5.0 Conclusion
Assessment of the PER has identified some issues which will require attention/clarification by Ashton Mining Limited. These issues can be adequately addressed through existing regulatory and administrative processes such as the reviewable Environmental Management Plan.
As a result of this assessment the Department of Mines and Energy will require Ashton Mining Limited to prepare an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the approval of the Secretary. The EMP will address the 'Commitments' made by Ashton Mining Limited in the PER and all environmental issues identified as relevant in this report and Attachment A.
These issues include:
- Water management;
- Rehabilitation;
- Heritage sites management; and
- Environmental monitoring programs.
Through the assessment of monitoring results the EMP, or parts thereof, will be reviewed on a regular basis to assess the performance of management practices. Adverse trends can be detected before developing into environmental problems and can be dealt with through appropriate modification to management practices. The EMP becomes a practical management tool that can be utilised for environmental audit purposes.
Recommendation 8
Ashton Mining Limited should prepare and submit Mine and Environmental Management Plans to the Department of Mines and Energy for approval.
Ashton Mining Limited should operate in accordance with the approved plans, with these plans being reviewed by the Department on a regular basis.
Prior to commencement of any changes to the Mine Plans or Environmental Management Plan, Ashton Mining Limited will submit revised plans for approval.