Environmental Assessment
Volume C-3.2
Slurry Pipeline
Soils
Ambatovy Project
31
January 2006
3.2.3.6 Prediction Confidence
The soil impact classification relies heavily on the planned reclamation program
to return a productive soil to the disturbed RoW. There are uncertainties
regarding reclamation and erosion control in tropical soils. However, the
proposed fast reclamation of the RoW immediately following construction assists
with predicting that reclamation will be successful. Planned reclamation research
will address these issues.
3.2.3.7 Monitoring
The proponent will implement reclamation monitoring programs to ensure the
mitigation processes are successful and adjust if necessary. The slurry pipeline
reclamation monitoring plan will consist of:
•
ensuring that environmental protection measures are being followed
during slurry pipeline construction;
•
ensuring slope stability;
•
measuring vegetation performance; and
•
documentation of the monitoring results.
3.2.4
Conclusions
Following mitigation, the pipeline will have a moderate environmental
consequence for soils during the construction phase, a low environmental
consequence during the operation phase and a low environmental consequence
following closure and reclamation. The main issue is the increase in erosion risk
of the fine-texture soils once vegetation is cleared. The potential impact to soils
has implications for vegetation, hydrology and particularly water quality, where
there is a likelihood of increased sediment runoff. These issues are addressed in
other sections of the EA.
