_INSPECTION - C1980005 (21) - Laserfiche WebLink

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III. COMMENTS -COMPLIANCE Below are comments on the inspection. The comments include discussion of observations made during the inspection. Comments also describe any enforcement actions taken during the inspection and the facts or evidence supporting the enforcement action. General Comments This was a complete inspection of the Seneca II Mine, including office records check and site inspection of portions of the mine site that could be accessed. Office records were checked on the afternoon of March 25, and the field inspection was conducted the morning of March 26. A significant storm system passed through the area the night of the 25th, with flurries (heavy at times)continuing on the 26th. On the morning of the 26th, there was approximately 8 to 10 inches of new snow in the mine vicinity. The combination of new and old snow cover, and soft ground conditions beneath the snow cover in some areas precluded access to much of the reclaimed mine site. Detailed observations were prevented by the solid snow cover, and periodic snow squalls also limited visibility. The operation appeared to be in compliance with applicable regulatory and permit requirements, to the extent that could be determined, given the very limited access and visibility. Inspector was accompanied by Roy Karo, SCC Reclamation Manager. The mine has been largely reclaimed, with remaining tasks limited primarily to future reclamation of the shop facilities area. Availability of Records Records were checked in the mine office and found to be complete and up to date through the 4th quarter 2008. Roads Haul Road "E"through the shop facilities area up to a short distance beyond Pond 002 has been maintained through the winter and was driven during the inspection. Other permit area roads have not been maintained through the winter, due to the fact that coal extraction has been discontinued, and pit backfilling operations have been completed. Due to deep drifts, the roads that have not been maintained through the winter are not passable by 4wd vehicle. On the morning of March 26, significant fresh snow accumulation covered the entire mine vicinity. Seasonal maintenance of all roads will be warranted as conditions dry out in the coming weeks. Hydrologic Balance Sediment Ponds 002 (Wadge Impoundment)and 003 (Shop Pond)were observed during the inspection. Pond 002 was full and discharging clear flow. Pond 003 appeared to be full and iced over. There was some flow in the shop area perimeter ditch, which appeared to be properly maintained and functional. Photo attached shows Impoundment 002 outflow. The Pecoco impoundment upstream in the Little Grassy Creek watershed, and Sediment Ponds 004 and 008, which discharge into Fish Creek tributaries, were not accessible. Support Facilities The shop facilities area was covered with snow at the time of the inspection, and there was no activity at the site. Drainage and sediment control measures appeared to be properly maintained and functional. 3