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Alternative N3 - Pneumatic Capsule Pipeline This alternative is an innovative mode of coa] transportation oriyinally suyyested for investigation by the Bureau of Land Management, f,Wl is work- iny with the developer of the pneumatic capsule pipeline system, TUBEXPRESS Systems, Inc., on the potential application of the system at Orchard Valley Mine. The technology is so far unproven, so any commercial use at CWI would be of a demonstration type. Physical Description The pneumatic capsule pipeline system would consist of dual 30-inch O,D. pipelines, each approximately 2.35 miles long (see Drawiny k5), which would be buried to a depth of 2-3 ft, throughout most of the route (see Drawing #7). The pipeline would be constructed above the ground surface for a short dis- tance at the Orchard Valley Mine site, at the train loadout unloadiny sta- tion, and through large, sharp depressions in the ground surface, such as streambeds or swales where it would be supported by towers or other support structures (see Drawings 6B and 6C). As the system would be fully enclosed and possibly insulated where it would be exposed above the ground surface, no safety fencing would be needed, The facilities at the ends of the capsule pipelines would include a loading terminal at the Orchard Valley Mine and an unloading terminal with the main- tenance control center, at the train loadout area (see Drawings 6 and 6A). The difference in elevation from the loading and unloading terminals would be approximately 1,150 ft. Capsule trains composed of five individual capsules would transport coal through the pipeline. The preliminary capsule length considered would be 14 ft „ with a total loaded weight per capsule of approximately 1,766 lbs. Construction Construction activity would be contained within a 100 ft. maximum right-of- way corridor along the pipeline route. The pipeline construction would be accessed by the pipeline route itself; no light-use road construction would be necessary. The pipeline manufacturing and installation would be com- pleted by a specialty construction and engineering company (maximum of 39). When possible, local contractors would be hired for earthwork, steel con- struction, general construction work, and pipeline placement (maximum of 28). Approximately nine months would be required to complete construction of the pipeline. See Figure N4 for construction schedule and manpower requirements. Conventional earthmoving equipment would be utilized to clear vegetation front the pipeline route. No additional disturbance would be planned around the Orchard Valley Mine site and Orchard Valley Storage and Loadout Area. The vegetation slash would be pushed to one side of the pipeline construction area and stored, Drainage control measures would he utilized to reduce or el iminate erosion and sedimentation. Such measures as straw dikes, vegetative buffers, etc „ would be constructed as required. Existing irrigation ditches would be relocated during non-irrigation times so no interruption of irrigation flow would occur. Topsoil would be stripped from 25