Rirratjingu Enterprises

Haulage Solutions for Mine Rehabilitation

RE was engaged to load and haul 60,000 tonnes of crushed laterite from borrow pits located on the mining lease to the Residue Disposal Area for use in the Pond 5 capping project for roads and civils works. These works were completed ahead of time despite frequent rain events impacting haulage during the wet season.

Capping of Ponds for Mine Rehabilitation
The capping process for the Rio Tinto bauxite mine is a critical step in mine rehabilitation. Capping is often used in rehabilitating areas impacted by mining or industrial activities. It is the process of sealing waste ponds to stop contamination to the surrounding environment and help restore the land.

Typically, a capping system includes multiple layers:

• a geosynthetic liner or clay layer to act as a barrier. This prevents seepage of hazardous substances.
• a drainage layer to manage surface water;
• and a final layer of soil to support vegetation.

The capped area is then seeded with native plants to promote ecological recovery, control erosion, and improve soil quality over time.

Restoring the site to its natural state is key to ensuring long-term environmental sustainability and is an important part of meeting environmental regulations.

Hydro-Mulching and Irrigation for Mine Rehabilitation

Hydro mulching and irrigation are essential techniques for restoring degraded or disturbed land. Rio Tinto has engaged RE to provide these services and help restore the mine site to its natural state.

Hydro mulching services involve spraying a slurry of water, mulch, seed, fertiliser, and a binding agent onto the soil. This mixture forms a protective layer over the land, preventing wind and water erosion and creating a good environment for seeds to grow.

Irrigation supports hydro mulching by supplying water to help plants grow, especially in dry areas. It can be applied through drip irrigation systems, sprinklers, or water trucks, depending on the site. Proper irrigation keeps the soil moist, which is important for plant growth in the early stages.

Together, these techniques

• help stabilise the soil
• reduce erosion, and
• promote the establishment of vegetation, which is vital for land rehabilitation.

The growing plants enhance restore ecosystems by providing habitat for wildlife.
Over time, the barren or damaged land will transform into a stable, vegetated area that blends with the surrounding environment.