Laserfiche WebLink
vegetation and straw filters. All point source discharges are regulated under <br />the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System ( NPDES). Specific <br />details regarding the sediment and drainage control systems are found in the <br />Sanborn Creek Mine Permit, pages 2.05 -34 through 38 and Map 2.05 -M4 <br />(sheets 1 through 6). <br />Drainage from disturbed areas can contribute additional suspended solids to <br />offsite stream systems; however, the above - referenced sediment control <br />systems will effectively control sediment yield to offsite areas. Other <br />applicable effluent limitations will also be met, as required by the NPDES <br />permit. There is no evidence of acid - forming or toxic - producing materials. <br />The operation will result in slightly increased total dissolved solids levels in <br />the North Fork of the Gunnison River. The sources are the discharge from the <br />underground workings of the Elk Creek Tract, and drainage from waste piles <br />located at the site. The previously documented discharges from the Somerset <br />Mine no longer exist since mining and mine dewatering activities have ceased <br />and the old portals have been permanently sealed. Specific anticipated water <br />quality impacts are discussed within the Cumulative Hydrologic Impact Study <br />for the North Fork of the Gunnison River. It has been found that the Elk Creek <br />Mine operation will not cause significant salinity increase in the North Fork of <br />the Gunnison River. <br />The mine will not adversely impact flooding processes or streamflows in the <br />North Fork of the Gunnison River. Mining operations are not expected to <br />decrease flows in any of the ephemeral or intermittent drainages to be <br />undermined. The operation will not adversely impact downstream water users. <br />The operator will use about 36.4 acre -feet per year for underground and <br />above - ground dust suppression at the production rate of 6 million tons /year. <br />This water will be drawn from an existing surface water right of 1300 acre -feet <br />per year on the North Fork of the Gunnison River. More detailed information <br />is available in the CHIS for the North Fork of the Gunnison River. <br />IV. Topsoil <br />A. The Division has determined that selected overburden materials may be used for, <br />or as a supplement to, topsoil. The resulting soil should be equal to or better than <br />the available fill material. This determination will be based on physical and <br />chemical analyses and field -site trials approved by the Division (4.06.2(4)(a)). <br />Oxbow Mining, LLC has agreed to remove and /or bury coal and coaly material on <br />the pre -law Elk Creek yard area. Since topsoil is not available, the resulting <br />surface material will be tested to determine if it is suitable as plant growth medium. <br />If it is not, it will be covered by at least six inches of suitable plant growth medium <br />or topsoil salvaged from development of the present coal mine waste pile area or <br />the Sanborn Creek facilities areas. The areas stripped of topsoil for emplacement <br />of the Sanborn Creek facilities will be regraded following mining, tested and <br />23 <br />