A proposal to extend the depth and area of existing mine pits in the Pilbara region has been recommended for approval by the Environmental Protection Authority.
EPA Chairman Dr Tom Hatton said the EPA tested the proposal against key environmental factors including Flora and Vegetation, Hydrological Processes and Inland Water Environmental Quality before recommending the proposal could be implemented subject to seven conditions.
“The conditions we have recommended include preparation of an outcome-based environmental management plan to minimise the long-term impacts from groundwater abstraction and surplus dewater discharge run-off, and alterations to surface water flows to Weeli Wolli Creek,” Dr Hatton said.
“Conditions also require the proponent to minimise hydrological impacts to Aboriginal heritage values linked to the creek and to contribute to an approved conservation offsets fund.”
The Minister for Environment will make the final decision.