The Upper Arthur River has been severely affected for 15 to 20 kilometres by historical acid mine drainage emanating from the former Mt Bischoff tin mining operations at Waratah. The site is of historic importance to the development of Tasmania, and of wide interest to geologists and mineral collectors.
Mineral Resources Tasmania is planning a rehabilitation program at Mt Bischoff, which will be funded by RiverWorks Tasmania. RiverWorks is a Commonwealth program administered in Tasmania by the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment on behalf of the Natural Heritage Trust.
An investigation of the acid drainage from the site and the effects of heavy metals on the Arthur River and Waratah River has been carried out by consultants Pitt and Sherry. They have also recommended remediation options.
The initial remediation program is anticipated to comprise:
- Shaft protection works;
- Drainage diversion, alkalinity addition utilising roads in the North Valley area to ameliorate the effect of contaminants reporting to the Waratah River via Webster Creek; and
- Site improvements, rubbish removal (under archaelogical supervision) and alkalinity addition to Allens workings, the main access point to Mt Bischoff.
A major contaminated emission to the Arthur River is from the Bischoff Extended workings via Tinstone Creek. The effects of drainage controls and alkalinity additions is not well understood. DPIWE will carry out monitoring to recommend a potential water management program.
Reports
Copies of the final report (including diagrams and appendices) are available for viewing in the Council Office in Waratah, at the Waratah-Wynyard Council offices, at the MRT library at Rosny Park, or can be downloaded.
