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III. SUMMARY OF PAST ACTIVITIES FOR TRACT C-b A. Pre-exploration Phase Surveys Pre-exploration reconnaissance investigations encompassing plant ecology, animal ecology, aquatic ecology and archaeology were done prior to the initiation of any disturbance on the Tract, (e.g., road im- provement and core hole drilling). A team of plant, animal and aquatic ecologists, and an archaeologist surveyed each site to be disturbed in order to (1) determine what species are present, and if any of the areas are vital habitat for rare, endangered species; (2) develop a description of the plant communities present on the sites to aid in later rehabilitation; and (3) determine whether the area has any archaeological significance. Several work areas were relocated as a result of the teams' recommenda- tions. B. Drilling/Mining Engineering A series of core holes were drilled on Tract C-b to determine the extent and quality of the oil shale reserves and mining characteristics of the surrounding rock strata. Data are also being collected on the quantity and quality of water present in the rock strata beneath the Tract. This information and data currently being obtained from several large diameter core holes will be utilized to design the underground oil shale mine planned for Tract C-b. C. Environmental Baseline Studies The Environmental Stipulations of the Lease require the C-b Shale Oil Project to collect baseline data for one year, prior to the submittal of a Detailed Development Plan for the C-b Tract. The various programs started between April - November of 1974 include: 1. Water Quality Studies A comprehensive surface and ground water data collection program was initiated. The surface water program consists of thirteen stream gauging stations installed on all drainages flowing onto and off Tract C-b. These stations are measuring water flow, sediment, pH and salinity. Technicians from the U.S.G.S. Water Resources Division also collect water quality samples for more detailed analysis. The ground water program was intimately associated with the exploratory drilling phase of the project. Core holes required for the mining and engineering analyses were completed as ground water observation wells. They were designed for long term monitoring of various subsurface aquifers on the Tract. Additional monitoring wells have been drilled along the stream valleys and gulches and near the proposed mining areas. Water quality samples have been collected and water level and quantity measurements taken during the drilling of each of these wells. -6-