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(rainfall and snow) fell on the LVSCS gravel fill prior to completion of the upper <br />synthetic liner. This translates to approximately 5 million gallons of meteoric water, <br />which was entrapped in the LVSC gravel fill. As the VLF was loaded with ore, this <br />water began to be pushed to the LVSCS sump as pressure was increased on the LVSC <br />gravel fill and pore space was reduced. This is expected. Approximately 2.5 million <br />gallons of this water has been pumped from the LVSCS. It is anticipated that the <br />remaining 2.5 million gallons entrapped in fhe LVSCS gravel fill will be pumped out <br />over time as ore loading within the PSSA footprint continues to increase pressure and <br />reduce pore space. <br />On November 24, 2003, the volume of water pushed.to the LVSC sump slightly exceeded <br />the pumping capacity, resulting in an increase in hydraulic head. DMG was notified and <br />CC&V continued to pump water and monitor levels. This condition continued until flow <br />to the LVSCS sump subsided and hydraulic head was reduced to normal levels. Based on <br />engineering data previously submitted to the DMG, at no time was there sufficient head <br />to cause any engineering concern with the liner or containment system. <br />CC&V has continued to observe fluctuating inflows to the LVSCS sump as ore loading <br />has progressed within the vicinity of the PSSA. Such fluctuations aze anticipated to <br />continue until such time as the approximate 2.5 million gallons of water is squeezed to <br />the sump and pumped out. <br />A lazger pump has been installed in one of the two Phase IV LVSCS pump caissons. This <br />pump is capable of pumping approximately 35 gpm and operates in conjunction with the <br />existing pump. The pump is level controlled and includes an installed pressure <br />transducer to provide level readings in the pump house. This increased pumping capacity <br />is sufficient to handle the higher inflows. In addition, a spare pump assembly is in stock <br />at the site in the event a replacement pump is needed. <br />CC&V will continue to monitor flow and water quality in the LVSCS. In addition, sump <br />levels aze checked twice per operating shift. <br />A detailed analysis by Golder Associates is enclosed which explains the engineering <br />basis for the summary conclusions presented in this letter. <br />This letter and accompanying report. aze filed in response to your inspections of <br />November 25 and November 28, as detailed in your inspection report dated December 9, <br />2003 and received on December 16, 2003. <br />If you have questions, please contact me at (719)-689-4056. <br />Since e , <br />Phil B nes ~~ <br />Manager Environmental Resources <br />Enclosure <br />