As we head into spring, the peak time for air quality pollution in the Upper Hunter, the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will return with the annual Bust the Dust campaign.
Dry westerly winds, at this time of the year, whip up the dust on the region's open cut coal mines delivering air quality alerts for PM10 exceedances across the region.
The PM10 particles are associated with mining activity and their presence is recorded by the Upper Hunter's 14 air quality monitors.
Now in its sixth year, the regulatory campaign returns with strengthened penalties which came into force after passing into law in 2024.
Mines found to be in breach of their licence conditions now face significantly higher penalties, including $30,000 for a first offence and $45,000 for a subsequent offence.
So far this year there have been 107 air quality alerts issued for the Upper Hunter with virtually all for PM10. It is notable number given the region has recorded well above average rainfall, a fact that usually significantly reduces dust pollution.
Warkworth has recorded the highest number of alerts followed by Bulga and Jerrys Plains. In 2024 there were 207 alerts recorded and in 2023 there were 322 alerts - the majority during spring. The lowest number in recent years was 2022 with just 39 alerts.
During the campaign, EPA Operations Officers will be out in force doing roadside surveillance, unannounced inspections and using drones to monitor dust generation.
NSW EPA Director Operations David Gathercole said he recognises the community wants to see stronger regulation to ensure open cut mines don't contribute to air pollution.
"While we regulate dust emissions year-round, regional air quality monitoring shows spring is a peak time for particle pollution.
"The Bust the Dust campaign is a timely reminder for operators to have the right practices in place before we come knocking.
"Mines can prevent dust pollution through improved surveillance and reporting and by deploying water on stockpiles and roads or just ceasing work during dry and windy conditions," Mr Gathercole said.
Earlier this year, Warkworth Mining in Mount Thorley entered into a legally binding agreement to improve dust management. The mine was forced to pay $120,000 to a local environmental rehabilitation project after finding operational failures during the Bust the Dust campaign in 2023.
More than 11 mines were inspected across the region in last year's campaign, and all were found to be managing dust appropriately.
Community members are encouraged to report concerns about dust emissions to the Environment Line on 131 555 or via email at [email protected].