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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 a significant salinity increase in the North Fork <br /> of 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 of about 36.4 acre-feet of water per year for <br /> underground and above-ground dust suppression at the production rate of 6 <br /> million tons/year. The water was drawn from an existing surface water right of <br /> 1,300 acre-feet per year on the North Fork of the Gunnison River. More <br /> detailed information is available in the CHIA for the North Fork of the <br /> Gunnison River <br /> IV. Topsoil <br /> A. The Division has determined that selected overburden materials may be used for, <br /> or as a supplement to, topsoil. The resulting soil should be equal to or better than <br /> the available fill material. This determination will be based on physical and <br /> chemical analyses and field-site trials approved by the Division [4.06.2(4)(a)]. <br /> Oxbow Mining, LLC has agreed to remove and/or bury coal and coaly material on <br /> the pre-law Elk Creek yard area. Since topsoil is not available, the resulting <br /> surface material will be tested to determine if it is suitable as plant growth medium. <br /> If it is not, it will be covered by at least six inches of suitable plant growth medium <br /> or topsoil salvaged from development of the present coal mine waste pile area or <br /> the Sanborn Creek facilities areas. The areas stripped of topsoil for emplacement <br /> of the Sanborn Creek facilities will be regraded, tested, and treated with topsoil in a <br /> 29 <br />