determined by an appropriately qualified person. Methods to ameliorate growth media include (but are
not limited to):
• Integrated organic materials (compost, biosolids, straw, cane tops, biochar, fertilisers);
Surface mulching (straw, canetops); and
•
• Blending suitable benign materials noting the limitations of material availability at the Mount
Morgan Mine site.
6.4.2.4. Revegetation
When developing an appropriate revegetation strategy for some Rehabilitated Areas consideration is
given for the research work performed and the ongoing engagement with the DNRMMRRD as the
underlying landowner and operator of the site though the AMLP to understand their preferred species
mix. The proposed seed mix that will be established at the site is subject to agreement with
DNRMMRRD, as the Department are the site owner land owner who are. It is premature to specify the
seed mix at this time period as site operations have not commenced.
Most of the available information regarding revegetation strategies was reported in Unger 2003. It is
reported that vegetation surveys were undertaken as a ‘whole of site’ study and general
recommendations were made. Recommendations included key species, germination requirements and
soil types, with more specific recommendations relating to species most suited for providing high
transpiration rates, high-quality runoff, and erosion control (Kasel et al., 2001). A summary of pertinent
information is provided below:
• Native species such as eucalypts and acacias are the recommended species to use in
revegetation, as they are drought-resistant, fire-resilient and are common in dry landscapes in
Central Queensland. Several species are noted for their ability to colonise disturbed areas:
Corymbia tessellaris , Acacia spp , Pogonolobus reticulatus, and the introduced species
Pennisetum setaceum ;
• Species that are naturally resistant to fire and drought should be included in revegetation
activities, with a focus on seed stocks resilient to fire and drought. Eucalypts and acacias are
the most suitable species, along with species of Myrtaeceae and Proteaceae. Seed sown
should be propagated without fertiliser and be sown around the time of seasonal rains;
• Native grasses should be used as a ground cover; however, grass seed should not be used
until woody species have been established to limit competition. In areas where controlling ARD
maybe difficult, a mix of native grass and pea seeds should be sown, with eucalypt and acacia
tube stock introduced after the desired level of cover is achieved; and
• When planning revegetation on exposed areas, thought should be given to the soil type and
soil cover thickness: For thin cover, short-rooted species such as grasses, peas and acacias
should be considered (acacias are also suited to thicker soil covers). For higher transpiration
rates in neutral and slightly acidic conditions, faster growing species such as Corymbia
tessellaris and Eucalyptus tereticornis should be used.
154
Wulguru Technical Services Pty Ltd – Supporting Information to Amend an Environmental Authority
Powered by FlippingBook