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• J. Stream Buffer Zones The Division proposes to approve surface or underground mining activities within 100 feet of a stream with a biological community. Specifics are outlined in Section 4.05.18 of their permit. This decision is based on a finding that the original stream channel will be restored, water quality and quantity shall not be adversely affected, and appropriate riparian vegetation will be reestablished. The buffer zone variance is granted for the area located along the North Fork of the Gunnison River (4.05.18(111. K. Probable Hydrologic Consequences 1 . Effects of Mining on the Hydrologic System No significant impacts to the surface or ground water systems in the study area are expected to result from mining activities at the Bear Mine. The small size of the Bear underground workings and surface facilities will limit the extent of mining impacts on the hydrologic system. Mining activities at the Bear Mine may impact the hydrologic system of the study area by: • a. Depleting springs in, and adjacent to, the permit area; b. Depleting the quantity of ground water present in the C coal seam and adjacent strata; c. Degrading the water quality in the alluvial aquifer below the Bear No. 3 facilities area; d. Degrading the water quality of the North Fork of the Gunnison River; and e. Depleting the quantity of water available in the North Fork of the Gunnison River. The first three points are discussed in the ground water section, and the remaining points are discussed in the surface water section. 2. Ground Water Effects Springs in, or adjacent to, the Bear permit area are not expected to be affected by mining at the Bear Mine. A spring survey conducted at the Bear Mine located three springs in the permit area. No perennial springs exist on the property. A spring survey conducted by MCC has located several seasonal and perennial seeps in the adjacent area. • 18