Mining and conservation are often considered to be incompatible land uses. Yet, economically important mineral deposits often occur in areas with high biodiversity and therefore, high conservation value. The challenge then is for mining companies to maintain or enhance the conservation value of these sites, especially with regard to rehabilitation or restoration after mining. One such example will be discussed in International Mining’s August issuer – the northern jarrah forest southeast of Perth, Western Australia. It is botanically diverse; home to almost 800 plant species and it also contains vast bauxite reserves.
Alcoa of Australia commenced mining here in 1963 and currently mines and restores some 600 ha/y. Restoration is crucial because, among other considerations, the mining operations occur within Perth’s drinking water catchments. The forest is also important for conservation, recreation and timber production. In fact, much of Alcoa’s initial research into rehabilitation focused on its ability to return a productive forest. More recently, its aim has been to return a self-sustaining jarrah forest ecosystem. This includes returning botanical diversity to pre- or unmined forest levels.
These issues and many more (from geotechnical, to social, to financial, as well as ecological) will be part of the now well established Mine Closure Conference series run jointly by the Australian Centre for Geomechanics (ACG) and the Centre for Land Rehabilitation (CLR).
More than 330 delegates attended the First International Seminar on Mine Closure that was held in Perth, Western Australia in 2006. Following on from successful seminars held in Chile (2007) and South Africa (2008), the ACG and CLR are delighted to bring the Fourth International Conference on Mine Closure back to Perth in September 2009. Over 100 papers covering the topical geotechnical, social, financial and ecological mine closure issues are expected to be presented over the three day event. Abstracts are due 2nd March 2009. For conference themes, abstract guidelines and event updates please visit http://www.mineclosure2009.com/
