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J. Stream Buffer Zones <br /> The PAP for the Loadout discusses buffer zones on pages 3 - 4 in Tab 14, but references <br /> the old version of Rule 4.05. 18. The rule changed in March 2001, and the PAP will <br /> need to be updated to reflect the change in the rule (The old language of the rule <br /> requires buffer zones for perennial streams or streams with a biological community; in <br /> the revised language the rule applies to perennial, intermittent, or ephemeral streams <br /> with drainage area greater than one square mile). <br /> The PAP calls for buffer zones for Dry Creek and Sage Creek. The PAP does not <br /> discuss the need (or lack of need)for buffer zones along other creeks, such as Stokes <br /> Gulch and Grassy Creek. It is unclear if these other creeks are large enough to warrant <br /> having buffer zones. At some point in the near future, a buffer zone assessment of these <br /> creeks should be performed by HGT, and this discussion should be added to the PAP. <br /> This assessment must consider the updated rule, which requires some ephemeral streams <br /> to have a buffer zone. <br /> Exceptions to the buffer zone rule are listed for Dry Creek(railroad crossing and Pond <br /> 2) and Sage Creek(Tie -Across Haul Road). These have been accepted by the Division. <br /> No mining activities are permitted to take place within 100 feet of Dry Creek or Sage <br /> Creek with the exception of— <br /> 1. The Rail Loop <br /> 2. The tracks and right of way for railway loop <br /> 3. Loadout facilities water line <br /> 4. Electric substation <br /> 5. TAHR <br /> 1. The Division approved surface mining activities within 100 feet of a perennial <br /> stream with a biological community. This decision was based on a finding that the <br /> original stream channel will be restored, water quality and quantity will not be <br /> adversely affected as a result of the disturbance, and appropriate riparian vegetation <br /> will be reestablished upon final reclamation. (4.05. 18(1). <br /> K. Probable Hydrologic Consequences <br /> The probable hydrologic consequences of mining within the HGT permit area are <br /> addressed within Volume 3, Tab 15 of the PAP. HGT's statement of hydrologic effects <br /> has been reviewed by the Division for compliance with Rule 4.05. 1 and 2.05. 6(3). <br /> 1. Surface Water Impacts <br /> Surface water runoff from the Loadout area passes through one of two sedimentation <br /> ponds. Discharges from these ponds are subject to effluent limitations identified in <br /> HGT's NPDES permit. The existing ponds have performed adequately and no <br /> discharges in excess of NPDES effluent limits have been reported to date. <br /> 20 <br />