Project > Maslin Beach Sand Mine Stabilisation and Revegetation

Prior to the involvement of Rural Solutions SA, significant engineering money had already been spent on attempts to rehabilitate the Maslin Beach Sand Mine.  Despite this, the site was continuing to erode significantly.

What we did

Our consultants were asked to review and assess the extent of land management issues at the Maslin Beach Sand Mine and to develop and execute a rehabilitation programme.

The rehabilitation programme included:

• Mapping issues and areas requiring control structures and measures
• Consultation with the local community
• Design and construction of swales and contour banks
• Regrading and reshaping of degraded areas
• Placement of erosion fencing, straw bales, flexible pipe, matting etc.
• Stabilisation of battered slopes with a cover crop
• Revegetation with native plants via combination of direct seeding and tube-stock planting
• Irrigation of seedlings and project maintenance

What we achieved

The majority of water is now retained on the slopes of the sand mine, dramatically reducing erosion and aiding the revegetation of the site.  In addition to contributing to soil structure and stabilising the battered slopes, native plants are attracting a diverse array of flora and fauna.  Selection criteria for plant species included minimal maintenance, salt tolerant, self-sustaining, locally indigenous to the area and low water requirement. 

Mine overburden is no longer staining the Maslin beach, the site is becoming self-sustaining, biodiversity is increasing and the amenity of the area has been significantly improved.

Contact: Jeff Edwards