Khalifa, A & So, HB 2026, 'Assessing the influence of variable batter gradients on long-term erosional stability 
of rehabilitated mine landforms: application of MINErosion 3 as a design tool', in AB Fourie, G Boggs, J Heyes & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2026: Proceedings of the 19th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-10, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2615_51
(https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/2615_51_Khalifa/)
Abstract: Mine closure projects frequently require verification that reconstructed landforms will achieve long-term erosional stability under defined slope constraints and cover-system configurations. A recurrent engineering and regulatory question concern the implications of modifying batter gradients (e.g. from 16.7% to 20% or 25%) on both erosional response and hydrological performance, particularly where alternative cover materials and depths are proposed.
This paper reviews modelling approaches available for assessing slope-gradient sensitivity in post-mining landscapes, including RUSLE, WEPP and Landscape Evolution Models (LEMs), and identifies their respective strengths and limitations for design optimisation. The MINErosion 3 hillslope erosion model is then presented as a practical and scientifically validated tool for assessing the effect of slope gradient, slope length and vegetation cover on both annual and event-based erosion rates. Drawing upon the original development and validation documented in Khalifa (2010) and So et al. (2018), this paper demonstrates how MINErosion 3 can be utilised iteratively as a design-support tool to evaluate alternative batter geometries and cover systems, thereby informing Environmental Authority amendments and Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan (PRCP) updates.

Keywords: soil erosion, modelling, WEPP, MINErosion, rehabilitation, open cut, mining