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Because of the physical distance between the reclaimed mine site and the nearest perennial stream, the quality of water in that stream, the limited use of water from that stream, and the fact that the mine site was reclaimed three years ago and appears stable, no adverse impacts on surface water quantity or quality are predicted to occur due to the reclamation of the Fruita Mine. Ground Water The mine workings at the reclaimed Fruita Mine site were driven into the Cameo and Anchor coal seams, which are found in the Mount Garfield formation within the Mesaverde Group. The Mesaverde Group is underlain by the Mancos shale formation which forms a major portion of the floor of the Grand Valley. During exploration and mine development by Dorchester Coal Co., 22 holes were drilled in the vicinity of the Fruita Mine. No significant ground water was encountered in either the Cameo or Anchor coal seams or their overburden. There is no record of any significant amount of water being encountered by the mine workings when they were developed. Water in the Cameo coal seam is only known to occur in isolated areas. The first significant aquifers below the Cameo and Anchor coal seams are hydrologically isolated from the mine workings by the Mancos shale which underlies the Mesaverde Group. The portals at the Fruita Mines were backfilled and sealed in accordance with MSHA standards in 1989. The area in front of the portals was backfilled, graded and revegetated at that time, as well. No evidence of any mine water has been observed since the site was reclaimed. No new mining will be allowed under the reclamation only permit being proposed at this time. Therefore, impacts on ground water quantity or quality due to the reclaimed Fruita Mine site are not predicted to occur. Conclusion Pursuant to Rule 2.07.6(2>(c> and based on the discussion above, the Division finds that the reclamation operations proposed under the Fruita Mine application have been designed to prevent damage to the hydrologic balance outside the permit area. III. Topsoil Since much of the site was disturbed prior to the enactment of CSCMRA, little topsoil was salvaged. The topsoil that was salvaged has been redistributed to a depth of approximately four inches over the reclaimed area. IV. Sealing of Drilled Holes and Underground Openings Both portals have been sealed and backfilled according to MSHA requirements. 2. The Division will require that each hole, well or other underground opening be capped, sealed, backfilled, or otherwise property managed (4.07.3). _lr_