3. Recipient Site Selection Suitable habitat for G. hockingsii , within the project area, has been described as low woodland to open forests dominated by Corymbia citriodora , Corymbia trachyphloia , Syncarpia glomulifera and/or Acacia spp. , on steep slopes and hill crests with shallow, well drained, sandy loam soils derived from sandstone or basalt volcanic rocks. Dumping of mine waste by previous site operators has resulted in land contamination across most of the Mount Morgan Mine site. Contaminated runoff and seepage from existing mine infrastructure is actively contributing to land contamination. Prior to mining activities occurring at the Mount Morgan Mine, the headwater of the Mundic Gully flowed north to south before flowing in an easterly direction towards the Dee River. What should be the headwater of the Upper Mundic Creek is now an ephemeral waterbody at the lowest topographical point of the Upper Mundic Gully that drains through a stormwater diversion tunnel into Dam 8 located to the northeast, and as such less water is likely available within the project area compared to prior to disturbance. Additionally, the identification of several dense patches of Weeds of National Significance (WONS) around and within the population may further contribute to decline, both through competition and through increased fire risk and intensity through larger fuel loads. Because of the micro habitat requirements of this species only 2.2ha of suitable habitat, has been mapped for the species within the project area ( Figure 3 ). The recipient site has the same aspect and similar slope and micro habitat to the impact site. The presence of 2 specimens of the species across the recipient site suggests that it once was suitable habitat for the species. Management of fire, feral animals and weeds across the site will greatly improve the habitat quality of the recipient site and mitigant any impact as required by the NC Act. An offset Area Management plan is not required as the taking of the plants is exempt and Heritage minerals can use such plants under the exemption. Additionally the taking of propagation material for the planting site is also exempt for use at the recipient site.
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Mundic Gully TSF Impact Mitigation Management Plan - Grevillea hockingsii
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