Sea Turtle Management Plan

Transcription

1 GREEN COAST RESOURCES January 2015 Sea Turtle Management Plan

2 This report has been prepared solely for the benefit of Green Coast Resources. MET Serve Pty Ltd accepts no liability for the use or interpretation of any information contained in this report for any other purpose other than intended, or for its use by any party other than the above named Client. Document History and Status Issue Revision Issued to Date Reviewed by 1 Draft MET Serve 2/1/2015 Dave Moss 2 Draft MET Serve 5/1/2015 Megan McKinney 3 Draft MET Serve 9/1/2015 Chris Wiley 4 Draft Green Coast Resources 13/1/2015 Hugh Simmons 5 Final Draft Department of the Environment 14/1/2015 Dave Moss 6 Final Green Coast Resources 22/1/2015 Michael Correll MET Serve Project Delivery System Printed: 22 January 2015 Last saved: 22 January 2015 File ID: Project Manager: Michael Correll Name of Organisation: MET Serve Pty Ltd Name of Project: Name of Document: Sea Turtle Management Plan Document Version: 009 Project Number: CL003 PO Box 306 Fortitude Valley Post Office Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 ABN Radix Doc ID:

3 Declaration of Accuracy by Green Coast Resources In making this declaration, Green Coast Resources is aware that section 491 of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) makes it an offence in certain circumstances to knowingly provide false or misleading information or documents to specified persons who are known to be performing a duty or carrying out a function under the EPBC Act or the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations The offence is punishable on conviction by imprisonment or a fine, or both. I am authorised to bind Green Coast Resources to this declaration and I have no knowledge of that authorisation being revoked at the time of making this declaration. Radix Doc ID:

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION PROJECT DESCRIPTION LOCATION ACTIVITIES Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Panel Mining Methodology Mine Sequencing Schedule of Activities Contingency Schedules OBJECTIVES ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES SITE MANAGER PERSONNEL REPORTING REQUIRED REPORTS Daily reports Monthly reports Incident reports Non-conformance reports EMP audit report SCHEDULE FOR REPORTING DOCUMENT CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINING EMERGENCY CONTACTS AND PROCEDURES PROTECTED MATTER ECOLOGY OF THE SPECIES Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate) Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) Flatback Turtle (Natator depressus) THREATS CONSERVATION STATUS POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES Radix Doc ID: TOC i

5 9.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS Construction Phase Operation Phase Rehabilitation Phase ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES Direct mortality from boat strike Land use affecting the water quality of sea turtle habitat Light pollution Waste RESIDUAL RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY RISK OF MORTALITY FROM BOAT STRIKE LAND USE AFFECTING THE WATER QUALITY OF SEA TURTLE HABITAT LIGHT POLLUTION WASTE AUDIT AND REVIEW ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITING MANAGEMENT PLAN REVIEW GLOSSARY REFERENCES FIGURES Figure 1 Regional location...4 Figure 2 Mining lease and disturbance footprint...5 Figure 3 Panel mining methodology...7 Figure disturbance footprint area...9 Figure disturbance footprint area Figure disturbance footprint area Figure 7 Map of potential habitat area TABLES Table 1 Schedule of activities Table 2 Anthropogenic threats to sea turtles Table 3 Conservation status of sea turtles - legislation Radix Doc ID: TOC ii

6 Table 4 Control measures for direct mortality from boat strikes Table 5 Control measures for land use affecting water quality of sea turtle habitat Table 6 Control measures for risk to sea turtles from light pollution Table 7 Control measures for risk to sea turtles from wastes Table 8 Qualitative risk assessment definitions Table 9 Risk rating methodology Radix Doc ID: TOC iii

7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This Sea Turtle Management Plan has been prepared to manage potential risks to sea turtles including the Green Turtle (Chelonia Mydas), Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta), Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) and the Flatback Turtle (Natator depressus) during activities associated with the (HPBP). The HPBP is a proposed small-scale open cut bauxite mining operation located 10 kilometres (km) south of Weipa. The Loggerhead and Olive Ridley Turtles are listed as Endangered under both the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act, 1999) and the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act, 1992), whilst the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Flatback Turtle are listed as Vulnerable. Most of the turtle species are highly migratory and use a wide range of broadly separated localities and habitats during their lifetime. Loggerhead Turtles are generally found near the surface of the ocean whereas the Olive Ridley, Flatback and Green Turtles spend most of their time around softbottomed habitats where seagrass beds are found. Hawksbill Turtles mostly use sub-tidal coral and rocky reef habitats throughout Australia. Although there is limited habitat within the Embley River for most of these turtle species, there remains a possibility that the Embley River may be used for foraging. Three potential impacts on sea turtles of the HPBP have been identified: boat strike light pollution water quality indirectly affecting seagrass productivity. A set of management measures is proposed to specifically address each of these impacts, and by applying these, the HPBP aims to meet the following performance targets: No boat strike of sea turtles 100 % compliance with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan 100% compliance with Mine Rehabilitation Plan No lighting to be visible from sea turtle nesting sites 100% compliance with the Waste Management Plan. The likelihood and potential consequences of each impact, once mitigation measures are accounted for, were assessed using a qualitative risk assessment methodology as per The Australian Government s Environmental Management Plan Guidelines The risk assessment identified a low residual risk to the turtle species for each of the potential impacts identified. Radix Doc ID: Page 1

8 1 INTRODUCTION A number of sea turtles including the Green Turtle (Chelonia Mydas), Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta), Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) and the Flatback Turtle (Natator depressus) have been identified by the Minister for the Environment as species that are likely to be impacted upon by the activities associated with the Hey Point Bauxite Project (HPBP). This Sea Turtle Management Plan provides information about the ecology of sea turtles, identifies the potential impacts that may occur in the context of the HPBP and proposes management strategies to mitigate the potential impacts identified. This Sea Turtle Management Plan has been prepared to provide HPBP personnel with appropriate management strategies in the event that a sea turtle is observed in close proximity to HPBP operations. Based on the Department of the Environment s (DoTE) Environmental Management Plan Guidelines (2014e), it is one of several species management plans documented for the HPBP and forms part of the HPBP Environmental Management Plan (EMP). Radix Doc ID: Page 2

9 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The HPBP will produce approximately 4 million tonnes (Mt) of product bauxite over the course of its life and export up to 1.6 Mt of bauxite per year. Minimal processing (dry screening) is required and in most areas the run-of-mine bauxite tonnes are equivalent to the product bauxite tonnes. The HPBP has an optimal mine life of 3 years based on a dry season operation only. An additional year may be required subject to weather conditions limiting the length of the operating dry season. The key elements of the HPBP are outlined below: Open cut mining will involve conventional panel bauxite mining methods, including truck and shovel operations with a mobile screening unit being utilised to separate bauxite from dry screening material when necessary. Mining will only be undertaken during the dry season. Appropriate erosion and sediment control measures will be utilised to stabilise areas of disturbance prior to the HPBP being shut down over the wet season. The shallow mine pit (maximum depth of 4.5 m) is not predicted to interact with the regional groundwater table during dry season operations. Due to site climate conditions, landform characteristics and geological properties, no overland flow is anticipated during the dry season; however, in keeping with standard erosion and sediment control principles, clean water drainage will be diverted away from mining areas and mine-affected water will be captured and contained within the mine workings for reuse. A mobile conveyor (approximately 320 m long) will be used to move product bauxite from the product stockpile to a barge moored in the Embley River. The 2,000 t barge will be loaded by a radial stacker positioned at the end of a floating pontoon. Product bauxite will be transported via barge to a bulk vessel moored approximately 3.5 km downstream in the Embley River (within the Port of Weipa waters) ready for export. The barge will require three movements per day, over a ten day period to fill the bulk vessel. Power will be supplied from a combination of diesel-fuelled generators and renewable energy (solar panels). A 30,000 litre diesel tanker (self-bunded) will be positioned on-site to refuel plant and equipment. Staff will access the Project daily via road from Aurukun or via a small boat from Weipa. All plant and equipment will be brought in via the road network from Weipa as required. Mining activities will be conducted seven days a week, with one 12 hour shift per day. Loading of product bauxite into the bulk vessel for export will be conducted for a total of six hours over a 24 hour period in three two hour intervals. 2.1 LOCATION The HPBP is located on freehold land, approximately 10 km south of the township of Weipa. Weipa is located approximately 700 km north-west of Cairns and 1,200 km east of Darwin as presented in Figure 1. Figure 2 presents the proposed area of disturbance within the mining lease application boundary (MLA 20611). Radix Doc ID: Page 3

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12 2.2 ACTIVITIES Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases This management plan is structured on three project phases which include construction, operation and rehabilitation. These phases are consistent with the panel mining methodology described below and upon commencement of bauxite extraction activities, will occur concurrently as the mine progresses. The activities within each phase are listed below: Construction phase: mobilisation to site, site preparation and infrastructure establishment, construction of roads and tracks, progressive clearing of vegetation throughout life of mine. Operation phase: extraction of bauxite, potential screening, transportation and loading product. Rehabilitation phase: progressive through life of mine, placing of fill, moving of topsoil, final profiling, revegetation, removal of site infrastructure, final rehabilitation of mine Panel Mining Methodology The mining activities have been designed to minimise movement and handling of topsoil, subsoil (overburden) and screening waste, maximising the efficiency of the whole of life mining process by directly placing waste materials and topsoil with excavated areas. The aim of the mining process is to facilitate rehabilitation that closely follows the progression of the active mining pit, with only two hectares actively disturbed by mining (excluding rehabilitation activities) at any one point in time. The implementation of panel mining methodology can be seen in Figure 3. Radix Doc ID: Page 6

13 1 hectare (ha) panels 1 ha panels Step Description Step Description 1 Topsoil moved from panel A to stockpile 9 Topsoil from panel E moved to panel C; panel D mined 2 Subsoil from panel A and topsoil from panel B moved to stockpile 10 Subsoil from panel E moved to panel D 3 Panel A mined 11 Topsoil from panel F moved to panel D; panel E mined 4 Subsoil from panel B moved to panel A 12 Subsoil from panel F moved to panel E 5 Topsoil from panel C moved to panel A; panel B mined 13 Topsoil from stockpile moved to panel E; panel F mined 6 Subsoil from panel C moved to panel B 14 Soil from stockpile moved to panel F 7 Topsoil from panel D moved to panel B; panel C mined 15 Topsoil from stockpile moved to panel F 8 Subsoil from panel D moved to panel C 16 Ready for rehabilitation prior to start of wet season Figure 3 Panel mining methodology Mine Sequencing The main features of the proposed mining sequence are outlined below: Vegetation will be cleared, mulched and stockpiled. Some of the larger trees will be felled and placed in the rehabilitation area for fauna habitat. A two-stage stripping process will be implemented. Topsoil will be stripped, followed by the subsoil, leaving exposed bauxite to be mined. The topsoil and subsoil will be placed directly into the previously mined panel commencing the rehabilitation process. Cap rock will be broken by deep ripping with a bulldozer if required to expose the bauxite ore body. No explosives will be required. Radix Doc ID: Page 7

14 Exposed bauxite will be pushed up into windrows with a bulldozer. The majority of windrowed bauxite will be loaded into rear dump trucks and transported to the product stockpile area where it will be either stockpiled prior to load out or dumped straight into the receivable hopper. Windrowed bauxite containing sufficient impurities will be processed through a mobile screening unit prior to transportation to the product stockpile. Screening waste will be placed behind the screening unit by a loader and then later used for backfilling purposes. The optimal three year mining sequence is presented in Figure 4, Figure 5, and Figure 6. The respective figures are based on the mine plan at a specific time in each year. For example Figure 4 presents the mine progression in September The key feature of the mining sequence is that all mining panels will have commenced rehabilitation activities prior to the cessation of operations each year. It is expected that vegetation will be established during the subsequent wet season. Access tracks for the management of the rehabilitation along with haul routes (if required) through the rehabilitated areas will be retained. The infrastructure, plant and equipment selected for the HPBP is reflective of the small scale and nature of the operation. Based on the optimal three-year life of mine, infrastructure has been designed to be mobile, with minimal construction and decommissioning requirements. Radix Doc ID: Page 8

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18 2.2.4 Schedule of Activities The schedule (Table 1) presented below provides an overview of key activities for the life of the HPBP, along with anticipated timeframes. Table 1 Schedule of activities Time Activity Mobilise to site (plant and equipment/temporary office and workshops etc) April 2015 Commence vegetation clearing and early works Establish haul roads and access tracks May 2015 June 2015 June 2015 November 2015 November 2015 April 2016 April 2016 November 2016 November 2016 April 2017 April 2017 November 2017 November 2017 November 2017 November 2027 November 2027 Floating pontoon positioned in place Construction of mobile conveyor Commencement of panel mining sequence, Implementation of rehabilitation management plan (progressive rehabilitation through life of HPBP) Shut down for wet season Commencement of panel mining sequence, Implementation of rehabilitation management plan (progressive rehabilitation through life of HPBP) Shut down for wet season Commencement of panel mining sequence, Implementation of rehabilitation management plan (progressive rehabilitation through life of HPBP) Shut down for wet season Ongoing rehabilitation to meet objectives of the Rehabilitation Management Plan Lease relinquishment and financial close Contingency Schedules Contingency schedules will be prepared based on weather conditions for each calendar year. For example, a particularly wet year may reduce the period of time during the year when efficient mining can be conducted. The planned area of disturbance for each calendar year will be adjusted accordingly Radix Doc ID: Page 12

19 3 OBJECTIVES The objective of this Sea Turtle Management Plan is to provide the HPBP with sufficient controls and management strategies to reduce the risk of any potential impacts to sea turtles to as low as reasonably practicable. To achieve this objective, a rigorous risk assessment has been undertaken. The risk assessment proposed a number of potential impacts. To reduce the risk of the potential impacts occurring, a series of control measures appropriate to the nature, size and scale of the impact were proposed. A residual risk assessment was then conducted based on likelihood and consequence analysis. Further to the impact assessment, this management plan provides a complete management framework which includes: a description of the HPBP project timeframes roles and responsibilities monitoring requirements auditing and reporting requirements. Radix Doc ID: Page 13

20 4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The number of employees working at the HPBP will be limited to a maximum of 20 on a rostered basis. A single rostered crew will be on site at any one time, supervised by a Site Manager. The Site Manager, reporting directly to the Green Coast Resources Managing Director, will be responsible for the management and performance of the staff across all management disciplines including operations, safety and environment. The two-tiered management structure requires all HPBP employees to demonstrate responsible environmental stewardship. 4.1 SITE MANAGER The Site Manager is the most senior member of staff on site. The Site Manager will be responsible for the implementation of the HPBP EMP, including the Sea Turtle Management Plan. To maximise the effective implementation of the EMP, the Site Manager will be responsible for: providing resources and equipment to meet objectives initiating reviews of EMP when required reporting non-compliances reporting environmental incidents implementing monitoring programs maintaining site records daily / monthly reporting. The Site Manager is responsible for identifying training needs so that all HPBP personnel receive an appropriate level of training to understand and implement the requirements of the EMP. To achieve this, the Site Manager will use a combination of training and communication tools including: Site induction: this will provide staff with a thorough understanding of the environmental values of the site, the EMP framework and a general overview of the objectives of the EMP. The Induction will provide staff with an understanding of the general environmental duty, incident reporting requirements and set standards of environmental performance required. Toolbox talks: the toolbox talks will provide specific aspects of the EMP relevant to the activities being undertaken that day. It will inform the operational methodology and provide staff with appropriate management strategies to manage potential environmental impacts. Copies of the EMP available in the crib hut and main office. Environmental alerts. 4.2 PERSONNEL The Environmental Protection Act 1994 states that all personnel have a general environmental duty. This means that all personnel are responsible for the actions they take that affect the environment. Personnel will be responsible for: carrying out environmental management activities as directed by the Site Manager observing and informing the Site Manager regarding general environmental performance of the HPBP notifying the Site Manager of any environmental incidents notifying the Site Manager of any non-conformances participating in induction processes and daily tool box talks to ensure a suitable understanding of site environmental values. Radix Doc ID: Page 14

21 5 REPORTING Reporting will consist of both internal and external reports. Internal reports will make up the majority of the reporting requirements and include daily and monthly reporting. External reports will be required as a condition of approval, at the specific request of a key stakeholder or after a notifiable environmental incident. 5.1 REQUIRED REPORTS Daily reports The daily environmental checklist will be completed by the Site Manager. The environmental checklist is integrated into a standard daily report (operational requirements) for the HPBP Monthly reports The monthly report will provide a summary of environmental performance including but not be limited to: summary of weather conditions a summary of construction activities undertaken through the month environmental incidents number of non-conformances corrective actions implemented area (ha) of clearance for the month area (ha) of rehabilitation environmental training a summary of community complaints (legitimate complaints) and how they were managed any environmental initiatives Incident reports Environmental incidents will be documented in accordance with the HPBP Environmental Incident Reporting Procedure Non-conformance reports Non-conformance reports will be documented in accordance with the HPBP Incident Reporting Procedure EMP audit report Audits will be undertaken annually or in accordance with the HPBP Environmental Authority conditions. 5.2 SCHEDULE FOR REPORTING A reporting schedule will be prepared to include any conditions of approval requiring reporting prior to activities commencing at the HPBP. 5.3 DOCUMENT CONTROL Green Coast Resources have a document control system that will be implemented for the HPBP. All environmental documentation is to be managed by the Green Coast Resources Managing Director. No other staff are authorised to make changes to HPBP environmental documentation. Hard copies of EMP will be kept onsite. It is the responsibility of the Site Manager to ensure that the latest plans are being implemented. Radix Doc ID: Page 15

22 6 ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINING Environmental training will be facilitated through site inductions and tool box talks. The site induction will be provided to all staff and include the following: identification of site environmental values an understanding the requirements of the EMP roles and responsibilities environmental emergency response procedures site environmental controls environmental incident identification and response potential consequences of not meeting environmental responsibilities. The management controls presented in this Sea Turtle Management Plan will be included in daily toolbox talks whilst vegetation clearance is occurring. Radix Doc ID: Page 16

23 7 EMERGENCY CONTACTS AND PROCEDURES Emergency contacts and procedures are found in the following HPBP documents: Plan of Operations Health and Safety Management Plan Emergency response plan. Where required, specialist advice will be sought by a recognised sea turtle specialist. Radix Doc ID: Page 17

24 8 PROTECTED MATTER 8.1 ECOLOGY OF THE SPECIES Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) The Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) is a migratory, marine species that occupies a variety of marine and coastal habitats during different life history stages. The species has a worldwide distribution, ranging from the North Atlantic ocean to the subantarctic waters between Australia and Antarctica, but typically spends the majority of its life in tropical and warm temperate waters (Wilson and Swan 2010; DEHP 2015a). The carapace of a mature Green Turtle can grow to over one metre in length (Hazel et al. 2009). Green Turtles can be identified by the non-overlapping scales on their shell, and four outer scales on each side of their shell (Limpus 2009). Green Turtles spend up to the first 10 years of their life in pelagic waters before moving to shallower waters in search of seagrass and marine algae, which are the sole constituents of their diet (Seminoff 2004). Once reaching sexual maturity, Green Turtles commence breeding migrations between foraging grounds (seagrass beds) and nesting areas (Seminoff 2004). Within the coastal region of the Gulf of Carpentaria, nesting occurs year round with a peak during mid-winter (Limpus 1995a). The adult female displays a high degree of fidelity to her chosen nesting beach, with most females returning to produce successive clutches within a single nesting season (Limpus 2008) Habitat Requirements Green Turtles are herbivorous and forage within tidal and sub-tidal habitats including coral and rocky reefs, seagrass meadows and algal beds on sand and mud flats (Limpus 2008). The Green Turtle is the most likely turtle species covered by this management plan to utilise the seagrass beds of the Embley River for foraging, as Green Turtles preferred habitat includes inshore seagrass pastures (Hazel et al. 2007). Green Turtles require sandy beaches for nesting which are common within the coastal regions of the mainland and islands within the Gulf of Carpentaria. However, the banks of the Embley River are characterised by rocky shorelines or mudflats, and do not present suitable nesting habitat Local Population The Green Turtle is abundant throughout coastal regions of Queensland (DEHP 2011) with an estimated population of 5,000 nesting females (Limpus 2008). The Gulf of Carpentaria includes a large number of nesting sites in the Wellesley Islands, Eastern Arnhem Land, Groote Eylandt and Sir Edward Pellew Islands. Minor breeding occurs at scattered locations along mainland western Cape York Peninsula (DEHP 2012). Breeding is highly unlikely to occur within the HPBP mining lease, as no suitable nest sites (sandy beaches) are present. No Green Turtles were observed within the Embley River during ecological surveys of the HPBP mining lease in Nevertheless, seagrass meadows are found within the mining lease (along the northern coastline), and the species of seagrass that dominates these beds (Enthalus acoroides: RTA Weipa 2011) is readily eaten by Green Turtles (André et al. 2005). Green Turtles are likely to be an occasional visitor to the waters of the HPBP mining lease Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) The Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) is a migratory, marine species, widely distributed in coastal waters, mainly in subtropical and temperate regions (DoTE 2014a). Mature Loggerhead Turtles can reach a body length of 1.5 m and can be distinguished by their large head and elongated shell, which has five non-overlapping scales on each side (DEHP 2015b). Loggerhead Turtles are carnivorous, eating bottom dwelling molluscs, crabs, sponges and urchins, as well as free swimming jellyfish (DoTE 2014a). Radix Doc ID: Page 18

25 Breeding occurs every 2 years and females nest 3 to 5 times during a breeding year. In Australia, the Loggerhead Turtle mates around November with a peak nesting period in December (Limpus 1985). Loggerhead Turtle foraging habitat is widely distributed across Australia and they are found off the coast of Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and New South Wales in coral reefs, bays and estuaries (DoTE 2015). However, known nesting sites are confined to specific islands and beaches in the eastern Queensland and Western Australia (Limpus 2009) Habitat Requirements Loggerhead Turtles forage in a wide range of habitats including coral and rocky reefs, seagrass meadows, and soft-bottomed sand or mud areas. Their diet includes hard-bodied, slow moving invertebrate prey (Limpus, 2008). They have specialised nesting beaches, which in Queensland are located in southern area of the Great Barrier Reef. During the nesting season, Loggerhead Turtles remain the vicinity of nesting beaches. Following the nesting period, Loggerhead Turtles migrate to preferred foraging areas (Limpus et al. 1992). These may be near the nesting locations or over 2,000 km away (Limpus et al. 1992) Local Population Loggerhead Turtles are not known to breed anywhere on western Cape York Peninsula (Gyuris and Limpus 1988). The total number of breeding females in Queensland has declined from an estimated 3,500 in 1977 to less than 500 in the breeding season. There are no data on the possible number of Loggerhead Turtles that utilise the Gulf of Carpentaria coastal waters for foraging; however this is likely to be relatively small. Loggerhead Turtles are known to forage in the Gulf of Carpentaria (Limpus et al. 1992). However, most Loggerhead Turtles remain at latitudes above 28 (Limpus et al. 1992; Polovina et al. 2003), which is well south of Cape York Peninsula. It is unlikely that the Embley River estuary constitutes important feeding habitat for the Loggerhead Turtle, but small numbers may utilise the area Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate) Hawskbill Turtles spend their first 4 to 10 years of their life drifting on ocean currents (DoTE 2014c) before settling on tropical tidal and sub-tidal coral and rocky reef habitat (DoTE 2014c). They can be identified by their pointed beak, and four overlapping scales on each side of the shell (Dobbs et al. 1999). Their diet consists of largely of sponges, but also includes algae, animals and plants. Nesting occurs between January and April (Dobbs et al. 1999; Loop et al. 1995) on islands across northern Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia (Limpus 2009). Females reproduce every two to four years, laying an average of 122 eggs each year (DoTE 2014c) Habitat Requirements Hawskbill Turtle habitat includes tidal and sub-tidal coral and rocky reef habitats throughout tropical Australia and warm temperate areas as far south as Northern New South Wales (Limpus, 2009). They prefer reefs rich in sponges. Hawkbill Turtles breed on islands Local Population There are no known nesting sites for Hawksbill Turtles in the Weipa region (Limpus 2009). A large nesting population (>5,000 nesting females) occurs across islands of the northern Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait (Limpus 2009). Turtles from these populations migrate over broad areas, and forage across the Gulf of Carpentaria (Limpus 2009). Radix Doc ID: Page 19

26 Hawksbill Turtles likely forage in oceanic waters around Weipa, but are unlikely to regularly enter rivers due to a lack of suitable reef habitat. The HPBP mining lease is therefore unlikely to support populations of Hawksbill Turtle Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) The Olive Ridley Turtle is the smallest of the Australian sea turtles with a mean curved carapace length of approximately 70 cm (Limpus et al. 1983a; Whiting 1997). The turtle is characterised by more than five pairs of non-overlapping scales along the edges of the shell. Most of the immature and adult population forage over shallow benthic habitats from northern Western Australia to south-east Queensland (DoTE 2014d). The age to maturity has been estimated at 13 years (with a range of years) (DoTE 2014d). Breeding in northern Australia generally occurs from March to October (Hamann et al. 2002; DoTE 2014d). The Olive Ridley Turtle eats mostly gastropod and bivalve molluscs, and may include crabs, shrimp, jellyfish, salps and algae as part of their diet (DoTE 2014d) Habitat Requirements The Olive Ridley Turtle prefers tropical waters between 6-35 m deep, where if feeds over soft-bottom habitats. It has not been recorded at reefs or in shallow inshore seagrass flats (Limpus 2008b). The Olive Ridley Turtle breeds in low densities on sandy beaches across northern Australia, including coastlines in the vicinity of Weipa (Limpus 2008b) Local Population Low numbers of nesting females have been observed on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula in the vicinity of Weipa (Limpus 2008b). No sandy beaches suitable for nesting are present in the vicinity of Hey Point. It is unlikely that Olive Ridley Turtles regularly use the waters off Hey Point for foraging, given their preference for deeper sea habitats Flatback Turtle (Natator depressus) Flatback Turtles (Natator depressus) are found only in the tropical waters of northern Australia, Papua New Guinea and Irian Jaya (DoTE 2014b). The Flatback Turtle is characterised by a low-domed, fleshy shell with upturned edges (Bustard 1972; Cogger 2000; Limpus 1971). Mature Flatback Turtles forage widely through the waters over the Australian continental shelf to as far north as the Gulf of Papua New Guinea (DoTE 2014b). They are carnivorous, feeding mostly on soft-bodied prey such as sea cucumbers, corals and jellyfish. In southern Queensland, the Flatback Turtle mating season occurs in mid-october with nesting occurring between October and January (Limpus 2007). Low-density nesting occurs along the northwest coast of Cape York Peninsula between Weipa and Bamaga (Limpus 2007) Habitat Requirements Flatback Turtles utilise a range of foraging habitats including turbid inshore waters, bays, coastal coral reef and seagrass shallows. They utilise sandy coastlines for nesting. They rarely nest on beaches fronted by intertidal coral reefs, and therefore prefer mainland beaches and continental islands (Limpus 2007) Local Population The north-eastern Gulf of Carpentaria and western Torres Strait support the largest breeding population of the species, with the number of breeding females estimated to be in the thousands (Limpus 2007). The largest rookeries occur on Crab Island, Deliverance Island and Kerr Island; however, minor rookeries occur along sandy beaches as far south as Weipa (Limpus 2007). No suitable nesting habitat (sandy beaches) occurs in the vicinity of Hey Point. Radix Doc ID: Page 20

27 It is not known to what extent Flatback Turtles enter rivers to feed, but it is possible that small numbers may feed in the waters in the vicinity of the HPBP. 8.2 THREATS The Recovery Plan for Marine Turtles in Australia (Environment Australia 2003), identifies a number of threats to sea turtles from anthropogenic activities (Table 2). Table 2 Anthropogenic threats to sea turtles Threats increasing risk of mortality bycatch of sea turtles by fishing trawlers customary harvest by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people marine debris shark control activities boat strike pearl farming and other aquaculture activities defence activities Threats to nesting light pollution tourism and recreational activities vehicle damage faunal predation of marine turtle eggs Threats to habitats that are critical to survival land use and water quality loss of sea grass or benthic habitat oil spills and operational discharges noise With respect to Table 2, the activities of the HPBP that could potentially pose threats to the sea turtles utilising the Embley River include: boat strike (mortality) land use and water quality (habitat) loss of seagrass (habitat) waste (marine debris) (mortality/habitat) light pollution (threats to nesting). Loss of seagrass as a result of the HPBP is only likely to occur indirectly through deterioration of water quality, and therefore these threats are considered together in this management plan. 8.3 CONSERVATION STATUS The conservation status of sea turtles in Australia is provided in Table 3. All species in this plan are protected under the Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. As such, they are protected as migratory species under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). All five species are protected as marine species under the EPBC Act. Table 3 Conservation status of sea turtles - legislation Scientific name Common Name EPBC Act Status NC Act Status Chelonia mydas Green Turtle Vulnerable Vulnerable Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle Endangered Endangered Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Turtle Vulnerable Vulnerable Lepidochelys olivacea Olive Ridley Turtle Endangered Endangered Natator depressus Flatback Turtle Vulnerable Vulnerable EPBC Act: Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 NC Act: Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 Radix Doc ID: Page 21

28 The conservation status of each species under the IUCN Redlist and the priority listings for the Cape York region Back on Track program are listed in Table 4. Table 4 Conservation status of sea turtles - guidelines Scientific name Common Name IUCN Redlist Back on Track Priority EHP Cape York Region Chelonia mydas Green Turtle Endangered Critical Critical Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle Endangered Critical Critical Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Turtle Critically Endangered Critical Critical Lepidochelys olivacea Olive Ridley Turtle Vulnerable Critical High Natator depressus Flatback Turtle Data Deficient Critical High Radix Doc ID: Page 22

29 9 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES 9.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS Construction Phase Risk of mortality from boat strike Boat strike is a major source of sea turtle injury and mortality in Queensland waters with large numbers of boats (Hazel et al. 2007; Environment Australia, 2003). Sea turtles are vulnerable to boat strikes when they come to the surface to breathe, rest between dives at the surface and forage in shallow water. Sea turtles most susceptible to boat strike include those inhabiting shallow waters, such as Green Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles, Loggerhead Turtles and Flatback Turtles. A study of Green Turtles, the most likely species to utilise the seagrass beds of the Embley River estuary, suggests they are slow to respond to fast-moving boats; no turtles flee in time if a boat is travelling at 10 knots (19 km h -1 ) (Hazel et al. 2007). Half of turtles foraging or resting on the estuary floor respond in time to boats travelling at 6 knots (11 km h -1 ) (Hazel et al. 2007). Risk of collision is therefore high in shallow water (<2 m), where benthic turtles may contact the propeller. Risk of collision is much lower in deeper water where turtles are less likely to contact boat propellers (Hazel et al. 2007). Any activities associated with the construction phase that involve watercraft (e.g., towing the floating pontoon into position) has a potential risk of boat strike to sea turtles Land use affecting the water quality of sea turtle habitat and seagrass beds Land clearing in coastal regions has the potential to affect turtles through various stages of their life cycle (Environment Australia, 2003). The clearing of ha of vegetation within the HPBP mine disturbance area to allow for the extraction of bauxite and the provision of infrastructure will occur during the construction phase. Disturbed areas have the potential to release sediment through overland surface water flow during rain events. The release of sediment has the potential to elevate in turbidity and sedimentation in the Embley River. This may contribute to the temporary degradation of seagrass bed through smothering and lack of light (Marsh et al. 2002). Activities associated with construction that could contribute to changes in water quality within the Embley River include: the clearing of vegetation in preparation for bauxite extraction activities (potential for increased sediment and nutrient loads in surface water runoff) establishment of cleared areas for workshop, crib hut and the conveyor the potential for hydrocarbon spills from machinery failure and vehicle workshop spills to interact with surface water runoff returning to the Embley River. Note all major repairs and servicing will be completed off site. Any impacts are expected to be short-term, assuming that rehabilitation of mined areas restores vegetation cover and natural levels of erosion, and seagrasses are able to rapidly recolonise following any losses (Plus et al. 2003). Both assumptions are likely to be valid Waste During all stages of the HPBP, there is potential for debris and waste to cause injury or mortality to sea turtles. Plastic bags are often ingested by some species due to the similarity between plastic bags and prey items such as jellyfish (Schuyler et al 2014). During both the construction and operation phase of the HPBP there is a potential for waste to be incorrectly disposed of in proximity to water, leading to potential turtle ingestion. This potential impact exists in the short-term, lasting the 3-year duration of the project. Radix Doc ID: Page 23

30 9.1.2 Operation Phase Light pollution causing disorientation to nesting females and hatchlings Light pollution has the potential to discourage females from nesting in coastal areas near light sources, disorientate female turtles returning to sea after nesting, and disorientate hatchlings which move towards the artificial light instead of the sea (Witherington 1992). There is negligible risk that light pollution caused by the HPBP is a threat to sea turtles, due to the following reasons: The HPBP will operate for approximately two hours each night to support loading of bauxite activities onto the barge. During this time, lights from the barge will provide adequate light to ensure safe for working conditions for HPBP personnel. No other lighting will be present in the vicinity of the Embley River. No habitat suitable for nesting sea turtles exists within or in proximity to the HPBP mining lease Risk of mortality from boat strike Any activities associated with the construction phase that involve watercraft pose a potential threat to sea turtles (see Section ). The following activities will occur during the operations phase: barge movements: three return barge movements every 24 hrs small water craft: a small water craft (fishing boat) may be used to transport staff from Weipa to the HPBP (floating pontoon) on a daily basis Change of Land use affecting the water quality of sea turtle habitat Activities associated with the operation phase that could contribute to changes in water quality within the Embley River include: sediment runoff from mining areas, tracks and other areas lacking vegetation cover the potential for hydrocarbon spills from machinery failure and vehicle workshop spills to interact with surface water runoff returning to the Embley River. Any impacts are expected to be short-term, assuming that rehabilitation of mined areas restores vegetation cover and natural levels of erosion, and seagrasses are able to rapidly recolonise following any losses (Plus et al. 2003). Both assumptions are likely to be valid Waste During the operation phase of the HPBP, there is potential for debris and waste to cause injury or mortality to sea turtles. Plastic bags are often ingested by some species due to the similarity between plastic bags and prey items such as jellyfish (Schuyler et al 2014). During the operation phase of the HPBP there is a potential for waste to be incorrectly disposed of in proximity to water, leading to potential turtle ingestion. This potential impact exists in the short-term, lasting the 3-year duration of the project Rehabilitation Phase Changes in turbidity affecting health of seagrass meadows Seagrass meadow decline can be caused by prolonged periods of elevated turbidity, which may occur if rehabilitated mined sites do not develop appropriate levels of vegetation cover (leading to prolonged periods of erosion). This is considered to be a low risk during the rehabilitation phase as the rehabilitation methods to be adopted are highly successful elsewhere (refer to the Mine Rehabilitation Plan). Radix Doc ID: Page 24

31 9.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES For each phase (construction, operation and rehabilitation) of the HPBP, proposed environmental management measures are presented to mitigate the potential risks identified. Figure 7 illustrates the potential habitat areas for the sea turtles (e.g. seagrass meadows) with respect to the disturbance footprint of the HPBP and is used as a reference throughout this section Direct mortality from boat strike Environmental Management Activities, Controls and Performance Targets Risk control measures for direct mortality from boat strikes can be found in Table 4, including: boat speed volume of boat traffic depth of water density of sea turtles. Table 4 Control measures for direct mortality from boat strikes Risk Control Measures A tug boat (or similar vessel) will be used to tow and manoeuvre the floating pontoon into position. Speed of the tug boat will be limited to 6 knots during towing operations, slowing to 4 knots when within waters less than 2 m deep The speed limit of the barge will be 6 knots when empty and 4 knots when full The transit route (refer to Figure 7) to be utilised avoids seagrass meadows (turtle foraging habitat) If a sea turtle is observed within 20 m of a boat, speed must slow down to 4 knots until the turtle has moved on beyond the 20 m of the operation Small water craft (used for transporting staff) will be restricted to 6 knots within 100 m of sea grass beds and must slow down to 4 knots if a sea turtle has been sighted within a 20 m radius of the boat until the sea turtle moves on (beyond 20 m from the boat) Timing Construction phase Operation phase Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Performance Target No boat strike of sea turtles Environmental Monitoring Any boat strikes or near misses to sea turtles will be recorded in an incident register. Any boat strikes will trigger corrective actions Corrective Actions Any observed mortality of sea turtles through collisions with boats will be recorded and submitted to the Queensland Marine Wildlife Stranding and Mortality database. Data collected will inform the need for further controls of vessel movements in the Embley River. Radix Doc ID: Page 25

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33 9.2.2 Land use affecting the water quality of sea turtle habitat Control measures for land use affecting water quality of sea turtle habitat and sea grass beds are listed in Table 5. Table 5 Control measures for land use affecting water quality of sea turtle habitat Risk Control Measures Timing Performance Target An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan will be prepared and implemented for the HPBP. This will incorporate sediment basins, clean water diversion channels, and a 100 m wide strip of remnant vegetation surrounding all shorelines HPBP employees and contractors will be made aware of environmental obligations and compliance requirements through the site induction program, daily toolbox talks and other work instruction mechanisms will be employed on site A Water Management Plan has been prepared that details surface and groundwater monitoring locations and the frequency of sampling regimes. The water monitoring at the HPBP will be undertaken in accordance with the Water Management Plan A Mine Rehabilitation Plan has been prepared that details the procedures to be adopted by the HPBP to ensure appropriate levels of vegetation reestablishment on mine sites. Staged clearing will remove vegetation in 1 ha blocks, which will then be progressively rehabilitated. This will limit the requirement to rely on erosion and sediment controls to restrict sediment laden water leaving site for long periods of time Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases Construction, operation and rehabilitation phases 100 % compliance with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan 100% compliance with the Water Management Plan 100% compliance with Mine Rehabilitation Plan Environmental Monitoring Environmental monitoring will focus on sources of potential pollution during all phases of the HPBP. This will direct monitoring efforts to the erosion and sediment control structures, and will include: Weekly inspection of erosion and sediment controls to assess adequate implementation and effective control Inspection of erosion and sediment controls after rainfall events. Ongoing implementation of the Water Management Plan (surface and groundwater monitoring) will provide additional supporting information to confirm the adequacy of the implementation of the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan. Failure to comply with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, the Water Management Plan and the Mine Rehabilitation Plan will trigger corrective actions Corrective Actions Corrective actions will be implemented in the event that inspections identify a failure to meet performance targets. An incident investigation will be undertaken and appropriate corrective actions documented. Corrective actions will be appropriate to the size, nature and scale of the incident identified Light pollution Environmental Management Activities, Controls and Performance Targets Control measures for the managing the risk of light pollution affecting nesting females and hatchlings can be found in Table 6. Radix Doc ID: Page 27