2009-05-19_REVISION - M1978039HR (32)

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• Z The degree to which the proposed action and alternatives affect public health or safety. There is already an existing mine in operation at the site. No public health issues associated with that mine were identified during the course of our analysis. This expansion is an action that is typical of mining operations. Although some broad public health and safety concerns were raised during the public comment period, Denison's operations must be in compliance with all applicable Federal and State regulations for the health and safety of mine workers, and the general public. I see no compelling reason to not accept compliance with all applicable Federal and State standards and agencies as adequately protective of public health. Compliance will include, but not be limited to, agencies and standards such as: the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants, the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the Ambient Air Quality Standards, and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Related to traffic and access, Denison will continue to work with San Miguel County and the Colorado Department of Transportation. 3. Unique characteristics of the geographic area. There are no unique characteristics present in the area of the proposed action, which is a relatively small expansion of an existing and operating mine. The vegetation, wildlife, and landforms present in the analysis area are typical of the area. Section 8.2.1 of the EA • does discuss the proximity of the Sunday Mines Complex to the proposed Big Gypsum Valley Area of Critical Environmental Concern. However, it was concluded that the proposal would not affect the proposed ACEC. There are no prime and unique farmlands, wild and scenic rivers, ACEC's, wilderness or wilderness study areas, wetlands, riparian areas or floodplains affected by the proposal. 4. The degree to which the effects on the human environment are likely to be highly controversial. During the comment period on the Plan of Operations (POO) for the proposed action, and the preliminary Environmental Assessment there were no substantial concerns that were raised within the scientific community about the effects of the proposed action that would indicate that the effects of the proposed action are likely to be highly controversial. 5. The degree to which the possible effects on the human environment are highly uncertain or involve unique or unknown risks. The effects of the proposed action on the human environment are not highly uncertain, nor do they involve unique or unknown risks. Mining is a routine activity, consistent with established uses of the land, and its effects on the human environment have been studied for decades. • Sunday Mines Expansion -3- Dolores Public Lands Office Finding of No Significant Impact January 30, 2009