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found on Page 2.05-96b of the PAP. <br /> A similar mine water transfer operation was proposed for the Hubbard Creek <br /> Fan-site facility, and approved under TR-51 in September 2005. With this <br /> operation, D-Seam water may be transferred to the B-Seam workings. <br /> 2. Effects on Surface Water <br /> The areas of surface disturbance at the Somerset Mine are protected by <br /> sediment control systems including diversion and containment ditches, <br /> sediment ponds, and other alternate sediment control features such as rock, <br /> 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 on pages <br /> 2.05-34 through 38 and Map 2.05-M4 (sheets 1 through 6) of the PAP. <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 was permitted use about 36.4 acre-feet per year for underground <br /> and above-ground dust suppression at the production rate of 6 million <br /> tons/year. The water was drawn from an existing surface water right of 1,300 <br /> acre-feet per year on the North Fork of the Gunnison River. More detailed <br /> information is available in the CHIA for the North Fork of the Gunnison River. <br /> 22 <br />