Laserfiche WebLink
<br />F. Neither s:zpportiz:g studies nor cited scientific data show that toxic, acid-forzz:ing, or <br />toxic-producing materials are absent from the site. No s:~bstantive basis for plans to <br />prevent negative iznpacts on ground az:d surface water. <br />RESPONSE. The gravel is composed dominantly of andesite and latite, which <br />are neither acid producing nor contain elevated metal concentrations. A study is <br />not necessary. Experience at numerous other sites provides ample anecdotal <br />evidence in this regard. <br />G. No testing of groundwater prior to znining. No baseline data gathering regzzireznents. <br />RESPONSE. While it would be advisable to collect groundwater quality <br />information prior to mining at this deposit and to monitor for key constituents to <br />insure that operations proceed as planned, background water quality data are not <br />characteristically required for gravel operations. <br />H. Effects of mining on water gtzality and temperature of Dolores River. <br />RESPONSE. Temperature would be regulated through the CDPS discharge <br />permit. <br />L No specific safeguards to ensure containznen[ of toxins_frozn river. During high flow, <br />pollzzted water will coagulate and saturate the ground of adjacent properties then <br />stagnate. <br />RESPONSE. It is not anticipated that pollutants will be generated in quantities <br />sufficient to warrant safeguards. <br />J. Mining will raise radioactive radon which will precipitate in high concentration on <br />dust. The radioactive dust will settle into the soil and adversely affect the ecosystem. <br />RESPONSE. There appears to be no reason to anticipate that dust will <br />preferentially concentrate radon, and no reason to indicate that the radon flux from <br />the sediments will increase measureably as a result of mining. <br />K Radioactive dust in the air will adversely affect migratory birds, tourists and residents <br />traversing the valley. <br />RESPONSE. This comment is without substance. <br />L. Elevated Hg levels in McPhee Reservoir frsh may res:dt from gravel mining. <br />12 <br />