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Drainage from disturbed areas can contribute additional suspended <br />solids to offsite stream systems; however, the above-referenced <br />sediment control systems will effectively control sediment yield to <br />offsite areas. Other applicable effluent limitations will also be <br />met, as required by the NPDES permit. There is no evidence of <br />acid-forming or toxic-producing materials. <br />The operation will result in slightly increased total dissolved <br />solids levels in the North Fork of the Gunnison River. The sources <br />are the discharge from the underground workings of the Sanborn <br />Creek Tracts, and drainage from waste piles located at the site. <br />The previously documented discharges from the Somerset Fline no <br />longer exist since mining and mine dewatering activities have <br />ceased and the old portals have been permanently sealed. Specific <br />anticipated water quality impacts are discussed within the <br />Cumulative Hydrologic Impact Study for the North Fork of the <br />Gunnison River. It has been found that the Somerset Mine <br />operation, including the Sanborn Creek addition, will not cause <br />significant salinity increase in the North Fork of the Gunnison <br />Rive r. <br />The mine will not adversely impact flooding processes or <br />streamflows in the North Fork of the Gunnison River. Mining <br />operations are not expected to decrease flows in any of the <br />ephemeral or intermittent drainages to be undermined. The <br />operation will not adversely impact downstream water users. <br />The operator will use about 35,000 gallons per day for underground <br />and above-ground dust suppression. This water will be drawn from <br />an existing surface water right of 7.8 cfs, on the North Fork of <br />the Gunnison River. More detailed information is available in the <br />CHIS for the North Fork of the Gunnison River. <br />IV. Topsoil <br />The Division has determined that selected overburden materials may <br />be used for, or as a supplement to, topsoil. The resulting soil <br />should be equal to or better than tiie available fill material. <br />This determination will be based on physical and chemical analyses <br />and field-site trials approved by the Division (4.06.2(4)(a)). <br />Somerset Mining Company has agreed to remove and/or bury coal and <br />coaly material on the pre-law Elk Creek yard area. Since topsoil <br />is not available, the resulting surface material will be tested to <br />determine if it is suitable as plant growth medium. If it is not, <br />it will be covered by at least six inches of suitable plant growth <br />medium or topsoil salvaged from development of the present coal <br />mine waste pile area or the Sanborn Creek facilities areas. The <br />areas stripped of topsoil for emplacement of the Sanborn Creek <br />facilities will be regraded following mining, tested and treated <br />with topsoil in a similar fashion. All stockpiled topsoil will be <br />used in reclamation. None will be left stockpiled upon final <br />reclamation. The topsoil stockpiled at the upper Hubbard Creek <br />area will be used to partially cover pre-law waste piles that exist <br />at the lower Hubbard Creek area. The upper Hubbard Creek bench <br />will be retained as an approved USFS parking lot. <br />_l g_ <br />