Plan. Weed Management Plan. Environment. August PL-EN-0013

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1 Plan Weed Management Plan Environment August PL-EN-0013

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3 Weed Management Plan Page 3 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 Accountability Matrix Rev Title Accountable Person Signature of Accountable Person Group Manager, Government Relations Deidre Willmott General Manager, Cloudbreak Kevin McLean General Manager, Christmas Creek Viv Roberts* General Manager, Port Tony Swiericzuk* 3 General Manager, Rail Ron Dagostino Director, Exploration and Evaluation Eamon Hannon Project Director, Solomon Blake Cannavo Project Director, Port and Rail Expansion Peter Thomas Project Director, Chichester Mark Skelton The original signatures are retained by Fortescue s Document Management Area. *Note: The Accountable Person identified in the Matrix is the person that fills the applicable role at the time of signing. This may change over time whilst the Accountable Role should remain the same.

4 Weed Management Plan Page 4 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION REQUIREMENT FOR MANAGEMENT PLAN OBJECTIVE AND SCOPE DEFINITION OF PRIORITY WEED SPECIES Declared Plants Environmental Weeds Weeds of National Significance Australian Weed Strategy State Weed Plan PRIORITY WEED SPECIES IN THE FORTESCUE OPERATIONS AREA LEGISLATION AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MONITORING GUIDELINES AUDIT CORRECTIVE ACTIONS REVIEW REFERENCES... 18

5 Weed Management Plan Page 5 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 LIST OF TABLES Table 1 Commonwealth and State Legislation Relating to Flora Management... 9 Table 2 Potential Environmental Impacts Arising from Fortescue s Activities Table 3 Description of key elements of environmental management process to achieve identified objectives Table 4 Key Management Actions for Management of Significant Flora and Vegetation in Fortescue s Operations Area LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Ruby Dock (Acetosa vesicaria) Kapok (Aerva javanica) Mimosa Bush (Vachellia farnesiana) Mexican Poppy (Agremone ochroleuca) Parkinsonia (Parkinsonia aculeate) LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Project Background Data Flow Diagram Cross reference to State and Federal Statutory Requirements Weed Monitoring Guidelines (45-GU-EN-0003)

6 Weed Management Plan Page 6 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No INTRODUCTION Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) is an integrated business comprised of mine, rail and port operations based in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, with its head office located in Perth. Detailed background information regarding the timing and nature of Fortescue s environmental approvals under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA), the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth), current operations and plans for future expansion is contained in Appendix A. 1.1 REQUIREMENT FOR MANAGEMENT PLAN The Weed Management Plan (WMP) is required by the Minister as part of the development approval of Fortescue related infrastructure in the Pilbara under Ministerial Statements 690, 707 and 721. Existing projects and future developments will be required to prepare and implement site-specific Management and Monitoring programs to support this Plan. Guidance for the development of site specific monitoring programs has been provided in Appendix D. The data flow diagram for this Plan is available in Appendix B. 1.2 OBJECTIVE AND SCOPE Weeds pose a serious threat to Australia s natural ecosystems and agricultural industries. Fortescue is committed to: preventing the introduction of weeds, and controlling (if possible reducing) existing weed populations in areas in which it operates. The purpose of the WMP is to guide the management of weeds and to meet existing weed management obligations specified in Ministerial Statements issued under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986, using a combined integrated approach of weed control, hygiene, prevention and rehabilitation. The guidance and principles in the WMP apply to all exploration, design, construction, operation and decommissioning stages of current and future operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. It covers the following areas: Christmas Creek, Cloudbreak and Solomon mines and associated infrastructure;

7 Weed Management Plan Page 7 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 Current, approved and future roads, railways and associated infrastructure; Current, approved and future terrestrial based port infrastructure. This Plan was initially developed to meet the requirements of Ministerial Statements 690, 707 and 721 but is intended to provide guidance on weed management across all Fortescue Operations. The sections of the WMP which address these Ministerial conditions are identified in Appendix C. 1.3 DEFINITION OF PRIORITY WEED SPECIES Weeds are usually opportunistic plant species that are not native to an area, but once introduced, are able to compete effectively for resources. They can be intentional introductions, such as garden plants or even commercial crops. Weeds create numerous environmental impacts including resource competition and the prevention of seedling recruitment of native plant species, alteration of geomorphological and hydrological cycles, changes to soil nutrients, fire regimes and the abundance of indigenous fauna, and genetic changes (DEC, 1999). For the purposes of this Plan priority weed species are defined as Declared Plants, Environmental Weeds rated as high impact and Weeds of National Significance. 1. Declared Plants In order to protect agricultural interests, the Agriculture Protection Board maintains a list of Declared Plants ( ). Declared Plants, under the Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976, are those that landowners are required by law to control. They are required to be controlled as they are considered a significant risk to the Western Australian economy. Many weed species, however, are not declared under this Act as they may have an agricultural role. They may, however, be serious environmental weeds with the potential to affect native ecosystems. Declared Plants are currently managed by the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia (DAFWA). 2. Environmental Weeds Environmental weeds is a secondary category of weeds, used to describe plants that establish themselves in natural ecosystems and proceed to modify natural processes, usually adversely, resulting in the decline of communities they invade (DEC, 1999; page iii). Environmental weeds have been rated by the DEC as high impact, medium impact and low impact. Some environmental weeds which are rated as high impact are widespread in the Pilbara and are considered useful to pastoralists for grazing (e.g. Buffel Grass and Birdwood Grass). When these species are identified in Fortescue s Operations Area 1, Fortescue will 1 Fortescue s Operations Area is linked to specific Fortescue mining and infrastructure projects, and is defined as mining/infrastructure areas and surrounds subject to project related disturbance.

8 Weed Management Plan Page 8 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 consult with DEC and DAFWA to determine if control is required. Environmental Weeds are currently managed by the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). 3. Weeds of National Significance The Australian and state and territory governments have agreed a list of twenty Weeds of National Significance (WONS), based on the weed species invasiveness, impacts, potential to spread and socio-economic and environmental values. The full list of WONS can be accessed at WONS are currently managed by DAFWA. 4. Australian Weed Strategy The Australian Weeds Strategy (AWS) ( first developed in 1997 as the National Weeds Strategy, identifies priorities for weed management across Australia and seeks to achieve a strategic approach to weed management, in order to minimise their economic, environmental and social impact. 5. State Weed Plan A Weed Plan for Western Australia (referred to as the State Weed Plan ) ( was released in It was developed to contribute to effective weed management in Western Australia and to assist in the coordination of weed management activities at all levels of government, industry, community and individual landholders. 1.4 PRIORITY WEED SPECIES IN THE FORTESCUE OPERATIONS AREA As part of developing Fortescue s port, rail and mines projects, extensive vegetation surveys were undertaken. Seventeen species of introduced plants were recorded from the port, rail, and Cloudbreak and Christmas Creek areas in these initial surveys. Surveys undertaken over the Solomon Project areas also identified the presence of thirteen of these species of weeds. While the majority of the species recorded are common and widespread throughout the Pilbara region, some are considered significant and could pose a risk to the Pilbara ecology. Of the species identified at that time, Ruby Dock, Kapok and Mimosa Bush (environmental weeds) are rated high impact as defined under the Environmental Weed Strategy of Western Australia. The Mexican Poppy (a Declared Plant) was also identified. In addition to the weeds found during initial surveys, Parkinsonia (WONS) has since been found on Fortescue tenements within the boundary of the Roy Hill Station. Additional infestations are also present upstream of the Fortescue tenements. Parkinsonia has been added to the priority weed species for control in Fortescue s Operations Area as it invades mesic habitats and seasonal wetlands threatening waterbird habitats of continental significance. To ensure Parkinsonia is effectively managed, Fortescue will liaise with relevant stakeholders as outlined in Section 3 of this Plan.

9 Weed Management Plan Page 9 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 Therefore, Ruby Dock, Kapok, Mimosa Bush, Mexican Poppy and Parkinsonia are the priority weed species that require control in Fortescue s Operations Area. As part of Fortescue s ongoing commitment to manage weeds within its Operations Area, new priority weed species identified by DEC or DAFWA or identified by Fortescue during ongoing site inspections, will be managed by this Plan and included in the relevant weed management and monitoring programs. 1.5 LEGISLATION AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK Fortescue employees and contractors are required to comply with all relevant environmental legislation. There is a range of legislation that relates to this Plan in Western Australia (Table 1). Table 1 Commonwealth and State Legislation Relating to Weed Management Legislation Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976 (WA) Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945 (WA) Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WA) Application Declared plants and animals which are nominated by the Agriculture Protection Board as current or potential pests. Protection on environmental matters of national significance. Prevention, control and abatement or pollution and conservation protection and enhancement of environment. Deals with the conservation of soil and land resources and with the mitigation of the effects of erosion. Provides for the conservation and protection of wildlife (flora and fauna). Special provisions and schedules cover protection and management of gazetted rare flora and fauna. Other relevant standards and guidelines relevant to this Plan include: Guidance Statement No. 51 Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA, 2004). The following Fortescue documents are also of relevance to this Plan: Groundwater Discharge Management Plan (45-PL-EN-0019); Issuing Weed Certificates (Port) Procedure (P-PR-EN-0002); Vehicle Hygiene Procedure (E-EN-PP-1134); Weed Control Procedure (45-PR-EN-0006); Weed Hygiene Certificate Procedure (E-EN-CT-0001); and

10 Weed Management Plan Page 10 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 Weed Monitoring Guidelines (45-GU-EN-0003). 2. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES All Fortescue employees and contractors are required to comply with the requirements of this Plan. Accountability for fulfilling the requirements of the WMP is dependent on the stage of project development (construction, operations, decommissioning) as well as the project type (port, rail, mine). During construction stages, whether activities are undertaken by an external service provided or internal Fortescue personnel, the Project Director will be accountable for ensuring the requirements of this Plan are met. During operational stages, the General Manager (Port, Rail or Mine) will be accountable for ensuring the requirements of this Plan are met. Where responsibilities are delegated, this must be clearly recorded and communicated. In Section 6 specific Management Actions have been attributed to the appropriate personnel. When site specific weed management programs are developed to support this WMP, the RASCI framework should be utilised to delegate roles, responsibilities, and review and approval levels. RASCI is used to denote: R-Responsible Those who do the work to achieve the task. A-Accountable Those who are ultimately accountable for the completion of the deliverable or task and the one to whom the Responsible person is accountable. S-Supportive Resources allocated to the Responsible person and who will also assist in completing the task. C-Consulted I-Informed Those whose opinions are sought, two-way communication. Those whom are kept informed, one-way communication. 3. STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION Fortescue has undertaken an extensive stakeholder consultation program whereby landowners, regulators and other relevant parties were consulted with regard to investigation and design of the Cloudbreak, Christmas Creek and Solomon mine sites and associated rail infrastructure (see Section 7 in Environ 2005a, and Section 6 in Environ 2005b; Section 6 in Fortescue Metals Group, 2010).

11 Weed Management Plan Page 11 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 The Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (OEPA) was consulted regarding the original content of this Plan that was finally approved. Since that time, Parkinsonia (WONS) has been located on Fortescue tenements as well as upstream locations. Due to the water-borne nature of Parkinsonia, collaboration with owners of the upstream areas is an essential component of effective management. Therefore, liaison with pastoralists and other land holders will be undertaken to develop an agreed management program for Parkinsonia. In addition, this revised Plan was submitted to the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia (DAFWA) and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) for their feedback and to the OEPA for approval. 4. KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES Many of the environmental activities 2 associated with Fortescue s exploration, construction, operation and decommissioning activities have the potential to impact on the environment. The key activities undertaken by Fortescue that have the potential to spread weeds within the Fortescue Operations Area are: Vegetation clearing; Ground disturbance; Construction and establishment of infrastructure and linear infrastructure; Vehicle movement; Rehabilitation. 5. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS The key potential direct and indirect impacts to significant flora and vegetation arising from Fortescue s activities are presented in Table 2. Table 2 Potential Environmental Impacts Arising from Fortescue s Activities Potential Environmental Impact (Primary) Destruction of habitat terrestrial and aquatic Alteration of fire regimes Details Through prevention of seedling recruitment and resource competition, weeds can invade and damage native habitat, rendering it less valuable to indigenous fauna. Weeds can create additional fuel loads for fire by virtue of their abundance in the landscape. 2 Fortescue uses the term activities to refer to Environmental Aspects as defined by ISO14001.

12 Weed Management Plan Page 12 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 Potential Environmental Impact (Primary) Alteration of hydrological cycle Change to soil nutrient status Reduced biological diversity Cultural heritage Potential Environmental Impact (Secondary) Genetic changes to indigenous flora Changes to geomorphological processes Changes to abundance of indigenous fauna Details Weeds can clog water courses, causing erosion and alterations to streamflow. Weeds can reduce light and oxygen to aquatic flora and fauna. Weeds can both remove nutrients from soil over time essential to the effective functioning of the natural ecosystem, as well as add unwanted nutrients to soil through shedding foliage or emitting chemicals. Throughout-competing native plants for light, moisture and space, weeds can reduce the biological diversity of an area. Weeds can impact on the availability of bush tucker and medicine as well as impacting cultural heritage sites. Details Over time, genetic changes may occur in native flora species as hybridization through cross-pollination may occur. Weeds can cause increased erosion (for example, when annual weeds die off, leaving soil exposed to rains), and other impacts on landforms through the nature of their interaction with soil and water flows. As a result of impacts on indigenous vegetation and waterways, fauna is also affected through changes to habitat. 6. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT A series of environmental management objectives have been developed to mitigate environmental impacts associated with the spread of weeds that could potentially be caused by Fortescue s activities (exploration, construction, operation and decommissioning). These objectives include: 1. Identify the location of priority weed species in Fortescue s Operations Area and ensure the potential for weed outbreaks is included in project planning. 2. Control existing infestations or future outbreaks of WONS and Declared Weeds within Fortescue s Operations Area. 3. Prevent the introduction and spread of weeds by plant and equipment. For each objective, management actions have been developed to ensure the impacts from Fortescue s activities are managed, and that appropriate monitoring, reporting and corrective action functions are implemented to support the successful implementation of the management actions.

13 Weed Management Plan Page 13 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 3 The key elements of the environmental management process associated with each objective are described in Table 3. Table 3 Description of Key Elements of Environmental Management Process to Achieve Identified Objectives Element Objective Management Action Performance Indicators Reporting Evidence Timing Responsibility Definition/Description What is intended to be achieved. Tasks undertaken to enable the objective to be met. Metrics for evaluating the outcomes achieved by Management Actions. Demonstrates that the Management Action has been applied and the outcome evaluated. Period during which the Management Action should be undertaken. Accountability for ensuring the Management Action is completed. The key management actions, performance indicators, evidence, timing and responsibilities for each objective are provided in Table 4.

14 Weed Management Plan Page 14 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-00173_Rev No. 4 Table 4 Key Management Actions for Management of Weeds in Fortescue s Operations Area Objective 1 Identify the location of priority weed species in Fortescue s Operations Area and ensure the potential for weed outbreaks is included in project planning Reference Management Action Performance Indicators Reporting/Evidence Timing Responsibility 1.1 Undertake weed surveys in accordance with Guidance Statement No.51 Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia to determine the presence and distribution of priority weed species in the project area. Survey Reports Survey reports Design Manager, Environmental Approvals 1.2 Ensure populations of priority weed species identified during the approval process are recorded in the Corporate GIS and BMS. The Corporate GIS is up to date BMS is up to date GIS database BMS record Design Manager, Environmental Approvals Group Manager, Land Access 1.3 Conduct inspections to identify new weed outbreaks and inspect known populations of priority weed species. Pay particular attention to areas where groundwater is being discharge as defined in the Groundwater Discharge Management Plan (100-PL-EN-0001). New weed populations are registered in BMS All known populations of priority weed species are inspected annually and the control activity at each site is recorded in BMS Annual Environmental Report Inspection record, including reports BMS records Weed Monitoring Forms Exploration/ Exploration Development/ Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning HSES Manager Group Manager, Resource Geology 1.4 If a new priority weed species is identified, other than during a vegetation survey for new works, notify the DEC or DAFWA and update this Management Plan accordingly. Notification to DEC or DAFWA WMP updated Correspondence with DEC or DAFWA Updated WMP Exploration/ Exploration Development/ Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning Manager, Governance and Sustainability Group Manager, Resource Geology 1.5 Record populations of priority weed species in the Fortescue Operations Area in the Corporate GIS and BMS. Plant & Animal Register records are created for weed sightings BMS records GIS dataset Exploration/ Exploration Development/ Construction/Operation Project Manager HSES Manager Group Manager, Land Access 1.6 Review the list of Declared Weeds and WONS annually and update this Management Plan and BMS with any changes. BMS up to date. Management Plan up to date. Liaison with DEC, or DAFWA or other government agencies, regarding weed control activities, where appropriate. BMS records Weed Management Plan Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning Manager, Governance and Sustainability Objective 2 Control existing infestations or future outbreaks of WONS and Declared Weeds within Fortescue s Operations Area Reference Management Action Reference Management Action Reference Management Action 2.1 Develop and implement site-specific Weed Monitoring Programs as outlined in the Weed Monitoring Guidelines (45-GU-EN-0003). Site-specific Weed Monitoring Programs developed for each project area. Site-specific Weed Monitoring Programs Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure HSES Manager

15 Weed Management Plan Page 15 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No. 4a Consultation with DEC or DAFWA regarding weed control activities. 2.2 Develop and implement control measures for known populations of priority weed species in consultation with DEC or DAFWA, where appropriate, in accordance with the Weed Control Procedure (45-PR- EN-0006). Priority weed species in Fortescue s Operations Area include Ruby Dock, Kapok, Mexican Poppy, Mimosa Bush and Parkinsonia. Refer to Section 1.4 of this Plan. Compliance with Procedure Show infestation reductions of known populations of priority weed species with the aim to achieve Zero Density (all plants at a given site are treated annually to prevent from seeding). Internally report all monitoring and control activities annually Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure Project Manager HSES Manager Number of times control measures are undertaken per infestation. 2.3 Conduct a risk assessment and implement control measures for identified high risk areas ( i.e. borrow pits, quarry sites, roads, watercourses and groundwater discharge areas) where weeds have the potential to quickly establish or have an impact on the conservation values of significant flora, vegetation and/or fauna (e.g. Fortescue Marsh, Mulga communities, priority fauna habitat). Consult with the DEC or DAFWA, where appropriate. Risk Assessment conducted Inspect and treat identified high risk areas in accordance with risk assessment outcomes Specific procedures for borrow pits and quarry sites. Consultation with DEC or DAFWA regarding weed control activities. Spray diaries Weed Monitoring Forms Chemical Register Weed Register Entries BMS Annual works plan Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure Project Manager Manager Mining Manager Rail Operations 2.4 Liaise with DEC regarding weed control activities in areas vested with DEC. Number of control activities agreed to be undertaken Correspondence with agencies Diary records Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure Manager, Governance & Sustainability 2.5 Ensure seed collected for use in rehabilitation is weed free. Use accredited seed collection/supplier Report from germination consultant Seed Certificates Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure HSES Manager 2.6 Include information on priority weed species (see Figures 1-5) identified within Fortescue s Operations Area in on-line inductions. Inductions include weed identification On-line Induction content Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure Manager Governance and Sustainability 2.7 Provide specialist training to employees directly involved in weed control. Training matrices Training records Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning/ Closure Project Manager HSES Manager Objective 3 Prevent the introduction and spread of weeds by plant and equipment Reference Management Action Performance indicators Reporting / Evidence Timing Responsibility 3.1 Ensure all vehicles, plant and equipment, including trailered equipment, are clean, inspected and certified prior to entry into Fortescue s Operations Area in accordance with the Vehicle Hygiene Procedure (E-EN-PP1134). Number of new vehicles/plant to site compared with weed hygiene certificates issued. Vehicles and equipment on site without a Weed Hygiene Certificate (E-EN-CT-0001) shall be recorded as an incident Weed Hygiene Certificates Incidents in BMS Exploration/ Exploration Development/ Construction/ Operation/ Decommissioning Group Manager, Resource Geology Project Manager HSES Manager

16 Weed Management Plan Page 16 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No MONITORING GUIDELINES Guidelines for monitoring weeds in Fortescue s Operations Area can be found in Appendix D. This document provides guidance for the development and implementation of site specific Monitoring Programs; by adopting these guidelines a consistent monitoring approach can be applied across all of Fortescue Operations. The objectives of this Monitoring Program are: 1. Develop and maintain an understanding of existing weed populations within and adjacent to Fortescue s Operations Area; 2. Assess the effectiveness of weed management techniques intended to prevent the introduction of new weed populations and the spread of existing weed populations within and adjacent to Fortescue s Operations Area. 8. AUDIT Internal auditing of activities associated with this WMP will be carried out in accordance with Fortescue s internal audit schedule. Audit criteria may include, but is not limited to: Management actions within this document; Implementation of site specific groundwater operating strategies; and Applicable conditions and commitments within Ministerial Statements and Controlled Actions. Where non-conformance issues or opportunities for improvement are identified these will be documented and tracked via the Business Management System (BMS).

17 Weed Management Plan Page 17 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No CORRECTIVE ACTIONS Contingency measures will be triggered in the event of two or more monitoring events revealing spread in existing weed populations or introduction of new weeds to Fortescue exploration, construction or operations areas. Expert opinion will be sought if and when required, to guide contingency measures which will include further survey work to better understand influences causing those changes in the environment. By understanding why certain management strategies or monitoring does not work, specialist advice can be used to modify these and develop new mitigation and monitoring measures. 10. REVIEW It is important that plans and procedures are frequently reviewed and revised as Fortescue s operations change and opportunities for improved management practices are identified. This WMP will be reviewed every five years, or when significant additional information comes to hand. Upon review, the document will be revised where appropriate and the revision status will be updated in accordance with Fortescue s document control procedures.

18 Weed Management Plan Page 18 of 40 Document Number 45-PL-EN-0013_Rev No REFERENCES Beard J.S. (1975). Vegetation Survey of W.A. Sheet 5: Pilbara. U.W.A. Press. Biota Environmental Services (2004a). Vegetation and Flora Survey of the Proposed FortescueStage A Rail Corridor. Report for FMG, August Biota Environmental Services (2004b). Fortescue Metals Group Stage B Rail Corridor, Christmas Creek, Mt Lewin, Mt Nicholas and Mindy Mindy Mine Areas Vegetation and Flora Survey. Report for FMG, December Department of Environment and Conservation, Environmental Weed Strategy for Western Australia, 1999 ( Environment Australia (2000). Revision of the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) and Development of Version 5.1, Summary Report. Environment Australia, November Mattiske Consulting (2005). Flora and Vegetation on the Cloud Break and White Knight Leases. Report for FMG, June Natural Resources Management Ministerial Council, Australian Weed Strategy A national strategy for weed management in Australia, 1997 ( Thackway, R. and Cresswell, I.D. (1995). An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia: a framework for setting priorities in the national reserves system cooperative program. Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.

19 Figures

20 Figure 1 Ruby Dock (Acetosa vesicaria)

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22 Figure 2 Kapok (Aerva javanica)

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24 Figure 3 Mimosa Bush (Vachellia farnesiana)

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26 Figure 4 Mexican Poppy (Agremone ochroleuca)

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28 Figure 5 Parkinsonia (Parkinsonia aculeate)

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30 Appendices

31 Appendix A. Project Background

32 Fortescue Metals Group Background Fortescue Metals Group (Fortescue) is an integrated business comprised of mine, rail and port operations based in the Pilbara region of Western Australia with its head office located in Perth. Fortescue has commenced operation of the Pilbara Iron Ore and Infrastructure Project (the Project), which consists of several iron ore mines and associated rail and port infrastructure in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The Project was granted Major Project Facilitation Status in December 2004 and Fortescue has signed two Agreements with the State of Western Australia: The Railway and Port (The Pilbara Infrastructure Pty Ltd) State Agreement for the port and rail infrastructure to transport ore from the mines to the port; The Iron Ore (FMG Chichester Pty Ltd) Agreement for the iron ore mines. The Project has been developed in the following stages: Stage A, consisting of a two-berth iron ore export facility at Port Hedland and a northsouth railway from the central Pilbara to Port Hedland, approved under Ministerial Statement 690; Stage B, consisting of iron ore mines in the eastern Pilbara (Christmas Creek) and an east-west spur rail line connecting to the Stage A railway; approved under Ministerial Statement 707. (Note this approval included the Mindy Mindy mine site but this has not been developed to date); Cloudbreak iron ore mine west of the Christmas Creek area, approved under Ministerial Statement 721 and federal approval under the EPBC Act (EPBC 2005/2205); Port facility upgrade consisting of a third berth at Anderson Point, Port Hedland, approved under Ministerial Statement 771; Solomon iron ore project consisting of two new mines and a railway connecting to the existing Fortescue rail line, approved under Ministerial Statement 862 and federal approval under the EPBC Act (EPBC 2010/5567 and 2010/5513) in 2011; Christmas Creek water management scheme to increase the mine dewatering rate and to inject surplus water into two brackish and one saline injection zones, approved under Ministerial Statement 871. Changes to Ministerial Statements 690, 707, 721 and 771 were made and approved under Section 45 or 46 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (EP Act). Fortescue is extending its current operations in the Pilbara by developing the Solomon Project, which includes two new mine sites (Firetail and Kings), and a rail line to support the new sites. The Solomon Project area (Solomon) is located approximately 60 kilometres (km) north of Tom Price and is situated on both sides of the rail line operated by Pilbara Iron (Rio Tinto). Access to

33 Solomon is via the public roads running north of Tom Price and also from the Pilbara Iron rail access road. In addition to the Solomon project, expansion of mining to the west is proposed within the Western Hub Project area which contains approximately 10 ore bodies. Expansion of mining is also proposed east of Solomon at Nyidinghu and north east at North Star. Fortescue is also conducting drilling programmes to further delineate resources and iron ore reserves within tenements surrounding Solomon and in additional locations throughout the Pilbara. In addition to its wholly owned tenements, Fortescue is party to joint ventures and agreements with other tenement holders within the Pilbara region and is the manager of iron ore exploration operations upon these tenements.

34 Appendix B. Data Flow Diagram

35 MS 690 Port and North- South Railway (Stage A) MS 707 East-West Railway and Mine Stages (Stage B) MS 721 Cloudbreak MS 862 Solomon Iron Ore Project The MS requires a Management Plan The MS does not require a Management Plan Weed Management Plan 45-PL-EN-0013 BMS Obligations Register Solomon Vehicle Hygiene Procedure E-EN-PP-1134 Weed Hygiene Certificate Procedure E-EN-CT-0001 Issuing Weed Certificates (Port) Procedure P-PR-EN-0002 Christmas Creek Cloudbreak Weed Management Program Weed Control Procedure 45-PR-EN-0006 Yes Is weed management required? Port No Solomon Rail Is weed monitoring required? Yes Christmas Creek Weed Monitoring Guidelines 45-GU-EN-0003 Cloudbreak No Weed Monitoring Program Port End Rail

36 Appendix C. Cross reference to State and Federal Statutory Requirements

37 Ministerial Conditions and Commitments Related to the WMP Ministerial Statement and Section Requirement or Issue Objectives in this Plan Comm Comm 6 Identify target weeds, having regard for weed species outside the corridor. Identify target weeds. Section Weed control during construction and operation Comm Comm 6 Control measures which may be necessary for some species. Section Hygiene and wash-down for all plant and equipment Comm Comm 6 Hygiene inspection and wash-down procedures for all mobile plant and equipment. Section Monitoring the success of weed control Comm Comm 6 Monitoring and any follow up control, including reporting to relevant authorities. Section 7

38 Appendix D. Weed Monitoring Guidelines (45-GU-EN-0003)

39 Guideline Weed Monitoring Guidelines Environment August GU-EN-0003

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41 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 3 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No. 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION OBJECTIVES LIMITATIONS MONITORING OVERVIEW MONITORING SITE SELECTION MONITORING SITE DESIGN MONITORING PARAMETERS RATIONALE MONITORING PARAMETERS ASSESSMENT METHODS DATA MANAGEMENT, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION MONITORING FREQUENCY REPORTING REVIEW AND REVISION... 9 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Figure 2 Calculating Density Using Quadrat Counts Calculating Density Using Quadrat Transects LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A Weed Monitoring Form (45-FR-EN-0010)

42 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 4 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No INTRODUCTION The Weed Monitoring Guidelines incorporate industry practice methodology currently used in weed management in arid areas and are designed to address Fortescue s goals and objectives in relation to weed management. In addition, the implementation of these Guidelines will address the conditions outlined in Ministerial Statements 690, 707, 721 and 862 that require commitments for weed monitoring across Fortescue s operational areas. By adopting these guidelines a consistent monitoring approach can be applied across all of the Fortescue Operations. These guidelines describe the: Goals and objectives of the weed monitoring program; Rationale underpinning the monitoring design; and Approach to data management, reporting and review. 1.1 OBJECTIVES The objective of these Guidelines is to provide guidance to sites on the development of site specific monitoring programs. The guiding objectives of the site specific monitoring programs are: Develop and maintain an understanding of existing weed populations within and adjacent to Fortescue s Operations Area; and Assess the effectiveness of weed management techniques intended to prevent the introduction of new weed populations and the spread of existing weed populations within and adjacent to Fortescue s Operations Area. 1.2 LIMITATIONS Although the methodologies presented in this document are the result of a review of previous work in the area, they will continue to evolve. Fortescue will incorporate improvements to the methods presented as further knowledge is gained and these methods are used more extensively. The limitations of monitoring methods must be acknowledged when assessing the effectiveness of weed management techniques across Fortescue project areas.

43 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 5 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No MONITORING OVERVIEW 2.1 MONITORING SITE SELECTION The number of sites to be selected for monitoring depends on the number and type of weed populations present on site. Where the number of populations is relatively small, all sites could potentially be monitored. Where large numbers of communities are present, representative sites should be selected. Before selecting a site for monitoring, the following maps and data should be reviewed: Infestation maps: these may be simple GPS points on a topographic map; Aerial maps detailing roadways, waterways, wells or bores; Initial inspection data (this could be first hand information stored in a diary or from a completed monitoring form from the initial inspection); and Relevant photos of the weed site. After reviewing all of the available data, the following rules can be used to select the number and location of monitoring sites: 1. Resources available; 2. Expertise of the people carrying out the monitoring; 3. The questions you want to answer; 4. The likely disturbance to those monitoring points; 5. Ease of access for personnel and equipment; 6. Time constraints; 7. Seasonal limitations; 8. Ability to replicate the site to provide valid comparisons; and 9. Sufficient sites to provide for a suitable control site/sites.

44 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 6 of 11 Document Number _45-GU-EN-0003 Rev No MONITORING SITE DESIGN (a) Photopoints Photopoints are a photographic record of change occurring over time taken from the same point each time. They are a simple and effective monitoring method. Setting up a photopoint: Place a permanent marker such as a stake or star-picket at the point from where you will take the photo each time. Take the picture with the same camera and same settings each time (rest the camera on the stake so they are taken at the same height and use distinctive objectives as focal points). Take photos as frequently as required to reflect changes at the site, but ensure photos are taken at the same time each year to make valid comparisons. Label each photo with the date, location and the reason for taking the photo (e.g. annual monitoring). (b) Measuring Density Density is defined as the number of individual plants per unit area. Density is a good measure to determine the changes in a plants population before and after treatment. Measuring density by age or plant size classification will reflect the changes at those sites even further (Figure 1). (i) Measuring Density Using Quadrat Counts Mark out 3 or more quadrats of 10mx10m (quadrats should be located randomly over the site) Count the number of plants within the quadrat (break them in to age classification if this is possible). Multiply the average number of plants in the quadrat by 100 to get the number per hectare.

45 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 7 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No. 1 Figure 1: Calculating Density Using Quadrat Counts (ii) Measuring Density Using Quadrat Transects Quadrats are often placed along sample lines called transects. Transects are commonly 100m long, and are placed 10-50m apart parallel to each other. Using multiple transects will give you results that are more representative of your entire site (Figure 2). Mark out the 100m transects keeping them parallel to one another (10m-50m apart). Using a 2m x 2m quadrat frame (easily made using some pvc pipe) place quadrats at intervals along the transect. Count the number of plants within the quadrat (break them in to age classification if this is possible). Average the number of plants in each of the quadrats and convert to a density measure (i.e. individuals per square metre or individuals per hectare).

46 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 8 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No. 1 Figure 2: Calculating Density Using Quadrat Transects 2.3 MONITORING PARAMETERS RATIONALE The parameters have been set to provide for simple, effective monitoring systems that are easily replicated in the field by staff with varying skill levels. The data provided by these systems will allow for simple but quantitative data that can map change in the weed populations over time. 2.4 MONITORING PARAMETERS ASSESSMENT METHODS The assessment methods described below can be used to identify changes in weed populations: Visual assessment of photographic evidence looking at % of ground cover, canopy cover or standing stem count of plants visible; Statistical comparison of plant density based on plant numbers per m 2 hectare; or or plants per Plant population composition changes (only where quadrats have been assessed by the number and age of the plants within the sample quadrat).

47 Weed Monitoring Guidelines Page 9 of 11 Document Number 45-GU-EN-0003_Rev No DATA MANAGEMENT, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION In the future, data collected from monitoring parameters described above may be used to assess the effectiveness of the weed control programs being undertaken. For this reason, data collection, storage and analysis as well as interpretation are crucial to monitoring success. In the short term, general trend lines and the data from additional research projects within Fortescue s Operations, as well as other scientific literature, can be used to make better informed decisions on what the ecological significance level might be for changes in monitoring parameters. All data collected will be stored on the corporate Environmental Management System (EMS) and Business Management System (BMS). All hard copy monitoring forms, herbarium samples, field diaries and spray records are to be kept by the individual site based departments. All data analysis and interpretation should be quantifiable. Refrain from making definitive statements or using words that are open to interpretation. Where populations have not been visible/recorded for a period of time, avoid using the term eradicated, instead use terms like zero density or historic. 4. MONITORING FREQUENCY Sites should be monitored as frequently as possible, especially during the growing season, but at the very least be inspected and controlled annually. For sites where specific research or trials are being conducted monitoring should be performed on a monthly basis. 5. REPORTING Reporting on site based activities should occur monthly with the full 12 months activities reported in December of any given year. Results will be summarised in the Annual Environmental Report. 6. REVIEW AND REVISION These Monitoring Guidelines will be reviewed every two years, or when significant additional information comes to hand. Upon review, the document will be revised where appropriate and the revision status will be updated in accordance with Fortescue s document control procedures.

48 Appendices

49 Appendix A Weed Monitoring Form

50 Weed Monitoring Form Date Site ID Operator Location Plant Pest Inspection O Photo Taken: YES / NO Monitoring O Weather Conditions Direct Control O Comments Easting Northing Site Map Chemical used: Information Recorded in Weeds Database: YES / NO 45-FR-EN-0010 Rev 0

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