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disturbance prior to the landslide. Damage to certain completed and partially-completed haul roads, and to one topsoil pile, was also documented. It was also noted that the Tri-State electrical power line and poles situated south of the landslide aze located approximately 350 feet south of the landslide's uppermost cracks. We were informed during this inspection that TMI had contacted Tri-State to inform them of the proximity of the slide's head scarp to the power line. We documented the condition of downstream sedimentation ponds, and were informed by TMI personnel of damage to a mine generator situated west of the G dip-line pit. We were additionally informed that a US Mine Safety and Health Administration official had issued a 103(k) order to TMI on Sunday October 8, 2006 that prohibits re-entry into the Gdip-line pit until MSHA grants re-entry approval. A copy of our inspection report pertaining to this on-the-ground inspection is enclosed. Coal Program staff additionally conducted an aerial inspection of the Trapper Mine on Friday, October 13, 2006. We obtained 38 photographs during this inspection, which we have downloaded onto a CD at your request. The aerial inspection allowed us to further define the appazent limits of the slide, and to better document those azeas approved and not approved for disturbance at the time of the landslide. A copy of our inspection report for this inspection is also enclosed. In conjunction with our investigation, we have obtained Yampa River hydrograph information from the US Geological Survey, and have used Google Earth in documenting pre-slide topography. We have obtained a copy of an inspection report from the US Bureau of Land Management who inspected the landslide the morning of October 10, 2006, and have obtained a copy of the MSHA 103(k) order. Coal Program staff conducted a third inspection of the landslide this week. The purpose of this third inspection is to collect additional field data and copies of certain mine site records, and to further define data needs regarding the cause of the landslide and future implications. Our report is forthcoming. We will investigate additional information and records in the near future including, but not limited to, observations by mine employees prior to and during the event, baseline geology and hydrology data, exploration borehole coring and well logging data, slope dewatering well locations and data, slope stability monitoring station locations and data, and blasting records. Some of this information is on file in our offices here in Denver. However, we will also be directing TMI to collect and compile various data and geotechnical analyses to define the cause of the slide. Slide monitoring, stabilization and reclamation measures; and, any needed future mining and reclamation plan changes will also be defined. We will continue conducting our normal I&E inspections, and may conduct additional focused ones as needed. We appreciate your assistance as we proceed with our investigation. More specific direction will be forthcoming. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we may answer questions you may have. Sincerely, c~~~~~9~ Daniel I. Hernandez CDRMS Senior Environmental Protection Specialist