Case study 11: Iluka Resources returns previous mineral sands mine to productive farmland and ephemeral waterways
Between 2004 and 2009, Iluka Resources Ltd mined the Yoganup mineral sands deposit near Capel in Western Australia’s south-west. During the operational life of Yoganup, the company mined 12.9 million tonnes of ore and produced 1.9 million tonnes of heavy mineral concentrate from the site, which had previously been productive dairy farm land. The mine site also hosted two main watercourses: Tiger Gully and the Ludlow River. Before mining began, the streams had undergone modifications including the cutting of meanders and the deepening of channels, which had led to erosion problems. Although there was some fringing vegetation before Iluka began mining the area, most of it had been heavily degraded.
Pre-mine Ludlow River, showing the degraded vegetation and channel deepening.
As part of its mine plan, Iluka developed a surface water drainage management system to enable progressive mining at Yoganup and reconstruction of the two waterways.
To ensure best practice in its operations, Iluka consulted with 15 landowners, 10 neighbors and local and state governments. Local interests and environment groups were also approached for advice. Discussions with these stakeholders resulted in an agreed soil return plan and stockpile-handling methods. A resultant farm use plan was established and signed off by the landowners.
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Reconstructed creek stabilised, showing stream rehabilitation circa 2008.
Cross-section of the detailed design
work done to improve the flow
characteristics of the river for improved
ecological value, and the native
species list used for the project.
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In addition to reconstructing the waterways, Iluka ran a riparian and farm tree belt vegetation planting program that focused on species that would provide adequate habitats for bird and aquatic life. The company’s rehabilitation activities have resulted in the land being returned to highly productive dairy production. One farmer has converted 70 hectares of the previously mined land to a central pivot irrigation system for his dairy stock.
Reconstructed creek stabilised, showing stream rehabilitation circa 2