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Jul 20 01 11:53a PROMIR RRtiGER DISTRICT 970-527-4151 p.6 <br />• <br />V[I. FINDINGS REQUIRED BY OTHER LAWS <br />Flood plains, wetlands, prune farm lands, threatened and endangered species, and <br />heritage resource concerns were considered in this action. These resources wilt not be <br />adversely affected. <br />VIII. DECISION AND REASON FOR DECISION <br />After reviewing the existing NEPA documeutation, evaluating the issues raised, <br />considering chazacter of this proposal, the imminent danger to the health and safety to <br />mine personnel, and responsibility to develop a federal coal tease, it is my decision to <br />approve the proposed activities. This decision is specifically for the following activities: <br />1. Conshucting and utilizing drill pad 14-05. <br />It must be noted that this decision only allows the proposed activities on these previously <br />used lands. Use of the surface lands must comply with the stipulations found on the <br />existing coal leases (included as Attachments A). My decision is further conditioned on <br />the Conditions of Approval included as Attachment B. These terms of approval aze <br />b<csed on conditions required of drilling operations on [he National Forest, and other <br />• mitigation measures deemed necessary for the protection of resources. The leasing of <br />COC-56447 allows for additional conditions of approval to be developed at the time <br />surface activities aze proposed. <br />MCC has attempted to use other means to adequately ventilate the methane gas from the <br />underground mine workings, including horizontal drill holes into the gob, and rerouting <br />airflows. According to MSHA, the mine has had limited success with these other <br />methods, and currently the best technology for ventilating methane from the workings is <br />by use of GVBs from the surface. <br />IX. INIPLEMENTATION DATE <br />This decision maybe implemented immediately. MCC will be authorized to proceed <br />with a letter from the Paonia District Ranger. <br />X. CONTACT PERSON <br />Questions may be directed to Susan Speaz, Paonia Ranger District, P.O. Box 1030, <br />Paonia, CO 81428, (970)-527-4131; electronic mail ssncar(c~fs.fed.rts. <br />XI. APPEAL OPPORTUNITIES <br />In accordance with 36 CFR 215.8(a)(4), this decision is not appealable. <br />• <br />