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,r r <br />Heat transfer, atmospheric movement and the presence of water accumulating near a <br />closed mine entry could trigger a localized combustion event. Evaluation of the ground <br />surface further uphill from the observed vents, possibly from an aircraft during the <br />winter, maybe useful in evaluating whether additional portions ofthe mine aze on fire. <br />Feature 2, the steam vent, is located easterly of the feature 1, 3, 4 alignment. The off set, <br />however, does not discount the significance of this feature. The off set and low <br />temperature of this feature may indicate underground collapse or blockage between the <br />vent location and the fire source. Such a blockage, if it exists, may be beneficial if fire <br />suppression activities are undertaken in the future. <br />People visiting the site should be cautious when approaching the vents and other fire <br />related features located on the upper bench. The pazallel fracturing observed at Feature 4, <br />and the circular nature of the Feature i fracture. pattern suggest some potential for ground <br />instability exists. <br />Based on the mining information provided and the field data collected, it appeazs that this <br />underground fire maybe located within a mine that was active subsequent to enactment <br />of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. If this were the case, the <br />site would not be eligible for funding or remedial work performed by the Inactive Mines <br />Program. Barring information to the contrary, the Inactive Mines Program will not . <br />schedule this site for fire mitigation activities. I am available to assist Coal Regulatory <br />Program personnel if the need arises, however. <br />