Since 1996 specialists have been gathering baseline data for detailed environmental investigations and assessments of potential impacts.

This has involved:

• Undertaking planning and community research, and consultation with the local community;
• Environmental monitoring of existing air and water quality;
• Flora and fauna studies, including both terrestrial and aquatic environments;
• Flood studies in the valleys;
• Groundwater investigations;
• Gathering climatic data; and
• Inputting this data into geotechnical, mine planning and subsidence assessments.

The results of the investigations have been used to make modifications to the mine plan to reduce the impacts on the physical and social environment. More detailed investigations are being finalised for inclusion in the Environmental Assessment document and will be made available when finalised.

We will ensure that our EA document responds to issues raised by the community and the Expert Panel.