ENFORCE29356 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

.~. r Blue Ribbon Mine NOV C-84-049 Descriotion of the Violation During my inspection of March 22, 1984 I noted that the mine bench had moved 1-2 feet on the east edge. The drainage system off this area was rendered inoperable. Water was ponding on the bench and seeping into several cracks that had developed. The mine contact, John Burtard, indicated that the bulk of the slide occurred over 10 days prior to the inspection. It is essential that positive mine drainage be maintained on the bench to reduce saturation of the fill and decrease the likelihood of a slide. Four separate problems dealing with the bench slide and drainage system were noted in 1983 (Problem 83-5,10,14, and 16). These problems were noted or listed as unresolved in 9 of the monthly inspections conducted by MLRD in 1983. Although the Division recognizes that bench movement is anticipated it is expected that we be notified of any significant movement. Notification is required under Rule 4.12, Slides and Other Damage. In addition Blue Ribbon is required to continually maintain the drainage system even during movement to minimize the potential for future damage. The notice of violation was issued for failure to notify the Division of the slide and failure to maintain the drainage system. Rationale for Proposed Civil Penalty The penalty was assessed in accordance with the procedures set forth in Rule 5.04.5. Rule 5.04.5(2)(a) - History of Previous Violations: This rule requires that $50.00 be assessed for each previous violation issued within the past 12 months, up to a maximum of $1,750.00. As two violations were issued to the operator during the past twelve months, the penalty assessed was $100.00. History Total: $100.00 Rule 5.04.5(21(b1 -Seriousness of the Violation 1. Probability of Damage Occurring - The bench slide had rendered the drainage system inoperable. No adjacent damage to the stream, topsoil pile, road, or pond below the portal had occurred, but the potential for damage existed if a major slide occurred. 2. Duration of Damage - Duration of damage may last several months since mitigation measures during spring runoff would be difficult.