2009-03-03_REPORT - C1982056 (2)

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Downstream of 006-AZ-3 are relatively new alluvial wells, AVF-13, AVF-14, and AVF-15. Data for sites AVF- 13, AVF-14, and AVF-15 are provided in Tables 29, 30, and 31, respectively. Figures 38 through 43 provide graphical representations of water levels and selected water quality parameters recorded at each new site. Note that localized mining subsidence along Fish Creek occurred in the area of well AVF-15 during the summer of 2004. The creek bed has subsequently re-established it's flow path. Well 008-AU-3 and surface water site 305 monitor water levels upstream from the Fish Creek Tipple area with data presented on Figure 44. The furthest downgradient Fish Creek alluvial monitoring well is 008-AW-3 (Figure 46) located near the Fish Creek Tipple. No unusual water level fluctuations were noted at any of these sites during 2008. Similarly, conductivity values for these two sites were within historical ranges. Trout Creek Alluvial Groundwater: There are two Trout Creek alluvial monitoring wells, 008-AT-1., and a privately owned well (Jones well). Figures 48 through 51 provide graphical representations of water level and field conductivity information to date. Tables 27 and 28 provide data for these wells. Note that use of the Jones well was replaced by importing water to two underground storage tanks. This is discussed in greater detain under section 3.7. Well 008-AT-1 is monitored in conjunction with surface water site 1005. Figure 48 depicts the water level relationship between these two sites. Monitoring was initiated on Trout Creek Alluvial wells back in 1994. Middle Creek Alluvial Groundwater: TCC has no active Middle creek alluvial wells. Two Middle Creek alluvial wells (AVM-1 and AVM-2) were incorporated into the monitoring network during 1996, however, per TR03-42, these wells were abandoned in the Fall of 2003. Refer to previous AHRs for earlier data. 3.21 Points of Compliance Rule 4.05.13(1)(b) requires formal establishment of ground water points of compliance for coal operation which has the potential for negatively impacting the quality of ground water for which quality standards have been established by the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission. The Commision's Rule 41 sets forth Basic Standards for ground Water. These Standards are applicable to ground water at the Foidel Creek Mine. In the judgment of DRMS, these Standards are applicable to ground water at the Foidel Creek Mine, however it is also the judgment of DRMS, the Foidel Creek Mine does not have the potential to negatively impact bedrock aquifers due to the nature of the geology (i.e. synclinal basin) found at the mine's location. Wells 008-AV-2 (Foidel Creek alluvium), 008-AU-3 (Fish Creek alluvium), and well 008-AT-1 (Trout Creek alluvium) will be established to satisfy alluvial ground water points of compliance. 3.3 Surface Water MonitorinII Monitoring/Sampling Requirements: Table 32 presents a summary of surface water monitoring frequencies, which was last updated for Permit Revision 6 (PR 03-06 Exhibits 14-7 through 14-10) in March of 2004. Site 9