Southwood Fibre southern exports environmental noise assessment

Transcription

1 Van Diemen Consulting Southwood Fibre southern exports environmental noise assessment Report No. 5012_AC_R TARKARRI ENGINEERING PTY LTD PO Box 506 Kings Meadows TAS 7249 September 2017

2 DOCUMENT CONTROL VAN DIEMEN CONSULTING SOUTHWOOD FIBRE SOUTHERN EXPORTS ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE ASSESSMENT Report No. Library Code 5012_AC_R AC Prepared for Prepared by Van Diemen Consulting Tarkarri Engineering Pty Ltd 32 Banticks Road PO Box 506 Mangalore Kings Meadows Tasmania 7030 Tasmania 7249 Contact Dr Richard Barnes Contact Dr Alex McLeod Mobile +61(0) Mobile +61(0) rwbarnes73@gmail.com alex.mcleod@tarkarri.com Author Alex McLeod Date: 22 September 2017 Director / Principal Consultant Revision History Revision No. Date Issued Reason/Comments 1 12/02/2018 Changed transport route and additional receiver locations Distribution Copy No. Revision No. Location 1 2 Project/Client File 2 2 Client 3 2 Tarkarri Engineering Library Keywords environmental noise, dba, LAeq, LAmax, airborne noise (db re 20 μpa), underwater noise (db re 1 μpa) 12 February 2018 Page 2 of 65

3 Table of Contents Executive Summary Introduction Site description Ambient noise environment Ambient noise monitoring procedure Monitoring results and discussion Southwood Dover Esperance River camping area Summary results Assessment criteria Southwood Strathblane Chip transport Environmental noise modelling Model input data Atmospheric conditions Model scenarios Modelling results and discussion Predicted noise emission contours Conclusions Appendix Appendix Appendix Airborne construction noise Underwater piling noise List of figures Figure 2.1 Aerial view of the project area with figure 2 and 3 extents marked Figure 2.2 Aerial view of Southwood and surrounds with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked Figure 2.3 Aerial view of Port Esperance and surrounds with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked Figure 2.4 Aerial view of the site for the development with the proposed haul route and figure 5 and 6 extents marked Figure 2.5 Aerial view of Huon Highway traverse section of haul route with environmental noise receiver locations used in this study marked Figure 2.6 Aerial view of Esperance River traverse section of haul route with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked Figure 2.7 Southwood wood fibre layout plan (provided by VDC) Figure 2.8 Strathblane loader layout plan (provided by VDC) Figure 3.1 Position S Figure 3.2 Position S1, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.3 Position S1, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.4 Position S1, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.5 Position S1, extended logging Ln-statistics Figure 3.6 Position D Figure 3.7 Position D1, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.8 Position D1, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.9 Position D1, narrow band spectrum Hz February 2018 Page 3 of 65

4 Figure 3.10 Position D1, extended logging Ln-statistics Figure 3.11 Position D Figure 3.12 Position D2, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.13 Position D2, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.14 Position D2, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.15 Position D Figure 3.16 Position D3, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.17 Position D3, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.18 Position D3, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.19 Position D Figure 3.20 Position D4, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.21 Position D4, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.22 Position D4, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.23 Position T Figure 3.24 Position T3, 1/3-octave band spectrum Figure 3.25 Position T3, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 3.26 Position T3, narrow band spectrum Hz Figure 5.1 Model plan view of the Southwood wood fibre facility Figure 5.2 Far-field wire frame model view of the Southwood wood fibre facility, view from the south Figure 5.3 Near-field wire frame model view of the Southwood wood fibre facility, view from the west Figure 5.4 Model plan view of the Strathblane chip loader facility Figure 5.5 Far-field wire frame model view of the Strathblane chip loader facility, view from the south Figure 5.6 Near-field wire frame model view of the Strathblane chip loader facility, view from the south Figure 5.7 Model plan view of the chip transport route Figure 5.8 Wire frame model view of the chip transport route, view from the south Figure 5.9 Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening Figure 5.10 Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening Figure 5.11 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane stockpile development Figure 5.12 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane ship loading/packing Figure 5.13 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane ship loading/packing and chip transport by truck Figure 5.14 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Port Esperance Figure 5.15 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Huon Hwy traverse Figure 5.16 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Esperance River traverse Figure A2.1 - Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening, near-field Figure A2.2 Photograph of waste pile between Ta Ann site and Southwood Fibre site Figure A3.1 Strathblane chip loader loading structure (provided be VDC) List of tables Table 2.1 Environmental noise measurement locations and model receiver positions Table 3.1 Position S1 Ln-statistics Table 3.2 Position D1 Ln-statistics Table 3.3 Position D2 Ln-statistics February 2018 Page 4 of 65

5 Table 3.4 Position D3 Ln-statistics Table 3.5 Position D4 Ln-statistics Table 3.6 Position T3 Ln-statistics Table 3.7 Summary Ln-statistics Table 5.1 Overall sound power levels and data source information Table 5.2 1/1-octave band sound power level spectra Table 5.3 Predicted noise emission levels Table A1.1 Position S1 observed Ln-statistic data Table A1.2 Position D1 observed Ln-statistic data Table A1.3 Position D3 observed Ln-statistic data Table A1.4 Position D3 observed Ln-statistic data Table A1.5 Position D4 observed Ln-statistic data Table A1.6 Position T3 observed Ln-statistic data Table A3.1 Construction noise source SWL levels Table A3.2 Predicted construction noise SPLs Table A3.3 Predicted underwater noise levels from screw piling activity References [1] Vipac report Newood Huon - Huon Wood Centre laminated veneer lumber mill noise assessment [2] SoundPLAN Acoustic modelling software - Braunstein & Berndt GmbH. [3] CONCAWE The oil companies international study group for conservation of clean air and water Europe (est. 1963) report 4/ February 2018 Page 5 of 65

6 Executive Summary Tarkarri Engineering was commissioned to undertake an environmental noise assessment of a proposed wood fibre facility at the Huon Wood Centre (a.k.a Southwood) with chip transport via road to a chip loader facility at Strathblane. Environmental noise monitoring was conducted to establish typical ambient noise conditions for residential properties with the potential to be impacted. Environmental noise emission criteria were developed with guidance from existing permit conditions, previous Environmental Effects Reports, ambient environmental noise data and relevant state policies. Environmental noise models of the wood fibre facility, chip loader facility and chip transport route were developed and used to produce predicted noise emission contours and predicted noise emission levels at selected receiver locations. The modelling results showed immission levels at critical locations below the criteria established for the project. Impact on the amenity of residential locations is not expected to be significant. Further analysis in relation to environmental noise emissions to adjoining industrial operations at the Southwood site and construction noise at the Strathblane site are provided in appendices 2 and February 2018 Page 6 of 65

7 1 Introduction Tarkarri Engineering was commissioned by Van Diemen Consulting (VDC) on behalf of Southwood Fibre to conduct an environmental noise assessment for a proposed wood fibre facility; chip transport; and chip loader facility in southern Tasmania. The development would consist of the following: 1. new wood fibre mill at Southwood to facilitate the production of wood chips; and a 2. new wood chip loader at Strathblane. Chips would be transported via road between the two facilities and stockpiled at the Strathblane site before packing into vessels for shipment. Tarkarri Engineering proposed a combination of ambient noise monitoring at selected relevant locations and environmental noise modelling of the development. In addition to the assessment of potential noise impact from operations on residential locations Appendix 2 of this report addresses noise emission to adjoining commercial/industrial operations at Southwood from the wood fibre mill facility. Noise generated during the construction phase at the Strathblane site is addressed in appendix 3 with both airborne and water borne noise emissions considered. 2 Site description Southwood The wood fibre mill would be located within The Huon Wood Centre (a.k.a Southwood) on Weld Rd, Lonnavale, approx. 19 km west of Huonville. A sawmill and rolling peeler veneer (RPV) mill (with associated boiler) are currently located on-site. The wood centre is located on the western bank of the Huon River. The topography rises steeply on the eastern bank of the Huon River creating a barrier between the centre and the nearest residential properties in other ownership, which are more than 5 km away. Strathblane The Strathblane loader is located on the southern side of Port Esperance. The topography on this side of Port Esperance rises steeply form the water with the land covered largely in native vegetation. The closest residential properties in other ownership are located on the northern side of Port Esperance in the township of Dover, approx. 4 km away. Further residential premises are present at Raminea and Strathblane approx. 6.5 km to the west significant topography exists between the facility and the Raminea and Strathblane residences. Land based fish farming facilities are located on the southern side of Port Esperance while fish farming pens are located within Port Esperance near to the land based facilities Chip transport route The chip transport route is largely through state forest reserve on existing roads. The route crosses the Huon Highway south of Strathblane. Noise sensitive residential locations were identified near to the highway traverse while the route also passes a camping area on Esperance River Rd (NB: This location is only included for indicative purposes and is not considered noise sensitive). 12 February 2018 Page 7 of 65

8 Table 2.1 provides location information for 16 positions identified at Southwood, Strathblane and the chip transport route as follows:- Southwood S1: Environmental noise monitoring location. S2 S5: Residential locations used as environmental noise model receivers. SU1 SU3: Model receiver locations, residential status unclear. Strathblane D1 D4: Environmental noise monitoring locations, also used as environment noise model receivers Chip transport route T1 T2 Residential locations used as environmental noise model receivers. T3: Environmental noise monitoring location T4: Environment noise model receiver, for indicative purposes only. Environmental noise measurement locations and model receiver positions Number Location Coordinates (MGA94, Zone 55 G) S1 Lonnavale Rd / S2 She Oak Rd / S3 Bermuda Rd / S4 Bermuda Rd / S5 Bermuda Rd / SU1 She Oak Rd / SU2 Denison Rd / SU3 She Oak Rd / D1 Pottery Rd / D2 Kent Beach Rd / D3 Kent Beach Rd / D4 Chapman Ave / T1 Huon Highway / T2 Old Hastings Rd / T3 Esperance River Rd / T4 Esperance River Rd / Environmental noise measurement location. Environmental noise model receiver. Environmental noise measurement location and environmental noise model receiver. Table 2.1 Environmental noise measurement locations and model receiver positions. Figure 2.1 provides an aerial view of an area of southern Tasmania that encompasses the development. The extents of figures 2.2 and 2.3 are provided in this figure. Figures 2.2 and 2.3 provide aerial views of Southwood and Strathblane with environmental noise measurement and environmental noise model receiver locations used for this study marked. Figure 2.4 presents an aerial view showing the chip transport route with the extents of figures 2.5 and 2.6 marked. Figure 2.5 shows an aerial view of the transport route crossing the Huon Hwy with environment noise receiver locations marked. Figure 2.6 provides an aerial view of the chip transport route near the Esperance River Rd camping area with environmental noise 12 February 2018 Page 8 of 65

9 measurement location T3 and environment noise model receiver location T4 (for indicative purposes only) marked. Figures 2.7 and 2.8 provided layout plans for the development at Southwood and loader at Strathblane locations respectively. Fig. 2.2 Fig km N Figure 2.1 Aerial view of the project area with figure 2 and 3 extents marked. 12 February 2018 Page 9 of 65

10 S1 SU2 S2 Wood fibre facility SU3 S3 SU1 S4 S5 0 1 km Figure 2.2 Aerial view of Southwood and surrounds with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked. D4 D2 D3 D1 Loader facility 0 1 km Figure 2.3 Aerial view of Port Esperance and surrounds with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked. 12 February 2018 Page 10 of 65

11 Fig. 2.6 Fig km N Figure 2.4 Aerial view of the site for the development with the proposed haul route and figure 5 and 6 extents marked. 12 February 2018 Page 11 of 65

12 T2 T m Figure 2.5 Aerial view of Huon Highway traverse section of haul route with environmental noise receiver locations used in this study marked. T3 T m Figure 2.6 Aerial view of Esperance River traverse section of haul route with environmental noise measurement and receiver locations used in this study marked. 12 February 2018 Page 12 of 65

13 Figure 2.7 Southwood wood fibre layout plan (provided by VDC). Figure 2.8 Strathblane loader layout plan (provided by VDC). 12 February 2018 Page 13 of 65

14 3 Ambient noise environment 3.1 Ambient noise monitoring procedure All measurements were carried out in general accordance with the Tasmanian Noise Measurements Procedures Manual. A logging sound level meter (SLM) was placed at each of the measurement positions during the day and/or night for a minimum of 30-minutes with relevant 10-minute Ln-statistics recorded. During each 30-minute measurement period noise sources influencing immission levels at the position were noted along with the weather conditions. Representative spectra were also taken for a minimum of 1-minute per measurement with transient noise sources excluded as far as practically possible. The spectra recorded were as follows:- 1/3-octave band spectra. Narrow band data 0 to 600 Hz (0.78 Hz resolution). Narrow band data 0 to 1200 Hz (1.56 Hz resolution). Positions S1 and D1 were selected for extended logging with an SLM recording 10-minute Lnstatistics deployed for approx. 2 hrs at position S1 and approx. 36 hrs at position D Monitoring results and discussion Observed measurements are summarised for each location with the 10-minute data averaged for the 30-minute measurement period. Relevant observations are also noted in these tables. All 10-minute observed data is presented in Appendix 1. Where extended monitoring data was obtained a graph of the main 10-minute statistical data is provided as follows:- L Aeq L A10 L A90 For sake of clarity the other 5 data sets are not shown in these graphs. Spectral data for each measurement period is shown graphically in 3 data sets as follows:- 1/3-octave band spectra. Narrow band data 0 to 600 Hz (0.78 Hz resolution). Narrow band data 0 to 1200 Hz (1.56 Hz resolution). 12 February 2018 Page 14 of 65

15 3.2.2 Southwood Position S1 L Aeq levels measured at this location were controlled by sporadic traffic flow on Lonnavale Rd. This is evidenced in figure 3.5 with L Aeq levels tracking above L A10 levels. Background noise levels were controlled by distant traffic noise and leaf rustle as the wind moved through the foliage of nearby trees. Figure 3.1 Position S1. S1 Lonnavale Rd Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Cloudy Traffic, Day 18-May 16: (6 octa) Birds, fauna, light SE Voices, breeze leaf rustle Table 3.1 Position S1 Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 15 of 65

16 Figure 3.2 Position S1, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.3 Position S1, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 16 of 65

17 Figure 3.4 Position S1, narrow band spectrum Hz. Figure 3.5 Position S1, extended logging Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 17 of 65

18 3.2.3 Dover Position D1 Day time L Aeq levels at this location were controlled by activity from vessels (both recreational and commercial) operating nearby on Port Esperance and local road traffic. Lapping water controlled background noise levels with local vessel traverses increasing the intensity of lapping noise and elevating L A90 levels (see Appendix 1 data). At night, what appeared to be a generator on a nearby stationary vessel controlled L Aeq levels while lapping water again controlled L A90 levels. Vessel activity both during the day and night is evidenced in the narrow band spectra presented in figure 3.8 and 3.9 at frequencies below 200 Hz. Extended logging data showed elevated day time L Aeq and L A10 levels most likely the result of vessel activity in Port Esperance. L A90 levels appear somewhat cyclical which may relate to incoming and outgoing tides, i.e. increased wave action generating higher lapping noise on the incoming tide and decreased noise due to water lapping on the outgoing tide. At night L Aeq and L A10 levels remain elevated until approx hrs and then drop rabidly, rising again from approx hrs. Figure 3.6 Position D1. D1 Pottery Rd Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Vessels, Cloudy Lapping water, Day 4-May 17: (4 octa) Local traffic, Calm Birds, Night 5-May 0: Clear Calm Lapping water, Vessel generator, Birds, Table 3.2 Position D1 Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 18 of 65

19 Figure 3.7 Position D1, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.8 Position D1, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 19 of 65

20 Figure 3.9 Position D1, narrow band spectrum Hz. Figure 3.10 Position D1, extended logging Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 20 of 65

21 Position D2 Local traffic controlled day time L Aeq levels at this location while at night vessel activity on Port Esperance elevated L Aeq levels above background levels which were controlled by lapping water. Strong tonal components from vessel activity in Port Esperance are evident in the spectral data presented in figures 3.12 to Figure 3.11 Position D2. D2 Kent Beach Rd Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Day 4-May 15: *Night 4-May 23: Cloudy (6 octa) Calm Clear Calm Birds, Dog, Lapping water, Local traffic, Vessels. Lapping water, Vessels. * 2 nd 10-minute period not included in average due to elevated noise levels from single vessel traverse. Table 3.3 Position D2 Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 21 of 65

22 Figure 3.12 Position D2, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.13 Position D2, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 22 of 65

23 Figure 3.14 Position D2, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 23 of 65

24 Position D3 Day time L Aeq levels were controlled by local traffic on Kent Beach Rd while background levels were controlled by lapping water noise and low frequency (LF) noise that appeared to emanate from the fish farm on the southern side of Port Esperance. At night, lapping water noise dominated the noise environment, with the exception of the first observed 10-minute period when L Aeq levels were elevated by a single vessel traverse in Port Esperance. This is evidenced in the narrow band spectrum presented in figure 3.18 at frequencies below 200 Hz. Figure 3.15 Position D3. D3 Kent Beach Rd Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Day 4-May 15: *Night 4-May 22: Cloudy (6 octa) Calm Clear Calm * 1 st 10-minute period not included in average due to elevated noise levels from single vessel traverse. Table 3.4 Position D3 Ln-statistics. Birds, Insects Traffic, Hammering (local), LF noise (fish farm), Lapping water Lapping water, Birds, traffic, vessels. 12 February 2018 Page 24 of 65

25 Figure 3.16 Position D3, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.17 Position D3, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 25 of 65

26 Figure 3.18 Position D3, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 26 of 65

27 Position D4 L Aeq levels at this location were controlled by local traffic during the day observed measurements. At night, transient noise sources were largely absent and the noise environment was controlled by mechanical equipment at a nearby supermarket and a nearby nursing home. Figure 3.19 Position D4. D4 Chapman Ave Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Day 5-May 10: Fine Light breeze NW Traffic, Birds, Leaf rustle, Voices. Night 4-May 23: Clear Calm HVAC and refrigeration systems (local) Birds, Water lapping Table 3.5 Position D4 Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 27 of 65

28 Figure 3.20 Position D4, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.21 Position D4, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 28 of 65

29 Figure 3.22 Position D4, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 29 of 65

30 3.2.4 Esperance River camping area Position T3 This location (monitored for indicative purposes only) was monitored during the evening with the noise environment completely dominated by water flow noise from the Esperance River, generating noise levels of approx. 45 dba. Figure 3.23 Position T3. T3 Esperance River Rd Period Date Time LAeq LAmax LAmin LA1 LA10 LA50 LA90 LA99 Weather Audible sources Day 4-May 20: Foggy Calm River flow Table 3.6 Position T3 Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 30 of 65

31 Figure 3.24 Position T3, 1/3-octave band spectrum. Figure 3.25 Position T3, narrow band spectrum Hz. 12 February 2018 Page 31 of 65

32 Figure 3.26 Position T3, narrow band spectrum Hz Summary results Table 3.7 provides summary results from the measurement results presented above. Measurement results summary Position Period L Aeq,10min L A90,10min Comments Southwood S1 Day Dover D1 Day Night D2 Day Night D3 Day Night Local traffic dominant source, background controlled by distant traffic and local sources (i.e. leaf rustle). Day noise levels controlled local traffic and vessel activity on Port Esperance. Night time noise environment controlled by vessel activity and lapping water. D4 Day Noise environment controlled by local mechanical Night equipment. Chip Transport T3 Evening Noise environment controlled by river flow noise Table 3.7 Summary Ln-statistics. 12 February 2018 Page 32 of 65

33 4 Assessment criteria 4.1 Southwood Provided below are the current noise emission limits that apply to NSFP Southwood operations at the Huon Wood Centre Sawmill under Environmental Protection Notice (EPN) 8784/2:- The limits for noise sensitive premises under other ownership detailed in condition N1(1) above are adopted here for operational noise from the Southwood Fibre wood fibre mill for receiver locations S2 4. The NSFP Southwood mill is the nearest to where the fibre mill part of the development will be installed and operated. These are considered reasonable in relation to the ambient noise measurements conducted at position S1 and are conservative in a Tasmanian context. The amplitude of noise generation from chipping activity tends to be time varying within a 10- minute period. To account for this, and its potential impact, maximum noise emission generation will also be modelled. Assessment will be against a maximum noise emission level criteria, based on an indicator level provided in table 1 of the Tasmanian Environmental Protection Policy(noise) 2009, see below highlighted in red. For receivers SU1 SU3 a noise emission of criteria of 45 L Aeq,10min is adopted. This is in accordance with the criteria in the Environmental Effects Report (EER) for the Huon Wood Centre Proposed Laminated Veneer Lumber Plant assessed and approved by the Tasmanian EPA in May 2015 (see Vipac report [1] fro further details). This criteria level was specified in the guidelines for the project and applied at the location of receiver SU1 from this assessment. For maximum noise emission levels, the criteria outlined above is also adopted for receiver S2 S4. 12 February 2018 Page 33 of 65

34 4.2 Strathblane Across the four measurement locations in Dover L Aeq noise levels were controlled by local transient noise sources during the day while at night the noise environment was typically more stable with few transients (infrequent vessel traverses on Port Esperance). Given the measured noise levels Tarkarri Engineering considered the following noise emission criteria to be reasonable:- 45 dba between 0700 hrs and 1800 hrs 40 dba between 1800 hrs and 2200 hrs 35 dba between 2200 hrs and 0700 hrs The limits would apply to an L Aeq,10min statistic. The above criteria are typical of minimum noise emission limits that are applied in Tasmania and are reflective of the existing ambient noise environment. 4.3 Chip transport Noise generated by chip transport trucks along the haul route from Southwood to the Strathblane loader were assessed against the criteria outlined above for the Strathblane loader. It is expected the most significant impact from chip transport truck movements along the haul route would be from pass-by noise. As such, in addition to the modelling of L Aeq,10min levels, maximum noise emission generation will also be modelled and assessed against a maximum noise emission level criteria. This will be based on an indicator level provided in table 1 of the Tasmanian Environmental Protection Policy(noise) 2009, see below highlighted in red. 12 February 2018 Page 34 of 65

35 5 Environmental noise modelling SoundPLAN [2] software was used for carrying out detailed noise emission spectra and contour modelling. This program allows the use of the CONCAWE [3] calculation method for modelling atmospheric attenuation/amplification of noise. Parameters influencing sound propagation and attenuation include: Source type (point, line, plane). Relative source and receiver height. Topography and barriers. Industrial buildings as sources and/or barriers. Ground absorption. Distance attenuation. Atmospheric conditions (Pasquill stability, temperature, humidity and vector wind speed). Reflecting surfaces. Source directivity. As all propagation and attenuation parameters are frequency dependent, all input source data has been based on 1/1-octave and 1/3-octave band sound power spectra. Geo-referenced topographic, transport, building and hydrologic data was obtained from Department of Primary Industry, Parks, Water and Environment. This provided contours at 10 m intervals; residential locations; road layouts; and river and stream courses for the areas modelled. Equipment list and layout data for the Southwood and Strathblane facilities and the chip hauling route was where provided by VDC. All source and geodata is referenced to the Map Grid of Australia (MGA). 5.1 Model input data Input sound power (SWL) spectra were determined for potential noise sources from; equipment lists provided by VDC and Tarkarri Engineering SWL library data. Table 5.1 provides overall A- weighted SWL levels for modelled sources with information relating to the source of the data. Table 5.2 provides 1/1-octave band A-weighted SWL spectra (L Aeq spectra only) Overall sound power levels (dba) Source Southwood L Aeq SWL L Amax Comment Chipper throat Tarkarri Engineering library data, chipping hardwood plantation feed. Tarkarri Engineering library data frequency dependent case chipper throat directivity was applied. Conveyers 87* - Tarkarri Engineering library data for typical chip conveyor Screens Tarkarri Engineering library data for screening of hardwood plantation feed. FEL Tarkarri Engineering library data for CAT 966G 12 February 2018 Page 35 of 65

36 Chip transport Truck Tarkarri Engineering library data for quarry truck. Strathblane FEL Tarkarri Engineering library data for CAT 966G Dozer Tarkarri Engineering library data for CAT DZH, includes track slap Conveyor drive 97 - Tarkarri Engineering library data for typical conveyor drive Conveyor 80* - Tarkarri Engineering library data for typical conveyor Chip sling * SWL/m length of conveyer. Tarkarri Engineering library data for reverberant noise from chip sling operating in ship hold with emission to the environment through open hold cover. Table 5.1 Overall sound power levels and data source information. 1/1-octave band sound power levels spectra (dba) Source Southwood Chipper Frequency (Hz) k 2k 4k 8k Total throat case Conveyers Screens FEL Chip transport Truck Strathblane FEL Dozer Conveyor drive Conveyor Chip sling Table 5.2 1/1-octave band sound power level spectra. 12 February 2018 Page 36 of 65

37 5.2 Atmospheric conditions SoundPLAN [2], via the CONCAWE [3] prediction algorithm, models atmospheric attenuation using Pasquill stability indices in combination with vector wind speed and direction to determine appropriate frequency dependent attenuation/amplification. In this study the following propagation condition was considered:- Worst case propagation: This condition considers all receiver points to be downwind with a Pasquill stability class F and a vector wind speed of 2 m/s. Under these conditions noise contours will represent the highest predicted noise levels at any location. 5.3 Model scenarios The following operational scenarios were modelled:- Southwood Chipping and screening Strathblane Stockpile development: 2 X Dozer on stockpile area; 1 X FEL. Ship loading/packing: 2 X Dozer on stockpile area; 1 X FEL; conveyor and chip sling sources. Ship loading/packing and chip transport by truck: 2 X Dozer on stockpile area, 1 X FEL; conveyor and chip sling sources; 2 X chip transport trucks on entry/exit road (source length equivalent to distance travelled in 10-minutes at 60 km/h) Chip transport Single transport truck per haul route segment. NB: The haul route was sectioned into lengths that represent the distance travelled by a chip transport truck in 10-minutes travelling at 60 km/h. Each segment of the haul route was modelled with a single truck on it. The above is based on 6 truck movements per hour along the haul route (information provided by VDC). There is some potential that more than one truck could traverse a haul route segment in a single 10-minute period and this will be considered in the assessment of the modelling results. Source locations are provided in model plan view and wire frame model views below. 12 February 2018 Page 37 of 65

38 Throat orientation Chipper throat and case Conveyors FEL Screens Figure 5.1 Model plan view of the Southwood wood fibre facility. 12 February 2018 Page 38 of 65

39 Southwood Figure 5.2 Far-field wire frame model view of the Southwood wood fibre facility, view from the south. 12 February 2018 Page 39 of 65

40 Figure 5.3 Near-field wire frame model view of the Southwood wood fibre facility, view from the west. 12 February 2018 Page 40 of 65

41 Chip sling Conveyors drives Trucks FEL Dozers on chip pile Conveyors Figure 5.4 Model plan view of the Strathblane chip loader facility. 12 February 2018 Page 41 of 65

42 Figure 5.5 Far-field wire frame model view of the Strathblane chip loader facility, view from the south. 12 February 2018 Page 42 of 65

43 Figure 5.6 Near-field wire frame model view of the Strathblane chip loader facility, view from the south. 12 February 2018 Page 43 of 65

44 Figure 5.7 Model plan view of the chip transport route. 12 February 2018 Page 44 of 65

45 Figure 5.8 Wire frame model view of the chip transport route, view from the south. 12 February 2018 Page 45 of 65

46 5.4 Modelling results and discussion Predicted noise emission contours Using the environmental noise model noise contour maps were generated to assist in the visualisation of noise propagation to the surrounding environment as follows:- Southwood Chipping and screening Strathblane Stockpile development Ship loading/packing Ship loading/packing and chip transport by truck Chip transport route segments Port Esperance Huon Hwy crossing. Esperance River traverse 12 February 2018 Page 46 of 65

47 Figure 5.9 Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening. 12 February 2018 Page 47 of 65

48 Figure 5.10 Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening. 12 February 2018 Page 48 of 65

49 Figure 5.11 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane stockpile development. 12 February 2018 Page 49 of 65

50 Figure 5.12 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane ship loading/packing. 12 February 2018 Page 50 of 65

51 Figure 5.13 Predicted noise emission contours, Strathblane ship loading/packing and chip transport by truck. 12 February 2018 Page 51 of 65

52 Figure 5.14 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Port Esperance. 12 February 2018 Page 52 of 65

53 Figure 5.15 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Huon Hwy traverse. 12 February 2018 Page 53 of 65

54 Figure 5.16 Predicted noise emission contours, Chip transport route segment Esperance River traverse. 12 February 2018 Page 54 of 65

55 Predicted noise emission levels Table 5.3 presents predicted L Aeq and L Amax noise emission levels at the eleven receiver locations for each of the five model scenarios. Where predicted noise levels exceed the relevant noise emission criteria outlined in section 4, cells are highlighted. NB: It is expected that operations for the development would occur during day, evening and night periods and as such all modelling scenarios will be assessed in relation to the criteria for each period. Predicted sound pressure levels (dba) Receiver Southwood Stockpile development Strathblane Ship loading Ship loading and chip transport Chip transport L Aeq L Amax L Aeq L Aeq L Aeq L Aeq L Amax S S S S SU SU SU D <1 12 D D D T T T Exceeds day noise emission criteria. Exceeds night noise emission criteria. Table 5.3 Predicted noise emission levels. From the above:- Southwood Exceeds evening noise emission criteria. Noise emission criteria don t apply. Predicted L Aeq noise levels are below the noise emission criteria by > 15 db at the four receiver locations (S2 S5). The highest maximum noise emission level predicted was 21 dba at receiver S2. 39 db below the maximum noise level criteria. NB: For receivers S2 S4 cumulative noise impacts from other operations at the Huon Wood Centre were not considered with noise emission levels from the proposed wood fibre facility so far below the noise emission criteria for the project it is considered not relevant. Predicted L Aeq noise levels at receivers SU1 are 4 dba below the assessment criteria and when a current ambient level of approx. 41 dba, controlled by river flow and bird activity noise (see section 2.1 of Vipac report [1] for further details) are considered cumulative noise levels are highly unlikely to exceed 45 dba. 12 February 2018 Page 55 of 65

56 At receivers SU2 and SU3 predicted L Aeq levels are well below the criteria level. Predicted maximum levels at receivers SU1 to SU4 are below the assessment criteria by > 12 db. Strathblane Predicted L Aeq noise levels are below the noise emission criteria by 5 db at the four receiver locations (D1 D4). NB: Analysis of individual source contributions indicates that the dominant noise sources at all four receivers are the two dozers operating on the chip pile. Received spectra at each of the four receiver locations are dominated by acoustic energy in the 500 Hz 1/1-octave band and predicted C-weighted levels are < 15 db above the predicted A-weighted levels, suggesting that emissions with excessive low frequency energy are unlikely. Significant tonality or impulsiveness is not expected from the sources operating at the Strathblane site and modulation is highly unlikely. Chip transport Predicted L Aeq noise levels are below the noise emission criteria by > 30 db at the four Dover receiver locations (D1 D4) and > 9 db at the two Huon Hwy traverse receiver locations (T1 and T2). Maximum noise levels are below the maximum noise level criteria by > 30 db at the four Dover receiver locations (D1 D4) and > 14 db at the two Huon Hwy traverse receiver locations (T1 and T2). NB: Where two trucks traverse a section of the haul route in a 10-minute period L Aeq levels would increase by 3 db, remaining below the criteria levels at all receiver locations. Maximum noise levels would remain unchanged. For an exceedance of the noise emission criteria to occur at the receiver locations near the Huon Hwy traverse, T1 and T2 (predicted noise levels are highest at these locations), 8 or more trucks would need to traverse this section of the haul route in a 10-minute period. At location T4 L Aeq levels are well below existing ambient generated by river flow noise, however, maximum noise emission levels on pass-by would be clearly audible above the river flow noise. 12 February 2018 Page 56 of 65

57 6 Conclusions An environmental noise assessment of a proposed development that includes a wood fibre facility at the Huon Wood Centre and chip transport via road to a chip loader facility at Strathblane has been conducted. Environmental noise monitoring in Lonnavale and Dover was conducted to establish typical ambient noise conditions for residential properties near the development with the potential to be impacted by environmental noise emissions from the project. Environmental noise emission criteria were developed with guidance from existing permit conditions at the Huon Wood Centre site, previous EER for proposed developments at the Huon Wood Centre site, ambient environmental noise data and relevant state policies. Environmental noise models of the development which include a wood fibre facility, chip loader facility and chip transport route, were developed and used to produce predicted noise emission contours and predicted noise emission levels at selected receiver locations. The modelling results showed immission levels at critical locations below the criteria established for the project. Impact on the amenity of residential locations from operational environmental noise emissions generated by this project is not expected to be significant. Further analysis in relation to environmental noise emissions to adjoining industrial operations at the Southwood site and construction noise at the Strathblane site are provided in appendices 2 and February 2018 Page 57 of 65

58 7 Appendix 1 Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min S1 Day 18-May 16:00 0:10: S1 Day 18-May 16:10 0:10: S1 Day 18-May 16:20 0:10: Average Table A1.1 Position S1 observed Ln-statistic data. Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min D1 Day 4-May 17:10 0:10: D1 Day 4-May 17:20 0:10: D1 Day 4-May 17:30 0:10: Average D1 Night 5-May 0:30 0:10: D1 Night 5-May 0:40 0:10: D1 Night 5-May 0:50 0:10: Average Table A1.2 Position D1 observed Ln-statistic data. 12 February 2018 Page 58 of 65

59 Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min D2 Day 4-May 15:40 0:10: D2 Day 4-May 15:50 0:10: D2 Day 4-May 16:00 0:10: Average D2 Night 4-May 23:00 0:10: *D2 Night 4-May 23:10 0:10: D2 Night 4-May 23:20 0:10: Average * Excluded from average. Table A1.3 Position D3 observed Ln-statistic data. Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min D3 Day 4-May 15:00 0:10: D3 Day 4-May 15:10 0:10: D3 Day 4-May 15:20 0:10: Average *D3 Night 4-May 22:20 0:10: D3 Night 4-May 22:30 0:10: D3 Night 4-May 22:40 0:10: Average * Excluded from average. Table A1.4 Position D3 observed Ln-statistic data. 12 February 2018 Page 59 of 65

60 Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min D4 Day 5-May 10:20 0:10: D4 Day 5-May 10:30 0:10: D4 Day 5-May 10:40 0:10: Average D4 Night 4-May 23:50 0:10: D4 Night 5-May 0:00 0:10: D4 Night 5-May 0:10 0:10: Average Table A1.5 Position D4 observed Ln-statistic data. Site Period Date Time Duration LAeq,10min LAmax,10min LAmin,10min LA1,10min LA10,10min LA50,10min LA90,10min LA99,10min T3 Night 4-May 20:40 0:10: T3 Night 4-May 20:50 0:10: T3 Night 4-May 21:00 0:10: Average Table A1.6 Position T3 observed Ln-statistic data. 12 February 2018 Page 60 of 65

61 8 Appendix 2 The Southwood Fibre wood fibre mill site has the potential to generate high noise levels within adjoining facilities at the Huon Wood Centre site, specifically the Ta Ann facility located to the north. Noise mission limits for commercial/industrial premises in other ownership in Tasmania are typically as follows (from NSFP Southwood EPN 8784/2):- Figure A2.1 provides a near-field noise contour map of the Southwood wood fibre mill model scenario with the 65 dba contour in orange. Ta Ann facility Figure A2.1 - Predicted noise emission contours, Southwood chipping and screening, near-field. The contours provided in figure A2.1 above show that the 65 dba contour generated during chipping and screening at the Southwood Fibre wood fibre mill wouldn t impinge upon the Ta Ann facility. However, this is only the case as a result significant shielding provided by an existing waste pile between the Ta Ann facility and Southwood Fibre site. NB: The waste pile was modelled as a 6 m high feature and the chipper case and throat were assumed to be 4 m above ground height with throat orientation to the west. Figure A2.2 provides a photograph of the waste pile. 12 February 2018 Page 61 of 65

62 Figure A2.2 Photograph of waste pile between Ta Ann site and Southwood Fibre site. From the above Tarkarri Engineering provides the following comments and recommendations:- For a noise emission criteria of 65 dba to be complied with at the Ta Ann facility from noise generated by the Southwood Fibre wood fibre mill the waste pile shown in figure A2.2 would need to remain in place and potentially be extended to the south-east as indicated with a red arrow (this assumes that the top of the waste pile would be 2 m above the height of chipper and chipper throat). If the waste pile is removed, then a barrier system providing similar attenuation would be required. 12 February 2018 Page 62 of 65

63 9 Appendix Airborne construction noise A construction noise model scenario was developed in consultation with VDC to assess the potential impact from construction activity generated noise on residential locations surrounding Port Esperance. The following noise sources were modelled operating at the Strathblane chip loader site:- FEL. Excavator X 2 (X 1 near shoreline, X 1 at chip stockpile location). Rock breaker head (attached to chip stockpile excavator, for the development of stockpile base). Impact noise (max noise generation only, for the simulation of impact noise during conveyor system construction). Trucks X 2 (operating on site access road). Table A3.1 provides SWL data for the sources modelled (developed from Tarkarri Engineering library data). Sound power levels (dba) Source L Aeq L Amax FEL Excavator Rock breaker head Impact noise Truck Table A3.1 Construction noise source SWL levels. Table A3.2 provides predicted sound pressure levels (SPLs) at receivers D1 D4 (see figure 2.3) from the construction noise sources detailed above, under worst case propagation conditions (see section 5.2 for details) Predicted sound pressure levels (dba) Receiver L Aeq L Amax D D D D Table A3.2 Predicted construction noise SPLs. From the above Tarkarri Engineering provides the following comment and recommendations:- The predicted noise levels are well below the day noise emission criteria and noise impact on residential locations during this period (0700 to 1800 hrs) is expected to be minor. 12 February 2018 Page 63 of 65

64 Should Southwood fibre wish to conduct construction activity outside of the day period then Tarkarri Engineering recommends that rock breaker activity is not conducted at these times (i.e. restrict rock breaker activity to the day period only). Based on the model scenario outlined above construction activity, aside from rock breaking, is not expected to generate noise levels at receivers D1 D4 in excess of the following:- 30 dba L Aeq 35 dba L Amax 9.2 Underwater piling noise During the construction phase of the chip loader at the Strathblane site piling would be required during the loading structure construction for the conveyor and the chip sling boom. Figure A3.1 provides a schematic view of the proposed loading structure. Figure A3.1 Strathblane chip loader loading structure (provided be VDC). Tarkarri Engineering was commissioned by VDC on behalf of Southwood Fibre to provide a prediction of the potential underwater noise generated during piling activity (screw piling) at fish farm pens located in Port Esperance. An extensive literature review revealed a paucity of data relating to underwater noise levels generated by screw piling activity. Given this source noise data was taken from experimental small scale drilling conducted in UK. The reference for the data ultilised is as follows:- Willis, M.R., Broudic, M., Bhurosah, M. and Masters, I. (2010) Noise associated with small scale drilling operations. 3 rd International Conference on Ocean Energy. From this report a measured 1/3-octave band sound pressure level (SPL) 0-peak hold spectrum (frequency range 1 Hz to 20 khz) at 7.5 m from a rotating drill operating in rock was taken and back calculated to a SPL 0-peak hold spectrum at 1 m. Additional spectra were reported in the above reference that had been taken at greater distances than 7.5 m. Analysis of these SPL spectra at differing distances indicates that underwater noise attention at the study site can be approximated via the following spreading loss functions:- 12 February 2018 Page 64 of 65