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underground mining activities. As projected, these impacts are localized and will most <br />probably continue in the proximity of the mined area. <br />As projected, subsidence in Red Wash initially resulted in water ponding in the stream <br />bottom. The high content of silt and clay carried by Red Wash rapidly filled the ponds. The <br />silt and clay layers have sealed any cracks that formed in the alluvium as the result of <br />subsidence. Water continues to flow in the surface channel in Red Wash. <br />3.3 Significance of Impacts to Use of Water <br />The current rate of withdrawal of water the White River is well below that projected at full <br />production. Based on the current level of production and the cureent rate of withdrawal, <br />BME is not likely to exceed the projected withdrawal rates even at higher production levels. <br />3.4 Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures <br />Mitigation measures at the Deserado Mine primarily include impoundment structures to <br />control runoff from surface sites and coal refuse piles. These structures have worked well <br />for containing and treating runoff as no out of compliance discharges from these <br />impoundments have occurred. Reclamation of areas disturbed during construction and <br />management practices are effective in controlling both erosion and suspended solids during <br />runoff events. Sediment control structures such as berms, ponds and sediment fences are <br />used to control runoff from disturbed areas until they are revegetated and stabilized. <br />3.5 Changes Necessary to Minimize Impacts <br />Based on the success of mitigation measures to date and the impacts so far observed, no <br />changes in mining operations or procedures are warranted. <br />14 <br />