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With the submittal of PR-01, SCC further evaluated the probable hydrologic <br /> consequences of proposed Yoast mining operations in the Sage Creek <br /> watershed. This evaluation occurred prior to any mine related disturbance in <br /> that watershed. <br /> Based on SCC's evaluation, the Division finds that although SCC has <br /> predicted that salinity levels in Sage Creek may exceed the Division's <br /> conductivity threshold of 1.0 mmho/cm, the effects to ranching/agricultural <br /> operations along Sage Creek are deemed to be insignificant. The Division <br /> finds that the proposed coal mining operation would not interrupt, <br /> discontinue, or preclude farming on the potential alluvial valley floors that <br /> have been identified along Sage Creek, downstream from the proposed <br /> mining operation. The Division's findings in regard to impacts to alluvial <br /> valley floors are presented in Section B,X of this document. <br /> SCC projected electrical conductivity values for Sage Creek in excess of the <br /> suspect level for material damage in the original Yoast application. SCC <br /> presented analyses of impacts of elevated conductivity levels in terms of <br /> material damage in PR-01. The Division agrees with SCC's analyses and <br /> finds that the Yoast permit application package now complies with Rule <br /> 2.07.6(2)(c)&(k) which were the subject of Stipulation No. 7. The Division <br /> also finds that the permit application package now complies with Rule <br /> 2.06.8(4) which was the subject of Stipulation No. 9. Therefore, Stipulation <br /> Number 7 & 9have been complied with and removed. <br /> N. Topsoil <br /> Baseline soils information is found in Tab 9 of the permit application package. Mine <br /> soil reconstruction is discussed in Tab 21. <br /> All available, suitable topsoil will be salvaged from areas to be disturbed by mining <br /> and either stored in a stockpile or immediately redistributed on regraded areas. Eight <br /> topsoil stockpiles are proposed for the first five-year permit term. The.stockpiles will <br /> be seeded following construction, to protect the topsoil from erosion, and marked <br /> with identification signs. Topsoil will not be salvaged from approximately 69 of the <br /> 912 affected acres at the Yoast Mine. Topsoil will not be salvaged from these areas <br /> because, 1.) steep slopes make salvage operations unsafe, 2.) rock outcrops or <br /> unsuitably high clay content preclude use of the material, and/or 3.) the area has been <br /> disturbed prior to mining or is under water. <br /> Soil salvage operations will be monitored by Seneca Coal Company in the field to <br /> verify removal of all available topsoil. Replaced topsoil thickness will be verified <br /> by sampling reclaimed areas prior to seeding with at least one hole per five acres. <br /> Yoast Mine 29 October 19, 1999 <br />