Environmental Assessment
Volume B-3.3
Mine
Soils
Ambatovy Project
40
January 2006
The environmental consequence was rated as low following closure since natural
erosion rates are expected once a stable vegetation cover was established (see
Volume B, Section 6). However, as noted above, ferricrete soils will not be
reclaimed following mine closure.
Table 3.3-4 Residual Impact Classification for Soils
Phase
Direction Magnitude
Geographic
Extent
Duration
Reversibility Frequency
Environmental
Consequence
Key Question ST-1What Effect Will the Mine Have On Soils?
construction negative
high
local
short-term
no
low
moderate
operations
negative
high
local
medium-
term
no
low
high
closure
negative
low
local
long-term
no
low
low
3.3.3.7 Prediction Confidence
The soil impact classification relies heavily on the planned reclamation program
to return a productive soil and implement successful erosion control methods.
There are uncertainties regarding the reclamation of tropical soils and the success
of erosion control during very high rain fall events. Planned reclamation
research will address these issues (Volume B, Section 6).
3.3.3.8 Monitoring
The proponent will implement reclamation monitoring programs to ensure the
mitigation processes are successful and adjust if necessary. The mine
reclamation monitoring plan will consist of:
•
ensuring environmental protection measures are being followed during
mine construction, operations and closure;
•
ensuring overburden stockpile stability;
•
measuring soil quality and vegetation performance; and
•
documentation of the monitoring results.
