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~ j <br />stream/alluvial aquifer system. A quantitative assessment of <br />these effects is provided in the discussion of probable <br />hydrologic consequences contained in this findings document. <br />That assessment predicts the stream flow depletion to be less <br />than 2 percent of the average stream flow in Ward Creek, and less <br />than 7 percent of the lowest stream flow observed in Ward Creek. <br />The predicted water quality resulting from the mining activities <br />would not prevent the use of surface water for flood irrigation. <br />3. The essential hydrologic functions of the alluvial valley floors <br />would be preserved. The most important characteristics of the <br />Williams Creek. and Ward Creek alluvial valley floors are the <br />integrity of the present irrigation system and the ability of the <br />surface water system to supply sufficient irrigation water to <br />farming activities on the alluvial valley floors. As discussed <br />above, surface disturbances were located outside of the alluvial <br />valley floors, and mining was limited to 50-56 percent extraction <br />to minimize surface subsidence effects. Any surface effects are <br />anticipated to be minor, and capable of remedy. The operator has <br />committed to promptly regrading depressions, swells, or cracks if <br />any develop as a result of subsidence. As a result, the surface <br />topography and the integrity of the existing irrigation system <br />would be preserved. Since no significant effect to the quantity <br />or quality of the water which supplies the alluvial valley floor <br />is expected, the supply of irrigation water would also be <br />preserved. <br />XVII. Operations on Prime Farmland <br />A. An investigation was made in the fall of 1980 to determine if the <br />land within the proposed permit area is prime farmland. Pursuant to <br />Rule 2.07.6(2)(k), the Division has made a negative determination for <br />the presence of prime farmland for the following reasons: <br />1. The land has not been historically used as cropland. The land <br />within the permit area was wildlife habitat. <br />2. The slope of the land varies from 20 to 60 percent. <br />3. The land is not irrigated or subirrigated, and has no developed <br />water supply that is dependable or of adequate quality, and the <br />average annual precipitation is 12 inches. <br />4. The permit area is covered by glacial deposits that consist of <br />sand, sediment and boulders. <br />5. No soil map units within the permit area have been designated as <br />prime farmland. <br />XVIII. Mountaintop Removal <br />A. This section does not apply to the Red Canyon Mine. <br />XIX. Operations of Steep Slopes <br />A. This section does not apply to the Red Canyon Mine. <br />XX. In-Situ Processing <br />A. This section does not apply to the Red Canyon Mine. <br />29 <br />