2009-03-03_REPORT - C1982056 (2)

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locations are shown on Figure 2 (a.k.a. Map 13A), Hydrologic Monitoring Plan of TR03-42 (as well as in Figure 2 of this AHR). Table A of Exhibit 14 specifies three seasonal monitoring episodes (i.e. October to February, March to May, and June to September), each of which are further divided into two general categories of sampling frequency: 1) "Regular" monitoring that is done continuously, and 2) "Contingent" monitoring that is conducted only when there is a discharge from underground mine pumping at surface discharge sites 109 and/or 115. Note that discharge from site 109 has not occurred in several years, and is not anticipated in the near future. 2008 surface water data is provided in Tables 33 through 49. Water quality parameters for these sites were typically within previously established ranges, unless otherwise discussed below. An historical summary of data has been provided in Tables 35a through 5la. Stream Gaging As noted in several tables and figures, monitoring stream sites can be difficult clue to continual damage of gage stations by cows, horses and other weathering effects. Many stations require repair on a regular basis. In addition, natural changes (i.e. erosion) in stream channels have impacted flow conversions. In the summer of 2007, TCC hired consultants (Rivers Unlimited, Inc. of Steamboat Springs, and Norwest Applied Hydrology of Denver) to assist with re-evaluating key stream bed locations, including rating curves for ongoing stream gauging. This on-going study will continue into the spring summer and fall of 2009. A discussion of the results will be included in the 2009 AHR. In 2008 the consultants assisted with the temporary repair of some gage stations. In 2009, TCC with their assistance will be upgrading many of these stations to better withstand damage. Flow meters may also be added at key locations. Foidel Creek: Four surface flow monitoring sites on Foidel Creek (in the vicinity of the TCC mine portals and facilities areas) are utilized. Site 800 and site 14 are located upstream of the portal. Site 8 is located a short distance downstream of the portal area and is monitored in conjunction with alluvial well 001-5-5. Site 900 is located further downstream on Foidel above the confluence with Middle Creel:. Former site 304 was located further downstream of 900. Site 304 was eliminated in 2003 per TR03-42. Tables 33 through 36 provide summaries of the 2008 Water Year data collected at each site. Tables 33a, 34a, and 35a provide POR statistical summaries of collected data at each site. Figures 52 to 59 and 102 to 105 provide graphical representations of water levels and selected water quality parameters recorded at each site. Typical flow patterns were exhibited at these sites with spring runoff periods accounting For the peak flows observed. At all of these sites, the inverse relationship between flow and field conductivity continues to be evident. Water quality parameters for these sites were within previously established ranges. Fish Creek: Nine surface flow monitoring sites are utilized on Fish Creek. Site 16A replaced site 16 in 2000, and is located upstream of the Fish Creek Borehole discharge site 115. Historical data for site 16 may be found in previous AHRs. Site 307 is located approximately one mile downstream of the Fish Creek Borehole mine dewatering site and is monitored in conjunction with alluvial well 006-AZ-3. Site 302 is located approximately two miles downstream of the Fish Creek Borehole mine dewatering site. Site 305 is located upstream of the Fish Creek Tipple and is monitored in conjunction with alluvial well 008-AU-3. Site 27A is located immediately 10