Introduction
Invasive species pose a significant threat to ecosystems worldwide, causing environmental degradation and economic losses. The mining industry, often criticized for its environmental impact, has started to embrace sustainable practices to mitigate its footprint. This case study focuses on Secret Harvest’s partnership with Australian Strategic Minerals (ASM) and their joint effort to clear invasive species on a mine site. The study highlights the benefits of this initiative and its positive impact on the land.
Background
Australian Strategic Minerals (ASM):
ASM is a leading mining company in Australia, specializing in the extraction and processing of strategic minerals. The company acknowledges the importance of responsible mining practices and actively seeks sustainable solutions to minimize its environmental impact.
Secret Harvest:
Secret Harvest is a land regeneration and management company that specialises in the removal and control of invasive species. We employ innovative, sustainable, and traditional Indigenous methods to restore ecosystems and promote biodiversity.
The Problem
Identification of Invasive Species
On one of ASM’s mine sites, invasive species were identified as a significant ecological threat. The site was infested with an invasive plant species called White Cypress (Callitris Columellaris), which was spreading rapidly, outcompeting native vegetation, and degrading the ecosystem.
Negative Impacts of Invasive Species
The presence of this invasive species on the mine site had multiple adverse effects, including:
- Reduced Biodiversity: Invasive plants displaced native flora, leading to reduced species diversity and the loss of important ecological interactions.
- Soil Erosion: The invasive plants’ shallow root systems contributed to soil erosion, increasing the risk of sediment runoff and water pollution.
- Threat to Native Flora and Fauna: Invasive species altered habitat structures and food webs, threatening the survival of native flora and fauna.
Secret Harvest’s Approach
ASM partnered with Secret Harvest to develop an integrated strategy to clear the invasive species from the mine site. The collaboration aimed to restore the ecosystem’s health, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the environmental impact of mining operations.
Secret Harvest implemented a range of sustainable methods to clear the invasive species:
- Manual Removal: Trained personnel manually removed invasive plants, ensuring their complete eradication.
- Mechanical Removal: In areas with dense infestations, machinery was used to clear the invasive species while minimizing soil disturbance.
- Revegetation: Native plant species were reintroduced to restore the original ecosystem composition and enhance natural regeneration.
Secret Harvest established long-term monitoring and maintenance programs to prevent the re-establishment of invasive species. Regular inspections were conducted to ensure the success of the clearing efforts and address any potential reinfestations promptly.
Before: Invasive Cypress Trees 
After: Cleared Land 
Environmental and Social Benefits
The removal of invasive species by Secret Harvest facilitated the recovery of the mine site’s native flora, promoting biodiversity and reestablishing vital ecological processes. Restoring native vegetation improved soil stability, reduced erosion, and enhanced water quality.
Wattle Seed Pasture Returned
The elimination of invasive species created a more suitable habitat for native wildlife and saw the return for a rare pink tailed worm lizard. Indigenous plant species provided food, shelter, and breeding grounds for various animal species, contributing to the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem.
The initiative fostered a sense of environmental stewardship and created a positive relationship between ASM and the local community.
Conclusion
The collaborative efforts between Secret Harvest and Australian Strategic Minerals (ASM) in clearing invasive species on a mine site have yielded significant environmental and social benefits. The removal of invasive plants has restored the native ecosystem, enhanced biodiversity, and fostered community engagement. This case study serves as an example of how mining companies can embrace sustainable practices and actively contribute to the preservation and restoration of natural habitats.
