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Environmental Management Plan

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub

DRAFT

RTIO-HSE-0336947

Hamersley Iron Pty Limited

152-158 St Georges Terrace, Perth

GPO Box A42, Perth WA 6837

Disclaimer and Limitation

This Environmental Management Plan has been prepared by Rio Tinto’s Iron Ore group (Rio Tinto), on behalf of Hamersley Iron Pty Limited (the Proponent), specifically for the Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Proposal. Neither the report nor its contents may be referred to without the express approval of Rio Tinto, unless the report has been released for referral and assessment of proposals.

Document Status

Rev Author Reviewer/s Date Approved for Issue

To Whom Date

1 Rio Tinto Approvals, HSES, Ops Environment October 2019 DWER – EPAS 31 October 2019

2 Rio Tinto Approvals, HSES, Ops Environment March 2020 DWER – EPAS 16 March 2020

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 iii

SUMMARY

This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared by Rio Tinto on behalf of Hamersley Iron Pty Limited (the Proponent) for the Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Proposal (the Proposal). This EMP specifically addresses management of following key environmental factors associated with the Proposal:

• Flora and vegetation:

o Threatened species Aluta quadrata.

• Terrestrial fauna:

o High value habitat for Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) speciesrecorded from the Development Envelope, Ghost Bat (Macroderma gigas); Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia); Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus); and Pilbara OlivePython (Liasis olivaceus barroni).

• Inland Waters:

o Pools of local significance, Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs and their associated riparianvegetation.

o the riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek.

Summary Table 1 below presents the environmental outcome or objective for each environmental factor to be met through implementation of this EMP, as well as the environmental criteria and management targets to measure achievement of the associated environmental outcomes and objectives.

Summary Table 1: Environmental criteria to measure achievement of environmental outcomes and objectives

Proposal title Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub

Proponent Hamersley Iron Pty Ltd

Purpose of this EMP This EMP provides management for environmental values with the potential to be impacted by the Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Proposal.

Flora and Vegetation –Threatened Flora (Aluta quadrata) EPA Objective: To protect flora and vegetation so that biological diversity and ecological integrity are maintained.

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Environmental outcome

The Proponent will ensure no direct impacts from the Proposal on the Western Range population of Aluta quadrata within the mining exclusion zone.

Trigger criteria

1. Disturbance reaches 80 percent (%) of that proposed to the mapped Western RangeAluta quadrata population within the buffer zone.

OR

2. Direct disturbance within 15 m of the mapped Western Range Aluta quadratapopulation within the mining exclusion zone.

Threshold criteria

1. Direct disturbance to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within themining exclusion zone.

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 iv

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Condition environmental objective

The Proponent shall minimise indirect impacts from the Proposal, as far as practicable, to the Western Range Aluta quadrata population.

Management targets

1. Minimise decline in condition and/or cover due to indirect impacts to the mappedWestern Range Aluta quadrata population within the buffer zone, as far as practicable

2. Prevent indirect impacts to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata populationwithin the mining exclusion zone, as far as practicable

3. Improve knowledge of habitat preferences and biological functioning of Aluta quadrata

Terrestrial Fauna – Ghost bat (Macroderma gigas) EPA Objective: To maintain representation, diversity, viability and ecological function at the species, population and assemblage level.

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The Proponent shall maintain the structural integrity of Ghost bat roosts retained in the Development Envelope, including the establishment of mining restriction zones surrounding roosts within 300 m of mine pit (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

Trigger criteria

1. Pit crest encroaches within 20 m of a Ghost bat mining restriction zones (around Caves6, 16, 17 and 18).

OR 2. Vibration levels exceeds 50 mm/s peak particle velocity at retained Ghost bat roosts

within 300 m of mine pit (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).OR 3. Decline in visual structural integrity of any retained Ghost bat roosts (caves 2, 6, 7, 8, 9,

10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18), attributable to the Proposal.

Threshold criteria

1. Pit crest intersects a Ghost bat mining restriction zones (around caves 6, 16, 17 and18).

OR 2. Collapse of a Ghost bat roost (caves 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18)

attributable to the Proposal.

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Environmental objective

Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Ghost bat population and utilisation of high value habitat on Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

Management target

1. Estimate the local population of Ghost bats in the Development Envelope.2. Indicate how Ghost bats use caves within the Development Envelope (e.g. diurnal

versus maternal).

Terrestrial Fauna –Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia): Maternity roost EPA Objective: To maintain representation, diversity, viability and ecological function at the species, population and assemblage level.

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The Proponent will maintain the structural integrity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs).

Trigger criteria

1. Disturbance within mining exclusion zone surrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed batpermanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs)

OR 2. Decline in visual structural integrity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal

roost (Ratty Springs), attributable to the Proposal.

Threshold criteria

1. Disturbance within mining exclusion zone surrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed batpermanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs), which causes structural damage to the cave,attributable to the Proposal.

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 v

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d Environmental objective

Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat population and utilisation of maternity roost near Ratty Springs Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

Management target

1. Estimate the local population of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bats using the permanent maternityroost, and assessment over time to identify significant change

Hydrological Processes, Inland Waters EPA Objective: To maintain the hydrological regimes and quality of groundwater and surface water so that environmental values are protected.

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The Proponent will ensure no adverse impact to Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge and their associated Riparian vegetation as a result of the Proposal. The Proponent will ensure there are no adverse impacts to the riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek as a result of the Proposal.

Trigger criteria

Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and their associated riparian vegetation

1. Pool surface water level at Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs, fall below historicallyrecorded natural range during wet season monitoring in comparison to reference sites.

2. Indicator overstorey canopy stand as associated with Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springshave fallen below MSAVI value of 0.32, in comparison to reference sites.

Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek

1. Overstorey canopy area within zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek that is below the MSAVIbaseline 5th percentile has increased by10 per cent or more than reference areas.

Threshold criteria

Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and their associated riparian vegetation

1. Pool surface water level at Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs fall below historicallyrecorded natural range during wet season monitoring, during two (2) wet seasonmonitoring events, compared to reference sites, natural variation, predicted impactsand attributable to Proposal.

OR

2. Significant structural or compositional change to key riparian species associated withRatty Springs and Doggers Gorge compared to reference sites, and attributable toProposal.

Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek.

1. MSAVI exceedance of trigger criterion 1 and trend for canopy decline continues overfour (4) consecutive monitoring events over fifty (50) percent (%) of zone 1 of SevenMile creek with no evidence of seasonal recovery and outside of variation observedduring long-term baseline period.

OR

2. Significant structural or compositional change to channel and terrace riparian habitatsof zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek, in comparison to baseline and trends different toreference sites.

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 vii

Table of Contents

1. CONTEXT, SCOPE AND RATIONALE 1 1.1 Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub 1 1.1 Key Environmental Factors 1 1.2 Condition Requirements 7 1.3 Approach 7 1.4 Management Rationale 7

2. EMP PROVISIONS 14 2.1 Monitoring 24 2.2 Reporting 31

3. ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT AND REVIEW OF THIS EMP 31

4. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION 31

5. REFERENCES 35

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 viii

Tables

Table 1-1: Key environmental factors, associated environmental values, and potential impacts from the Proposal as addressed in this EMP (as per the SPER model1). ........................................................................ 4

Table 1-2: Rationale for choice of provisions. ................................................................................................ 8

Table 2-1: EMP Provisions – Flora and Vegetation (Threatened Species - Aluta quadrata) ..................... 15

Table 2-2: EMP Provisions – Threatened Fauna (Ghost bat roost) ............................................................. 17

Table 2-3: EMP Provisions – Threatened Fauna (Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternity roost) ... 19

Table 2-4: EMP Provisions – Inland Waters: Dewatering ............................................................................. 21

Table 2-5: EMP Provisions- Inland Waters: Dewatering ............................................................................... 23

Table 3-1: Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Project EMP Reporting ......................................................... 32

Figures

Figure 1-1: Location of the Proposal Figure 1-2: Development Envelope and conceptual footprint ............ 2

Figure 1-3: EMP Management zones of Greater Paraburdoo. ......................................................................... 13

Figure 2-1 Mapped Western Range population of Aluta quadrata with mine exclusion zone and buffer

zone (overview, Map 1 and Map 2). .................................................................................................................... 25

Figure 2-2 Monitoring of Ghost bat and Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat roosts ..................................................... 28

Figure 2-3 Monitoring of Ratty Springs and its associated Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek ..... 29

Figure 2-4 Monitoring of pools of local significance within and adjacent to the Development Envelope.. 30

Appendices

Appendix 1: Framework for the Development of Rio Tinto Environmental Management Plans

Appendix 2: Summary of Risk Assessment for Assignment of Management Zone

Appendix 3: Detailed Descriptions of Proposed Monitoring Programs

Figure 1-2: Development Envelope and conceptual footprint ..........................................................................3

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 ix

Abbreviations

ACAR Annual Compliance Assessment Report

BC Act Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016

Buffer zone The area between the northern boundary of the Aluta quadrata mining exclusion zone and proposed conceptual footprint; minimum of 30 m wide.

DWER Department of Water and Environmental Regulation

EMP Environment Management Plan

EP Act Environmental Protection Act 1986

EPA Environmental Protection Authority

EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

ERD Environmental Review Document

Framework for EMPs Rio Tinto Framework for development of EMPs as described in Appendix 1.

Management zone Level of management appropriate for an environmental value, as determined by risk assessment described in the Rio Tinto Framework for EMPs

Mining exclusion zones

1. Area excluded from all Proposal activities surrounding 79% of the Aluta quadratapopulation at Western Range.

2. Area excluded from all Proposal activities, 100 m surrounding Pilbara Leaf-nosedbat permanent maternity roost (Ratty Springs).

Mining restriction zones Area of 100 m surrounding Ghost bat caves 6, 16, 17 and 18 on Western Range, with restrictions for Proposal activities.

MNES Matter of National Environmental Significance

Proponent Hamersley Iron Pty Ltd

Proposal Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Proposal

SPER A ‘causal pathway conceptual model’ (Pressure, Stressor, Environmental Receptor) approach for potential impacts due to project (refer to Appendix 1).

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Project EMP Rev 2 1

1. CONTEXT, SCOPE AND RATIONALE

This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared by Rio Tinto on behalf of HamersleyIron Pty Limited (the Proponent) for the Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Proposal (the Proposal).This EMP has been developed to address the environmental management of the Proposal, inaccordance with:

• Environmental Impact Assessment (Part IV Divisions 1 and 2) Administrative Procedures 2016(EPA 2016);

• Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) Instructions on how to prepare EnvironmentalProtection Act 1986 Part IV Environmental Management Plans (EPA 2018a);

• Environmental Impact Assessment (Divisions 1 and 2) Procedures Manual (EPA 2018b); and

• Rio Tinto internal conceptual framework for the development of EMPs (Appendix 1).

This EMP is subject to approval by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and will subsequently be implemented.

1.1 Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub

The Proponent manages and operates the existing Paraburdoo and Eastern Range iron ore mines, located approximately 6 kilometers south of the town of Paraburdoo in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia (Figure 1-1). These existing operations, which commenced in 1972 and 2004 respectively, are not subject to a Ministerial Statement issued under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (EP Act). Both operations are regulated through Native Vegetation Clearing Permits and Licenses under Part V of the EP Act and Groundwater Licensing under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (RiWI Act) respectively.

The Proposal includes an expansion to these existing operations and development of a new deposit at Western Range. Figure 1-2 presents the conceptual layout of the Proposal.

The Proposal includes the following key components:

• 4 East Extension (4EE) at Paraburdoo as an extension, in width and depth, of the existing 4Ebelow water table (BWT) pit, including new dewatering of the Wittenoom Formation;

• development of new above water table (AWT) pits at Paraburdoo – 14-16 West (14-16W), 20West (20W) and 27 West (27W);

• development of new AWT pits at Eastern Range – 42 East Extension (42EE) and 47 East (47E);and

• development of AWT and BWT pits at Western Range - 36W to 66W.

This EMP has been developed to address the environmental management of the Proposal, including the activities described above. Activities that are part of the existing mining operations at Paraburdoo and Eastern Range do not form part of the Proposal, and therefore management of these is not included in this EMP.

1.1 Key Environmental Factors The key environmental factors relevant to the Proposal, as identified in the Environmental Review Document (Rio Tinto 2019) and addressed in this EMP, are described in Table 1-1.


Figure 1-1: Location of the Proposal


Figure 1-2: Development Envelope and conceptual footprint


Table 1-1: Key environmental factors, associated environmental values, and potential impacts from the Proposal as addressed in this EMP (as per the SPER model1).

Environmental value (environmental receptor)

Proposed and potential impacts (stressor, pressure, environmental receptor1)

Direct (stressor, pressure) Indirect (stressor, pressure)

Flora and Vegetation

Threatened Flora:

Aluta quadrata

Proposed Clearing

• Loss of individuals from the Western Range A.quadrata population (13.7% of total knownwithin Western Australia).

Sedimentation

• Deposition of sediment due to pit and mineral waste dump construction activities.

Hydrology

• Changes to hydrologic regime (available surface water) as a result of altered landforms.

Introduced Flora2

• Weed species outcompeting individuals of the Western Range population.

Terrestrial Fauna

Ghost bat (Macroderma gigas) and high-value habitat

Proposed Clearing

• Removal of five Ghost bat roosts.

• Loss of high value habitat.

Hydrogeology / Hydrology

• Reduction in surface fed pools at Western and Eastern Range (predicted) due to reduced catchment;addressed in inland waters.

• Reduced water availability due to dewatering at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge (not predicted tooccur): addressed in inland waters

Change in structure of caves

• Blasting and/or mine pit development inadvertently generate new openings at the back of caves whichchanges the microclimate (i.e. temperature and humidity).

Vibration

• Blasting may cause structural damage to roost caves that are to be retained in the DevelopmentEnvelope.

General activities resulting in increased presence of introduced flora and fauna, noise, dust, light and fauna interactions3

• Changes to the environment from general activities may influence/change behaviour, and or use ofhabitats in the Development Envelope.

1 A ‘casual pathway conceptual model’ (Stressor, Pressure, Environmental Receptor [SPER]) approach for potential impacts due to project (Appendix 1). 2 The weed species targeted is Kapok Bush (*Aerva javanica). Considering habitat preference *Aerva javanica is considered most likely to compete with A. quadrata. 3 Potential impacts to MNES fauna species from general activities are managed through internal procedures, as described in Section 2.1 and Appendix 3 (Table A-7).





Terrestrial Fauna

Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat (Rhinonicteris aurantia) and high-value habitat

Proposed clearing



• Reduction in surface fed pools at Western and Eastern range (predicted) due to reduced catchment;addressed in inland waters.


Vibration

• Blasting may cause structural damage to caves that are to be retained in the Development Envelope(not predicted to occur).

General activities resulting in increased presence of introduced flora and fauna, noise, dust, light and fauna interactions4

• Changes to the environment from general activities may influence/change bat behaviour, or use ofcaves, in the Development Envelope.

Terrestrial Fauna

Northern Quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) and high-value habitat

Proposed clearing4



• Reduction in surface fed pools at Western and Eastern range (predicted) to due reduced catchment;addressed in inland waters.


General activities resulting in increased presence of introduced flora and fauna, noise, dust, light and fauna interactions


Terrestrial Fauna

Pilbara Olive Python habitat (Liasis olivaceus barroni) and high-value habitat

Proposed clearing4



• Reduction in surface fed pools at Western and Eastern range (predicted) due to reduced catchment;addressed in inland waters.


General activities resulting in increased presence of introduced flora and fauna, noise, dust, light and fauna interactions 4


4 Potential impacts to MNES fauna species from general activities are managed through internal procedures, as described in Section 2.1 and Appendix 3 (Table A-7).





Inland Waters

Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek outside of Development Envelope

Proposed Dewatering regime

• No direct impacts predicted.

Hydrogeology/ Hydrology

• Reduction in water availability due to dewatering may cause decline in riparian vegetation outside of theDevelopment Envelope (not predicted to occur).


1.2 Condition Requirements The Proposal is currently being assessed under Part IV of the EP Act and Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Considering the information provided in the ERD (Rio Tinto, 2019), this EMP proposes environmental monitoring and management to ensure environmental outcomes are achieved.

1.3 Approach

This EMP was drafted in accordance with the Rio Tinto conceptual framework for the development of Environmental Management Plans (Appendix 1). This risk-based approach to management considers the conservation significance of the receptor based on conservation status at local, state and regional levels. Management level (low, moderate or high) is assigned in order to achieve the environmental objective according to the conservation significance of the environmental value and the risk of impact predicted over spatial and temporal scales (Figure 1-3). Assessment of the pathways over which impacts may occur provides the rationale for choice of provisions and appropriate indicators to measure against the environmental outcome or objective.

This EMP provides provisions for potential impacts to environmental values specific to the Proposal. However, where existing internal procedures provide appropriate management of potential impacts, no further measures or provisions have been developed. During the development of this EMP it was determined, with consideration of risks, that potential impacts to MNES fauna species from general operational activities (i.e. introduced flora and fauna, dust, light, noise and fauna interactions) can be effectively managed through existing internal procedures, as described in Section 2.1 and Appendix 3 (Table A-8).

1.4 Management Rationale

This EMP adopts a combination of outcome-based and management-based provisions, in order to achieve the proposed environmental outcomes.

Outcome-based provisions are applied where a sufficient level of information exists to establish objective and measurable criteria (EPA 2018a). Environmental criteria are defined to assess performance against the environmental outcome. These are:

Trigger criteria Measures set at a conservative level to forewarn the approach of threshold criteria, and ensure trigger level actions are implemented well in advance of the environmental outcome being compromised.

Threshold criteria Framed to represent the limit of acceptable impact beyond which there is likely to be a significant effect on the environment. This indicates there is risk that the environmental outcome will not be met.

Management-based provisions are applied where a level of uncertainty exists that prevents setting objective and measurable criteria. In this case, management targets are established to measure success of management actions in achieving the environmental outcome.

Complementary provisions (including both outcome and management-based) may be applied to address values where a High5 level of management is required, and/or a degree of uncertainty and complexity exists. The rationale for the choice of provisions is provided in Table 1-2.

5 According to the Framework for the development of Rio Tinto EMPs (Appendix 1).


Table 1-2: Rationale for choice of provisions.

Current knowledge and description of impacts Key assumptions and uncertainties Rationale for choice of provision

Environmental value: Threatened flora Aluta quadrata

Level of Management6: High

Key surveys and studies: Astron (2018a); Astron (2018b); DBCA (2019a); Rio Tinto (2019)

Aluta quadrata (Schedule 2; Endangered under the BC Act 2016 is restricted to a banded ironstone formation. A total of 41,136 individuals are known from three genetically distinct populations: Western Range (28,684 individuals); Paraburdoo (1,017 individuals); and Channar (11,435 individuals) (DBCA 2019, Rio Tinto 2019).

All recorded populations occur on live mining tenements with active mining operations. The A. quadrata population at Channar occurs in the closest proximity to existing operations and population size has remained stable since operations commenced, with plants persisting adjacent to and downstream of the mining operation. Further, some individuals appear to occur in areas of historic disturbance.

Of the known individuals, 72% occur within the Proposal Development Envelope including the entire Western Range and Paraburdoo populations. The Proposal conceptual footprint has been designed to reduce impacts to this species. The population at Paraburdoo is not predicted to be impacted by the Proposal.

Total impact from the Proposal is predicted to be the loss of up to 5,646 individuals from the Western Range population (12.2 % of total known within WA). This includes the direct loss of approximately 5,179 individuals from within the conceptual footprint.

To ensure no further direct impacts to the A. quadrata population at Western Range, a mining exclusion zone will be implemented around 79% of known individuals at Western Range. A buffer zone, between the northern boundary of the mining exclusion zone and the proposed conceptual footprint (minimum of 30 m), will be used to manage indirect impacts (Table 1.1.). It is predicted that up to 467 individuals within the buffer zone will be lost as a result of indirect impacts.

Assumptions

The response to adjacent mining activities will be similar to that observed at Channar, with the population remaining stable

Uncertainties

Limited studies regarding the biology and ecology of A. quadrata, and limited research on the regenerative capacity of the species, such as seed trials and propagation.

To address the high level of management required for the Aluta quadrata population at Western Range both outcome and management-based provisions have been applied:

• Environmental outcome: The Proponent will ensure no direct impacts from the Proposal on the Western Rangepopulation of Aluta quadrata within the mining exclusion zone.

• Environmental objective: The Proponent will minimize indirect impacts from the Proposal, as far as practicable,to the Mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population.

The intent of the environmental outcome is to ensure that the population within the mining exclusion zone is not directly impacted by the Proposal. This is easily measureable and reportable; therefore, an outcome-based provision was suitable.

The environmental objective aims to minimise indirect impacts on the mapped A. quadrata population at Western Range. The effect of indirect impacts is not easily measureable and therefore a management-based provision has been applied. To address this objective, two zones on Western Range have been identified; the buffer zone and mining exclusion zone. It is predicted that indirect impacts on individuals will be experienced in the buffer zone (up to 467 individuals), and management actions have been designed to monitor and minimise the influence of these as far practicable. Indirect impacts are considered less likely to influence individuals in the mining exclusion zone than in the buffer zone. Therefore, management targets and actions have been assigned to respond to observed impacts in the buffer zone, to prevent or reduce their influence on individuals in the mining exclusion zone.

In addition, a second environmental objective has been applied:

• Environmental objective: Improve knowledge of habitat preferences and biological functioning of Alutaquadrata.

This environmental objective aims to increase the current understanding of Aluta quadrata, in order to provide supporting data for assessment of the above outcomes and objectives, and to inform adaptive management.

The criteria and targets presented in Table 2-2 will be updated as required with consideration of additional baseline data and adaptive management.

6 Summary of risk assessment for determination of management zone provided in Appendix 2, as per Framework for the development of Rio Tinto EMPs (Appendix 1). Management zones determined for the Development Envelope are presented in Figure 1-3.



Environmental value: Ghost bat and roosts

Level of Management7: Moderate

Key surveys and studies: Astron (2018c); Astron (2018d);Astron (2019);Rio Tinto (2019)

Evidence of Ghost bats have been recorded from 18 caves within the Development Envelope. This species is listed as Vulnerable pursuant to the EBPC Act and the BC Act, and is a Matter of National Environmental Significance (MNES).

The Proposal will result in the removal of five of the 18 Ghost bat roosts occurring within the Development Envelope. The Proposal will avoid all impacts to the remaining 13 Ghost bat roosts in the Development Envelope, comprising:

• one confirmed maternal roost (cave 6);

• three potential maternal roosts (caves 11, 15 and 18);

• two confirmed diurnal roosts (caves 14 and 16); and

• five potential diurnal roosts (caves 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12 and 17).

Four Ghost bat roosts occur within 300 m of the conceptual mine pit (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18). The mine design incorporates 100 m mining restriction zones from these Ghost Bat caves to avoid direct disturbance, minimise the impact of blasting and associated vibration on the structure and quality of roosts and protect the integrity of the habitat values of these caves. A Blast Management Plan will be implemented to manage vibration from blasting to ensure the structural integrity of significant caves is maintained throughout the life of the mining. Some disturbance from mining operations (i.e. material spillage and rilling from drill and blast activities) may extend into the Mining Restriction Zones, however, the mining pit crest will not.

Mitigation of indirect impacts from general activities, (including increased presence of introduced flora and fauna, noise, dust and light), are largely managed through existing internal procedures..

Impacts to retained caves greater than 300 m from the conceptual mine pit are not expected. These include caves 2, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 15.

Considering impacts to Ghost Bat caves and the mitigation strategies employed, the Proposal is not expected to cause a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of this species (Rio Tinto 2019).

Assumptions

Protection of roosting habitat will enable the persistence of Ghost bats within the Development Envelope.

Uncertainties

Limited data on the sensitivity of the Ghost bat to noise and vibration.

Limited understanding of the long-term behaviour of Ghost bats in relation to use of roosts and movement between, or abandonment of roosts.

A moderate management classification is considered appropriate to manage impacts (direct and indirect) to Ghost bats and their roosts which occur throughout the Development Envelope. Outcome-based and management-based provisions will achieve this:

• Environmental outcome: The Proponent shall maintain the structural integrity of all retained Ghost bat roosts inthe Development Envelope, including the establishment of mining restriction zones surrounding caves within300 m of mine pit (Caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

• Environmental objective: The Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Ghost bat population and utilisation ofhigh value habitat on Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

The protection of cave stability and habitat is easily measureable and reportable; therefore, an outcome-based provision was suitable. For caves within 300 m of proposed operations (caves, 6, 16, 17 and 18), this will include the establishment of mining restriction zones and blast management plans. For retained caves greater than 300 m from operations, provisions include visual inspection of stability to ensure no impact, as predicted.

The environmental objective aims to increase knowledge of Ghost bat behaviour in the Development Envelope. Understanding of the use of roosts by Ghost bats is limited, and thus a management-based provision was appropriate. Further, data collected will provide supporting information to assist in the assessment of the success of the environmental outcome.

The criteria and targets presented in Table 2-2 will be updated as required with consideration of additional baseline data and adaptive management.

Potential impacts to other high value habitat (i.e. Doggers Gorge, Ratty Springs and potential permanent surface water fed pools at Western and Eastern Range (Gorge 7 [two pools], Gorge 3 [two pools], ERP3, ERP4) for MNES species is addressed below. Impacts to MNES from general activities (Table 1-1), are managed through internal procedures (Section 2.1 and Appendix 3, Table A 8).




Environmental value: Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat and permanent maternity roost (Ratty Springs)

Level of Management8: Low

Key surveys and studies: Astron (2018c); Astron (2018d); Bat Call (2019a); Biologic (2019a); Astron (2018e)

One permanent colony of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat has been identified within the Development Envelope, in the vicinity of Ratty Springs. The roost supports the continual presence of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat and is considered a high value roost.

No impacts to the structural integrity of the roost from the Proposal are predicted. A Mining Restriction Zone will be established, 100 m around the roost, to ensure protection of the roost and other high value habitat for the bat surrounding it.

To mitigate other indirect impacts to Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bats the Proponent will:

• Direct lighting into the active pits to avoid light spill to adjacent areas of habitat.

• Undertake feral animal control within the Development Envelope.

Considering no impacts to the maternity roost are predicted, the Proposal is not expected to cause a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of the Pilbara leaf-nosed bat (Rio Tinto 2019).

Assumptions

Protection of maternity roost and water source (Ratty Springs) will enable the persistence of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat within the Development Envelope.

Uncertainties

Limited data on the sensitivity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat to noise and vibration.

Limited understanding of the long-term behaviour of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat in relation to movement between roosts.

Considering the Proposal is not predicted to impact the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternity roost, a low management level is considered appropriate to confirm this. This will be achieved through an outcome-based provision with the following environmental outcome:

• The Proponent will maintain the structural integrity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat maternity roost (RattySprings).

Protection of the maternity roost through the establishment of a mining exclusion zone, is easily measureable and reportable, therefore an outcome-based provision was suitable.

In addition, an environmental objective has been applied:

• The Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat population and utilisation of maternityroost near Ratty Springs Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

The environmental objective aims to increase knowledge of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat behaviour in the Development Envelope. Understanding of the use of roosts by individuals is limited, and thus a management-based provision was appropriate. Further, data collected will provide supporting information to assist in the assessment of the success of the environmental outcome.

The criteria and targets presented in Table 2-2 are draft and will be updated as required with consideration of additional baseline data and adaptive management.

Potential impacts to other high value habitat (i.e. Doggers Gorge, Ratty Springs and potential permanent surface water fed pools at Western and Eastern Range (Gorge 7 [two pools], Gorge 3 [two pools], ERP3, ERP4) for MNES species is addressed below. Impacts to MNES from general activities (Table 1-1), are managed through internal procedures (Section 2.1 and Appendix 3, Table A-7).




Environmental value: Ratty Springs, Dogger’s Gorge and associated riparian vegetation

Level of Management: Low

Key surveys and studies: Astron (2018c); Astron (2018d); Bat Call (2019a); Biologic (2019a); Astron (2018e).

The Proposal will result in clearing of up to 342 ha of high value habitat for Ghost bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat, Northern Quoll and Pilbara Olive Python, comprising Riverine, Gorge/gully and Breakaway.

The Development Envelope contains semi-permanent surface water at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge.

Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge is known to support drinking and foraging for MNES fauna species, including during the dry season.

Considering the mitigation strategies employed (including mining exclusion zones and Mining Restriction Zones around bat roosts), the proposed clearing of high value habitat is not expected to cause a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019). Therefore, proposed clearing of high value habitat is not addressed in this EMP.

Altered surface water regime may impact surface water fed pools within the development envelope due to land form change and potential impact will be informed by monitoring of pools located within the Western Range and Eastern Range.

Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge, however, is considered a significant habitat feature for MNES fauna in the Development Envelope and this EMP includes monitoring to confirm that Proposal dewatering does not impact this habitat.

Assumptions

Retention of high value habitat will enable the persistence of MNES fauna within the Development Envelope.

Uncertainties

Limited regional data to assist in understanding habitat utilisation.

Considering the Proposal is not predicted to impact surface water at Ratty Springs, nor its associated riparian vegetation, a low management level is considered appropriate to confirm this. This will be achieved through an outcome-based provision with the following environmental outcome:

• The Proponent will ensure no adverse impact to Ratty Springs and its associated riparian vegetation as a resultof dewatering for the Proposal.

Monitoring of surface water level at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge, and the associated Riparian vegetation will inform retention of high value habitat for terrestrial (MNES) fauna at Greater Paraburdoo.

Water levels at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge and associated riparian overstorey monitoring are easily measureable and reportable, therefore an outcome-based provision was suitable for this environmental value.

Complementary provisions have been proposed as Early Warning criteria for groundwater levels in vicinity of Ratty Springs. This criterion is based on long-term groundwater monitoring (2001 – 2019) and have been set a level sufficient to identify if additional impacts may occur, with time to implement response actions. Complementary provisions have been set for potential permanent surface water fed pools to ensure early warning criteria can inform predicted impacts to high value fauna habitat.

Further, surplus water quality monitoring will be undertaken at surface water fed pools within the Development Envelope (Western Range Gorges 10 and 7 and the Eastern Range Pool (ERP4) and at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge to support the trigger and threshold monitoring and criteria.

Early warning, trigger and threshold criteria will be updated as required with the consideration to additional baseline data and adaptive management.



Environmental value: Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile creek

Level of Management9: Low

Key surveys and studies: Astron (2018a); Astron (2018b); Rio Tinto (2019); Rio Tinto (2018a)

Investigations undertaken on behalf of Rio Tinto identified 21 riparian vegetation units within the Development Envelope (Rio Tinto 2019), none of these listed Threatened or Priority Ecological Communities.

Along Seven Mile Creek, five riparian vegetation units rated likely to be groundwater dependent were identified along the area of potential dewatering impact within the Wittenoom formation, and is predicted to influence groundwater levels in the alluvial aquifer of Seven Mile Creek (north of the Mt McRae Shale band that intersects Seven Mile Creek).

The value of the riparian vegetation (GDE) within the area of modelled dewatering extent has been degraded (at some areas) as a result from existing operations. Further, it is not expected that the proposed impacts will result in a significant residual impact (Rio Tinto 2019).

Two of these vegetation units are in a “high risk zone” of potential dewatering impact risk expected to experience canopy decline and increased mortality; this occurs along 1.5 km of Seven Mile Creek upstream of the Mt McRae Shale barrier. Beyond this, the potential for the riparian vegetation on Seven Mile Creek to be impacted by groundwater abstraction is considered to be less significant.

Given the historic disturbance and current riparian condition (i.e. vegetation has historically been “augmented” from surplus water availability) within the development envelope, the key environmental value proposed to be managed under this EMP is the riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek beyond the maximum drawdown extent outside the development envelope (Figure 2-3, Appendix 3). This is to ensure proposed impacts are not greater than predicted (Rio Tinto 2019).

Assumptions

The groundwater levels in the dewatered aquifer will be lowered by up to ~160 m over approximately 16 years from groundwater abstraction for the 4EE dewatering bore field, and will result in a reduction of groundwater levels in Seven Mile Creek Aquifer. This aquifer will be periodically recharged during high rainfall events. Groundwater levels are expected to recover following cessation of dewatering.

Uncertainties

Uncertainty exists of impact to the alluvial aquifer in Seven Mile Creek north of the Mt McRae Shale and includes the limited understanding of the hydraulic connectivity between the Wittenoom formation and the alluvial aquifer, the depths of the alluvial aquifer and the natural variability of recharge in the alluvial aquifer of Seven Mile Creek during flood events.

To address the low level of management required for riparian vegetation at Seven Mile Creek within zone 1 (Figure 2-3), outcome based provisions have been applied with the following environmental outcome:

• The Proponent will ensure no adverse impact to riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek outside theDevelopment Envelope as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.

The intent of the environmental outcome is to ensure that the riparian vegetation and its composition at Seven Mile creek, outside the modelled cone of dewatering, will not be adversely impacted due to the Proposal. Table 1-1 presents the pathways by which additional impacts from the Proposal may affect the riparian communities, and the indicators to monitor these. Trigger criteria (Table 2-4 and Appendix 3) have been set a level sufficient to identify if impacts may occur, with time to implement response actions and prevent threshold criteria being met (Table 2-5).

The health of overstorey canopy will be assessed from analysis of annual satellite imagery capture and a vegetation health index (MSAVI), which will provide an indicator of potential adverse impact to riparian vegetation. Additional transect monitoring will be undertaken as triggered to ground-truth and further investigate potential decline seen from remote sensing metrics.

Complementary provisions have been proposed as Early Warning criteria for groundwater levels to indicate potential indirect impacts from dewatering to the riparian vegetation of zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek.

Early warning, trigger and threshold criteria will be updated as required with the consideration to additional baseline data and adaptive management.

9 Summary of risk assessment for determination of management zone provided in Appendix 2, as per Framework for the development of Rio Tinto EMPs (Appendix 1). Management zones determined for the Development Envelope are presented in Figure 1-3


Figure 1-3: EMP Management zones of Greater Paraburdoo.


2. EMP PROVISIONS

This section of the EMP identifies the provisions that the Proponent will implement to ensure that thedefined environmental outcomes and objectives are met during implementation of the Proposal.Outcome- and management-based provisions are detailed in Table 2-1 to Table 2-5, while theassociated monitoring and reporting are detailed in Sections 2.1 and 2.2.

Trigger and threshold criteria have been assigned a “draft” status and will be updated to “final” oncebaseline data collection has been completed.

The EMP will be updated to align with the adaptive management approach (refer to Section 3).


Table 2-1: EMP Provisions – Flora and Vegetation (Threatened Species - Aluta quadrata)

Flora and Vegetation (Conservation Significant Flora)

EPA Objective: To protect flora and vegetation so that biological diversity and ecological integrity are maintained.

Key Environmental values: Threatened species, Aluta quadrata. Key Impacts and risks: Inadvertent clearing of individuals and potential degradation of remaining population as a result of implementation of the Proposal

Outcome-based provisions

Outcome: The Proponent will ensure no direct impacts from the Proposal on the Western Range population of Aluta quadrata within the mining exclusion zone (Figure 2-1).

HIGH MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Environmental Criteria Response Action Monitoring Reporting

Trigger10 Criterion:

1. Disturbance reaches 80 percent (%) of that proposed tothe mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata populationwithin the buffer zone11.

OR

2. Direct disturbance within 15 m of the mapped WesternRange Aluta quadrata population within the miningexclusion zone.

Investigate potential cause of exceedance by review of:

• drill and blast activities;

• internal incident reports relating to clearing;

• mine plan; and

• monitoring and supporting data (including monitoring for management actions and assessment ofindirect impacts).

If investigations indicate that the trigger exceedance is due to the Proposal, implement trigger level actions, for example:

• revise drill and blast procedures;

• update any clearing procedures;

• reassess work practices and training needs; and

• monitor to ensure control measures have been successful.

If assessments indicate threshold criteria likely to be exceeded and due to the Proposal then consult with DWER and other relevant stakeholders to investigate further contingency actions.

• Annual land clearing reconciliation against conceptualfootprint utilising GIS layers.

• Annual review of internal incident reporting, and internalapprovals request process.

• Supporting data: monitoring described for management-based provisions and targeted monitoring, as appropriate.

• The environmental outcome will be reported againstthe trigger criteria for each calendar year by 30 April inthe annual compliance assessment reporting (ACAR).

• If any trigger criterion was exceeded during thereporting period, the ACAR will discuss potentialreasons for exceedance of the trigger criterion andinclude a description of the effectiveness of trigger levelactions

Threshold Criterion:

1. Direct disturbance to the mapped Western Range Alutaquadrata population within the mining exclusion zone.

Implement previously determined threshold contingency actions within twenty-four (24) hours, for example:

• implement revised pit development method;

• rehabilitation; or

• measures as agreed by relevant stakeholders.

Continue to implement threshold contingency actions until the CEO has confirmed by notice in writing that it has been demonstrated that the impact is below the threshold and trigger criteria.

Monitor to validate success of Threshold contingency actions.

• Notify the CEO within 7 days and provide a reportwithin 21 days of the non-compliance being known

• The environmental outcome will be reported againstthe threshold criterion for each calendar year in theACAR

• If the threshold criterion was exceeded during thereporting period, the ACAR will include a description ofthe effectiveness of threshold contingency action/s thathave been implemented to manage the potentialimpact

10 Criteria has been assigned to be “draft” status and will be updated to final once baseline period is completed (refer to section 3). 11 Buffer zone includes the area between the northern boundary of the mining exclusion zone and proposed conceptual footprint; minimum of 30 m wide. Loss of approximately 467 was predicted in the buffer zone.


Flora and Vegetation (Conservation Significant Flora)

EPA Objective: To protect flora and vegetation so that biological diversity and ecological integrity are maintained.

Key Environmental values: Threatened species, Aluta quadrata. Key Impacts and risks: Inadvertent clearing of individuals and potential degradation of remaining population as a result of implementation of the Proposal

Management -based provisions

HIGH MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Objective: The Proponent will minimize indirect impacts from the Proposal, as far as practicable, to the Mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population (Figure 2-1).

Management targets Management Actions Monitoring12 Reporting

1. Minimise decline in condition and/or cover due to indirectimpacts to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadratapopulation within the buffer zone, as far as practicable.

2. Measure area and extent of deposition resulting from pit development on thesouthern edge of the Western Range pit (including spillage from drill and blastactivities, rilling, and sedimentation)

3. Measure downstream hydraulic regime in priority gullies on Western Rangeassociated with the Western Range Aluta quadrata population.

4. Conduct weed species surveys and implement control measures, asappropriate.

5. Conduct vegetation condition surveys, and consider results against datacollected for indirect impacts in the Western Range buffer zone.

1. Deposition monitoring within buffer zone: Quarterly imagery capture (e.g. with satellite and/oraerial imagery).

2. Hydraulic monitoring at Western Range13: Quarterly, or as triggered by rainfall event, imagecapture (UAV, satellite), and/or loggers in priority pools.

3. Targeted flora surveys within the buffer zone.

4. Conduct vegetation condition surveys on Aluta quadrata in targeted areas within the bufferzone.

• The environmental outcome will be reportedagainst the management target for eachcalendar year by 30 April in the ACAR.

• If the management target was not met duringthe reporting period, the annual report willinclude discussion of the effectiveness of themanagement actions and whether revision ofthe management actions is required

2. Prevent indirect impacts to the mapped Western RangeAluta quadrata population within the Mining ExclusionZone, as far as practicable.

1. Use measures of deposition (as per above action #1) to validate modelledextent of deposition. Review model and updates practices, as appropriate.

2. Use measured hydraulic regime (as per above action #2) to confirmmaintenance of hydrological regime. Review and update practices, asappropriate

3. Conduct weed species surveys and implement control measures, asappropriate.

4. Conduct vegetation condition surveys, and consider results against datacollected for indirect impacts in the Western Range Mining Exclusion Zoneand buffer zone.

1. Desktop verification of deposition data collected in the buffer zone (as per above #1), againstmodelled deposition and boundary of Mining Exclusion Zone.

2. Hydraulic monitoring at Western Range: Quarterly, or as triggered by rainfall event, imagecapture (UAV, satellite), and/or loggers in priority pools.

3. Targeted flora surveys within the Mining Exclusion Zone.

4. Conduct vegetation condition surveys on Aluta quadrata in targeted areas within the MiningExclusion Zone.

Objective: The Proponent will improve knowledge of the ecology and biology of Aluta quadrata, to assist with minimisation of impacts.

1. Improve knowledge of habitat preferences and biologicalfunctioning of Aluta quadrata

2. Conduct a three-year research program to investigate the niche habitatcharacteristics preferred by Aluta quadrata.

3. Monitor the three known populations of Aluta quadrata within the GreaterParaburdoo area comprising Western Range, Paraburdoo and Channar

• Annual review of research progress reports and updates.

• Bi-annual transect monitoring14, including observations of Aluta quadrata foliage cover; dustdeposition and the presence of weeds.

• Targeted monitoring, as appropriate.

• The environmental outcome will be reportedagainst the management target for eachcalendar year by 30 April in the ACAR.

• If the management target was not met duringthe reporting period, the annual report willinclude discussion of the effectiveness of themanagement actions and whether revision ofthe management actions is required

12 Design of monitoring surveys on Western Range to be confirmed. Priority areas for survey will be selected based on threats, accessibility, progression of development, and locations of Aluta quadrata. 13 The Proponent will update the monitoring as knowledge develops based on empirical observations of hydraulic regime and/or improvements in monitoring methodology. 14 Data collected at Western Range (buffer zone and mining exclusion zone) prior to works will provide baseline data. Data collected at Paraburdoo and Channar will comprise supporting data and where appropriate, be used as reference data.


Table 2-2: EMP Provisions – Threatened Fauna (Ghost bat roost)

Terrestrial fauna – Ghost Bat caves

EPA objectives: To protect terrestrial fauna so that biological diversity and ecological integrity are maintained

Key environmental values: Habitat of conservation significant fauna species – Ghost bat roost

Key impacts and risks: Potential loss or degradation of high value (roosting) habitat as a result of implementation of the Proposal


Outcome: The Proponent shall maintain the structural integrity of all retained Ghost bat roosts in the Development Envelope, including the establishment of mining restriction zones surrounding caves within 300 m of mine pit (Caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

MODERATE MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Environmental criteria15 Response Actions Monitoring Reporting

Trigger criterion:

1. Pit crest encroaches within 20 m of a Ghost batmining restriction zone (around caves 6, 16, 17and 18).

OR

2. Vibration levels exceeds 50 mm/s peak particlevelocity16 at retained Ghost bat roosts within 300m of mine pit (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

OR

3. Decline in visual structural integrity of anyretained Ghost bat roosts (caves 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18), attributable to theProposal.



• in-field inspections (UAV);

• site specific observations: clearing extent, blast vibration predictions;

• blast monitoring levels;

• mine plan;

• temperature and humidity monitoring data to determine if the roost cave microclimate has beencompromised; and

• other data including monitoring including monitoring for relevant management action.

If warranted, implement trigger level actions, for example:


• re-assess work practices and training needs;

• update mine plan;

• cease disturbance in mining restriction zones.

• investigate potential for rehabilitation, or roost construction; and



• Annual land clearing reconciliation against at Ghost bat roosts miningrestriction zones (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18) (Figure 2-2).

• Annual review of internal incident reporting, and internal approvalsrequest process.

• Blast vibration monitoring for all blasts within 300 m of Ghost bat caves 6,16, 17 and 18, event based (Figure 2-2).

• Quarterly visual inspections (UAV or visual) for structural damage, forGhost bat roosts within 300 m of proposed pits (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18)(Figure 2-2).

• Bi-annual visual inspections (UAV) for structural damage of all otherretained Ghost Bat roosts (caves 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, and 15)(Figure 2-2).

• Temperature and humidity monitoring at Ghost bat roosts within 300 m ofactivities (caves 6, 16, 17, 18) and other significant roosts (> 300 m)selected for long-term monitoring (caves 11, 14 and 15)17 (Figure 2-2).

• The environmental outcome will be reported againstthe trigger criteria for each calendar year by 30April in the ACAR.

• If any trigger criterion was exceeded during thereporting period, the ACAR will discuss potentialreasons for exceedance of the trigger criterion andinclude a description of the effectiveness of triggerlevel actions


1. Pit crest intersects a Ghost bat mining restrictionzone (around caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

OR

2. Collapse of any retained Ghost bat roost (caves2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18),attributable to the Proposal.


• cease disturbance within Ghost Bat mining restriction zones;

• cease blasting activities within 300 meters of Ghost Bat caves;

• rehabilitation, or roost construction; and


Continue to implement threshold contingency actions until the CEO has confirmed by notice in writing that is has been demonstrated that the threshold criteria are being met.

Monitor threshold contingency actions to validate success of mitigation strategy.

• Notify the DWER within 7 days of the non-compliance being known and provide a reportwithin 21 days of the non-compliance being known

• The environmental outcome will be reported againstthe threshold criterion for each calendar year in theACAR

• If any the threshold criterion was exceeded duringthe reporting period, the ACAR will include adescription of the effectiveness of thresholdcontingency action/s that have been implementedto manage the potential impact

15 Criteria relating to the abandonment of roosts by Ghost Bats has not been included, as there is currently a limited understanding of the long-term behaviour of Ghost Bats in relation to use of roosts, including movement between, or abandonment of roosts. 16 Peak particle velocity has been set at a conservative level, considering date from other sites. Trigger criteria will be updated according to results of geotechnical assessments. 17 Caves were selected based on previously recorded Ghost bat activity, structure and proximity to potential impacts.


Terrestrial fauna – Ghost Bat caves


Key environmental values: Habitat of conservation significant fauna species – Ghost bat roost

Key impacts and risks: Potential loss or degradation of high value (roosting) habitat as a result of implementation of the Proposal


MEDIUM MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-4)

Objective: The Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Ghost bat population and utilisation of high value habitat on Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

Management targets Management Actions Monitoring Reporting

1. Estimate the local population of Ghost bats inthe Development Envelope.

2. Indicate how Ghost bats use caves within theDevelopment Envelope (e.g. diurnal versusmaternal).

• Undertake on-going monitoring during operation phase of Ghost bat roosts on Western Range.• Bi-annual acoustic monitoring and assessment at significant Ghost bat

roosts18, selected for long term monitoring (Figure 2-2).

• The environmental outcome will be reported againstthe management target for each calendar year by 30April in the ACAR.

• If the management target was not met during thereporting period, the annual report will includediscussion of the effectiveness of the managementactions and whether revision of the managementactions is required.

18 Caves were selected based on analysis of the previous recordings, combined with the physical properties of the caves and the physical presence of Ghost Bats.


Table 2-3: EMP Provisions – Threatened Fauna (Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternity roost)

Terrestrial fauna –Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternity roost (Ratty Springs)


Key environmental values: Habitat of conservation significant fauna species - Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat maternity roost at Ratty Springs.

Key impacts and risks: Potential adverse impact on high value (roosting) habitat as a result of implementation of the Proposal.


Outcome: The Proponent will maintain the structural integrity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs).

LOW MANAGEMENT ZONE(Figure 1-4)

Environmental criteria Response Actions Monitoring Reporting

Trigger criterion:

1. Disturbance within mining restriction zonesurrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanentmaternal roost (Ratty Springs)

OR

2. Decline in visual structural integrity of the PilbaraLeaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (RattySprings), attributable to the Proposal.



• site specific observations: clearing extent, blast vibration predictions;

• mine plan; and

• other data including monitoring, including monitoring for relevant management actions and blastmonitoring levels (Table 2-2).

If warranted, implement trigger level actions, for example:


• re-assess work practices and training needs;

• update mine plan;

• cease disturbance in mining restriction zone.

• investigate potential for rehabilitation, or roost construction; and



• Annual land clearing reconciliation

• Annual review of internal incident reporting, andinternal approvals request process.

• Annual visual inspections (UAV) for structuraldamage to maternity roost (Figure 2-2).

• The environmental outcome will be reported against the triggercriteria for each calendar year by 30 April in the ACAR.

• If any trigger criterion was exceeded during the reporting period,the ACAR will discuss potential reasons for exceedance of thetrigger criterion and include a description of the effectiveness oftrigger level actions


1. Disturbance within mining restriction zonesurrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanentmaternal roost (Ratty Springs), which causesstructural damage to the cave, attributable to theProposal.


• cease disturbance within mining restriction zone;

• rehabilitation, or roost construction; and




• Notify the DWER within 7 days of the non-compliance beingknown and provide a report within 21 days of the non-compliancebeing known

• The environmental outcome will be reported against the thresholdcriterion for each calendar year in the ACAR

• If the threshold criterion was exceeded during the reportingperiod, the ACAR will include a description of the effectiveness ofthreshold contingency action/s that have been implemented tomanage the potential impact


Terrestrial fauna –Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternity roost (Ratty Springs)


Key environmental values: Habitat of conservation significant fauna species - Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat maternity roost at Ratty Springs.

Key impacts and risks: Potential adverse impact on high value (roosting) habitat as a result of implementation of the Proposal.


LOW MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-4)

Objective: The Proponent shall improve knowledge of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat population and utilisation of maternity roost near Ratty Springs Western Range in the Greater Paraburdoo Development Envelope.

Management Targets Management Actions Monitoring Reporting

1. Estimate the local population of Pilbara Leaf-nosedbats using the permanent maternity roost, andassessment over time to identify significant change. .

Undertake on-going monitoring, during operational phase, of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat use of the maternity roost near Ratty Springs.

• Bi-annual acoustic monitoring and assessment ofPilbara Leaf-nosed bat maternity roost near RattySprings (Figure 2-2).

• The environmental outcome will be reported against themanagement target for each calendar year by 30 April in theACAR.

• If the management target was not met during the reporting period,the annual report will include discussion of the effectiveness of themanagement actions and whether revision of the managementactions is required.


Table 2-4: EMP Provisions – Inland Waters: Dewatering

Inland Waters and Terrestrial fauna – Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and associated Riparian vegetation (dewatering& hydrological regime)

EPA objectives: To maintain the hydrological regimes and quality of groundwater and surface water so that environmental values are protected Key environmental values: Significant Pools, Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and associated riparian vegetation (habitat of conservation significant fauna species). Key impacts and risks: Potential adverse impact on conservation significant fauna species habitat as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.


Outcome: The Proponent will ensure no adverse impact on significant pools, Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge associated Riparian vegetation as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.



Early Warning criterion:

1. Groundwater levels at Ratty Springs reaching below358 mAHD 19 during wet season monitoring,attributable to the Proposal.


• Local and regional reference data with regards to groundwater levels, pool surface water levels andclimatic information to assess if groundwater trends in early warning well(s) indicate a potential risk topool water level.

• Review groundwater abstraction rate, bore location(s), and pumping biases in relation to extent of thecone of depression.

• Quarterly groundwater monitoring at bore network(99RS01/99RS02) located at Ratty Springs (Figure2-3, Appendix 3).

• N/A

Trigger criterion:

1. Pool surface water level fall below historicallyrecorded natural range during wet season monitoringat Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs, in comparisonto reference sites.

OR

2. Indicator overstorey canopy stand as associated withDoggers Gorge and Ratty Springs have fallen belowMSAVI value of 0.32, in comparison to referencesites.


• Groundwater abstraction rate, extent of the cone of depression and the drawdown at potential impactsites in relation to predicted impact on Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge.

• Groundwater level monitoring data

• Other local and regional reference data, including riparian vegetation, rainfall, temperature, floodingand fire regime.

• Impacts predicted in the ERD for the Proposal in relation to observed changes.

• Visual census of remote sensing imagery to confirm areas of canopy health exceedance

• Undertake on-ground assessment, if feasible, of vegetation condition and cover to ground truth areasof exceedance, including number of tree lost20, detected in remote sensing imagery.

• If above also confirms exceedance, assess seasonal trends (Sentinel imagery) and longer term andregional trends (Landsat imagery).

If investigations indicate that trigger exceedance is due to the Proposal, implement trigger level response actions, for example:

• Change rate of dewatering

• Temporarily change dewatering regimes, as appropriate

• Temporary supplemental irrigation of the impacted pools, as appropriate.

• Bi-annual photographic monitoring of surface waterlevel at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge (Figure2-3, Figure 2-4).

• Annual (dry season) assessment of vegetationcondition and cover, associated with Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and reference sites, using satellite imagery (Figure 2-3)

• As triggered, annual (wet-season) condition, coverand health of riparian vegetation (overstorey,understorey including weeds) associated with RattySprings and Doggers Gorge.

• The environmental outcome will be reported against the triggercriteria for each calendar year by 30 April in the ACAR.

• If any trigger criterion was exceeded during the reporting period,the ACAR will discuss potential reasons for exceedance of thetrigger criterion and include a description of the effectiveness oftrigger level actions

19 Long term (2001 - 2019) groundwater monitoring upstream of Ratty Springs shows fluctuations between 360 and 358 mRL. Therefore, an observed reduction below 358 mAHD is considered to be representative for early warning criteria (Appendix 2) 20 Including, if feasible, quantification about the scale of tree loss (e.g. number of lost basal area change) within the area of exceedance.


Inland Waters and Terrestrial fauna – Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and associated Riparian vegetation (dewatering& hydrological regime)

EPA objectives: To maintain the hydrological regimes and quality of groundwater and surface water so that environmental values are protected Key environmental values: Significant Pools, Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and associated riparian vegetation (habitat of conservation significant fauna species). Key impacts and risks: Potential adverse impact on conservation significant fauna species habitat as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.


Outcome: The Proponent will ensure no adverse impact on significant pools, Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge associated Riparian vegetation as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.



Threshold Criterion

1. Pool surface water level fall below historicallyrecorded natural range during wet season monitoringat Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge, during two (2)wet season monitoring events, compared to referencesites, natural variation, predicted impacts andattributable to Proposal.

OR

2. Significant structural or compositional change to keyriparian species associated with Ratty Springs andDoggers Gorge compared to reference sites, andattributable to Proposal.


• Implement a temporary pool supplementation program

• Surface supplementation by direct discharge of water within core riparian zone.



• Bi-annual photographic monitoring of surface waterlevel at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge (Figure2-3, Figure 2-4)

• As triggered, annual (wet-season) condition, coverand health of riparian vegetation (overstorey,understorey including weeds) associated with Rattysprings and Doggers Gorge.

• Notify the DWER within 7 days of the non-compliance beingknown and provide a report within 21 days of the non-compliancebeing known

• The environmental outcome will be reported against the thresholdcriterion for each calendar year in the ACAR

• If the threshold criterion was exceeded during the reportingperiod, the ACAR will include a description of the effectiveness ofthreshold contingency action/s that have been implemented tomanage the potential impact

Supporting monitoring parameters for the trigger and threshold criteria

Water quality 21 ; Western Range Gorges (G7 & G10), Eastern Range Pool 4 (ERP4), Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs

Supporting parameter; review will monitor water quality trends to inform the trigger and threshold criteria • Bi-annual physicochemistry

• Bi-annual hydrochemistry• N/A

Pool surface water level fall below historically recorded natural range during wet season monitoring at Western Range Gorges, G7(1), G7(7), G3(3), G3(10) and Eastern Range Pools (ERP3& ERP4) in comparison to reference sites.

Supporting parameter; review will inform the trigger and threshold criteria • Bi-annual photographic (UAV or visual) monitoringof surface water level of Pools (Figure 2-4)

• N/A

21 Physiochemical (pH, electrical conductivity, temperature) will be taken in-situ, and hydro chemical parameters samples sent to NATA accredited lab for analysis.


Table 2-5: EMP Provisions- Inland Waters: Dewatering

Inland Waters: Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile creek (dewatering)

EPA objectives: To maintain the hydrological regimes and quality of groundwater and surface water so that environmental values are protected Key environmental values: The Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile creek. Key impacts and risks: Potential adverse impact on native riparian vegetation of zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek as a result of groundwater abstraction.


Outcome: The Proponent shall ensure there are no adverse impacts to the riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek, outside of the Development Envelope as a result of dewatering for the Proposal.



Early Warning Criteria:

1. Trends from monitoring bores are showing decline in water levelsoutside that of natural variation at Seven Mile Creek.

OR

2. Greater number of riparian overstorey stands within zone 1 ofSeven Mile Creek have fallen blow MSAVI value of 0.32, than inreference sites.


• Local and regional reference data with regard to groundwater levels, pool surface water levels andclimatic information to assess if groundwater trends in early warning wells indicate a potential risk topool water levels.

• Review groundwater abstraction rate, bore location/s, and pumping biases in relation to extent of thecone of depression.

• Monthly (automated) groundwater level monitoring ofSeven Mile Creek (Figure 2-3, Appendix 3).

• Annual (dry-season) assessment of vegetation conditionand cover using satellite imagery within zone 1 of SevenMile Creek (Figure 2-3).

N/A


Trigger criterion:

1. Overstorey canopy area within zone 1 of Seven Mile creek that isbelow the baseline MSAVI 5th percentile22 has increased by 10per cent or more than reference areas.

OR

2. Greater than 10 per cent increase in the proportion of overstoreycanopy area within zone of Seven Mile Creek that falls below theMSAVI baseline 5th percentile in comparison to reference sites

Investigate potential cause of exceedance by:

• Groundwater abstraction rates, extent of the cone of depression and the drawdown at potentialimpact sites in relation to predicted impacts.

• Groundwater level monitoring data

• Other local and regional reference data, including riparian vegetation, rainfall, temperature, floodingand fire regimes.

• Impacts predicted in the ERD for the proposal in relation to observed changes.

• Visual census of remote sensing imagery to confirm areas of canopy health exceedance.

• Undertake on-ground assessment, if feasible, of vegetation condition and cover to ground truthareas of exceedance, including number of tree loss within areas of exceedance23 detected in theremote sensing imagery.

• If above also confirms exceedance, assess seasonal trends (Sentinel imagery) and longer term andregional trends (Landsat imagery).

If investigations indicate that trigger exceedance is due to the Proposal, implement trigger level response actions, for example

• Change rate of dewatering

• Temporarily change dewatering regime, as appropriate

• Annual (dry-season) assessment of vegetationcondition and cover using satellite imagery within zone1 of Seven Mile Creek (Figure 2-3)

• As triggered: on-ground assessment of vegetationcondition and cover

• The environmental outcome will be reportedagainst the trigger criteria for each calendar yearby 30 April in the ACAR.

• If the trigger criterion was exceeded during thereporting period, the ACAR will discuss potentialreasons for exceedance of the trigger criterion andinclude a description of the effectiveness of triggerlevel actions



1. Greater than 50 per cent of the overstorey canopy area withinzone 1 of Seven Mile Creek is below the MSAVI baseline 5thpercentile; trend continues over four consecutive monitoringevents; with no evidence of seasonal recovery; and outside ofvariation observed within extended baseline period, incomparison to reference site.

OR

2. Significant structural or compositional change 24 to channel,terrace and floodplain habitats of zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek, incomparison to baseline and trends different to reference sites.


• Surface supplementation by direct discharge of water within core riparian zone.

Continue to implement threshold contingency actions until the CEO has confirmed by notice in writing that is has been demonstrated that the threshold criteria are being met.

Monitor threshold contingency actions to validate success of mitigation strategy

• Annual (dry-season) assessment of vegetationcondition and cover using satellite imagery within zone1 of Seven Mile Creek (Figure 2 4)

• As triggered: on-ground assessment of vegetationcomposition and structure within zone 1 of Seven Milecreek.

• Notify the DWER within 7 days of the non-compliance being known and provide a reportwithin 21 days of the non-compliance being known

• The environmental outcome will be reportedagainst the threshold criterion for each calendaryear in the ACAR

• If the threshold criterion was exceeded during thereporting period, the ACAR will include adescription of the effectiveness of thresholdcontingency action/s that have been implementedto manage the potential impact

22 Refer to appendix 1 for 5th percentile values for Seven Mile creek. The proponent will update criteria once baseline collection is completed. 23 Including, if feasible, quantification about the scale of tree loss (e.g. number of lost or basal area change) within the area(s) of exceedance(s). 24 Refer to appendix 3 for potential compositional changes. Change from baseline of i) two or more structural formation classes applied to National Vegetation Information System (NVIS) Level IV sub-formation,classes (ESCAVI 2003 and see Appendix 3) due to decreased or increased cover of native or weed species or ii) loss of species

listed as dominant at baseline within any of the upper, mid or ground vegetation strata.


2.1 Monitoring The purpose of monitoring is to inform, through the environmental criteria and management targets, if the corresponding environmental outcomes and objectives are being achieved. Monitoring provisions for each environmental value and how these will determine performance against the environmental criteria and management targets are presented in Table 2-1 to Table 2-5.

Detailed descriptions of the proposed monitoring data collection are provided in Appendix 3.

In addition, a number of general internal procedures address mitigation commitments made in the ERD (Rio Tinto, 2019) to minimise impacts to MNES fauna species from general operational activities, including increases in introduced flora and fauna, dust, light, noise and fauna interactions. Relevant management actions are described in Appendix 3).




Figure 2-1 Mapped Western Range population of Aluta quadrata with mine exclusion zone and buffer zone (overview, Map 1 and Map 2).


Figure 2-2 Monitoring of Ghost bat and Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat roosts


Figure 2-3 Monitoring of Ratty Springs and its associated Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek, zone 1


Figure 2-4 Monitoring of pools of local significance within and adjacent to the Development Envelope


2.2 Reporting For each calendar year in the Annual Compliance Assessment Report (ACAR) for the Proposal the environmental objectives will be reported against their associated trigger and threshold criteria and management targets (Table 4-1).

The ACAR will also include a summary of the analysis of monitoring data to facilitate adaptive management.

In the event that trigger and threshold criteria are exceeded or management targets are not met during the reporting period, the ACAR will include a description of the effectiveness of any management contingency actions that have been implemented to manage the impact. A stand-alone report will also be produced for the DWER within 21 days of any exceedance of the threshold criteria, or non-achievement of a management target. A follow up report detailing the adequacy of the response actions will also be submitted to the DWER within 12 months of the initial notification.

3. ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT AND REVIEW OF THIS EMPThe Rio Tinto framework for the development of EMPs provides details of the review and adaptivemanagement process (Appendix 1). The approach will include evaluation of:

• Monitoring data and comparison to baseline and reference site data on a regular basis to verifyresponses to potential impacts.

• The effectiveness and relevance of trigger and threshold contingency actions againstenvironmental objectives, on an annual basis, to determine if any changes to the criteria,monitoring or response actions are required.

• The effectiveness and relevance of management actions and targets against environmentalobjectives, on an annual basis, to determine if any changes to actions, targets or monitoring arerequired.

Based on the results of the review process the Proponent will update and adjust the management measures and strategies in consultation with DWER (details of updates will be captured in an appendix).

4. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONConsistent with the DWER expectations for this EMP to align with the principles of EIA, the Proponentwill consult with stakeholders, including but not limited to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservationand Attraction - Park and Wildlife Service and the DWER– EPA Services and Compliance andReporting (Water) during the environmental impact assessment of the Proposal.

To date, no specific consultation, relevant to this EMP, has been undertaken.


Table 4-1: Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub Project EMP Reporting Key environmental factors: Threatened flora, Threatened fauna and inland waters

Environmental outcomes and objectives with associated criteria and management targets. Reporting periods 1 January-31 December

Trigger criteria:

Status report:

Trigger criteria not exceeded

Trigger criteria exceeded

1. Disturbance reaches 80 percent (%) of that proposed to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within the buffer zone

2. Direct disturbance within 15 m of the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within the mining exclusion zone.

3. Pit crest encroaches within 20 m of a Ghost bat mining restriction zone (around caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

4. Vibration levels exceeds 50 mm/s peak particle velocity at retained Ghost bat roosts within 300 m of mine pit (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

5. Decline in visual structural integrity of any retained Ghost bat roosts (caves 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18), attributable to the Proposal

6. Disturbance within mining exclusion zone surrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs)

7. Decline in visual structural integrity of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs), attributable to the Proposal.

8. Pool surface water level fall below historically recorded natural range during wet season monitoring at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge, in comparison toreference sites.

9. Indicator overstorey canopy stand as associated with Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge have fallen below MSAVI value of 0.32, in comparison toreference sites.

10. Overstorey canopy within zone 1 of Seven Mile creek that is below the MSAVI 5th percentile25 has increased since baseline by ≥10 per cent

11. Greater than 10 per cent increase in the proportion of overstorey canopy area within zone of Seven Mile Creek that falls below the MSAVI baseline 5thpercentile in comparison to reference sites

Threshold criteria:

Status report:

Threshold criteria not exceeded

Threshold criteria exceeded

1. Direct disturbance to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within the mining exclusion zone

25 Refer to appendix 1 for 5th percentile values for Seven Mile creek. The proponent will update criteria once baseline collection is completed.


Key environmental factors: Threatened flora, Threatened fauna and inland waters

2. Pit crest intersects a Ghost bat mining restriction zone (around caves 6, 16, 17 and 18).

3. Collapse of any retained Ghost bat roost (caves 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18), attributable to the Proposal.

4. Disturbance within mining exclusion zone surrounding the Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs), which causes structuraldamage to the cave, attributable to the Proposal.

5. Pool surface water level fall below historically recorded natural range during wet season monitoring at Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge, during two (2)wet season monitoring events, compared to reference sites, natural variation, predicted impacts and attributable to Proposal.

6. Significant structural or compositional change to key riparian species associated with Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge compared to reference sites, andattributable to Proposal.

7. On-ground assessment determines there are significant structural or compositional change to key riparian species associated with Ratty Springs andDoggers Gorge, compared to reference sites, and attributable to Proposal.

8. Greater than 50 per cent of the overstorey canopy area within zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek is below the MSAVI baseline 5th percentile; trend continuesover four consecutive monitoring events; with no evidence of seasonal recovery; and outside of variation observed within extended baseline period, incomparison to reference site

9. Significant structural or compositional change to channel, terrace and floodplain habitats of zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek, in comparison to baseline andtrends different to reference sites

10. On-ground assessment determines there is significant structural or compositional change26 to key channel and terrace habitats of zone 1 of Seven MileCreek, in comparison to baseline and trends different to reference sites.

Management Targets

Status report: Management target achieved

Management actions implemented

Management target not achieved Management actions not implemented

1. Minimise decline in condition and/or cover due to indirect impacts to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within the buffer zone, as faras practicable.

2. Prevent indirect impacts to the mapped Western Range Aluta quadrata population within the mining exclusion zone, as far as practicable.

3. Improve knowledge of habitat preferences and biological functioning of Aluta quadrata

26 Refer to appendix 3 for potential compositional changes


Key environmental factors: Threatened flora, Threatened fauna and inland waters

4. Estimate the local population of Ghost bats in the Development Envelope.

5. Indicate how Ghost bats use caves within the Development Envelope (e.g. diurnal versus maternal).

6. Estimate the local population of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bats using the permanent maternity roost, and assessment over time to identify significant change


5. REFERENCESANZG 2018. Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality. Australian

and New Zealand Governments and Australian state and territory governments, Canberra ACT, Australia.

Aplin T.E.H (1979), the Flora. Chapter 3 In O’Brien, B.J (ed). Environment and Science. University of Western Australia Press;

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2018a. Western Range Desktop Flora and Vegetation Study. Report prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore, August 2018. Report reference: 14298-18-BISR-Rev0_181018.

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2018b. Greater Paraburdoo Detailed Flora and Vegetation Survey. Report prepared for Rio Tinto, April 2018. Report reference: 14284-18-BISR-1Rev0_190123.

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2018c. Greater Paraburdoo Level 2 Fauna Survey. Report prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore, April 2018. Report reference: 14283-18-BISR-1Rev0_181127.

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2018d. Western Range EPA Level 1 and Targeted Conservation Significant Fauna Assessment, June-July 2018, Report prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore. Report reference: 14299-18-BISR-1Rev0_181220.

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2018e. Eastern Range EPA Level 1 Targeted Fauna Survey, June/July 2018. Letter report prepared for Rio Tinto, December 2018. Report reference 14300-18-BILR-1Rev0_18120.

Astron Environmental Services Pty Ltd (Astron) 2019. Greater Paraburdoo Ghost Bat, Macroderma gigas - Contextual Study. Report prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore. December 2018. Report reference: 14303-18-BISR-1Rev0_190129.

Bat Call 2019a. Rio Tinto, Ratty Spring and Paraburdoo Pools Pilbara leaf-nosed Bat monitoring program, report prepared for Rio Tinto, Draft B. March 2019

Biologic Environmental Survey Pty Ltd (Biologic) 2019a. Western Range: Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat VHF Study. Report prepared for Rio Tinto Iron Ore, March 2019.

DIIS (2016). Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program for the Mining Industry - Preventing Acid and Metalliferous Drainage Handbook Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (DIIS), Canberra, Australia.

Ecological Australia (ELA) 2019. Targeted survey of Mesic Riparian Vegetation and associated Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems of the Greater Paraburdoo Locality, letter report prepared for Rio Tinto, Draft. 23 August 2019

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) 2016, Environmental Impact Assessment (Part IV Divisions 1 and 2) Administrative Procedures 2016, Western Australian Government Gazette No. 223.

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) 2018a, Environmental Impact Assessment (Part IV Divisions 1 and 2) Procedures Manual, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth.

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) 2018b, Instructions on how to prepare Environmental Protection Act 1986 Part IV Environmental Management Plans, Environmental Protection Authority, Perth.

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) 2019a. Genetic assessment of Aluta quadrata across the Western Range. April 2019.

Rio Tinto 2018a. Environmental Review Document Mesa A Hub Revised Proposal, Assessment Number: 2107. Prepared for Rio Tinto by Eco Logical Australia. 23 November 2018.

Rio Tinto Iron Ore (Rio Tinto) 2019, Environmental Review Document: Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Proposal Assessment No: 2189, EPBC 2018/8341. Prepared for Rio Tinto by Eco Logical Australia. October 2019.


Appendix 1 Conceptual Framework for the Development of Rio Tinto Environmental Management Plans

For the development of Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), a conceptual framework model has been applied (Figure A 1). The framework ensures linkages between current understanding, potential impacts, outcomes, adaptive management, and consistent monitoring and management practices. The framework is a stepwise process that considers the environmental values as identified in the Proposal’s Environmental Review Document (ERD), in order to implement appropriate management measures and actions to ensure the environmental objective can be achieved. The first step of the framework examines current knowledge of the environmental value(s) associated with the Proposal. This is compiled from information provided in the ERD document, examined with input from internal experts. Environmental values associated with the Proposal are evaluated based on their conservation status at local, state and regional levels. The second step of the framework is to define relevant indicators, level of management and criteria to meet the objective or the environmental outcome. A source-pathway-environmental receptor (SPER) conceptual modelling approach is used to inform the selection of indicators, as recommended by national and international guidance (DIIS 2016). The SPER conceptual model sets out the collective knowledge, experience and perspective on the environmental value (system of interest) and illustrates assumptions about how the value (system) functions and what is believed to be the important or dominant processes and their linkages. This includes factors that are perceived to be driving changes in the value (system) and the consequences of changes in these factors. The conceptual model also includes factors such as spatial boundaries as well as temporal and seasonal variations. The number and type of indicators selected to monitor and measure changes in individual environmental values will depend on several factors including; the conservation status of the environmental value; the level of management required; the environmental outcome or objectives; location; and the types of pressures and stressors identified. The required level of management (Low, Moderate or High) is determined using a risk-based assessment with four factors relating to predicted impacts from the Proposal including: likelihood; consequence; spatial extent; and temporal duration (Table A 1). The higher the level of management, the more lines of evidence may be deemed necessary to meet the environmental outcome or objective (that is more indicators and / or more frequent monitoring schedules). Draft (interim) trigger and threshold criteria and/or draft management targets will be determined for each environmental value. Early warning criteria (if appropriate) may be defined for indicators for the environmental value (e.g. groundwater depth) or the environmental value itself (e.g. vegetation status). Trigger and threshold criteria will directly relate to the environmental value and objective itself. The number of trigger criteria, and the sensitivity of both trigger and threshold criteria, will be determined by the associated management level for the environmental value. The third and fourth steps of the framework is to undertake an evaluation of the baseline and/ or current data to assess against criteria and determine whether the environmental outcome or objectives are likely to be met with existing proposed indicators. This step should also occur as part of reporting requirements when criteria are exceeded. Where criteria are not being met the adaptive management process should be implemented. The fifth step of the framework is to implement the EMP. To ensure successful implementation, relevant internal and external (regulatory) stakeholders are consulted to ensure the EMP meets management expectations, and can be implemented for the associated Proposal. The sixth, final step of the framework considers a revision of or alternatives of management objectives, indicators and/ or criteria. This step is considered where monitoring and assessment indicates objectives are not being met (Step 3). Where data suggests that objectives cannot be met using current associated indicators and criteria, repeat the second to fifth step of the framework, with consideration of the additional information gained through monitoring.


Figure A 1 Cycle of the conceptual Environmental Management Plan framework model


Table A 1: Risk assessment factors

Factor Risk (increasing to right)

Likelihood Rare Unlikely Possible Likely Almost Certain

Consequence No

conservation value

No formal recognition

for conservation

purposes

Conservation value

recognised by State

policy

Conservation value

recognised under State

and Commonwealth

legislation

Conservation value recognised under State and Commonwealth legislation (potential severe consequence)

Extent Immediate Surrounds Local Catchment Sub-regional

Duration Days Months Years Decades Centuries

The factors act independently of one another, and an increased risk of one factor will not necessary result in other factors with higher risk.

Reference

DIIS (2016). Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program for the Mining Industry - Preventing Acid and Metalliferous Drainage Handbook Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (DIIS), Canberra, Australia.


Appendix 2 Summary of Risk Assessment for Assignment of Management Zone

Each environmental value, described in Section 1.4, was assigned a management zone based on a risk assessment (Appendix 1; Step 4). A summary of the risk assessment for the Proposal, which takes into account information provided in Table 1-1 and Table 1-2, is provided in the table below along with the resulting management zone for each environmental value relevant to this EMP.

Table A 2: Summary of risk assessment for assignment of management zone.

Environmental Value

Predicted and potential impact (s)

Risk Assessment

Management Zone Likelihood Consequence Extent Duration

Flora and Vegetation

Aluta quadrata Direct and indirect

Likely

Not considering the proposed direct impacts to the Western Range population. It is likely that the Proposal may have additional impacts on the A. quadrata as a result of the close proximity to proposed operations.

Major

A. quadrata has statutory protection under the BC Act as aThreatened species. Further the Western Range populationis genetically distinct, adding to local and regionalsignificance of the population.

Regional

The Western Range population is genetically distinct. Therefore impacts to the population may affect the regional representation of the species.

Decades:

It may potentially take the Western Range population decades to recover from potential of impacts.

HIGH

Significant Fauna

Ghost bat and habitat (roosts, surface water fed pools and Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge)

Direct and indirect.

Possible

Not considering the proposed direct impacts to Ghost bat roosts. It is possible, as a result of the location and type of activities (namely blasting), that the Proposal will have additional impacts to the retained Ghost caves within the Development Envelope.

No impacts are predicted for Ratty Springs.

Minor impacts predicted for potential surface water fed permanent pools at Western and Eastern Range, however retention of Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge ensures critical habitat stability.

Major

Ghost bats and their habitats have statutory protection under the BC Act and the EPBC Act as a Vulnerable species.

Immediate

The Proposal is not expected to cause, a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019). Therefore, potential impacts will be confined to the Development Envelope.

Years

The Proposal is not expected to cause a long term decrease in the size of populations of Ghost bat (Rio Tinto 2019).

MODERATE

Pilbara leaf-nosed bat and habitat (maternity roost, surface water fed pools and Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge)

Potential direct and indirect

Unlikely

No impacts are predicted for the Pilbara leaf-nosed bat maternity roost or for Ratty Springs.


Major

High value habitat critical for species listed by the BC Act and the EPBC Act as a Vulnerable or Endangered species.

Immediate

The Proposal is not expected to cause, a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019). Therefore, impacts will be confined to the Development Envelope.

Years

The Proposal is not expected to cause a long term decrease in the size of populations of relevant MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019).

LOW

Northern Quoll and habitat (maternity roost, surface water fed pools and Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge)

Potential direct and indirect

Unlikely

No impacts are predicted for Ratty Springs.


Major


Immediate

The Proposal is not expected to cause, a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019). Therefore, impacts will be confined to the Development Envelope.

Years


LOW

Inland waters and flora and vegetation

High value habitat (potential surface water fed pools and Ratty Springs) - dewatering and potential change hydrological regime.

Potential indirect

Unlikely

No impacts are predicted for Ratty Springs, as result of dewatering for the Proposal.


Major


Immediate

The Proposal is not expected to cause a reduction in the area of occupancy, a decline in, or interfere with the recovery of MNES species (Rio Tinto 2019).

Years


LOW


Environmental Value

Predicted and potential impact (s)

Risk Assessment

Management Zone Likelihood Consequence Extent Duration

Groundwater abstraction – riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek

Indirect

Possible

The Proposal may have additional impacts (extent of drawdown) due to the uncertainties in the hydrogeological conceptual model and connection between the alluvial aquifer and the targeted aquifer for dewatering.

Serious

Groundwater dependent ecosystem; potential impact on values located outside extent of modelled dewatering (e.g. outside proposed dewatering drawdown, at Seven Mile Creek north of the Mt McRae Shale)

Immediate

Dewatering cone of depression not expected to affect riparian vegetation beyond development envelope

Decades

The Proposal targeting the aquifer for dewatering, potential for the alluvial aquifer may take decades to fully recover

LOW

Surplus dewater discharge – Seven Mile Creek

Indirect

Unlikely

Impacts with discharge not considered significant, due to mitigation strategy with very low volumes of discharge expected (if any): 0.8 GL/a and contained within Development Envelope. GDE’s of moderate dependence to groundwater, majority in poor to degraded condition with vegetation historically altered. Note that volume proposed already under current licence so not change to current approval.

Serious

Groundwater dependent ecosystem; very low potential impact on temporary change in structure, cover and health.

Immediate

Discharge will be intermittent flowing for ~ 4 km and contained within Development Envelope.

Years

Due to low volume and short period of intermittent discharge temporal change in structure, cover and health would be minimal.

VERY LOW

(no significant impacts expected due to mitigation and low flow so no management proposed for this value)

Surplus dewater discharge – Pirraburdu Creek

Indirect as described in table 1-8 to Riparian vegetation along Pirraburdu Creek

Unlikely

Impacts with discharge not considered significant, due to discharge point downstream of Ratty spring and contained within DE. Low discharge volumes (if any) due to mitigation strategy: 1.7 GL/a. GDE’s of moderate – low dependence of groundwater, majority in poor-degraded condition.

Serious

Very low potential impact on temporary change in structure, cover and health.

Immediate

Discharge point located downstream of Ratty Spring and will be contained within Development Envelope. Discharge will be intermittent (if any).

Years

Due to low volume and short period of intermittent discharge temporal change in structure, cover and health would be minimal.

VERY LOW

(no significant impacts expected due to mitigation and low flow so no management proposed for this value)


Appendix 3 Detailed Descriptions of Proposed Monitoring Programs

The Table below summarises the monitoring required to evaluate performance against the environmental outcomes and objectives, and to assess the effectiveness of management actions for environmental values within the Development Envelope.

Table A 3: Proposed monitoring program

Monitoring action Location Frequency and timing Data collection method and analysis Responsible

Aluta quadrata - HIGH MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Land clearing reconciliation (criterion 1 and 2 in Table 2-1) Western Range Annual during operational mine

life

• GIS avoidance and disturbance layers.• Internal approvals request process.• Internal incident reporting process.

Operations Environment team

Transect monitoring of the A. quadrata populations (management targets in Table 2-1, and supporting data for criterion 1 and 2 in Table 2-1)

Western Range (Aluta quadrata mining exclusion zone and buffer Zone) as well as populations at Paradurdoo and/or Channar.

Bi-annual during operational mine life; wet and dry season

• Transect monitoring (on-ground and UAV),including visual assessment of vegetationcondition, A. quadrata foliage cover andrecruitment and introduced flora species.


Imagery capture (UAV, satellite) (management targets in Table 2-1, and supporting data for criterion 1 and 2 in Table 2-1)

Western Range (Aluta quadrata mining exclusion zone and buffer zone)

Quarterly during construction of mine, and as appropriate

• Visual assessment of sedimentation loadagainst predicted.

• Visual assessment of changes to hydrologicalflows.


Improve knowledge of habitat preferences and biological functioning of Aluta quadrata (management targets in Table 2-1)

Western Range (Aluta quadrata mining exclusion zone and buffer zone) as well as populations at Paradurdoo and/or Channar.

Annual, for three years. • Annual review of research progress reportsand updates


Ghost bat roosts– MODERATE MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Land clearing reconciliation (criterion 1 in Table 2-2)

Mining restriction zones around the retained roosts within 300 m of proposed pits (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18)

Annual during operational mine life



Vibration levels (criterion 2 in Table 2-2) Retained roosts within 300 m of proposed pits (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18)

All blasts within 300 m of roost (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18)

• Modelling of peak particle velocity prior toblast.

• Vibration monitoring of actual peak particlevelocity.

• Analysis of modelled versus actual peakparticle velocity.

Drill and Blast team



Ghost bat roosts– MODERATE MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Assessment of cave structure (criterion 3 in Table 2-2)

Mining restriction zones (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18)

Quarterly during operational mine life

• Visual inspections (UAV, satellite, visual orother methodolgies)


All other retained Ghost bat roosts (caves 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 15).

Bi-annual during operational mine life


Temperature and humidity monitoring (criterion 3 in Table 2-2)

Ghost bat roosts within 300 m of activities (caves 6, 16, 17, 18) and other significant roosts (> 300 m) selected for long-term monitoring (caves 11, 14 and 15)

Ongoing (continuous) during operational mine life

• Temperature and humidity logging and dataanalysis correlated against ambienttemperature; and timing of mine pitdevelopment / blasting data in adjacent pits.


Acoustic monitoring and assessment of Ghost bat use of significant caves (Management actions in Table 2-2)

Significant Ghost bat roosts27 (caves 2, 6, 8 or 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18)

Bi-annual during operational mine life

• Call data using Bat audio recorder todetermine usage by bats.


Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat maternity roost (Ratty Springs) – LOW MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Land clearing reconciliation (criterion 1 in Table 2-3)

Mining exclusion zone: Maternity roost (Ratty Springs)




Assessment of cave structure (criterion 2 in Table 2-3) Maternity roost (Ratty Springs) Annual during operational mine

life • Visual inspections (UAV, satellite, visual or

other methodologies)Operations Environment team

Acoustic monitoring and assessment of Pilbara Leaf-nosed bat use of the maternity roost near Ratty Springs (Management action in Table 2-3).

Maternity roost (Ratty Springs) Bi-annual during operational mine life

• Call data using Bat audio recorder todetermine usage by bats.


Groundwater abstraction & altered hydrological regime– LOW MANAGEMENT ZONE (Figure 1-3)

Groundwater monitoring (early warning 1 in Table 2-4)

Bores in existing (99RS01/99RS02) network with relevance to Ratty Springs (Appendix 3).

Quarterly during operational mine life • Depth to Groundwater (mAHD). Hydrogeological team

Pool surface water level monitoring (Table 2-4) Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and surface water fed potential permanent pools.

Bi-annually • Photographic images Operations, Environment team.

27 Caves were selected based on previously recorded Ghost bat activity, structure and proximity to potential impacts.



Pool water quality monitoring (Table 2-4) Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and selected surface water fed potential permanent pools.

Bi-annually • Water quality sampling (In-situ & Lab) Operations, Environment team, Hydrology team.

Groundwater monitoring (trigger criterion 1 in Table 2-5)

Seven Mile Creek (Mb19SMC04/04, PZMC0001) (zone 1) (Appendix 3).

Monthly during operational mine life • Automated logging of groundwater levels Operations

Hydrologeology team

Image capture (trigger criteria 2 and 3, and threshold criterion 1 in Table 2-4 and Table 2-5)

Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and Seven Mile Creek (zone 1)


• Visual (remote sensing) assessment ofcanopy health (and cover)


Vegetation survey threshold criterion 2 in table 2-4 and Table 2-5)

Ratty Springs, Doggers Gorge and Seven Mile Creek (zone 1)

As triggered: during operational mine life

• As triggered: on-ground monitoring includingspecies present, health, recruitment,vegetation composition, cover and structure


1 Changes or additions to monitoring sites may be required, as a result of baseline data and further investigation.


3.1 Threatened Flora - Aluta quadrata – High Management

The Proponent considers that field-based monitoring is the most suitable approach for monitoring changes in the A. quadrata population at Western Range. Bi-annual transect monitoring, in both wet and dry seasons, will be conducted within the mining exclusion zone and buffer zone at Western Range, and will include as a minimum:

• vegetation description;

• habitat description;

• soil description;

• disturbance notes;

• A. quadrata community structure and recruitment notes;

• species present;

• % foliage cover for each species (recorded as a number, not a category/class);

• height (cm) for each species;

• dust cover (visual rating) per quadrat; and

• photograph (from the NW corner).

Data collected at Western Range (buffer zone and mining exclusion zone) prior to works will provide baseline data. Data will also be collected from the Paraburdoo and Channar populations, which will comprise supporting data and where appropriate, be used as reference data. It is noted that the suitability of Paraburdoo and Channar populations as reference sites is limited as they both also occur on live mining tenements with active operations.

Design of monitoring surveys on Western Range is to be confirmed. Priority areas for survey will be selected based on threats, accessibility, progression of development, and locations of Aluta quadrata.

Assessing loss of individuals in the buffer zone and in the mining exclusion zone (criterion 1 and 2) will involve reconciliation of the Geographical Information System (GIS) disturbance layers against the relevant boundaries on an annual basis. Review of internal incident reporting, the internal approvals request process will also be undertaken on an annual basis.

Monitoring indirect disturbance (criteria 1 and 2, and management targets 1 and 2) will involve:

• the integration of imagery (satellite, UAV, visual; captured quarterly) to compare actual extend ofsedimentation against that predicted, as well as changes in hydrological flows, with reference tothe mining exclusion zone and the buffer zone and the location of individuals of A. quadrata; and

• collection of data from quadrats, including the cover of A. quadrata and presence and abundanceof weeds.

Targeted monitoring may be required where a trigger criterion is exceeded, or as determined through the investigation and review of monitoring data. Targeted monitoring may include:

• the introduction dust monitors to assess the effectiveness of dust control measures;

• foot traverses to determine extent of weed presence; and

• further assessments of the health of individuals of A. quadrata or vegetation condition.

A research program will be conducted by an independent consultant to improve understanding of the taxa and inform adaptive management of A. quadrata at Western Range.


3.2 Threatened Fauna - Ghost bat caves – Moderate Management

The structural integrity of Ghost bat roosts within the Development Envelope will be monitored to ensure the environmental outcome is met, including:

• Annual land clearing reconciliation using GIS disturbance layers will be undertaken to monitordisturbance within the mining restriction zones surrounding the caves 6, 16, 17 and 18 whichoccur within 300 m of proposed pits.

• Vibration levels will be measured at the Ghost bat roosts for all blasts within 300 m of caves 6, 16,17 and 18. Ensuring vibration levels remain below a peak particle velocity determined for eachcave reduces the risk that vibrations compromise the structural integrity of the caves.

• Temperature and humidity will be monitored on a continuous basis, and calibrated with ambienttemperature and humidity. These monitoring actions will be used to verify that blasting and minepit development within adjacent pits do not inadvertently generate new openings at the back ofthe roost caves, which may change the cave microclimate. Caves subject to monitoring include:Ghost bat roosts within 300 m of activities (caves 6, 16, 17, 18) and other significant roosts (> 300m) selected for long-term monitoring (caves 11, 14 and 15)28.

• Visual inspections of Ghost bat roosts will be conducted to confirm management measures areprotecting the structural integrity of the caves. Conducted quarterly for roosts within 300 m ofproposed pits (caves 6, 16, 17 and 18) and bi-annually for all other retained Ghost bat roosts(caves 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 15),

On-going monitoring will be conducted to ensure the environmental objectives area met. Bi-annual acoustic monitoring and assessment at significant Ghost bat roosts will increase knowledge of the population at Western Range and their use of caves within the Development Envelope.

Targeted echolocation-based surveys for Ghost Bats have been conducted at Western Range from July 2018 to March 2019 by Astron (2019) and Rio Tinto (Bat Call 2019b). Analysis of the recordings, combined with the physical properties of the caves and the physical presence of Ghost Bats, has led to nine caves being selected for longer term presence/absence monitoring. These are caves 2, 6, 8 or 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18.

3.3 Threatened Fauna – Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs) – Low Management

Monitoring of the Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs) will be conducted, to ensure the environmental outcome is met, including:

• Annual visual inspections of the maternity roost in will be conducted to confirm no impact to thestructural integrity of the cave.

• Annual land clearing reconciliation using GIS disturbance layers and internal incident reports willbe used to monitor unapproved disturbance in the mining exclusion zone surrounding the PilbaraLeaf-nosed Bat maternity roost. If required,

The environmental objective will be met through on-going bi-annual acoustic monitoring and assessment at Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat permanent maternal roost (Ratty Springs) to increase knowledge of the population.

28 Caves were selected based on previously recorded Ghost bat activity, structure and proximity to potential impacts.


3.4 High value habitat (Surface water feed potential permanent pools of local significance, Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs) for MNES fauna species – Low Management

Ratty Springs occurs where the Pirraburdoo Creek alluvial aquifer intercepts a ridgeline and the impermeable upper Nammuldi Member (of the Marra Mamba Iron Formation), at the western end of the Greater Paraburdoo operations. The vegetation is dominated by Melaleuca and Eucalypt species, which have formed due to the shallow water table, while away from the creek-sediments and shallow water table the vegetation changes to Spinifex and predominantly Acacias.

Due to the disconnect between the groundwater environments feeding Ratty Springs and those of interest for the Proposal, no impacts to Ratty Springs from hydrogeological activity are anticipated. However, to ensure no adverse impact to Ratty Springs a comprehensive monitoring program is proposed. Monitoring at Ratty Springs will encompass groundwater levels, surface water levels, surface water quality and associated vegetation (Table 2-4). Groundwater levels have been collected from the proposed bores since 1997 and details of monitoring bores can be found in Table A 4 below.

Doggers Gorge is located approximately 4.5 km east of the Eastern Range Mine, outside the Development Envelope. Doggers Gorge occurs where the Stoney Creek catchment narrows as it transitions from a broad Fortescue Group catchment and passes through a narrow BIF Gorge. Doggers Gorge support Phoenix palms, and the vegetation is dominated by Eucalyptus victrix with pockets of E. camaldulensis.

Surface water feeds potential permanent pools of local significance encompass pools located at the Western and Eastern Range are close to Ghost bat roosts and also high value habitat to other MNES fauna, thus represents an important water source. The pools of the Western Range gorges (Table A 5) are surface water fed rock pools and not linked to riparian systems, thus the management andmonitoring program (Table A 5) is linked to ensure that impacts to the potential permanent pools arenot greater than predicted, taking into account that some minor impacts are predicted to occur andassigned as an early warning criteria. Doggers Gorge and Ratty Springs will be monitored to ensurehigh value habitat remains within the local area.

Table A 4 Ratty Springs bore monitoring details.

Deep Shallow

Bore ID Depth

(m +RL)

Co-ordinates

(MGA94-Z50)

Lithology Bore ID Depth (m+RL)

Co-ordinates

(MGA94-Z50)

Lithology

99RS01

[65mm slotted, installed Jan 1999]

52m

360.63RL

E555112, N7433585

Cherty Siltstone

99RS02

[65 mm slotted, installed Jan 1999]

20m

360.59 RL

E555108

N7433581

Alluvials/Calcrete


Table A 5 Pools of local significance monitoring details

Western Range Gorge

Co-ordinates (MGA94-Z50)

Monitoring Eastern Range Pools

Co-ordinates (MGA94-Z50)

Monitoring

Gorge 7 (G71)

E545342:

N7435990

Surface water presence

Eastern Range Pool 3 (ERP3)

E571144:

N7426315


Gorge 7 (G77)

E545330

N7435880

Surface water presence; Water Quality

Eastern Range Pool 4 (ERP4)

E572315:

N7426259


Gorge 3 (G33)

E548493:

N745820


Doggers Gorge

E576626:

N7426842

Surface water presence;

Riparian Vegetation;

Water Quality

Gorge 3 (G310)

E548420:

N7435560


Ratty Springs E554900:

N7433300

Surface water presence;

Riparian Vegetation;

Water Quality


2.5 Riparian Vegetation

Change to hydrological regime due to discharge is expected to be minimal, where discharge is expected to be of 1.7 GL/a into Pirraburdu Creek and 0.8 GL/a into Seven Mile Creek and will not be continuous during life of mine. Locations of discharge points have also been optimised to reduce the potential for impacts to significant environmental values or downstream users. Modelling indicates that discharge wetting fronts will remain within Development Envelope. Discharge is most likely to occur following high rainfall periods when discharge will form a small portion of the natural flow, it is not expected to lead to significant impacts to the values of Seven Mile and Pirraburdu Creeks.

The broader vegetation units associated with the dewatering channels are defined by presence of woodland of Eucalyptus victrix and also associated with E. camaldulensis, and are of moderate local significance (constitutes 0.4% within the Development Envelope). The potential indirect impact from surplus dewater discharge is likely to have a very low potential (negligible) of temporary change in structure, cover and health of riparian vegetation.

It is recognised that Pirraburdu Creek as holding high environmental (and cultural) value as this watercourse hosts Ratty Springs (Johnny’s Gorge) which is significant semi-permanent surface water feature. Ratty Springs and Doggers Gorge will be monitored as described in the Inland Waters and Terrestrial Fauna sections (Table 2-4). Any surface water discharge will occur well downstream of Ratty Springs and is not expected that discharge will have a negative impact on the health of riparian vegetation.

Proposed discharge is not expected to occur for extended periods and that riparian vegetation (due to current mining) has been adapted to intermittent inundation.

Riparian vegetation of Seven Mile Creek – Low Management

A number of flora and vegetation surveys have been undertaken , including a desktop and field investigation of behalf of Rio Tinto for riparian vegetation and Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE’s) to characterise and define the riparian vegetation values in the Development Envelope and within 100 km of the Development Envelope (Astron 2018a, b).

A total of twenty-eight (28) vegetation units encompassing 13,875 ha were recorded within the Development Envelope (Astron 2018a, b). None of these vegetation units were defined as regionally significant or listed under the Commonwealth EPBC Act or State BC Act, or PEC’s listed by DBCA. No vegetation of high conservation value or Threatened Ecological Communities (TEC) or Priority Ecological Communities (PEC) were recorded. Vegetation condition within the Development Envelope has been influenced by a history of disturbance from mining and pastoral land use, and ranges from Excellent (35.8%) to Completely Degraded (20.4%) (Astron 2018 a, b).

Five of the 28 vegetation units within the Development Envelope were identified to be of moderate local conservation significance or of high local significance, that is “ecosystems at risk” not given formal TEC or PEC status, and may include ‘All major ephemeral watercourses’ (Hamersley sub-region) (refer to Figure 5-4 in ERD document).

Further investigations undertaken on behalf of Rio Tinto identified 21 riparian vegetation units within the Development Envelope, and units rated as likely to be groundwater dependent included Woodland to Open forest communities dominated by obligate phreatophytes or co-dominated by obligate and facultative phreatophytes, principally overstorey of Eucalyptus camaldulensis.

Drawdown from mine dewatering from 4EE pit has the potential to impact up to 27 ha of riparian vegetation, whilst the riparian vegetation within the “high risk zone” (i.e. within the modelled cone of dewatering) may experience change in structure, composition and/or abundance of species. However, it should be noted that the value of the riparian vegetation in this section of the creek has been disturbed as a result of existing operations.

Thus, the key value of the Seven Mile Creek riparian vegetation lies outside of the current modelled dewatering extent. The riparian vegetation expected to experience some canopy decline and


increased mortality lies in the approximate 1.5 km stretch of Seven Mile Creek upstream of the Mt McRae Shale barrier. Beyond the 1.5 km stretch the potential for vegetation to be affected in the broader zone of influence are not expected to be significantly impacted and no impact due to dewatering is predicted. Therefore to ensure potential drawdown impacts are not greater than predicted, zone 1 (Table A-1, Figure 2-3) of Seven Mile Creek will be managed to ensure it maintain its ecological integrity.

Ecological water requirements – Groundwater levels

Where groundwater level declines through groundwater extraction, the relationship between ecosystem condition and groundwater depth becomes complex and there are no published experimental data available for Australian species where the impact of different rates of increase to depth-to-groundwater have been examined. Evidence from literature suggests that phreatophytic species would not be expected to maintain contact with groundwater when the rate of drawdown exceeds around 1 cm per day (Kranjec et al., 1998; Scott et al., 1999) and once the water table falls below plant rooting depth. This suggest that a rapid rate of drawdown in the order of 1 m over several months would likely pose a high risk of impact to groundwater dependent vegetation but a more gradual rate in the order of 0.5 m over several years would pose a much lower risk. Therefore, to inform the trigger and threshold criteria the riparian vegetation within zone 1, a bore network consisting of 3 bores (Table A 6) is proposed to assess trends against natural variation within zone 1.

Drawdown is assumed to be of low level of risk for the riparian vegetation (within zone 1) as current predicted modelling do not assume significant drawdown within this stretch of creek line. Thus, the early warning criteria have been set conservatively and will be reviewed in line with the conceptual framework model as knowledge develops.

Table A 6 Monitoring bore network for Seven Mile Creek, zone 1

Monitoring Bore Easting Northing

MB19SMC02 562398 7432243

MB19SMC04 560871 7432242

PZMC0001 565183 7432258

Riparian vegetation structural / compositional monitoring

To inform the threshold criteria for the riparian vegetation structural class changes, criteria are following that of NVIS categories (Table A 8) to note any changes at any strata level. Riparian vegetation monitoring (transect) will assess species present, recruitment, abundance and cover. Threshold criterion will be reviewed in line with the conceptual framework model as knowledge develops.


Table A 7: Vegetation types, classification and description of Riparian vegetation (Figure 2-4) of Seven Mile Creek

Mapping Code

OVE

RST

OR

EY

Stru

ctur

al

Form

atio

n C

lass

Key Veg type determinants Mesic Riparian Regime Classification

Vegetation Description

Key

Ve

geta

tion

Type

s

Sub-

type

s /

Varia

nts Upper Strata Middle Strata Lower Strata

C2-AA

C2-AA Open Forest to Forest

E. camaldulensis Dominated- Open forest/forest - Wet -Sesbania formosa Presentand at times Co-dominant

Persistently Wet-‘Mesic’ + typically shallow alluvial aquifer, or bedrock forcing alluvial aquifer to be shallow/surface

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to forest), over Sesbania formosa (Eucalyptus victrix) scattered low trees (to low open woodland).

Acacia coriacea subsp. pendens, Melaleuca linophylla, Acacia ampliceps tall shrubland (with scattered Melaleuca bracteata and Washingtonia sp.).

Cyperus vaginatus open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris, Cynodon dactylon open tussock grassland, with braided channels filled with Typha domingensis and Schoenoplectus subulatus dissecting forest floor in places)(scattered/isolated Washingtonia sp. fringe channels in places)

C2-AA-H Open Forest to Forest

E. camaldulensis Dominated- Open forest/forest - Wet -Heavily modified, Dischargeand Disturbance

Persistently Wet-‘Mesic’ + typically shallow alluvial aquifer (partly artificial)

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to forest), over Sesbania formosa (Eucalyptus victrix, Washingtonia sp.) scattered low trees (to low open woodland).

Acacia coriacea subsp. Pendens, Melaleuca linophylla (Melaleuca glomerata), Acacia ampliceps tall shrubland (with scattered Melaleuca bracteata, Washingtonia sp., and Acacia citrinoviridis).

Cyperus vaginatus open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris, Cynodon dactylon open tussock grassland, with braided channels filled with Typha domingensis and Schoenoplectus subulatus dissecting forest floor in places)(Channels include Ruellia sp. Infestations in wettest zone)

C2-AA-R Open Forest to Forest

E. camaldulensis Dominated- Open forest/forest - Wet -Melaleuca Bracteataabundant

Persistently Wet-‘Mesic’ + typically shallow alluvial aquifer, or bedrock forcing alluvial aquifer to be shallow/surface

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to forest), over Eucalyptus victrix and Acacia coriacea subsp. Pendens scattered low trees,

Melaleuca linophylla, Melaleuca bracteata, and Acacia ampliceps tall shrubland (with scattered Acacia citrinoviridis).

Cyperus vaginatus open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris (Cynodon dactylon) open tussock grassland, with braided channels filled with Typha domingensis and Schoenoplectus subulatus dissecting forest floor in places)

C2-A C2-A Open Forest (to Forest)

E. camaldulensis Dominated- Open Forest (to Forest)

Typically Wet-‘Mesic’ + Typically shallow alluvial aquifer, or bedrock forcing alluvial aquifer to be shallow/surface

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to forest in places), over Acacia coriacea subsp. pendens scattered low trees.

Melaleuca glomerata/ Melaleuca linophylla (Acacia ampliceps, Acacia citrinoviridis) tall shrubland,

Cyperus vaginatus very open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris (Cynodon dactylon) open hummock grassland, with some braided channels filled with Typha domingensis and Schoenoplectus subulatus dissecting forest floor in places)

C2-B

C2-B Open Forest E. camaldulensis Dominated- Open Forest

Often Wet, Several ‘Mesic’ components present + typically shallow alluvial aquifer.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to woodland), over Acacia coriacea subsp. pendens (Eucalyptus victrix) low open woodland.

Melaleuca glomerata (M. linophylla, Acacia citrinoviridis) tall shrubland (with Scattered Acacia ampliceps in places) over Tephrosia rosea var. Fortescue Creeks scattered low shrubs over

Cyperus vaginatus scattered to very open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris open tussock grassland, with some braided channels filled with Typha domingensis dissecting the forest floor in places)

C2-B-H Open Forest Open forest - Semi Wet - Heavily modified, Discharge and Disturbance

Typically Wet (part discharge), Several ‘Mesic’ components present + typically shallow alluvial aquifer.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis open forest (to woodland), over Acacia coriacea subsp. pendens (Eucalyptus victrix) low open woodland.

Melaleuca glomerata (M. linophylla, Acacia citrinoviridis) tall shrubland (with Scattered Acacia ampliceps in places) over Tephrosia rosea var. Fortescue Creeks scattered low shrubs over

Cyperus vaginatus scattered to very open sedgeland, over Cenchrus ciliaris open tussock grassland, with some braided channels filled with Typha domingensis dissecting the forest floor in places)

C2-C C2-C Woodland E. camaldulensis Dominated

- Woodland

At times Wet, Some ‘Mesic’ components present + typically shallow alluvial aquifer.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis woodland over Acacia coriacea subsp. Pendens low trees over,

Acacia citrinoviridis, Melaleuca glomerata (Petalostylis labicheoides, Acacia pyrifolia) tall open shrubland over

*Cenchrus ciliaris open tussock grassland with *Malvastrumamericanum scattered herbs and Cucumis variabilisscattered climbers.

D7-A D7-A Open Forest

E. camaldulensis/E. victrixDominated - Open Forest -Melaleuca glomerata Openscrub

At times Wet, Limited ‘Mesic’ components present + typically shallow alluvial aquifer.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. victrix open forest, over Acacia coriacea subsp. Pendens scattered low trees, over

Melaleuca glomerata/M. linophylla, Acacia citrinoviridis tall shrubland (to tall open shrubland)

Corchorus crozophorifolius, Tephrosia rosea var. Fortescue creeks scattered low shrubs over *Cenchrus ciliaris tussock grassland with scattered Cyperus vaginatus sedges.


Mapping Code

OVE

RST

OR

EY

Stru

ctur

al

Form

atio

n C

lass

Key Veg type determinants Mesic Riparian Regime Classification

Vegetation Description K

ey

Vege

tatio

n Ty

pes

Sub-

type

s /

Varia

nts Upper Strata Middle Strata Lower Strata

D7-B D7-B Woodland E. camaldulensis/E. victrixDominated - Woodland

At times Wet, only low level ‘Mesic’ components present + alluvial aquifer shallow at times.

Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. victrix woodland (to low woodland)

A. coriacea subsp. Pendens, Acacia citrinoviridis tallshrubland (Melaleuca glomerata/M. linophylla, Petalostylislabicheoides) over Acacia pyrifolia, *Aerva javanica,Corchorus crozophorifolius open shrubland, over

*Cenchrus ciliaris open tussock grassland. Over Corchoruscrozophorifolius and Tephrosia rosea var. Fortescue creeksscattered low shrubs

D8-A D8-A Woodland to Open Forest

E. victrix Dominated -Woodland to Open Forest

At times Wet, only low level ‘Mesic’ components present + alluvial aquifer typically accessible (at depth) to overstorey.

Eucalyptus victrix woodland (to open forest in places)

Acacia coriacea subsp. pendens, Melaleuca glomerata, Acacia citrinoviridis tall open shrubland (to tall shrubland), over acacia pyrifolia scattered shrubs, over

Cenchrus spp. open tussock grassland, over Corchorus crozophorifolius, Tephrosia rosea var. Fortescue creeks (*Aerva javanica) scattered low open shrubland with scattered Cyperus vaginatus sedges.


Table A 8: Riparian vegetation structural class* list for Seven Mile creek riparian vegetation threshold criterion

Stratum Canopy cover (%)

70-100% 30-70% 10-30% 2-10% <2%

Trees over 30 m Tall closed forest Tall open forest Tall woodland Tall open

woodland

Scattered tall

trees

Trees 10-30 m Closed forest Open forest Woodland Open woodland Scattered trees

Trees under 10 m Low closed forest Low open forest Low woodland Low open

woodland

Scattered low

trees

Shrubs over 2 m Tall closed shrub Tall open shrub Tall shrubland Tall open

shrubland

Scattered tall

shrubs

Shrubs 1-2 m Closed heath Open heath Shrubland Open shrubland Scattered shrubs

Shrubs under 1 m Low closed heath Low open heath Low shrubland Low open

shrubland

Scattered low

shrubs

Hummock

grasses

Closed hummock

grassland

Hummock

grassland

Open hummock

grassland

Very open

hummock

grassland

Scattered

hummock grasses

Grasses, Sedges,

Herbs

Closed tussock

grassland/ bunch

grassland/

sedgeland/

herbland

Tussock

grassland/ bunch

grassland/

sedgeland/

herbland

Open tussock

grassland/ bunch

grassland/

sedgeland/

herbland

Very open tussock

grassland/ bunch

grassland/

sedgeland/

herbland

Scattered tussock

grasses/ bunch

grasses/ sedges/

herbs

Remote Sensing

Rio Tinto uses remote sensing to detect potential changes in riparian tree health from mine dewatering (and discharge) activities. Data are captured via satellite imagery on an annual basis (refer to Table 2-4) across reference and impact areas (Figure A-1) to inform the management of riparian vegetation condition.

The technique for monitoring riparian trees within Proposal areas using remote sensing imagery has been established and refined in recent years (Astron 2018) involving automated delineation (segmentation) of canopies of the riparian tree species across time series of imagery captured towards the end of the dry season. This time period coincides with the period in which trees are under greatest stress and when the contrast between the greenness of the tree canopy and lower storey canopy is more discernible. Values of a spectral index that are positively related to canopy health, the modified soil adjusted index (MSAVI) are extracted from the delineated canopy polygons (segments). A time series of MSAVI values from the baseline period to the latest date are then used to monitor the condition of riparian tree canopy for the management zone (Table 2-4).

For zone 1 of Seven Mile Creek both a statistical based criterion based on the 5th percentile and an empirical based criterion based on an MSAVI index value have been applied. In the absence of comprehensive baseline data, regional reference or baseline data to date is providing context to


changes observed in the potential impact zone 1, thus criteria have been set conservatively initially and will be reviewed in line with the conceptual framework model as knowledge develops.

For an evaluation of the tree health status for all riparian overstorey within zone 1 the 5th percentile was chosen focusing on one tail lower end distribution. Ideally, an extended baseline period that covers typical levels of seasonal and longer term variability is needed to capture the natural variability for this statistical method. In Table 2-4 no value has been set for the 5th percentile (noted in Figure A-1 below) as the baseline period capture of remote sensing in Paraburdoo will continue to inform the appropriate criteria. The proponent will update the 5th percentile criteria in line with the conceptual framework model as knowledge develops.

For an evaluation of the tree health status for riparian overstorey within indicative stands29 within zone 1 was chosen focusing on visual indicators of health status observed in high resolution imagery that can be compared with vegetation condition index values. Ecologically significant states of health (for example foliage cover) can be translated to index values that will inform the trigger criteria within the stands. Based on baseline data from 2017 and 2018 an MSAVI value of 0.30 generally represents an advanced state of canopy decline, while values between 0.35 and 0.39 represents early stages of canopy decline. For indicative stands16 within zone 1 of Seven Mile creek an MSAVI value of 0.32 was chosen as a conservative index value for the trigger criterion (Figure A-4). The index value of 0.32 will be used as an initial (draft) trigger criteria and will be reviewed as per the conceptual framework model as knowledge develops.

29 Indicative stands means here the smaller scale vegetation units within the zone 1 (e.g. unit 1A, & 2A etc, Refer to Table A-1 and Figure 2-3) as mapped on behalf of Rio Tinto.


Figure A-1 Overstorey canopy criteria for Pirraburdoo creek and Seven Mile creek where draft 5th percentile values will be derived from green highlighted area

5th

percentile0.40

0.32


2.6 Supporting Internal Procedures

Table A 9: Supporting management actions and monitoring to minimise impacts to MNES species Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat, Northern Quoll and Pilbara Olive Python

Management actions Monitoring

Clearing and disturbance (dust, light, noise)

• New recordings of Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat, NorthernQuoll and Pilbara Olive Python and their habitats identified withinand adjacent to revised proposal boundaries are to be recorded onthe Rio Tinto GIS database.

• Location of mining exclusion and restriction zones, as well as anysignificant roost sites or known denning sites adjacent to theoperations, are to be demarcated and access restricted toauthorised personnel.

• Proposed clearing and disturbance is to be assessed through theRio Tinto Approvals Request System. The Rio Tinto ApprovalsRequest System will ensure:

• clearing remains within approved boundaries and limits;• clearing is minimised to meet specific demands;

• planned clearing is adjusted where possible to avoiddisturbance of significant areas.

• Lighting will be installed only where required, and be directed in-pitand towards operational areas.

• Manage dust emissions through application of dust suppressionmethods including water sprays, where applicable

• Annual audit of records of GhostBat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat,Northern Quoll and Pilbara OlivePython, in the Rio Tinto GISdatabase.

• Inspect signage/fencing toconfirm it is intact and/or visible.

• Annual land clearingreconciliation.

• Inspect installed lighting toensure effects on fauna inadjacent areas are minimised.

• Dust management procedures tocontrol dust emissions.

Spread of weed species

• Weed management measures are to be implemented inaccordance with Rio Tinto's equipment hygiene procedures toensure equipment is cleaned to minimise the spread of weeds.

• Weeds within the Development Envelope are to be managedthrough an annual weed control program. Weed control measuresinclude the use of both selective and non-selective herbicides. Insome cases, physical removal of weeds is undertaken whereappropriate. This program will include surveying and spraying for*Ruellia simplex (Mexican petunia).

• Annual weed management andmonitoring in DevelopmentEnvelope.

Feral animals

• Feral animal presence is to be managed by (as required):

• prohibiting feeding animals;

• prohibiting keeping pets;

• locate and construct water sources, domestic waste facilities,administration facilities and camps to minimise fauna (andferal animal) access; and

• appropriate waste disposal for food scraps and other wastesas per the Rio Tinto EMS waste management guidelines.

• Implementation of a feral animal control program

• Reported feral animal sightings,and Audit of feral animalsightings and fauna encounters.

• Completion of feral animal controlprogram.


Management actions Monitoring

Direct fauna interactions with humans, vehicles, machinery and infrastructure

• All site personnel to be informed during their site induction ofMNES species that may occur on site (Ghost Bat, Pilbara Leaf-nosed Bat, Northern Quoll and Pilbara Olive Python), and of therestricted access to the mining exclusion and restriction zones.

• Any MNES species encountered on site are to be recorded andrecords maintained for the revised proposal. This will includelocations, and animal status (alive/dead).

• If fauna are required to be moved, fauna are to be handled andtransported in accordance with Rio Tinto's Wildlife InteractionGuidelines and the Biodiversity Act Regulations 2018. Handlingand capture will be undertaken by trained and licensed personnelonly. The local DBCA Pilbara office may be contacted for guidanceon actions for treatment and release, if required.

• Feeding of native fauna, hunting, keeping of firearms or pets onsite is prohibited.

• Vehicles and machinery to remain on designated roads, withenforced speed limits, unless in the case of emergency or forundertaking necessary activities, within the Development Envelope.

• Construction activities and light vehicle movements, within theDevelopment Envelope, to occur predominately during daylighthours.

• Roadkill will be removed from trafficable areas.

• Barbed wire use is to be avoided in the Mine DevelopmentEnvelope, except where there is a legislative requirement to do so.

• Where barbed wire is required by legislation to be used, reflectorsare to be installed on barbed wire.

• Site awareness campaigns.

• Annual audit of records.

• Inspect signage/fencing toconfirm it is intact and/or visible

• Inspections to assess whetherany unauthorised barbed wire isbeing utilised on site.

• Inspection of barbed wireinstallation to ensure reflectorsare in place.

Documents

Greater Paraburdoo Iron Ore Hub - EPA WAepa.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/PER_documentation2/A3 Environme… · Mining restriction zones . Area of 100 m surrounding Ghost bat caves