2013-10-29_INSPECTION - C1980007

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Next, we proceeded to MDW E4 -68 which had not been drilled. The sides of the access road leading to the MWD tied into the surrounding area and no erosion was observed as it was heavily covered with slash and had been roughened. The pad area also blended into the natural terrain, was stable, and had been roughened. Additionally, positive drainage off the pad area had been reestablished and no erosion was observed due to abundant slash and good vegetation, although some thistle was present and will need to be treated. MDW E1 -48 was electrically fenced and located on a very steep slope. Straw waddles had been installed to control drainage and erosion. The pad area was stable and blended into the natural topography. Positive drainage off the pad area had been reestablished and there was no evidence of erosion due to good vegetation considering the steepness of the slope. Some small tension cracks were noticed on the site. Although the cracks will likely heal themselves, MCC needs to monitor them. In addition, the well -head survey pin was not observed, so MCC will need to identify the well -head location and affix a pin. Lastly, we observed MDW's E1 -52, E1 -53, and E1 -55. This area was also electrically fenced and located on a very steep slope. Straw waddles had been installed to control drainage and erosion. The north side of the pad experienced a slide in 2012. As a result, MCC installed a French drain to promote long -term stability. No tension cracks were observed on the steep slope, and positive drainage off the pad area had been reestablished with no erosion. The pad area blended in with the surrounding topography and is well vegetated and stable. Finally, the well -head survey pins were not observed, so MCC will need to identify the well -head locations and affix the pins. The DRMS did not identify any significant issues with the reclamation of the West Elk Mine that is being proposed for bond release, and no enforcement actions were taken during this inspection. However, DRMS will follow -up and verify that all well -head locations have been identified and the required survey pins are in place before a proposed Phase I bond release decision is prepared. Additionally, MCC needs to monitor the superficial tension cracks identified at MDW's 21 -25.5, 21 -28, and E 1 -48, as well as the slide area at MDW's E 1 -52, El- 53, and E1 -55. Weed control efforts will also be continued, but are not connected with Phase I bond release considerations. This concluded the OSM portion of this partial Phase I bond release inspection. Please address any questions concerning this report to Howard Strand, Management /Program Analyst, at hstrandkosmre.gov or to (303) 293 -5026.