Tahmoor Coal agricultural impact statement

Challenge

Tahmoor Coal was seeking approval for the extension of underground coal mining of the existing mine. SLR was engaged to prepare an Agricultural Impact Assessment (AIS) to address the NSW Government’s Strategic Regional Land Use Policy which aims to facilitate continued progress of the mining industry, whilst also ensuring local community sustainability and on-going viability of existing agricultural industries.

Solution

The project included detailed soil and land capability surveys and a complete hydrological assessment of the project area. Agricultural land use was recorded and mapped for each of the 67 properties within the project area.

Proposed management measures and monitoring plans were prepared for the project to minimise potential agricultural impacts and included trigger points for predicted and unforeseen impacts. Appropriate operational responses and remedial actions, including the basis for each trigger response were included in the AIS.

Impact

SLR added significant value in delivering the AIS to Tahmoor Coal due to the project team’s industry experienced technical lead, supported by skilled and experienced technical specialists, a holistic approach to agricultural impact assessment, and an understanding of Tahmoor Coal’s project management requirements through the identification, definition and execution tollgates.