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• i -35- to more accurately predict impacts on the stream in the future. Thickness of overburden is much less under Scullion Gulch than Red Wash. The Staley-Gordon mine, abandoned in 1970, has only 200 to 300 feet for overburden thickness, comparable to that under Scullion Gulch in the Deserado Mine. No surface expressions of subsidence have been noted over caved areas in the Staley-Gordon Mine. Examination by Western Fuels, Inc. showed that the one known roof fall in this mine caused a collapse that extended only 16 feet above the roof line where it was halted by a massive, competent sandstone. Tension cracks probably did occur above the Staley-Gordon mine, but have been healed by weathering. Similar tension cracks may cause several stock ponds in the Scullion Gulch basin (within Federal Coal Leases C-8424 and C-8425) to lose some impounded water. To prevent this loss, the permittee may modify mining procedures beneath the pond aras. If the mine plan is not modified, compensation for any water losses due to mining will be made. The ponds will be repaired or replaced and water hauled in until the recovery is complete. (Page II. C-106c of the permit application). See the Subsidence Section of this Findings Document for further details on impacts related to subsidence. In summary, the impact of mining on the ground water hydrologic system will be minimal, primarily because of the limited amount of ground water which is naturally found in the area. A slight improvement in the quality of water reaching the White River should result when water is brought to the surface and consumptively used or discharged. No significant cumulative hydrologic impacts are expected as a result of the mining activities at Deserado Mine. The Division finds, in accordance with CRS 34-33-114(2)(c) and Rule 2.07.6(2)(c), that the operation has been designed to prevent material damage outside the permit area.