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physical characteristics and water holding capacity for the colluvial deposit are <br />consistent throughout its entire depth. Thus mixing of the material as a result of <br />construction and reclamation would not reduce water-holding capacity. <br />Assuming that 10.9 acres of disturbed land will be retopsoiled, and that there are <br />5,243 cubic yards of stockpiled topsoil and 15,206 cubic yards of subsoil suitable <br />as a plant growth medium, the total soil layer would be 14 inches in depth. This <br />compares favorably with the 13-inch depth which existed prior to disturbance. <br />The water holding capacity of the reclaimed land would be comparable to orchard <br />soils adjacent to the permit area. <br />Summary and Findings <br />The Division has examined the probable hydrologic consequence due to mining <br />operations for groundwater and surface water systems at the Terror Creek Loadout. The <br />mine will take the necessary measures to ensure that mining will not affect the <br />hydrologic regime (2.07.6(2)(c)). <br />IV. Topsoil <br />A. Baseline soils information can be found in Section 2.04.9 of the permit application. Map 3 <br />shows the locations of the soil mapping units. The operator's topsoil salvage and <br />redistribution plan can be found in Section 2.05 of the permit application. Map 8 details the <br />Topsoil Handling Plan and contains the locations of the topsoil stockpiles. <br />Prior to construction of the loadout facility, topsoil was removed and stockpiled. There are <br />two topsoil stockpile locations. A large pile is located on the west side ofthe permit area, and <br />a smaller pile is located on the east side of the permit area, near the county road. <br />The Division has granted a variance from topsoil removal in accordance with Rule <br />4.06.2(2)(a). An area containing less than one acre is being used for open storage of items <br />and materials which will not cause any contamination or degradation of the in-place soils. <br />Traffic in this storage area is light, primarily foot and light truck travel, and of an infrequent <br />nature. To date, existing vegetation has not been harmed and no erosion has occurred, nor is <br />any expected. Therefore, the Division finds that this variance was granted in an appropriate <br />manner and reaffirms that decision. <br />V. Sealing of Drilled Holes and Underground Openings <br />A. There are no drilled holes or underground openings at the Terror Creek Loadout; therefore, <br />this section does not apply. <br />VI. Use of Explosives <br />A. There are no explosives used at the Terror Creek Loadout; therefore, this section does not <br />apply (4.08). <br />VII. Disposal of Excess Spoil <br />A. The Terror Creek Loadout will not require a disposal area for excess spoil; therefore, this <br />section does not apply (4.09). <br />15