Laserfiche WebLink
monitoring results show, the predictions we made as to the ground water levels were <br />accurate. Water levels in Phase 1 were no higher than 43 feet from the surface and <br />irrigation was kept on in Phase 2 and part of Phase 1 for the entire season. Without <br />this irrigation, levels would have even been lower. Irrigation started on April 1, 2004 <br />and ended on October 15, 2004. The effect of irrigation on the water levels in the holes <br />was not seen until May 31, 2004, when levels started to rise beyond the background <br />levels. Prior to May 10, water was only seen in Hole A-3 while the others were dry. By <br />May 31, water was seen in all holes. <br />This shows that the porosity and permeability of the gravel combined with the high <br />thickness and the small irrigable area that drains to the pit will simply will not allow <br />water levels to get high. The data presented to the Board by us has proven to be true. <br />Summary of Water Level Monitoring Data <br />Hole # Total 4/26/04 Highest Comments <br /> Depth of Start Water <br /> Hole (Ft Level Level <br /> from (Ft from During Yr <br /> surface) surface) (Ft from <br /> surface) <br />1 62 60 50 This level will drop when irrigation <br /> in Phase 1 and 2 are stopped <br />2 62 58 47 This level will drop when irrigation <br /> in Phase 1 and 2 are stopped <br />3 62 52 43 This level will drop when irrigation <br /> in Phase 1 and 2 are stopped <br />4 62 62 50 This level will drop when irrigation <br /> in Phase 1 and 2 are stopped <br />The pH and specific conductance readings are shown on the attached page. These <br />values for Holes 3 and 4 (Phase 1) are normal for the waters of the surrounding area. <br />Hole 7 shows a relatively low pH and high dissolved solids. This is likely due to some <br />pyrite near the shale zone that oxidizes more easily since it is very close to the surface. <br />This is a natural condition and has nothing to do with the mining operation. It is much <br />further south than the permit area and is upgradient of the mine activity. Also, the test <br />was done in January of 2005 and the condition probably goes to normal during <br />irrigation season with the increased flows. There is no problem with water quality near <br />the current mining operation. Hole A-7 and A-8 should be monitored for field <br />