Laserfiche WebLink
• would approximate the premining channel configuration. <br />• will blend with the undisturbed drainage above and below <br />the area to be reclaimed, and <br />• shall maintain the average stream gradients with a stable <br />longitudinal profile. <br />In addition, Section 4.05.4(4) allows for the construction of <br />permanent stream channel diversions when: <br />• the channels are designed and constructed to restore the <br />channel to approximate its natural meandering pattern. <br />• the channel remains in dynamic equilibrium with the <br />overall drainage basin without use of artificial structural <br />controls. <br />• the stream is established or restored to include a <br />diversity of aquatic habitats when appropriate, and <br />• the natural riparian vegetation on the banks of the <br />stream is maintained, restored, or enhanced where <br />practicable. <br />For the following reasons, I find that DMG has appropriately <br />addressed the issue raised in Part 1 of the TDN. <br />• The 8-foot culvert does not contribute to diminution of <br />downstream water rights. <br />• The average stream gradient has been maintained with a <br />stable longitudinal profile. <br />• The channel has been established to approximate the <br />natural meandering pattern with a DMG-approved <br />geomorphically acceptable gradient. <br />• Because the diversion has no structural controls, the <br />entire diversion, including the culvert, is in dynamic <br />equilibrium with the drainage basin system. <br />• Starkville Gulch is a dry ephemeral drainage containing <br />no natural aquatic habitats and little vegetation. <br />• A portion of the culvert collapsed in 1994 due to a fully <br />loaded scraper passing over the culvert repeatedly during <br />reclamation operations in 1993. The chance of such heavy <br />equipment use by or near the culvert during the course of <br />postmining livestock grazing operations is remote. <br />2 <br />