Laserfiche WebLink
the variance request applied to extensive segments of the Wadge fmal pits and <br />associated spoils extending through much of the length of the south extension area. The <br />highwall mining and subsequent pit backfilling proposed within PR-4 could not be <br />completed along the length of the fmal Wadge pits, without approval of a variance from <br />the 180 day time frame for rough backfilling and grading following surface extraction. <br />Rule 4.14.1(1)(c) states that: <br />Rough bac~lling and grading shall be completed within 180 days following coal <br />removal and sha/1 not be more than four spoil ridges behind the pit being worked, <br />the spoil from the active pit being considered the first ridge. The Division may <br />grant additional time for rough bacl~lling and grading if the permittee can <br />demonstrate, through a detailed written analysis under 2.05.4(2)(c), that additional <br />time is necessary. <br />PR-4 amendments identified specific dragline final pit locations for which a variance <br />from the 4.14.1(1)(c) backfilling timeframe requirement was requested, in order to <br />accommodate highwall miner operations. The locations included 1600 feet of the <br />Wadge "ridgeline pit" to be completed by the end of 2005, and specified segments of <br />existing and future final Wadge Pits in the south extension area to be completed in 2006 <br />and 2007. The total length of final highwall to which the variance applied was 9,200 <br />feet. <br />Based on the justification provided in PR-4 amended narrative, and the detailed <br />timeframe commitments included in the narrative and amended Exhibit 19-1A, the <br />Division approved the requested variances from the 180 day rough backfilling and <br />grading requirement of 4.14.1(])(c). The variances applied to the variance request <br />areas described and depicted in amended Tab 19 narrative and amended Exhibit 19-1A. <br />With the approval of PR-4, the "end of 2004" deadline for the "ridgeline pit" approved <br />in 2004, no longer applied. The variance applied solely to the timing of backfilling and <br />grading, and did not allow for more than four spoil ridges behind the pit being worked. <br />In association with PR-4, two changes were made to the Reclamation Scheduling table <br />on page 6 of Tab i9. First, the time period for Final Grading was amended to include <br />specific reference to the schedule on Exhibit 19-1A. Second, a specified time period for <br />permanent channel construction was inserted ("...within one year of completion of final <br />grading of adjacent backfill slopes...°). <br />Backfilling and grading timeframes (including variance request areas and <br />deadlines) have been revised once again by PR-5, as a result of the early cessation <br />of coal extraction, decision not to implement highwal[ mining, and associated <br />reclamation plan changes. <br />Seneca II-W Findings Document 54 June 12, 2006 <br />Pennit Renewal No. 5 <br />