Laserfiche WebLink
South Hinsdale Response to Objections <br /> 12 July 2022 <br /> permanent manmade structures (which includes utilities) which might be damaged, both <br /> on and off-site, by mining operations. <br /> Affected Land in River; Other Facilities <br /> Several objections claimed that the affected area's permit boundaries include a portion of <br /> the Piedra River itself, below the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM). The actual permit <br /> boundary on the north, west, and south side of the affected area follow the property <br /> boundaries of the Texer's Dancing Winds Ranch, which does NOT include any part of the <br /> River or the wetlands adjacent to the River. The nearest the Texers' land is to the river is <br /> approximately 45 feet. Approximately Y2-acre of the affected area, within 170 feet of the <br /> river, is identified as a "minimal impact area." <br /> A wetland, created artificially by return irrigation flows from the Texer's irrigated <br /> pastureland, is located in an otherwise ephemeral ravine on the Southeast corner of the <br /> affected area: the area of the bottom of the ravine (the channel)and the side of the ravine <br /> are identified as a "minimal impact area" <br /> Several comments claimed the pit boundary is within 500 feet of the "Upper Piedra <br /> Campground." This was a USFS campground which was abandoned, reclaimed, and <br /> partially replaced by a picnic area on the opposite bank of the river. Others pointed out <br /> the location of the trailhead parking area for the Ice Caves Trail and Piedra River Trail, <br /> about 1,000 feet to the north-northwest of the pit boundary, which is located on a former <br /> and reclaimed USFS gravel pit. It too is on the opposite side of the river and somewhat <br /> higher elevation (about 7680 versus about 7648 for the Piedra Road/Kleckner Lane <br /> intersection). Both facilities are well outside the standard area of consideration for negative <br /> impacts to significant manmade structures (200 feet). <br /> As described in the original application (Exhibits C & D), "minimal impact areas" are those <br /> areas where it is possible that storm water control measures (best management practices) <br /> can be placed or constructed to ensure that water which has come in contact with mining <br /> activities and materials, and which might be carrying suspended sediments or be <br /> contaminated by vehicle fluids of mining equipment, is prevented from flowing into the <br /> river or wetlands. Such BMP include silt fencing, wattles, straw bales, shallow swales, low <br /> earthen berms, and similar items to encourage infiltration (water soaking into the ground), <br /> evaporation, ,and sedimentation which can then be removed to prevent flow into waters of <br /> the State. <br /> Mining will Continue for Decades <br /> This project is Intended to last far less than a single decade, including time for reclamation, <br /> and during that period will have very limited periods of actual excavation and processing, <br /> with longer periods each year of hauling materials to customers. <br /> Lack of Public and Official Awareness <br /> Several claims were made that the project would "fly under the radar" of the public and <br /> officials, particularly in Archuleta County and Pagosa Springs, be ignored by Hinsdale <br /> County officials because of the location of the County Seat, or similar claims. The number <br /> of comments and objections demonstrate that this claim is erroneous. In addition, the <br /> preparer has personally contacted and kept Archuleta County officials aware of the <br /> proposal and discussed issues and impacts with them. Results of those discussions were <br /> and are included in the application and responses. Counties, State and Federal agencies <br /> participated extensively in the preparation and now in the review of the application, and <br /> will be aware of the actual operations, assuming the permits are granted. <br /> 5182-22-003 WASTELINE, INC. Page 83 of 107 <br />