Laserfiche WebLink
i~ <br />I' underground mining activities. As projected these impacts are localized and will most probably <br />continue in the proximity of the mined area. <br />' As projected, subsidence in Red Wash initially resulted in water ponding in the stream bottom. <br />The high content of silt and clay carried by Red Wash rapidly filled the ponds. The silt and clay <br />' layers have sealed any cracks that formed in the alluvium as the result of subsidence. Water <br />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 from the lagoon in the White River alluvium is well below <br />that projected at full production. Based on the current level of production and the current rate of <br />withdrawal, BME is not likely to exceed the projected withdrawal rates even at higher production <br />levels. <br />3.4 Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures <br />Mitigation measures at the Deserado Mine primarily include impoundment structures to control <br />runoff from surface sites and coal refuse piles. These structures have worked well as no out of <br />compliance discharges of 10-year runoff event and possibly contaminated water from these <br />impoundments have occurred. Reclamation of areas disturbed during construction and <br />operation is effective in controlling both erosion and suspended solids during runoff events. <br />Sediment control structures such as berms, ponds and sediment fences are used to control <br />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 />i4 <br />