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underground mining activities. As projected, these impacts are localized and will most <br /> probably continue in the proximity of the mined area. <br /> As projected, subsidence in Red Wash initially resulted in water ponding in the stream <br /> bottom. The high content of silt and clay carried by Red Wash rapidly filled the ponds. The <br /> silt and clay layers have sealed any cracks that formed in the alluvium as the result of <br /> subsidence. Water continues to flow in the surface channel in Red Wash. <br /> 3.3 Significance of Impacts to Use of Water <br /> The current rate of withdrawal of water from the White River is well below that projected at <br /> full production. Based on the current level of production and the current rate of withdrawal, <br /> BME is not likely to exceed the projected withdrawal rates even at higher production levels. <br /> However, withdrawal rates are expected to increase in future years as coal washing <br /> forecasts increase due to variations in the coal deposit and coal quality needs of the power <br /> plant. <br /> 3.4 Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures <br /> Mitigation measures at the Deserado Mine primarily include impoundment structures to <br /> control runoff from surface sites and coal refuse piles. These structures have worked well <br /> for containing and treating runoff as no out of compliance discharges from these <br /> impoundments have occurred. Reclamation of areas disturbed during construction and <br /> management practices are effective in controlling both erosion and suspended solids during <br /> runoff events. Sediment control structures such as berms, ponds and sediment fences are <br /> used to control runoff from disturbed areas until they are revegetated and stabilized. <br /> 3.5 Changes Necessary to Minimize Impacts <br /> Based on the success of mitigation measures to date and the impacts so far observed, no <br /> changes in mining operations or procedures are warranted. <br /> 14 <br />