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07/21/03 15:48 FAX 870 325 7333 THMtkM F~j015 <br />bedrock in a pule long, north south strip will diminish or eliminate flows to the Nation's <br />water rights, probably dry up the Metcalf Pond, and diminish rechazge flows back to <br />Mexican Gulch. In addition, it will cut off natural precipitation which would recharge <br />these water rights, and would create a very large "gravel well", a groundwater sink in this <br />section of the Mesa. <br />In our opinion, it is extremely unlikely that this grave[ pit would be a dry operation 6-9 <br />months of the year. No data has been presented which monitors the groundwater during <br />and after irrigation season, therefore no conclusion can be made as to how high the water <br />[able rises iii the area. Appropriation of groundwater by a well requires a permit, <br />augmentation of consumptive use, and augmentation water cannot be stored in a well. <br />Additionally, the reclamation plan indicates the pit will be reclaimed by spreading 6 <br />inches of the topsoil material and turning the entire sub gradient pit into "pasture land". <br />We find this tughly unlikely in that, until such time as a!1 irrigation east and west of the <br />pit is terrttinated and ditches are piped or lined, groundwater flows will continue to <br />accumulate in the pit, creating more of a marshland or wetland as opposed to pastureland <br />or usable cropland. <br />We hope this brieF memo provides you guidance in the short time frame available. We <br />will be happy to discuss this memo in detail prior to the June 26 hearing. Should you feel <br />it would be necessary for us to attend, please contact our office as soon as possible so that <br />we can attempt to adjust our schedule. <br />i <br />t <br />C <br />Cc: Sue McIntosh <br />Attach; Map; Resume' <br />Respectfully, <br />