Hera Mine Ecological and Heritage Assessments

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Crucifix toad found in Hera Mine study area
Crucifix toad found in study area

Client: Aurelia Metals Limited

Area: Western NSW, SW of Nyngan

Approval Type: State Significant Development

Years: 2011- ongoing

The Hera Project is a gold, silver, lead and zinc mine, along with a processing plant and related ancillary infrastructure.

OzArk EHM was involved in completing the initial surveys and reporting required to assess the scientific values present. The impact area is a 1,532 hectare area proposed for the operation of the Hera Mine.

Extensive flora surveys were undertaken, using scientifically approved methods and involved using quadrats and transects . Fauna surveys included spotlighting, dedicated bird surveys and herptofauna searches, Elliot and Pitfall trapping, Anabat detection, call playback and incidental observations.

Hera Mine typical vegetation - White Cypress Pine and Bimble Box
Typical vegetation - White Cypress Pine and Bimble Box

The results of the ecological assessment have been used in the development approval process.

Now that the mine is operational, OzArk carries out annual ecological and biodiversity monitoring on non-operational land. Long-term data will be analysed to see trends and population/density changes over time.