Licence conditions for pollution studies and reduction program


  

Licence conditions for pollution studies and reduction programs

Summary
 
Licence number: 767
Title: PRP16: Storage Dam Capacity Monitoring System
Start date: 15 May 2023
 
Licence Condition
Background The premises water management system includes two sediment retention dams: the “Settling Pond” and the “Turkey’s Nest Dam” (the Dams).  Contaminated water from the mine, coal processing areas, stockpiles and stockpiling areas report to the dams.  The water management system was unable to consistently manage the water flows and sediment loads during wet weather in 2021 and 2022.  Coal accumulating in the dams reduced the available storage volume and increased the number of discharge events during 2021 and 2022.  This condition requires the licensee to propose a sediment and water monitoring system to inform and help facilitate improved dam management practices. Requirements Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the EPA: 1.  By 15 June 2023 the licensee must develop and submit a proposal for a dam capacity monitoring system to the EPA.  The proposal must include a methodology to determine the available dam volume for capture and storage of water in real time.  The methodology must be able to continuously monitor the depth and quantity of solids and water in both Dams.  The methodology must account for providing representative information on sediment levels across both dams. 2.  A due date for the operational system will be added to this licence following submission of the above methodology. Notes: 1. The EPA anticipates this system will be integrated with other existing and proposed real time monitoring systems at the premises and will be utilised in broader management plan(s) for water management at the premises. 2. The EPA proposes to add further conditions in relation to dam management following the completion of other PRPs at the premises. Due Dates:   1 System Methodology: 15 June 2023 2 System Commissioning: 31 August 2023  3 Integration with Real Time Monitoring System: 30 September 2023