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• INTRODUCTION - Continued <br />remained inactive, with the exception of reclamation operations being <br />conducted during the intervening period. <br />Underground mining was initiated at the Middle Creek Mine in May <br />1979 and was curtailed in June of 1980 when insurmountable geotechnical <br />constraints were encountered. The underground mine has not resumed <br />operations since the 1980 closure and the final strip pit used for the <br />portal area will be permanently backfilled and graded within the next two <br />years. <br />Socioeconomic Considerations <br />u <br />Coal mining was initiated before the turn of the century in Routt <br />County and has historically provided numerous employment opportunities <br />for local residents. The mining industry also indirectly benefits the <br />economy of nearby communities and generates revenue for the county and <br />state governments. <br />Since Energy Mine No. 3 is located in a remote rural setting that <br />was previously disturbed by mining, the impacts on adjacent property <br />owners and the public will be minimal. The proposed surface mine will <br />have no adverse effects upon Routt County social and technical services, <br />because the work force presently resides in neighboring communities and <br />• additional personnel will not be needed to operate the mine. <br />