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^~,- ~ • (Page 21 MINE ID # OR PROSPECTING ID # M-97-089 INSPECTION DATE 1129J~~ INSPECTOR'S INITIALS WFIE OBSERVATIONS This inspection occurred in response to BLM correspondence, dated 1 /28/99, indicating possible off-site discharge of water from the Stone Gravel Pit. Due to the potential for adverse environmental impacts resulting from off-site discharge and possible conflict with permit conditions, the Act and Rules, DMG conducted an inspection of the site. Clyde Johnson from the BLM, and the operator/permittee Daren Stone, participated in the inspection. Operations were active during the time of this inspection. Permit area encloses approximately 158 acres of mild sloped sagebrush lands. Current affected area was estimated at 13 acres, which includes approximately 4 acres for which the operator has completed reclamation backfilling, grading, topsoil replacement, and application of seed and mulch. Affected lands were contained within approved areas. Location The Stone Gravel Pit is located approximately 6 miles SW of Cortez, Colorado, at 5880' elevation, in portions of the S Y= of the SE 1!4 of Section 12, and N '/z of the NE 1/4 of Section 13, T35N, R17W, NMPM, Montezuma County. Surface lands are federal and administered by the BLM. Mineral rights are private and owned by the operator/permittee Daren Stone. Mine Access Mine identification sign was posted at the mine entrance. Perimeter of affected lands were delineated sufficiently. Mine access/haul road was well maintained. Public access is controlled for safety and security issues by locked gate, gate was open. Allegation of Off-Site Discharge The approved permit indicates that most of the drainage from affected lands will be contained within the excavation created by removal of the sand and gravel deposit. Affected area drainage not contained within the pit will be controlled by sediment retention berms and treated for sediment by silt fence and(or straw bale sediment filters prior to discharge. The approved permit allows controlled discharge of waters treated for sediment. During the inspection, the entire perimeter of affected lands were inspected for evidence of uncontrolled discharge. Evidence of affected area drainage escaping the permit area was not observed. Pit area exhibited internal drainage. Topsoil and overburden had been stockpiled in a +6' high windrow configuration surrounding the pit on the north, east and west pit boundaries. The stockpiled material provide additional control structures for drainage and noise. The operator stated that the only water on site is potable water purchased from the city of Cortez and utilized on-site for dust suppression purposes. The operator stated that clean water was essential to prevent clogging of the fine spray nozzles of the "fogger" dust suppression system for the rock crusher. One trailer mounted water tank, approximate 1100 gallon capacity, was parked adjacent to the rock crusher, located within the pit area. Hoses and pumps from the water trailer to the crusher appeared intact and functional. Minor dripage of water from the hose and pump couplings were contained within the pit area. No off-site discharge noted.