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two mine discharges were checked for temperature, conductivity and pH. The quality of these mine discharges has been characterized by the applicant to be of poor quality as demonstrated by the high levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). This information can be found in Section 2.04.7(2) of the permit application. These are the only known discharges of ground water in the permit area. A. Water Quality Standards and Effluent Limitations The Division has previously approved five small area exemptions from use of sediment ponds. The areas are of limited size and ponds and treatment facilities are not necessary for the drainage to meet the effluent limitations of Rule 4.05.2 and applicable State and Federal water quality standards for receiving streams. No mixing of surface drainage with a discharge from underground workings will occur. The small areas are located at the outslope of the sediment containment ditch (SAE No. 1), the former topsoil stockpile (SAE No. 2), the disturbed area east of access road (SAE No. 3), two drill sites (SAE No. 4), and the oil containment area (SAE No. 5). (4.05.2(3)(b)(i)) B. Sedimentation Ponds One sediment pond was constructed on site. The Division has approved the pond to remain as permanent. A letter from the current landowner requesting the pond to remain has been received by the Division. Retention of the pond is supportive of the postmining land uses of rangeland and wildlife habitat. Consultation of Division records for 1993, 1994, and 1995 verifies that the pond contained water in the spring and early summer of 1993 and 1994, and into October in 1995. The pond appears to periodically retain water in sufficient quantity to support the postmining land uses. No spoil springs exist at the site. The pond retains storm water runoff from rainfall and snowmelt. This runoff water is suitable for livestock and wildlife. C. Surface and Ground Water Monitoring As a result of Technical Revision No. 13, approved March 27, 1995, all ground water monitoring of the Rimrock site has ceased. The Division finds that the mining operation has had no diminution of or degradation to the groundwater quantity or quality. Ground water monitoring well 29-4 was sealed in compliance with Rule 4.07.3 in June 1995. (4.05.13(1)); 2. The applicant requested via Technical Revision No. 15 removal of the Engleville Gulch stream monitoring station. This revision was approved on August 20, 1997. No surface water monitoring is required other than sampling done under the CDPS permit for point source discharge 14