INSPEC46321

• Permit No: C1981033
• IBM Index Class Name: Inspection
• Doc Name: COAL INSPECTION REPORT
• Inspection Date: 11/20/1997
• Media Type: D
• Archive: No

subsequent inspection, the Division finds that the Mine No. 1 and 2 portal reclamation
complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
Previous DMG inspections had indicated the possible presence of seeps around the
Bear Mine No. 1 and No. 2 portal areas. This inspection did not result in the
observation of any seeps or wet areas. Vegetation did not indicate the presence of
areas which were wetter than others, and observed species were fairly consistent
throughout the area.
The initial August 3, 1994 DMG bond release inspection report indicated the operator
needed to clean up remaining debris around the sites. This had been done.
At the end of the tipple bench road, there was a round metal and cement cap at
ground level. It was not clear what purpose the cap had served. Review of mine
photographs indicates that any disturbance in this area existed prior to the enactment
of SMCRA, and had not been used in conjunction with the Bear Mines operation.
Accordingly, DMG will not require removal of the structure, nor will there be a
requirement for any other reclamation work in the pre-law area.
The loadout area disturbance from the Bear No. 1 and 2 Mines is not included in the
areas for which Bear Coal Company is liable for reclamation. All of the areas
disturbed by loadout operations are now within either the West Elk Mine permit
boundary, the new State Highway 133 right of way, the old State Highway 133
prescriptive use area, or the railroad right of way. DMG inspectors viewed this area to
ensure that there was not any Bear Mine disturbance outside of these areas, and
found no evidence that there had been additional disturbance. This is also supported
by a review of aerial photographs of the site taken during its operational phase.
Based on this inspection, it is apparent that Bear Coal Company has successfully
reclaimed the Bear No. 1 and 2 Mine areas. Observations during the inspection did
not identify any outstanding reclamation requirements, nor any problems which would
warrant denial of Bear Coal Compan~s request for final bond release.
Structures remaining to be removed include the shop, substation, and fuel station.
The operator indicated the substation would be dismantled the day of the inspection;
the transformers and most of the equipment had been removed. The operator
indicated the purchaser of the shop building was planning to start dismantling the
structure on 11/22!97, and that it was expected to take 2-3 days. Vehicles, a
considerable amount of debris, and supplies still need to be removed. Concrete from
all demolished structures has been removed. A small shed and culvert sections
which have been sold remained on site, but will be removed. The pump house behind
the shop had not been demolished. The operator indicated plans to request approval
for its permanent retention. The pump supplies water to the office, which has been
approved for permanent retention.
Bear Nines November 20, 1997