared under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (Biota 2011a; WA
Minister for Environment 2017a). Accordingly, the Application Area is not
considered necessary for the continued existence of ‘Rare Flora’.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(4) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it comprises the whole or a part of, or is
necessary for the maintenance of, a threatened ecological community.’
The Application Area does not coincide with any ‘Threatened Ecological
Community’ listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
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Conservation Act 1999 (C’th) (Biota 2011a; DEE 2017b). Accordingly, the
Application Area is not considered necessary for the maintenance of a
‘Threatened Ecological Community’.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(5) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it is significant as a remnant of native vegetation
in an area that has been extensively cleared.’
The Application Area, and its surrounds, has not been extensively cleared of
native vegetation. Accordingly, the Application Area is not a significant remnant
of native vegetation.
The nearest area of extensive vegetation clearing is located
approximately 100km to the west and south of the Application Area, where land
has been cleared for agriculture (refer to the aerial imagery in Figure 1 for
agricultural clearing to the south).
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(6) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if it is growing in, or in association with, an
environment associated with a watercourse or wetland.’
The Application Area does not contain native vegetation that is within or
associated with a watercourse or wetland. The nearest surface water feature
(watercourse/wetland) is Lake Barlee located approximately 35km north of the
Application Area.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(7) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to cause
appreciable land degradation.’
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will be confined,
and undertaken using standard mine equipment and practices. Based on the
confined area and using this equipment, combined with Cliffs’ experience in
mine operations, appreciable land degradation is unlikely.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(8) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to have an
impact on the environmental values of any adjacent or nearby conservation area.’
The Application Area is not located within a conservation area. The Application
Area is located within Mining Lease M77/1259-I granted to Cliffs under the Mining
Act 1978 (WA), overlying Unallocated Crown Land vested with the Department
of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) under the Land Administration
Act 1997 (WA).
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The nearest conservation area is located approximately 10km east of the
Application Area, being the ‘Mount Manning - Helena and Aurora Ranges
Conservation Park’. As a result of the separation distance from this conservation
area, an effect to this conservation area from the clearing of native vegetation
within the Application Area is unlikely.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(9) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to cause
deterioration in the quality of surface or underground water.’
The Application Area does not contain any surface water, with the nearest
surface water feature being Lake Barlee located approximately 35km north of
the Application Area.
Groundwater is positioned at significant depth (>30m) below the Application
Area (Rockwater 2011), such that the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area will not have the potential to affect the groundwater resource.
Having regard to the separation distance to both to the surface water and the
groundwater, an effect to surface water quality or groundwater quality from the
clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area is unlikely.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
(10) ‘Native vegetation should not be cleared if the clearing of the vegetation is likely to cause, or
exacerbate, the incidence or intensity of flooding.’
The Application Area is located within a low rainfall area
(approximately 300mm/year) (BoM 2017), such that flooding within the
Application Area is unlikely. Having regard to the confined extent of the
Application Area and the low rainfall, the potential for the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area to cause or exacerbate the incidence or
intensity of flooding is considered unlikely.
In consideration of the above, the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not considered at variance to this principle.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o Aerial photographs and site photographs of the area proposed to be cleared.
Maps identifying the Application Area are provided in Figures 1 to 6. The mapping is overlain on
aerial photography and identifies the recorded environmental values of the Application Area and
surrounds.
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DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A Flora and vegetation survey. Detail should include:
Mapping of vegetation types/associations/communities, their condition, and their representation in a regional context. Photographs of each vegetation type to be cleared are also recommended;
Declared Rare and Priority Flora species present or likely to be present. Details should include the location/s and size of the population/s; the impact of the proposed clearing on the population/s; and the likely impact of the proposed clearing on the continued existence of the species.
The flora values of the Application Area and surrounds are outlined within the following
environmental survey reports:
(1) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011a) Deception Deposit Vegetation and
Flora Survey. Report prepared by Maier M, Chukowry P and Anderson P of Biota
Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 11.
June 2011.
(2) Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2013) Yilgarn Operations Deception Deposit Flora
and Vegetation Survey for the Realignment of the Deception Deposit Haul Road.
Report prepared by Wilkinson K (nee Greenacre) of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty
Ltd. Revision B. January 2013.
(3) Western Botanical (2009a) Flora and Vegetation Survey of a Polygon at Deception
Prospect for Future Drilling Programs, May 2009. Report prepared by Burgess S of
Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. September 2009.
(4) Western Botanical (2012a) Deception Deposit Options Assessment Flora and
Vegetation Survey. Report prepared by Eckermann B of Western Botanical for Cliffs
Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. March 2012.
(5) Western Botanical (2012b) Deception Deposit Mine Area Flora and Vegetation
Survey. Report prepared by Warden J of Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 1. December 2012
Copies of the above environmental survey reports are provided on the compact disc within
Section 3 References.
Figure 4 identifies the recorded locations of flora taxa of conservation significance within the
Application Area and surrounds. Figure 5 identifies the locations of mapped vegetation units
within the Application Area and surrounds.
Flora surveys of the Application Area and surrounds mapped 33 vegetation units comprising more
than 300 native flora taxa (Biota 2011a). The flora surveys identified 4 DBCA-classified ‘priority’
flora taxa (DBCA 2017a). The flora surveys did not identify any flora taxa protected as ‘Rare Flora’
under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (WA Minister for Environment 2017a) or ‘Threatened
Species’ of flora or listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
(C’th) (DEE 2017a). None of the mapped vegetation units are of listed conservation significance
as a ‘Threatened Ecological Communities’ under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (C’th) (DEE 2017b) or listed as a DBCA-classified ‘priority’ ecological
community (DBCA 2013, 2017b).
Of the recorded flora values, the Application Area coincides with records of:
o DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora taxon Banksia arborea (P4); and
o Vegetation units.
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An assessment of the potential environmental effect to flora values is provided below.
To note with regards to the interpretation of the results for flora taxa and vegetation units, as the
flora surveys have focused on the Application Area and surrounds (with conversely, a lesser focus
on areas beyond the Application Area and surrounds), the distribution mapping and population
counts for flora taxa and vegetation units bias towards a greater concentration and proportion
occurring within the Application Area and surrounds (with conversely, a lesser concentration and
proportion identified beyond of the Application Area and surrounds). This bias also arises for the
regional flora surveys that assist to provide contextual information as to their regional distributions.
Banksia arborea (P4) -
Banksia arborea, commonly known as Yilgarn Dryandra, is a tree or large shrub to 8m high
with yellow flowers occurring on ironstone hills on stony loam soils (DBCA 2014b cited in
Woodman 2014; Western Botanical 2012c). DBCA (2017d) identifies Banksia arborea as
having a linear distribution of approximately 180km, extending from the Koolyanobbing
Range in the south to the Perrinvale Range in the north. Banksia arborea has also been
recorded at the Helena and Aurora Range, Die Hardy Range, Mt Elvire, Mt Finnerty Range,
Mt Jackson Range, Mt Manning Range, Windarling Range and the Yorkadine Range
(Western Botanical 2012c; DBCA 2017d). Records held by Cliffs (unpublished data) identify
approximately 29,000 records of Banksia arborea within the broader region, of which
approximately 1,800 individuals have been approved for removal by Cliffs’ mine
operations.
As identified by Figure 4, a group of Banksia arborea were recorded within the Application
Area, comprising 7 individuals. All individuals of this group coincide with the Application
Area.
Table 1 identifies the number of Banksia arborea individuals coinciding with the
Application Area, as well as contextual information regarding its local and regional
distribution (as referred to above).
Whilst the whole group of 7 individuals of Banksia arborea will be removed, this group is not
expected to present any unique characteristics or values that are not otherwise
represented by the other nearby groups of Banksia arborea, including the nearest
recorded group (14 individuals) positioned approximately 4km north of Application Area
(Cliffs unpublished data). Clearing of the native vegetation within the Application Area is
therefore not expected to affect the representation, diversity, viability or ecological
function of the Banksia arborea taxon.
In consideration of the number of individuals of Banksia arborea coinciding with the
Application Area (7 individuals), and having regard to its distribution across the local area
and the broader region (29,000 individuals across multiple ranges), the effect to the
DBCA-classified ‘priority’ flora taxon Banksia arborea is not environmentally significant.
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Banksia arborea (P4)
Application Area 7
Approved Mine Operations 1,800
Regional Distribution ~29,000
Banksia arborea has a regional distribution of approximately
180km, with regional records including the Helena & Aurora
Range, Die Hardy Range, Mt Elvire, Perrinvale Range, Mt Finnerty
Range, Windarling Range, Mt Jackson Range, Koolyanobbing
Range, Yorkadine Range and north of the Mt Manning Range.
The nearest recorded local group of Banksia arborea is
positioned approximately 4km north of the Application Area,
comprising 14 individuals.
Table 1. Flora Taxa. The number of individuals of Banksia arborea (P4) recorded within the
Application Area, within Cliffs’ approved mine operations and across the broader region is
identified. The inset image identifies the regional distribution of Banksia arborea. Data source:
Biota (2011a), Cliffs unpublished data; Western Botanical (2009a). Image: adapted from
DBCA (2017d).
Vegetation Units -
The Application Area covers a spatial area of approximately 110ha, comprising 106ha of
native vegetation and 4ha of cleared land.
Flora surveys of the Application Area and surrounds mapped 33 vegetation units
comprising more than 300 native flora taxa (Biota 2011a). More than half of the mapped
vegetation units were considered by Biota (2011a) to be equivalent to vegetation units
previously recorded at the nearby Windarling Range, positioned approximately 20km
south of the Application Area.
None of the vegetation units have been listed as a ‘Threatened Ecological Community’
under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C’th)
(DEE 2017b) or listed as a DBCA-classified ‘priority’ ecological community (DBCA 2013,
2017b).
The Application Area coincides with 10 vegetation units, as identified by Figure 5 and
Table 2. Each vegetation unit has a recorded spatial distribution beyond the Application
Area and Cliffs’ approved mine operations. Noting this broader distribution, the effect to
vegetation units is not environmentally significant.
To note, as identified by Figure 5 and Table 2, the whole of the areas of Vegetation
Unit 1.06 (Banksia arborea tall shrubland) and Vegetation Unit 4.01 (Ptilotus obovatus var.
obovatus low shrubland) in the immediate vicinity of the Application Area and surrounds
will be removed. The recorded area of each vegetation unit to be cleared is small
(<1ha each) with their composition dominated by a single taxon (Banksia arborea as
assessed above, and Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus which is not of listed conservation
significance). Whilst removal of these vegetation units will affect their local distribution, as
outlined by Biota (2011a) and Western Botanical (2009b), Banksia arborea tall shrubland
has also been recorded across the Windarling Range and the Mt Jackson Range, and
Ptilotus obovatus low shrubland has also been recorded across the Windarling Range, Mt
Jackson Range, Die Hardy Range, Koolyanobbing Range, Helena and Aurora Ranges and
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the Mt Manning Range. In context with their broader regional distributions, the effect of
clearing these vegetation units is not environmentally significant.
In relation to the clearing of native vegetation more generally, the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area will increase in the spatial area of Cliffs’ approved
mine operations by 110ha; equating to approximately 4% of the 3,200ha area currently
authorised for Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations under the Mining Act 1978 (WA) (Cliffs 2017d,
2017e). Having regard to the area of the approved mine operations, and in context with
the broad extent of native vegetation both at a local scale (as shown in Figure 2) and
across the broader region (as shown in Figure 1), the effect to native vegetation is not
environmentally significant.
Within each vegetation unit occurs a variety of other native flora taxa which are not of
listed conservation significance due to their population sizes and broad regional
distributions. In this context, the effect to other such flora taxa within the vegetation units
is also not environmentally significant.
In consideration of the effect to flora taxa and vegetation units as outlined above, the clearing of
native vegetation within the Application Area is not expected to result in a significant effect to
flora values.
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Table 2. Vegetation Units. The Application Area coincides with 10 vegetation units. The area of each vegetation unit coinciding with the Application Area is identified.
The mapped extent of each vegetation unit recorded in the vicinity of the Application Area and surrounds is also identified, with notation also of additional regional
records. Note: (1) Errors may occur due to rounding. Data source: Biota (2011a), Western Botanical (2012a, 2012b).
VEGETATION UNIT MAPPED
EXTENT
(ha)
APPLICATION
AREA
(ha)
OTHER REGIONAL
RECORDS
1.01 Acacia cockertoniana, A. ramulosa var. ramulosa tall shrubland over Philotheca brucei
subsp. brucei, Eremophila clarkei, Dodonaea rigida open shrubland
92 20 Windarling Range
1.02 Acacia "aneura", A. ramulosa var. ramulosa tall shrubland 418 21 Windarling Range
1.03 Acacia sp. narrow phyllode, A. ramulosa var. ramulosa tall shrubland over Philotheca brucei
subsp. brucei open shrubland over Eremophila metallicorum low open shrubland
123 6 Windarling Range
1.05 Acacia cockertoniana, Melaleuca leiocarpa, Calycopeplus paucifolius tall shrubland over
Philotheca brucei subsp. brucei, Leucopogon sp. Clyde Hill shrubland
16 3 Windarling Range
1.06 Banksia arborea (Acacia cockertoniana, Eremophila clarkei) tall shrubland over Philotheca
brucei subsp. brucei shrubland over Olearia humilis scattered low shrubs
<1 <1 Windarling Range
2.01 Eucalyptus salubris and/or E. loxophleba subsp. lissophloia low open woodland over
Eremophila scoparia (Atriplex nummularia subsp. spathulata) scattered tall shrubs over A.
stipitata low open shrubland over Sclerolaena diacantha, S. fusiformis very open herbland
197 8 Windarling Range
2.02 Eucalyptus longissima, (E. corrugata) very open tree mallee over Acacia ramulosa var.
ramulosa tall open shrubland over Eremophila clarkei, E. decipiens subsp. decipiens,
Scaevola spinescens open shrubland over Olearia muelleri, Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus
low open shrubland
192 9 Windarling Range
2.05 Eucalyptus longissima, (E. corrugata) very open tree mallee over Acacia cockertoniana tall
shrubland over Eremophila clarkei, E. decipiens subsp. decipiens, Philotheca brucei subsp.
brucei open shrubland over Olearia humilis, Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus scattered low
shrubs
100 37 Windarling Range
2.06 Eucalyptus loxophleba subsp. lissophloia low open woodland over Acacia sp. narrow
phyllode, (A. ramulosa var. ramulosa, Eremophila caperata) tall shrubland over Olearia
muelleri, Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus low open shrubland
24 1 Windarling Range
4.01 Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus low shrubland over Enneapogon caerulescens scattered
grasses and Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, C. brownii very open herbland
<1 <1 Windarling, Mt Jackson,
Koolyanobbing,
Die Hardy, Helena &
Aurora and Mt Manning
- Cleared land - 4
Total 110(1)
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DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A fauna assessment. Detail should include:
the fauna present or likely to be present, and their conservation significance;
an assessment of the significance of the vegetation and landform to be cleared, as a habitat for fauna; including mapping of any significant fauna habitats.
The fauna values of the Application Area and surrounds are outlined within the following
environmental survey reports:
(1) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011b) Deception Deposit Vertebrate Fauna
Survey. Report prepared by Cartledge V (Dr), Cairnes J and Sachse T of Biota
Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 13.
March 2011.
(2) Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011c) Deception Deposit Short Range
Endemic Invertebrate Fauna Survey. Report prepared by Watson N (Dr) and Teale R
of Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd.
Revision 7. March 2011.
Copies of the above environmental survey reports are provided on the compact disc within
Section 3 References.
Figure 6 identifies the recorded locations of fauna taxa of conservation significance within the
Application Area and surrounds. Recorded/sampled locations of terrestrial potential short-range
endemic invertebrate fauna taxa (none of which are of listed conservation significance) are also
identified.
The fauna surveys recorded 1 fauna taxon declared as ‘Specially Protected Fauna’ under the
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) (WA Minister for Environment 2017b) (which is also classified
as a ‘Threatened Species’ under Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
(C’th) as per DEE 2017c) and 1 DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon (DBCA 2017c).
Of the recorded fauna values, the Application Area coincides with records of:
o DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4); and
o Potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa; and
o Fauna habitat.
An assessment of the potential environmental effect to fauna values is provided below.
To note with regards to the interpretation of the results for fauna taxa, as the fauna surveys have
focused on the Application Area and surrounds (with conversely, a lesser focus on areas beyond
the Application Area and surrounds), the distribution mapping for the fauna taxa bias towards a
greater concentration and proportion occurring within the Application Area and surrounds (with
conversely, a lesser concentration and proportion identified beyond of the Application Area and
surrounds). This bias also arises for the regional fauna surveys that assist to provide contextual
information as to their regional distributions.
Aganippe castellum (P4) -
Aganippe castellum, commonly known as the Tree-stem Trapdoor Spider, is a medium-
sized trapdoor spider which builds its nest in the ground with an aerial, webbed tube
extending up against the base of a tree or shrub. Clusters of twig lines from the aerial tube
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drape to the ground and surround the nest, with the twig lines directing foraging prey
(mainly ants) past the opening of the nest (Main 1983 and 1986 both cited in Russell 2008).
Aganippe castellum has a recorded linear distribution of approximately 450km, extending
from near Morawa (east of Geraldton) to the south of Southern Cross (DBCA 2017e).
Locally, Aganippe castellum has been recorded at the Die Hardy Range, Windarling
Range, Mt Jackson Range, Helena and Aurora Range and the Koolyanobbing Range
(Cliffs 2010a; DBCA 2017e). As outlined by Biota (2011c), Aganippe castellum is not
considered to be a short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxon due to its broad
regional distribution.
Based on the recorded species density and interpretation of potential habitat the
regional population of Aganippe castellum has been estimated at >240,000 individuals
(Cliffs 2010a). This regional population estimate is considered to be highly conservative as
it includes only the surveyed areas of the Mt Jackson Range and the southern
Koolyanobbing Range, with the recorded Aganippe castellum populations at all other
locations (as identified above) yet to be estimated. The number of individuals of
Aganippe castellum authorised to be removed from across Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations has
not been estimated, however, for Cliffs’ Mt Jackson Range mine operations it was
previously estimated that approximately 12,000 individuals could be affected
(Cliffs 2010b).
Aganippe castellum was recorded by 2 opportunistic records within the Application Area.
Whilst noting this, due to the inconspicuous nature of its burrows, Aganippe castellum is
undoubtedly more abundant than the current opportunistic records would indicate, with
a greater number of individuals expected to occur both within and outside of the
Application Area. As such, whilst the Application Area coincides with only 2 records of
Aganippe castellum, it is likely the direct effect to Aganippe castellum individuals will be
greater than the current opportunistic records indicate, and similarly likely this taxon also
occurs in greater numbers across habitat beyond the Application Area. As an indicative
guide, to use the recorded Aganippe castellum burrow densities from the Mt Jackson
Range, Koolyanobbing Range and the Helena and Aurora Ranges of between 65 to 79
burrows per hectare (as identified in Cliffs 2010a), the number of individuals within the
Application Area could be in the order of up to between 7,000 to 9,000 individuals, and
equally, the total population beyond the Application Area could be expected to be
several times larger than that estimate based on the broad extent of the available
habitat.
Table 5-3 identifies the recorded number of Aganippe castellum individuals coinciding
with the Application Area, as well as contextual information regarding its distribution and
conservatively estimated population size.
The removal of Aganippe castellum individuals and habitat within the Application Area is
likely to represent only a small proportion of the individuals and the habitat available to
Aganippe castellum in the vicinity of the Application Area and surrounds, and across the
broader region. In consideration of the number of individuals of Aganippe castellum
estimated within the Application Area (up to ~9,000 individuals), the effect of Cliffs’
approved mine operations (>12,000 individuals) and having regard to its regional
distribution and population size (conservatively >240,000 individuals across multiple
ranges), the effect to the DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum is not
environmentally significant.
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Aganippe castellum (P4)
Application Area 2 (up to ~9,000 est.)
Approved Mine Operations >12,000 (est.)
Regional Distribution >240,000 (est.)
Aganippe castellum has a regional distribution of
approximately 450km, extending from near Morawa (east of
Geraldton) to the south of Southern Cross with local records
including the Helena & Aurora Range, Die Hardy Range,
Windarling Range, Mt Jackson Range, Johnston Range and the
Koolyanobbing Range.
Aganippe castellum is undoubtedly more abundant than the
current opportunistic records would indicate, with a greater
number of individuals expected to occur both within and
outside of the Application Area.
Table 5-3. Fauna Taxa. The Application Area coincides with records of 2 individuals of the
DBCA-classified ‘priority’ fauna taxon Aganippe castellum (P4), however, this taxon is undoubtedly
more abundant that than the current opportunistic records would indicate. The number of
individuals of Aganippe castellum recorded/estimated within the Application Area, within Cliffs’
approved mine operations and across the broader region is identified. The inset image identifies
the regional distribution of Aganippe castellum. Data source: Cliffs (2010a, 2010b) Image: adapted
from DBCA (2017e).
Potential Short-range Endemic Invertebrate Fauna Taxa -
Fauna surveys for terrestrial potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa
undertaken of the Application Area and surrounds recorded 26 putative taxa, comprising
mygalomorph spiders, millipedes and land snails (Biota 2011c). None of the potential
short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa recorded are of listed conservation
significance.
As noted by Biota (2011c), a number of the taxa have recorded distributions extending up
to 110km from the Application Area and surrounds, with the regional records including
Pigeon Rocks (10km south), Die Hardy Ranges (10km south-east), Windarling Range (20km
south), Mt Jackson Range (40km south-south-west), and the Koolyanobbing Range
(110km south-south-east). These recorded regional distributions indicate good
connectivity and distribution of suitable habitat for such taxa.
Of the 26 taxa recorded, the Application Area coincides with 7 taxa comprising
mygalomorph spiders and millipedes. All taxa recorded within the Application Area were
also recorded at locations beyond both the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved mine
operations.
To note, the survey location records for potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna
taxa reflect the field sampling locations rather than the actual spatial distribution of each
taxon. Based on the vegetation units from within which each taxon was recorded (as a
surrogate for habitat), each taxon undoubtedly has a broader distribution than the point
location survey records indicate, both within and beyond the Application Area, and
within and beyond Cliffs’ approved mine operations.
In consideration that all taxa recorded within the Application Area were also recorded at
locations beyond both the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved mine operations, the
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effect to potential short-range endemic invertebrate fauna taxa is not environmentally
significant.
Fauna Habitat -
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will increase in the spatial
area of the Cliffs’ mine operations by 110ha; equating to approximately 4% of the 3,200ha
area currently authorised for Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations under the Mining Act 1978 (WA)
(Cliffs 2017d, 2017e). Having regard to the area of Cliffs’ approved mine operations, and
in context with the broad extent of potential fauna habitat both at a local scale (as
shown by the aerial imagery in Figure 2) and across the broader region (as shown in
Figure 1), the effect to fauna habitat is not environmentally significant.
As identified above, each of the mapped vegetation units (as a surrogate for fauna
habitat types) coinciding with the Application Area has a recorded spatial distribution
beyond both the Application Area and Cliffs’ approved mine operations. Noting this
broader distribution, the effect to the types of habitats available for fauna is not
environmentally significant.
Within the fauna habitat occurs a variety of other native fauna taxa which are not of
listed conservation significance due to their population sizes and broad regional
distributions. In this context, the effect to other fauna taxa is not expected to be
environmentally significant.
As identified above, the Application Area does not coincide with any recorded
individuals of ‘Specially Protected Fauna’ taxa. Whilst a number of ‘Specially Protected
Fauna’ have been recorded broadly across the region, and such taxa may potentially
utilise the Application Area as part of their broader nesting and/or foraging habitat, the
Application Area is not considered necessary or significant habitat for the maintenance of
such taxa.
In consideration of the effect to fauna taxa and fauna habitat as outlined above, the clearing of
native vegetation within the Application Area is not expected to result in a significant effect to
fauna values.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A Site overview, with a brief description of topography, landforms, soils and hydrology.
An assessment of the topography, landforms, soils and hydrology for the Application Area and
surrounds is provided below:
(1) Topography
The land topography within the Application Area is gently undulating, presenting
as a low rise with elevations between approximately 470mAHD and 505mAHD.
Surrounding the Application Area are extensive plains of varying elevation,
interspersed with a number of large elevated ironstone ridges (the nearest being
the Die Hardy Ranges to 640mAHD, positioned approximately 10km south-east)
and low-lying salt lakes (the nearest being Lake Barlee approximately 35km
north).
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In consideration of the low-elevation positioning and the confined extent of the
Application Area, the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area is
not expected to result in a significant effect to land topography.
(2) Landforms
The Application Area is gently undulating, presenting as a low rise. To date, part
of the surface of the landform within the Application Area has been modified
through land clearing for approved mineral exploration works. The clearing of
native vegetation within the Application Area will further modify the landform.
The characteristics of the landform (e.g. soils, vegetation) are considered to be
well represented beyond the Application Area.
Surrounding the Application Area are extensive plains of varying elevation,
interspersed with a number of large elevated ironstone ridges and low-lying salt
lakes.
In consideration of the low-elevation positioning, the confined extent of the
Application Area, as well as its separation from the prominent landforms (large
ironstone ridges and salt lakes), the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is not expected to result in a significant effect to landform
values.
(3) Soils
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will disturb land
areas containing soils and soil profiles.
Investigations of the soils at the adjacent Deception Deposit (SWC 2011)
identified 3 soil units described as ‘skeletal soils over ironstone’, ‘shallow gravely
soils over laterite’ and ‘shallow-deep sandy loam over laterite’, with the
delineation of these areas reflecting the landforms/topography. Generally, the
soils were classified as being non-saline, non-sodic, having high coarse rock
fragment content, of low nutrient and organic carbon content, and naturally
acidic due to the abundance of iron oxides. The SWC (2011) assessment outlined
that the ‘skeletal soils over ironstone’ and ‘shallow gravely soils over laterite’ had
properties that were suitable for use in mine rehabilitation works. The
‘shallow-deep sandy loam over laterite’ soils were not considered suitable for
surface use in mine rehabilitation works due to their potentially dispersive nature,
however could be used in the form of subsoil (with an outer capping of the other
materials).
Whilst the soils of the Application Area have not been subject to detailed
assessment, it is expected the soils of the Application Area are similar to the
general soil types identified by SWC (2011) due to their formation through the
same geological process.
Consistent with Cliffs’ current mining practices, recoverable topsoil/subsoil
materials from within the Application Area will be removed and temporarily
stockpiled for subsequent use in progressive and post-mining rehabilitation works.
In consideration of the nature of the soils recorded, the management actions
proposed and the confined extent of the Application Area, the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area is not expected to result in a significant
effect to soils.
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(4) Hydrology
The Application Area does not contain any surface water, with the nearest
surface water feature being Lake Barlee located approximately 35km north of
the Application Area.
Groundwater is positioned at significant depth (>30m) below the Application
Area (Rockwater 2011), such that the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area will not have the potential to affect the groundwater resource.
In consideration of the separation distance to both to the surface water and the
groundwater, and the confined extent of the Application Area, the clearing of
native vegetation within the Application Area is not expected to result in a
significant effect to hydrology.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A summary and/or map of the proposed developments on the site.
A map identifying the location and area of the Application Area are provided in Figure 2.
Follow the clearing of the native vegetation within the Application Area, the Project will involve
the development of Mine Pit and Waste Rock Landform infrastructure components, as described
above and identified in Figure 3.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A hydrological summary, which includes discussion of the likelihood of impact from the clearing on riparian
vegetation, wetlands, watercourses, surface water or groundwater.
An assessment of the potential for an effect to riparian vegetation, wetlands, watercourses,
surface water and groundwater from the clearing of native vegetation within the Application
Area is provided below:
(1) Riparian vegetation
No riparian vegetation occurs within the Application Area.
The nearest surface water feature (which may contain riparian vegetation) is
Lake Barlee located approximately 35km north of the Application Area.
Accordingly, no effect to riparian vegetation can be expected from the clearing
of native vegetation within the Application Area.
(2) Wetlands
No wetlands occur within the Application Area.
The nearest surface water feature is Lake Barlee located approximately 35km
north of the Application Area.
Accordingly, no effect to wetlands is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
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(3) Watercourses
No watercourses occur within the Application Area.
The nearest surface water feature is Lake Barlee located approximately 35km
north of the Application Area.
Accordingly, no effect to watercourses is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
(4) Surface Water
No surface water occurs within the Application Area
The nearest surface water feature is Lake Barlee located approximately 35km
north of the Application Area.
The Application Area is located within a low rainfall area (approximately
300mm/year) (BoM 2017), and accordingly, surface water following rainfall is
limited.
Accordingly, no effect to surface water is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
(5) Groundwater
Groundwater is positioned at significant depth (>30m) below the Application
Area (Rockwater 2011).
Accordingly, no effect to groundwater is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A vegetation degradation summary, which includes discussion of the likelihood of the spread of dieback disease
and/or weeds.
An assessment of the potential for an effect from the spread of dieback disease (Phytophthora
cinnamomi) and weeds from the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area is
provided below:
(1) Dieback
The Application Area is not located within an area of sufficient annual rainfall to
be susceptible to Phytophthora cinnamomi. Phytophthora cinnamomi is
generally restricted to areas receiving >400mm/year of rainfall (Dieback Working
Group 2008). The Application Area is located beyond the >400mm/year rainfall
area, receiving approximately 300mm/year (BoM 2017). Phytophthora
cinnamomi has not previously been recorded within the Application Area or
surrounds.
Accordingly, no effect from Phytophthora cinnamomi is expected from the
clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area.
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(2) Weeds
Flora surveys of the Application Area and surrounds recorded 2 introduced flora
taxa, being Pentameris airoides ssp. airoides (recorded by its former name of
Pentaschistis airoides ssp. airoides) and Centaurea melitensis (Maltese cockspur)
(Biota 2011a). The Application Area coincides with a single record of Pentameris
airoides ssp. airoides.
Both Pentameris airoides ssp. airoides and Centaurea melitensis are well
distributed across the southern half of Western Australia (DBCA 2017a). Neither
taxa are Declared Pests under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management
Act 2007 (WA) or listed as a Weed of National Significance (Australian Weeds
Committee 2012).
Introduced flora within the Application Area can be effectively managed
through standard mine hygiene procedures, which includes the control of vehicle
and personnel movements within weed-infested areas, and the spraying of
weed-infested areas.
In consideration of the introduced flora taxa recorded, the implementation of
standard mine hygiene procedures and the confined extent of the Application
Area, the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area is not
expected to result in a significant effect to introduced flora.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A land degradation summary, which includes discussion of the likelihood of land degradation, including
waterlogging, acidification, salinisation, deep subsoil compaction and erosion.
An assessment the potential for land degradation from waterlogging, acidification, salinisation,
deep subsoil compaction and erosion from the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area is provided below:
(1) Waterlogging
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will not involve the
inundation of land with water or the discharge of water which could result in
waterlogging.
Accordingly, no effect from waterlogging is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
(2) Acidification
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area will not involve
excavations which could expose rock materials that may be acid forming.
Accordingly, no effect from acidification is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
(3) Salinisation
The Application Area is located at significant elevation (>30m) above the
groundwater level (Rockwater 2011), such that the clearing of the vegetation is
not expected to result in a subsequent rise in the groundwater table that could
lead to salinisation.
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Accordingly, no effect from salinisation is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
(4) Deep subsoil compaction
The Application Area does not contain deep subsoils. The soils of the application
area comprise limited topsoil/subsoil overlying consolidated rock.
Accordingly, no effect from deep subsoil compaction is expected from the
clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area.
(5) Erosion
The Application Area is located in an area of low annual rainfall (300mm/y)
(BoM 2017), with limited topsoil/subsoil which could be mobilised. Previous
assessments of the soils in the area (SWC 2011) identified the surficial soils as
generally being non-sodic (i.e. not dispersive) and having high coarse rock
fragment; with similar soil characteristics expected for the soils across most of the
Application Area.
Accordingly, no effect from erosion is expected from the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o An outline of environmental management measures and rehabilitation practices that will be undertaken during
and subsequent to the completion of the project. Existing Management Plans and Mining Proposals should be submitted, if they are relevant to the clearing proposal.
Cliffs’ mine operations are undertaken in accordance with an Environmental Policy (Cliffs Natural
Resources 2017, Attachment 1), which outlines Cliffs’ overarching objectives for environmental
protection and continual improvement in environmental performance. The Environmental Policy
is implemented through Cliffs’ international standard AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004-certified EMS
(SGS 2015, Attachment 2), which includes Environmental Management Plans for the
management of key environmental aspects.
Cliffs considers the potential environmental effects of the clearing of native vegetation within the
Application Area can be appropriately managed in accordance with the standard
environmental management actions for land clearing contained in:
(1) Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2016) Yilgarn Operations - Flora and Vegetation
Management Plan. Report prepared by Howard R (Dr) for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Pty Ltd. Revision G. June 2016.
A copy of the Flora and Vegetation Management Plan is provided at Attachment 3.
The Flora and Vegetation Management Plan is implemented across Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations.
The Flora and Vegetation Management Plan outlines a range of environmental management
actions to actively control and manage the potential environmental effects to flora values, which
in relation to land clearing and land management includes:
o Implementation of management actions for avoiding and/or minimising the
environmental effects to flora values of:
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o Land clearing, by:
o A Site Disturbance Permit process to control land clearing to within
authorised areas;
o Surface water drainage, by:
o Mine planning of surface water drainage through containment and
control measures (e.g. sumps, culverts, table drains) to control surface
water flows which may affect flora values;
o Daily inspection of saline water equipment (pipelines and water carts)
to minimise the risk of inadvertent water flow to areas containing flora
values;
o Introduced flora, by;
o Weed monitoring and weed control (spraying) to manage introduced
flora taxa which may affect flora values;
o Dust generation, by:
o Dampening of cleared areas using groundwater to minimise the
potential for dust generation which may affect flora values;
o Fire, by:
o Fire control equipment (fire extinguishers) within mine vehicles for the
control of any small fires which may affect flora values;
o Installation of fire breaks at selected locations between mine
infrastructure and flora taxa of listed conservation significance;
o Introduced fauna, by:
o Control of introduced fauna (trapping and culling) which may
potentially disturb flora taxa of listed conservation significance;
o Education and training of mine personnel on the flora values present and flora
management, including:
o Site inductions which include identification of the flora values present, with
a particular focus on ‘Rare Flora’;
o An incident reporting system to identify and communicate any inadvertent
environmental effects to flora values; and
o Reporting on the implementation of the Flora and Vegetation Management Plan.
The clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area is not expected to result in a
significant environmental effect. Cliffs proposes to implement the Flora and Vegetation
Management Plan to ensure the potential environmental effects of the clearing of native
vegetation within the Application Area are minimised and controlled to an acceptable level.
Following the clearing of the native vegetation within the Application Area, mine operations for
the Project are proposed to be undertaken. Progressively during the mine operations and post-
mining, Cliffs will seek to restore the flora values through rehabilitation works consistent with the
approach outlined within Cliffs’ Mine Closure Plan (Cliffs 2015). As outlined by the Mine Closure
Plan, Cliffs’ broad mine closure objectives are to decommission mine infrastructure, rehabilitate
disturbed areas with native vegetation, and to ensure the land and landforms are safe, stable
and non-polluting to enable a post-mining land use. The rehabilitation works will be undertaken to
meet specified rehabilitation completion criteria, with the implementation of the Mine Closure
Plan to be regulated by DMIRS under the Mining Act 1978 (WA).
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DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o Copies of any correspondence with DPaW or other Government Agencies regarding the proposal.
Stakeholder consultation is an integral component of Cliffs’ planning, assessment and
development processes. During the planning and assessment for the Project undertaken to date,
Cliffs has undertaken consultation with a range of key stakeholders from both Government and
community sectors.
A summary of the consultations undertaken for the Project is provided below. The consultations
were undertaken in the form of meetings, telephone discussions and/or written correspondence,
during which Cliffs identified the Project, studies and investigations undertaken, anticipated
environmental effects, and the proposed environmental management approach.
Whilst the stakeholder views have not resulted in any changes to the Project, the stakeholder
views have informed the type and detail of the assessment information presented within this
Supporting Information document.
Consultation during implementation of the Project will be ongoing with DMIRS through the annual
reporting provisions and site inspections relevant to the Clearing Permit, and the associated
Mining Proposal (Cliffs 2017c) under the Mining Act 1978 (WA). Ongoing consultation with the
community during implementation of the Project will be undertaken through the existing
framework of Cliffs’ Community Consultation Group.
GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION
DEPARTMENT OF MINES, INDUSTRY REGULATION AND SAFETY
The Project will be subject to environmental and mining assessments by DMIRS of a
Clearing Permit application (Cliffs 2017a) under s51E of the Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (WA) and a Mining Proposal under s82A(2) of the Mining Act 1978 (WA)
(Cliffs 2017c). Accordingly, DMIRS is a stakeholder for the Project.
In April 2017, a meeting was held with representatives for DMIRS (J Allen, L Stirbinskis) and
Cliffs (T Benson, S Hawkins) to discuss the Project. This consultation included identification
of the conceptual infrastructure components and location, potential environmental
effects, mine closure, and proposed assessment by DMIRS under the Mining Act 1978
(WA). The DMIRS did not identify any significant environmental concerns in relation to the
Project, and noted Cliffs’ proposed approach to utilise existing information for the
adjacent mine operations as a surrogate where appropriate.
To note, consultation with DMIRS initially indicated assessment of the Project under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) would occur through a separate Government
agency and process, however, since that consultation it has been identified the
appropriate assessment pathway under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) is for
the submission of a Clearing Permit application to be assessed by DMIRS.
Submission of the Clearing Permit application and the associated Mining Proposal,
including their subsequent assessment by DMIRS, represents further consultation between
Cliffs and DMIRS on the Project.
As an outcome of the assessment and approvals processes under the Environmental
Protection Act 1986 (WA) and the Mining Act 1978 (WA), further consultation between
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Cliffs and DMIRS during Project implementation is expected to continue through annual
compliance reporting and site inspections.
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION
Cliffs has been granted Groundwater Licence GWL154459 (DWER 2014) and Licence
CAW183476 (DWER 2016) by the Department of Water and Environmental
Regulation (DWER) in accordance with s5C and s26D of the Rights in Water and Irrigation
Act 1914 (WA). The Project will also be subject to a Works Approval and a Licence
regulated by DWER under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) for groundwater
dewatering. Accordingly, DWER is a stakeholder for the Project.
In June 2017, a meeting was held with representatives for DWER (T Gentle) and Cliffs
(N Smith) to discuss the Project, as an extension to the approved mine operations. This
consultation included identification of the conceptual infrastructure components and
location, and the requirement for a Works Approval and Licence. During this consultation
DWER did not identify any significant environmental concerns in relation to the Project.
In July 2017, a further meeting was held with representatives for the DWER (T Gentle) and
Cliffs (N Smith, SHawkins) to discuss the assessment processes and assessment schedule for
the Works Approval and Licence required for the Project.
Submission of the Works Approval and Licence applications, including their subsequent
assessment by DWER, will represent further consultation between Cliffs and DWER on the
Project.
To note, consultation with DWER has not been necessary in relation to Groundwater
Licence GWL154459 or Licence CAW183476 as these approvals currently allow for
groundwater well construction and groundwater abstraction within Mining
Lease M77/1259-I within which the Project is situated, and further, the Project is not
expected to result in a significant effect to the groundwater resource. Cliffs can
implement the Project in accordance with the previously granted Groundwater Licence
GWL154459 and Licence CAW183476.
Further consultation between Cliffs and DWER during Project implementation is expected
to occur through annual compliance reporting and site inspections in accordance with
the Licence under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA), and the Groundwater
Licence GWL154459 and Licence CAW183476 approvals under the Rights in Water and
Irrigation Act 1914 (WA).
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, LANDS AND HERITAGE
The Project is located within Mining Lease M77/1259-I granted to Cliffs under the Mining
Act 1978 (WA), which overlies Unallocated Crown Land under the Land Administration
Act 1997 (WA) vested with DPLH. The Project also coincides with a ‘Registered’ Aboriginal
heritage site under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA) regulated by DPLH, and Cliffs
will be required to make an application for s18 Consent to enable this site to be disturbed
by the Project. Accordingly, DPLH is a stakeholder for the Project.
In February 2016, Cliffs consulted DPLH to seek comment on various operational extensions
to its Yilgarn Operations coinciding with Unallocated Crown Land (however noting that
consultation did not specifically include the Project). In April 2016, DPLH (C Ziatas) advised
of no comment or objection to various operational extensions proposed by Cliffs within
Unallocated Crown Land as such mine operations could be appropriately managed by
DMIRS under the Mining Act 1978 (WA). As this Project is consistent with the types of
operational extensions previously discussed between Cliffs and DPLH, consultation with
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DPLH regarding the Project coinciding with Unallocated Crown Land under the Land
Administration Act 1997 (WA) is not necessary.
In March 2017, a meeting was held with representatives for the DPLH (T Butler) and Cliffs
(V Roberts, K Halford, R O’Connor) to discuss the Project and the potential effects to
Aboriginal heritage matters under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA). This
consultation included identification of the Project location and the proposed disturbance
to ‘other heritage place’ record Site ID 27027 ‘Deception 1’ (DPLH 2017a, 2017b, 2017c).
The DPLH identified the assessment processes of the DPLH and the Aboriginal Cultural
Materials Committee under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA) to determine the status
of the Site ID 27027 record.
In March 2017, Cliffs submitted an application under s16 of the Aboriginal Heritage
Act 1972 (WA) to DPLH to undertake archaeological investigations of Site ID 27027 in order
to provide additional information on the Aboriginal heritage value of the record. In
July 2017, a Section 16 Permit was issued to Cliffs by the Registrar of Aboriginal Heritage
Sites of DPLH for the archaeological investigations. Concurrently with the granting of
the s16 Permit approval, Site ID 27027 was ‘Registered’ as an Aboriginal heritage site
pursuant to s5 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA) (DPLH 2017d, 2017e, 2017f).
Following the proposed archaeological investigations, Cliffs will submit an application to
the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs for a Section 18 Consent under the Aboriginal Heritage
Act 1972 (WA) to authorise the disturbance of Site ID 27027, with the DPLH to review and
provide advice to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs on the application. Submission of the
s18 Consent application, including its subsequent assessment by DPLH, will represent
further consultation between Cliffs and DPLH on the Project.
As an outcome of the assessment and approvals processes under the Aboriginal Heritage
Act 1972 (WA), further consultation between Cliffs and DPLH during Project
implementation is expected to continue through annual compliance reporting and site
inspections.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AUTHORITY
Whilst the Project does not require statutory approval from the Environmental Protection
Authority (EPA), Cliffs has consulted EPA (through the EPA Services unit of DWER (formerly
known as the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority)) on the Project in relation
to the environmental assessment processes under the Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (WA) and in relation to the effect to the recorded environmental values.
In May 2017, representatives for Cliffs (S Hawkins) requested a meeting through
representatives for EPA (F Browne, C Pengelly, M Jefferies) to discuss the Project. This
request was accompanied by information on the Project including identification of the
conceptual infrastructure components and location, potential environmental effects,
mine closure, and proposed assessment processes.
In July 2017, representatives for EPA (M Jefferies) advised that it had considered the
potential effects of the Project, and advised its view on the assessment pathway and
processes of the EPA under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA). Cliffs
subsequently advised EPA that assessment and approval of the Project under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) would be sought through a Clearing Permit
application and assessment process under s51E through DMIRS, such that an assessment
process through EPA through other provisions of the Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (WA) would not be necessary.
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Consultation between Cliffs and EPA during Project implementation is not expected to
occur in a formal capacity (due to the absence of any statutory approval regulated by
EPA for the Project), however, it is noted that consultation between Cliffs and EPA will
continue to occur through the existing statutory approvals regulated by EPA under the
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) for other components of Cliffs’ Yilgarn
Operations.
DEPARTMENT OF BIODIVERSITY, CONSERVATION AND ATTRACTIONS
Whilst the Project does not require statutory approval from DBCA, Cliffs has
consulted DBCA on the Project in relation to its general interest in the conservation of flora
and fauna values.
In June 2017, email correspondence with representatives for DBCA (S Thomas, M Baker,
D Pickles) and Cliffs (V Roberts, N Smith, S Hawkins) included identification of the location
of the Project and its conceptual infrastructure components, potential environmental
effects, mine closure, and proposed assessments under the Mining Act 1978 (WA) and the
Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA). During this consultation DBCA did not identify
any significant environmental concerns in relation to the Project.
Further consultation between Cliffs and DBCA during Project implementation is expected
to occur through the established communication arrangements associated with Cliffs’
Yilgarn Operations.
SHIRE OF MENZIES
Whilst the Project does not require statutory approval from the Shire of Menzies, Cliffs has
consulted the Shire of Menzies on the Project in relation to its general interest in activities
occurring within the Shire boundaries.
In July 2017, a telephone discussion and email correspondence with representatives for
the Shire of Menzies (D Hadden) and Cliffs (S Hawkins) included identification of the
location of the Project and its conceptual infrastructure components, and of Cliffs’
proposed schedule for mine development. Also discussed was the location, infrastructure
components and proposed mining schedule for the adjacent Deception Deposit mine
operations, which includes a wastewater treatment plant which will require the approval
of the Shire of Menzies under the Health Act 1911 (WA) (note that approval applies to the
Deception Deposit mine operations only). During this consultation the Shire of Menzies did
not identify any significant concern in relation to the Project.
Consultation between Cliffs and the Shire of Menzies during Project implementation is not
expected to occur in a formal capacity (due to the absence of any statutory approval
regulated by the Shire of Menzies for the Project), however, it is noted that consultation
between Cliffs and the Shire of Menzies will continue to occur through the approval for
the Deception Deposit wastewater treatment plant regulated by the Shire of Menzies
under the Health Act 1911 (WA), and for other similar approvals applying to other
components of Cliffs’ Yilgarn Operations.
DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
Consultation has not been undertaken with DEE as the Project will not result in a significant
effect to any matter of national environmental significance protected under the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (C’th) (DEE 2017a, 2017b,
2017c, 2017d).
Accordingly, consultation with DEE on the Project is not necessary.
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COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
COMMUNITY CONSULTATION GROUP
Cliffs maintains a Community Consultation Group (CCG) to provide review and comment
on the environmental aspects of its Yilgarn Operations. The CCG was established in 2004
and includes representatives of:
(a) Shire of Yilgarn;
(b) Wildflower Society of Western Australia;
(c) Yilgarn Land Conservation District Committee;
(d) Windarling Preservation Group;
(e) Toodyay Naturalists Club;
(f) Pastoral representatives; and
(g) Community representatives.
The membership of the CCG was previously determined by the WA Minister for
Environment based on submissions of interest from environmental and community
stakeholders. Accordingly, the CCG represents the key community stakeholders with an
interest in Cliffs’ mine operations and its environmental effects.
The potential for mine development at the Claw Deposit was raised with the CCG at its
meeting in September 2016, however at that time no details of the mine infrastructure or
its environmental effects were available. Noting the CCG meets annually in September
each year and the timing of the Clearing Permit application, Cliffs has not since had the
opportunity to discuss the Project with the CCG.
Whilst noting the above, most of the environmental surveys outlined within this Supporting
Information document (i.e. Biota 2011a, 2011b, 2011c; Rockwater 2011; SWC 2011;
Western Botanical 2009a, 2012a, 2012b) were previously made available to the CCG for
review during 2011/2012 as part of the approval and assessment processes for the
adjacent Deception Deposit mine operations, and as such, the CCG have previously
been made aware of the environmental values in the vicinity of the Project and surrounds.
Cliffs proposes to present the Project at the next CCG meeting scheduled for
September 2017.
Consultation between Cliffs and the CCG is expected to continue during Project
implementation through the annual meetings of the CCG.
GENERAL COMMUNITY
As Cliffs’ key community stakeholders are represented on the CCG, and noting the
confined spatial extent of the Project, extensive general community consultation on the
Project (e.g. public meetings) is not necessary.
DMIRS (2016) Guidance:
Standard information recommended for the assessment of the application includes: o A statement against each of the 10 ‘clearing principles’.
An assessment of the clearing of native vegetation within the Application Area using the
‘Principles for Clearing Native Vegetation’ from Schedule 5 of the Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (WA) is outlined above.
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2 Study Team
Development of this document has involved a range of supporting consultants. The key
consultants and their contributions are acknowledged and appreciated by Cliffs.
Globe Environments Australia Pty Ltd
www.GlobeEnvironments.com.au
o Project Management
o Environmental Assessment
Biota Environmental Sciences
www.Biota.net.au
o Flora and Vegetation Survey
o Vertebrate Fauna Survey
o Invertebrate Fauna Survey
Rockwater Pty Ltd
www.Rockwater.com.au
o Groundwater Assessment
Soil Water Consultants
www.SoilWaterGroup.com.au
o Soil Characterisation
Western Botanical
www.WesternBotanical.com.au
o Flora and Vegetation Survey
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CAD Resources
www.CADResources.com.au
o Mapping and GIS Services
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3 References
All references cited within this document are identified below. Where an organisational name
has changed since the original date of publication, the new organisational name has been used
and the former organisational name noted.
Subject to the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968 (C’th), a copy of each reference to which
Cliffs has authority to reproduce is provided on the compact disc appended to this document.
Western Australian legislation cited can be obtained from the State Law Publisher at
http://www.slp.wa.gov.au. Commonwealth legislation and International Treaties cited can be
obtained from the Australian Legal Information Institute at http://www.austlii.edu.au.
Australian Weeds Committee (2012) Weeds of National Significance 2012. Commonwealth
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011a) Deception Deposit Vegetation and Flora Survey.
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Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 11. June 2011.
Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011b) Deception Deposit Vertebrate Fauna Survey. Report
prepared by Cartledge V (Dr), Cairnes J and Sachse T of Biota Environmental Sciences Pty
Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 13. March 2011.
Biota Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd (2011c) Deception Deposit Short Range Endemic
Invertebrate Fauna Survey. Report prepared by Watson N (Dr) and Teale R of Biota
Environmental Sciences Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 7.
March 2011.
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Data for years 1996 to 2017. Accessed March 2017 from the Australian Bureau of
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Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2010a) Form to nominate a Western Australian species for listing
as threatened, change of category or delisting 2010. Submission by Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Pty Ltd to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (formerly as
the Department of Environment and Conservation) for removal of Tree-stem Trapdoor
Spider Aganippe castellum from listing as Specially Protected Fauna under the Wildlife
Conservation Act 1950 (WA). January 2010.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2010b) Koolyanobbing Iron Ore Project – Mt Jackson J1 Deposit:
Application to Take Fauna under the Wildlife Conservation Regulations 1970 (WA).
Application by Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd to the Department of Biodiversity,
Conservation and Attractions (formerly as the Department of Environment and
Conservation) for approval to take individuals of Tree-stem Trapdoor Spider Aganippe
castellum at the Mt Jackson J1 Deposit. May 2010.
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Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2013) Yilgarn Operations Deception Deposit Flora and
Vegetation Survey for the Realignment of the Deception Deposit Haul Road. Report
prepared by Wilkinson K (nee Greenacre) of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision B.
January 2013.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2015) Yilgarn Operations - Mine Closure Plan. Report prepared
by Harry N of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 0. April 2015.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2016) Yilgarn Operations - Flora and Vegetation Management
Plan. Report prepared by Howard R (Dr) for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision G.
June 2016.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2017a) Application for a Clearing Permit (Area Permit).
Clearing Permit Application for mine development of the Claw Deposit within Mining
Lease M77/1259-I in the Shire of Menzies. August 2017.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2017b) Credit Card Payment for Clearing Permit Applications.
Credit card payment form for the Clearing Permit Application for mine development of
the Claw Deposit within Mining Lease M77/1259-I in the Shire of Menzies. August 2017.
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(WA) Mining Proposal - Addendum to Notice of Intent 37155 – Mining Lease M77/1259-I.
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Iron Ore Pty Ltd. In prep. August 2017.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2017d) Annual Environmental Report. Annual Environmental
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Mines Industry Regulation and Safety (formerly as the Department of Mines and
Petroleum) for the Deception Deposit Mine Operations. Report for period April 2016 to
March 2017. DMIRS Reference ID AER-841-16854. March 2017.
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (2017e) Annual Environmental Report. Annual Environmental
Report prepared by Harry N of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd for the Department of
Mines Industry Regulation and Safety (formerly as the Department of Mines and
Petroleum) for the Yilgarn Operations. Report for period April 2016 to March 2017. DMIRS
Reference ID AER-922-16858. March 2017.
Cliffs Natural Resources Incorporated (2017) Environmental Policy. July 2017.
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Jackson (CAD) (Our Ref: 19-01113EC). Email of Priority Ecological Community Data
supplied by the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (formerly as the
Department of Parks and Wildlife) to CAD Resources on behalf of Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Pty Ltd. November 2013.
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www.FloraBase.dpaw.wa.gov.au. Accessed May 2017.
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Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (2017c) No title. List of Specially
Protected Fauna and Priority Fauna. Accessed March 2017 from the Department of
Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (formerly as the Department of Parks and
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species-and-communities/threatened-animals. Website Excel file dated February 2017.
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required-to-assess-4944.aspx.
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Aboriginal Sites Database: Registered Aboriginal Sites in Mining Tenement M77/1259.
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Department of Aboriginal Affairs) website at http://maps.dia.wa.gov.au/AHIS2/.
March 2017.
Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (2017b) Aboriginal Heritage Inquiry System
Aboriginal Sites Database: Other Heritage Places Registered Aboriginal Sites in Mining
Tenement M77/1259. Accessed from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
(formerly as the Department of Aboriginal Affairs) website at
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Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (2017c) Aboriginal Heritage Inquiry System
Aboriginal Sites Database: Other Heritage Place ID 27027. Accessed from the
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Affairs) website at http://maps.dia.wa.gov.au/AHIS2/. March 2017.
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Aboriginal Sites Database: Registered Aboriginal Sites in Mining Tenement M77/1259.
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Tenement M77/1259. Accessed from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
website at http://maps.dia.wa.gov.au/AHIS2/. August 2017.
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Sites Database: Registered Site ID 27027. Accessed from the Department of Planning,
Lands and Heritage website at http://maps.dia.wa.gov.au/AHIS2/. August 2017.
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Department of the Environment and Energy (2017a) EPBC Act List of Threatened Flora. Accessed
March 2017 from the Department of the Environment Department of the Environment and
Energy (formerly as the Department of the Environment) website at
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bin/sprat/public/publicthreatenedlist.pl?wanted=flora.
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(formerly as the Department of Water). August 2014.
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (2016) Licence to Construct or Alter Well.
Licence CAW183476 under s26D of the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (WA)
granted to Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd by the Department of Water and
Environmental Regulation (formerly as the Department of Water). November 2016.
Dieback Working Group (2008) Managing Phytophthora Dieback in Bushland: A Guide for
Landholders and Community Conservation Groups. Edition 4. 2008.
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Russell M G (2008) Abundance, Distribution and Habitat Requirements of the Tree-Stem Trapdoor
spider, Aganippe castellum (Arachnida: Idiopidae) in the eastern West Australian
Wheatbelt. Masters Thesis. Edith Cowan University, Western Australia.
SGS Systems and Services Certification Pty Ltd (2015) System Certification Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron
Ore Limited. ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System Certification granted by
SGS Systems and Services Certification Pty Ltd to Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd for the
Koolyanobbing Range, Windarling Range and Mt Jackson Range mine operations.
October 2015.
Soil Water Consultants (2011) Deception Deposit Pre-Mine Soil Characterisation. Report prepared
by Collins S of Soil Water Consultants (Soil Water Resources Pty Ltd) for Cliffs Asia Pacific
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50
Western Australian Minister for Environment (2017a) Wildlife Conservation (Rare Flora) Notice 2016.
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Western Botanical (2009a) Flora and Vegetation Survey of a Polygon at Deception Prospect for
Future Drilling Programs, May 2009. Report prepared by Burgess S of Western Botanical for
Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. September 2009.
Western Botanical (2009b) Flora and Vegetation of the Western Jackson Range (Mt Jackson
Range), Western Australia. Report prepared by McNee S A and Cockerton G T B of
Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd (formerly as Portman Iron Ore Ltd).
April 2009.
Western Botanical (2012a) Deception Deposit Options Assessment Flora and Vegetation Survey.
Report prepared by Eckermann B of Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty
Ltd. March 2012.
Western Botanical (2012b) Deception Deposit Mine Area Flora and Vegetation Survey. Report
prepared by Warden J of Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd.
Revision 1. December 2012.
Western Botanical (2012c) Flora and Vegetation of the Windarling Range. Report prepared by
Eckermann B of Western Botanical for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. December 2012.
Woodman Environmental Consulting Pty Ltd (2014) Southern Koolyanobbing Range Flora and
Vegetation Assessment. Report prepared by Coultas D of Woodman Environmental
Consulting Pty Ltd for Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd. Revision 0. February 2014.
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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Attach CD of
References and Spatial Data
Yilgarn Operations Cliffs Asia Pacific Iron Ore Pty Ltd Claw Deposit Clearing Permit Supporting Information August 2017 (Revision 0)
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Attachments Attachment 1 Environmental Policy
(Cliffs Natural Resources 2017)
Attachment 2 AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System Certification
(SGS 2015)
Attachment 3 Flora and Vegetation Management Plan
(Cliffs 2016)