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these same units (Snowmass Coal-CMLRD Permit Application, 1982) and support this flow direction. This flow direction will be confirmed in the permit area by wells drilled from within the mine. The similarity in water quality between the Rollins sandstone and Wheeler coal (Figure 3.3-12 and Appendix 3.3-6) suggests that these units may be partially connected through fractures. Since the Wheeler gradient is most likely to the south, the Rollins gradient is most likely very similar. • • With potentiometric heads of 6040 and 6080 feet, for the Rollins sandstone and Wheeler coal, respectively, discharge to the north would be expected where the elevation of the surface outcrop traces are below these elevations. This situation occurs west of hole SK-3H (Figure 3.3-6), but surface discharge has not been identified in these areas. Any ground water which potentially discharges along this portion of the outcrops may be evapotranspired and/or discharged directly into the colluvium and is never seen as free surface water. Due to the low permeability of these units, only small amounts of water would be expected to discharge along this stretch. Another possible source of discharge may be as steam in the coal burn areas. Steam has been observed along the Wheeler burns and may explain why liquid water is not seen at the surface in an area below the observed water surface elevation, Water pressure data collected from SK-3H suggests that this is a recharge area for the Wheeler and Rollins, and probably the Upper and Middle sandstones. Pressures are consistently higher in the Wheeler than in the deeper Rollins, suggesting downward movement. Also, the water-quality of these units is quite good compared to many water-bearing carbonaceous and coal lithologies. The low overall total dissolved solids may be due to relatively short contact time with the rocks, as would be expected in a recharge area. NCSC - Coal Ridge #1 3-31 7-BC/1145/900301