In 2020, Chalice Mining Limited (Chalice) commenced their journey for Julimar State Forest Exploration to be completed for Nickel-Copper-Platinum Group Elements (Ni-Cu-PGE) within the Gonneville, Hartog and Baudin exploration targets, located approximately 80 km northeast of Perth.  At the time, the intention to partake in mineral exploration activities within the Juliar State Forest, a protected conservation reserve, which represented a significant greenfield project within a largely unexplored area holding a strong public environmental value.

Chalice first engaged MBS Environmental to assist in preparation of a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) to support early-stage low impact non-ground disturbing activities, comprising soil sampling and geophysical surveys.  Success from Stage 1 activities identified the presence of further mineralisation potential that Chalice sought to explore, which led to the development of a second CMP to support Stage 2 exploration activities, which enabled targeted Reverse Circulation and Diamond drilling within State Forest boundaries.

Julimar State Forest Exploration Assistance

• Development of CMPs for staged exploration activities.
• Scoping and management of baseline studies.
• Identification and minimisation of vegetation clearing and disturbance inside State Forest.
• Strategic advice on mitigating potential changes to environmental and landscape processes that could diminish State Forest values.
• Development of controls (via risk assessment) and associated procedures to ensure potential impacts on State Forest values were minimised.
• Support for rehabilitation activities.
• Liaison and co-operation with Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) regarding access to State Forest areas, dieback management and content of CMPs.
• Support for compliance with the CMPs.