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West Elk Mine 2002 Annual Hydrology Report 28 • Since the well casings have collapsed in wells SOM-45-H1 (Sept. 2002), SOM-2-H (Jul. 1999), SOM-16-H (Sep. 2000), 96-27-1 (Apr. 2002), and SO.W-1 (Jun. 2002) water quality and water level data is not considered accurate and now these wells aze dysfunctional. 7.0 SUMMARY During WY2002, the Project was in regulatory compliance with all hydrologic aspects. Mining operations did not cause any significant impacts to local surface or ground water resources. The continued drought conditions in the azea have resulted in reduced flows in most surface streams and springs. Wells levels have remained constant, however wells that are above active longwall mining sometimes show lower water levels, but these water levels typically recover after mining in the area has stopped. Casings of some wells (SOM-2H and SOM-16H) have collapsed due the mine-induced subsidence, but these effects have been limited. The Project's current monitoring program is adequate with the exception of flow measurements at the Upper and Lower Deep Creek stations and wells SOM-2H and SOM-16H. The Deep Creek stations need to have a direct means of measuring flow other than a rating curve for the general channel geometry. Direct flow could be measured using a permanent or portable flume or similar • devices. The continuous flow measurement instruments (pressure transducers and data loggers) would need to be recalibrated to the specific flow measurement device. It has been recommended that MCC complete the Deep Creek work in the summer of 2003. In addition, wells SOM-2H and SOM-16H are inoperable and should be taken out of the monitoring program. HydroGeo collected the hydrological data in WY2002. Watec, Inc. collected all pre-WY2002 data. HydroGeo compiled the data, completed the interpretations and prepared the report. R * X R • Project # 00301 HydroGeo, Inc.