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~~ <br />g, PROBABLE WATER QUALITY IMPACTS <br />Significant changes in the quality of surface water, primarily <br />Raton Creek, are not expected as a result of mining activities. <br />Decreased water quality should not occur from mine dewatering. <br />First, the mine is expected to produce very little water based on <br />the experience in other mines in this area. If waters are produced <br />along the coal seams in the mine, it is likely they will contain <br />elevated concentrations of sulfate, manganese, calcium, magnesium, <br />iron and aluminum. However, the anticipated flow rate is very low, <br />as evidenced by the low yield springs and wells in the same formation. <br />Second, the base flow in Raton Creek is already supplied by water of <br />the three formations which might contribute to any mine drainage. <br />No mitigation measures such as treatment or storage should be <br />~,~ necessary unless large quantities of water are produced at the mine <br />wall faces. The duration of any impact would be only during the <br />period of active mining. <br />One of the problems associated with coal mining can be acid <br />mine drainage. This occurs when pyrite contained in and around <br />the coal material is oxidized to produce sulfuric acid. This acid <br />then causes dissolution of other elements which are potential <br />polutants. This section addresses the potential for acid mine <br />drainage t0 OCCllr dt the Rnton Crcck No:? Minc <br />In order to assess the impact of the spoil material on the <br />environment, EP toxicity tests were performed on roof, floor, coal <br />partings and the coal itself. Results of these analyses are given <br />in the Geology section of this report. <br /> <br />576 <br />FISHER; HANOEN 8 FISHER <br />Revise) S/9S <br />