Terms of Reference - North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation

• physical integrity, fluvial processes and morphology, including riparian zonevegetation and form, if relevant• any impoundments (for example, dams, levees, weirs)• hydrology of waterways and groundwater• sustainability, including both quality and quantity• dependent ecosystems• existing and other potential surface and groundwater users• water resource plans relevant to the affected catchments.GroundwaterIf the project is likely to use or affect local sources of groundwater, describegroundwater resources in the area in terms of:• geology and stratigraphy• aquifer type—such as confined, unconfined• depth to and thickness of the aquifers• depth to water level and seasonal changes in levels• groundwater flow directions (defined from water level contours)• interaction with surface water• possible sources of recharge• potential exposure to pollution• current access to groundwater resources in the form of bores, springs and ponds(including quantitative yield of water and locations of access).The groundwater assessment should also be consistent with relevant guidelines for theassessment of ASS, including spatial and temporal monitoring to accuratelycharacterise baseline groundwater characteristics.Review the quality, quantity and significance of groundwater in the project area,together with groundwater use in neighbouring areas. Refer to relevant legislation orwater resource plans for the region. The review should also provide an assessment ofthe potential take of water from the aquifer and how current users, the aquifer itself andany connected aquifers will be affected by any take of water.The review should include a survey of existing groundwater supply facilities (bores,wells, or excavations) to the extent of any environmental harm. The information to begathered for analysis is to include:• location• pumping parameters• draw down and recharge at normal pumping rates• direction of underground flows• seasonal variations (if records exist) of groundwater levels.Develop a network of observation points that would satisfactorily monitor groundwaterresources both before and after commencement of operations.Contents of the EISDudgeon Point Coal Terminals ProjectTerms of reference for an environmental impact statement- 45 -