2009-03-06_PERMIT FILE - C1981012A (3)

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WFC does not anticipate any additional surface disturbance for • surface facilities during the permit term. In the event additional surface facilities are required, WF'C will submit this information to the Division in the form of a revision. (2) Operation Description The aerial extent of underground workings during this permit term is shown on Map 3, Mine Plan. The mine development entries are currently being driven towards the south and southeast from initial entry point into the Allen Sewn. Following development of the sub-main entries, panels will be mined by longwall mining methods. In addition, roan and pillar sections will be mined where geology, coal thickness, or configuration of the mineable block does not permit removal of coal by other methods. In response to recent Division concerns, pillar extraction has been limited near the highway and Purgatoire River. Continued development and operation of the New Elk Mine on the , present mine plan will require at least one additional 5 year permit term for the anticipated remaining life of the operation. Minor additional surface disturbance may be associated with the continued operation of the mine. This surface disturbance would be required to provide for ventilation and escapeways as development progresses away from the main portal area. These additional surface disturbances will be required only for continued production and safe working operations of the mine. These additional disturbances will be handled as revisions to this permit. Because all surface facilities will be needed throughout the remaining life of the mine, reclamation of these areas will not begin until the mine is closed. In addition, since the New Elk facilities are required for administering and producing a saleable product fray the Golden Eagle Mine, the general schedule of reclamation will be carried out during the last 2 to 3 years of the Golden Eagle Mine's operation. Closing of shafts, 2.05-4 '