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2.05.6 (3) (6) (iii) • RESPONSE continued -_ The data from the wells will be recorded in a permanent format, accessible to any regulatory agencies. 2.05.6 (3)(b) (iv) A determination of the probable hydrologic consequences of the proposed surface coal mining activities, or underground mining activities, on the proposed permit area and adjacent area, with respect to hydrologic regime and the quantity and quality of water in surface and ground water systems under all seasonal conditions, including the contents of dissolved and total _sus- pended solids, total iron, pH, total manganese, and other para- meters required by the Division. RESPONSE -= Hydrologic Balance = The climate of the permit area and surrounding vicinity is typi- cal of semiarid steepe regions. Precipitation is sparse (ap- proximately 30 inches per year) and potential evapotranspiration • (approximately 30 inches per year ) normally exceeds the mois- ture supply. Table 23 illustrates this relationship (see Section 2.04.7) . Very little water is available for deep percolation or runoff except during periods of snowmelt or exceptional rainfall. The above indication of limited deep percolation is supported by the presence of calcareous "C" horizons in the Delphill and Waterion soils present on the site. But, the Routt (north facing slopes) and Hesperus (swale area) soils do not show calcareous depositis within the upper 60 inches, indicating the possibility of moisture movement to at least that depth. Ground water re- charge may occur in these areas during snowmelt. The sufrace portions of the soils within the permit area have moderate permeabilities (0.6-2.0 inches/hour) and relatively high available water capacities (0.16-0.21 inches/inch). This indi- cates an ability to absorb the moisture from storms of moderate intensity with little or no runoff or contribution to the ground _ water system.