2009-07-01_REPORT - C1980007 (6)

Home Browse Search

West Elk Mine 2008 Annual Hydrology Report 39 3.6 Surface Water and Groundwater Monitoring Methodology The surface water monitoring protocols include recording stream flow (gpm) and field water quality (pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and temperature), and collecting water quality samples for independent laboratory analysis. Continuous flow data are measured and collected using Parshall flumes and Global Water pressure transducers, or the USGS published flows. In an effort to modernize the surface water monitoring program, MCC replaced all the old Stevens Type F recorders with Global Water digital data loggers in October 2006 (WY 2007). Instantaneous flow data are measured with a portable flume, a point flow meter, or using the timed volumetric method. Field water quality and lab samples are collected at a non-aerated flowing section of streams with minimum turbidity. Field measurements are taken with a Hydac or Oakton water quality multimeter that has been calibrated with standard buffer solutions. All sampling equipment is rinsed with distilled water and sample water prior to testing and/or sample collection. Water samples for lab analysis are collected in pre-fixed sample bottles provided by the certified laboratory. Sample bottles are sealed, labeled, placed on ice, and shipped to the lab in coolers for analysis according to standardized EPA protocols. Chain-of-custody forms are completed for all is samples sent to the lab for analysis. The independent analytical laboratory used in WY 2008 for all of the surface and groundwater water quality analyses was Envirochem Analytical located in Grand Junction, Colorado. ACZ Laboratories, Inc. in Steamboat Springs, CO analyzed the mine water sample. The spring and seep monitoring program follows the same protocols for recording field water quality parameters (pH, EC, and temperature) and collecting samples for laboratory analysis, as described for the surface water monitoring program above. The flow measurement methodology for springs and seeps, involves digging out the flow channel to facilitate the positioning of a plastic bucket with 1 gallon gradations. Flow is measured using the timed volumetric method. Flow rate is determined by recording the time required to fill a container of known volume. This procedure is repeated several times and an average flow rate is calculated and recorded. The groundwater monitoring program includes recording water level measurements and field water quality parameters (pH, EC, and temperature), and collecting laboratory samples for analysis from designated wells. The static water level in the well is measured to the nearest 0.1-foot, using a Solinst or Heron brand electronic well sounder. Water samples are collected from the groundwater monitoring wells with a point source bailer. A point source bailer is lowered to a selected depth in • the well in order to collect an undisturbed sample from that zone. The monitored wells are not bailed prior to sampling because of their very slow recharge rates. Field water quality parameters June 2009 HydroGeo, Inc.